THE PROPOSAL FOR THE WALK

FOR THE AMERICAN HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

IN ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA

by

Melody Joy Gray

A thesis submitted to the Faculty of the University of Delaware in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Public

Spring 2006

Copyright 2006 Melody Joy Gray All Rights Reserved UMI Number: 1435928

UMI Microform 1435928 Copyright 2006 by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights reserved. This microform edition is protected against unauthorized copying under Title 17, Code.

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THE PROPOSAL FOR THE LIBERTY HYDE BAILEY WALK

FOR THE AMERICAN HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

IN ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA

by

Melody Joy Gray

Approved: ______Robert E. Lyons, Ph.D. Professor in charge of thesis on behalf of the Advisory Committee

Approved: ______Robin W. Morgan, Ph.D. Dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources

Approved: ______Conrado M. Gempesaw, II, Ph.D. Vice Provost for Academic and International Programs

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The completion of this thesis is the culmination of months of hard work and dedication. Special thanks are extended to my thesis committee: Bob Lyons, Ron Kagawa, Jim Swasey, and Tom Underwood. Thank you for your hours of editing and advising and your thoughtful insights. I truly had no clue how to accomplish this when I started and now look where I am because of you! Gerry Zuka, thank you for your shoulder to cry on and your constant encouragement. It has been a delight working with you. Mike and Jo Adams, words are simply not enough. Thank you for your support, encouragement, friendship, prayers, and your living room. Thanks also to my small group Bible study: the Adams, the Bradleys, the Johnsons, the Morrises, the Watkins, the Williamsons, and Cate Prestowitz. You have proven over and over the power of prayer, thank you! Mom, Dad, and Meridith thank you for being who you are! The examples you set by your work ethics and your positive outlooks inspire me to be better than I ever imagined I could be. I am so blessed to have a family like you. To my fiancé Jeff, thank you for allowing me to follow my dreams and the call of God in my life. You push me daily to go above and beyond in all areas of my life and I am a better person for knowing you. I look forward to supporting you as you chase your dreams. Finally, to my God and Savior Jesus Christ, without you I am nothing. Thank you for your continual grace and mercy in my life. My cup runneth over.

iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIST OF FIGURES...... vi ABSTRACT ...... viii I. Introduction & Justification ...... 1 A. Introduction ...... 1 B. Justification...... 2 C. Bibliography ...... 4 II. Methodology...... 5 A. Literature Review and Background Research ...... 5 B. Human Subjects Review...... 5 C. Washington, D.C. Metro Area Investigation ...... 6 D. Landscape Architecture Investigation ...... 6 E. Focus Groups at George Washington’s River Farm (AHS Headquarters) ...... 8 F. Designing the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk for AHS ...... 9 III. The Influence of Liberty Hyde Bailey on American Horticulture ...... 11 A. Bailey’s Early Life...... 12 B. “The Father of American Horticulture”...... 13 i. American Horticulture and Education ...... 13 ii. American Horticulture and Technology ...... 14 iii. American Horticulture and Community ...... 15 iv. American Horticulture and Publication ...... 16 C. Conclusion ...... 17 D. Bibliography ...... 18 IV. Findings...... 20 A. Landscape Architect Interviews ...... 20 i. A Reflection on Signage ...... 20 ii. Emotionally Evocative Gardens...... 22 iii. Creative License...... 23 iv. Use of Material...... 24 B. Relevance to the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk ...... 25 C. Design Applications from the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial ...... 26 i. Signage at the FDR Memorial...... 27 ii. Emotional Experience ...... 27 iii. Individual Design...... 27 iv. Use of Material...... 28 D. American Horticultural Society (AHS) Focus Groups...... 28

iv i. AHS Focus Group Questions ...... 29 ii. Necessities for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk...... 30 iii. Communicating Bailey’s Stories ...... 32 iv. Important Inclusions for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk ...... 32 v. Interpreting the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk...... 34 E. Conclusion ...... 35 F. Bibliography...... 36 V. Design...... 44 A. Design Assumptions...... 44 B. The Four Themes...... 45 i. Theme Definitions...... 46 ii. Education...... 46 iii. Technology...... 47 iv. Community...... 48 v. Publication...... 49 C. Design Overview ...... 51 i. LHB Walk as Entry to AHS...... 52 ii. Shaded Seating and Gathering Spaces...... 52 iii. Paving and Plantings...... 52 iv. Pedestrian vs. Vehicular Traffic...... 53 v. Liberty Hyde Bailey Award Winners...... 53 D. Conclusion...... 54 E. Bibliography...... 55 Appendix A: Washington, D.C. Metro Area E-mail Research ...... 73 Appendix A1: First Participation Invitation E-mail Sample...... 75 Appendix A2: Participation Follow-Up Email Sample...... 76 Appendix B: Landscape Architect Interview Research ...... 77 Appendix B1: Pre-Participation Invitation E-mail Sample...... 79 Appendix B2: Participation Invitation Letter Sample...... 80 Appendix B3: Designer Matrix ...... 81 Appendix C: American Horticultural Society Focus Groups...... 82 Appendix C1: American Horticultural Society Board Members ...... 82 Appendix C2: AHS Staff Members...... 84 Appendix C3: Focus Group Questions...... 85 Appendix D: Human Subjects Review Board...... 86 Appendix D1: Human Subjects Review Board Request for Exemption...... 86 Appendix D2: Thesis Proposal Summary ...... 88 Appendix D3: Thesis Proposal Excerpts including in mailings...... 95 Appendix D4: Letter from University of Delaware Human Subjects Review Board granting exemption...... 97

v

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 4.1: The 4-H Children’s Garden at Michigan State University illustrating the use of bright colors to evoke feelings of play and learning...... 37 Figure 4.2: The FDR Memorial representing the engraved signage style proposed for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk. (with permission, photo by Robert E. Lyons)...... 38 Figure 4.3 The FDR Memorial representing the use of quotation as proposed for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk. (with permission, photo by Robert E. Lyons)...... 39 Figure 4.4: The FDR Memorial representing the use of sculpture to evoke emotion. (with permission, photo by Robert E. Lyons) ...... 40 Figure 4.5: The FDR Memorial representing successful design indicated by human use of space. (with permission, photo by Robert E. Lyons) ...... 41 Figure 4.6 The FDR Memorial representing successful design as indicated by human use of space. (with permission, photo by Robert E. Lyons)...... 42 Figure 4.7: The FDR Memorial representing appropriate use of water and stone. (with permission, photos by Robert E. Lyons) ...... 43 Figure 5.1 Existing master plan developed by Marshall*Tyler*Rausch for the American Horticultural Society November 2004. Used with permission...... 56 Figure 5.2 The Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Plan View...... 57 Figure 5.3 The Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Plan View with assisting drawings labeled ...... 58 Figure 5.4 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk Northern Orientation Section ...... 59 Figure 5.5 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Southern Orientation Section ...... 59 Figure 5.6 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Spring Axonometric ...... 60 Figure 5.7 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Summer Axonometric ...... 61 Figure 5.8 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Summer Evening Axonometric ...... 62 Figure 5.9 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Autumn Axonometric...... 63 Figure 5.10 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Winter Axonometric...... 64 Figure 5.11 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Character Sketch of the Education portion showing the radial planting pattern and a bronze sculpture of Hortus...... 65 Figure 5.12 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Character Sketch of the Technology portion illustrating the planting style and a bronze likeness of Liberty Hyde Bailey with a small child watering plants in an Earth Box...... 66 Figure 5.13 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Character Sketch of the Community portion illustrating the educational kiosk and planting style ...... 67 Figure 5.14 A sample garden kiosk by ProTech Kiosk for Garden 123. Photo from http://www.protechkiosk.com/photos/gardenH.jpg...... 68

vi Figure 5.15 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Daytime Pergola Detail at the terminus of the Walk: the foreground illustrates a view of the incorporation of quotation into the pathway...... 69 Figure 5.16 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Evening Pergola Detail at the terminus of the Walk illustrating what the space could look like at night...... 70 Figure 5.17 Details of the grass pavers recommended for the LHB Walk. This particular brand is TurfPave® and can be found at www.turfpave.com...... 71 Figure 5.18 A sample of a customized solar powered glass paver with a smooth upper surface etched with the Award winner’s name and year...... 72

vii

ABSTRACT

Liberty Hyde Bailey, Jr. is considered by many to be the father of American horticulture, playing a vital role in the areas of horticultural education, technology, community and publication. This thesis explores Bailey’s background and his significant contributions to American horticulture; it also highlights and proposes important design principles to create a garden walk worthy of Bailey’s name at the American Horticultural Society (AHS) in Alexandria, VA. The proposed Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk suggests an alternate design for the main axis proposed in the 2004 master plan developed by Marshall*Tyler*Rausch, LLC. A conceptual design of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk was produced to serve as a guideline for eventual installation. To ensure the success of the garden, an examination of outstanding interpretive spaces occurred involving interviews of landscape architects from across the country and focus groups of AHS staff and board members. The research indicated that interpretation works best when there are provisions for many learning styles and when the design is well thought out. The conceptual design for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk includes plan view drawings, five full axonometric drawings depicting the garden throughout the years, crucial section drawings, illustrative perspectives, and specific recommendations for plants, sculpture, and hardscapes that will further the objective of the Walk.

viii Chapter One

I. INTRODUCTION & JUSTIFICATION

Designing the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk at the American Horticultural Society (AHS) in Alexandria, VA was an obvious choice as I considered possible projects for a master’s thesis. The project combines design and public horticulture; the two elements that brought me to this graduate program in the first place. My previous experience as an intern for AHS and my desire to continue to utilize the skills I gained from my undergraduate degree in landscape architecture spurred me to see this project through to completion.

