Genius of Place

The definitive biography of the influential abolitionist, ardent social reformer and conservationist, and the visionary designer of Central Park.

Frederick Law Olmsted is arguably the most important historical figure that the average American knows the least about. Best remembered for his landscape architecture, from New York's Central Park to Boston's Emerald Necklace to Stanford University's campus, Olmsted was also an influential journalist, early voice for the environment, and abolitionist credited with helping dissuade England from joining the South in the Civil War.

In Genius of Place, Justin Martin restores Olmsted to his rightful place in the pantheon of great Americans, portraying his momentous career, tragic personal life, and his role as a social reformer. He didn't simply create places that were beautiful in the abstract. An awesome and timeless intent stands behind Olmsted's designs, allowing his work to survive to the present day. With our urgent need to revitalize cities and a widespread yearning for green space, his work is more relevant now than it was during his lifetime.

“Genius of Place is far more than a survey of Olmsted's creations. It's a tightly woven narrative that ties together his personal life, his many vocations and his impact on a turbulent era.” -Charleston Post and Courier

“Not only a great portrait of the man, but a portrait of a period in American history.” -Sacramento Book Review

“A revealing look at a still-underappreciated giant whose work touches posterity more intimately and more delightfully than many of his distinguished Civil War-era contemporaries.” -Kirkus Reviews