A Tribute Rose For Women Who Worked On The Home Front During World War II
by John Bagnasco
In an effort to help to ensure that the contributions of women who worked on the Home Front during WWII – known collectively as “Rosie the Riveter” – are fully acknowledged, members of the Spirit of ’45 Day collaborative are leading a national grassroots campaign to create a “living” memorial in the form of a network of Rosie the Riveter Memorial Rose Gardens.
Some of the goals of the organization are:
- Preserve the legacy of the “Rosies” so that it will continue to inspire future generations of young women and girls
- Promote public awareness of National Rosie the Riveter Day on March 21 during National Women’s History Month
- Encourage participation in annual Rosie Rallies that are held across the country during Spirit of ’45 Day weekend
If you are interested in having a reminder of the patriotic sacrifice of American women planted in your garden, there is a ‘Rosie the Riveter’ floribunda rose that pays tribute to the women who worked in factories and shipyards during World War II. The old-fashioned unusual flowers of orange-gold suffused with pink are surely reminiscent of that era.
The exquisite pointy and shapely buds are proudly held on top of very glossy dark foliage as a feminine symbol of charm and strength. The moderate fruity & spice fragrance is the perfect complement to these cultural icons. Like the tireless “Rosies”, the even-rounded plants of Rosie the Riveter are the workhorse of the garden, producing an arsenal of flowers. Maximum flower power? “We can do it!”
‘Rosie the Riveter’ roses are now available and can be mail-ordered from Heirloom Roses.