[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 206 (Thursday, December 19, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1629]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CELEBRATION OF NEW GARDEN ENTRANCE, GARDEN ENTRY PAVILION, & CIRCLE

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                      HON. WILLIAM R. TIMMONS, IV

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 19, 2019

  Mr. TIMMONS. Madam Speaker, the Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve 
in my district recently celebrated the opening of its new garden 
entrance, entry pavilion, and circle. The Hatcher Garden and Woodland 
Preserve originated as the vision of its namesakes, Harold and 
Josephine Hatcher. The Hatcher's shared a passion for gardening and 
education. The family gradually expanded beyond their initial small 
wooded residential lot to ten acres, adding walking paths and trees to 
rehabilitate the land and reclaim eroded cotton fields. Their zeal 
inspired many volunteers to join their efforts to develop a gift to the 
community--a shared garden and woodland preserve for relaxation and 
information. Their life project was donated to the Spartanburg County 
Foundation in 1987 to ensure its continuance.
  Today, the Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve exceeds twelve acres. 
It is open to the public and free of charge to all visitors, in line 
with the Hatcher's vision. Outdoor education programs are offered for 
elementary school children and opportunities are afforded to more than 
60,000 visitors to experience inspiration, enjoyment, and education 
through nature.
  This December, a two-year project was completed at the Garden. The 
new facilities will enhance the experiences and opportunities enjoyed 
by visitors of all ages, and will continue to be a source of knowledge 
and information to the community. I am grateful for the Garden's 
continued efforts in my district and I look forward to their continued 
success.

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