Bartram's Garden is the oldest botanical garden in America, founded by John Bartram in 1728 on 8 acres of land. It now encompasses 46 acres of land, and was made a National Historic Landmark in 1960. Today, the home and gardens are used as museum.
In the 18th century, the property contained a Palladian-style home owned by John Bartram and expanded upon by his family in the second half of the 18th century. To the east of the house are several greenhouses and outbuildings, in addition to the expansive gardens.
History[]
In 1728, John Bartram acquired a large amount of farmland in what was then on the edge of Philadelphia. He laid out extensive gardens on the property, and cultivated a variety of specimens. He particularly specialized in American varieties.
John Bartram's clients were often wealthy European or American colonists, and in 1765 he became Royal Botanist to King George III. This reputation allowed him to further expand his stock, and at its peak Bartram's garden held 10 different greenhouses.
During the American Revolutionary War, the Bartrams continued supplying samples to wealthy and influential clients in North America and abroad, including figures like George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.
As Bartram grew older, his children, particularly John Jr. and William Bartram, played a large part in running the family business. John Jr., William Bartram, and later John Jr.'s daughter Ann Carr Bartram, took over after John Sr.'s death.
Outlander series[]
Written in My Own Heart's Blood[]
Claire Fraser was a frequent visitor to the Bartrams when she and Jamie stayed in Philadelphia, even borrowing transportation from them. She was on good terms with both John Jr. and William, as well as at least one of their sisters.
Residents[]
- John Bartram (1699–1777)
- John Bartram Jr. (1743–1812)
- William Bartram (1739–1823)
Location[]
Bartram's Garden is situated on the Schuylkill River, 4.5 miles from the Philadelphia's city center, in what is now Kingsessing.