The Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania

The Gardens & Exhibits

General Information
Plant Collection
Arboretum Features
Horticulture Center
History
Mission and Vision
Tree Adventure

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Tree Adventure - Springhouse

Select a Station

Out on a Limb
The Dawn Redwood Grove
Oak Allée
Springhouse
Log Cabin

Springhouse
Compare Nature’s Temperatures

This was the best means of refrigeration in pre-Victorian and Colonial times. Though now obsolete, it remains a symbol of early America and might be thought of as the “coolest” place in the Arboretum. Just how cool is it? Visitors can analyze temperature changes using thermometers placed in the shade, in the sun, in the water and even underground! Find out how it works, why the temperature is so constant, and how trees contribute to its success.

Spring House