Friends of Warner Parks Celebrate Sunday in the Park

The first weekend in November offered up the ideal setting for Sunday in the Park. Co-chairs Grace Clayton, Hugh Howser and Rebecca Rutledge created a beautifully designed afternoon of fun on Ridge Field in Edwin Warner Park. Guests were welcomed by Bill Forrester and his team as they entered the tent. Once under the canopy lined with soft sheers, they enjoyed hors d’oeuvres to nibble while they visited with friends. To signal the end of the reception, guests were led from the reception tent into the main event tent with uplifting songs performed by Nashville-based Echelon Choir.

Once seated, guests were reminded of the purpose of the day, to support the efforts of Warner Parks as they carry on their mission, which is “dedicated to the preservation, stewardship, and protection of Percy and Edwin Warner Parks — an outdoor classroom, an environmental oasis, a focal point of the Nashville community, and home to historic landmarks.” The big announcement of the day was that the Armistead family has created a fund to restore wildflowers and native plants to fields throughout the parks.

The festivities took a reverent turn when President of Friends of Warner Parks, Jenny Hannon, welcomed Clare Armistead, the namesake and great-granddaughter of the late Clare to the stage to present gifts to the co-hosts. Next was a beautifully directed tribute video to Clare which she personally narrated about her love of Warner Parks. In the video she spoke of finding peace and solace while walking in the parks. Finally, Becca Stevens offered “A Toast (Prayer) for Clare Armistead” with music by Marcus Hummon.

After the moving program, guests enjoyed a lunch by Johnny Haffner Catering. Much of the discussion at the table centered around what a precious resource the Warner Parks are to Nashville and Nashvillians. Guests visiting from out of town often comment on the marvel that is the Warner Parks system.