Description of a plan for the improvement of the Central ParkOlmsted, Frederick Law
History
Description of a plan for the improvement of the Central Park
Olmsted, Frederick Law
Central Park (New York, N.Y.)
The management of the ground between the skating pond and Vista
Rock[18] appears to be indicated by its form and the character of
its present growth. It is well sheltered, and large masses of rock
occur at intervals. The soil is moist, and altogether remarkably
well adapted to what is called in Europe an American garden, that
is, a ground for the special cultivation of hardy plants of the
natural order Ericacæi, consisting of rhododendrons, andromedas,
azaleas, kalmias, rhodoras, &c.[19] The present growth, consisting of
sweet-gum, spice-bush, tulip-tree, sassafras, red-maple, black-oak,
azalea, andromeda, &c., is exceedingly intricate and interesting. The
ground is at present too much encumbered with stone, and with various
indifferent plants.[20] By clearing these away, and carefully leaving
what is valuable; by making suitable paths, planting abundantly, as
above suggested, and introducing fastigiate shrubs and evergreens
occasionally, to prevent a monotony of bushes, the place may be made
very charming. Where the hill-side approaches the lake, sufficient
openings are proposed to be left for occasional glimpses, or more open
views, of the water; and glades of fine turf are intended to occur
at favorable intervals, so as to offer pleasant spots for rest and
recreation.
[18] NOTE, 1868.—The ground here referred to is now called “The
Ramble.”
[19] NOTE, 1868.—This suggestion has been partially realized but yet
remains to be fully developed.
[20] NOTE, 1868.—Many of these which we have marked for removal, have
hitherto, for various reasons, been allowed to remain.
[Sidenote: Playground.]
[Sidenote: Winter drive.]
[Sidenote: Berceau walks.]
[Sidenote: Police station.]
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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