Picture the lush greenery. Feel the comforting warmth. Welcome to the Wilder Park Conservatory a true Elmhurst treasure.
This stunning conservatory isn’t just a beautiful place. It’s a living testament to Elmhurst’s rich history. Did you know its story began long before its 1923 construction? The roots go back to 1868. Seth Wadhams built a home and a small greenhouse. He planted numerous tree species. This was the start of Wilder Park’s horticultural legacy. His wife used the greenhouse to cope with the loss of their son.
Later Aurelia Case King inherited the estate. She continued the gardening tradition. She even created an herb garden based on descriptions by Erasmus a Dutch humanist. Her son’s wife Louisa furthered this legacy. She was a renowned gardener writing books on the subject. One was even dedicated to Aurelia. Louisa’s contributions were recognized with a dogwood planting in the National Arboretum. A rose was even named in her honor.
The estate passed to Thomas E Wilder. He donated part of it to Elmhurst. This became Wilder Park including the original greenhouse. In 1923 the Elmhurst Park District added a magnificent conservatory to the original structure. The American Greenhouse Manufacturing Company built it for a mere $6950. This expansion marked the beginning of the Wilder Park Conservatory as we know it today.
Over the years the conservatory has grown. It now houses thousands of plants. Native plants are raised for transplanting into natural areas. The number has increased dramatically since 1993. From 500 to nearly 12000 annually. The conservatory has been a place for weddings family photos and community events. It is truly a magical place.
In 2014 a major restoration brought the conservatory into the 21st century. A $1.84 million grant funded the project. Improved green technologies and energy efficiencies were implemented. The restoration ensured this treasure would continue to thrive for generations to come.
So as you explore the Wilder Park Conservatory remember its rich history. Remember the people who nurtured its beauty. Remember their dedication to nature’s artistry. The Wilder Park Conservatory is more than just a greenhouse. It is a living legacy. A beautiful reminder of Elmhurst’s past and a promise of its future.