Before the State Botanical Garden on South Milledge, there was the University Botanical Garden, tucked within the residential Hancock Community along Pope Street.

Join us for June’s History Hour as we explore the story of one of Athens’ most fascinating and often-overlooked historic spaces. Established in 1833 by Dr. Malthus Ward, Professor of Natural History at the University of Georgia, the four-acre garden once stretched across the block bounded by Broad, Pope, Reese, and Finley Streets. Created as both a place of scientific learning and public beauty, the garden quickly gained a national reputation and became one of Athens’ greatest attractions.

Together, we’ll look at how the garden reflected changing ideas about education, science, and public life in the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as how its eventual closure helped shape some of the University’s most recognizable landmarks, including the iron fence surrounding North Campus and the Arch itself.

History Hour with Historic Athens One Story is a free monthly educational program held at the Lyndon House Arts Center with complimentary lunch from Rashe's Cuisine available on a first come, first serve basis, including vegan options. We’ll see you Tuesday, June 2 at noon!