A. Introduction Liberty Hyde Bailey was an accomplished man for his time, and his legacy is matched by few in the field of American horticulture. The mission of the AHS is to open the eyes of all Americans to the vital connection between people and plants, to inspire all Americans to become responsible caretakers of the Earth, to celebrate America's diversity through the art and science of horticulture; and to lead this effort by sharing the Society's unique national resources with all Americans.

Liberty Hyde Bailey fits perfectly into this mission because of his dedication to education, technology, community, and publication. As a result of his professional contributions, the American Horticultural Society, in Alexandria, Virginia, will include in phase one of the master plan a central axis that dwells upon the impact of Bailey on American horticulture. The landscape architecture firm of Marshall*Tyler*Rausch, LLC created the AHS master plan, and

1 incorporated a proposed Bailey Walk as the main axis: this design decision celebrated the beauty and bounty of Bailey’s legacy and reflected his diverse roles in American horticulture (Marshall, Tyler, & Rausch, 2004). My goal for this thesis project was to design an outstanding interpretive garden to honor Bailey’s contributions to American horticulture by incorporating research in a visual context. This project presented several exciting opportunities. First, it provided a way to give back to AHS and to use prior experience with master plan development in contributing more detail to the Liberty Hyde Bailey portion of that master plan. This thesis research presented the challenge of defining an interpretive garden and taking it one step further to actually design such a garden based upon research. The project provided a way to keep design skills fresh and current so that the researcher may pursue a professional goal of becoming a practicing Landscape Architect after graduation. Perhaps most importantly, this project offers a unique glimpse into the life and work ethic of a man truly worth honoring as the Father of American Horticulture, Liberty Hyde Bailey. It is the researcher’s sincere hope that this project might live up to the high standard set by this accomplished, yet humble man.

B. Justification Bailey’s numerous professional and personal accomplishments certainly warrant this honor at a nationally recognized horticulture institution. He established the first collegiate level horticulture department in the nation; he wrote over sixty books and edited hundreds more; and he documented thousands of plants now located in the Bailey Hortorium at Cornell, among many other professional achievements (Dirig, 1999). This project aims to bring more recognition for Bailey within AHS, other influential horticultural institutions, and the public at-large.

2 Of the gardens that acknowledge Bailey’s impact and influence, Cornell Plantations is the most significant; it was envisioned by Bailey and is located on the campus in Ithaca, New York. A commemorative garden also exists at Michigan State University where Bailey started the first horticulture department in the United States. Bailey is not currently recognized anywhere in the Washington, D.C. area according to Katy Moss Warner (AHS President), Adele Ashkar (Department Head of Landscape Architecture at George Washington University), Dean Norton (Director of Horticulture at Mount Vernon), and Holly Shimizu (Executive Director of the United States Botanic Garden) (2005). Bailey was active in the Washington, D.C. area, however, establishing the American Society for Horticultural Science in 1903, chairing the Commission on Country Life in 1908, and consulting on the development of the United States National Arboretum in 1927 (Dirig, 1999). With such significant influence in the Nation’s capital, establishing the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk at AHS headquarters is well justified. Holly Shimizu exclaimed her excitement when asked about building the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk (Shimizu, 2005) and other leaders in the Washington, D.C. area will no doubt feel similarly, and embrace this new space that will pay homage to the rich horticultural history that is Bailey’s legacy.

Liberty Hyde Bailey was full of zeal for life, hunger for new knowledge and passion for everyone to understand the earth, particularly farmers. These characteristics inspired excellence as the researcher developed the strategy necessary to complete this project so as to not only aid the AHS but truly honor the contributions of a great man.

3 C. Bibliography

Ashkar, Adele. 2005. Personal communication by e-mail. June 14, 2005.

Dirig, Robert. 1999. Liberty Hyde Bailey and ‘Things of the Garden.’ New York: Cornell University.

King, W. Alan. 2005. Personal communication by phone interview. July 6, 2005.

Marshall-Tyler-Rausch, LLC and Martinez & Johnson. 2004. George Washington’s River Farm: The American Horticultural Society. Pittsburgh: in-house Master Plan.

Norton, Dean. 2005. Personal communication by telephone. June 2, 2005.

Shimizu, Holly. 2005. Personal communication by e-mail. June 15, 2005.

Warner, Katy Moss. 2005. Personal communication by e-mail. June 5, 2005.

4 Chapter Two

II. METHODOLOGY

A. Literature Review and Background Research The first aspect of research was to examine the life of Liberty Hyde Bailey in light of his contributions to American horticulture, as well as to determine the validity of acknowledging Bailey as the “father of American horticulture.” This investigation involved an in-depth literature review, a visit to Michigan State University Gardens in Lansing (where Bailey is honored), and a visit to Cornell Plantations,(which was birthed out of Bailey’s vision for the campus). After learning of Bailey’s legacy and discovering the scarcity of commemorative gardens as described in this project, Washington, D.C. metro area horticultural leaders were interviewed to provide project justification; landscape architects were also interviewed and two AHS focus groups were conducted.

B. Human Subjects Review A formal request for exemption was sent to the Human Subject Review Board at the University of Delaware (see Appendix D1, pg. 86). A complete package of items sent to the Human Subjects Review Board can be found in Appendices D2 and D3 (pages 88-96). Full exemption was granted for the project as the research only involved people used for reference, not study. The letter granting exemption is included in Appendix D4 (page 97). The Human Subjects Review Board also nullified the use of informed consent forms for this study so they were not distributed.

5 C. Washington, D.C. Metro Area Investigation The following interview questions helped discover the potential importance of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk in the Washington, D.C. metro area, contributing to the justification of the project: 1. Which outstanding interpretive landscapes have you encountered through personal design, personal visit, or research in the Washington, D.C. metro area? 2. What are some “outstanding” characteristics of the gardens identified in your previous answer? 3. Are you aware of any gardens in the Washington, D.C. metro area that honor or recognize Liberty Hyde Bailey, and if so, which ones? The thesis committee helped to identify eight targeted leaders in public horticulture (or a related field) in the Washington, D.C. metro area who would be questioned (Appendix A, page 73). These individuals held positions such as Director of Horticulture, President of an organization, and Landscape Architect. It was important to contact individuals who were professionally well positioned in Washington, D.C. and who could easily and adequately answer the questions listed above. These leaders were subsequently contacted via e-mail as per those examples represented in Appendices A1 (pg.75) and A2 (pg.76). Only one individual was too busy to assist with research during the time frame requested.

D. Landscape Architecture Investigation Along with understanding the significance of Bailey’s standing in American horticulture, a need for a definition of “good” or “outstanding” interpretive design was agreed upon by the thesis committee for the purpose of this research. For

6 this portion of the study, landscape architects from all over the United States were identified to obtain a balanced view of design and address the question of what outstanding interpretive design is. Those invited to participate were identified through the combined efforts of the thesis committee. It was important to include a blend of personally-known professionals as well as individuals known by thesis committee members, and a few individuals known by reputation alone. It was also important to obtain perspectives from individuals at large as well as small firms, and from those firms specializing in interpretive design as well as those focusing more on the residential level. A matrix of the individuals interviewed in this section of research is found in Appendix B3 (pg. 81). From a list of eight individuals, seven agreed to participate and they are listed in Appendix B (pg. 77). E-mail constituted the first contact with the landscape architects (Appendix B1, pg.79). Following the first e-mail, a formal letter was sent to the landscape architects, explaining the project and inviting their participation in the research by means of a thirty minute (maximum) phone interview (Appendix B2, pg. 80). Follow-up phone calls were made approximately two weeks after mailing the letters, so as to schedule interviews during July and August 2005. The interviews utilized a speaker phone and a digital recorder to capture the conversation and allow for electronic archiving of the responses. Three questions were approved by the

Human Subjects Review Board: 1. Which outstanding interpretive gardens have you encountered through personal design, personal visits, or research? 2. What are some “outstanding” characteristics of the gardens identified in your previous answer?

