The Walker-Hecox-Hickle Gardens were established in May 2016 and funded by the Lithopolis American Legion Post 677. The gardens also feature the rock sculptures and martin house built by Dr. Edward Roller, a beloved local doctor who formerly resided on the land where the 1992 addition now stands. He collected rocks from all over North America and used them to create bird houses, vases, and other structures.
In May, 2017, a couple from Lithopolis volunteered to help maintain the gardens. Finding the job overwhelming, they sought help from OSU Fairfield County Master Gardeners and the Lithopolis Garden Club who adopted beds to maintain through the season. OSU Fairfield County Master Gardeners and the Lithopolis Garden Club continue to care for their adopted beds with volunteers.
The OSU Fairfield County Master Gardener Friends of the Wagnalls Project Team was recently named the Outstanding Project of the Year 2021 in the Community Service category for a medium size County Program. In September 2023, the Master Gardeners were featured on Spectrum News 1 Exploring Ohio.
The community has been very involved maintaining and improving our gardens.
Advise, design, donations, discounts, and grants from these businesses have also contributed to the beauty of the gardens.
The gardens are enjoyed by adult and teen gardeners and are used for library programs.