If you go down to the woods at the Port Moody Station Museum this summer, you might be surprised at what you’ll find.
Tucked away in a little corner under a giant weeping willow tree are a tree gnome, elves, a fairy and other creatures of the forest.
The museum’s new enchanted garden was created by staff and volunteers, and is yet another draw to the popular museum that also houses artifacts from the city’s past and a first-class CPR sleeper car.
It was started with a grant from Pacific Coast Terminals and developed over the summer with many recycled objects, paint, wire and colourful rocks as well as some imagination.
“We wanted something that would excite the children and give them some happiness during these difficult times,” said Brianne Egeto, museum manager and curator.
Many families have already visited the garden, which includes tiny colourful houses, a tire dragon that kids can sit on and so many little visual treats that it might takes several visits to take it all in.
“Even adults are enjoying the garden,” commented Egeto whose children — ages four and seven — helped with the concept.
With a bench painted in rainbow colours and a space for storytime, Egeto said it could also be used as a destination for local daycares. And it’s wheelchair accessible.
The enchanted garden will be open throughout the summer and possibly expanded next year with more items; community donations are welcome.
“Hopefully it will grow,” said Egeto.
Already there has been lots of support: community member Leanna Cousins created rock fairy houses and rock animals; Auto Grip Tire Port Moody donated tires for the tire dragon and Alan Walsh from Celtic Cabinet Refinishing jumped in to help build the dragon. Paint was donated from Sherwin-Williams Canada.
The Port Moody Station Museum is located at 2734 Murray St. next to Rocky Point Park.
