Stoneleigh garden expands to 52 acres after surviving eminent-domain threat

Two historic Pennsylvania landscapes that were separated by a fence and property line for over a century are now set to merge. Stoneleigh, a former private estate, has grown from 42 acres to 52 after acquiring most of the adjoining Oakwell property. The addition reconnects spaces that were divided nearly a century ago, offering a larger area for gardens, education, and public enjoyment, according to the Natural Lands website.

The expansion marks an unusual second chapter for Stoneleigh, which became a free public garden in 2016 after the family that owned the estate donated it to Natural Lands. The 10-acre addition is most of the 13-acre Oakwell property that was carved away in the 1920s and 1930s. Visitors can already see mature trees, historic architecture, and remnants of previous garden designs across the former property line.

The reunification will restore the original scale of the landscape while preserving the distinct histories of each side. The Lower Merion School District initially purchased the Oakwell property in 2018 to build athletic fields, but public opposition led to a compromise. Natural Lands will purchase 10 acres to add to Stoneleigh, while the remaining three will go to the Wyncote Foundation for restoration and preservation, including Oakwell Hall.

The expanded garden will take years to prepare and will include new educational programming, visitor amenities, and garden features while respecting the area's history. The story of Oakwell's preservation highlights the power of community engagement in safeguarding historic landscapes, ensuring the public garden remains a free space for all to enjoy, with the historic mansion dedicated to preservation for future generations.