Frances Griscom Parsons

She founded and directed the first children's garden in DeWitt Clinton Park in New York City.

[1][2][3][4] In 1902 Parsons returned to New York City and became a member of the school board and was involved with the National Plant, Flower, and Fruit Guild, an organization that promoted children's nature study.

[5] Parsons founded the “Children’s School Farm” in DeWitt Clinton Park on the West Side of Manhattan in the Hell's Kitchen neighborhood from a rubbish heap in 1902.

The garden also had observational plots of grains, tomatoes, pumpkin, strawberries, and potatoes.

Through gardening activities, Parsons encouraged immigrant children to gain civic virtues including cooperation, industriousness, and self-respect.

Looking north from the park toward the 59th Street Gasworks around 1910. The park's arbor (since torn down) is on the left
The garden area in 1906 with the unobstructed views of the Palisades