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A Testament to Time: Nancy Carol Carter on the Botanical Building Revitalization

Balboa Park’s Botanical Building holds a special place in the heart of Nancy Carol Carter, a dedicated historian and advocate for San Diego’s cultural and natural treasures. Reflecting on her experiences, Nancy shares her deep connection to this iconic structure, describing it as a sanctuary of serenity and fascination.

“When I lived in San Francisco, the Conservatory of Flowers in Golden Gate Park was one of my favorite places—a Victorian glasshouse reminiscent of Kew Gardens in London. When I moved to San Diego, I discovered its warm-weather cousin: Balboa Park’s Botanical Building. Its open-air lath structure, designed for San Diego’s ideal climate, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this city,” Nancy reminisces.

For decades, Nancy found solace within the Botanical Building’s lush greenery. “It’s a place where the everyday fades, and the plants either become a soothing backdrop or an endless source of fascination. Being among them is always restful and restoring,” she explains.

During the lengthy closure for its revitalization, Nancy channeled her passion into chronicling the project’s progress. Weekly photographs became her way of witnessing history come alive. “Watching the lath house emerge, faithfully replicating the 1915 design, made me feel deeply connected to the fascinating history of Balboa Park. This building, which awed visitors at the Panama-California Exposition, is now ready to inspire future generations.”

Nancy’s words underscore the importance of preserving and enhancing this cultural icon. “This project is more than a restoration—it’s a testament to San Diego’s respect for its architectural heritage and its commitment to historical integrity. As we celebrate the Botanical Building’s rebirth, we can take pride in the care and purpose that went into recreating such a vital piece of our history.”

Her reflections remind us of the enduring impact of thoughtful restoration and the timeless allure of the Botanical Building. “The recreated Botanical Building will be treasured by generations to come, standing as a beacon of Balboa Park’s history and a source of inspiration for future projects.”

Nancy’s passion and perspective exemplify the community’s pride in the Botanical Building, and her words encourage us all to cherish and protect this symbol of San Diego’s cultural heritage.