7 3. In your opinion, who are the most prominent designers in the realm of interpretive gardens? All interviews were digitally recorded and archived; this information was utilized for designing an outstanding interpretive space commemorating Bailey at the AHS by creating a definition of outstanding interpretive spaces (page 20) and applying that definition to the final design. Exact transcription was not conducted because the information gathered was used as resource material, not evaluation. This interview-based information is composed only of direct and related responses to the questions asked. Side conversations were not documented for inclusion in the thesis results. Any information repeated by two or more of the individuals interviewed was also documented. The digital recordings of the interviews and the transcriptions of quotes used in this thesis are archived in the Longwood Graduate Program Library.

E. Focus Groups at George Washington’s River Farm (AHS Headquarters) Two focus groups were conducted to augment the interview data obtained from AHS staff and the River Farm Committee of the AHS Board. The Board focus group had five participants and the staff focus group had twelve participants. The Board focus group members volunteered to participate following a quarterly meeting. All available AHS staff members were recruited by Tom Underwood, an AHS staff member and a thesis committee member. A complete listing of participants in the focus groups is listed in Appendices C1 and C2 (pgs. 82-84). The following questions were answered during the sessions:

1) What are some signature Bailey plants you are aware of, if any?

2) What are some AHS needs for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk? (e.x. accessibility, navigation, etc.)

8

3) What is the most important thing you would like to see included in the design of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk?

4) How do you think people will best understand the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk? a. i.e. living history Bailey actor, interactive displays, plants, quotes, intuitive materials, etc. In both focus groups, the individuals were arranged in a circle so that all participants could see and hear one another easily. The focus group discussions were digitally archived and documented for inclusion in this study. Exact transcription was not conducted because the material was used as a resource not as research data. The digital recordings of the focus groups along with the typed quotes from those focus groups are archived in the Longwood Graduate Program Library. The information considered for this thesis was only that pertinent to the questions asked. Side conversations or points of clarification for the group were not included. The thoughts and concerns of the staff and Board members were important to the conceptual design the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk and are noted in the findings section.

F. Designing the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk for AHS Targeted interviews, focus group data, and the literature review findings formed the foundation of developing a comprehensive conceptual design of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk. The answers from the Washington, D.C. emails were copied into word documents and then exact quotes relating to the project justification were selected. Answers relating to elements of interpretive design from the designer interviews were transcribed from the digital recordings and were integral to the design process and to defining “outstanding interpretive design.” Feedback from the focus group questions was treated in a similar manner. The digital voice recordings may be requested from the Longwood Graduate Program secretary.

9 The Walk evolved through constant reflection upon the responses from all three facets of my personal research, as well as from Bailey’s writings. I kept track of my thoughts and reflections in my personal sketch book. The conceptual design was accompanied by vignettes portraying the designed area in use. The design was developed using the existing 2004 master plan base map of the AHS property known as “George Washington’s River Farm.” It was hand-rendered on trace paper during conception and the final drawings were produced on trace as well and then scanned into digital files. They were then reproduced on bond paper and then rendered in black ink, marker, and colored pencils. The completed color renderings were also scanned into digital files for incorporation into the thesis.

10 Chapter Three

III. THE INFLUENCE OF LIBERTY HYDE BAILEY ON AMERICAN HORTICULTURE

Liberty Hyde Bailey was pivotal in the development of American horticulture (Rodgers III, 1949). He published a number of works that still remain in important textbooks, including the six volume Standard Cyclopedia of Horticulture, and Hortus. Frederick McGourty, Jr. (1968) said that Bailey “Illuminated the

American Garden scene as few men have…he combined the best qualities of a botanist and a horticulturist at a time when plant scholars often had deep contempt for the practical benefits of botanical science.” Bailey’s contributions to American horticulture are many and great.

A group of Americans choosing to honor Bailey for his advancements is the staff and board members of the American Horticultural Society (AHS) in

Alexandria, Virginia. The AHS mission states that the organization exists to “open the eyes of all Americans to the vital connection between people and plants, to inspire all Americans to become responsible caretakers of the earth, to celebrate America’s diversity through the art and science of horticulture; and to lead this effort by sharing the Society’s unique national resources with all Americans” (Marshall-Tyler-Rausch,

2004). It is fitting then to name the new main axis of George Washington’s River

Farm (AHS headquarters), “The Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk.” This garden will be the

11 central connector for all other gardens on the property just as, the reader will soon see,

Liberty Hyde Bailey is a central connector for plant sciences in America.

A. Bailey’s Early Life

Born on March 15, 1858 in South Haven, Michigan, Liberty Hyde

Bailey, Jr. learned early to love plants. His mother had a flower garden that she tended to until her death in 1862. Young Bailey took over the care of it continuing to grow the same flowers she had grown. His favorite flowers in that garden were the

China Pinks (Dorf, 1956). Bailey was also influenced greatly by his father, Liberty

Hyde Bailey, Sr. Bailey Sr. was a member of the South Haven Pomological Society and contributed to Bailey, Jr’s. love of the apple. Liberty Hyde Bailey, Jr. grafted over 320 varieties that were displayed at a Pomologoical Society fair. He was discovered by William James Beal, a professor at Michigan State Agricultural

College at a gathering of the Michigan Pomological Society. Bailey, Jr. would continue on to study under Beal while attending college. After attaining the B.S. degree Bailey went on to work under at Harvard eventually returning to

Michigan State to teach in 1885. In 1888, Bailey was recruited by Cornell University to teach and eventually in 1903 he became their Dean of the College of Agriculture

(Rodgers III, 1949).

12 B. “The Father of American Horticulture” Bailey is called the “father of American horticulture” by many in the field of horticulture (Seeley, 1990 and Hsu, 2003). It is not enough, however, to credit him as such by simply summarizing his works. Bailey stated that “horticulture must reflect the application of basic botanical knowledge,” transforming horticulture from a craft to an applied science (Seeley, 1990). According to Robert Dirig (1999) at the Liberty Hyde Bailey Hortorium and , Bailey’s superlative accomplishment is the fusion of the disciplines known as botany and horticulture. There are several other major contributions to American Horticulture worth noting in the life of Liberty Hyde Bailey. His horticultural achievements in education, technology, community, and publication indicate the appropriateness of the title, “father of American horticulture.”

i. American Horticulture and Education Bailey understood the importance of education in the field of horticulture. A perpetual student, Bailey was always trying something new in hopes of advancing his beloved field. His purpose in establishing horticultural departments and Agricultural Colleges was to “stand broadly for rural civilization. It must include within its activities such a range of subjects as will enable it to develop an entire philosophy or scheme of country life” (Peters, 2004). In developing this agricultural viewpoint, Liberty Hyde Bailey established nature study education at Cornell in 1899. In addition to establishing horticultural and agricultural departments, Bailey instructed that 25,000 copies of Nature Study Quarterlies be distributed to teachers of agriculture in New York State. This program would later become the present day 4-H program (Dirig, 1999). On a theoretical level, Bailey initiated a school of thought that has

13 become central to horticultural education as we know it today. The interactive, hands- on approach to education, particularly in horticulture, can be directly linked to Bailey. In 1908 Bailey wrote in The State and the Farmer, “We must outgrow the sit-still and keep-still method of school work. I want to see children put to work with tools and soils and plants and problems.” Harry Boyt (1997) expands upon this statement concluding that “a child does not learn much when he is silent and inactive…furthermore Bailey believed that specialized subject matter instruction, while bringing potential benefits, would destroy democratic rural life, unless education cultivated students’ interests in the activities of the whole community”. Whether in regards to higher education, or primary and secondary agricultural education, Bailey’s views shaped American horticulture through encouraging active participation in the classroom and laboratories as well as encouraging an understanding of ones’ community at-large.

ii. American Horticulture and Technology Liberty Hyde Bailey championed technology during his career, paving the way for technological use in contemporary horticulture. In 1889, he was the first to use a camera to document taxonomic herbarium work (Dirig, 1999). Over one hundred years later, the use of photographic images remains important and vital to keeping accurate plant records. He also exploited the relatively new benefits of electricity saying, ‘on the whole I feel that it will be possible some day to use electric light in floricultural establishments to some pecuniary advantage’ (Hsu, 2003). His foresight was correct. Today, commercial nurseries, universities, and other horticultural institutions commonly use electric light for plant production and

14 research. Liberty Hyde Bailey was clearly on the cutting edge for his time, propelling American horticulture into the future.

iii. American Horticulture and Community Perhaps Liberty Hyde Bailey’s most unrecognized contribution to American horticulture is in the arena of community. He was as concerned with educating people in the agricultural sector as he was with their greater communities at- large. In 1908, Bailey chaired the Commission on Country Life at President ’s invitation, and his subsequent 1909 report to Congress details the conditions he witnessed within rural America. His report led Congress to establish the U.S. Parcel Post delivery system (still active today), a federal Cooperative Extension Service (still in use today), and a rural electrification program that brought electricity to rural agricultural communities (Dirig, 1999). In 1909 “there were approximately 5.74 million farms and the Nation’s rural population stood at just over 25 million people.” This number accounted for one third of America’s workforce (Peters, 2004). Bailey’s push to inform the government of the plight of the farmer accompanied his desire to make farmers aware of their relationship to the earth as its primary caretakers. In 1915 he wrote The Holy Earth, proclaiming that the earth is not exclusively centered around man but rather centered around itself, or “biocentric.”

