Origins and Founding Vision
The origins of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens are closely associated with Marie Selby, a philanthropist, and her husband, William Selby, a successful oilman and businessman from Chicago. The couple had a profound appreciation for nature, particularly tropical plants and orchids, and envisioned creating a space where the beauty and diversity of tropical flora could be enjoyed, studied, and preserved.
After Marie Selby’s passing in 1971, the estate and gardens she had nurtured were donated to the public, establishing the foundation for what would become Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. From its inception, the gardens were designed to integrate horticultural excellence with scientific research, conservation, and education, reflecting the Selbys’ commitment to environmental stewardship and public enrichment.
The choice of Sarasota Bay as the location was strategic. The subtropical climate, waterfront setting, and proximity to urban centers allowed the gardens to cultivate a variety of tropical and subtropical plants while offering visitors a serene, scenic environment. shutdown123