Welcome to the Leila Arboretum Society, a verdant oasis in the historic city of Battle Creek, Michigan. This 72-acre arboretum is a testament to the vision and generosity of Leila Post Montgomery, who transformed this space into a hub of culture and nature. In 1922, Leila, the widow of C.W. Post—founder of Post Consumer Goods—purchased this land and gifted it to the city, envisioning a place where beauty and learning could flourish side by side.
The arboretum officially opened to the public in 1924, following the landscape design by T. Clifton Shepherd, which laid the foundation for what you see today. Over the decades, the Leila Arboretum has evolved into more than just a collection of trees. It is a living museum that combines natural beauty with educational opportunities. A notable feature is the ‘Fantasy Forest’, a captivating area where dead ash trees have been transformed into stunning sculptures by local artists, each telling its own unique story.
Throughout its history, the arboretum has been a place of community gathering and celebration. It hosts various events and educational programs that engage visitors of all ages, from gardening workshops to cultural festivals. The arboretum’s role in the community has been supported by the Miller Foundation, which made a significant grant in 2000 to ensure its continued development and maintenance.
As you explore, you might imagine the many notable figures who have walked these paths. Battle Creek itself is steeped in history, known as ‘Cereal City’ and the home of the Kellogg brothers, who revolutionized breakfast with their invention of cereal. The city was also an important stop on the Underground Railroad and the home of Sojourner Truth, the renowned abolitionist and women’s rights activist.
So, whether you’re here to enjoy the tranquil natural setting or to learn more about the flora, the Leila Arboretum offers a unique glimpse into both the past and the present, bridging nature with history and community spirit.
