The public were invited to the opening of the garden and dedication of the Peace Pole on Saturday, 24th April 2010. This was the culmination of nearly 2 years of talks, meetings and planning to make this Quaker burial ground, which had its last burial in 1852, available to the community as a place for quiet reflection and enjoyment of this tranquil spot. It had been passed over to Weymouth Borough Council for use as public open space and for their upkeep but many years of neglect had left it covered in brambles, alexanders, and self seeded saplings,
The Weymouth Quaker Group, and various interested parties, Friends of Nothe Gardens, and local residents, led and encouraged by Chris Wilson, Chair of the Weymouth Quaker Group, have spent the Winter and Spring clearing the ground in all weathers. With the help of donations and supplies of plants / materials from local garden centres and builders they have transformed the burial ground, which now has an intriguing labyrinth for contemplative walking, ( labyrinths have one path leading to the centre, it is not a maze which have many dead ends!).
The Peace Pole was dedicated by Chris Wilson who read a short 4 line poem which has been used on thousands of similar occasions where such poles have been erected around the world although this one is the first for Weymouth and the first for Dorset. It is a square pole and has the words “May Peace prevail on Earth” written in a different language on each side, Arabic, Chinese, English, and Urdu. This is a multi – faith garden and visitors are expected from many countries.