The Planning Vision

Many people have helped create Longwood Gardens, but one individual—Pierre S. du Pont (1870-1954), industrialist, conservationist, farmer, designer, engineer, impresario, and philanthropist—made the most significant contribution.  Mr. du Pont's commitment to promoting the art and science of horticulture remains strong today as Longwood's Trustees and Staff* strive to continue his legacy and lead Longwood into the future.  

The Planning Vision: Preserving the Past, Building the Future defines and articulates Longwood's identity and purpose. It represents a philosophical framework to guide the Trustees and Staff in continuing Mr. du Pont's vision. In short, the plan presents a set of ideals to which Longwood commits its efforts and resources.

The Public Summary is a companion piece to the Planning Vision/Staff Version. The Public Summary offers an in-depth overview of the full document and can be purchased in the Gardens Shop in the Visitor Center.

The planning process draws upon the example Mr. du Pont set, one of excellence and dynamic respect for a living heritage. Both the Planning Vision document and the planning process itself serve as instruments of communication. Planning involves Trustees, staff, neighbors, visitors, colleagues, and many others, in creating mutual goals based on what Longwood has been in the past and what Longwood is today. The exciting challenge involves accommodating change while preserving Longwood's tradition of excellence.

The long-range master plan begins with the positive vision of Longwood Gardens as the world's premier horticultural display and emphasizes an evolutionary and open-ended process that embraces the future. The framework is flexible and will continue to change over time. The Planning Vision is a major milestone in Longwood Gardens' ongoing master planning process; it outlines possibility and potential. Trustees and staff are committed to pursuing planning as an integral component of the gardens' culture.

This document presents an outline for future study and action based on the Longwood Gardens' mission and principles. Each section of the Planning Vision provides a guide for understanding and acting upon issues critical to Longwood Gardens' future. Trustees and staff will use the plan to coordinate and prioritize organizational needs and activities. They will direct and pace implementation of the Planning Vision based on the organization's ability to continue improving the condition of the physical plant, building an exceptionally talented and knowledgeable staff, and securing the Gardens' financial resources. This vision is both compelling and exciting, demonstrating Longwood's growth and maturation as a charitable institution serving the public good.

*Staff refers collectively to all Longwood full and part-time employees, individuals participating in Student Programs, and volunteers.