“This new character, this clearer sense of relationship with the earth, should express itself in all the people and not exclusively in farming people and their like. It should be a popular character – or a national character if we would limit the discussion to one people – and not a class character. Now here lies a difficulty and here is a reason for writing this book: the population of the earth is increasing, the relative population of farmers is decreasing, people are herding in cities, we have a city mind, and relatively fewer people are brought into touch with the earth in any real way. So is it incumbent on us to take special pains – now that we see the new time – that all the people, or as many

15 of them as possible, shall have contact with the earth and that the earth righteousness shall be abundantly taught.” (Bailey, 1915, p. 23-24). Bailey’s ninety year old thoughts still resound clearly today. His foresight and passion for an informed agricultural community that understands its responsibility for earth stewardship clearly mark him as a public awareness leader within American horticulture.

iv. American Horticulture and Publication Bailey’s notoriety in American horticulture may rest best on his publication record. Within his written published works lie the details of the founding of American horticulture as well as some of Bailey’s most reflective thoughts. He authored over sixty books of his own and edited 117 others during his lifetime, in addition to publishing numerous articles and papers. His first published book was Talks Afield: About Plants and the Science of Plants (1885) followed by Field Notes on Apple Culture (1886) and The Garden Fence (1886). Bailey’s writings varied from technical botany to the more philosophical outlook that botany and horticulture could and should live in harmony with one another (Seeley, 1990). The Horticulturist’s

Rule-Book: A Compendium of Useful Information for Fruit Growers, Truck- Gardeners, Florists, and Others was published in 1895 and served to “codify and epitomize the best part of the scattered and disconnected horticultural advice and practices of the time” (Bailey, 1895). Not long after the above publication Bailey published the Cyclopedia of American Horticulture, a complete record of American horticulture at the turn of the century. The Standard Cyclopedia of Horticulture (1914-1917) was a six-volume expansion of the aforementioned publication (Seeley, 1990). Manual of Cultivated Plants was released to the public in 1924 with the last edition revised in 1951, three years prior to Bailey’s death. “Hortus initially published

16 in 1930, probably his best-known single book, was a pioneering attempt to bring together in one place information on all the plants cultivated in North America” (Elliot, 1999). Hortus Third (Bailey and Bailey, 1976) is still used today at the secondary school and college levels, as a resource for plant research and identification. While the aforementioned books tended to focus on specific species of plants and the science of horticulture, Bailey also wrote about practical topics. His Garden-Making deals with the “how and why” of making a garden in one’s yard (1898). In contrast to this ‘how-to,’ The Holy Earth (Bailey, 1915) is a philosophical exploration of man and his relationship to the earth. Bailey wrote about his passions and those writings have become the backbone of American horticulture as we know it.

C. Conclusion Bailey’s horticultural fervor for understanding plants and their landscape use has molded the way we interpret American horticulture today. Overall, Liberty Hyde Bailey provided American horticulture with a substantial legacy including accomplishments in horticultural education, technology, community and publication. The AHS has chosen to honor this man not only for his accomplishments but also for his vision. Bailey’s words and ideas will not only live on as the backbone of American horticulture but as the backbone of the garden that bears his name: The

Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk.

17 D. Bibliography

Bailey, L.H. 1898. Garden-Making. New York: Macmillan and Co.

Bailey, L.H. 1908. The State and the Farmer. New York: Macmillan and Co.

Bailey, L.H. 1915. The Holy Earth. New York: Charles Schribner’s Sons.

Bailey, L.H. and E.Z. Bailey. 1976. Hortus Third. New York: Macmillan Publishing Co., Inc.

Birnbaum, Charles A., and Robin Karson. 2000. Pioneers of American Landscape Design. New York: MacGraw Hill.

Boyt, Harry C. and Nan Skelton. 1997. The Legacy of Public Work: Educating for Citizenship. Educational Leadership. 54: 12-17.

Dirig, Robert. 1999. Liberty Hyde Bailey and ‘Things of the Garden.’ New York: Cornell University.

Dorf, Philip. 1956. Liberty Hyde Bailey: An Informal Biography, A Pioneer Educator in Horticulture. New York: Cornell University Press.

Elliot, Charles. 1999. The Pioneer of American Horticulture. Horticulture. 96: 6 (22- 24).

Hsu, Eric. 2003. Father of American Horticulture. The American Gardener. Vol. 82 (6). pp. 40-43.

Marshall-Tyler-Rausch, LLC and Martinez & Johnson. 2004. George Washington’s River Farm: The American Horticultural Society. Pittsburgh: in-house Master Plan.

McGourty, Frederick Jr. 1968. Liberty Hyde Bailey. America’s Garden Heritage: Explorers, Plantsmen and Gardens of Yesterday. 23: 82-83.

Peters, Scott. 2004. A New Day Coming: Liberty Hyde Bailey’s Prophetic Educational Vision. Lecture given at the Opening of the Exhibition: Liberty Hyde Bailey: A Man for all Seasons.

Rodgers III, Andrew Denny. 1949. Liberty Hyde Bailey: A Story of American Plant Sciences. Princeton: Princeton University Press.

18 Seeley, John G. Oct. 1990. Liberty Hyde Bailey-Father of American Horticulture. HortScience. Vol. 25 (10), pp. 1204-1210.

19 Chapter Four

IV. FINDINGS

A. Landscape Architect Interviews Design is a fluid process and is not always ideally mapped. Through interviewing seven designers across the U.S. something became resonantly clear: outstanding interpretive design is a matter of opinion. The interviews produced some similarities in the areas of signage, experience-based design, individual creativity, and use of materials. Therefore for the purposes of this study “outstanding interpretive space” is defined as a space in which a number of different means of communication are used to convey a message or story. These include but are not limited to: text, imagery, acting, digital information exchange, etc. The aforementioned qualities are illustrated well at the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, which, in the opinion of many interviewed, is the most outstanding example of an interpretive space in Washington, D.C. These similarities will be considered and if appropriate, applied to the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk.

i. A Reflection on Signage In the classical definition of “interpretive garden,” one will almost certainly think of a designed space inundated with signage (Robinson, 2005) (Signage for the purposes of this research is defined as any posting of information intended to educate or inform the visitor, this excludes signs which tell visitors where the bathrooms are and how to get to a particular place). While this stereotype seems harsh

20 at first, it was a large concern for the landscape architects interviewed who all agreed that signage in an outstanding interpretive garden should be kept to a minimum. Kate Day went beyond that to say using brief titles with bullet points, at best, is the most effective use if one has to utilize physical interpretive signage (Day, 2005). The most successful gardens rely on “actors” to convey thoughts (Marshall, 2005). Colonial Williamsburg and Mount Vernon offer living history interpretation, actors portraying a certain character from the past pertinent to that institution, answering questions and giving demonstrations. The use of materials to evoke certain feelings is also important (Taylor, 2005). The Michigan State 4-H Children’s Garden is full of bright colors to evoke feelings of play and learning. (Figure 4.1, pg. 37). Successful gardens also focus on the emotional experience of the visitor (King, 2005). The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial is an example of a garden-type space that clearly leaves visitors with a sense of sadness and respect for those who fought in that war and experienced the Great Depression. In the examples above, the interpretive signage is not linked to a gardens’ success, rather the other intuitive elements are the main contributors. Pertinent quotes, rather than dry information exchange, are valuable signage elements when creating an interpretive space (King, 2005). Quotations should be considered for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk because his writings and speeches are rife with profound insights, such as: “It is good to think of ourselves – of this teeming, tense, and aspiring human race – as a helpful and contributing part in the plan of the cosmos, and as participators in some far reaching destiny.” (Bailey, 1915). Chicago Botanic Gardens interprets plants in the greenhouses with small chalkboards allowing new information to be displayed as plants change. Rotating snippets of information, perhaps emulating the chalkboard signage approach of Chicago Botanic Gardens, also

21 should be considered for this project (Marshall, 2005). Changing the biographical information on a regular but random basis would ensure the continued enjoyment of the garden for new and frequent visitors, as well as staff. Overall what is learned here is that signage alone is not necessarily the only means of communicating to a visitor nor is it the most effective.

ii. Emotionally Evocative Gardens A close relative used to say she could only remember something if she were “emotionally attached” to it and, not surprisingly, most of the landscape architects interviewed concurred, particularly when it comes to design. “Sometimes you want to have someone leave with a feeling and a memory; that stays with the visitor” (Day, 2005). In order to “emotionally attach” a visitor to a garden, the design should first be immersive; that is to say that the visitor should feel completely absorbed by the garden, almost as though transported to another time and space. “Immersive experiences are best for telling the story without signage” (Smith, 2005). Emotions should pull the visitor through the experience rather than demanding attention with large, detailed signage (King, 2005), and immersive experiences allow that to happen. Monterey Bay Aquarium is an excellent example of this principle. Creatures and plants on exhibit flow in and out with the ocean’s tide in some locations, completely immersing the visitor into the ocean experience. Secondly, and closely related to the first point, “it’s important that the garden rely on the intuitive response of the visitor” (Robinson, 2005). In other words, a visitor should not have to be told what to feel or experience, the visitor will already have an internal sense of connection to a space and the landscape architect should allow for this in his or her design. In a well- designed interpretive garden, the visitor

