Villager History

Sarah Trebilcock and Jeanette Harper purchased the Villager Florist in 1975. Nursery and Landscaping departments were immediately added. Jeanette retired two years later. In 1977, the Villager Nursery was accepted into FTD and Sarah obtained her contractors license. In 1984, Eric Larusson joined the staff after graduating with degrees from both California State Universities Humboldt and Chico. Eric became nursery manager. Rob Van Dyke joined the management staff in 1986 while pursuing graduate studies at California State University, Chico.

In 1987, a decision was made to downsize the landscaping division and to concentrate on the more enjoyable nursery business. The Villager Nursery became a corporation in 1991 with directors Sarah Trebilcock, Eric Larusson and Rob Van Dyke.The following year, the floral department was sold. At the same time the focus was placed on growing species of native plants that were not available elsewhere. This aspect of the nursery business continues to grow along with consulting in native plant landscaping and river restoration.

In 1998, Azad McIver sold us the property where the Villager Nursery is located today. The original blacksmith shop of Truckee was remodeled into our store and offices. The McIver home dating from the 1870’s has been renovated inside and the outside will be restored this summer. A large demonstration garden is under development to aid customers in making selections.

The owners and staff of the Villager are committed to community and environmental service. Sarah is one of the founders of the Truckee River Watershed Council and is chairman of the Truckee River Day Committee. Many staff members are group leaders on River Day. Eric was a Truckee Planning Commissioner and was active in the development of the Legacy trail. Rob is active in avalanche awareness education as a member of the Squaw Valley Snowgods . All of the owners help with projects in the Truckee School District.