WHAT’S WITH THIS AZALEA FESTIVAL THING?

1st in a series

To; Landon parents, grandparents, students, alumni, families and friends

Sixty years ago, the Landon community got together to raise funds for the scholarship funs and the tradition has carried through weather, bad economies, other school fundraisers and even a pandemic. Why should a parent, grandparent, student, alumnus or friend participate. A little background might help attract you to participate.

The largest part of Landon’s 75 acres was owned by the Andrews Family, who included a Bear Alumnus, and they decided to sell the property to Paul and Mary Leigh Banfield. The couple had started a school, first downtown and then close to the permanent location.

At the Bradly Boulevard end of the Andrews Farm was property owned by Theron and Milo Perkins, the clapboard house in the middle of the garden grounds. They lost both sons in World War II; both young men had attended Landon. The mother and father decided to deal with their grief by cultivating azalea plants that would beautify their home.

Back in 1960 during my Form I year, my mom volunteered me and my Dad1 (L*42) to work at the Show, as it was called then. I did not see spending time all weekend at the place where I went to school. She explained to me that the Mothers were inspired by honoring the 2 Perkins Bears for their sacrifices. The connection between these memorial flowers and these two Landon alumni started my career of working thereafter.

More to come on this charitable event.

Please consider being part of the Landon Community effort

Azalea Festival – Volunteer Sign Ups https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c054aa5ac29a3f94 Cashiers

Bear Boardwalk

Funland

Bear Beverages

Cement Bears

Azalea Plants

Spring Flowers

Bearly Used

Plant Pick Up

Bear Bakery Donations

Herbs & Vegetables

Riddles Griddle