Club celebrates centennial with sculpture dedication at library

The Elgin Garden Club, a group of civic-minded women who have made significant contributions to the community since the club was founded in 1916, celebrates its 100th anniversary.

The club has planned a year full of special public activities and celebrations to acknowledge the milestone. The first was Thursday's dedication of a sculpture donated by the club to the community. The steel sculpture, "Autumn," was designed by artist Larry Danyluk, who specializes in wind-driven "kinetic" sculptures that demonstrate the forces of nature. The sculpture was permanently installed at the Rakow Branch of the Gail Borden Public Library on Bowes Road in Elgin.

"Elgin Garden Club is very excited to be celebrating its centennial anniversary. In keeping with our 100 year history of giving, the club is proud to present the Rakow branch with a beautiful sculpture, with the hopes the community continues to enjoy the art piece for years to come," said Stephanie Doran, Elgin Garden Club president.

The original members were the wives and daughters of business and civic leaders who wanted to beautify the community. The original mission statement of the club has not changed in 100 years: "To cultivate the spirit of gardening in its fullest sense, together with an appreciation of civic beauty and betterment in and about Elgin."