What if I told you this park is more than just a pretty place? It’s Harvey Cornell Rose Park a living tribute to a man who helped beautify Santa Fe.
Harvey Cornell Rose Park sits at a quiet intersection. It is between Galisteo Street and Galisteo Parkway. People lovingly call it “Rose Park”. Santa Feans have enjoyed it for a long time.
Harvey Cornell was a landscape architect. He lived from 1893 to 1962. The park was named for Cornell after he passed away. This honored his contributions to Santa Fe.
The park was established in 1957. It was meant to beautify the newly established neighborhood. Joe Clark was the first President of the Santa Fe Rose Society. He asked Harvey Cornell to develop a grade slope plan. This would address drainage for the rose gardens. It would also help the lawns and trees.
Local garden clubs once planted irises here. They were in the southern end of the park. The first roses were planted in 1976. These were “Blaze” climbing roses. They grew along the fence at the Galisteo Street edge.
Harvey Cornell’s wife, Herdis Cornell, also contributed. She planted bush roses. Herdis commissioned the fountain. It sits at the center of the northern terraced rose beds.
You can find a variety of roses here. There are hybrid teas, floribunda, and grandiflora roses. The Santa Fe Rose Society has planted many over the past 50 years. The park celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2017.
The park boasts over 20 varieties of roses. Some say there are over 150. It is maintained by several groups. These include the City’s Park Department. Also involved are the Santa Fe Master Gardener Association. And the Santa Fe branch of the American Rose Society.
Harvey Cornell Rose Park is a peaceful oasis. It’s tucked into a quiet Santa Fe neighborhood. You might see impromptu Tai Chi classes. People play Frisbee or touch football here. It is a perfect spot for a small wedding. It is even great for wedding photos.
There are picnic tables and BBQ grills. Alcohol is not allowed but you can pick up some takeout. Add a few candles and sparkling cider. Make it a memorable dinner at Harvey Cornell Rose Park.
The Santa Fe Master Gardener Association helps maintain the garden. They assist with rose pruning. They also do deadheading and mulching. They perform other garden tasks during the growing season.
The Santa Fe Rose Society also contributes. Their mission is to educate the public. They offer free rose care information. They promote the maintenance of Harvey Cornell Rose Garden.
So take a moment to appreciate this space. It is a beautiful park. It is also a testament to community collaboration. It is a lasting tribute to Harvey Cornell.