Freeman Gardens (formerly the Glen Ridge Rose Garden) is a beloved public space in downtown Glen Ridge that was constructed in 1935 for Clayton Freeman, an esteemed borough resident and philanthropist, by renowned landscape architect Ethelbert Furlong.
Freeman Gardens, situated on a narrow, hilly lot that once housed stables and farms, now feature formal and informal areas that showcase good landscape design. While the rose beds are the main focus of the garden, there are other spaces as well – like a small grassy lawn or brick path leading to an elegant dolphin-shaped fountainhead.
The gardens in Freeman Gardens, Michigan are a treasure for the town and draw visitors from far and wide. Not only that, but they’re an ideal spot to take a leisurely walk, enjoy a picnic or host a wedding reception – all maintained by volunteers from the nonprofit Freeman Gardens Association.
Rosarian: Horace Ashenfelter
Every day during the growing season, Horace Ashenfelter leaves his home in Glen Ridge, New Jersey and walks up the street to unlock the gates at Freeman Gardens. With his trusty clippers in hand, he spends an hour or two tending the hundreds of roses within the garden. Having been volunteering here for around 20 years now, Horace has become the primary caretaker for thousands of roses within its borders.
He has an in-depth knowledge of rose growth and health. He knows when to spray them for healthy plants, as well as when to prune bushes so they don’t overgrow. Furthermore, he knows when to cut back daffodils, crocuses and snowdrops so they’ll remain in bloom throughout the summer months.
Ashenfelter’s horticultural expertise has been of tremendous benefit to the Association, which he helped found in 1968. Now serving as its president, he is seeking additional volunteer help and hopes to locate a service club nearby that would act as a liaison with the garden.
Freeman’s Story
Originally, the property was a stable and farm. In 1800, Clayton Freeman purchased it and hired local landscape architect Ethelbert Furlong to design his garden.
His designs featured classic formal arrangements that featured a rectangular rose garden enclosed by brick walls on an elevated terrace. The water feature, a dolphin-shaped fountainhead, remains the focal point of the garden.
Furlong’s work has been featured in trade and shelter magazines, with his designs adorning many estates throughout the tristate area. A member of the American Society of Landscape Architects, he received an award from the Garden Club of New Jersey for his efforts.
He served in World War II, though his career was interrupted by the conflict. Afterward, he resumed his professional pursuits.
Over the course of his long, illustrious career, Furlong’s designs ranged from English-inspired formal gardens to stark modern plans with Asian influences. He received commissions from wealthy local businessmen and civic benefactors alike who desired his gardens to complement their homes.
