Founded in 1891 in Bronx Park, the New York Botanical Garden grew from a long campaign by botanists and civic supporters into a major scientific and public institution. On 250 acres, it combines display gardens, a vast living plant collection, old-growth forest, a major conservatory, and one of the world’s largest botany libraries. Landmark early buildings included the LuEsther T. Mertz Library and the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, while later features and restorations broadened its landscapes and educational work. After financial strain and decline in the late 20th century, renewed investment restored and expanded the garden. It now serves as a historic landscape and a leading center for plant science, conservation, and education.