The Irwin Home and Gardens

Located in the historic downtown, the Irwin Gardens are a favorite attraction for Columbus residents and visitors. Built in 1910, they were created to complement the Irwin Home, which was completed in 1864. The grounds were designed after a garden in Pompeii, Italy.

The resident horticulturist and his crew tend to the many flowers and plants that change with the seasons. The gardens, mansion, greenhouses, and the gardener’s cottage, which is located at the north edge of the property, occupy a city block.

Kids love the gardens, because they are home to numerous animal sculptures. A wild boar, bear, ram, and dolphin decorate a fountain in front of the Summer House, while turtles spout water into the small, round ponds in the main area. The bronze frogs and heron lounge on a birdbath in the Frog Garden, having taken up residence in 1928 after traveling all the way from Florence, Italy!

A large, bronze elephant is the focus of the main part of the garden. The original elephant, which was imported from Japan, was bought at the St. Louis Exposition in 1904. Nearly thirty years later, the Golden Foundry of Columbus recast the elephant that is seen today.

There are many surprise “cubbyholes” in the gardens, and it’s fun to climb the steps to the Summer House and enjoy the view of the Irwin Home. Near the center of the property, a sundial shows the time of day, but don’t be in a hurry. There are many benches on which to rest as you listen to the birds and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Although the gardens are privately owned, they are open to the public on weekends in the spring, summer, and fall. Check for the exact times and dates, and learn more about our noted buildings and their architects at the Columbus Visitors Center.

Click on the small images to see full size pictures from the Irwin Gardens.

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