Located in the Old City Cemetery near the Old Mortuary Chapel, the garden is the burial site of Stephen Hamilton, son of Alexander Hamilton. Restoration of several plots in the area was made possible through a grant from the T.S. and K.D. Glide Foundation and the Perennial Plant Club of Sacramento. Brick restoration was completed by the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department Work Release Program.When restoration began in 1997, the only plants in Hamilton Square were a few roses and trees. Plant donations from Robert Hamm of Valley Perennials, Dr. Marla McClaren, Target, and Perennial Plant Club members have turned this area into a perpetually blooming site.
The majority of plants are from the five Mediterranean areas in the world – California, the Mediterranean Basin, Chile, South Africa and Southern Australia. Roses donated from the San Jose Heritage Rose Garden, City of Sacramento, Heirloom Old Fashioned Roses and Barbara Oliva, are modern versions of “old fashioned” roses. These roses bloom almost continuously for eight months of the year. Perennials are mixed with the roses to demonstrate landscape ideas to the visitor.
Visitors are encouraged to visit this garden any time of the year on self-guided tours (map). Many roses are labeled, but the majority of plants are not because this area is first a historic cemetery and secondly a garden. A brochure will soon be available directing the visitor to certain areas to view specimens of special interest. During the Open Garden event in April, docents are available in Hamilton Square for tours.
Volunteers are always appreciated to work in Hamilton Square. There's weeding, deadheading perennials and roses, pruning, reworking plots and planting chores. If you are a student in Horticulture, we could even work out a work study for you with the college so you get credit. I am usually at the cemetery one day a weekend and two to three days during the week. Since we are a non-profit agency, you can deduct from your tax return any mileage to and from the cemetery or any plants you donate . Call Sharon at (916) 455-8166 if you would be interested in this opportunity.
