About The Foundation
We are Willowwood
The Willowwood Foundation upholds the Willowwood Arboretum Trust.
The Morris County Parks Commission maintains our Gardens.
Willowwood Foundation History
The Willowwood Foundation primarily supports restoration and garden projects at the Willowwood Arboretum, and provides annual grants for horticultural interns, garden maintenance and restoration and plantings for the gardens and key collections.
The Willowwood Foundation celebrated the “Lilac Party” tradition of Hal Tubbs and Dr. Ben Blackburn the third Sunday of May each year as its primary fundraiser. However, during the Covid years, the Lilac Party was suspended and in 2023 the Board of Trustees decided to initiate a musical event “Sounds of Sculpture” on September 10, 2023.
In partnership with the Morris County Park Commission, a topical horticulture lecture series – The Tubbs Lecture – is offered annually in late Spring honoring the memory of Robert and Henry Tubbs, owners of Willowwood.
In 1960, Dr. Ben Blackburn and Russell W. Myers, Landscape Architect and Secretary Director of the Morris County Park Commission (1957-1983), established the Willowwood Foundation to protect the Willowwood treasure.
Russ Meyers
The Willowwood Foundation is a non profit (Section 501(c)(3) under the Internal Revenue code) educational organization incorporated in 1960 in the State of New Jersey to nurture an appreciation for and knowledge of botany, horticulture and the natural world through its support of public horticulture education, written materials and facilities to promote use, access and information about native and exotic plants.
History of the Lilac Party
The Lilac Party began in the early 1980s as a simple way to welcome spring, bringing together people who love Willowwood Arboretum on a May afternoon when the lilacs are at their peak. At that time, Willowwood was known for its distinguished collection of French lilacs that bloom later in the season, a uniquely beautiful sight. Founder Mary Bartow, with the help of Nancy Strong, envisioned an intimate afternoon to enjoy light hors d’oeuvres, stroll the garden paths, and listen to spirited a cappella from the University Glee Club (The Ten).
Over the years the Lilac Party has grown from a simple tea party into a beloved annual fundraiser. While the format expanded moving beyond teacups to wine, tents, and a festive atmosphere, the core mission remained the same: to celebrate Willowwood, support its care, and share its beauty and importance with the community.
Mary’s passion and generosity shaped the event’s early purpose and created the friendly, welcoming tone that still defines the Lilac Party today. Elements such as the enduring talents of The Ten and a silent auction of horticultural rarities became central features, helping draw new audiences and deepen community engagement.
Though the event paused briefly during the COVID years, it has endured for more than two decades, growing in scale while preserving its original spirit: welcoming spring, bringing people together, and sustaining Willowwood for future generations. We hope you’ll join us to celebrate the season and the garden.
