This horticultural center is the former estate and manor house of Clarence King which was willed to the City of Mansfield, OH in 1953 with an annual endowment to increase and maintain the gardens.

Typical of the manor houses of the first couple of decades of 1900, the grounds were exquisitely manicured with plantings of all sizes from trees to peonies. In additiona to the original gardens,presently it features an allee, perennial gardens, terrace garden, greenhouse and orangery, a natural area, a rosegarden and a shade garden. Exotic birds (peacocks and guinea hens)abound with a interesting assortment of ducks and swans.

In addition, there are specialty gardens such as a parterre, an oriental-style water garden, and flower gardens with vegetables mixed in. Unexpected views include a converted swimming pool area with an artistic lattice work framing statuary of Bacchus.