Ric’s Garden Debuts at Ashland Terrace

More than 100 people gathered in the flower garden at Ashland Terrace Retirement Home in July to celebrate the dedication of “Ric’s Garden.”

That’s the new name of Lexington’s only public u-pick flower garden.

It’s named for Executive Director Ric McGee, who was feted with a surprise 20th anniversary celebration at Ashland Terrace – “Lexington’s best-kept secret,” according to its residents.

At the surprise party, residents, staff, board members, family and friends showed Ric their appreciation for her time, energy and hard work toward providing a gracious and loving home to 35 women.

Ric started in 1991 with 22 residents in a building that needed TLC.

With the help of a dedicated board, she took the lead in an expansion and renovation project that began in 1999.

A veranda, Florida room and 14 rooms were added, as well as a complete renovation of the standing building.

Being an avid gardener, Ric decided that the home also needed a flower and vegetable garden.

She created a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city.

Open from the time the first daffodil blooms until the first hard frost, the garden has become a popular destination for the community.

Nestled behind Chevy Chase Shopping Center, Ashland Terrace was initially created in 1849 as a shelter for folks displaced by cholera outbreaks in downtown Lexington.

It provided services under the name “The Home for the Friendless” and gradually transitioned to become the “Old Ladies Home.”

In 1923 the Old Ladies Home incorporated and was granted non-profit status.

After moving to its current location at 475 South Ashland Ave. in 1960, the organization changed its name a dozen years later to Ashland Terrace Retirement Home.
Info: 266-2581 or visit  www.ashlandterrace.org.