History

1985

  • In July of 1985 group of like-minded citizens met together to discuss possibility of establishing a Botanical Society.  After a general agreement a constitution was drafted and presented in September.  With forty members enrolled names were submitted for the creation of an executive.
  • First newsletter mailed out.
  • 1st general meeting; held at Horticultural Hall, Botanical Gardens the Executive was established by ballot.
  • Annual Membership Dues:  Single $10 – Family $20 set in 1985 remain unchanged to date.

1987

  • Decision to send monthly meeting notices to all botanically related societies.
  • November – $1500 donated by the Society to repair roof of the Cacti House.

1988

  • Jane Don – President created seniors dues $5 per annum.
  • 1st of several annual charity status certificates.
  • Society established a 5 year plan for the Botanical gardens with Ian Truran and other parks officials.
  • Society created the national bonsai collection donating most of their private plant specimens and donated $1500 to its inauguration.
  • Meetings fluctuated between Horticultural hall & the Arrowroot Factory for the first 10 years.
  • 1st Annual Plant Sale.

1989

  • Indefinite Charitable status granted.
  • Society given notice for use of former Tavern on the Green building.

1991

  • Executives asked to commit to 2 year stints.

1992

  • Constitution Amended.

1993

  • BBS runs tea room and sells a few local craft items.

1994/95

  • Structural renovations – BBS can move out of Board Room into current area.
  • 10th Anniversary.
  • 1st Annual Botany summer camp started for 8-13 year olds.
  • 1st Annual Earth Day Celebrations.

1997

  • Dr. Roberta Dow Scholarship fund created and first year made available to Bermudians  in the amount of $5000.
  • Society donated $12000 to “Learning through Landscapes” island wide schools programme.

2000

  • 15th Anniversary.

2003/04

  • Major renovations to main building.

2005

  • 20th Anniversary.

2009

  • New PC and accounting system for office.
  • Café revamped.

2010

  • 25th Anniversary.
  • Website started.

2011

  • Constitution Amended.
  • Relinquished operation of Botanical Gardens Visitor’s Centre.

2012

  • Website relaunched.

2015

  • 30th Anniversary

2019

  • Website redesigned