Brookline DPW Invites Residents to Grand Reopening of Larz Anderson Lagoon, Including Temple of Love, Footbridge and Causeway

BROOKLINE – Commissioner Erin Chute Gallentine and the Brookline Department of Public Works invite members of the community to the grand reopening of the Larz Anderson Lagoon. 

WHEN:

Saturday, Sept. 10, from 2-4 p.m. (rain date Sunday, Sept. 11 at the same time)

WHERE:

Larz Anderson Park, with entrances on Goddard Avenue and Newton Street

WHAT: 

The Larz Anderson Lagoon reopening will be a celebration of the reconstruction of three historically significant architectural elements within the park — the Tempietto (Temple of Love), the Causeway and the Footbridge. The features, which vary in their complexity, are each integral to the park’s character and history. 

“The replacement of these elements will ensure they’re here for future generations of Brookline residents and visitors to enjoy,” Commissioner Gallentine said. “We are eager to celebrate the reopening of these beautiful historic structures, retaining the historic character and detail of the original structures using modern construction methods.”

At over 65 acres, Larz Anderson Park is Brookline’s largest park and the former estate of diplomat Larz Anderson and his wife, writer and philanthropist Isabel Anderson. She bequeathed the land to the town in 1948. The three features reopening next month were designed by the architectural firm Little and Browne and opened around 1910. 

The tempietto and surrounding lagoon area served as the site of many theatrical performances held for charity, with many of the plays being written by Isabel Anderson. Today the tempietto is fondly known as the Temple of Love and has been the site for countless newly married couples’ wedding photos, including Brookline Parks and Open Space Director Alexandra Vecchio. 

Next month’s grand reopening will be a family friendly event that will feature live music by the Anastassiya Petrova Trio, yard games and light refreshments. 

For additional information please visit the website at: https://www.brooklinema.gov/2370/Larz-Anderson-Lagoon-Reopening or email Jessie Waisnor at jwaisnor@brooklinema.gov.