Marlin, Monarchs, and Milkweed: Marlin Community Garden Club has rich history
Did you know that the Marlin Community Club was founded in 1923 by Ida Pauleen Linthicum, who was inspired to organize the club after reading about the Philadelphia Garden Club, the first club of its kind in the United States?
The Marlin Community Garden Club was the first gardening club in the state of Texas, and because of this, became a charter member of the Texas Garden Club, Inc., in 1928.’ (Baylor University Libraries Archives)
The Marlin Community Garden Club (CGC) is well and active. It boasts a rich 99-year history. On Feb. 18, 2022, the CGC held its monthly meeting at the Senior Civic Center. Special guests were Texas Garden Club Officers Janice King (District V Director), Charlotte Weiss (Past District V Director), and Carol Smith (last year’s Zone 2 Director). Hostesses were Terri Glover and Letitia Estep.
The subject was the majestic monarch butterfly.
Monarchs can be seen in Marlin presently as they funnel through Texas; they do this twice a year, both in the fall and the spring. During the fall, monarch butterflies traverse Texas in a 300-mile-wide path stretching from Wichita Falls to Eagle Pass. Monarchs enter the Texas portion of this flyway during the last days of September.
“Monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) undertake an incredible multigenerational migration from Mexico to the northern U.S. and Canada and back again every year!” (Charlotte Weiss) But their numbers have plummeted. What can we do to help monarch butterflies in Texas and beyond? Ms. Charlotte Weiss’ responded, “Plant native plants. Plant milkweed.”
The monarch butterfly has diminished in its number. There are several factors affecting the monarch butterflies’ loss. The lack of milkweeds is a major cause. The milkweed is their essential nursery plants, but agriculture and development have adversely affected the monarch butterfly. The lack of nectar plants, also crucial to the monarch, are reducing. As with milkweeds, agriculture and development have reduced the number of nectar plants available.
Climate change and habitat loss are other factors. “Human activities continue to threaten and reduce the available overwintering habitat for monarchs in Mexico and habitat throughout their range.” (Baylor University Libraries Archives)
As fundamentally organic growers, members of the CGC understand fully well the effect of pesticides and herbicides. Widespread use of these chemicals impacts monarch populations. That is why every member is dedicated to helping monarchs, beginning with very small steps. They plant the right plants, knowing that just a few plants can make a difference to a hungry butterfly. They use organic methods for planting and growth; they encourage others to do the same. Members of the Marlin Community Garden Club are committed to the adoption of wildlife-friendly practices.
Presently, CGC members are preparing their plants and many other garden-related objects for their Annual Garden Fair on Saturday, April 9, at the Downtown Pavilion in Marlin. Contact Terri Glover at
Please, join the fun and the rich history of the oldest garden club in Texas as they work towards beautification of our community! Contact CGC President Terri Glover at (254) 230-6228.