Barriefield Rock Garden, Kingston

The Bill Robb Barriefield Rock Garden, located in Barriefield Village, is a cherished community project that adds a touch of natural beauty to the area. Established in 1990, the garden runs from the bottom of Main Street alongside James Street to the rock cut along Highway 2. Its creation was spearheaded by Bill Robb, a retired Bell Canada lineman and engineering technician, who meticulously planned and developed the garden using an aerial photograph as his guide.

Bill Robb's vision for the garden was realized with the help of local federal prison inmates, whom he recruited during his volunteer work. These inmates assisted with the gardening efforts and many of them later pursued careers in the landscape industry. This initiative not only beautified the village but also provided valuable skills and opportunities for the participants.

The Barriefield Rock Garden is renowned for its distinctive natural landscaping, which has earned it multiple Kingston Community in Bloom awards. During the Christmas season, the garden becomes even more magical as it is adorned with twinkling lights, thanks to the efforts of Barriefield volunteers. This festive tradition highlights the strong community spirit and the lasting legacy of Bill Robb's dedication to enhancing the local environment.