In the early 1900s, station gardens were part of the welcoming gateway to the travelling public, an introduction to the urbanity of the area and the productiveness of the soil. Today, all that remains of what were once colourful station gardens are a few evergreens, a dishevelled hedge of caraganas and lilacs, and a mystery as to why they exist in these peculiar spots.

This book may rekindle some memories of station gardens, introduce yet another chapter to the lives of the West.s first settlers and answer some questions regarding those remaining, seemingly oddly-placed trees and hedges near the main streets of many communities.

Awards:
Finalist. 2008 Saskatchewan Book Awards.

Shirley Harris is a Master Gardener who is interested in heritage gardens and has written extensively about the association of art history and garden design. Recent trips to England and Northern Europe have increased her awareness of the important role gardens have had throughout the development of civilization.

Shirley was born at Kennedy, Saskatchewan,graduated from Luther College in Regina and is a former teacher. She and her husband Gary live in Wolseley, Saskatchewan where they own a forty-acre garden centre consisting of a 1912 guest house, show gardens and arboretum. In the late 1990s they received an environmental award from the Canadian Tree Foundation for the planting of many trees and shrubs on the property, as well as for the maintenance and care of their mature trees. Their passion for plants, art, black and white photography, books and antiques has been brought together in a unique store, Heritage Furnishings, also located in Wolseley. Shirley continues to design gardens and especially enjoys the mature and colourful gardens around her home.

Shirley Harris' profile page