Wilbur D. May Museum, Arboretum, and Botanical Garden
Introduction
Text-to-speech Audio
Established in 1983, this museum, arboretum, and botanical garden is open to the public. The arboretum has expanded from three to thirteen acres and features over 250 different species, while the garden includes another two acres of contemplative and educational paths. The museum includes a collection of rare and exotic artifacts accumulated during a lifetime of world travel by Nevada rancher and philanthropist Wilbur D. May. The museum is open year-round and offers a variety of special exhibits and programs throughout the year.
Images
Entrance to the museum adorned in foliage.

Backstory and Context
Text-to-speech Audio
The Museum is the end result of a lifetime of collection by Wilbur D. May, who traveled the world collecting thousands of rare and exotic artifacts that he stored in his home. Upon his death in 1982, his collection has been on display. The Museum also hosts traveling exhibitions, special programs and events year-round.
The museum is on the grounds of The Wilbur D. May Arboretum & Botanical Garden, which serves as a local showcase for plants and wildlife. Built in 1983, it is now home to over 4,000 plant species. The Arboretum is owned and operated by Washoe County and continues to receive funding from the May Foundation as well as other supporters such as the May Arboretum Society and private donations from the community.
Cite This Entry
M., Ben and Clio Admin. "Wilbur D. May Museum, Arboretum, and Botanical Garden." Clio: Your Guide to History. July 6, 2025. Accessed July 24, 2025. https://theclio.com/entry/12972
Sources
"About Us." Wilbur D. May Museum, Arboretum, and Botanical Garden. Accessed April 1, 2015. https://www.washoecounty.us/parks/maycenterhome/arboretum/about/index.php.