Mission

The Conservatory of Flowers' mission is to cultivate, conserve, interpret and exhibit a tropical collection of flowers and plants that will educate people about these specimens and their importance to our planet while providing an outstanding visitor experience.

Click on the thumbnails below to view a slideshow of each era.

HISTORY OF THE CONSERVATORY

The Conservatory of Flowers has captivated guests for more than a century. This gem of Victorian architecture has a long and storied history and is the oldest wood and glass conservatory in North America. A city, state, and national historic landmark, it remains one of the most beloved attractions in the park.

1868	1877	1878-1879	1879
1883	1883	1906

20th Century

In the early to mid 20th century the Conservatory of Flowers was challenged by accidents, economics and maintenance issues. After World War II, the Conservatory was reopened to the public, after several boiler explosions the deemed the building structually unsound. From 1964-1981 much of the work at the Conservatory was spent upgrading and maintaining this elegant wooden structure.

1918	Great Depression	1933	1946
1964	1978 -1981	1995-1996

Rehabilitation Years 1998-2003

In early 1998, the Conservatory of Flowers was placed on a list of the 100 most Endangered World Monuments by the World Monuments Fund. The National Trust for Historic Preservation adopted the Conservatory into its, Save America's Treasures program, launched as part of First Lady Hillary Clinton's Millennium Council projects. Publicity from these efforts eventually led to a fundraising campaign to raise the $25 million dollars for the rehabilitation, restoration, and stabilization of the Conservatory. The construction lasted from 1999 until 2003.

1998

1999-2003
A $25 million dollar construction on the rehabilitation of the Conservatory begins in 1999 with support from the community, Architects, and Horticulturalists. On Septmeber 20th, 2003, the Conservatory reopens to the public for the first time in 8 years!

New Era 2003 to the Present

After four years of construction, rebuilding, and preserving the collection of flora and fauna, the Conservatory open to public. It is one of the most photographed landmarks in San Francisco and remains a favorite attraction for visitors and locals alike. Since re-opening in September, 2003, the Conservatory of Flowers has garnered numerous local, state and national awards. Learn more

2002	September 2003	October 2004	May 2005
November 2007	November 2008