Get Lost in the Arboretum

Edith J. Carrier Arboretum 

In 1952, JMU President G. Tyler Miller purchased the 235 acres of land that is now the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum. Formerly known as the “College Woods,” the arboretum wasn’t used for educational purposes until 1964.

By Megan Grimes | contributing writer The Breeze

Twenty-five years ago, on April 28, 1989, one of James Madison University’s largest attractions
opened its doors.

It’s not E-Hall or Chick-fil-A, but the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum, located right off East Campus. 

Our arboretum is more than just 125 acres of native wildflowers and trees; it has become an outstanding masterpiece used by JMU students, faculty and other members of the Harrisonburg community.

But of course this serene landmark was not built overnight. 

After many years and with the help of many hands, it has become the beautiful arboretum that it is today. 

So who do we thank for bringing this great idea to our campus? According to the Arboretum’s newsletter, “Roots that Run Deep,” the opening was less than simple. It all started when President G. Tyler Miller first purchased
the 235 acres of land, now home to our arboretum, in 1952.

Shortly afterward in 1959, Interstate 81 was built, which created a boundary for the purchased land.

According to the “Roots that Run Deep” article, it wasn’t until 1964 that the arboretum, then known as the “College Woods,” was used for educational purposes by Norlyn Bodkin, a biology professor at JMU, who received additional education in botanical science.

Bodkin, along with other professors, advocated for an actual arboretum, which is a place where plants and trees are grown to be seen or studied by the public or for education and scientific reasons.

The “Roots that Run Deep” article explained that it wasn’t until 1977 that these professors got the green light from President Ronald E. Carrier and the first 26 acres of land went under construction.

Slowly but surely the arboretum grew until its gates opened in 1989, becoming the only official on-campus university arboretum in the state of Virginia.

According to arboretum assistant director, Gail Turnbull, JMU remains the only public university with a legitimate arboretum in which land was set aside to develop as the university’s community grew.

There is more than just an amazing view offered at the arboretum. Many students find this peaceful spot on campus to be a great place to study, run or just relax.

Senior biology major Zella Hoyt has spent much time at the arboretum. “It’s really peaceful and relaxing. I’ve even taken a yoga class there before!” Hoyt said. “I’ve also helped doing some work there like planting trees.”

There are many ways to give back to the arboretum, ranging from donating to hands-on work.

For sophomore athletic training major Bailey Hilton, the excitement of having an extraordinary place to spend time continues to grow.

“I think it’s a beautiful addition to JMU’s campus and a peaceful escape from the business of campus,” Hilton said. “It’s a great place to work out.”

However, you don’t have to be a member of the JMU community to use the arboretum. In fact, the pavilion and the land can be rented for weddings, public group events and private parties.

Turnbull, also in charge of guest events, said that the arboretum hosts about two dozen weddings each year.

Other events include birthday parties, wedding anniversary parties and bridal and baby showers.

They also support JMU students and host programs such as annual 5K events.

While there are many attractions within the arboretum, Turnbull mentioned what she enjoys about it most.

“My personal favorite part of the arboretum is the John Clayton Trail woodland garden area in the springtime when the entire woodland floor is carpeted with beautiful wildflowers,” Turnbull said.

After moving her daughter in to Chesapeake Hall in 2004, Turnbull first noticed the arboretum and fell in love.

“[It has] felt like a second home to me ever since then,” Turnbull said.

Contact Megan Grimes at grimesmx@dukes.jmu.edu.