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synopsis

Frederick Law Olmsted began work on the U.S. Capitol Grounds in 1873. He wrote to the New-York Daily Tribune in 1874 about The National Capitol and the Main Purpose of the Design, saying "The general design is very simple, and will be easily understood. It has two purposes: First, to provide convenient approaches to and standing room about the Capitol;

Frederick Law Olmsted began work on the U.S. Capitol Grounds in 1873. He wrote to the New-York Daily Tribune in 1874 about The National Capitol and the Main Purpose of the Design, saying "The general design is very simple, and will be easily understood. It has two purposes: First, to provide convenient approaches to and standing room about the Capitol; second, to allow its imposing dimensions and the beauty of its architecture to have due effect, and so far as possible, to aid and heighten that effect." [New-York Daily Tribune-1874-12-05] Separated into East and West grounds, the general plan included several paths to ensure a comprehensive circulation system, a grand terrace, and two oval shaped lawns on either side of the front entrance. (plan 02820-35)

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