The Power of Scenery: Frederick Law Olmsted and the Origin of National Parks

The idea for a national park originated in pre-Yellowstone America, where Americans realized that their natural wonders could compensate for the dearth of man-made attractions. Landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted organized his thoughts on how to manage Yosemite Valley, a state-owned predecessor to the national park model of Yellowstone, and saw city parks as vital to the pursuit of happiness. He wrote down his philosophy for managing Yosemite, creating a visionary blueprint for national parks to come.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2021
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Featured in the Wall Street Journal's 2021 Holiday Gift Books Guide, 2021 Marfield Prize Finalist, and acclaimed by Wallace Stegner as "the best idea we ever had," the concept of national parks has a rich and fascinating history. As we commemorate the 150th anniversary of Yellowstone, the world's first national park, it's natural to wonder where this idea originated. The answer begins with a look at pre-Yellowstone America. In the face of Europe's cultural treasures, such as its cathedrals, castles, and museums, Americans began to recognize the immense natural beauty that their country possessed. This realization shaped the vision of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted as he planned the management of Yosemite Valley, a state-owned precursor to the national park model of Yellowstone.

Olmsted's thoughts were deeply influenced by the cluttered and carnival-like banks of Niagara Falls, which he saw as an example of what should not happen to a spectacular natural phenomenon. He believed that city parks were essential to the pursuit of happiness and wanted them to be accessible to all. When he penned his philosophy for managing Yosemite, a new and unique kind of park, one that preserved a great natural site in the wilds, he had no idea that he was laying the groundwork for future national parks.

Dennis Drabelle, in his book "The Power of Scenery," provides a comprehensive history of the national park concept, enriching our understanding of American environmental thought and connecting Olmsted with three of the country's national treasures. Published in time to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Yellowstone National Park on March 1, 2022, and the 200th birthday of Frederick Law Olmsted on April 26, 2022, "The Power of Scenery" tells the captivating story of how this visionary idea came to fruition.

The book explores the historical context in which national parks emerged, highlighting the role of individuals and organizations such as John Muir, Theodore Roosevelt, and the National Park Service in their establishment. It also delves into the philosophical and ecological principles that guided Olmsted's design of Yosemite and other parks, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural beauty and creating spaces for human enjoyment and reflection.

Through vivid anecdotes and insightful analysis, "The Power of Scenery" sheds light on the enduring legacy of national parks and their significance in shaping our understanding of the natural world and our place within it. It serves as a reminder of the power of human creativity, vision, and dedication to preserving the beauty of our planet for future generations.

In conclusion, the concept of national parks has a rich and fascinating history, rooted in the recognition of America's natural beauty and the vision of individuals like Frederick Law Olmsted. "The Power of Scenery" by Dennis Drabelle provides a comprehensive account of this journey, illuminating the historical context, philosophical principles, and enduring legacy of national parks. As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Yellowstone and the 200th birthday of Olmsted, this book serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the natural world, environmental conservation, and the power of human creativity to shape our world.

Weight: 544g
Dimension: 234 x 206 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496220776