The Kirkland House property has a new addition thanks to the generosity of a local business and the innovative craftsmanship of Glen Davis.
A custom-designed circular bench has been inserted around a 100-year-old-plus tree, located near the fully restored 1911 Edwardian farmhouse located on Arthur Drive in Ladner on Wednesday morning.
“For years we have been talking about doing something as this is the way people come in for weddings,” said Kirkland House Foundation chair Colin Campbell. “Glen did an amazing job.”
With all building supplies donated by Ladner’s Dunbar Lumber, Davis’ meticulous work includes the bench legs at various heights to sit securely around the tree’s trunk and roots.
“Glen found a historical picture of a bench that would be appropriate. He modified it extensively to accommodate the tree,” added Campbell.
Volunteers are always welcomed to help maintain the impressive Kirkland property that also includes two acres of gardens and the Harris Barn. They are typically there on Wednesday and Saturday mornings.
“They can drop by around 10:30 a.m. for a coffee. If they like us they can come back the following week with some tools. If not then they at least got a free coffee,” laughed Campbell.