Van Vleck House & Gardens originated as a
private home more than 140 years ago. Three generations
of the
Van Vleck family lived on the 5.8 acre property and developed
the grounds throughout the past century. The garden's evolution
over the decades produced a strong representation of ericaceous
plants, with rhododendrons and azaleas being particular
favorites. Today, the Van Vleck property provides an excellent
example of the large homes built in this New York City suburb
during the late 1800s.
The main house that now graces the Van Vleck grounds was
designed and built in 1916 by Joseph Van Vleck, Jr. It recalls
the classic architectural style of a Mediterranean villa. Joseph
built it for his brother Charles who lived there
until his death in 1923.
In 1939 Howard, Joseph Jr.'s son, took up residence
in the home with his wife Harriet (Betty) Tomlinson.
They raised their four children, Anne, Carolyn,
Howard, and Roy here. |
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Howard Van
Vleck followed in his father's footsteps and pursued
a degree in architecture and a passion in the arts
and horticulture. He graduated from the School of
Architecture at Columbia University but left the
professional field in 1930 to pursue his interest in
painting and gardening full time. A lasting piece of
his legacy are the hybridized rhododendrons he
creating as he strode to create a clear,
yellow-flowering variety.
A number of his hybrids survive as special elements
in the garden and several have been registered and
named in memory of Van Vleck family members |
In
1993, the heirs of Howard Van Vleck placed the property in the
hands of
The Montclair Foundation.
This community foundation transformed the house into a
center for non-profits. The offices of several New Jersey
foundations reside on the second floor and use of the ground
floor is restricted to non-profit organizations for
meetings, seminars, receptions, and fundraisers.
Restoration and stabilization of the gardens is under the
direction of a full-time Director. Interpretive and educational
programs, volunteer opportunities, and student activities
reflect an on-going commitment to horticultural study and
outreach to the community.
Visitors are invited to enjoy the beauty of the gardens
throughout the entire year, not only in Spring, Summer, and Fall.
In Winter stop by to enjoy the architecture of the trees and the
many textures in the garden. You will be surprised at what you
will find.
Van Vleck House and Gardens is supported through its Friends
program, fundraisers and donations. Please become a Friend
today, or consider a larger gift to help grow our endowment.
Either way, you will help support this important community
resource to Montclair and the surrounding communities.
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