Franklin Park Conservatory - AmeriFlora '92

AmeriFlora '92

In November 1986, Franklin Park and the Conservatory became the host site for AmeriFlora '92, a world-class, international horticulture exposition. Temporary management of the park and Conservatory was turned over to the organizers of AmeriFlora. The event officially was sanctioned by the Association International des Producteurs de l’Horticulture as a Class A international horticulture exposition.

In preparation for the event, renovation of the historic structure and a US$14 million expansion began in 1989. Additions totaled 58,000 sq ft (5,400 m2) and included an Himalayan Collection, Lowland Rainforest, Desert, Pacific Island Water Garden, Tree Fern Forest, Tropical Cloud Forest, classrooms, library, gift shop, café and administrative offices. On February 14 of the same year, the U.S. Christopher Columbus Quincentenary Jubilee Commission sanctioned AmeriFlora as an official 1992 commemorative event.

Before AmeriFlora opened, on April 10, 1991, the Ohio Legislature created the Franklin Park Conservatory Joint Recreation District for the long-term management and maintenance of Franklin Park Conservatory. Ownership of the Conservatory and surrounding 28 acres (110,000 m2) was to be conferred to a new 10-member board of trustees at the close of AmeriFlora. The remaining 65 acres (260,000 m2) were to be returned to the City of Columbus.

AmeriFlora ’92 opened on April 3, 1992 and ran through October 12, 1992. A celebration of Columbus’ voyages to America, the exposition featured live performances, a Taste of Nations pavilion and international shops. Major exhibits included the Community of Nations’ Gardens, Walt Disney World’s 20th anniversary topiary display, and the new Stephen Canneto NavStar ’92 sculpture representing the sails of Columbus’ ships. While more than one million people attended, AmeriFlora was not a financial success.