The greenhouse was built in the 1920s and used to provide flowers and food to the residents of Lilly House. When the IMA acquired the facility, demolition was considered, but volunteers and members of the Horticultural Society worked together to continue operation of the greenhouse through donations and revenues from plant sales. The greenhouse was expanded in 1993 and named in honor of Madeline F. Elder, who was among the generous volunteers who worked to save the facility.