Everybody Should Know About the Secret Garden

From Dave Brigham:

Peaceful.

Inspiring.

Fun.

Wonderful.

Wonderland.

Surprising.

Such great creativity and energy and love of life and generosity.

These were the thoughts I scribbled in a small notebook ("To Do Lists I'll Never Do") I keep in my camera bag, after visiting the Secret Garden in Shrewsbury, Mass.

This whimsical woodland sanctuary nestled beside a small pond behind Hebert Candies & Gifts on Route 20 is the creation of one man, Bob Terkanian, who also goes by Chief Joseph. He is known across Shrewsbury as someone who is always looking to help, to beautify, to inspire, to create, to share and to do it all without seeking credit and accolades, according to various online articles I've read about him and his work.

Terkanian moved to Shrewsbury from Worcester in the early '90s, and over time has converted his yard and the woods behind it into the Secret Garden, according to this Worcester Telegram article. "The many pieces of artwork tucked among the plants draws (sic) about 100 visitors to his yard each month," according to the article. "Even students from Job Corp half a mile away in Grafton come to hang out on his property because it’s so peaceful and magical."

Some of the pieces scattered through the garden were originally in other places around town. The Manhole Troll, above, kept an eye on the town dump for a while before making its way to Terkanian's woodsy utopia. One of the more threatening bears at the Secret Garden is also a former transfer station denizen.

There are numerous statues of dogs, frogs, owls and other animals, as well as religious figures.

Amidst the beauty and tranquility, there are surprises that will stop you in your tracks.

There are trees that Terkanian has altered....

....and trees that he (or someone) has created.

I enjoyed walking through here just as much as I did exploring Martini Junction, a similarly fantastic display in Needham (see January 30, 2013, "Whimsical Woodlands").

In addition to statues and sculptures that move in the breeze, there are signs posted throughout the Secret Garden designed to inspire creativity, kindness and compassion.

I can't implore you strongly enough to make the time to explore this place. There's plenty of on-street parking nearby, so go get lost in your thoughts.

The Secret Garden is located a stone's throw from the former Tanela Restaurant & Lounge, which is located on the opposite side of Route 20. I included the abandoned restaurant in a post from December 26, 2022, "Drivin' on 20."