22 will not be aware that they are in an interpretive garden (Marshall, 2005). Again, the Monterey Bay Aquarium achieves this. The August 2005 “Jellies: Living Art” exhibit is one example. The exhibit was dark, yet colorful, artistic, and interactive. It illustrated, through modern art and actual jellyfish exhibits, the aspects or shape and size, rhythm and movement, color and pattern, and an ecology alert were addressed in a fun yet educational manner. The researcher did not enter the exhibit with the intention of learning anything about the ocean dwellers however, left knowing all about their life cycles and their purpose in the ocean because of the intuitive design. When strolling along the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk, visitors should instinctively understand who Bailey was and what his contributions to American horticulture were. “The average person comes to have the experience, not to learn a whole lot” (Marshall, 2005). Bailey was a prudent man (Taylor, 2005) and the garden inspired by him should reflect that and leave the visitor with a meaningful, down-to-earth experience. Bailey himself noted, “It [a garden space] should be set off from every other area, and it should have such a character that the observer catches its entire effect and purpose without stopping to analyze its parts” (Bailey, 1916). The Walk designed in his honor must be a unique and memorable experience for all, utilizing the knowledge gained in this section that visitors should be immersed in the garden space and trusted to intuitively understand the meaning therein if designed appropriately.

iii. Creative License Perhaps most importantly, garden design cannot be formulated or predicted if it is to be understood. Good gardens are typically designed by a single individual, absolutely relying on wisdom and expertise from outside advisors, but mostly relying on his or her own “gut-feeling.” W. Gary Smith shares that sentiment,

23 “Gardens created by a single person with a single vision tend to work better than design by committee because the design is more specifically focused and uncompromised” (Smith, 2005). An outstanding interpretive garden typically results when the designer is allowed to design. For instance, Monticello has been noted as an outstanding interpretive garden (Day, 2005). designed his own gardens at Monticello and they tell the story of his property from his perspective, not his friends, not his family, but his. “When you are talking about communicating with people on an intuitive level it is poetic and it does involve artistic expression, there are other things going on, and on a much more personal level and having a step by step process isn’t going to help. Having a process helps you ask the right questions but it doesn’t give you the right answers.” (Robinson, 2005). Bailey also understood the concept of “garden designer as artist,” “It is the artist’s one desire to make pictures in the landscape” (Bailey, 1916) and he goes on to describe how one might use different plants and objects to compose a picture. Taking note that individual creative license is important to outstanding interpretive design, the design of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk at the American Horticulture Society will be a reflection of this thesis author’s insights and creativity based on this research process, including the wisdom gained from interviews, focus groups, and thesis meetings, as well as the interpretations derived from Bailey’s story.

iv. Use of Material The use of materials can make the difference between effective story communication and complete failure. Design provides the setting for materials themselves (hardscape, plants, water, etc.) and emotions are evoked as a result of that careful use of materials. Smooth, shiny granite and marble suggest starkness, and are

24 often used in memorials. Tall trees can invoke feelings of majesty and wonder as one stands dwarfed, in comparison. Water is often used to create soothing effects, as different textures reflect different sounds and shapes of the liquid. Bright colors invite children, visually echoing laughter and care-free spirits (King, 2005). One cannot simply neglect the emotions created by individual garden elements. “Design and plants go hand-in-hand, shared imagery is useful in conveying a message to all” (Johnson, 2005). Kate Day echoed the sentiment, saying “tell the story from the materials you use” (2005). Taking advantage of the universal language of materials and designing with purpose will allow the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk to be experienced with minimal signage, while quite clearly communicating the ideals and contributions of the man.

B. Relevance to the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk There are several conceptual similarities between the Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) Memorial and the proposed Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk. Both spaces celebrate the life and influence of one man on his profession and the nation. Both spaces exist in the same geographic region and therefore have shared audience potential. Both spaces tell stories. These similarities are important and should be considered and applied to the design of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: minimal signage, emotional experiences, individual design, and purposeful use of materials. The use of significant quotations is also valid. Bailey’s influence has been widespread and should evoke an emotional response in visitors. The garden should and will be designed by an individual with a clear intent and ethic. And lastly, the use of materials, as so powerfully illustrated by the FDR Memorial, can be used to convey the simplicity and intelligence which Bailey embodied.

25 C. Design Applications from the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial The FDR Memorial was dedicated on May 2, 1997 and occupies seven and one-half acres located on West Basin Drive, near the National Mall, in Washington, D.C. Boasting 6,000 tons of stone, water recycled at 100,000 gallons per minute, 300 trees and 3,000 shrubs, the FDR memorial attracts over three million visitors annually (National Park Service, 2005b). In the eyes of many interviewed for this study, this memorial conveys its message exceptionally well. Katy Moss Warner,

President of the American Horticultural Society said “By far, the best [interpretive garden in the D.C. metro area] for me is the FDR memorial [because of the] use of stone, water, sculpture, words, and plants. With these simple elements, powerful messages are conveyed reaching both the emotions and the brain. It is clearly a journey through time and experiences.” Adele Ashkar, Landscape Design Coordinator at George Washington University, agreed saying, “I have never taken anyone to visit that [FDR] memorial that did not come away with something valuable in their understanding of the man and his influence on his world. Some people will respond to the water in its many forms, others to the written engravings, others to the tactile information, etc.” Nancy Bechtol, Chief of Horticulture Services for the Smithsonian Institution, commented, “The National Park Service memorials such as the Roosevelt memorial are great because [it] interpret[s] all aspects of his life. His political career, his family life and the era in which he worked are all interpreted well with signage and staffing. It is a very holistic look at the person.” With similar consensus feedback from regional horticultural experts, all focusing on the FDR Memorial as an example of what they deem an outstanding interpretive design, choosing to focus on that memorial seemed self-evident for this project. The FDR

26 Memorial, perhaps not coincidentally, uses minimal signage, evokes emotion in visitors, was designed by one landscape architect, and uses materials effectively.

i. Signage at the FDR Memorial Signage at the FDR Memorial is minimal, often relegated to quotations carved into the large granite walls. This poignant use of words invites the visitor to experience the site rather than feel bombarded with too much information. The Memorial entry is the first place the visitor experiences this simple signage style (Figure 4.2, pg. 38). Figure 4.3 (pg. 39) illustrates the typical use of quotation in the space. The understated text in the landscape invites the visitor in for a closer look within the context of the other elements in the space.

ii. Emotional Experience The FDR Memorial design is also capable of creating an emotional impact on visitors. In figure 4.3 (pg. 39), the family mimics the emotion exhibited in the sculpture, taking a piece of the landscape and making it personal. Furthermore, the actual sculptures depict human emotion so vividly that the visitor is beckoned to understand the issues of the era. (Figure 4.4, pg. 40).

iii. Individual Design The FDR Memorial was designed by Lawrence Halprin, a well-known and accomplished landscape architect. According to the web site about this memorial, “the design of the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial brings together his [Halprin’s] desire to make environments through his art, emphasizing the beauty of the urban landscape and the participation and enjoyment of those who experience it.” (National

27 Park Service, 2005a) Although the Memorial also features the combined efforts of other individual artists, it was Halprin’s design that shaped the outcome of the space. Figures 4.5 (pg. 41) and 4.6 (pg. 42) illustrate how Lawrence Halprin’s personal vision has shaped the success of the Memorial.

iv. Use of Material The choice and use of materials for the FDR Memorial are the leading contributors to the Memorial’s success. The use of sculpture, stone, and water tell the story in a very evocative way. For some, however, there is some disappointment in the planting design as it is not at an equivalent level to other elements in the design (Robinson, 2005). There does not appear to be motivation for why certain plants are planted in certain locations, they are simply backgrounds to the stone and the water. Figure 4.7 (pg. 43) illustrates some of the most powerful uses of stone and water.

D. American Horticultural Society (AHS) Focus Groups After conducting the interviews with the landscape architects and evaluating the FDR Memorial comparatively, the last phase of research commenced. Before beginning the design process, it was essential to obtain the thoughts and ideas of some members of the AHS Board and staff to inform the final design concept. They are the primary stakeholders of this project because of their close attachment to the actual organization. In some cases, they will be the ones who fund the construction and upkeep, the ones who maintain the garden, and the ones who keep Bailey’s legacy alive for the benefit of future generations. Focus groups were conducted with each aforementioned group to ensure that the voices of those closely

28 intertwined with the garden space would be heard. In both instances a presentation of the research was given in order to provide background information to participants.

i. AHS Focus Group Questions The following questions formed the structure of the focus group sessions:

1) What are some signature Bailey plants you are aware of, if any?

