Alumni Garden

The official opening of the Alumni Garden took place September 15th, 2009. The warm fall afternoon was the perfect backdrop for the joyful celebration of a family’s passion for Shawnigan. Before Dr. John Burr ’49 (Lake’s) and his wife Katharine cut the ceremonial ribbon, Dr. Burr spoke movingly about what a pleasure it was for his family to be able to give the garden to the School. He thanked the School for transforming the initial concept into the beautiful oasis of tranquillity it has become.

Dr. Burr gave special thanks to former Admissions Director Judy Detchon for hatching the plan. It came about when John and Katharine were visiting the School to see their grandson, Austin Fisher ’07 (Lake’s). Dr. Burr had always wanted to repay the School for the life-long lessons he credits Shawnigan for teaching him. Discussion turned to what would become of the land where the last of the old Hill Houses—Lonsdale’s—sat after it was torn down and re-built across Lake Omar. Judy said it would be ideal for a welcoming garden. John and Katharine, who is an avid gardener, immediately seized on the idea. Plans for an Alumni Garden were set in motion. The Burrs were gracious enough to leave most of the design and execution to the School, but were always helpful and interested at every stage of the garden’s development. The result—a lovely setting that perfectly provides the desired outcome as stated on the dedication plaque:

It is intended as a place of beauty, tranquillity and reflection to be enjoyed for generations to come.