Our History & Legacy
Celebrating 125+ years of horticultural passion in Kingston (est. 1899).
Our 125-Year Story & Victorian Roots
at Kingston City Hall
The Kingston Horticultural Society now known as Gardening Kingston is a venerable institution that has its roots in the mid 19th century. In order to understand the importance of Horticulture in the early decades following Confederation, we must remember that Victorian-era Canada was experiencing rapid growth – industrialization, urbanization and immigration, which created some appalling social conditions. Horticultural Societies, originally formed by the new “middle-classes”, played a very important role in much needed Social Reform, which was necessary to cope with many of the social ills that these changes brought about.
Horticultural Societies in Ontario were given official status by an Act of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario in 1897 which detailed the criteria which had to be met to be considered a society, and thereafter be eligible for an annual grant. In 1906 the individual horticultural societies were united under the umbrella organization – the Ontario Horticultural Association (OHA).
Kingston has had a horticultural society in one form or another since around 1856 – when the first show was held. The official “birthdate” of the current society is 1899, making it one of the oldest in Ontario. One of the original aims of horticultural societies was beautification, and during the early part of the 20th century, Kingston Horticultural Society members were very involved in beautifying the city, planting and maintaining many of the parks, libraries and other municipal properties until the work was taken over by the city administration.
Over the years, KHS members have worked together on many projects, including the establishment and maintenance of a pollinator garden and rock garden, which are open to the public.
The Society’s history is reflected in its newsletter, The Columbine, named after the Society’s flower and officially adopted in 1997. Originally printed and mailed to members, it became an electronic publication in 2020, helping KHS stay connected.
1856 – First Horticultural Show held in Kingston
First recorded Horticultural Show in Kingston, organized by inaugural President Baron de Longueuil (owner of Wolfe Island).
1860 – The Botanical Society of Canada was founded in Kingston
The Society created a garden, which was one of the first botanical gardens in Canada (now defunct), on what is now part of the grounds of Queen?s University.
1897 – Ontario Horticultural Societies Act Passed
Horticultural Societies in Ontario were given official status by an Act of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario in 1897 which detailed the criteria which had to be met to be considered a society, and thereafter be eligible for an annual grant.
1899 – GARDENING KINGSTON’S OFFICIAL BIRTHDATE!
An article appearing in the Daily British Whig dated 23 February 1899, states that Dr. R.T. Walkem announced a re-organization and naming of the Kingston Horticultural Society since the society of the Frontenac District was now defunct. On the evening previous to this article, Dr. Walkem was named the president, G. Nicol became the first vice-president and WH. McNee, the second vice-president. The society was starting out with a membership of about 70 as a result of canvassing by alderman J. Fortescue, who had worked hard to revive the society and was elected secretary. The Constitution and By-laws of the Society stated that the primary object of the Society was encouraging interest and improvement in horticulture.
1910 – 153 members & 1009 Exhibition Entries at the Fall District Fair
Lawn and garden competitions were introduced across Kingston neighborhoods to encourage civic beautification. Awards presented for front yard flower displays and vegetable gardens.
1926 – Civic Beautification
Members submitted trees, shrubs, and plants to the City’s parks department for planting in public spaces. The Society held its first autumn flower show in September 1926 at the Armoury, featuring competition classes for adults, school children, and amateur gardeners.
1940s – Victory Gardens (WWII)
The Society maintained local Victory Gardens during WWII to support war effort food supplies.
The Society was re-incorporated on May 27, 1941. Officially incorporated under the Agricultural Societies Act as the Kingston Horticultural Society.
1967 – Canada Centennial Projects
Marked Canada’s Centenary with civic plantings, including donating crabapple trees planted at the Provincial Courthouse.
1983 – Paterson Memorial Garden
Establishment and dedication of the Paterson Memorial Garden on Norman Rogers Drive in memory of William (Willie) Paterson. Members of the Kingston Horticultural Society have been tending this garden for many years.
2006 – Provincial Recognition
Society was awarded the provincial June Callwood Outstanding Achievement award for volunteerism.
At that time, the 240 members logged a total of 11, 482 volunteer hours on community projects such as Communities in Bloom and the Kingston Lung Association Garden Festival.
2019 – Rebranding to “Gardening Kingston”
Adopted the public operating name Gardening Kingston to connect with modern gardeners, while preserving its legal heritage as the Kingston Horticultural Society.
2010 – Pollinator Garden
The Pollinator Garden at the Memorial Centre was established. Designed and maintained by volunteers to promote native plants and pollinator habitats.
2024 – 125th Anniversary
The Society celebrates its 125th Anniversary of continuous operations (1899-2024). Special anniversary display held at Kingston City Hall showcasing 125 years of civic beautification and horticultural heritage.