Address: 301 North Line, Belle Plaine, KS 67013
Phone: 620.488.3451
Website: www.bartlettarboretum.com/
The
arboretum celebrated its centennial birthday in 2010!
Photo courtesy Randy Bradbury
The
In 1910 Dr. Walter Bartlett, a general
practitioner from Belle Plaine, purchased about 40 acres of pastureland along a
winding stream called the Euphrates Creek. A consummate naturalist, Dr.
Bartlett collected waterfowl and minerals, but the hobby that continued
throughout his lifetime, and into a second century and continued by a fourth generation, was
his passion for horticulture and his varied collection of trees.
Photo courtesy Randy Bradbury
Today, in its mature
state, the arboretum has great educational value and is open by appointment. Each year many students of
botany visit the grounds. But mostly it remains a haven for wildlife, artists,
nature and bird lovers, brides and grooms.
The Bartlett Arboretum is privately owned and is not endowed or subsidized. Current steward Robin Macy and her volunteers are in the process of restoring the grounds, rebuilding bridges, removing dead and diseased plant material and trees in an effort to preserve this favorite retreat.
Located 20 miles south of Wichita, the century-old, historic Bartlett Arboretum is home to ten state champion trees, thirteen levels of terraced gardens, and thousands of visitors who come through her gates to walk down memory lane. For 100 years, many generations of Kansans have enjoyed this unique sanctuary once touted as "the only mature arboretum between the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains."HOW TO SEE THE "ARB"
The property is open by appointment. Robin Macy makes the gardens available for educational purposes, concerts on the lawn and for private functions. A $5 per person donation is suggested. Contact Robin at the phone number above or info@bartlettarboretum.com.
The arboretum is located at the intersection of Line Street and K-55 in Belle Plaine.
The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band performs at the "Arb", 2009. Photo courtesy Randy Bradbury