Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Historical Facts: Greenhouses


Lord and Burnham Greenhouse Ad


The Industrial Revolution brought about advances in glass, metal, and heating technologies that allowed for improved greenhouse construction. Following the Civil War, these glass houses became common additions to estates like Sonnenberg. Year-round, they provided the beautiful flowers, ferns, and exotic plants that were popular in the Victorian era.

By the late 19th century, the Lord & Burnham Company was one of the premier greenhouse manufacturers in the United States. Mary Clark Thompson commissioned the company to construct her new greenhouse complex in 1903.
Submitted by Cindy Hunt, Curator

Sonnenberg's Lord and Burnham Greenhouse Complex