Interpretation Strategies for the Public Pleasure Ground

Abstract

This article illustrates how the photography exhibition, Rochester’s Olmsted-designed Public Pleasure Grounds, weaves together the natural and cultural threads that tell the story of the Rochester, New York park system’s evolution between the 1880s and 1990s using photographs, plans, original artifacts, video footage and a gallery guide. The main intent is to raise public awareness and increase community stewardship of the historical and educational value of the city’s Olmsted park system. Landscape architects and other professionals working in the public sector can use the ideas and strategies to develop interpretive materials and public programs for their own communities. The exhibition was on display at George Eastman House in Rochester, New York between May 1 and November 7, 1999. It was mounted in conjunction with the National Association for Olmsted Parks conference hosted by George Eastman House from September 30 to October 3, 1999.