2) What are some AHS needs for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk? (e.g. accessibility, navigation, etc.)

3) What is the most important thing you would like to see included in the design of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk?

4) How do you think people will best understand the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk? b. i.e. living history Bailey actor, interactive displays, plants, quotes, intuitive materials, etc. The first question was intended to illustrate whether or not any participants had heard of Bailey before and how much they actually knew about him. Of eighteen participants, only one knew enough about Liberty Hyde Bailey to attempt to answer the question. David Ellis, Editor of The American Gardener, identified palms, sedges, and brambles as groups of plants that Bailey spent considerable time researching. Another significant group within his study was the apple family. The second question sought to discover what design aspects were important for the continuous fluid functioning of the garden area. The third question looked to the participants to take personal interest in the project and see what ideas they could offer to better inform the final proposed design. And lastly, the fourth question revealed the ways in which the two groups wanted interpretation to be included in the design…..how they thought people would best take knowledge away form the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk.

29 ii. Necessities for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk The Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk is an important element for AHS. Several themes for design inclusion were revealed through the AHS staff and Board focus groups. AHS staff members agree that the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk is the clear entrance into the garden; every visitor thereby utilizes the path to get to meetings or activities within the grounds. Maintainable, accessible and innovative earth-friendly design techniques were also outlined as significant by both Board and staff members. Sharing the story of Bailey’s contributions to American horticulture also was promoted by staff members. These three categories have thus evolved into the essential building blocks of the design.

a. The Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk as the Entrance to the American Horticultural Society As stated earlier, one of the many revelations from the focus groups was the idea of the Bailey Walk not only as an entity unto itself but also as the main entry into the rest of the garden spaces throughout River Farm. Janet Daniels, Office Manager at AHS said, “It should be the beginning of the walk through the gardens.” Similarly, Peggy Bowers, Horticulturist, stated she would like the walk to begin as an entrance into a distinct garden space. One Board member, Susie Usrey declared that “the entrance to AHS [should] knock your socks off horticulturally.” It became abundantly clear through these focus groups that the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk should indeed be the thread stitching the whole property together, celebrating the connection of one great man’s accomplishments to one great organization.

30 b. Maintenance, Accessibility, and Innovation Because the Walk is the central convergence point within the gardens, attention must be paid to how the space is constructed, navigated, and communicated. First of all the walk should be maintainable and sustainable. When designing, it is always important to remember that while many people may be involved in the initial installation process, someone will ultimately have to maintain it as well. Sustainability plays a role in maintainability as well. If the garden is self-sustaining, maintenance will be less of an issue. Whereas if plants must be changed annually and paving materials disintegrate quickly, more maintenance will be necessary. Accessibility must be considered in the Bailey Walk. Nancy Busick, Youth Programs Coordinator for AHS had “concerns about strollers and wheelchairs in terms of all considerations [paving, path width, etc.]. Along those lines, Ann English, Landscape Architect at AHS, very accurately said “everything should meet ADA requirements.” A Board member added depth to this issue, believing that the Walk should not “just bring in children or plant people but should appeal to all people” making accessibility vital to the success of the space. Ms. Bowers echoed another major issue discussed in both focus group sessions, “one of my biggest concerns is to separate vehicle traffic from pedestrian traffic, to not have to have those two intersect.” Restricting access to vehicles while still allowing maintenance to occur will have to be a consideration within the final design. Innovative design was also addressed in both focus groups. The designer should “be aware of the environment, look at things which are permeable and would return things like water to the earth” according to Stephanie Jutila, Education Programs Manager at AHS. She went on to say that the design of the Walk should also “bring to light new advances in horticulture because that’s what Liberty Hyde

31 Bailey was all about: new advances and looking at things with a different angle and opportunities to educate in new ways, and I think we follow some of those patterns.” New technology has allowed advances in permeable surface areas and they should be considered for the Walk.

iii. Communicating Bailey’s Stories Should the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk be simply an honorary title, a pretty garden space with a simple bronze plaque acknowledging the father of American Horticulture? Or should it be an interactive garden space that connects themes from Bailey’s life to the themes that are still relevant today at the American Horticultural Society? This was the essence of the great debate during the focus groups conducted with AHS staff and board. Ultimately, this author agrees with Tom Underwood of AHS, who said, “I think it should be more than that [a garden with a simple honorary plaque]. I really think it’s important to have it not only be something that is an entrance feature and announces the character and quality of the place, but also tells the story so that people walk and as they leave they come away knowing who he is.” Ms. Busick continued saying, “And then linking that [Bailey’s legacy] to how that relates to us as AHS.” Telling the story of Liberty Hyde Bailey is crucial to the interpretive success of this garden space and should not be ignored.

iv. Important Inclusions for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk Each individual participant in the two focus groups had in their mind’s eye a unique perspective of what the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk could be. This was a particular challenge to accommodate in this research because design is individual and subjective, by definition. Staff and Board members were passionate about key

32 components such as safety, special events, and movement through the space. Other concerns were more biased: incorporating water into the site design, honoring Liberty Hyde Bailey American Gardener award recipients, considering themes such as chapters in a book, arteries in the body, or rivers and their respective tributaries. Some of the comments are highlighted below for consideration in the final design.

“I think that from a practical standpoint, we do operate at night. So I do think that is something, that it should be a safe and inviting place at night as well as during the day. Also, it has a potential role as far as special events too. The plant sale, potential other things involving lots of people, there might be ways it could work for a special event. Maybe there need to be gathering spaces or something to allow it to become part of events because it is right next to the lawn.” –Tom Underwood (Staff Focus Group)

“I think one of the things that is really challenging is looking at the conceptual master plan, the area designated for the LHB is extremely linear. And to create this multi-branched story, because he obviously went in many directions, I think part of your challenge is to not necessarily accept that conceptual line. It should really look at the entire sequence of entry. And like FDR, it’s a series of rooms, it’s a series of stories, to allow people to maybe branch off like a river network…to pull off and explore the richer sides of the story, and yet if they didn’t have time to do that they could move through the space. A really important design challenge is to create a memorable series of spaces that tell the story and then lead into the bigger picture of what we’re doing today at AHS. Don’t let yourself be limited by that line on the paper.” –Ann English (Staff Focus Group)

“I’d like to see people pulled off the path. Because what we have now people walk on the path and look and that’s about it.” – Jessica Rozmus (Staff Focus Group)

“Choosing materials to repeat in and unify your design is very important. I think it should reflect River Farm and set off plants you are choosing to highlight and the story you are trying to tell.” –Ann English (Staff Focus Group)

33 “I kind of like to think of it as self contained art space. I think that staying too linear, people without meaning to, have a tendency to rush through something like that, so I like the gathering spaces coming off of it.” –Sue Dick (Staff Focus Group) These thoughts were included in the final design. They convey the attitudes of the AHS staff and Board well and align with the goals of the thesis author/designer.

v. Interpreting the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk The last question the focus groups were asked to answer was: “How do you think people will best understand the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk? In other words, a living history (Bailey) actor, interactive displays, plants, quotes, intuitive materials, etc.” The answers were encouraging and fell into agreement with the results from the landscape architect interviews. Danielle Laday suggested teaching the visitors something about Bailey, perhaps in the visitor’s center video before entering so that there is a base knowledge upon entering the space. Peggy Bowers recommended using plants as the tools to teach, ornamental fruit trees planted in unique ways which the visitors can do at their homes. The learning should not stop with an individual’s visit to River Farm but the learning should continue at home with an interactive website according to Tom Underwood. Perhaps the most succinct way response came from Ann English: “The truly successful interpretive spaces have a hand-out, permanent signage, and an interpreter. That’s truly the best time-tested package. And I would encourage you to try to figure out how to best reach a variety of groups. Many different types of groups come here.” The Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk should meet the needs of the visitors and because the visitors are so diverse on every level a variety of interpretation is needed. Information should be given at a variety of times in a variety of locations to meet the needs of a variety of people.

34 E. Conclusion “Any garden is subject to interpretation, it’s whether or not the designer intended it to be interpreted [that] is the issue” (Johnson, 2005). Interpretive gardens are subjective and great ones have been judged to use minimal signage, create emotional visitor experiences, reflect designer creativity and successfully blend the use of materials. These attributes of interpretive gardens will be the framework for the design considerations of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk; however, the remainder of the design will flow from creative ideas on how Bailey can best be represented from this author’s perspective. The combination of information from the landscape architects as well as the AHS staff and board focus groups create a solid base upon which to design the Walk. As Rodney Robinson so eloquently stated, “the process doesn’t always give you a successful result, especially in designing, because it doesn’t take into account creativity from an individual perspective. And that’s the thing, [individual creativity] no matter how much process you have; you can’t guarantee success without that. The individual designer has to have the interpretation, the vision and expression that comes from [within] them” (Robinson, 2005).

35 F. Bibliography

Ashkar, Adele. 2005. George Washington University. Personal communication by e- mail. June 14, 2005.

Bailey, L.H. 1915. The Holy Earth. New York: Charles Schribner’s Sons.

