Dawes Arboretum, one of oldest in USA, marks 80 year anniversary; Newark, OH

Dawes marks 80 years | newarkadvocate.com | The Newark Advocate
Local arboretum among the oldest in the United States
BY ABBEY ROY • Advocate Reporter • June 7, 2009
NEWARK -- The foliage of an ancient and towering beech tree formed a natural canopy over the small crowd gathered Saturday afternoon on the patio of the Dawes Arboretum Visitors Center.
As Dawes volunteers dished up slices of birthday cake for guests, the Crystal City Chorus launched into a colorful rendition of 'Rockin' Robin,' and Mary Jane Dawes Bolon sat nearby, taking in the scenery.
The granddaughter of Dawes Arboretum founders Beman and Bertie Dawes became well acquainted in her childhood with the property that now spans almost 1,800 acres, and she was pleased to be present for the celebration of the arboretum's 80th anniversary.
'It's a very tranquil and special place,' she said, recalling memories of Sunday dinners enjoyed around her grandparents' large table and fresh milk from the milkhouse on the property.