Reeves-Reed Arboretum, Union County's Best Kept Secret

Submitted by Doreen Schindler

The 13.5 acre estate nestled in a quiet enclave of Summit, just off Route 24, is open 365 days a year, dawn to dusk, free of charge. The tranquil grounds include woodland trails, azalea, herb and rose gardens, wildflowers, perennials, a greenhouse, bog garden and fish pond, a Freeman Medal Garden, and a stone amphitheatre under a centuries old European beech tree, just to name a few...and there is so much more!

Originally a country estate built in 1889; three families consecutively owned The Clearing. Reeves-Reed Arboretum was founded in 1974 with the aid of local citizens, who raised most of the cost to preserve the estate as an arboretum. Additional funds were provided by city of Summit, which became the property owner.

The Wisner family (1889-1916) commissioned Calvert Vaux, partner in the creation of Central Park’s sweeping “greensward” look, to develop an overall landscape plan.

The Reeves family (1916-1968) commissioned landscape architect Ellen Biddle Shipman in 1924 for a concept design, which was largely implemented by Carl F. Pilat in 1924-1925 and included garden rooms such as the Rose and Azalea gardens.

The Reed family (1968-1973) were the last private owners, whose contributions included the herb garden and the creation of the woodland trails.

Today, Reeves-Reed Arboretum is listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places and seeks to engage, educate and enrich its visitors so they may become better stewards of nature and the environment.

Classes, workshops, camps, and volunteer opportunities are offered for young and old in horticulture, sustainability, environmental education and arts.

Enjoy seasonal events, like Daffodil Day and Celebrate Fall, summer concerts in the garden, group tours and rotating art exhibits on the grounds and in Historic Wisner House throughout the year. Private rentals are also available. There truly is something for everyone at Reeves-Reed Arboretum and it should no longer be a secret!