Staten Island’s Hidden Garden: A Senior’s Labor of Love Brightens Canterbury House
Bill O'Connor’s self-funded garden has transformed the grounds around Canterbury House in Rosebank into a peaceful, green space for residents to gather and socialize. Over the past year, O’Connor has dedicated himself to weeding, mulching, and planting, bringing new life to what was once a barren patch of rocks.
A Lifelong Passion for Gardening
Growing up in the South Bronx, O’Connor nurtured the only green thing in a junkyard—a sumac weed—which sparked his love for gardening. Now 84, he finds gardening therapeutic, helping him cope with the challenges of aging and maintaining his health.
From Barren to Vibrant
After moving to Canterbury House, an income-restricted senior housing facility run by St. John’s Episcopal Church, in 2012 following Hurricane Sandy, O’Connor asked permission to start a garden.
“I really lucked out with the garden because I missed my garden, so I asked the priest of St. John’s Episcopal Church at the time if I could start one,” he recalls. “He said, ‘Bill, you can do it, but you’ve got to make it look nice because this is the first thing you see when you come up to the building.’”
By 2014, O’Connor had transformed the rocky patch into the vibrant garden it is today.
Personal Investment
The garden remains a personal endeavor, funded entirely by O’Connor himself and occasional gift cards from family. He buys soil, fertilizer, and other gardening supplies from local stores like Home Depot.
“I pay for all expenses out of my own pocket,” he says, underscoring his dedication.
The garden not only enhances the beauty of Canterbury House but also offers residents a tranquil place to connect.
Author’s Summary
Bill O’Connor’s dedication to creating a lush garden at Canterbury House reflects a lifelong passion and provides a therapeutic, welcoming space for the community.
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