“The beauty of the park … should be the beauty of the fields, the meadow, the prairie, of the green pastures, and the still waters. What we want to gain is tranquility and rest to the mind.” – Frederick Law Olmsted
One of my favorite places to run near my house is Olmstead Linear Park (originally called Ponce de Leon Parkway); it was designed by famed American 19th century landscape architect, Frederick Law Olstead. Among Olmsted’s many other notable works are New York City’s Central Park, the Capitol grounds in Washington, D.C., Boston’s Emerald Necklace, and the Biltmore Estate.
Many people pass by the Park daily without knowing its history or tranquility. Olmstead designed it for as a place for Atlantans “to go after the day’s work is done.’ Unfortunately, many in the traffic that hurry along Ponce de Leon never pause to take in the parks beauty. That is why running through it is so refreshing and peaceful.
In the following pictures, I have tried to capture some of the early Spring time essence of the Park. The Park is divided into unique areas, beginning with Springdale. Springdale is the western most segment of the park (he corner of Ponce and Moreland) where concrete meets rolling pastures and aged oaks. It is also the home area of The Atlanta Boys Choir.
The next segment is Virgilee, named after ]oel Hurt’s daughter. Mr. Hunt was the developer of the Druid Hills area of Atlanta and the site of the Park. Virgilee is an open meadow with magnificent old trees and plants along the edge.
Oak Grove is next. It’s name is fitting since the area is filled with many old Oak trees. Among the Oaks is found the open pastors Olmstead loved.
Shadyside has additions supplied by 1930s WPA work efforts such as an old well, a bridge, and waterfall, and pool. Dellwood is named after a depression, a dell, in the pastor at the eastern end of the Park. Across from this area is Fernbank Center and the Druid Hills Country Club. Finally, Deepdene concludes the park with 22 acres of wooded tract with a stream flowing through it.
A great place to run or stroll, or even sit and read, if you are ever in Atlanta and looking for a relaxing place to visit.
Lawyair On The Run 