A Historic Gem
Though the Topiary Park that we know today was dedicated in 1992, the seven-acre park’s history goes back much further. The topiaries are nestled within what was historically called Old Deaf School Park, which has a past spanning back to the early 19th century. The popularity of the topiaries and their attraction to tourists has led the park to become popularly known as the Topiary Park. However, when you look at the park’s roots you find the history of the Ohio School for the Deaf, the inspiring story of James and Elaine Mason who first dreamed of a topiary garden and, of course, you see the muse: Georges Seurat’s famous painting A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grand Jatte.
The care and energy of the Friends of the Topiary Park has ensured that these stories thrive along with the beautiful living sculptures, and they have created educational resources to enhance the visitor experience.