Campus groundskeepers tend the plants in the renovated greenhouse. The second structure built on campus, the original greenhouse was considered essential to the Normal School for more than 40 years. [Rowan Magazine, Spring 2005]
To help instruct future teachers on classroom methods in science, Professor Sangree welcomed young Demonstration School students to the greenhouse for lessons as Normal School students observed. [Rowan Magazine, Spring 2005]
The Sangree Greenhouse, built near Bunce Hall in 1923, is used as a teaching laboratory for horticulture and zoology. Professor of science John B. Sangree employs it to teach his students an appreciation of nature, that they in turn will instill in their elementary school pupils. He uses his green thumb to grow plants for classroom, offices and campus landscapes.
By the ’90s, however, the structure falls into disrepair and faces demolition. In 1995, a group of employees, led by President James’ administrative assistant Judy Burger, spearheads the effort to save the greenhouse. A 35-person Greenhouse Restoration Committee sets to work to raise the $100,000 needed for renovations. While volunteers clean up debris, the committee sells cookbooks and plants, and organizes trips. Despite generous donations from alumni and hundreds of donors, their efforts fall short until a state allocation and University funds help them meet their goal. The greenhouse reopens in 2000.
Now the structure houses perennials and shelters annuals that will beautify the whole campus in borders, planters, ponds and beds.
