History Center Breaks Ground on Historic Learning Gardens

The History Center is embarking on a long-anticipated initiative to create historical learning gardens on the museum's campus in the heart of Lake Forest. "These gardens are not just beautiful green spaces," explains Carol Summerfield, Executive Director, "but also an opportunity to highlight the significant landscape design styles and land conservation efforts that were conceived and developed in Lake Forest, and how they grew to influence the nation."

The five gardens, designed by Craig Bergmann Landscape Design of Lake Forest, include an Historic Estate Traditional Garden, Courtyard Country Garden, Modern Garden, Midcentury Garden, and Secret Garden. An Allee of trees will connect the museum to the research center. Grand entrances will grace the front and back of the museum and ADA-accessible walking paths with educational signage and benches throughout will make it a place for all to learn, connect, and reflect.

"We believe that these gardens will have a significant impact on our community," adds Katie Hale, President of the History Center's Board of Directors. "They will serve as a vibrant and engaging space that celebrates our past and inspires future generations."

Several local residents are stepping up to help make the historical learning gardens a reality including Lake Forest residents and avid gardeners Ellen and Tom Walvoord. "When we learned of the proposal, we reviewed the plans carefully and agreed—actually very quickly—that we wanted to be part of ensuring that this unusual and creative idea could become a reality," said Ellen. “Pairing the historical evolution of beautiful garden design with the narrative of Lake Forest itself creates a ‘can’t miss,’ experience."

Learn more about these walkable learning gardens and how they will enable our community to come together and share something that celebrates the contributions we have made to American history. Watch the Garden Initiative video.

Upcoming Event: Garden Groundbreaking Ceremony

Join the History Center in celebrating this milestone achievement with a groundbreaking ceremony on April 26 at 11am on their museum campus at 509 East Deerpath, Lake Forest.

Please note that the History Center is Under Construction!
The City of Lake Forest has approved the building permits required to start construction of the gardens. Initial steps include the demolition of the History Center parking lot. Visitors are advised to park on the south side of Washington, which is the side where the History Center is located.

For information on supporting the History Center's historic garden initiative please contact Lisa Frey at lfrey@lflbhistory.org.