Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site in Brookline, Massachusetts, was once the home and office of Frederick Law Olmsted, the well-known American landscape architect. Olmsted’s most famous designs include Central Park in New York City and the grounds of the United States Capitol. He also designed numerous city and state park systems; suburban developments; college campuses; private estates; and the grounds for many public buildings. In addition, Olmsted passionately supported the preservation of American natural resources and the creation of state and national parks.
Olmsted established his home and office in Brookline in 1883. His office became the world’s first professional office dedicated entirely to landscape design. Olmsted located his principal office in the parlor of his home. As the firm grew, a rambling complex of offices grew out of the family residence. Olmsted himself retired in 1895, but the firm operated for many years after his retirement. Over about 100 years, the business produced thousands of designs. It reached its peak during the 1920’s, under the leadership of Olmsted’s son and stepson, who directed a staff of about 60 people.
Visitors to the site can see restored portions of the historic Olmsted offices. Visitors also can tour the restored grounds, which are an example of Olmsted’s design principles and craftsmanship. Exhibits focus on some of the landscapes designed by Olmsted and his firm. The site houses the Olmsted Archives, a collection of more than 1 million historic documents related to Olmsted designs. The Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation is based at the site as well.
The property became a national historic site in 1979. The National Park Service operates the site.
