Louisburg College's de Hart Botanical Gardens

North Carolina, United States

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De Hart Botanical Gardens, part of Louisburg College in North Carolina, is situated on the historic site of the former Myrtle Timberlake Plantation estate, which has roots dating back to a land grant by Charles II of England in the late 17th century.

The gardens encompass approximately 90 acres of native woodlands, wildflower meadows, creeks, and ponds. The estate was owned in the late 1700s by Richard Timberlake and his wife Mary. In recent years, the gardens have been developed as a public space for education, community gatherings, and outdoor recreation, including hiking, picnicking, weddings, and concerts.

The gardens were a gift from benefactor Allen DeHart, who in 2012 transferred ownership of the 172-acre DeHart Botanical Gardens in Patrick County to Louisburg College. The gardens serve as an educational resource and are designed to showcase native and exotic plant species, including rare trees, vibrant flowers, and themed gardens that highlight the region's natural beauty.