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synopsis

Located in Washington DC, the grounds of the Episcopal Cathedral were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. in 1907. With the cathedral located atop a hillside, Olmsted Jr.’s plan focused on the 57 acres of forest surrounding it. Struck by the natural scenery on a preliminary visit, he decided “there should be an approach to the Cathedral from Massachusetts Avenue

Located in Washington DC, the grounds of the Episcopal Cathedral were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. in 1907. With the cathedral located atop a hillside, Olmsted Jr.’s plan focused on the 57 acres of forest surrounding it. Struck by the natural scenery on a preliminary visit, he decided “there should be an approach to the Cathedral from Massachusetts Avenue…thus making it possible for one approaching the cathedral from the city...to continue along that line of approach with the cathedral constantly ahead of them.” [Visit by F.L. Olmsted and Mr. Gallagher_05-21-1907_LOC-OAR-B-03297_im.7] He designed a rustic pathway called Pilgrims Road which curved through the grounds leading to the gothic church. In 1916, a planting plan was prepared for the Bishops Garden (03297-36). It included an area for fruits, vegetables, and cut flowers and a concentration of plantings around the house. Olmsted Jr. continued to advise on the project through 1927. Restoration efforts led by All Hallows Guild in the 1990s put forth a conscious effort to remain sympathetic to the original Olmsted vision.

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