Growing in Water: The Legacy of Moore Water Gardens

At the April 2025 Heritage Port Stanley meeting, Farley See shared the rich, multi-generational story of Moore Water Gardens, one of Port Stanley’s most unique and enduring businesses. From swampy beginnings to a thriving wholesale nursery, Farley’s presentation traced the evolution of the gardens through rare photos, family history, and industry innovation—offering new insight into a beloved local landmark.

Key Points from the Presentation:

• Moore Water Gardens was established by Monte Moore, son of John Moore, who originally purchased the swampy land.
• Monte had polio as a child—gentle steps at the business were designed to accommodate him.
• He studied Entomology in Florida and developed an interest in water plants.
• Married Isabelle Keen—both families had Port Stanley cottages—and built their home on East Road.
• Monte constructed cement-framed ponds down the hillside for growing aquatic plants.
• The business formally began selling water plants in 1932.
• Early operations focused on mail orders; today, it’s largely wholesale to garden centers.
• Farley passed around catalogues dating from the 1930s to the 1980s.
• Photos showed the original greenhouse layout, ponds, and business growth over time.
• During the pandemic, they paused fish sales due to lack of overseas stock, but plan to restart in 2025 with Canadian suppliers.
• Farley showed an original fish shipping container used via the L&PS Railway, designed with a compartment for ice to keep fish cool during transport.
• Also presented: a unique oak lily planter that sinks to the pond bottom.
• The original cement ponds still exist, though much of the cement has worn over time.
• The presentation generated strong audience engagement, especially from those who hadn’t yet visited the gardens.