History of the Path of Life


Bloom 'n Grow Garden Society was founded in the summer of 1997, and quickly grew in membership to almost 150 members. The purpose of the organization was not only to share knowledge and garden ideas, but also to become involved with community beautification projects.

One of Bloom 'n Grow Garden Society's most ambitious project is "The Path of Life" located at the Chapin Station on the West Orange Trail. Orange County Parks and Recreation donated a parcel of land which the garden club along with Trail Friends has developed and transformed into a beautiful and tranquil setting with lovely engraved brick pathways meandering through an area of magnificent live oaks. Phase I of the garden project was completed in 1999. With the completion of Phase II in March of 2002, another brick walkway was added along with the planting of over 1400 plants and trees. A beautiful rock pond with a cascading waterway was constructed. This area is graced by two bronze sand cranes. Benches have been installed throughout the pathway for people to sit and enjoy the surrounding garden.

The Bloom 'n Grow Garden Society has received national recognition for this project. Through the National Garden Society, they were awarded the prestigious Kellogg Award for the nation's best new public garden area developed in 2000. In 2002, the garden club was honored again by receiving a P.E.T.A.L.S. (Protect the Environment Through Action, Learning and Service) grant for the completion of Phase II. This grant is sponsored by Shell Oil Company.

Over the past several years, The Path of Life has served the community in many ways. Numerous weddings and parties have been conducted in this lovely area. People throughout the community have come to relax, meditate and stroll through the beautiful gardens.

Engraved bricks can still be purchased, and all donations and proceeds go back into the maintenance of The Path of Life. The engraved bricks sell for $25.00 each or five bricks for $100.00. This is a unique opportunity for members of our community to honor friends, relatives or someone special in their life.

Directions to The Path of Life : Take the 429 North (either from the Turnpike or Highway 50 (just East of Winter Garden) and Exit on Plant Street. Go West on Plant St to Crown Point Springs Rd., Turn right. Go to Crown Point Cross Rds and turn left. Go past the 4-way stop sign and turn right into the Chapin Station Park. Follow the sidewalk past the trailhead to The Path of Life. Enjoy !!!

For more information, please call 352-343-3125 or 4jackiebrown@gmail.com

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