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Assistant, Gardener, Friend: Elzie Cote & Herbert H. Dow, Fri, Feb 28 • 11:45 am-1 pm • Trailside Center, 4700 Dublin Ave

Hired in 1891, Elzie Cote was one of Herbert H. Dow’s earliest employees, quickly becoming a trusted assistant at the Midland Chemical Company. In 1900, Mr. Dow persuaded Elzie to join him full time as head gardener of his new family estate, known as “The Pines.” Over the next three decades, H.H. Dow and Elzie Cote transformed acres of sandy stump land into thriving orchards, ponds, pathways, and horticultural beds, creating Dow Gardens. By the time Elzie Cote retired in 1943, he’d been working for the Dow family for more than 50 years. Join Kyle Bagnall, Advanced Learning Program Manager at Dow Gardens, as we examine the life and work of Dr. Dow’s “first-hand man” and learn of his lasting contributions that Midland residents still enjoy today.

Aim to arrive by 11:30 am in Trailside and after your table is called, take your lunch into room 160. The talk will begin as close to 11:45 am as possible and end by 1 pm. Space is limited in the room, so please call ahead to reserve your spot and register for lunch at 633-3700. Lunches are by donation to those over 60, or $6 for those under 60.