Walsall is proud of the Arboretum, and Lord Hatherton would be impressed at how it has grown into the heart of Walsall over 150 years, having originally donated the land.
But not everyone knows about the Anniversary, and the history of this wonderful green space. It officially opened on 4th May 1874, and 150 years later it is still seen as one of Walsalls pride and joys.
Whilst a formal event is planned for the 4th May, WAUG would like to continue to promote this landmark through the rest of the year, by branding the car park and main entrances, as well as adding to a couple of events with an anniversary twist. We are especially keen that young people (16 - 24) have more opportunity to engage with Arboretum, and learn about and enjoy the facilities.
Signage , branding , Victorian actors at events, a special display at the annual bonfire, a mass community bulb planting in the Gallery Garden will help all of Walsall to know about the last, (and maybe the next ) 150 years.
What we'll deliver:
- Highly visible Anniversary signage at Car Park and Bandstand, and surrounds of the Arboretum
- Victorian Actors at the Geopark Festival in July
- Mass community bulb planting , September 2024, in the Gallery Garden
- Special anniversary display at Arboretum Bonfire, November
Why it's a great idea:
Some residents use only a small part of the Arboretum , some only attend occasional special events . This is an opportunity to enable a wider range of people to use more of the Arboretum, especially young adults. The aim is to support engagement , possibly encourage volunteering, to have greater knowledge of the natural world within the Arboretum. The bulb planting will aim to specifically engage young people.
Steps to get it done:
- confirm order for 800 bulbs ;July 2024
- engage schools, youth groups, and college by personal contact 2-14 september from 2nd to 14 september advr
- confirm mass planting date /social networking throughout september
- Confirmation of funding and project start - 21st July 2024
- Confirm order for Victorian Actors - 21st July 2024
- Confirm order for 150 centrepiece at Fireworks event. Aug 2024.
- Order, install and distribute branding Jul 2024.
- Deliver Victorian Actor experience at Music event 27th July 2024
- Deliver 150 centrepiece at Annual fireworks event Nov 2024.
There are a number of active groups within the Arboretum such as walkers, choir , craft, cyclists , runners , bowls. Several thousand attend the bonfire , but may be unaware of the many free activities (table tennis , skateboarding, trim trail) , and the available groups . Raising awareness of the Anniversary will raise awareness of the whole Arboretum.
