Hadwen Arboretum facts for kids
The Hadwen Arboretum is a beautiful forest in Worcester, Massachusetts. It covers about 26 acres, which is like 20 football fields! You can find its main entrance at May and Lovell Street. This special place is home to many old and important trees. These "heritage trees" were first planted by a man named Obadiah Hadwen. Today, Clark University owns and takes care of the arboretum.
A long walking path called the East-West Trail goes right through the Hadwen Arboretum. This trail is 14 miles long and connects 20 green spaces in Worcester. There is also a community garden here. It is looked after by the Regional Environmental Council.
History of the Hadwen Arboretum
The Hadwen Arboretum is named after its former owner, Obadiah Hadwen. He was very involved in Worcester's parks. He also led the Worcester County Horticultural Society. Mr. Hadwen bought this land in 1843. He built a farmhouse and sold vegetables and milk. You can still see the old foundation of his farmhouse today. It is along the Magnolia Trail.
When Obadiah Hadwen passed away in 1907, he left his land to Clark University. He wanted the land to be used forever. His goal was to teach students about farming, history, and trees. Clark University thought about selling the land. But in 1985, they decided to keep it.
For many years, the arboretum was not well cared for. It became a bit wild and unwelcoming. But things changed in 2019! City officials, Clark University staff, and students started working together. They began to make the arboretum better for everyone.
Now, the space looks completely different. New trails have been built. There are new signs to help visitors. An outdoor classroom was also added. Clark University has worked with the Worcester Tree Initiative. They have planted new trees and shrubs. This is the first time new plants have been added in over 50 years!
Ecology of the Hadwen Arboretum
Obadiah Hadwen planted more than a hundred different types of trees. Some of these trees are still growing there today. A few of these tree types are rare in New England. These include the Cucumbertree Magnolia, Kentucky yellowwood, and Umbrella Pine.
In the spring, you can see beautiful wildflowers. Blue squill is one example. However, some plants that don't belong there have grown quickly. These "invasive species" can harm the many different plants that naturally live in the arboretum.
