I’m Andrew, a local Manhattan resident and Central Park lover for the past 11 years, and I’m helping raise funds to honor the life of Francis Lee Rogers. Many knew Francis as the “Grandma Moses of Central Park” — a talented artist and devoted birdwatcher who called the Ramble both her home and her studio.

For years, Francis cared for the park’s wildlife by maintaining bird feeders and capturing the beauty of the natural world through her watercolor paintings. Her presence, her care for the birds, and her deep connection to this special place touched so many people in our community.

Following Francis’s tragic passing at the gazebo near the Boathouse that she cherished so deeply, this fundraiser will help create a lasting tribute in the place she loved. Donations will go toward adopting a memorial tree in the Ramble and placing a dedicated paving stone nearby.

Any funds raised beyond the goal will go directly to Central Park’s tree maintenance programs, helping protect and sustain the natural sanctuary that meant so much to Francis.

Please consider donating or sharing this fundraiser to help honor Francis Lee Rogers and preserve the spirit of the park she loved so fiercely. Thank you for helping celebrate her memory in such a meaningful way.