Grounds

The Hoyt Sherman Place grounds have always been a gathering place for neighbors, friends and members. The front yard was established as one of the first parks in Des Moines.

Charles Mulford Robinson made “Suggestions for the Beautification-of-the-City-of-Des Moines on a Comprehensive Plan” in 1909.

144 years later, a long-awaited lawn project was completed in 2023. A nod to the female landscape architect Etta Bardwell who came up with a similar design for the Des Moines Women’s Club in 1926 but never implemented. An Osage-Orange tree Planting ceremony took place to commemorate the occasion in 2024. Many memorial trees circle the property dedicated to war heroes including a tree planted by the Abigal Adams Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution in honor of Henry Wallace.

Every summer Jazz in July takes place on lawn featuring many local musicians. Large crowds gather to enjoy an evening on the lawn.