A Visit to the Fountain and Water Gardens of Longwood Gardens

A Visit to the Main Fountain Garden at Longwood Gardens

Longwood Gardens, located in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, is renowned for its breathtaking display of horticultural artistry, and its fountains are a central highlight of this natural paradise. The fountains of Longwood Gardens are not just decorative elements but rather integral components of a larger, grand vision that harmonizes water, light, and space into an enchanting spectacle. They embody the meticulous craftsmanship and creative vision that have come to define Longwood Gardens as a premier destination for garden enthusiasts and visitors seeking tranquility and inspiration.

Fountain Pool Looking Back at the Italian Fountain Garden and Main Fountain

Glorious Main Fountain Show

Main Fountain Side View

Glorious Main Fountain Show

Main Garden Fountain from Italian Fountain Garden

Fountain Pool Alley

Fountain Pool Alley in Motion

Stairs Over Fountain Pool

Patio Looking Back at Main Fountain

A History of the Fountains at Longwood Gardens

The history of the fountains at Longwood Gardens is deeply intertwined with the legacy of its founder, Pierre S. du Pont, a wealthy industrialist and philanthropist with a passion for horticulture. Beginning in the early 20th century, du Pont envisioned transforming the estate into a premier garden showcasing both botanical beauty and sophisticated engineering. One of his most ambitious projects was the creation of the fountains, which began to take shape in the 1920s. Du Pont's vision was to create a dynamic interplay between water and landscape, resulting in a series of fountains that would captivate audiences with their elegance and innovation.

Main Fountain Garden

Among the most notable features of Longwood Gardens' fountains is the Main Fountain Garden, a 6.5-acre expanse that serves as the centerpiece of the estate. This garden is home to the largest and most elaborate fountain display in the United States. The Main Fountain Garden boasts over 1,000 individual jets and is renowned for its orchestrated water shows that combine movement, light, and music. The fountain system is designed to create an ever-changing visual spectacle, with water dancing and soaring in synchronized patterns to classical and contemporary compositions. This mesmerizing display is not just a tribute to the art of fountain design but also a testament to the technological ingenuity of the era in which it was constructed.

Restoration of Main Fountain Garden

The Main Fountain Garden underwent a significant restoration and enhancement project in 2014, which updated the infrastructure and technology while preserving the original charm and grandeur. The restoration aimed to enhance the visitor experience with improved lighting, sound systems, and water features that ensure a vibrant and immersive experience. The result is a modern marvel that retains its historical essence while embracing contemporary advancements.

Another remarkable aspect of Longwood Gardens' fountains is the Italian Water Garden, a serene space inspired by Italian Renaissance design. This garden features a series of elegant, tiered fountains that evoke the classical beauty of European water gardens. The design emphasizes symmetry and balance, with cascading water flows and ornate sculptural elements that reflect the influence of Italian garden aesthetics. This garden provides a more contemplative and peaceful experience, contrasting with the dynamic energy of the Main Fountain Garden.

Italian Garden Fountain Colonnade

Italian Garden Fountain Town Square

Cascading Italian Garden Fountain

Italian Garden Fountain Colonnade Side View

Beautifully Planted Cistern, Water Garden, in the Italian Fountain Garden

Italian Garden Fountain Colonnade Side View (From Center)

Beautifully Planted Cistern, Water Garden, in the Italian Fountain Garden (Close Up)

Cascading Italian Garden Fountain

Italian Garden Fountain (Close Up)

Italian Garden Fountain (with Beth)

Italian Colonnade Fountains (Close Up)

Classic Urn with Plinth in Italian Fountain Garden

Main Garden Fountain Show from the Italian Fountain Garden

Planted Cistern in the Italian Fountain Garden Colonnade Alley

Cascading Wall Fountain in the Italian Fountain Garden Colonnade Alley (Close Up)

The fountains of Longwood Gardens also extend beyond these central features to include a variety of smaller, intricately designed water elements scattered throughout the estate. These include the dramatic, seasonal displays in the Peirce-du Pont House gardens and the tranquil, reflective pools in the Meadow Garden. Each fountain serves a unique purpose, contributing to the overall ambiance and thematic expression of the garden areas they adorn.

Fountains of Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

In summary, the fountains of Longwood Gardens are far more than mere ornamental features; they are a testament to the vision and craftsmanship of Pierre S. du Pont and the legacy of excellence in horticultural design. From the grand spectacle of the Main Fountain Garden to the serene elegance of the Italian Water Garden, each fountain contributes to the rich tapestry of experiences that make Longwood Gardens a cherished destination for visitors from around the world.

Find your own garden inspiration in our HenFeathers Fountain Collection