June 26 Garden Fundraiser at Branford's Cosgrove Estate

On Sunday, June 26, the gorgeous grounds of Daniel Cosgrove's 40-acre estate will be opened for a fundraising garden tour to benefit Orchard House Medical Adult Day Care, Inc.

The day's $15 donation per guest opens the gates to an event during which refreshments will be served and music provided, as guests are welcome to explore acres of gardens on the pastoral property. The day's donations will fund scholarships for Orchard House clients in need of financial assistance to attend the adult day care center located in Short Beach.

Cosgrove's Todd's Hill Road land been in the family since the mid-1880s. Cosgrove and his wife Alice purchased their parcel in the 1950s from an uncle who owned the original 80-acre farmstead, once home to the largest strawberry farm in Connecticut. Don't be surprised to find the occasional strawberry plant still flourishing in the garden landscape, said event organizer Eunice Lasala.

Cosgrove created a delightful, park-like setting on a portion of the property, including digging two ponds he stocked with fish. His daughter Susan Barnes is credited with installing the property's many beautiful gardens. They include shady hosta gardens, a birdhouse garden, and much more.

The Cosgrove Garden Open House to benefit Orchard House Adult Medical Day Care Center, Inc., is Sunday, June 26, from 2 to 5 p.m. at 99 Todd's Hill Road, Branford. Donation, $15 per person, accepted at the event.