Histroy of the Krohn Bonsai Collection

Krohn Bonsai Collection

A collaborative of the Cincinnati Park Board and The Bonsai Society of Greater Cincinnati
Krohn Conservatory, Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

There is no written record of when the idea of a permanent bonsai exhibit at the Krohn Conservatory first occurred.  However, there is no doubt the seed germinated in the fertile mind of John Carroll.  It is correctly presumed that this seed was planted via visitation to similar exhibits at botanical gardens and horticultural facilities in other communities.  Early-on, John enlisted the help of Ken Moore to convince Ruth Ann Spears, Krohn General Manager, and the Cincinnati Park Board that a first-class permanent bonsai exhibit would enhance public enjoyment and a National reputation for the Krohn Conservatory.  Through persistence and determination, John & Ken sold the concept that would be an asset to the community, the tri-state, and the nation.

In October of 1996, the Bonsai Society of Greater Cincinnati was invited by the Cincinnati Park Board to establish a permanent Bonsai Collection of tropical trees in the Krohn Conservatory.  Within 10 days, temporary stands and accessories were assembled.  25 bonsai trees (loaned or donated) by groups and individuals.  Care is provided by the Krohn Staff and the Bonsai Society Volunteers.  The John Carroll Bonsai Gallery was formally dedicated in a ceremony March 14, 2003

Improvements were made with support from the Park Board money donated by groups, individuals, Society members and other Bonsai enthusiasts.  Due to a move in the Spring of 1988 from the regular Bonsai Collection room, the collection was relocated to an outdoor garden where there are now both tropical and hardy trees.  In the fall, the tropical trees were moved back to their previous location.

The Krohn Bonsai Collection has gained local, regional, and national recognition and is gaining a reputation as one of the twenty best public bonsai collections in the U.S. and Canada.  It is a stopping point for many tour and education groups.  Both children and adults consider it as one of the outstanding attractions at the Krohn.

Through the continued collaborative efforts by the two organizations, the Gallery is on solid ground.  The tree quality and display features are continually reviewed and improved.  The Bonsai at the Krohn has taken the form the original founders intended, a primary source of education, inspiration and enjoyment to thousands of men, women and children who view the collection each year.