Founded In 1891 By A Columbia University Professor Of Botany - New York Botanical Garden
The history of the Bronx Botanical Gardens does not begin in the Bronx; it actually dates back to 1801 when Columbia University Professor David Hosack established one of America’s first botanical gardens, the Elgin Botanic Garden, on land that today is occupied by Rockefeller Center. The university rented out the land to local farmers in an effort to raise funds. Although the Elgin Botanic Garden is long gone, Hosack’s legacy lives on in the Bronx. One of his students, John Torrey, a leading American botanist of the mid-19th century, was instrumental in founding the Torrey Botanical Society. An early member of the Society was Nathaniel Lord Britton, who co-founded The New York Botanical Garden.
New York State acquired land from Fordham University and the estate of Pierre J. Lorillard IV to establish part of the Bronx Park. It was on the northern end of Bronx Park, and sections of land previously owned by Pierre J. Lorillard IV, that the New York Botanical Garden would be built. The Bronx Park also hosts the Bronx Zoo, as both attractions are located next to each other. Some of the buildings previously constructed and owned by Pierre J. Lorillard IV, such as a stone snuff mill, were retained on the grounds.
The development and construction of what would become the Bronx New York Botanical Garden was financed by philanthropists and legendary titans of business and finance, including Andrew Carnegie, Cornelius Vanderbilt, and J.P. Morgan.
The grounds feature the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, a greenhouse built between 1899 and 1902. Its design is attributed to Robert W. Gibson and William R. Cobb, and it was constructed by Lord & Burnham, greenhouse manufacturers.
The imposing Italian Renaissance-style LuEsther T. Mertz Library Museum Building, which houses one of the world's largest collections of botany-related texts, was built between 1899 and 1901. The building’s architect, Robert W. Gibson, chose Italianate architecture, which was associated with formal surrounding gardens and favored by 19th-century aristocrats, including those who helped fund its construction. In addition to the gardens, the Italianate style is often linked with fountains, and Carl Tefft’s Fountain of Life (1903–1905) stands prominently at the building’s entrance.
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The history of the Bronx Botanical Gardens is rich and fascinating, stretching far beyond its establishment in the Bronx. It begins with Professor David Hosack of Columbia University, who founded the Elgin Botanic Garden in 1801, one of the earliest botanical gardens in America. The garden was located where Rockefeller Center now stands in Manhattan, but it was short-lived. Hosack's work laid the groundwork for future botanical endeavors, and his legacy continued through his student, John Torrey, a renowned botanist. Torrey played a significant role in founding the Torrey Botanical Society, which would influence future generations of botanists, including Nathaniel Lord Britton. Britton would go on to co-found The New York Botanical Garden, ensuring the continuity of the tradition of botanical study and conservation in the region.
The creation of the Bronx Botanical Garden involved acquiring land from Fordham University and the estate of Pierre J. Lorillard IV. The land was situated in the northern part of Bronx Park, a location that also became home to the Bronx Zoo next door. This proximity to the zoo created a hub for nature and conservation within the Bronx. Interestingly, some buildings, such as a stone snuff mill, which were part of Lorillard's estate, were preserved as part of the garden's history.
Financial support from prominent figures like Andrew Carnegie, Cornelius Vanderbilt, and J.P. Morgan was crucial in the development of the botanical garden. Their contributions ensured that the garden could be constructed and maintained to become one of the foremost botanical institutions in the country.
One of the garden's most iconic features is the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, a stunning greenhouse built between 1899 and 1902. Designed by architects Robert W. Gibson and William R. Cobb, and constructed by the Lord & Burnham greenhouse company, it remains an architectural and horticultural treasure.
Another key structure on the grounds is the LuEsther T. Mertz Library Museum Building, which houses one of the world's largest collections of botany-related material. Built between 1899 and 1901, the library was designed by Robert W. Gibson in the Italianate style, a popular architectural choice among 19th-century aristocrats. The building is also home to Carl Tefft's Fountain of Life (1903–1905), a striking feature that adds to the grandeur of the area.
The Bronx Botanical Garden's rich history, beautiful grounds, and impressive collections make it a testament to the passion and dedication of many individuals who have shaped the world of botany and conservation over the centuries.
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What you should know:
Tickets can be purchased online or on site.
Check website for days and hours of operation.
Onsite parking is available for a fee, but it may be limited during peak visitation days.
A tram is available to get around the expansive grounds.
There are walking trails.
Public restrooms are available.
You could spend a couple of hours to an entire day enjoying the park.
Check website for any special events.
Picnicking is allowed in designated areas.
Location: 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx, New York 10458
For more information: The New York Botanical Garden
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