Bailey, Liberty Hyde. 1916. Garden Making. The MacMillan Company, New York. pg. 121, 125.

Day, Kate. 2005. The Portico Group. Personal communication by telephone interview. August 9, 2005.

Johnson, Richard. 2005. Stephen Stimson Associates. Personal communication by telephone interview. July 8, 2005.

King, W. A. 2005. The Land Design Group. Personal communication by telephone interview. July 6, 2005.

Marshall, Missy. 2005. Marshall-Tyler-Rausch. Personal communication by telephone interview. July 5, 2005.

National Park Service. 2005a. Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. http://www.nps.gov/fdrm/memorial/archart.htm. September 7, 2005.

National Park Service. 2005b. Stones and Mortar: National Mall. http://www.nps.gov/mall/mortar/mortar.htm#fdrm. August 20, 2005.

Robinson, Rodney. 2005. Rodney Robinson Landscape Architects. Personal communication by telephone interview. July 14, 2005.

Smith, W. Gary. 2005. Personal communication by telephone interview. August 2, 2005.

Taylor, Jane. 2005. Personal interview. August 13, 2005.

Warner, Katy Moss. 2005. American Horticultural Society. Personal communication by e-mail. June 5, 2005.

36

Figure 4.1: The 4-H Children’s Garden at Michigan State University illustrating the use of bright colors to evoke feelings of play and learning.

37

Figure 4.2: The FDR Memorial representing the engraved signage style proposed for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk. (with permission, photo by Robert E. Lyons)

38

Figure 4.3 The FDR Memorial representing the use of quotation as proposed for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk. (with permission, photo by Robert E. Lyons)

39

Figure 4.4: The FDR Memorial representing the use of sculpture to evoke emotion. (with permission, photo by Robert E. Lyons)

40

Figure 4.5: The FDR Memorial representing successful design indicated by human use of space. (with permission, photo by Robert E. Lyons)

41

Figure 4.6 The FDR Memorial representing successful design as indicated by human use of space. (with permission, photo by Robert E. Lyons)

42

Figure 4.7: The FDR Memorial representing appropriate use of water and stone. (with permission, photos by Robert E. Lyons)

43 Chapter Five

V. DESIGN

“There can be no rules for landscape gardening, any more than there can be for painting or sculpture. The operator may be taught how to hold the brush or strike the chisel or plant the tree, but he remains an operator; the art is intellectual and emotional, and will not confine itself in precepts.” (Bailey,1916). This intelligent statement from the man honored in this project served as the platform for my ultimate design. The prior chapters set out the guidelines informing the end result and this design is the culmination of this designer’s personal reflections and reactions to the information gathered in this research.

A. Design Assumptions Before the designer could begin designing, she examined the existing AHS master plan (figure 5.1, pg.56) to formulate her assumptions based upon that master plan that initially informed the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk:

1. Vehicles will only travel along the walk for special event Valet Parking after the gardens close; No delivery trucks will be allowed on the walk, as specified in the master plan.

2. The existing Garden Shop building on the AHS property will be demolished.

3. The existing grade should be altered as little as possible.

4. Substantial vegetation should be saved when possible.

5. Vehicular traffic will only flow one way (east to west).

44 6. The Great American Lawn will be pastoral in nature and be utilized for plant sales and occasional outdoor special events.

7. The Family Discovery Garden will offer educational and fun family activities.

8. The Workshop Classroom will connect to the technology section for hands-on gardening, photography and art classes.

9. The Carriage House will be used by staff from science and education, who will teach the public (community) and administer member services (the AHS community at-large).

10. The Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk will begin at the Visitor’s Center and terminate formally at the patio.

11. The Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk will be a series of outdoor exhibits displaying particular ‘artifacts’ that represent Liberty Hyde Bailey’s contributions to American horticulture.

B. The Four Themes Once these assumptions were made, the design process commenced. Research indicated that Bailey’s influence on American horticulture fell into the categories of education, technology, community and publication. The designer decided that each should be represented within the Walk and, therefore, the next step defined those terms with their relationships in mind to better inform the design. The designer then conceptualized spaces within the garden, including specific elements for display and a recommendation for how to display them. Figure 5.2 (pg. 57) is the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk in plan view. Figure 5.3 (pg. 58) is the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk with assisting labels to serve as a key for other drawings. Figure 5.4 (pg. 59) is a full length section of the north face of the Walk and Figure 5.5 (pg. 59) is a full length section of the south face of the Walk.

45 i. Theme Definitions Stein (1984) helps to define all four themes presented herein: “Education” is “the act or process of imparting knowledge or skills for professionals and amateurs,” and can certainly be applied to the field of horticulture. “Technology,” in this case horticultural technology, is defined as “the application of knowledge for practical ends”. The third theme, “community,” is described as “a social group of any size whose members reside in a specific locality, share government, and have a common cultural or historical heritage.” The final term, “publication,” is “the act of bringing something to public notice.” This designer’s interpretation of these definitions clearly placed them in a particular order. Education imparts knowledge and once gained, it can be applied pragmatically via technology. Then, the combined efforts of education and technology have an impact on community. Publication binds the other three themes together. Especially true with Bailey, publication was the means by which he communicated knowledge, through education and technology, to the greater agricultural and horticultural communities in the United States.

ii. Education The education theme component of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk is the largest in scale, taking up approximately one half of the length of the walk between the first and last gathering spaces. It deserves the majority because education is the foundation upon which technology and community become impacted. Hortus is the inspiration behind the design of this space. It may be Bailey’s best known publication and was considered by many to be the preferred resource for North American Plants for many years. This space, as shown in Fig. 5.11 (pg. 65), contains a rotating podium with a bronze sculpture of Hortus on the dais. The half circle garden space contains

46 spoke-like pathways radiating from the sculpture out towards the path. All plants used in this space must be mentioned in Hortus. From the back of the garden space, as one faces it from the path, is a row of espaliered apple trees. Because the last edition of Hortus was published in 1976, these apples should be heirloom in nature, not the most recent . Immediately in front of the espaliered apples to the east and to the west of the sculpture, are shrubs that are found in Hortus and grow to three to four feet tall. The next radials moving towards the center of the design should be two foot tall perennials. The next set moving towards the center should contain a blend of annuals and perennials ranging from six inches to eighteen inches in height. The two middle sections should be evergreen ground covers not exceeding four inches in height. The very middle spoke should be a four foot wide brick pathway, and the remaining spokes should be stepping stones surrounded by evergreen ground cover material. Six trees should be placed on the other side of the path and should be unique in the area and also mentioned in Hortus. The horticulture staff at AHS should be allowed to participate in the plant selection as this space will be utilized by them for teaching purposes. The wealth of plant material here will allow for all types of education from formal classes to informal observation to occur, staying true to the theme of education.

iii. Technology The technology portion of the Walk is approximately two thirds the size of the education portion. Figure 5.12 (pg. 66) is a character sketch of the space. It consists of an original bronze sculpture with a likeness of Bailey leaning over a small girl, also in bronze, as she waters a plant. A wooden table will be on the platform with the sculpture having an “Earth Box” on it. The Earth Box is a technological feature that the AHS is encouraging and provides them a promotional opportunity. The Earth

47 Box should regularly change its display with annuals that the staff wishes to recommended as a new plant for home gardeners. The change over in this planter will signify the rapid changes in plant breeding and gene manipulation technology. Because Bailey encouraged the use of cultivars and actually wrote, The Manual of Cultivated Plants, this garden space will feature cultivars of all kinds. The west side of the garden space will feature plants which can be found in any garden center across America today. The apple espalier at the back of the west space will feature apples that can be purchased for consumption at farmer’s markets or grocery stores, for example, ‘Gala’ or ‘Fuji’. Immediately in front of the espalier will be common dwarf shrub cultivars, three to four feet in height. In front of the shrubs will be two foot tall popular perennials. The annuals will be featured in a potted display surrounding the sculpture. The east side of the garden space will mirror the plant types and heights of the west side however they will be the plants that the AHS staff views as the next big things. They will be plants not yet available on the market so that visitors can see the plants they know and the differences between those and the new plants yet to be released. The garden sections should be divided by a turf path, displaying turf that is new on the market. A brick threshold will separate the Great American Lawn from the technology space. This space creates unique learning opportunities for the AHS visitor and should encourage staff to continue learning about the newest technological advances as well.

iv. Community The Community section of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk is approximately one third the size of the Education portion. Although it is the smallest physical space, it is the broadest reaching. Figure 5.13 (pg. 67) is a character sketch

