Celebrating 50 Years of Educating and Inspiring Community Through Nature: Reeves-Reed Arboretum Marks Milestone Anniversary

Reeves-Reed Arboretum, a beloved sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and a beacon of environmental stewardship, is thrilled to announce its golden jubilee as it commemorates 50 years of serving the community. Since its inception in 1974, Reeves-Reed Arboretum has remained dedicated to preserving biodiversity, fostering environmental education, and providing a serene oasis for visitors to connect with the natural world.

As Reeves-Reed Arboretum reflects on five decades of growth and achievement, it invites the public to join in honoring this significant milestone. Events, programs, and initiatives throughout the year will highlight the rich history and impactful contributions of the Arboretum to the local community and beyond.

Key highlights of the Arboretum’s anniversary year include:

Special Events: From guided nature walks and botanical workshops to live music performances and art exhibitions, there will be an array of engaging events throughout the year designed to celebrate the diverse beauty of Reeves-Reed Arboretum and its role as a cultural hub. Seasonal festivals include Daffodil Day (April 14), Celebrate Fall (October 20) and the Festival of Trees (December 8), an Anniversary Summit Garden Tour and Tea (May 30), Sounds of a Summer Night Concert Series, its annual fundraising gala ART in the Garden (June 8), and Notable Garden Speaker Series to name a few.

Community Engagement: Reeves-Reed Arboretum is committed to fostering a sense of community and environmental responsibility. Through volunteer opportunities, educational programs, and collaborative initiatives with local schools and organizations, the Arboretum aims to empower individuals of all ages and abilities to become stewards of the environment.

Historical Exhibits: Delve into the fascinating journey of Reeves-Reed through captivating exhibits highlighting archival photographs, documents, and anecdotes that chronicle its evolution over the past 50 years. The Arboretum’s year-round history exhibit is open Tuesday-Sunday, 10am – 4pm. A special anniversary exhibit will be held in the fall of 2024 in the Wisner House Gallery.

Legacy Projects: In honor of its 50th anniversary, Reeves-Reed Arboretum will continue to restore over six acres of natural woodlands and one mile of hiking trails. This restoration will rejuvenate and strengthen the ecological health of the forest and provide the necessary habitat for local wildlife.

“Reeves-Reed Arboretum has been a beacon of natural beauty and environmental education for half a century. Together, we look forward to the next chapter of growth, innovation, and conservation as we continue to preserve and protect this precious sanctuary for generations to come.”

– Jackie Kondel, Executive Director of Reeves-Reed Arboretum

Reeves-Reed Arboretum will be making an announcement later this year about an exciting new project aimed at enhancing sustainability, conservation efforts, and accessibility within the arboretum grounds. This project will improve the visitor experience and make more of the gardens and grounds accessible for all, leaving a lasting impact for generations to come.

Commemorative Merchandise: Show your support for Reeves-Reed Arboretum and commemorate this special occasion with the purchase of 50/50 anniversary raffle tickets and exclusive 50th-anniversary merchandise, including tote bags, caps, and souvenirs available at all upcoming Arboretum events and in their pop-up gift shop.

“Reeves-Reed Arboretum has been a beacon of natural beauty and environmental education for half a century,” shared Jackie Kondel, Executive Director of Reeves-Reed Arboretum. “As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we express our deepest gratitude to the community, volunteers, donors, and supporters who have played a vital role in our journey. Together, we look forward to the next chapter of growth, innovation, and conservation as we continue to preserve and protect this precious sanctuary for generations to come.”For more information about Reeves-Reed Arboretum, upcoming events, and how you can get involved, visit the Arboretum’s website at reeves-reedarboretum.org or follow the Arboretum on Instagram and Facebook at @reevesreedarboretum. Reeves-Reed Arboretum, listed on both the National and State Registers of Historic Places, is located at 165 Hobart Avenue in Summit and is open to the public 365 days a year.