For more than seven decades, the Buckeye District of the American Rose Society has been the heart of Ohio’s rose-growing community. What began as a shared passion among a handful of dedicated rosarians has blossomed into a thriving network of 12 local rose societies, each committed to cultivating beauty, education, and camaraderie.
Planting the Seeds of a Legacy
The Buckeye District was officially established in 1950, though its roots stretch back even further. In a time when rose societies were forming across the country, Ohio’s rose enthusiasts saw the need for a regional network that could unite their efforts. In 1954, the district formally adopted the name **Buckeye District of the American Rose Society**, marking the beginning of an enduring legacy.
The Cleveland Rose Society, the oldest in the district, hosted the first organizational meeting at Mentor High School, bringing together six founding societies:
- Cincinnati Rose Society
- Greater Cincinnati Rose Association
- Columbus Rose Club
- Central Ohio Rose Society
- Miami Valley Rose Society
- Cleveland Rose Society
At this pivotal gathering, Mr. Hastings, Secretary of the All-America Rose Selections, painted a vision for the future of rose cultivation. Inspired, the newly formed district elected its first leaders:
- Harry O’Brien – District Director
- Fay McNamara – President
- Tom Haber – 1st Vice President
- Joseph Kern – 2nd Vice President
- Robert Simpson – Secretary
- Edward Wickert – Treasurer
From Six to Twelve: A Flourishing Community
From its humble beginnings, the Buckeye District has more than doubled in size, now encompassing 12 local rose societies across Ohio, each led by passionate gardeners who continue the district’s mission:
- Cleveland Rose Society – Jeff Sommer
- Columbus Rose Club – Jim Hering
- Delaware Area Rose Society – Brian Burley
- Forest City Rose Society – Jeff Sommer
- Garden Club of Marion – RobAnn Ervin
- Greater Cincinnati Rose Association – Chris Brogan
- Lancaster Rose Club – Sue Heffner
- Miami Valley Rose Society – Teresa Ramsey
- Northeastern Ohio Rose Society – Dalia Armonas
- Stark County Rose Society – Marian Wyman
- Toledo Rose Society – Neree Emmons
- Western Reserve Rose Society – John Jamison
Throughout the decades, the Buckeye District has remained a hub of education, mentorship, and friendly competition, hosting two Region 4 Conferences and seven National Conventions for the American Rose Society. A key part of this outreach has been The Buckeye Rose Bulletin, first published on July 15, 1955, and recognized with multiple awards, including a Gold Medal (2014), two Silver Medals, and three Bronze Medals for excellence in district publications.
Cultivating Knowledge and Excellence
The Buckeye District has always been about more than just growing roses—it’s about growing rosarians. Since 1955, the district has trained and appointed Consulting Rosarians, trusted experts who guide members in everything from selecting the right rose varieties to tackling common challenges like disease resistance and pruning techniques. CR Schools and workshops remain a cornerstone of the district’s educational mission, ensuring that every generation of rose growers has access to the wisdom of those who came before them.
Competitive rose exhibitions have also played a key role in the district’s history. The first Judging School was held in 1955 in Lima, and since then, the district has been home to some of the finest rose judges and exhibitors in the country. Leaders like Dr. Jim Hering (Horticulture) and Dr. Gary Barlow, Terri Lady, and Dr. Elton and Ann Smith (Arrangement) have helped maintain the highest standards in rose competitions, ensuring that the art of exhibiting roses remains as refined as ever.
Honoring Those Who Paved the Way
The Buckeye District has never lost sight of those who built its foundation. The McFarland District Trophy, first awarded in 1956, continues to honor outstanding contributions to rose cultivation. Since its founding, the district has been guided by 16 Directors, each leaving a lasting mark on the community:
- Ray McNamara
- Harold Allen
- Wade Belden
- Betty Payev (served two terms)
- Bob Miller
- Pete Zimmerman
- Merle Holcomb
- Russ Bowermaster
- Jim Hering
- Gary Barlow
- Terri Lady
- Jim Zimmerman
- Elton Smith
The Future of the Buckeye District
The story of the Buckeye District is still being written. As new members join and new gardens bloom, the district’s legacy continues to grow. Whether you’re an experienced exhibitor or just discovering the joy of growing roses, there’s a place for you here. The Buckeye District remains dedicated to education, preservation, and the shared love of roses that has connected generations.
Join us in celebrating and preserving the legacy of Ohio’s roses.