The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum held a dedication and ribbon cutting for their new Welcome Center today.

The Botanical Garden celebration included Gov. Bill Haslam, Mayor Madeline Rogero, Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett, past and current City Council members, former city and county Mayors, county commissioners, state legislators and officials, and community and faith leaders.

The Botanical Garden dates back to 1786, when David W. Howell was granted the tract of land by North Carolina for his service during the American Revolutionary War. Ten years before Tennessee statehood, Howell planted an orchard and began growing fruits and vegetables for sale to local families. This small farm would become one of the oldest continually operating businesses in the history of Knox County. Many generations have cherished the Howell family nurseries’ products and the expertise and service of the owners and staff.

The City of Knoxville is providing $250,000 for the rehabilitation of the former mule barn as part of a Center for Urban Agriculture expansion. Work should start later this year. Anticipate expanded community education, a farmers' market and eventually a community teaching kitchen.

To learn more about the Knoxville Botanical Garden & Arboretum please visit http://knoxgarden.org.



Photos by Traci K. McDonell / City of Knoxville