Celebrating the 250th - A Letter from our Executive Director

As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, the founders of Wellfield Botanic Gardens were recently invited to reflect on the Gardens’ founding just 20 years ago. Together, they see incredible parallels between the birth of our nation and the creation of Wellfield. Both began with optimism, a shared purpose, and the belief that ordinary citizens working together can accomplish extraordinary things—whether establishing a new nation or creating a botanic garden in Elkhart, Indiana.

Their hope for the future is that this 20-year-old vision continues to inspire community engagement, cultivate beautiful gardens, expand educational opportunities, and grow into a botanic garden of world-class quality.

I'd say we're well on our way.

What began as the dream of transforming Elkhart's municipal well field into a public garden has become a lasting gift to the community—one intended to enrich lives for many more generations.

From the very beginning, the founders envisioned more than a collection of beautiful gardens. They imagined a place where people could gather, learn, and build community connections. Volunteers, local contractors, generous donors, supportive organizations, and many community members embraced that vision, helping create what has become a nationally recognized, homegrown destination. If you haven't heard the exciting news, Wellfield was recently recognized as the #1 Botanic Garden in the United States—an incredible honor made possible by the support of this community.

As I continue to learn from the American community of botanic gardens, I am continually impressed by Wellfield's deep connection to its community. Within our 36 acres, visitors find beauty, peace, and healing - exactly what gardens are meant to offer. New family traditions begin here every season, and together we are continuing to grow a place that enriches the lives of so many today. I welcome you for a visit over this very special moment in our nation’s history.

-Kurt Dreisilker

Robert & Peggy Weed Executive Director