Grotto Gardens Information
The Grotto and Gardens were a significant area of attraction of the Dayton Soldiers’ Home, called the “Mother Home” by the returning veterans from the American Civil War. The area where the Grotto and Gardens are located was the site of a limestone quarry.
In 2012, The Dayton VA Medical Center (DVAMC) and The American Veterans Heritage Center initiated the current reclamation of the historic Grotto Gardens landscape. The Ohio State University Extension’s (OSUE) Greater Montgomery County Master Gardener Volunteers joined the team in 2013 to provide horticultural support and develop new gardens. Home Depot provided critical support both financially and through volunteer efforts to improve the infrastructure. Along the way, other volunteers have joined the team and there have been significant financial and in-kind donations by individual, organizations, garden clubs, and garden centers.
While OSUE is no longer involved, the Grotto Gardens continue to be supported by a dedicated group of volunteers. The focus of these volunteers is to preserve the historic Grotto Gardens, to inspire the public by providing a beautiful and calming place to visit, and to educate the public on both the Grotto Gardens history and horticulture.
