Why is RBG called “Royal” Botanical Gardens?
In December 1929 the Parks Board approved the suggestion that the name Westdale Park be changed to something more grand, Royal Botanical Gardens. This change was prompted by Thomas Baker McQuesten, a lawyer who eventually became the Member of Provincial Parliament for the City of Hamilton, who was a frequent visitor to Royal Botanical Gardens in the town of Kew in the southwestern area of metropolitan London, England. Royal Botanical Gardens, also called Kew Gardens, has been a model for many botanical gardens around the world since the 18th century. McQuesten was authorized by the City of Hamilton to approach the Government of Canada for permission to use the term “Royal” in the name of the park. A Royal Charter was granted by King George V of England for the name “Royal Botanical Gardens” in 1930. RBG is the only botanical garden in Canada with the right to use “Royal” in its name. Royal Botanical Gardens 680 Plains Road W., Burlington Ont.
