A Landscape Shaped by History

History of the Gardens

The Botanical Gardens of Nevis began as a private passion in the late 1970s, when Englishman Tim Mosley purchased a one-acre parcel and created a terraced garden devoted to palms and tropical plants. He built an unusual, partially underground home called “The Bunker,” now known as the Garden House, whose grass-covered roof forms part of the area later developed as the Vine Gardens.

With views of Nevis Peak, classical music drifting through the plantings, and “opera night” gatherings, the property reflected its owner’s distinctive character.

Joseph and Martha Murphy of Pennsylvania later acquired the property and additional land, working with landscape architect Paul Richnow to develop the Botanical Gardens as a retreat combining tropical plants, art, and architecture. Terraces, water features, and carefully arranged plantings gave the Gardens their character, with the plantation-style Great House as an architectural centerpiece.

The setting also connects the Gardens to the island’s wider history: nearby Montpelier was the location of Horatio Nelson’s marriage to Frances “Fanny” Nisbet on March 11, 1787.

In 2007, Nik and Christi Douglas, together with their associates, acquired the Gardens and began a new chapter of restoration and care. They added land to help protect the property from development and spent several years restoring the Amazonian Rainforest Conservatory, buildings, waterways, and plantings while creating distinct garden areas.

Today, the privately owned Gardens welcome visitors to explore orchid terraces, palms, tropical fruit trees, flowering vines, and other collections, complemented by ponds, fountains, and sculpture. Shaped by successive owners and sustained through continuing care, the Gardens remain a place of discovery, beauty, and quiet enjoyment.