Westcroft Gardens & Farm — Attraction in Grosse Ile Township

Two days after the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence, announcing the colonies' separation from Great Britain, Westcroft Gardens was officially established on the island of Grosse Ille, July 6th, 1776, making it the oldest farm in Michigan’s history. In addition to being a 250 year-old historical landmark, the gardens at Westcroft are a stunning sight to behold, thanks to the constant care, stewardship, and love of 8th generation original descendants. Erica, Clayton, and tuxedo-wearing feline boss Luna, greeted me with smiles, warmth, and an amazing knowledge of the plants and flowers they raise from seedlings. Their irrepressible passion for the land and its legacy, buoyed my spirits, and for just a few hours, made me feel connected to a time nearly lost two centuries ago. Sure it's super easy for me to buy plants from the local megachain big-box store under the dismal glow of fluorescent lights, but I honestly rather make the 90-minute drive from Lansing to Westcroft Gardens, where I can be transported back to a simpler time when we bought our goods from their ardent creators, and support those who devote their lives to the preservation of our...

A hidden historical gem. Established on July 6th, 1776, Westcroft Gardens is nearly 250 years old! The amount of love that has been poured into this land, from the countless plants to the countless weddings and everything in between, it is such a place of beauty and peace. I cannot even count how many times I have been there in my 35 years of life! What I can count though is on Westcroft Gardens to always have whatever I am looking for for my garden! I have so many flowers from there, and many that came from there that my Grandma bought who then clipped some for me to plant in my own yard. Nearly all the flowers on my property come from Westcroft...

I help my wife with some of her photography shoots at Westcroft and I have to say that I noticed that this place is totally different with each season setting! I like taking our kids thru the grounds often and let them explore as it helps get me a break from the stressors of life! This is such a safe area and everyone is so laid back and friendly!

I used to think of the gardens as a "once a year" must do but I realize that I have been missing out if I didn't stop in with each season. This place is now a "once a season"...