Wood County Arboretum in Quitman planning summer barn sale June 26

After an extra soggy spring, the Wood County Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is celebrating the arrival of warmer weather by holding its first-ever summer barn sale. 

The event is set for 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 26 in the historic 1869 Stinson House, which serves as the cornerstone of the arboretum, 175 Governor Hogg Pkwy., Quitman.

“With the summer sale, we are focusing on items that involve family, entertaining and the outdoors,” said Deanna Caldwell, president of Friends of the Arboretum, which oversees the grounds. “A generous Wood County resident has already donated a large amount of brand new fishing gear. If you want to refresh or recycle, now is the time to clean out those garages, barns and indoor closets. Proceeds from the sale help keep the Arboretum going, and your donations let our volunteers know you appreciate the work they do.”

Household items, outdoor furnishings, art, sporting equipment, garden supplies, outdoor items, children’s toys, furniture, linens, tools, electronics (except console televisions), jewelry, collectibles and similar goods are bargain hunter favorites, organizers said. 

As a side note, the organization is unable to accept clothing and shoes.

“If you didn’t get what you wanted for Father’s Day, come out to our sale,” said garden manager Lin Grado. “In addition to fishing gear, we expect to have hand tools and electronics. We’re also going to have a lot of wonderful things for the garden and even some items that can be used as yard art.”

Donors are welcome to drop off their goods at the arboretum from 8:30-11:30 a.m. every Wednesday or leave on the front porch of the Stinson House. Tax receipts are available.

The 23-acre arboretum, which features a walking trail, tribute plantings and themed gardens, is recognized as a go-to paradise for nature enthusiasts and education leaders. 

It is also home to a new grant-funded Monarch garden, supported by the Native Plant Society of Texas, as part of its Bring Back the Monarchs to Texas project. The new garden features native plant species that the butterflies find attractive. 

For more information about supporting the arboretum, visit www.woodcountyarbo.org, call 430-235-5461 or email  woodcountyarbo@gmail.com.