Our Story
The Beginning: The Historic Bird Haven Greenhouse (1929)
On December 2, 1929, the Bird Haven Greenhouse opened it’s doors. Designed by Lord and Burnham Co., the structure became a significant architectural feature within Pilcher Park and a treasured landmark for the Joliet Park District. 
Vision for Expansion: A New Horticultural Center (1998)
The Joliet Park District Board approved the concept of a Horticultural Center as a major fundraising initiative. The project, undertaken by Joliet Park Foundation, carried a projected cost of $1,150,000. The original architectural rendering was created by Mr. Ken Stromsland. On January 21, 1997, In recognition of significant contributions from Mr. Andrew Barber and Mr. Clarence Oberwortmann, the new facility was officially named The Andrew B. Barber - Clarence D. Oberwortmann HorticulturalCenter. Dedicated in 1998, the Barber & Oberwortmann Horticultural Center opened as a 12,000-square foot facility located adjacent to the Bird Haven Greenhouse. The limestone exterior and exposed wooden beams were intentionally designed to complement the historic greenhouse and the surrounding natural environment of Pilcher Park. The Horticultural Center included: a multi-purpose room (banquet hall), resource center, gift shop, kitchen, and covered outdoor deck. 
Facility Renewal and the Introduction of “Venue Ninety-Eight” (2026)
The Board approved a capital improvement project exceeding $1 million dollars to renovate the interior of the Horticultural Center. The renovation introduced modern updates while emphasizing timeless elegance and maintaining a strong visual and experiential connection to the historic Bird Haven Greenhouse and the surrounding natural landscape. To commemorate the original 1998 opening of the Barber & Oberwortmann Horticultural Center, the renovated interior event space was named Venue Ninety-Eight and officially opened June 2026. The name directly references the year the Horticultural Center first opened, honoring it’s legacy while introducing the space as a luxurious, sophisticated, timeless event venue.