06/17/2026
With the abundance of rainfall we have enjoyed this year, the flowers all around town look absolutely beautiful, bursting with colors that would have made our local history makers proud. It is the perfect backdrop to look back at a group that dedicated over two decades to making our community bloom: the Camp Point Garden Club.
Officially organized on March 6, 1961, the club launched with an impressive 59 charter members. Guided by their founding purpose “Through the growing and sharing of flowers, may we beautify our community, our homes, and our everyday lives"—this incredibly active group left an indelible mark on the town before finally disbanding in 1984.
Sprucing Up the Town
For over two decades, the club was a dynamic force for local beautification. Led by their first officers—including President Mrs. George (Eleanor) McNutt, Vice President Mrs. Everett (Mary) Stabler, Treasurer Mrs. Lyle (Evelyn) Drake, and Historian Mrs. Carrie Smith—the members rolled up their sleeves for the community.
They held regular monthly meetings, rotating between the Community Building, the Methodist Church, and the Community Room. Throughout the years, they hosted competitive local flower shows and poured immense pride into continually beautifying Railroad Park and Bailey Park, transforming ordinary green spaces into vibrant landmarks.
A Snapshot of History
Though the club is no longer active, its archives bring this vibrant era right back to life. The attached photo captures the ladies gathered together, sharing refreshments, and gardening tips at one of their meetings.
Their early ledger features old four-digit phone numbers prefixed with the classic exchange— LY3 Take a look at the attached photo—does anyone recognize any of these women, and how about those old four-digit phone numbers?
By 1984, membership had dwindled to about 30 members, and the group quietly stopped scheduling meetings. While the club itself is gone, the trees they planted and the community spirit they cultivated still root in Camp Point to its rich, agricultural history. Stop by the Heritage Room located in the rear of the Camp Point Camp Point Public Library to see more photos like this and explore Camp Point history!
