
Sunken Gardens (Lincoln)
Nebraska
Sunken Gardens in Lincoln, Nebraska, is a historic public garden originally constructed during the winter of 1930-31 as a project to employ men during the Great Depression. The garden transformed a former neighborhood dumpsite into a serene green space featuring terraced retaining walls, waterfalls, and water fountains built from rock and stone, reflecting the rock garden style popular at the time. Spanning one and a half acres, it opened with 416 trees and shrubs, quickly becoming a cherished community landmark. In 2003, a significant renovation was initiated, completed in 2005, which included the addition of new statues such as David Young's "Rebekah at the Well" and Dr. Wayne Southwick's "Reville" in the Healing Garden. The Rotary Pavilion, with its dome designed by architect Jeffrey Chadwick representing the four seasons of Lincoln’s skyline, was also constructed to improve visitor facilities. Maintained by the City of Lincoln Parks and Recreation Department, the garden continues to thrive through community support programs like "One Flower Forever" and "Paving the Path." Sunken Gardens is recognized as Nebraska's only garden listed in the National Geographic Guide to Public Gardens' "300 Best Gardens to Visit in the United States and Canada." It offers visitors a peaceful retreat with its unique combination of historical landscaping, artistic sculptures, and seasonal beauty.
ヒント: Visit during spring and summer for the fullest floral displays and enjoy the seasonal sculptures. Consider supporting the garden through community donation programs like "One Flower Forever" or "Paving the Path." While admission is free, check local resources for any special events or guided tours. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer a quieter experience and softer natural light for photography.
興味深い事実
- •Sunken Gardens is the only garden in Nebraska listed in the National Geographic Guide to Public Gardens' "300 Best Gardens to Visit in the United States and Canada."
- •The garden was built on a former neighborhood dumpsite donated by the Frey, Faulkner, and Seacrest families.
- •The original statue "Rebekah at the Well" by Ellis Burman was replaced by a new sculpture by David Young during the 2003-2005 renovation.
- •The Rotary Pavilion dome features laser-cut panels representing the four seasons of Lincoln’s skyline.
- •The garden was originally known as the "Rock Garden" due to its extensive use of rock and stone in landscaping.
歴史
Sunken Gardens was constructed in 1930-31 under the direction of Ernest M.
Bair as a Great Depression-era public works project to provide employment.
The land was donated by prominent local families, transforming a former dumpsite into a beautiful garden.
Initially called the "Rock Garden," it featured rock terraces, waterfalls, and fountains.
In 2003, the garden underwent a major renovation funded by community efforts, completed in 2005, which added new statues and a pavilion, enhancing its accessibility and aesthetic appeal.
Since its inception, it has been maintained by the City of Lincoln Parks and Recreation Department and remains a treasured public space.
場所ガイド
Terraced Rock Gardens1930-31
These rock and stone terraces form the structural foundation of the garden, creating retaining walls, waterfalls, and water fountains that define the garden’s unique landscape style.
Rebekah at the Well Statue2005
A statue by artist David Young representing the biblical figure Rebekah, replacing the original sculpture by Ellis Burman during the 2003-2005 renovation.
Healing Garden and "Reville" Statue2005
Features the statue "Reville" by Dr. Wayne Southwick, depicting his wife Ann waking children for the day, symbolizing care and renewal within the garden’s peaceful setting.
Rotary Pavilion2005
A pavilion attached to the restrooms, featuring a dome designed by architect Jeffrey Chadwick with laser-cut panels illustrating the four seasons of Lincoln’s skyline.
連絡先
電話: (402) 441-8258