The Markham Regional Arboretum Society began in 1981 with a small group of people who loved gardens.Their goal was to turn sixteen acres of land, a portion of which had been sold to the City of Concord by Ira and Bee Markham in 1966, into a beautiful arboretum. They wanted to fulfill the Markham's dream of leaving a legacy of natural beauty for all the people of the region to enjoy. It was a vision of a place full of unique and interesting trees, shrubs, and plants from all around the world that thrive in our unique, inland yet marine-influenced climate: hot days and cool nights in the summer, with cold, frosty nights in winter time.

Today this arboretum is a place of quiet beauty less than 20 blocks from downtown Concord. With its main entrance at the south end of La Vista Avenue, much of it is still in its natural state, with vegetation only slightly tamed. Shade-dappled Galindo Creek flows through it. Stroll along the paths or pause in a sunny meadow to count the birds and butterflies.

The International Garden is a place to see a large variety of trees, shrubs, perennials and vines arranged by country or continent of origin. It is a place where people can walk and admire unique plants and trees that grow well in our area. It is a place where people can learn about the huge variety of plants that can be grown in their own back yards. It is a forum for landscape professionals, as well as a laboratory for the weekend gardener.

The Bud Hansen Wisteria Arbor

Opened in July, 2002, the Bud Hansen Wisteria Arbor is a project sponsored by the Rotary Club of Concord/Diablo in partnership with the City of Concord and Markham Regional Arboretum Society.

"Bud Hansen was a life-long resident of Concord. He was a builder, active in the community, his church, and Rotary. His father, John Hansen, built the original wisteria arbor in Todos Santos Plaza, so it is appropriate to establish an arbor in Bud’s memory in the International Garden of Markham Arboretum."
-Mike Pastrick, Former Mayor, City of Concord

The central feature of the International Garden is the Bud Hansen Wisteria Arbor. Hexagonal in shape, the vine-covered arbor provides shade for a variety of community events—from lectures on gardening to musical concerts. Construction of the arbor was funded through major donors, the sale of engraved bricks, and direct donations.

The Bud Hansen Wisteria Arbor is just one outstanding feature in Markham Nature Park and Arboretum.

Bud exemplified the Rotary spirit of "service above self." He was instrumental in the construction of Heritage Center and Plaza Towers in downtown Concord, providing approximately 300 units of senior and disabled housing. In addition, Bud worked to convert a downtown adult theater into a community center for the First Presbyterian Church.

A longtime member and president of the Concord Historical Society, Bud did much to preserve the history of the Concord area. Wisteria became connected to the Hansen family name when Bud's father, also active in the contracting business, built a wisteria pergola around Todos Santos Plaza. Outside of China, this was the world's largest pergola, and every spring its wisteria blossoms attracted visitors from afar.

"The Wisteria Arbor honoring Bud Hansen will be the crown jewel at the newly completed International Garden in Markham Nature Park. This project embodies the spirit of Bud Hansen and all that he and his family have contributed to the quality of life in Concord."
-Steve Weir, Former Mayor, City of Concord, and Board Member of Markham Regional Arboretum Society

"Bud Hansen contributed greatly to the quality of life in the City of Concord. This memorial arbor will be a wonderful addition to the Markham Nature Park and a fitting remembrance of his achievements in making this a better community."
-Laura Hoffmeister, Council Member, Rotarian

"Bud Hansen was always available to give time, talents and support to the community of Concord. He built many buildings in Concord, including the Heritage Towers for senior citizens. I am proud to support Bud Hansen Memorial Arbor in Concord's Markham Park."
-Mark Desaulnier,County Supervisor