Harpers Weekly reported in 1857 that no engineer had yet been able to present a feasible plan for Central Park and that "it may not ever happen." Their pessimism was misplaced; as Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vauxs Greensward Plan was approved in May 1858. By 1860; visitors were enjoying the magnificent new parks naturalistic splendor. Central Park quickly became one of New Yorks premier attractions; featuring the menagerie; the mall; Bethesda Fountain; the Metropolitan Museum of Art; the music pavilion; the casino; and the original Croton Reservoir. The northern section of the park was more reminiscent of an untamed wilderness than of an urban park. Through historic postcards; Central Park highlights this man-made green oasis at the center of a teeming metropolis.
#2604060 in eBooks 2007-01-24 2007-01-24File Name: B009A6E3BM
Review
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Lovely Look at a Beautiful CityBy Ethics ProfI grew up in Utica. so I was eager to see this book. My only regret is that it didnt have a more representative selection of historical photos. There was much history that took place in Utica - hard to believe now - but it was said at one time that the "decisions of the world were made in Utica." The residential architecture on its main street (Genesee) and in areas like Rutger Park. etc.. is grand and impressive and reflects the citys importance to the country at the end of the nineteenth century. Unfortunately. this book shows only a few of those gorgeous homes. While this volume recalls much of the grandeur of Utica at the time. theres just not enough of it. Its not really an overview of the area as much as it is a celebration of one persons collection of photographs. and it is limited by his interests. That said. the book is still beautiful. There are photos that give a glimpse of the beautiful elm trees that once graced the streets there. Oxford Road in New Hartford is pictured. almost empty except for the marvelous home near St. Johns Church which was rumored to be a stop on the Underground Railroad. And my grandparents used to speak of Forest Park. which is featured in this collection. I had no idea where it was until I saw this book. (It was on Oneida Street near Hillcrest Manor - who knew!) So. while this is a limited collection. it is still worth the price!
