By Emily R. Lisska
mail@floridanewsline.com
A brilliant blue sky and a steady soft breeze set the scene for the Mandarin Community Club’s June 1 dedication of the Harriet Beecher Stowe Pavilion. The “Picnic at the Pavilion” dedication also featured an early 20th century-style celebration for the recently completed open-air space on club property fronting Mandarin Road.
The pavilion, next to the historic Mandarin Community Club, echoes gingerbread trim and architectural appointments used on the long-demolished 19th century Stowe cottage once situated across the road. Underwritten by Susie Scott and the late Bruce Scott, the pavilion was completed in time for the 2024 Mandarin Art Festival.
Councilman Michael Boylan performed the official dedication, thanking Susie Scott and her late husband for their many community contributions. A plaque will mark the site as the Harriet Beecher Stowe Pavilion and recognize the donors, both club past-presidents.
“It was a beautiful day,” said Mandarin Community Club President Mark Waterman, who welcomed 75 people to the dedication and a lunch of fried chicken, biscuits, ham, homemade cakes and other picnic fare. Early 20th century music was provided by Mandarin’s Patrick Plumlee and the five-person group Underdawg. Mandarin-area businesses supporting the event included Metro Diner Julington Creek, Olis Garber Photography and Dennis Chan of Blue Bamboo.
Available for rentals and as a site for community events, the pavilion and its acre plus property adjoin the club. The land was donated to the club in 2022 by longtime Mandarin resident Marilyn Carpenter. While the pavilion is now in use, the club seeks funds for enhancements including fans, additional lighting and landscaping.
Photo courtesy Olis Garber
The Harriet Beecher Stowe Pavilion.