It is to be a living exhibit of the beauty and harmony that nature, under skilled cultivation, can make visible to citizens of every age and station.  Its effects begin with such intrinsic values as beautiful display and transformation of formerly derelict land.  They extend, however, to quality-of-life values for all residents of the community, animating sentiments of hope, heightened possibilities and pride.  Frederick Law Olmsted, the pre-eminent parks designer of the early 20th century, stated this pervasive effect succinctly: "From the eye to the spirit."

Our Garden will also be an organic connection to our community's history and distinctive character. 

Agriculture, including the growing and marketing of nursery plants, is a major Clark County enterprise.  The roots of this activity originated in frontier times (hence our name "Spring-field") and extend through the post-Civil War era, when the city achieved prominence as a manufacturer of farm machinery.  Its innovative Champion reapers and other devices produced by various manufacturers earned us the title Champion City.  Botanical enterprises continued into the 20th century, when the area became a leading national producer and shipper of roses.  Hence the added title, Rose City.  Among the growers of that era was the Aukeman family's Hollandia Gardens, after whom our new Garden is named.

Our Garden, then, together with associated displays throughout the community, will embody both an enhanced present for our community and a living reminder of its past.  It will exhibit the best of ourselves for present and future generations and a living reminder of the generations that have come before.  One might well re-phrase the question, "Why here?" to "How can we not have a public botanical garden here in Springfield/Clark County?"