Weekend Picks: Fountain Spotting

As summer starts to heat up we are drawn to the mesmerizing splish-splash of our many water features. Morris Arboretum has more than ten unique water features, some even dating back to the Estate Years. On particularly hot days even we are tempted to dip our toes in the cool, flowing water, but alas, wading in the fountains is not permitted! Download the Founding Treasures Tour Guide and see how many fountains you can spot this weekend.

Four Not-To-Be-Missed Fountains 

 

1. Step Fountain This water feature was built in 1916 facing the hilltop site of Compton. Lydia Morris commissioned the fountain in the Beaux Arts style with an imaginative use of water – popular in late Victorian landscapes in the Philadelphia area. Located in the English Park



2. Lydia's Seat In 1910, “Garden Steps, Wall & Seat” were built into the hillside at the north end of the Rose Garden.  The seat and stairs were a favorite garden approach from the Compton mansion to the mixed flower, kitchen and herb gardens that preceded the Rose Garden. Located in the northwest corner of the Rose Garden

3. The Long Fountain The creation of the Long Fountain was inspired by a trip the Morrises took to the Alhambra in Spain.  After the visit, John and Lydia were motivated to install a “Moorish” fountain, which was constructed in 1905. Located adjacent to the Pennock Garden

4. Key Fountain Built circa 1915, the Key Fountain combines design elements from the medieval palaces of Islamic Spain with the Victorian rock gardens of Adirondack America.  This adaptive mix of architectural and garden features is typical of eclectic Victorian gardens. Located in the western corner of the arboretum.