OUR HISTORY

In 1969, a contingent of the Westlake Village Newcomers Club formed a special interest group and began meeting at their homes to share their mutual love of gardening. Soon the group obtained membership in California Garden Clubs, Inc. and the National Council of State Garden Clubs, Inc. (presently titled National Garden Clubs, Inc.). The Westlake Village group incorporated as Westlake Village Garden Club, Inc. Their mission was to offer informative community meetings and educational workshops to promote the benefits of gardening.

In the mid-seventies, club members organized a major community service by re-landscaping and beautifying the prominent entrance to the First Neighborhood in Westlake Village at the intersection of Lakeview Canyon Road and Agoura Road. Members planted rose bushes and erected a large flag pole. For more than twenty years, faithful club volunteers maintained this community landmark until city maintenance crews assumed responsibility. Some of the original landscape remains today at Freedom Square along with a rock placed there in the early 70’s in memory of one of the founding members, Dorothy Steiner.

Over the years, the club has continued its spirt of community service and education. The club has donated thousands of dollars in scholarships to deserving students and support for community, horticultural and conservation organizations.

Westlake Village Garden Club produced its first garden tour in 1971 and, with the exception of two years, has sponsored annual garden tours featuring private gardens in Conejo Valley. Our Tour is a celebrated local fundraiser with proceeds that benefit local college scholarships and a multitude of conservation groups.