Horticultural Heirlooms
The timeless tradition of heirlooms refers to more than jewelry. In gardens, heirlooms are any cultivars that keep their genetic make-up and are shared by generations of seed savers. Here are two stories of famous ones.
Mortgage Lifter Tomato
While trying to feed his family and
neighbors and pay his mortgage during
the Great Depression, "Radiator Charlie"
crossed four tomato strains to create this
signature plant. This big meaty tomato was so
successful, Charlie was able to sell seedlings
for a dollar each and paid off his mortgage in
six years. Thus, the Mortgage Lifter was born.
Blue Hubbard Squash
This heirloom dates back to the 18th
century when a sea captain delivered the
seeds of this plant to friends in Marblehead, MA.
In the 19th century, it made its way to Mrs. Elizabeth
Hubbard. Eventually, it was named the Blue Hubbard
squash by her neighbor and well-known seed marketer
James Howard Gregory, who included it in his catalog.
Because of the sweet flavor, Blue Hubbard squash
was favored for making pumpkin pies.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Horticulture & Forestry.
Location. 41° 40.045′ N, 83° 40.361′ W. Marker is in Toledo, Ohio, in Lucas County. It is
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Small Tree, Big History! (here, next to this marker); Peter Navarre Cabin (a few steps from this marker); a different marker also named The Peter Navarre Cabin (a few steps from this marker); Elmer W. Hinkleman Rhododendron Gardens (about 600 feet away, measured in a direct line); Limousine Garage / Metroparks Hall (approx. 0.9 miles away); Horse Stables / Visitors Center (approx. 0.9 miles away); The Story of Stranleigh (approx. one mile away); Veterans Memorial Flag Pole (approx. one mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Toledo.
Credits. This page was last revised on February 4, 2023. It was originally submitted on May 18, 2021, by Craig Doda of Napoleon, Ohio. This page has been viewed 69 times since then and 7 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on May 18, 2021, by Craig Doda of Napoleon, Ohio. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
