In 1981, because of his love of the natural world and his belief in education, Mr. Emory Smith donated his Hilltop property to Louisiana State University. It was placed under the management of the Robert Reich School of Landscape Architecture with the intent that it remain a model of the natural landscape and continue its use as an outdoor classroom. Native plant enthusiasts; students from LSU and
Southern University; public, private, and parochial schools; and the greater Baton Rouge community continue to use the Arboretum as an extension of the classroom to learn about natural systems, plants, and landscape design. However, rest assured each visitor will find not only a place of learning, but also a quite place far removed from the pressures of life ... a place of solace, comfort, and contemplation. is an independent, non-profit organization that works in partnership with LSU to preserve, protect, and enhance this natural wonder to ensure it forever benefits the Greater Baton Rouge Community. Established in 1982 with thoughtful guidance from Emory Smith, its office was located on site in 1991. Realizing the positive impact Hilltop has on education, Friends of Hilltop made the commitment to build a facility to accommodate programming in its outdoor classroom. The building design was created by Ted Flato, a vernacular architect with nationally recognized firm of Lake/Flato Architects of San Antonio, Texas. The building respects the natural landscape, is enviornmentally sensitive, and recognizes the legacy of the founder Emory Smith and the unique history of the area.
