Houghton Garden
Guidebook Section: Central
Location
Get here by MBTA: a 0.5 mile walk from Chestnut Hill Station, Green Line
Other maps and aerial photos:
Bing
Newton Assessor
Connects to: Webster Conservation Area
Overview
Here in Newton is a wild garden that’s 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
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.
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.
Houghton Garden Map
Features
Accessible Trails, Birding, Conservation Area, Cross Country Skiing, Farm or Garden, Historic Site, Pond, Woods Trail
Additional Information
Newton Assessor’s Map ID: 63016 0008A
Advocates & Caretakers:
Chestnut Hill Garden Club
PO Box 67442
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
