Project Details Page

synopsis

J.C. Olmsted visited this property and found the view west “commanding”, the precipitous slope below “appalling” and existing walls, walks and drives poor in layout and construction. He describes in his November 1906 field notes the large retaning wall as having "good random rock faced ashlar sandstone."

J.C. Olmsted visited this property and found the view west “commanding”, the precipitous slope below “appalling” and existing walls, walks and drives poor in layout and construction. He describes in his November 1906 field notes the large retaning wall as having "good random rock faced ashlar sandstone." His 15-page written report suggests specific ways to improve the landscape functionally and aesthetically, and to preserve the forested hillside. Recently widowed Eliza Ferry Leary’s brother had requested the viisit and report since he lived next door on jointly developed grounds. Their father was Washington’s first governor.

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