Beautification-AYJ Park
A.Y. JACKSON PARK
1102 Bridge Street in Manotick
Located on the edge of the Rideau River, this park’s primary focus is on the Group of Seven artist and former resident of Manotick, A.Y. Jackson. It features 7 large stones that came from Algonquin Park surrounding the A.Y. Jackson commemorative stone, to remind us of one of the group’s favourite painting inspirations: northern Ontario and Georgian Bay.
The park is a blend of history and natural interpretation, situated in the heart of Manotick. It offers a scenic view of historic Watson’s Mill with a gazebo that overlooks the river and features the “Artist’s View” of Watson’s Mill. Stroll through this large park, relax on the MHS 90th anniversary commemorative bench, and take the staircase down to the banks of the river.
MHS has been active here since 2004 when we began populating the gardens with lots of native plants and shrubs such as serviceberry trees. You’ll also find yellow black eyed susans, purple phlox and daisies in a rainbow of colour and several lilac shrubs.
Near the Arthur Crescent entrance there is a maple tree that is planted in memory of long-time member Dorothy Clapp. Her mother, Annie, was the founding member of MHS. In the main part of the park there is a maple tree planted in memory of Mary Harris, who volunteered extensively with MHS. In 2020 a Skinny Genes oak tree was planted in memory of Heather Fogo, a wonderful gardener and MHS volunteer, whose family had ties to A.Y. Jackson himself.
A.Y. Jackson Park is worth a visit in all seasons.
Lynn Koroniak is the garden leader at A.Y. Jackson Park. Her top picks include:
- Serviceberry
- Epimedium
- Autumn Crocus
- Pink Turtleheads