Brookline To Celebrate Grand Reopening Of Larz Anderson Lagoon

BROOKLINE, MA — The Town of Brookline will celebrate the grand reopening of the Larz Anderson Lagoon on Saturday, Sept. 10 from 2-4 p.m.

The Larz Anderson Lagoon reopening comes after the reconstruction of three historically significant architectural elements within the park, including the Tempietto (Temple of Love), the Causeway, and the Footbridge.

"The replacement of these elements will ensure they're here for future generations of Brookline residents and visitors to enjoy," Commissioner of Public Works Erin Chute Gallentine said in a statement. "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 many newly married couples' wedding photos.

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

For more information, click here or email Jessie Waisnor at jwaisnor@brooklinema.gov.