Friends of the Greenhouse

Friends of the Greenhouse promotes and supports the Olcott Park Greenhouse in Virginia, MN (intersection of N 9th Ave W and 7th St N).

The Olcott Park Greenhouse is a unique part of Iron Range history.  It was built in the prosperous years prior to World War II when Olcott Park also contained a zoo with a variety of wild animals, including monkeys, black bear, deer, elk, mountain sheep and bison.  Consisting of three connected greenhouses, the Olcott Park Greenhouse was built in the 1920s and 30s. The smaller north and south greenhouses were used to raise bedding plants for flowerbeds throughout the city. The largest of the three greenhouses is home to a tropical botanical garden. As the only tropical botanical garden in Northern Minnesota it contains hundreds of plants ranging from small cacti to large tropical palms. 

Since the prosperous years of the early 1900s are long past, there have been many changes in Olcott Park.  There is no longer a zoo at the park, but the Olcott Park Greenhouse and its botanical garden remain.  Budget cuts, however, have made it difficult to maintain the aging building.  Friends of the Greenhouse is determined to help ensure the long-term sustainability of this wonderful, historic facility.  Creative use of the two smaller greenhouses may help generate revenue for the greenhouse. 

Recent renovations are giving a facelift to the greenhouse!  These renovations are making the greenhouse more energy efficient and structurally sound.  In addition to these benefits, the renovations will make the greenhouse more handicap accessible and create more open, usable space for visitors. 

We are hoping to purchase some small tables and chairs for visitors to be able spend more time enjoying the greenhouse, and hopefully one day we will also have wifi service as well!  Other items on our wish list include a light up 'Open' sign, a secure donation box, specialty plants, and a laminator.

Friends of the Greenhouse is excited to have a new beginning for the Olcott Park Greenhouse!  Your donation will help us in our efforts to help maintain the Olcott Park Greenhouse for future generations to come.  All donation amounts are greatly appreciated.  Thank you!