The Rotunda at the Maryland State House in Annapolis, is now regaled with 24 trees, decorated to depict the Counties of Maryland.
Governor Larry Hogan requested that the Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland decorate the Rotunda this year, to represent the various counties of the State with historical Christmas Tree decorations depicting each of their chosen themes.
The Chestertown Garden Club was asked to represent Kent County and they decided to use the “Legacy of the Watermen” as their theme. According to the Club, “While we have wonderful history, buildings and the College among so many other things and events, we felt the Watermen represented much that helped to build Kent County and was deserving of our attention and that of the visitors to the State House.”
Over two days, the various Federated Garden Clubs worked in the Rotunda and transformed it into a real festival of trees. The Chestertown Garden Club used all natural pieces for their tree. Polished oyster shells that really sparkled
under the lights, and crab shells that had been steamed to an “Old Bay Red”, were combined with small bouquets of Baby’s breath on a 6’ dark green tree. Topping off the tree was a wooden boat ornament,… perfect! Chester River Crab and Ford’s Seafood
supported the Club with the shells for the ornaments.
Governor and Mrs. Hogan visited each tree and each club during the day, and presented the members of the decorating teams, with ornaments depicting the State House and the year.
The Chestertown Garden Club was represented by Karen O’Connor, Phyllis Roberts, Mackey Dutton, Mary Anne Shea Reynolds and Beryl Kemp. The trees will be in the Rotunda for the remainder of the Season and will be the center of many
events and festivities. “All are invited to visit and well worth the trip”.
Mary Anne Shea Reynolds says
I would like to also thank the Fish Whistle for their contribution of oyster shells for the tree.