Scranton Preserves the Past, Embraces Sustainability at the Quain Memorial Conservatory
In 2024, the University began phase one of a three-phase project at the Quain Memorial Conservatory on campus. This involved the renovation of glass on the east wing of the Victorian greenhouse. Phase two is set to be completed in 2025.By Alexa Cutter '28, and Samantha Kosmark '26, student correspondents
The University of Scranton aims to preserve the beauty and historical significance of the Quain Memorial Conservatory and position it as a leading example of how educational institutions can embrace sustainability.
Originally built in 1872, the Victorian-style greenhouse was constructed for the Scranton family, who used the conservatory to cultivate and prepare cut flowers. The structure has been a part of the University since its establishment in 1959; its historical information reflects the architecture of the Victorian era and holds a significant place in the University’s heritage.
In the early 1970s, a group of students, faculty, and volunteers began their mission to restore the conservatory. Their commitment and hard work showed in the formal reopening and dedication of the Quain Memorial Conservatory on Sept. 14, 1975. This event marked a new chapter for the greenhouse, making it one of the few Victorian-style conservatories that are still unaltered from their original design.
At a recent event hosted by the Office of Sustainability at The Quain Conservatory on campus, individuals were invited to paint rocks for Valentine’s Day, as shown.
At a recent event hosted by the Office of Sustainability at The Quain Conservatory on campus, individuals were invited to paint rocks for Valentine’s Day, shown..
The Quain Memorial Conservatory now serves a multi-purposed role at the University. The atmosphere within the greenhouse encourages individuals, including students and staff, to explore their passion for environmental sustainability. The greenhouse serves as a home for a variety of plants. Recently, the Office of Sustainability hosted events to keep people involved with the environment on campus. At one of these events, individuals were invited to paint rocks for Valentine’s Day.
Looking to the future
The University is actively working on plans to transform the Quain Memorial Conservatory into a sustainable community resource. In 2023, a new high-efficiency Lochinvar 80 boiler was installed, reducing the cost of heating. In 2024, phase one of a three-phase project began effect. This first phase involved the renovation of the glass on the east wing of the greenhouse and the removal of old glass that might have been broken. Phase two is set to be completed in 2025, and phase three in 2026.
Through these efforts, Scranton aims to preserve the beauty and historical significance of the Quain Memorial Conservatory and position it as a leading example of how educational institutions can embrace sustainability. The ongoing preservation and enhancement of this greenhouse shows dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and responsibility, ensuring that it is still an important asset for generations of students, faculty and staff.
Anyone interested in getting involved in the greenhouse or planting greenery at The Quain Memorial Conservatory, should contact Mark Murphy in the Office of Sustainability at mark.murphy@scranton.edu
