Reitz Memorial Arboretum is situated on the 18-acre campus of Reitz Memorial High School in Evansville, Indiana, providing a blend of education and natural preservation in the heart of the city. Included in the collection of trees is a Little Leaf Linden that is recognized as one of the largest specimens in Southern Indiana, as well as a Royal Paulownia that is widely believed to be the largest of its kind in the world.
A number of the trees in Reitz Memorial Arboretum have been donated to the school as living memorials honoring alumni, creating a landscape that reflects the history and spirit of the school community. Each memorial planting serves as a lasting tribute while also enhancing the diversity and beauty of the campus. Because the arboretum is located directly on school property, it functions not only as a peaceful green space but also as an active outdoor classroom. Students can learn about the importance of native plants and keystone species, as well as gain a deeper understanding of biodiversity. These lessons are becoming increasingly important as natural forests give way to urban development and “urban forests”. Hopefully Reitz Memorial Arboretum will help future generations of students, as well as the Evansville community, appreciate the importance of conservation, ecological balance, and responsible stewardship of the environment.