In May 1913, in the small farming community of Ambler, Pennsylvania, 300 women, led by Louisa King of Alma, Michigan, discussed plans to “promote horticultural and agricultural interests throughout the country between women bound by this common interest.” Organized in January 1914, the Women’s National Agricultural and Horticultural Association elected Mrs. King its first president. Renamed Woman’s National Farm & Garden Association, to emphasize the individual responsibility of each member, the association was formally incorporated in October 1919.

Explore the fascinating history of WNFG&A, and the fabulous women who’ve contributed to its growth.

The Ann Arbor Branch came into existence in the fall of 1946, when Mildred Matthaei and her newly formed Horticultural Committee agreed to join fortunes with the national group and its Michigan Division. The Ann Arbor Branch was formally accepted into WNF&GA membership on September 25, 1947.

The purposes of the Ann Arbor Branch are to:

• Encourage interest in and knowledge of horticulture and its allied pursuits among women on local, state, national and international levels;

•  Preserve and beautify the environment by granting scholarships and fellowships to increase interest to this end through education;

•  Engender informed awareness of and participation in community projects;

•  Distribute charitable gifts; and

•  Provide opportunities for learning about horticultural and environmental activities and issues.

The Branch held its first Greens Market in December 1947 and its first Garden Walk in 1991. Through events and notecard sales, we raise about $25,000 annually for scholarships and community projects.

In addition to philanthropic work, the Ann Arbor Branch has a dedicated Horticultural Therapy committee, who work year-round with seriously ill children at U-M’s Mott Children’s Hospital. We are proud to be one of the longest-serving volunteer groups at Mott. Learn more about our “Flower Ladies” here. 

Our small, all-volunteer non-profit organization of about 130 members manages, year after year, to raise a significant amount of money for local garden-related projects and student scholarships and internships. Since 1947, Ann Arbor Farm & Garden has distributed more than $450,000 in charitable gifts.

Along with our good works, Ann Arbor Farm & Garden is valued for the lifelong friendships that form while working side-by-side with accomplished, creative, talented women toward a common goal. We are a sociable group, and organize a variety of events throughout the year that enable members to meet and talk informally. 

Every member contributes, in ways both large and small, and it is that commitment and dedication that allow us to successfully uphold the traditions and mission of the Woman’s National Farm & Garden Association.