Staten Island’s Hidden Garden: A Senior’s Labor of Love Brightens Canterbury House
Bill O'Connor's self-funded garden has become a tranquil space for residents to gather and socialize. The grounds around Canterbury House in Rosebank are noticeably greener due to his year-long effort weeding, mulching, and planting.
A Lifelong Passion
O’Connor’s love for gardening started in childhood in the South Bronx, where he cared for a sumac weed— the only green plant in a junkyard. Today, gardening offers him therapeutic benefits, helping him cope with health challenges of aging.
From Barren Land to Vibrant Garden
After moving into Canterbury House, an income-restricted senior housing run by St. John’s Episcopal Church, following Hurricane Sandy in 2012, O’Connor sought permission to start a garden.
“I really lucked out with the garden because I missed my garden, so I asked the priest of St. John’s Episcopal Church at the time if I could start one,” the 84-year-old said. “He said, ‘Bill, you can do it, but you’ve got to make it look nice because this is the first thing you see when you come up to the building.’”
By 2014, he had completely transformed a barren patch of rocks into the lush garden seen today.
Personal Investment and Dedication
The garden remains O’Connor’s personal project. He covers all expenses himself, including soil, fertilizer, and supplies, primarily from stores like Home Depot. Occasionally, family members contribute through special occasion gift cards.
Author’s summary: Bill O’Connor’s dedication and self-funded work have turned the Canterbury House grounds into a welcoming garden that nourishes both community spirit and his own well-being.