Glorious Gardener Polly Moore

March 08, 2023

A Love of History Ensured a Bright Future for the Des Moines Botanical Center

The City of Des Moines would surely look different without Polly Moore’s touch. A member of the Des Moines Founders Garden Club (DMFGC), she was instrumental in the establishment of the Des Moines Botanical Center in 1979. Her efforts included visiting the Denver Office of Federal Funding to secure a grant for the center’s construction. 

In recognition of her leadership, Polly was awarded the 1983 GCA Zone XI Achievement Award and 1985 GCA Civic Achievement Award. In 2015, Polly was recognized as a Sage Over 70, honoring men and women of Des Moines who have made the city a better place to live through civic and business leadership, mentorship endeavors, and community advocacy.

Polly Moore joined DMFGC in 1957 with an interest in the heritage of American gardens, something she attributes to her father. This shared love of history inspired her, along with Lynda Chase, to research the club’s beginnings, publishing "A History of the Des Moines Founder's Garden Club 1919-2008.” The duo later followed up with club highlights from 2009-2013. Their efforts were recognized with the club’s own “Foxy Lady” award.

She became president of DMFGC in 1966 and has gone on to serve GCA in many leadership roles including GCA Recording Secretary and Board member, Vice Chair Nominating Committee, Zone XI Zone rep, Public Relations rep, Visiting Garden rep, Chair of Interchange Fellowship, and Midwest Region Rep for Plant Conservation Traveling Team. Currently she is a member of the GCA Board of Associates. In Polly's spare time you will find her having fun on the golf course!

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