Lasdon Park, Arboretum & Veterans Memorial Announces New Name
Lasdon Park, Arboretum & Veterans Memorial in Katonah has changed its name to Lasdon Public Gardens (LPG) and Veterans Memorial. The modification was decided by the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC), the Lasdon family, and the Friends of Lasdon Park & Arboretum.
“Public Gardens” clearly defines the beauty and function of Lasdon as an institution that maintains plants to provide them as resources for public education and enjoyment, in addition to scientific research and conservation. Lasdon Public Gardens has 30 gardens and collections throughout its 234 acres, including but not limited to, the Veterans Museum, Trail of Honor, Memorial Garden, Lilac Collections, and Conservatory.
County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Lasdon has long been a place of learning, reflection and beauty. By renaming the park to Lasdon Public Gardens and Veterans Memorial, we’re better aligning its identity with its mission. This change places Lasdon among the region’s distinguished public gardens, a destination for education, horticulture and peaceful enjoyment. I want to thank all those whose hard work and dedication made this transition possible. Their efforts ensure Lasdon will continue to flourish for generations to come.”
Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, Kathy O’Connor said: “Lasdon boasts designed landscapes, educational programs and provides a respite for visitors to connect with nature in a meaningful way through its gardens and exhibits. This new name reflects that purpose and highlights Lasdon’s role as one of Westchester’s most treasured destinations.”
Michele Metsch, William and Mildred Lasdon’s great granddaughter and representative of the Lasdon Family Foundation said: “The Lasdon family is excited for the reinvigoration of our family home as Lasdon Public Gardens. Mildred and William Lasdon would be so proud of the preservation of open space and the vast array of programs for the community. We are so thrilled that the property will continue to be enjoyed now and in the future as a shining gem in the County parks system.”
Laura Blau, President of Friends of Lasdon said: “Lasdon Public Gardens is representative of our mission to be a sanctuary where plants inspire, education grows, and the beauty of nature is celebrated. 30 gardens and collections invite visitors of all ages to explore, learn, and reflect. Interwoven into the heart of every path, planting, and program is a living memorial honoring Westchester County’s veterans. Lasdon Public Gardens is everyone’s garden.”
The rebranding comes at a time when significant County Capital Project funding recently restored Lasdon’s Main House. A current County Site Work project broke ground in August and will enhance the visitor’s experience by upgrading pathways and facilities.
LPG is an institutional member of the American Public Gardens Association, the headquarters for the 9th District Federated Garden Clubs of NYS. It also holds memberships to the American Horticultural Society’s Reciprocal Garden Network, the Philadelphia Horticultural Society, Metro Hort Group, and the NYS Turf and Landscape Association.
As partners of Lasdon’s public horticultural center, Friends of Lasdon and the Lasdon Family will collaborate with PRC in the rebranding effort through education and by continuing to raise funds to support annual programming and and capital expenses that include a future Welcome and Education Center.
Lasdon Public Gardens is located at 2610 NY Route 35 in Katonah.