Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Big Trees

Finn finds freedom in the space between two trees planned by Frederick Law Olmsted in Montreal's Parc Mont Royal. 


3 comments:

Paul said...

John - What kind of example are you setting for that poor boy, twisting history out of shape.

"Unfortunately for Olmsted and the park, the city of Montreal suffered a depression in the mid 1870s, and many of Olmsted's plans were abandoned. The carriage way was built, but it was done hastily and without regards to the original plan. None of the vegetation choices were followed and the reservoir was never built."

Mr. Olmsted's trees are all in Central Park NYC.

John R. Dila said...

Good point, and so typical of Montreal's budget process (I think they ran out of money for the Olympic Stadium, too).

But please note: The blog clearly says "planned" not "executed." :))

The more important reference to Olmsted was in the word "Freedom:

"Olmsted took the view that the practice of slavery was not only morally odious, but expensive and economically inefficient"..."With regard to the moral and religious condition of the slaves, I cannot, either from what I observe, or from what is told me, consider it in any way gratifying."

Gotta run--Obama's giving his acceptance speech.

Paul said...

Hey, did you change the post? It used to say "planted by...". Sneaky (or else I should be wearing my glasses). Maybe I was crying during Obama's speach.