Named for the man who cultivated the land in the1960s, the area contains almost ten acres of undeveloped land and six hundred feet of freshwater pond shore, portions of which are home to state-listed native plant species. It is a green refuge for plants, wildlife, and people. Rustic trails traverse a variety of settings, leading visitors through deep woods and open fields to broad pond views.

Sylvan Gardens has a rich history. William Nickerson purchased the land from Sachem Mattaquason of the Monomoyick Indians in 1656. In the 1700 and 1800s, the land was used for homestead farming and drying peat for home heating.

Rolf Sylvan’s grandfather purchased the property in 1925. Rolf established Lower Cape Nursery here mid-20th century. He planted extensive ornamental and native gardens and experimented with grafting and hybridizing flowers and shrubs. In spring, customers delighted in strolling through the gardens to view, select and order from thousands of blooming bulbs clustered throughout the gardens. Blueberries were available in the summer.

There are many people in Chatham who have treasured memories of visiting Sylvan Gardens as children.

The land remained in the Sylvan family until 2004 when the Town of Chatham purchased 9.5 acres of the property with a conservation restriction to remain conservation land.

Sylvan Gardens is located off Old Main Street in West Chatham.

The AllTrails website has a description and map of a hike at Sylvan Gardens Conservation Area.