CULLMAN — Standing under a pop-up tent to catch what little relief was available from the near-100-degree temperatures, Brian Ferguson, aka cowboy, couldn't help but be amazed as he looked at a piece of land which sits on the corner of 4th Street SE and 6th Avenue SE in Cullman's historic district.

For years, certified public accountant Jeb Williamson's home stood there. However, the EF-4 tornado that tore through downtown on the afternoon of April 27, 2011, left nothing but debris and a twisted home. Fast-forward a year and two months later, it's now the home to a community garden, thanks to the efforts of Ferguson and several mission groups from Mississippi and Alabama in getting it going.

"God provides," Ferguson said. "It's incredible to see this. We had nothing when God told us to do this. It's amazing to see how he provides."

Members of First Baptist Church in West Point's youth group, as well as several other groups participated in a mission camp last week hosted by Ferguson's family, which founded Under the Tree Missions in 2009. Several of the young men helped dig 225 feet of water sprinkler ditches, which was dug by hand with picks and shovels. In addition, others chipped in by clearing debris, planting, and staking plants.

Ferguson said the idea to do such a community project came while helping with the tornado recovery effort.

"A lot of the people in the neighborhood here were talking about how depressed they were because of the debris still around, and one of our volunteer pilots who goes with us on mission trips suggested that we start a community garden. It's been really fun so far."

Williamson said he was approached by Ferguson six months ago about the possibility of using his property. With no hesitation, Williamson agreed and said he is thrilled for it to be used for such a good purpose.

"We were happy to make it available for them to use," Williamson said. "Instead of just sitting there empty, I'm thrilled he had the idea to help pull the neighborhood together."

Ferguson also credited Cullman Mayor Max Townson and council members for helping get the project off the ground.

"They were very helpful in getting this all started, and we appreciate that," Ferguson said.

When he was approached about it, Townson said he thought it was a wonderful idea.

"I back them wholeheartedly," Townson said. "I give all the credit to those who came up with it. "

Initially, Ferguson said the plan was to give away pieces of the property for use so that each family could have their own spot. But after returning home from a mission overseas, and getting the majority of the plants donated by Frank Smith, he decided to give away what's harvested for the time being. Eventually, Ferguson said he would like to see it that way.

"This year, we thought it would be a good idea to give away the vegetables and get the word out about the garden, so that when next spring came, people would come out and be able to grow for their own families," Ferguson said.

So far, the garden has squash, zucchini, peppers, okra, eggplant, tomatoes, corn, summer peas, watermelon, and cantaloupe available. This fall, Ferguson said they will plant onions and potatoes. Everything is free of charge.

"If you know someone who is in need, we'll be glad to help them out," he said.

He also encouraged anyone wanting to get involved to do so.

"We would love for people to come and get involved," Ferguson said. "Something is always needing watered, picked, or weeded."

Those interested in doing so, or in need, can contact Ferguson at 256-708-7150.



* Ashley Graves can be reached by phone at 734-2131, ext. 225, or by e-mail at agraves@cullmantimes.com