Alpackin’ Up: Canton Garden Club at Patina Farm

By Guest Columnist Jessica Stein

For the final meeting before summer break, a huge turnout of nearly thirty members of Canton Garden Club convened at the wondrous Patina Farm on Virlilia Road at the old East Cameron Plantation. Patina Farm spans 1,300 acres with gorgeous groves of pines and oaks, in addition to the multitudinous animal habitats and garden spaces. A paradise crafted by Beth and Bob Lloyd, the two have woven a love of beauty through caring for nature’s gifts. 

Beth tends alpacas, mini goats, donkeys, chickens, rabbits and a host of game birds. As a result, Patina offers a gift shop full of alpaca fiber crafts and other farm goods. The landscaping contains a wonderland of different species, including a cutting garden and raised vegetable garden.

Before wandering the tempting grounds, members met for business and the annual club plant swap. Six guests joined the group, adding to the festive atmosphere. Nostalgic, we waxed over the awards and considerations the club has won over the last three years, including the Community Service Award from the City of Canton, three different Keep Mississippi Beautiful awards (Circle of Excellence, 2nd Place Affiliate, and 1st Place Civic Award), and two Garden Clubs of Mississippi Awards (Highest Membership Increase and Continuous Supporter since 1936). Club membership has continued to grow in this time along with our mutual enthusiasm for spreading gardens, community and joy through the streets of Canton. 

We feel proud of the visible impact we made this year through multiple events from the square to the outdoor education pavilion. After reflecting, we unanimously elected new officers from proposed nominations. We so loved how faithfully Susan Buttross served as president and look forward to the next two years with Wanda Baldwin. 

While the club may be pausing for the summer, committees are still active, especially the steering committee for Upstairs Downtown, happening this November atop the second stories of Canton Square. The event currently seeks sponsors and volunteers as we hope to add new locations and increase turnout. This evening out not only provides a memorable night to kick off the holiday season, but also helps the Garden Club fundraise for beautification projects around town. We hope to see you there!