It’s a tremendous time to be a friend of the the Missouri Botanical Garden. The opening of the Jack C. Taylor Visitor Center marks a new era for the Garden.
The Garden’s bright future would not be possible without generations of supporters. Henry Shaw made the first bequest to the Garden upon his death in 1889, ensuring his beloved Garden would live on for the people of St. Louis to enjoy. Many dedicated friends have since created a legacy of their own at the Garden. By expanding on Shaw’s vision, they demonstrate their belief in the Garden’s mission.
Anita Siegmund and her daughter Nancy Sueflow are longtime Garden visitors who are establishing their legacies while supporting the Garden’s mission. Their support extends even beyond their lifetimes. When asked what inspired them to include the Garden in their gift planning, they explained: “By including the Garden in our estate plans, we want to ensure the Garden remains world-class in the areas of plant research, conservation, and sustainability while continuing to be a treasured St. Louis attraction for families like ours.”
Anita and Nancy were recently welcomed into the Heritage Society, which recognizes individuals committed to supporting the Garden now and in the future through their planned gifts. Heritage Society members are honored at annual events and receive special invitations to enjoy the Garden throughout the year.
Legacy gifts have been essential to the sustained excellence, global impact, and growth of the Garden. Many donors have made arrangements with an eye toward the future, directing their gifts to the Garden’s endowment. Their invested gifts grow and benefit the organization for generations to come.