Overbeck Lecture: Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., and the Development of Washington’s Landscape as We Know It Today

There is hardly a corner of Washington, DC, and the surrounding area that has not been touched by the plans developed by Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. (1870-1957).  Known as Rick, the youngest son of the famous father, Frederick Law Olmsted (1822-1903), Rick’s impact far exceeds that of his father in the capital city.  Rick Olmsted not only designed the park system, but spent 50 years as the primary consultant in carrying out the plan.  He designed the National Mall, the Potomac Parks, the various fort-centered parks, the White House grounds, Rock Creek Park, all the stream-valley parks and the C&O Canal Park.  He organized and chaired both the National Capital Planning Commission and the Commission of Fine Arts and shaped the profession of landscape architect.

Steve Livengood, Public Historian of the US Capitol Historical Society, long-time Capitol Hill resident and popular Overbeck lecturer, will give us an appreciative overview of how much we owe this tireless and quiet leader.  Steve serves on the national board of the Olmsted Network, which champions Olmsted parks, places and principles through advocacy, education and preservation.

Reservations for the lecture on Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr.,  can be made starting September 14. Seating will begin at 6:30 pm; the power point presentation will begin at 7 pm followed by a question and answer period.