For 100 years Hudson Park Children’s Greenhouse (HPCG) was where plants were grown to fill our parks, children came to learn about gardening and residents grew orchids and cacti plants that fascinated park visitors. We created a new and modern greenhouse in the spirit of that historic greenhouse. We host garden programming activities and horticultural programs for children and the whole community of New Rochelle.
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Greenhouse History
The two connected greenhouses, built between 1911 and 1929, supported the City’s parks and beautification programs for decades. At least one of the greenhouses was built by the notable firm Lord & Burnham. They are among the very few remaining municipal greenhouses in Westchester County. The greenhouses were most recently used for growing plants by senior citizens, school students of all ages and children with developmental disabilities. The greenhouses were closed in 2009 due to structural deterioration, the poor economy, concerns about utility costs, broken glass and a failing concrete slab floor. Sadly, the entire structure is now fenced off to prevent entry and has fallen into further decay. The current greenhouses will soon be torn down.
Committee
In 2015, a group of concerned residents formed the non-profit 501(c)(3) organization known as the Hudson Park Children’s Greenhouse (HPCG). Our group consists of fifty-six engaged constituents united in the purpose of creating a valuable community asset and establishing a sustainable operating resource for the public. Our members are a diverse group that includes an agronomist, chemist, environmental specialist, accountant, educators, tradesmen, professionals, business owners and community leaders. HPCG President Millie Radonic-Ilich is the Founder of Amy’s Greenhouse at Barnard Early Childhood Center in the City School District of New Rochelle, and she was asked to spearhead this initiative based on her success there.
Programming
The HPCG programming subcommittee runs horticultural programming in two New Rochelle public schools, Trinity Elementary and Barnard Early Childhood Center. Our garden educators are retired teachers who have taught series on seeds, vegetable gardening and propagation and have installed raised garden beds. We are working with Trinity Elementary staff and administration to create a multi-year series of garden programming that runs from first grade through fifth grade.
Latest News
Cornell Cooperative FREE NUTRITION CLASSES
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Westchester County
is offering FREE NUTRITION CLASSES
to assist resource-limited families who have children 19 years or young... read more
Holiday Wreath-Making Workshop
Get into the holiday spirit with a fun and festive DIY workshop! Why spend a fortune on a store-bought wreath when you can craft your own? In this workshop, you'll learn how to design and assemble a beautiful, personal... read more
Family Amaryllis Bulb Planting Workshop
Join us for a delightful family workshop at Hudson Park Children's Greenhouse, where everyone will learn all about the fascinating world of amaryllis bulbs and bulbs in general. Amaryllis bulbs are renowned for their s... read more
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Testimonials
Noam Bramson
Mayor of New Rochelle
Millie and her volunteer army are working to restore a unique piece of New Rochelle’s history and make it once again a shining gem for our community.
Joyce Kent
Retired Teacher
The work that I do at HPCG has added so much satisfaction to my retirement. For me this is a volunteer activity and the reward is watching the children learn and enjoy the world around them.
Charles B. Strome III
City Manager of City of New Rochelle
Both the City Administration and the City Council have demonstrated support for this project
Kim Martelli
Registered Architect
Concerned citizens want to preserve the history of Hudson Park, and educate the community on sustainable living.