Genius of Place: The Life of Frederick Law Olmsted Contributor(s): Martin, Justin (Author) |
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ISBN: 0306821486 ISBN-13: 9780306821486 Publisher: Da Capo Press OUR PRICE: $25.73 Product Type: Paperback - Other Formats Published: October 2012 |
Additional Information |
BISAC Categories: - Biography & Autobiography | Artists, Architects, Photographers - Biography & Autobiography | Historical - History | United States - 19th Century |
Dewey: B |
Series: Merloyd Lawrence Book |
Physical Information: 1.3" H x 6" W x 8.9" (1.20 lbs) 496 pages |
Themes: - Chronological Period - 19th Century |
Descriptions, Reviews, Etc. |
Publisher Description: The full and definitive biography of Frederick Law Olmsted, influential abolitionist, ardent social reformer and conservationist, and the visionary designer of Central Park Frederick Law Olmsted is arguably the most important historical figure that the average American knows the least about. Best remembered for his landscape architecture, from New York's Central Park to Boston's Emerald Necklace to Stanford University's campus, Olmsted was also an influential journalist, early voice for the environment, and abolitionist credited with helping dissuade England from joining the South in the Civil War. This momentous career was shadowed by a tragic personal life, also fully portrayed here.Most of all, he was a social reformer. He didn't simply create places that were beautiful in the abstract. An awesome and timeless intent stands behind Olmsted's designs, allowing his work to survive to the present day. With our urgent need to revitalize cities and a widespread yearning for green space, his work is more relevant now than it was during his lifetime. Justin Martin restores Olmsted to his rightful place in the pantheon of great Americans. |