A Bronze Thank You

In March of 1938, Mobile’s Gordon Smith, founder of Smith’s Bakery, sent out numerous letters, like this one to J. L. Bedsole, which read:

“I think you will agree with me that Walter and Mrs. Bellingrath have done a great thing for Mobile in creating that beauty spot known as Bellingrath Gardens. Believing that recognition should be given to those who do something worthwhile, it seems to me that the time is ripe to do something to show our appreciation in a substantial way for Mr. and Mrs. Bellingrath. Our plan is to secure a bronze plaque and have it erected in some prominent place in the garden so that our citizens and visitors can see that we in Mobile believe in these people and believe in what they have done. If you agree, send in your check for $5.00 to me. I will report progress to you from time to time. Of course, we want this kept secret; therefore, I ask you not to say anything to anybody but send your check in promptly. A thing worth doing is worth doing well and worth doing quickly.”

The files in the Bedsole Foundation reflect that Mr. Bedsole contributed the $5 requested. All three of these men were leaders in Mobile, and all three were Rotarians. Walter Bellingrath and Gordon Smith had been charter members 24 years earlier.

The plan worked. Walter and Bessie Bellingrath returned from a trip to New Orleans late on the afternoon of July 18th to find a crowd of 200 awaiting their arrival. Nephew Ernest Edgar, Jr. would later reminisce, “That was the first time I ever saw my uncle speechless!”

Gordon Smith was master of ceremonies and delivered the presentation speech. In part of that address, he recognized the Bellingraths, stating that “what they had done in creating Bellingrath Gardens not only leaves Mobile but the world a better place to live.”

Mr. Bellingrath thanked the crowd but deferred the credit to his wife, saying, “If it hadn’t been for her vision and dreams, these gardens would never be here. She got the idea of developing this place—she always loved shrubbery. All this tribute should go to her. From now on, I hope I can sit here by her side and view this wonderful place we’re holding open so all the public can enjoy it.”