A Local Park in Pottstown to Visit and Honor Veterans

A recent article in the Pottstown Patch listed several places to go over Memorial Day weekend to honor our veterans, but the one closest to Pottstown was left out. Memorial Park (off King and Manatawny) is a beautiful place to visit any time to reflect on those local men and women who have served or are serving our country.

Located a short walk behind the athletic fields and across the creek, is a hidden treasure….the area that gives the park it’s name.

In addition to the magnificent monuments, there are four lovely garden areas to visit – all of them designed, planted and maintained by the Pottstown Area Garden Club.

>Blue Star Garden

This garden was established in 2008 as part of the National Garden Club’s nation wide program to place brass plaques across the USA honoring all men and women who had served, were serving, or would serve in the armed forces. Since WW II, the Blue star symbol has been displayed in homes and businesses in recognition of sons and daughters who are/have been in active service. This garden contains roses, hydrangeas, perennials, and an anonymous gift of a crepe myrtle given in memory of a loved one.

>The Bandstand Garden

This reclaimed area is adjacent to the bandstand and contains red, white, and blue blooming perennials and shrubs including hydrangea, roses, coneflowers, daisies, coral bells, and much more.

>Gold Star Memorial

This small garden is located near the pagoda behind the bandstand. It is in honor of mother’s who have sacrificed a loved one for our freedom. Surrounding a beautiful granite tribute are lilies, salvia, lamb’s ear, and sedum.

>Vietnam Memorial

One of most beautiful and extensive areas in Memorial Park, this tribute to those who served in Vietnam was designed and financed by the local chapter of Vietnam veterans. It has wandering shaded paths, which incorporates bricks with the engraved names of local servicemen and women, memorial trees, a lovely pagoda popular for wedding pictures, magnificent bronze statue of a kneeling soldier, and a new flagpole garden planted this year. Continuing the patriotic theme of red, white and blue plants this area contains azaleas, daisies, coral bells, salvia, fescue, and much more.