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The land occupied by the Bodine Street Community Garden, located at 914 South Bodine Street and 939-941 South 3rd Street, is the size of 3 city lots. In June 1980, Philadelphia Green helped local community members turn this previously unsightly trash-strewn vacant lot into a lush neighborhood green space.
Over the years the garden has blossomed into an urban oasis where generations of families in the neighborhood have had free plots to grow vegetables and flowers, compost or just hang out and barbecue. The garden supplies outdoor space for urban dwellers without land of their own. In these hectic times, this space has become a little haven where neighbors can meet, socialize, share gardening tips, and become friends.
In May of 2000 famous Philadelphia mosaic tile artist Isaiah Zagar created a beautiful mosaic tile mural, The Garden Goddesses, on one of its walls. This generous installation of public art has become an attraction for neighborhood residents, many bringing visitors here as part of their Queen Village tour.
In 2003 the garden's land was put on the market to be bought by a developer. The gardeners sprung into action to save this community green space. After over 4 years of hard work and help from many people (notably: Rob & Lisa Buscaglia, Mike Legacki, Bob & Cecelia Mader, Terry Mushovic, Carla Puppin and Councilman DiCicco) this beloved garden is now official protected greenspace with the Neighborhood Gardens Association.
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