In 1948, there were 7.7 acres of playground & undeveloped land surrounding Kitzmiller School. Dr. Melvin Brown (co-author of Woody Plants of Maryland) and his students began turning the area into a Botanical Garden. About 2 acres were cleared of brush and undesirable plants. Many species were retained and labeled, while others were brought in and planted. Walks and fireplaces were constructed.
For many years, a continuous effort was made to collect every available species of native flowers, shrubs and trees as well as rare and ornamental varieties. In the fall of 1950, the biology class published a 40 page booklet containing a list of over 600 plants that could be found in the Garden. This year marks the 75th Anniversary of the Garden. The Town of Kitzmiller received a Mountain Maryland Gateway to the West Heritage Area mini grant to purchase new arboretum signs and develop promotional brochures and posters for the Garden. A 75th Anniversary Celebration was held on May 6th and two new specimen trees (red spruce and river birch) were planted.
The Garrett County Forestry Board and students from the Garrett College Natural Resources and Wildlife Technology program assisted with updating the tree inventory in the Garden. Several trees were nominated for the Big Tree program, with some becoming new county and state champions, including this impressive MD State Champion red pine. A total of 11 new specimen trees were planted this year (including a Liberty Tree near the ballfield), and the Town has been able to expand wi-fi coverage throughout the park!
If you would like to visit, the Garden is located across from the old Kitzmiller School (288 West Main Street).
