The History of the Nanaimo Horticultural Society

Founded in Nanaimo on December 10, 1946, the Nanaimo Horticultural Society began with a meeting in the Eagles’ Lounge. Bill Wheeler was appointed chairman pro tem, J. W. Dawson secretary-treasurer, and an initial board was formed with representatives from Nanaimo and the surrounding districts. Lois Mottl served as the Society’s first secretary.

At a meeting in the Legion Hall on February 12, 1947, annual membership fees were set at $1 for men and 50 cents for women. Harry Tuck was elected the Society’s first official president, and J. W. Dawson became secretary-treasurer. Just a few months later, the Society held its first summer show on June 27 and 28, with admission priced at 25 cents for adults and 10 cents for children and students.

The Society continued to grow during its early years. By November 1950, it had 43 fully paid members—half of whom lived outside Nanaimo—demonstrating its importance across the wider region. Regular gatherings were held at many local venues, including the Eagles’ Hall, Legion Hall, Scout Hall, Foresters’ Hall, St. Paul’s Hall, Library Hall, Departure Bay Fire Hall, and Brechin Church.

Over the following decades, a long succession of presidents and executive members guided the organization. Early leaders included Harry Tuck, Alex Potter, and R. Wardle, followed by many others who sustained the Society through the second half of the twentieth century. By its 50th anniversary year in 1996, Mary Taylor was serving as president alongside an active executive and board of directors.

The Society has also honoured members whose long-standing service helped shape its success. Their contributions, together with those of generations of volunteers, helped establish an enduring tradition of horticultural education, seasonal shows, fellowship, and community participation in the Nanaimo region.