On This Day: May 4, 1965

Today’s On This Day post takes us to the May 4, 1965 dedication of the Carolee Shields Garden in the UC Davis Arboretum. Carolee Shields (1876-1971), was an avid gardener and wife of Peter J. Shields, a Sacramento Superior Court judge who wrote the legislation that led to the establishment of the University Farm (now UC Davis). The dedication program included remarks by Chancellor Emil Mrak, Judge MacBride, and Knowles Ryerson. The nearby Peter J. Shields Oak Grove was dedicated three years earlier at the 1962 Charter Day ceremonies.

The Shields Garden features a collection of all white flowering plants and shrubs. A large gazebo, added in 1966, has become a popular spot for gatherings and weddings.

Dedication of the Carolee Shields Garden in the Arboretum, Knowles Ryerson at podium, Chancellor Emil Mrak, right, 1965 May 4.

Dedication of the Carolee Shields Garden in the Arboretum, in the foreground is the the rock which holds the plaque marking the site of Shields Grove., 1965 May 4.