At the Gardens
Smith-Gilbert Gardens has something for everyone: beautiful gardens, intriguing outdoor sculptures, and the historic Hiram Butler House. Simply roll-over the map to learn more about the Gardens.
Hiram Butler House
This beautiful home dates back to 1880 when Hiram A. Butler bought 160 acres and began construction of the home, now the centerpiece of Smith-Gilbert Gardens.
Perennial Garden
The diversity of this horticultural experience had its seeds in the varied interests of Gilbert and Smith. Dr. Gilbert discovered his focus was with trees, shrubs, and other woody plants.
Knowlton Meadow
Inviting the visitor into the Woodland Entrance, this open space features two important sculptures.
Conifer Garden
Created in 2002, this area of the Garden features conifers that are suitable for the Southeastern U.S. Most are dwarf or slow growing making them desirable for use in the smaller lots of today’s homes.
Woodland Walk Entrance
A few feet into this shady area reveals the presence of a Hosta collection donated by the Georgia Hosta Society.
The Mulberry Bowl and Respite Sculpture
Originally imported into this country for the silk trade, Mulberry trees have escaped into the environment and naturalized.
Japanese Maple Grove
While the Garden has many Japanese Maple specimens scattered throughout the grounds, this section has a wonderful concentration of these smaller growing trees.
Cedar Field and Rose Garden
A handsome Eastern Red Cedar stands as a sentinel in the middle of this grassy expanse, but he is not lonely. Surrounded by lovingly cared for roses, visitors will appreciate their fragrance and beauty from May through late summer.
Camellia Garden
Proceeding further on the trail, take the gray slate path to your left and enter our newest addition. Given in memory of the donor’s parents, these camellias are at their best during the fall and winter months.
Garden Birthplace
Heading towards the Carriage House, observe “Woman and Dog” by Marcia Pels. At this point, you are at the heart of the Garden. Shaded by an ample pecan tree, Smith and Gilbert began their labor of love here.
Rock Garden
Moving by Linda Cunningham’s “Transformation,” stroll into Richard Smith’s favorite spot. In developing this woodland setting, Smith and Gilbert were inspired by the Royal Botanical Garden in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Crossing to Safety
Allow Marcia Pel’s “Bird in Hand” to entice your feet over the narrow stone bridge and to the other side of the water feature. Travel upslope through a native understory of oak and hickory.
Bonsai Garden
A favorite among visitors and staff, our bonsai collection is a particular source of pride. Replicating small scaled scenes, these dwarfed trees are a delight and wonder to all.
Plant-A-Row
A dedicated group of volunteers utilize their strong backs and green thumbs to grow a variety of fresh vegetables for donation.
Plant Sale Area
In the gazebo across from the koi pond at the back of the house is an area devoted to selling some of the plants you will find growing at SGG.
Magnolia Gate & 2 Benches
David Wall, 1980
Transformation
Tom Suomalainen, 1990
Mushrooms
David Wall, 1980
The Great Oracle
Jon Isherwood, 1998-2000
Untitled
Grace Knowlton, 1991
Around the Corner
Carl Andre Davidt, 1981
Dead Man
Kenneth Greenleaf, 1989
Two Indian Figures
John Payne, 1981
Untitled
Gabriel Halevi, 1986
Respite
Frank Creech, 1980
Bust
Howard Taikeff, 1985
Man in the Moon
Carl Andre Davidt, 1981
Untitled
Edward Chrisman, 1984
Clary Lake
Kenneth Greenleaf, 1989
Unda
John Van Alstine, 1995
Antiope
Kenneth Greenleaf, 1987
Untitled
Edward Chrisman, 1986
Las Mesas Tree
Jesus Bautista Moroles, 1986-87
Untitled
Kevin Radu, 1990
Woman and Dog
Marsh Pels, 1986
Forest #9
Raul Farco, 1989
Untitled
Kenneth Greenleaf, 1990
Harlequin
Norman Schulman, 1981
Transformations
Linda Cunningham, 1994
East is East
Kenneth Greenleaf, 1984
Bird in Hand
Marsh Pels, 1982-84
Pedraza
Raul Farco, 1989
Cast from 55
Howard Ben Tré, 1985
Untitled
Manual Martin, 1986
Ts-ung Tube XXII
Jon Hudson, 1985
Photographers
