Ralph Perkins II Memorial Woods Garden

The Ralph Perkins II Memorial Woods Garden was created in 1970 with generous support from the Cleveland-area Perkins family, who had recently lost a son. During his short life, Ralph Perkins II embodied a love of nature. Ralph’s family approached the Museum to see if there might be a place to create a tribute to the late naturalist.
Former Museum Director William E. Scheele pitched to them the concept of a wildlife center. Scheele explained that he’d observed Clevelanders were largely unfamiliar with Ohio’s native species. In order to connect Museum guests with these fascinating creatures, he envisioned an immersive space where they could encounter wildlife firsthand. Aligned with Scheele’s vision, the Perkins family gave the Museum funds to bring this idea to life.

The first exhibits in Woods Garden were made of chicken wire, chain-link fencing, and modified corn cribs (which are traditionally used in agriculture). These cylindrical metal enclosures were incredibly durable and functional, though perhaps not very elegant. Nonetheless, they provided adequate homes that approximated natural habitats for the Museum’s first animal ambassadors.

Over the decades, the outdoor gallery’s name has changed, but the Museum continues to honor Ralph’s passion for wildlife. Since its opening in 1970, over 14 million visitors have been the beneficiaries of his family’s generous gift. Today, Ralph’s memory lives on in the Ralph Perkins II Wildlife Center & Woods Garden—Presented by KeyBank.