The Morris estate was opened to the public in 1933. Now, 90 years later, it has not only become known for its amazing collection of trees but also for its spectacular gardens.
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University of Pennsylvania President Thomas Sovereign Gates officially opened the Morris estate to the public in the spring of 1933 as the newly minted Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania. Now, 90 years later, the Morris has not only become well known for its amazing collection of trees but also for its spectacular gardens. To celebrate this milestone in our history, we expanded our name to Morris Arboretum & Gardens. The name change more accurately describes ALL of our offerings as we make the Morris more accessible and welcoming to wider audiences.
“As we stand on the cusp of our second century, our role as a place for joy and healing has never been more critical,” said F. Otto Haas Executive Director Bill Cullina. “Lydia Morris gifted the Arboretum to the University of Pennsylvania so it could become a place for botanical research, horticultural education, and public engagement. With our new name, as well as a continued focus on research, horticultural design, exhibitions, and public events, I believe we are celebrating Lydia’s gift in all we do.”
One of the highlights of the Morris Arboretum & Gardens is the Garden Railway. Last May, the enchanting Garden Railway kicked off its 25th anniversary with an additional 300 feet of track. This is the largest expansion of the Garden Railway since it was installed in 1998 and brings the rail line total to one third of a mile, making it one of the largest outdoor model train displays in the country.
The Morris’s renewed commitment to bringing more accessibility, color, and beauty was on full display last summer as we reopened our popular Rose Garden in June. By installing bluestone pavers on the two central axis walkways, we have made it easier for visitors of all ages and abilities to experience the vibrant flowers.
Speaking of gardens, we also invited our guests to step into a floral kaleidoscope as we debuted Exuberant Blooms, a new summer pop-up garden that is a modern interpretation of the intricate and picturesque flower beds favored by Victorians. In addition to this new exhibition, our visitors enjoyed a Community Day, a cottage covered in pumpkins and our much-loved Holiday Garden Railway.
The upcoming year holds even more surprises and a roaring good time when we unveil our summer of dinosaurs! From a dino-filled Garden Railway to an exhibition on prehistoric plants, there will be ground-shaking fun for everyone to experience.
As the Morris looks toward its next century, we are planning events and displays that cement our reputation as a place of respite, beauty, and learning and where the joy and wonder of the natural world inspire all who visit.
