Staten Island’s hidden garden: A senior’s labor of love brightens Canterbury House

Staten Island’s Hidden Garden: A Senior’s Labor of Love

The grounds around Canterbury House in Rosebank are noticeably greener thanks to Bill O’Connor, a resident who has dedicated his time this year to weeding, mulching, and planting.

A Lifelong Passion for Gardening

O’Connor's love for gardening started in his childhood in the South Bronx, where he cared for the only green plant in a junkyard—a sumac weed. Now, gardening provides him with therapeutic relief as he copes with age-related health challenges.

From Barren Rock to Vibrant Garden

After moving to Canterbury House, an income-restricted senior housing facility run by St. John’s Episcopal Church, following Hurricane Sandy in 2012, O’Connor asked permission to create a garden. He recalls,

“I really lucked out with the garden because I missed my garden, so I asked the priest of St. John’s Episcopal Church at the time if I could start one. He said, ‘Bill, you can do it, but you’ve got to make it look nice because this is the first thing you see when you come up to the building.’”

By 2014, he had transformed a barren area of rocks into a flourishing garden.

Personal Project and Self-Funding

The garden remains O’Connor’s personal project, with all expenses paid from his own funds and occasional gift cards from family. He buys dirt, fertilizer, and supplies from stores like Home Depot.

Community Impact

His garden provides a peaceful space for residents to gather and enjoy a bit of nature.

Author’s summary: Bill O’Connor’s dedication turned a rocky patch into a thriving garden at Canterbury House, offering therapy and community joy through his self-funded efforts.

SILive.com — 2025-11-04