Volunteers at the Greenhouse!

Nestled in a corner of the Rockefeller Park Greenhouse is the Betty Ott Garden, a space created especially for our visually impaired guests.  By focusing on touch, smell, and sound, the garden invites everyone to experience nature intimately.  Guests are encouraged to touch textured plants, like "lamb’s ear," and immerse themselves in the invigorating scents of fresh herbs and blooms. However, maintaining this special space has been a challenge. Upkeep for the Garden relies heavily on charitable donations; unfortunately, over the years these have dwindled. Because of this, the Betty Ott Garden has faced both mechanical issues—such as fountain and audio system failures—and botanical setbacks. The Garden has also weathered acts of vandalism; notably, the Keller statue (pictured above) was stolen in 1974,  sparking a nine-month search that thankfully ended with its safe return.

There have been major overhauls; the last was spearheaded by the Women's City Club of Cleveland, with a re-dedication ceremony in 1992.  A plaque in the Garden acknowledges this generous effort. But now, 33 years later, it is time for comprehensive renovations.

Over time, the Betty Ott Garden has proven to be an invaluable Cleveland resource. Most significantly, it is freely accessible to those unable to pay the entry fees required at other gardens. It will take time, planning, and critical funding to rehabilitate the Garden. But it can once again become the space that Betty Ott envisioned: an immersive and accessible environment for people with visual impairments. With the financial support of our valued members, and the help of volunteers like CLEeastZTA, we are determined to make it happen. 

Donations towards the upkeep and enhancement of this much-needed space are deeply appreciated.