Paula Harmon Garden
59 Ave. C (Owned by Bill Barnes and Paula Harmon)

This inviting space was designed by artist/gardener Paula Harmon to create the serene, meditative quality of a Buddhist Zen garden. Within the garden walls are plantings that incline toward the tropical. An owner-designed slate fountain, and an egret sculpted by local woodworker Ed Moberly are special features. An outdoor shower allows for bathing al fresco. The enclosed intimacy of the space lends a secret garden feel. Enter the garden from the alley off of Ave. C between 4th and 5th Sts.

“The Steamboat House” Garden
67 Ave. D (Owned by Steve Goodman and Carl Holiday)

Robert Myers built this distinctive home located in the heart of Apalachicola’s historic district between 1849 and1859. The house is a part of the “Florida Jewish Heritage Trail”. In the late 1880s, the house was turned ninety degrees and a second story was added. Enter the garden off of Ave. D and follow the signs to enjoy the wonders waiting behind the tall fence. The brick walkways and patio have been constructed from old brick that was once part of the Apalachicola State Bank. Annuals and perennials grace the garden beds, but the focal points of the garden are the iron antique fountains and garden sculpture recently installed by the new owners. Also known as “The Porches” it is easy to understand how the houhouse acquired this name, as well as that of “The Steamboat House”.

House of Tartts Court yard Garden
50 Ave. F (Owned by Ouida Tartt)

The House of Tartts is a popular Guest House in Apalachicola. Its courtyard garden provides a restful and appealing space for guests to relax. An impressive Lady Liberty welcomes you as you enter the garden from 4th St. She is one of several whimsical features of this charming garden. Scallop shell paths lead to a bird house, birdbath, bottle tree, seating area and pergola swing. Many of the plantings are native to North Florida.

Community Garden
City Square, Corners of 8th St. and Ave. F

City Square Community Garden celebrated its first anniversary in March 2010. The garden was developed through the city of Apalachicola’s Community Pride Program. The intention was to create an inviting space for citizens to grow some of their own food, and to enjoy interacting with their neighbors. There are 29 raised beds in which gardeners grow organic vegetables, herbs, and flowers. There are also two large plots. One provides fresh produce for the local Food Pantry. The other provides a living science lab and healthy recreation for students of the Apalachicola Bay Charter School.
 

 

Veterans Memorial Plaza
Three Soldiers Detail
230 Market Street

A reproduction of the “Three Soldiers” statue, originally commissioned for the nation’s capital, was dedicated in 2008. Apalachicola, Florida was one of many cities destined for this honor, however, once the project was underway, it was determined by the sculptor that this would be the sole location. This meaningful sculpture has found its home in peaceful surroundings near the banks of a great American river. Located at the base of an historical home and garden that hark back to the pioneering days of Apalachicola, it speaks of the past, yet also informs our future. Visitors here can reflect on Vietnam as a symbol of all wars and on the strength and courage of its soldiers.

 

Chapman Botanical Garden
Market Street

In the late 1980s, City Planner John Meyers encouraged the creation of the Chapman Botanical Gardens to honor the legacy of Dr. Alvan W. Chapman. Alvan Wentworth Chapman’s book, Flora of the Southern United States, was first published in 1860. For nearly fifty years, it remained the definitive catalog of flowering plants of the southeast. Dr. Chapman, a member of Trinity Episcopal Church, also served as the church’s choir director for many years. Rejuvenation was begun on the gardens in 2004 under the guidance of the late Lee McKnight. A butterfly garden featuring native plants is a lovely recent addition.