Pierre S. du Pont, Fountain Visionary

Pierre S. du Pont, Fountain Visionary. . Inspired by the success of the Italian Water Garden and Open Air Theatre fountains, Pierre S. du Pont unveiled the Main Fountain Garden in 1931. The goal was to rival the fountains he had seen in Europe and at the 1893 World Columbian Exposition in Chicago. From this inspiration, Mr. du Pont created one of the most impressive fountain gardens in the world, the Main Fountain Garden. This revitalization project that ensures that Pierre S. du Pont's legacy continues for generations to come. , Historic photo of the Main Fountain Garden legacy view, as it was in Pierre S. du Pont's time, 1930. Longwood Library and archives. , A Brief History of the Main Fountain Garden , 1921-28 Major Garden components planted, including boxwood and maple species. , 1929-36 Major architectural components constructed , 1958 Huge snow storm damaged the boxwood, changing the look of the Garden for years to come , New fountain control system installed; Eye of Water built , 1970 Significant plumbing replacement and concrete repairs; Extension of the balustrade , 1980s Fireworks and music added; Fountain computer control system integrated for the first time , 1990s Concerns over the safety of deteriorating stonework led to a number of water features being turned off and the installation of partitions to limit access to several areas , 2009 Our Master Planning process began late fall; the final version of the plan was submitted in 2011 and it identified the Main Fountain Garden as the highest priority legacy project. , 2012 Planning and design began for New Heights: The Fountain Revitalization Project , 2014 Construction began , Summer 2017 Main Fountain Garden reopens , Colvin Randall, P.S. du Pont Fellow, Longwood Gardens , "Mr. du Pont created a 'wow' factor with the Main Fountain Garden. He wanted people to be amazed by all the color, drama, and grandeaur."