Mary Ellen Pendergrast, Anne Topple, and Genia Duchon

Recorded February 3, 2023 Archived February 3, 2023 32:46 minutes
0:00 / 0:00
Id: dda003158

Description

Sisters Mary Ellen Pendergrast (76), Anne Topple (78), and Genia Duchon (70) share a conversation about their parents and the decision to preserve their childhood home as public green space known as Woodlands Garden.

Subject Log / Time Code

Anne (A) explains that her grandfather moved to Decatur in the early 1920s. She says her grandfather cared a lot about recreation in Decatur.
Genia (G) shares her experience of living in Decatur in the 1950s. She says it was a small town where everyone knew each other. G says she grew up romping around in the wood.
Mary Ellen (ME) describes the recreational activities such as biking and roller skating she grew up partaking in.
ME explains what led to the decision to preserve the woods at their home as a public green space.
G clarifies that in 2003 her and her siblings decided to donate the land on which they grew up.
ME, G, and A share how they've enjoyed the green space since the land has been donated. G says she and some of her kids have gotten married at Woodlands. A highlights the friendships she has made and says the volunteers are crucial to the upkeep of the garden. ME speaks about the education programming the garden puts on for children. A discuss the focus the garden has on native plants.
A describes how Decatur has grown over time and Woodlands Garden has served as a sanctuary and refuge for the community.
ME, A, and G say more about their parents and their parents' legacy. They talk about the origin of the name Woodlands.

Participants

  • Mary Ellen Pendergrast
  • Anne Topple
  • Genia Duchon

Recording Locations

Decatur Recreation Center

Venue / Recording Kit

Partnership Type

Fee for Service