Development of the Kopsick Palm Arboretum began in 1976. The
two-acre park was once a city miniature golf course which was
closed due to escalating maintenance costs. A concerned resident
and park volunteer, Mrs. Elva Rouse, proposed the area as ideal for
a palm arboretum. The proposal was adopted by City Council and
subsequently the palm arboretum was created through a generous gift
of stock from Miss Gizella Kopsick, a long-time palm admirer.
Initially, 60 palms representing 10 species were planted in the
park. Drinking fountains, a gazebo, conversation corners with
wooden benches and red brick paving were installed in a graceful
circle winding through the palms. All facilities were designed to
meet the needs of the handicapped, which included Miss Kopsick, who
was confined to a wheelchair. The arboretum was dedicated on May
16, 1977, Miss Kopsick's 100th birthday. Since the park opened many
additional gifts have been received from interested individuals and
organizations.
More than 500 palms and growing
Currently there are more than 500 palms and cycads representing
some 150 species from around the world. Development of the
arboretum is a continuing, never-ending project. The collection
will grow as new species become available. Park development is
supervised by the City Beautiful Commission in cooperation with the
St. Petersburg Parks Department.