Houghton Garden
Overview
This wild garden is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its gracious paths, overhung by azalea and rhododendron, wind around a stream and lagoon-like pond. Water features were designed by Warren Manning, who formerly worked for the Olmsted studio. Uncommon migrating birds are seen here.
The alpine rock garden on a ledge overlooking Houghton Pond was one of the first of its kind. Especially lovely are the climbing hydrangea, the naturalized lily of the valley, the wood hyacinth, the umbrella pine, and other exotic evergreens.
Size: 10 acres    Longest Walk: 0.4 miles    Acquired: 1968
Maps
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Scan this code using the camera or QR code app on your smartphone for quick access to maps and other information on the property.
Get here by MBTA: a 0.5 mile walk from Chestnut Hill Station, Green Line
Other maps and aerial photos:
Connects to: Webster Conservation Area
GPS Enabled Trail Map
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Owner & Administrator Websites
Photo Gallery
First three photos shown here. Click a photo to view the complete slideshow or click here to browse the complete gallery.
History
1906
Garden started by Mrs. Clement S. Houghton, who lived in the Spanish mission style house at 152 Suffolk Road. Read a history of the land written from the perspective of Edwin Webster, a neighbor of Houghton.
1968
Garden was taken by eminent domain by Newton, after Chestnut Hill Neighborhood Association fought off an eminent-domain bid to develop the property for an art school.
1999
Garden listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
2000-2003
City of Newton rehabilitated the garden using funds from Massachusetts Historical Commission and the Department of Environmental Management.
Features
Accessible Trails, Birding, Conservation Area, Cross Country Skiing, Farm or Garden, Historic Site, MBTA Green Line, Pond, Vernal Pool, Woods Trail
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Additional Information
Newton Assessor’s Map ID: 63016 0008A
Advocates & Caretakers:
Friends of Houghton Garden, c/o Michele Hanss,  m.hanss@comcast.net
Chestnut Hill Garden Club PO Box 67442 Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Related Information:
Discover Historic Chestnut Hill brochure
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Report a Problem
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