The gardens of the Rogers Funeral Home were chosen as the August Garden of the Month
May through November, if the weather cooperates, the Beautification Committee of the Milford Garden Club selects a special property to be recognized as our “Garden of the Month.” For the month of August, we have selected one of the most beautiful properties in Milford, Rogers Funeral Home, which is located at 301 Lakeview Ave. The initial home was built in the late 1800s.
In 2017 Matthew and Carrie Hovatter moved from Maryland to Milford and most interestingly, Matthew is the son of a funeral director. Matt and Carrie, with the help of their three boys immediately began transforming the mansion and property into both their residence and business.
They added to the dwelling, turned a storage area into a lounge and together do all their own yardwork. From reestablishing a beautiful lawn to planting and creating a beautiful, serene area including a small pond with a fountain and gazebo, they have created an outstanding property. Numerous urns and pots placed throughout add wonderful touches of color both on the porch and throughout the yard. Shades of red, pink and white vinca dominate the landscape but knockout roses, oak leaf hydrangeas, tall red cannas, and other flowers along with crepe myrtle trees and holly add both interest and beauty to their landscaping.
The home has historical value in Milford. Built in 1898 and known as “Lakelawn,” it was originally the home of Dr. Frank L. Grier who married Florence Caulk, the daughter of Levin D. Caulk and founder of L.D. Caulk Manufacturing. Dr. Caulk died after falling from a horse on the way to visit Frank’s brother, G. Layton Grier. His widow offered to sell the company to the brothers in 1900 and they moved the dental operations to Milford from Camden.
The home is built in the Greek Revival style with gables, columns and balustrade railings over all porches. A formal garden was added later. In 1923, the home was expanded significantly with a two-story addition. This addition was completed in order to host President Warren G. Harding during a quick visit to Milford on June 9, 1923.
One unique feature of the property was the “Crow’s Nest,” which was constructed in 1895 in an old beech tree located on the lake across from the home. Local couples would meet in the Crow’s Nest and carve their initials in the tree before watching the sun set over Silver Lake. The structure fell into disrepair after Dr. Grier died in 1937 and the beech tree fell during a thunderstorm in 1963.
The Grier family remained in the home until 1952 when it was sold to John and Jean Rogers who operated a funeral home out of the building while raising their family of five. John’s son, Perry, eventually took over the business.
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