Orson Hyde Park, Known also as Orson Hyde Memorial Garden, is a 5.5 acre park on the western slopes of Mount of Olives, near the Garden of Gethsemane. The park was purchased and inaugurated in 1979 by President of the Church of Jesus Latter Day Saints, and his dedicated to the memory of Orson Hyde and his visit to the site in 1841.

History of Orson Hyde Park

The Church of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints was organized in 1820. Twelve apostles were called to conduct its affairs, one of which was named Orson Hyde. As part of his ministry, Orson had a vision of himself standing on the Mount of Olives. Here he would utilize the power of the restored priesthood to dedicate the land “for the gathering of Judah’s remnants.” In his vision, this will lead to: “the building up of Jerusalem again after it has been trodden down”.

Hyde’s Dedication of the Site

Hyde took his journey to Jerusalem in 1841. After months of severe trials and physical deprivation, he finally walked onto the foot of Mount of Olives. Using the authority granted to him by God he dedicated the land for the gathering of the tribe of Judah. After offering the prayer of dedication he walked to the top of the Mount of Olives. Here he raised up an Ebenezer (stack of stones) as a witness before God and the world of the land’s dedication. Later he raised up a similar Ebenezar on the temple mount as a witness to the prophesied rebuilding of the temple.

The LDS Church later purchased the area believed to be the place where Orson Hyde offered this dedicatory prayer. Situated above the Garden of Gethsemane, it is now known as the Orson Hyde Memorial Park

Visiting Orson Hyde Park

The Orson Hyde Park is located 100 m NW of the Garden of Gethsemane and the Grotto of Gethsemane. It is open 24/7 and has no entry fees. The park combines natural woodlands, walking paths, and assembly areas. Aside from its special tranquility, the park also offers some excellent views of the Old City Wall, the Temple mount, and the Kidron Valley. A small parking lot near its entrance makes it easy to reach the site by car as well.

Touring Orson Hyde Park can be combined with a day tour of Jerusalem and/or in a LDS-themed tour of the Holy Land.

(I wish to thank Corbin Gordon for his input and editorial support of this post)