Brooklyn Arcadia: Art, History, and Nature at Majestic Green-Wood

Newly photographed, Green-Wood is a New York City treasure that serves as a garden, a repository for memory, and a place for repose, inspiration, and delight. It was founded in 1838 and is now a National Historic Landmark, attracting 500,000 visitors a year.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 07 November 2023
Publisher: Rizzoli International Publications

Green-Wood, a treasured gem in the heart of New York City, emerges as a verdant oasis, a sanctuary of memories, and a haven of repose, inspiration, and sheer delight. This living cemetery, a testament to human ingenuity and reverence, weaves a profound connection between the living and the departed, offering a unique experience that fosters a deeper understanding of life and death.

Founded in 1838, Green-Wood stands as a National Historic Landmark, a pioneering rural cemetery that defied convention. Its breathtaking beauty, captivating visitors from around the world, earned it an international reputation as the second-most visited tourist attraction in the United States, second only to Niagara Falls. Crowds flocked to this serene sanctuary to enjoy family outings amidst the finest of first-generation American landscapes, creating cherished memories amidst the rolling hills, serene valleys, glacial ponds, and winding paths.

Green-Wood's enduring popularity played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of public parks in New York City. It inspired the creation of Central and Prospect Parks, two iconic green spaces that continue to enchant residents and visitors alike. Within its expansive 478 spectacular acres, Green-Wood boasts one of the largest outdoor collections of nineteenth- and twentieth-century statuary and mausoleums, a testament to human creativity and craftsmanship.

Throughout the year, Green-Wood offers a kaleidoscope of beauty, with each season revealing a different facet of its charm. In spring, the lush greenery and vibrant blossoms awaken the senses, while summer brings a symphony of colors as the gardens burst into bloom. Autumn's golden hues paint the landscape with warmth and nostalgia, and winter transforms the cemetery into a serene winter wonderland, adorned with snow-covered statues and mausoleums.

Beyond its natural splendor, Green-Wood is a cultural treasure trove, housing the final resting places of renowned figures such as Leonard Bernstein, Boss Tweed, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Louis Comfort Tiffany. The cemetery's rich history and diverse inhabitants offer a glimpse into the lives and legacies of those who have left an indelible mark on society.

This captivating book, a celebration and an invitation, delves into the multifaceted tapestry of Green-Wood. It explores the natural landscape that surrounds it, paying homage to the trees, birds, and fauna that call it home. It also delves into the cemetery's architecture, statues, symbols, typography, and the intricate details that imbue it with its unique character.

Green-Wood invites readers to immerse themselves in its serene beauty, offering a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of memory and the significance of honoring the departed in a manner that transcends time and space. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a moment of reflection, Green-Wood welcomes you to explore its wonders and discover the profound connection between life and death.

Dimension: 305 x 254 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780847873241