Slayton Arboretum

Hillsdale, Michigan, United States

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Slayton Arboretum in Hillsdale, Michigan, officially began in 1922 when George A. Slayton and his wife donated fourteen acres to Hillsdale College to commemorate their 50th graduation anniversary, though the land had been used by students since the 1860s when it was known as Van Valkenburgh’s cow pasture.

The arboretum was envisioned as an outdoor laboratory and botanical garden for education and research by Dr. Bertram A. Barber, a Hillsdale biology professor, who helped develop the site with students and volunteers. Key features added over time include a pond, rock garden, waterfall, stone field station, gazebo, and amphitheater built from local stone, showcasing skilled craftsmanship.

The arboretum boasts diverse tree and shrub species such as conifers, magnolias, witch hazel, and native hardwoods, and the grounds are maintained with continuous restoration efforts to preserve its natural beauty and ecological health. It hosts community events, environmental education programs, and supports ongoing volunteer involvement, serving as a cherished green space for both the college and the wider community.