Gifted garden

This is Scott Sunken Garden. Richard Scott, president of REO Olds Motor Company, commissioned the garden to be built in 1930 on the foundation of the house that previously belonged to Edward Cahill, an attorney, Michigan Justice of the Supreme Court, and civil servant who “lived a clean life, a well rounded-out life, a life devoted to the highest ideals, a life full of accomplishments.” (micourthistory.org) Cahill was also captain of the First Michigan Colored Infantry during the Civil War, which he raised after being discharged for disability. It is written within Cahill’s memorial, " While he was Republican in politics, he never hesitated to vote and act independently if his conscience and judgment as a good citizen so dictated.” (micourthistory.org)

This historic garden and memorial is threatened with being destroyed (potentially relocated); it is the proposed site for an electrical substation for surrounding businesses. While cleaner and more efficient energy is needed, it boils down to a matter of capital.

I stumbled across the garden a few years ago on accident while out and about. I pulled into the driveway to reroute. It was oddly nestled along the freeway access near the automotive plant, across the river from the coal burning Eckert Power Plant. Being a member of ViewBug has opened my eyes to a world of some of the most beautiful places imaginable. From the architectural intricacies of historic landmarks to breathtaking landscapes—there is so much beauty to appreciate. Who would have thunk that Lansing has such a place just as beautiful, with a history that pays tribute to men who stood for something greater, more enduring, with value that far exceeds the cost of any capital expenditure… our civil rights and ability to equally pursue happiness.

I hope it remains so future generations can appreciate this gift they were given so many years ago.


http:--www.micourthistory.org-special-sessions-in-memoriam-edward-cahill-
http:--quod.lib.umich.edu-c-clementsmss-umich-wcl-M-2660cah?view=text
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