West Point

In 1902 the Olmsted Brothers was selected by architecture firm Cram, Goodhue, & Ferguson to collaborate on the design and improvement of the existing grounds of the US military campus. The firm worked on the base known as West Point for 10 years, expanding the campus into the neighboring reservation. Their planting plan suggested that “variety should be introduced” in trees and greenery, so as to “add interest and pleasure to places which are now rather monotonous or even disagreeable. My idea is that for this purpose much native shrubbery, to be collected in the reservation, should be used.” [Visit by F.L. Olmsted, Jr. and E.C. Whiting_06-1906_LOC-OAR-B-00322_im.31] They drew plans for staff headquarters. Lieutenant’s quarters, (plan 00322-172-sh2), a gymnasium, and academic buildings.