Discovering the Cleveland Cultural Gardens: A Journey Through History and Diversity
Cleveland, Ohio, is known for its diverse communities and rich cultural history. From the famous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to the Cleveland Museum of Art, the city offers a plethora of options for tourists and residents alike. However, there’s one gem of Cleveland that remains relatively undiscovered: the Cleveland Cultural Gardens.
Introduction
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens is an exquisite collection of 33 landscaped gardens that represents different ethnicities and cultures. Each garden is a tribute to the significant contributions made by the respective community to society. It’s a unique concept that started in 1916 with the creation of the first garden, the Shakespeare Garden. Over the next hundred years, the gardens evolved to represent more than 30 different nationalities and cultures. An afternoon at the Cleveland Cultural Gardens is a journey through history and diversity.
History
The idea of creating a garden for each nationality was first proposed by a local horticulturist named John D. Rockefeller Jr. and a prominent local businessman, Leo Weidenthal, in 1915. They were both members of the Cleveland Cultural Federation, a group of visionaries committed to the idea of promoting multiculturalism and education. The concept was groundbreaking because it aimed to make people understand and appreciate various cultures, communities, and traditions.
The first garden, the Shakespeare Garden, was created in 1916. It was a tribute to the famous playwright and featured a bronze statue of him. The garden was designed by the legendary landscape architect Ernest Bowditch and quickly became a popular attraction. Over the years, more gardens were added, and each one represented a unique culture.
Diversity
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens is a love letter to diversity. The gardens are a symbol of different cultures coming together to celebrate their heritage and traditions. Visitors can take a stroll through the Italian Garden and admire the sculptures or marvel at the serene Japanese Garden. The Lithuanian Garden features a traditional folk art sculpture, while the Hebrew Garden has a magnificent menorah. The African American Garden has two sculptures dedicated to Martin Luther King Jr. and Barack Obama, respectively.
The gardens are a beautiful example of how different cultures can coexist and appreciate each other. Spending an afternoon at the gardens is a great way to learn about cultures and customs that might be different from one’s own. It provides an opportunity to broaden one’s horizons and gain a deeper understanding of the world.
Conclusion
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens is a remarkable place that every resident and tourist should visit. It’s a tribute to the city’s cultural diversity and a celebration of its rich history. The gardens are an excellent way to learn more about different cultures, appreciate their customs and values and promote multiculturalism. A visit to the Cleveland Cultural Gardens is a journey through history and diversity that will leave an indelible impression. It’s an experience that’s not to be missed!
