May 2, 2007
Lee Memorial Park: History and restoration
Monday’s RTD covers Petersburg Garden Club’s efforts to restore Lee Memorial Park’s wildflower garden, the result of the only Depression-era work relief conservation program completed by single female heads of households. For detailed history of the park, read Lee Memorial Park’s registration form (1.78MB) with the National Register of Historic Places.
Over 200 watercolors of Lee Park’s botanical specimens were made by Bessie Niemeyer Marshall. Over half a century later, this collection†was reproduced in a book entitled “With Paintbrush & Shovel.”
The Virginian-Pilot notes that 80 of the original watercolors will be on display through July 29 at Portsmouth Courthouse Galleries.