10/04/2026
A TRIBUTE TO JULIE SAMUELS.....
Repost
Chicago’s community gardening pioneer, Julie Samuels was celebrated, September 26th, 2026 at the Garfield Park Conservatory. Julie's daughter, Rachel is seen here enjoying the beauty of the Demonstration Garden from Julie's bench was dedicated. Family, friends, and neighbors of Julie along with our network of community gardeners, Chicago Community Gardeners Association (CCGA) members, as well as many Chicagoland gardeners gathered for the dedication of a memorial bench in honor of Julie Samuels for her "Creative, Dynamic Advocacy in Strengthening and Building Community Gardens." The bench is appropriately located on the south end of Demonstration Garden. Thoughtful remembrances were spoken lovingly as many shared their personal gratitude for all Julie and Bruce did to advance Community through gardening. Personal, All were very grateful for her passion, spark and knowledge that she joyfully shared with any and everyone. Look for the bench next time you are at the Garfield Park Conservatory. Scroll to see photos and personal tribute from HERMITAGE COMMUNITY GARDEN.
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🙏 The Community Garden that GREW a community! 🙏
In Englewood, Julie Samuels saw one woman's small idea grow into a blooming symbol of community and sustainability. It began with a gardening project in Cordia Pugh's home backyard to a community garden a few blocks away, the Hermitage Community Garden. JULIE ADVOCATED WITH OPENLANDS & GROWING HOME TO USE 3 VACANT LOTS AT 5643-55 S HERMITAGE STREET TO START THE HERMITAGE COMMUNITY GARDEN!🫶
The result of Julie's advocacy for the land and her spearheading the garden club formation of GREATER ENGLEWOOD GARDEN ASSOCIATION (GEGA) the community garden thrived. Tomatoes, Okra, and greens filled the raised beds faster than expected. The garden demonstrated that food doesn’t need to travel far when soil, perservence and community are available locally!
The Hermitage Community Garden through Julie's efforts demonstrates that a BIG impact can start with small beginnings. In a food desert area where fast food overshadows community connection, this garden turned food GROWING into building community—one raised bed at a time!
Cordia Pugh
Founder & Director
Hermitage Community Garden
5643-55 S. Hermitage st, Chicago, IL 60636
Tel: (773) 245-3017
Email: [email protected]
