Home of Mattie Stephens named Albany Yard of the Month for August

ALBANY — The Albany Area Yard of the Month for August is the home of Mattie Stephens on Dawson Road, members of the Daffodil Garden Club have announced.

Marideane Maxwell, chair of the club’s yard of the month selection committee, noted that Stephens has lived at the residence for eight years.

“Located at 1710 Dawson Road the home sits on the corner and there is lots to see,” Maxwell said. “Great placement of shrubs are a perfect backdrop for many blooming plants.”

She said Stephens has a unique notification when visitors come over.

“Entering the enclosed backyard through the double carport is another delight,” Maxwell said. “No alarm system is necessary because Mattie’s duck is always on call.

“There is a shady covered sitting area with lots of potted plants and then you can stroll around the area and take in so many interesting sites, as well as a fig tree that produces great fruit for eating or for making preserves. Mattie was shelling lady finger peas when I visited and I told her I could return when she had them cooked.”

The Daffodil Garden Club recognizes an Albany area residence each month for outstanding “yardscaping.” Maxwell said the hope is that “others are inspired by our featured yards to improve their own area so that beauty abounds in our city.”

The club, which does not meet June-August, will resume its monthly meetings at 11 a.m. Sept. 15 at the Federated Garden Club on Fifth Avenue. Those interested in attending or in nominating a residence for the monthly recognition may call (229) 436-6888.

The Daffodil Garden Club is a member of the Garden Club of Georgia, a statewide nonprofit organization whose mission is beautification, conservation and education. The state organization has 10,982 members, 378 clubs , 27 councils and 16 plant societies and affiliates.