The late Ann Richards was a political legend who grew up in Texas and went on to represent the Lone Star State as its 45th Governor. Despite her Texas roots, Richards shared a great love for all things New York City – especially its public parks and green spaces. Richards passed away in September 2006.
Spearheaded by her dear friends – New York Restoration Project (NYRP) Founder Bette Midler and long-time NYRP supporter Liz Smith – the idea of creating a garden to celebrate Richards’ brassy, tough-talking persona and her lifetime contribution to Democratic politics and ideals was conceived.
With the help of seed money provided by Midler, Smith and other close friends of Richards, NYRP engaged garden designer Lynden Miller to envision a space along the Harlem River and within our Swindler Cove Park. The garden will feature native wildflowers and several varieties of shrubs and trees – including cherry trees that connect the garden with NYRP’s Harlem River Cherry Esplanade.
NYRP is currently seeking funds for this important project that will further green the landscape of Swindler Cove Park. Individual donations will not only enable NYRP to execute Lynden Miller’s design, but create a maintenance endowment to ensure that this community garden continues to thrive and grow for years to come.
Join Bette, Liz Smith and friends and colleagues of Richards in honoring her passion for politics and the Big Apple by making a donation to the Ann Richards Garden. To make a contribution, contact Kristin Dougherty at NYRP at kdougherty@nyrp.org.