This impressive sculpture collection was acquired by Allegheny County through a program led by Carol R. Brown, the former director of Allegheny County’s Bureau of Cultural Programs, that brought art to Hartwood Acres Park. Beginning in 1979 and extending into the 1980s, Brown worked with Leon Arkus, director of the Carnegie Museum of Art from 1969 until 1980, and Sydney Feldman, a Carnegie Museum of Art board member and owner of Tygart Steel, to install eleven sculptures by nationally and internationally renowned artists throughout the park.
Large Snail, Tillie Speyer
Works by Tillie Speyer and Lila Katzen were installed in the first year, with works by Betty Gold, Jack Youngerman, Ron Bennett, and Lyman Kipp installed by the early 1980s. By the mid-1990s, an additional five sculptures were added, including works by artists Fletcher Benton, Peter Forakis, David Hayes, Clement Meadmore, and Charles Ginnever. One additional sculpture by David von Schlegell was acquired in the following decades.
In 2019 and 2020, as part of a major project funded by the Allegheny County Parks Foundation and Allegheny County, the artworks underwent conservation. During this process, most sculptures were moved from their original locations in the park to be closer to the mansion for a more cohesive and accessible sculpture garden. This effort also included a newly commissioned work by artist Dee Briggs which was installed in 2021. Allegheny County unveiled the redesigned sculpture garden in 2022, and it was officially named the Carol R. Brown Sculpture Garden at Hartwood Acres Park.
The tour of the Carol R. Brown Sculpture Garden includes stops at each of the garden’s sculptures where you will learn about the artworks themselves and the artists who made them.
Margie and Pete, Dee Briggs
About Us
The Allegheny County Parks Foundation strengthens the health and vibrancy of our community by improving, conserving and restoring the nine Allegheny County Parks. Working in partnership with Allegheny County, the Parks Foundation brings together ideas, leadership and resources to make the parks more sustainable and enjoyable for all.
Hartwood Acres Park is easily the most unique and scenic park in Allegheny County. Originally designed as a county estate for an equestrian family, Hartwood Acres Park embodies its magnificent past over 629 acres in the Hampton and Indiana Townships. The park features a Tudor mansion built in 1929 by Alfred Hopkins for John and Mary Flinn Lawrence. Visitors can explore 16th century architectural design and English and American antiques in excellent condition during mansion tours.
Along with mansion tours and three-course high teas, visitors may stroll through the gardens or take in a free summer concert at the amphitheater. Other amenities include a dog park, and wooded trails for cross-country skiing, walking, hiking, and horseback riding, and a beautiful meadow.
Occasionally, the Allegheny County Park Rangers lead free tours for the Carol R. Brown Sculpture Garden. Check out if they have one coming up!
Hartwood Acres Park is open 365 days a year, dawn to dusk. Please note that certain areas of the park may be temporarily inaccessible at times due to public or private events. We appreciate your understanding and patience.
A special thank you to our funder:
Hartwood Acres Mansion
200 Hartwood Acres Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Allegheny County Parks Foundation
675 Old Frankstown Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
Allegheny County
436 Grant Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
