Explore the 122-year history of the historic Greenhouse
The original greenhouse was built by the "coal baron" John Cleveland Osgood in 1903 and was originally located at the palatial Cleveholm Manor, which is now the magnificent Redstone Castle. The structure was used to grow vegetables, fruits and exotics during the cold winter months for several years, before it was sold by Lucille Osgood in 1938.
photo credit John Schutte
IIn 1939, S. Floyd Chappel moved the greenhouse to West Glenwood. Edna and Preston Halliburton owned it from 1943 until 1949, when Lloyd and Dorothy White took over. In the early 1950s, Ed and Noemi Niemann founded Glenwood Gardens and operated it with their son Scott Niemann until 1992, when they sold it to Hugh and Molly MacPherson. For over 86 years it has thrived as a working greenhouse.
These historic photos are an inspiration for us to work towards in re-creating the "Victorian Era" theme for our Botanical Gardens. We want the greenhouse to become the centerpiece of our vision. These efforts will depend on the support of our community, and we hope you will become a part of this unique opportunity to bring a "legacy project", that 100 years from now can still be enjoyed.
History of the potential land parcel for the beautiful garde
The Original River Mill
In the late 1800's, the area now referred to as "The Confluence"- which is the merging of the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers, began as a Lumber Mill operation.
The Wastewater Treatment Facility
The old wastewater treatment facility was located on this property for over 60 years. This area, commonly known as "The Confluence"-where the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers meet, was originally built in the 1950's. It had several upgrades throughout the years with a significant improvement in the late 70's but was eventually demolished in 2019.
The new state-of-the-art wastewater treatment plant is now located in West Glenwood Springs along the I-70 corridor.
This parcel of land is owned by the city of Glenwood Springs and has gone through several different plans for re-development in the past few years. We feel that having a peaceful and beautiful Botanical Garden is the best option, not only to "heal;" the land, but also because of its proximity to our downtown community. Situated along the Rio Grande trail and within walking distance to Veltus and Two Rivers Park, captures the energetic flow of the area and gives space for our entire community to enjoy our magnificent river systems.
The Ute Indians considered this land parcel sacred, and we hope to not only seek their blessing for good fortune in the future but also dedicate a garden plot to honor their history.