Most of our memories of “how it all started” came from our oldest and most beloved member, Lorraine Land, who passed away in 2007 at the wonderful age of 94. As Lorraine told it, it started in 1961 when a small group of women and men, saw a need for a library in Pollock Pines and for a better community understanding of the gardening needs of our unique micro climate. They originally called themselves “The Pot and Plot Club” and held meetings in their homes.
The Pot & Plot Club’s early attempt to start a library began with a “book mobile”, which was actually just a wagon. When asked if they used cars or horses, Lorraine said, “No, we just pushed it around.” The idea for a Pollock Pines Library really advanced when the land for the project was donated by Mr. & Mrs. O. G. Carr and the lumber and other building materials were donated by Harvey West, Jr. Of course, the Pot & Plot Club took responsibility for the landscaping and maintenance of the new library grounds. In the early 70’s our members donated the pink dogwood trees you still see there today; thus, in 1973 the club officially changed it’s name to “The Dogwood Garden Club of Pollock Pines”.
We have come a long way since those days and grown substantially – we are around 65 members and counting. Although the majority of members are from the Pollock Pines and Camino area, we also have many from surrounding areas: Pleasant Valley, Placerville, Cameron Park and as far as Folsom. We continue to provide and maintain flowers and greenery at the library and at the entrance to Sly Park Recreation Area. We have participated in the U.S. Forest Service “Penny Pines” program since 1979, donating enough money to reforest over 100 acres of El Dorado National Forest. In 2007, we began a beautification garden at the entrance to Pollock Pines in memory of Lorraine Land and every year in November we make holiday boughs and – with the help of many husbands – decorate Pony Express Trail.
Today the DGC still operates as a not-for-profit garden club. Our income, minus expenses, from fundraisers and contributions goes to EDC schools, libraries, youth groups and community service organizations. We also participate in EDC community events and parades and support the Pollock Pines & Camino Community Center Association. On October 26, 2004 we were recognized by the EDC Board of Supervisors with a commendation for our support of the Pollock Pines Library and community services.
The DGC meets on the 1st Wednesday of each month at various locations
And after all is said and done – we just have a lot of fun!