Thomas A. Christopher

Thomas A. Christopher

2021 Sarah Chapman Francis Medal

In recognition of his educational and inspirational horticultural writing, lecturing, and broadcasting through which the gardening community has gained a greater appreciation of our fragile environment.  

Proposed by: Middletown Garden Club, Zone II

Through his many books, podcasts, magazine and newspaper articles, and lectures, Thomas Christopher has elevated the art of garden writing, giving readers a deeper understanding of the natural world. With a touch of humor in clear and crisp prose, he captures the attention of his readers. From his first book, In Search of Lost Roses, to the award-winning Garden Revolution: How our Landscapes Can Be a Source of Environmental Change, to his most recent book, Nature into Art: The Gardens of Wave Hill, he has instructed thousands of gardeners. His writing explores a wide range of topics—heirloom chickens, tropical plants, xeriscaping, making hard cider, and slow-growing fescues—expanding our understanding of the many facets of sustainable gardening. He reaches a wide audience with his syndicated column, “Be a Better Gardener.” Thomas Christopher’s work expresses the joy we feel in nature, helping us become better gardeners and more conscientious ecological stewards.

The Sarah Chapman Francis Medal is awarded for outstanding literary achievement related to any aspect of The Garden Club of America's interests.

The Sarah Chapman Francis Medal was endowed in 1964 by Priscilla Beacham Stanton (Mrs. Otis Cook Stanton), The Garden Club of Buzzards Bay, Zone I, in memory of her mother, Sarah “Sallie” Dimon Chapman Francis (1874-1962), GCA member-at-large. The medal was created by Allison Macomber based on a design by Susanne S. Underwood, Garden Club of Buzzards Bay.

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