Rooted in a historic longleaf pine forest, Mobile Botanical Gardens has grown into a living classroom for conservation, education, and community.
Mission Statment
Mobile Botanical Gardens provides experiences that help visitors of all ages appreciate and benefit from our unique Gulf Coast environment. The Gardens serve as a living classroom for residents and visitors alike. By providing a sense of place, we endeavor to instill passion for nature, and to preserve, protect, and present the unique plants of the Gulf Coast region.
Beginnings and Beyond
In 1974 the South Alabama Horticultural & Botanical Society Inc. agreed to develop and maintain the current 100 acres as Mobile Botanical Gardens, and leased the land from the City of Mobile. Prior to European settlement in the 1700’s, the land on which Mobile Botanical Gardens stands today was part of a vast longleaf pine forest. Because most of this land was logged in the early 1900’s, our 35-acre conservation forest area is considered second generation growth. The lake in Langan Park on the other side of Museum Drive was once Mobile’s water supply until the 1950’s, and the acreage surrounding the lake was restricted from development. As a private, non-profit organization, the Mobile Botanical Gardens welcomes your support. Please help us continue our mission of education and conservation by paying admission or by becoming a member.
Founding Members
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Tom Dodd Jr. – President and General Manager, Tom Dodd Nursery
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Harry F. (Pat) Ryan – Assissant Landscape Engineer, Bellingrath Gardens
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Max P. McGill – Landscape Engineer, Spring Hill College
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John H. Bowen – Landscape Architect, U.S. Army Engineers
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Ira V. Matthews – Assistant to the President, Mobile College
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Floyd T. McConnell – General Counsel, Mobile Engineer District, U.S. Army Engineers
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Dr. Michel G. LeLong – Professor of Botany, University of South Alabama
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Edward J. (Bud) Horder – Ornamental Horticulturist, U.S. Army Engineers
