A Place of Honor
Dedication of Fred A. Erb Arboretum Reflects Erb Family’s Roots in City of Royal Oak
On Thursday, April 27, 2023, on the eve of Arbor Day, representatives of the Fred A. and Barbara M. Erb Family Foundation were on hand for the naming of the Fred A. Erb Arboretum in Royal Oak. It was a day of tremendous pride for Foundation Chair John Erb and others who were there to honor and celebrate the continuing impact of Fred and Barbara Erb’s legacy including Royal Oak Mayor Mike Fournier. The event also welcomed third graders from Addams Elementary School who helped plant trees.
Building on the Erb Family’s long history in Royal Oak, a Foundation grant to the Royal Oak Civic Foundation will make it possible for the City of Royal Oak to plant 100 trees in the Arboretum over the next two years to expand its collection of native plantings. It will also support the addition of benches, picnic tables, interpretive signage, and specialized maintenance.
John Erb spoke at the dedication about the special place that Royal Oak has in the hearts of family members, as well as the strong alignment between the Foundation’s mission and the Arboretum—which provides residents and visitors of all ages with opportunities to learn about native species of trees, wildflowers, and shrubs; volunteer; and enjoy a beautiful natural space. He thanked the many people and organizations who have worked to improve the Arboretum, including:
- City of Royal Oak
- Royal Oak Civic Foundation
- Royal Oak Nature Society, and
- Community volunteers
Their leadership and actions in protecting and stewarding places like the Arboretum ensure future generations can benefit and learn from the environment and the impact it has on water quality and the Great Lakes.
About the Arboretum
Located at the southeast corner of Lexington Boulevard and Marais Avenue, the Fred A. Erb Arboretum spans 4.25 acres in the City of Royal Oak. It contains walking trails, a butterfly garden, a rain garden, a native tree collection, a mushroom garden, playgrounds, and grassy areas. It is maintained by the City of Royal Oak and the Royal Oak Nature Society.