Carol's Garden
One year from vision to reality ... an awesome
accomplishment. First Baptist Church's vision of a flower garden to honor the
memory of Carol J. Sallie Baxter is now a reality. The creation of the garden
has been a Madison community effort with donations and contributions coming from
private citizens, corporations, and service companies to create a public garden
on the lawn of First Baptist Church and the Arthur D. Brown Enrichment Center.
Carol's Garden officially opens on Saturday, August 30, 2008, at 2:00 PM. The
opening date is significant because it marks the one-year anniversary of the
passing of Carol Sallie Baxter. Carol was reared in Madison and educated in the
Madison public school system. She was Church Secretary, a member of the Usher
Board, a choir member and Director of the Men's Choir, a Deaconess and one of
the most active members of the church. Carol's life exemplified "A Life of
Service" which is the theme of the Garden. Carol's Garden is opened to the
public for meditation, education and enjoyment. It is an oasis for our older
citizens many of whom live in close proximity. The focal point in the Garden is
the Living Water Falls Fountain, which is surrounded by flowers and benches with
pavers of honor and memory in front of the fountain. The signature "Kip's Tree"
is planted in honor of the late Kip Hale, a Madison native whose life as a
firefighter was dedicated to serving others. Jo's Circle of Love is a circle of
flowers with a statue of St. Francis of Assisi in it's center and surrounded by
stones. This circle honors Deaconess Jo James and symbolizes "Unselfish Caring
for Others". The Garden also includes a bird sanctuary with feeding stations,
nesting boxes, bird bath, a butterfly house and ladybug house; over 50 annuals,
perennials and tree lights; bistro tables with umbrellas, barbecue grills; and
Carol's Deck which can be used for relaxation, games, and social gatherings,
etc.
The community is welcome to stop in for the opening on Saturday, August 30th, at
2:00. Thereafter, feel free to visit the garden for quiet meditation, to read a
book, to visit with a friend or just to enjoy its beauty.