Central Park Rose Garden developed over decades, beginning with its design by Colonel Charles D. Brown in 1959 and the planting of its first 400 rose bushes in 1960. Views recorded the stone garden walls in 1965, an early garden view in 1967, and the garden at its peak in 1970, while in 1966 Mayor Ellis crowned a Rose Queen at the annual Rose Festival. Concerned neighbors and rose lovers formed the Rose Garden Restoration Committee in 1995 to restore and maintain the garden’s original beauty, oversee maintenance, develop a master plan, and raise funds through donations, grants, and activities. The committee launched its first annual Garden Party fundraiser in 1996, designated a Crime Victims Area in 1997, and saw the garden named an Outstanding All-America Rose Selections Display Garden in 1999. Rose arbors were donated in 2001, a Brick Paver Fundraiser Program began in 2002, a restoration master plan was announced in 2006, Phase 1 Spring Pond restoration began in 2007, and Phase 2 gate house and staircase work followed in 2008. The garden marked its 50th anniversary in 2009 and won third place in the 2010 America’s Best Rose Gardens award. From 1996 to 1999, families and friends contributed funds for rose bushes planted in honor of and in memory of many individuals during the initial fundraising campaign. In 1996, Charles W. Carl, Jr., owner of the Carl Company and a dedicated rosarian, became a major benefactor whose vision and legacy helped the garden continue to be recognized as an outstanding All-America Rose Selection Display Garden. Through volunteer work sessions during the growing season and community support, the committee has sought to ensure that the rose garden continues to bloom for future generations of rose lovers.