The Gardens of Remembrance
The Gardens of Remembrance are located on the north side of the Edson and Margaret Larson Alumni and Leadership Center on the Mayville State University campus. The Lyng Garden of Comet Pride and The Garden of Personal Service are collectively known as The Gardens of Remembrance.
The spirit behind the establishment of these gardens is to honor those who have served in significant roles at Mayville State and who have been positive forces in the history of our beloved institution. This is a place for those who have been a part of the institution's history can reflect on their memories. It is also a place where future generations can learn about the treasured history that has endeared Mayville State University to so many.
Background
Several members of the Mayville State alumni community played an integral role in salvaging architectural elements when three historic buildings, East Hall, West Hall, and the Old Gymnasium were demolished a number of years ago. The idea behind salvaging these items was to eventually incorporate them into the greenspace of the campus as a way to remember and celebrate the buildings which are a part of Mayville State history. The designers of the Gardens of Remembrance, Lute Simley and Doug Anderson, have incorporated some of these architectural elements into the Gardens of Remembrance. These resources, along with financial assistance from private donors and grant support, are helping to fund the costs associated with establishing the Gardens of Remembrance.
The Garden of Personal Service
The Garden of Personal Service is located on the northwest corner of the grounds at the Larson Center. This garden honors current and former employees of Mayville State, along with those who love and support our beloved institution.
Historical elements featured in this garden include four of the lions that once guarded the south entrance to the former Old Gymnasium. The centerpiece of the 1927 fountain that was once located on the southeast lawn in front of Old Main is also incorporated. The original cherub that once topped off the fountain has not been located, but another cherub sculpture has been donated and takes its place in the Garden of Personal Service.
The Lyng Garden of Comet Pride
The Lyng Garden of Comet Pride is an extension of the Edson and Margaret Larson Alumni and Leadership Center building sign. The garden includes the flagpole that stood proudly atop Old Main for decades, in addition to railing that was once on the historic East and West Halls.
The garden has been dedicated in honor of Dr. Merwin and Myrna Lyng, who have been instrumental in making the Gardens of Remembrance possible. They were involved with salvaging architectural elements and other items from East Hall, West Hall, and the Old Gymnasium when the historic buildings were razed several years ago. Their enthusiasm for the university and its history was a key component in creating a place on campus where the historic buildings that had been razed could be remembered. T
Myrna and Merwin Lyng have dedicated their lives to the betterment of Mayville State University, not only through their many volunteer efforts, but also as employees. They have invested hours and hours of volunteer service to Mayville State and generously opened their country home to countless new Mayville State employees, parents of students, alumni, and other VIPs who have needed temporary housing for various reasons. They truly have made a difference for the university and for the associated people. Their connection to Mayville State began when they enrolled as students and later graduated with bachelor’s degrees, then returned as faculty members and employees. Their steadfast support continues today.
Remember someone special. Sponsor a plant in the Gardens of Remembrance
You can play an important role in supporting the Gardens of Remembrance at Mayville State by sponsoring a plant in memory or in honor of someone special. Think about remembering a current or former Mayville State employee, a current student or alumnus, or anyone who you hold near and dear to your heart.
Sponsorships are $25 for a daylily/hosta, $50 for a shrub.
Click here to make your gift online now.
Checks may be sent to MSU Foundation, 330 Third Street NE, Mayville, ND 58257. Please write "plant sponsorship" in the memo line and indicate who your gift is in honor of or in memory of.
For more information, contact the MSU Foundation at 701-788-4687 or alumni.mail@mayvillestate.edu.
Future Opportunities
There are a few opportunities for naming rights associated with future landscaping embellishments at the Larson Center. If interested, call 701-788-4750 or email alumni.mail@mayvillestate.edu.