Celebrating the 150th Anniversary of the Bartholdi Fountain

Created for America’s 100th anniversary, the 30-foot-tall “Fountain of Light and Water” — aka the Bartholdi Fountain — turned 150 in 2026! To celebrate this milestone anniversary, join Devin for a deep dive into the history of the fountain, how and when it joined the United States Botanic Garden, how we care for this beautiful piece of history, and the story of the sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, who became internationally famous for another project, the Statue of Liberty. See historic photos from 150 years ago, 3D images, close-ups of the artistic details, and more! 

Presenter: Devin Dotson, Senior Communications Specialist, United States Botanic Garden 

This program was recorded May 14, 2026. Find upcoming programs at www.USBG.gov/Programs