The Friends of Briar Bush, a stewardship group for The Briar Bush Nature Center in Abington Township, became a private non-profit in 1974.

The nature center’s history at 1212 Edge Hill Road dates back to 1908 when a Quaker couple, Everett and Florence Griscom (pictured above), moved to Abington as newlyweds.

According to Briar Bush’s website, the Griscom land became a refuge for wildlife for more than 50 years, which they shared Scouts, school groups and avid birders.

Abington Township purchased the land in 1962. The area has since seen numerous renovations, additions, and awards, including a substantial improvement project which began after the New Year.

The current project will include an accessible trail to the Griscom Bird Observatory, a renovated program pavilion, an expanded gathering space, streetscape improvements, a new relocated butterfly house, an expanded rain garden and thousands of native plants. For updated facility accessibility, you can check the Center’s website and Facebook Page or call 215-887-6603.

For more on the nature center’s history, you can click here.

For all the latest news, follow us on Facebook or sign up for Glenside Local’s “Daily Buzz” newsletter here.

Photo: Briar Bush