Monday, 21 September, we found ourselves at the "secret" garden at the University of Rhode Island. Named after the College of Pharmacy's founding dean, the late Heber W. Youngken Jr, who was a pioneer in the study of medicinal plants and "now there are 300 medicinal plants in sodded areas, walkways, benches shaped in the form of birch leaves and a translucent sculptural frieze featuring panels that depict plant life in laboratory slides. The courtyard and garden are places for research and respite from the demands of 21st century life."
A self-guided audio tour through the garden is available "to learn about the Indigenous history and uses of several plants, featuring stories by Silvermoon Mars LaRose, a member of the Narragansett tribe. Specifically, this tour shares details, descriptions, and stories about the traditional Indigenous knowledge of some of the plants that have long inhabited Rhode Island. Visitors are welcome to start and stop at any point along the tour - simply tap your phone to the black circular chips by a sign to listen to the audio."
Our guide this evening was Elizabeth Leibovitz who is the Garden Coordinator at the Garden. "She is an experienced educator with an interest in ethnobotany and horticulture. Leibovitz was inspired to create the audio garden tour as a way to center Indigenous tribes in the history of plant medicine, shedding light on the unique ways in which plants have been used in Native history, culture and medicine."
There is so much to see, smell and touch. Free tours are available year round but must be scheduled in advance. Call 401.874.2761 or email elizabeth_leibo@uri.edu.
