Laurel Hill Day 2022 to Celebrate Frederick Law Olmsted

Laurel Hill Association to join National Celebration

This August, Laurel Hill Association will present special programs celebrating the bicentennial of the birth of Frederick Law Olmsted, the founder of American landscape architecture. Beginning in the late 1800’s, Olmsted’s firm designed parks and scenic settings throughout the United States and in the Berkshires.

“I am delighted to confirm that the President of the National Association of Olmsted Parks, Anne ‘Dede’ Petri, has agreed to be our keynote speaker for our Saturday, August 27 ceremony at 2 PM at Laurel Hill Park,” said Hilary Somers Deely, President of Laurel Hill Association.  “Dede is traveling across the United States as part of a national celebration, Olmsted 200. Environmental organizations, parks, and schools throughout the country are presenting programs that celebrate the enduring contributions of Frederick Law Olmsted to the American landscape.”

“Olmsted’s vision for landscape design can be seen throughout the Berkshires,” said Deely. “Signature properties such as Wheatleigh in Stockbridge, Elm Court  in Lenox, parks from the city of Dalton southward, all bear the Olmsted stamp.” Olmsted and his firm undertook projects across the United States, most notably Central Park in New York City. In the early 1900’s, the Olmsted firm was commissioned by the Laurel Hill Association to execute a plan for the landscaping around the iconic Stockbridge Station.

A WEEKEND OF EVENTS!

Friday August 26th at 5:30 PM:
At the Red Lion Inn [the Hitchcock Room]. A panel discussion Olmsted and the Berkshires, brought to life the 40+ landscape design projects in Berkshire County executed by Olmsted and later by his son. Laurel Hill has a special connection with the Olmsted design heritage as in 1914 the Olmsted Brothers firm designed the setting for the Stockbridge Railroad station.

Saturday August 27th:
A very special Laurel Hill Day Celebration! Featuring the Berkshire Brass with Trumpeter Allen Dean. A reading from a representative from the Stockbridge – Munsee Tribe. LHA’s own “Singing Rangerettes”. Benediction by Pastor Brent Damrow. And other surprises….

1 PM: Activities for children, including games, Children’s Procession and Scavenger Hunt.

2 PM: Laurel Hill Day. In addition to music of Berkshire Brass Fanfare and Choral Music, the keynote speaker is President of the National Association of Olmsted Parks, Anne ‘Dede’ Petri. LHA joins a national celebration of Olmsted 200 to recognize the enduring contributions of Frederick Law Olmsted to the American landscape. This free event is held rain or shine.