48 of the space. Education and Technology come together to make a grand impact on Community. Two touch screen kiosks are positioned in this exhibit space and will display the homepage for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk portion of the AHS website. One kiosk will have a child friendly home page and the other will have a homepage aimed at an adult audience. A sample of the type of kiosk to be used is seen in figure 5.14 (pg. 68). The website for the Walk will also be accessible remotely so that Americans across the country will have access to this space. The website will contain detailed information about Bailey himself and the Walk. Because Bailey created the forerunner of the Cooperative Extension Service for the national Commission on Country Life, the website should also have links to all state Cooperative Extension branches to be nationally relevant. The plants in this garden space will be native to the mid-Atlantic region in order to showcase plants for the populations able to visit often. The espaliered apple trees will line the farthest portion from the path; they will be varieties appropriate for the region. Shrubs ranging three to four feet high will be in front of the espaliered fence and in front of them native perennials one to two feet high. Native ground covers will line the pathway and native trees will line the opposite side of the path.

v. Publication Publication connects education, technology, and community especially in regards to Bailey’s impact on American horticulture. It is fitting that the portion of the Walk celebrating Bailey’s publications be the common connection to all other areas. This was accomplished by defining the actual path as the garden space which honors those publications. As the visitor leaves the Visitor’s Center, they are first

49 greeted by a circular space which doubles as a gathering node. A circle defines the space on the pavement and theme-related quotations from Bailey’s work are etched into the pavement. The node closest to the Visitor’s Center boasts quotes related to education. The next node relates to technology, the third displays quotes related to community and the last node reflects Bailey’s thoughts on publication (figure 5.15 [pg. 69] and 5.16 [pg. 70]). The quotations to be used are listed below by category:

Education:

“The teacher works with the raw stuff of human lives. And you, who teach the nature studies, you open a solid fact with every lesson, you ask the reasons why, and you lead the imagination far away.” Ground Levels in Democracy, pg. 27

“To feel that one is a useful and cooperating part in nature is to give one kinship, and to open the mind to the great resources and the high enthusiasms.” The Holy Earth, pg. 3

Technology:

“The technical knowledge we now possess requires the moral support of a stimulated public appreciation to make it a thoroughly effective force” The Holy Earth, pg 114

“All great engineers, chemists, physiologists, and physicists work in the realm of imagination, of imagination that projects the unknown from the known.” The Holy Earth, pg. 125

Community:

“I think it should be a fundamental purpose in our educational plans to acquaint the people with the common resources of the region, and particularly those materials on which we subsist.” The Holy Earth, pg. 111

“What is the purpose and what the value of our widespread teaching of science if not that its mental attitude is to be applied in all the horizons of life?” Ground Levels in Democracy, pg. 22.

50 Publication:

“It is good to think of ourselves – of this teeming, tense, and aspiring human race – as a helpful and contributing part in the plan of the cosmos, and as participators in some far reaching destiny.” The Holy Earth, pg. 1

“The greater the number of discoveries, the wider their range, the more widespread their publication, the greater will be the independent thinking of the people…” Ground Levels in Democracy, pg 11 One quotation from each section will be on the west side of the circle and one on the east with the text facing the outer perimeter of the circle. The portion of the circle where the text is carved is to be made of polished granite matching the color of the concrete used on the rest of the Walk. This will ensure longer wear for the carved text. The only plantings in these nodes are China pinks in the interior portion of the circle edging the walk. This is to continually remember the simplicity and beauty which first caught Bailey’s attention in his mother’s flower bed.

C. Design Overview Figures 5.6, 5.7, 5.8, 5.9, and 5.10 (pgs. 60-64) illustrate the final design for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk through the year in an axonometric view. The reader will note that the arrangements of people and shadows change in each drawing depending on the season illustrated. Its serpentine quality is a departure from the original proposed straight walk; however, this designer felt that a serpentine line would best display the elements within the garden spaces and create a feeling of journey and investigation for visitors. The use of the straight line espaliered apple trees gives the visitor that original linear sense as the path is explored. This work also represents the evolution of the Marshal-Tyler-Rauch AHS master plan of 2004.

51 i. LHB Walk as Entry to AHS The Liberty Hyde Bailey (LHB) Walk is the main entrance to the American Horticultural Society and the requisite path to the rest of the grounds. It is a simple space that is lined on both sides with apple trees and China pinks, the two plants which most inspired Bailey’s love for horticulture as a youth. The pathway to the Discovery Gardens joins the LHB Walk with no large announcement, just a simple way-finding sign. The first defining element of the Walk is a circle with two pergolas, one on either side of the path signifying official entrance into the LHB Walk.

ii. Shaded Seating and Gathering Spaces Providing a gathering space for large groups at varying points along the path was crucial for anticipated programming activities, as well as for accommodating comfortable resting places along the four-hundred plus foot walk. The designer chose to create circular nodes for such spaces at the juncture points between the themed rooms. There are two wooden pergolas, one on either side of the path, which will easily support vines. Underneath each pergola are two wooden benches for resting and viewing the different portions of the Walk. The area is delineated by a full circle in the pavement, creating an obvious space for gathering with a convenient option to also depart along the path. Granite further delineates the circle pattern where the quotations are integrated.

iii. Paving and Plantings The pathway paving must be strong enough to withstand moderate vehicular traffic but also be pedestrian. The designer’s recommendation is a high- grade stained concrete lined with red brick. The red brick edging to the path helps to unify the space to the rest of the property. The specifics of the planting should be left

52 to the horticulture staff. Each area will have a recommended theme and height requirements but the knowledgeable staff at AHS should be given a personal stake in the LHB Walk and an opportunity to contribute to the horticultural diversity of AHS.

iv. Pedestrian vs. Vehicular Traffic The Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk is first and foremost a pedestrian space during regular business hours. This designer recommends using grass pavers to separate the Walk from the entry drives at either end (see figure 5.2 [pg. 57]). TurfPave® grass pavers are recommended because the pavers themselves are hidden by grass and yet they can sustain use by pedestrian traffic as well as vehicular. Some samples of work done by TurfPave® are shown in Figure 5.17 on page 71. The grass pavers support sustainability by promoting good soil drainage and also create a visual and physical boundary of the Walk.

v. Liberty Hyde Bailey Award Winners The Liberty Hyde Bailey Award is given annually by AHS. “To qualify for this award, an individual must reside on the North American continent and must have made significant contributions in at least three of the following areas of horticultural activity: teaching, research, writing, plant exploration, administration, art, business, and leadership.” (AHS, 2006). Because this award bears Bailey’s name and ties in so closely with the themes outlined for this Walk, it would be natural to acknowledge the award winners at the end of the walk. This designer recommends that the pathway’s end be brick and that the award years and winners’ names be etched into frosted glass that would be up-lighted. (Fig. 5.18) Figure 5.18 (pg. 72) illustrates the desired solar glass paver. Some glass pavers are currently available through Solar Valley

53 Electronics. Solar pavers are preferred because they are more earth friendly and more economical than electric pavers. However, if the sunlight in the designated space is insufficient to power the brick, then electric powered pavers can be installed. This will create an elegant effect for evening events at AHS and honor award recipients without distracting visitors from the Walk as a whole.

D. Conclusion The Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk is an exciting new endeavor for the American Horticultural Society. Their mission lines up perfectly with the philosophies and contributions of Bailey to American horticulture. The proposed garden space design maximizes both the amount and variety of interpretation that AHS can do. The space is conducive to live interpretation, passive learning and active learning from home. It embodies all of the characteristics of an outstanding interpretive space as defined by this research. The design invites visitors to stroll through the space and learn at their own pace. There are opportunities to pause and reflect on Bailey himself, as well as to explore new plants. With the help of the landscape architects interviewed as well as the focus groups conducted at AHS the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk holds promise for the further education of gardeners and horticulturists from all over the United States. And it honors a man driven to achieve success and whose work reshaped the Country. The Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk invites you to come learn and grow.

54 E. Bibliography

American Horticultural Society. http://www.ahs.org/awards/2005_winners.htm. January 27, 2006.

Bailey, L.H. 1915. The Holy Earth. New York: Charles Schribner’s Sons.

Bailey, L.H. 1916. Garden Making. New York: The MacMillan Company. pp. 132

Bailey, L.H. 1916. Ground-Levels in Democracy. Ithaca, New York.

Solar Valley Electronics. http://www.solarvalley.com.au/solarpavers.htm. January 27, 2006.

Stein, Jess. 1984. The Random House College Dictionary. New York: Random House, Inc.

TurfPave® Grass Pavers. http://www.turfpave.com/apps.htm. March 27, 2006.

55

Figure 5.1 Existing master plan developed by Marshall*Tyler*Rausch for the American Horticultural Society November 2004. Used with permission. 56

Figure 5.2 The Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Plan View

57

Figure 5.3 The Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Plan View with assisting drawings labeled

58 Figure 5.4 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk Northern Orientation Section

Figure 5.5 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Southern Orientation Section

59

Figure 5.6 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Spring Axonometric

60

Figure 5.7 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Summer Axonometric

61

Figure 5.8 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Summer Evening Axonometric

62

Figure 5.9 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Autumn Axonometric

63

Figure 5.10 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Winter Axonometric

64

Figure 5.11 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Character Sketch of the Education portion showing the radial planting pattern and a bronze sculpture of Hortus

65

Figure 5.12 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Character Sketch of the Technology portion illustrating the planting style and a bronze likeness of Liberty Hyde Bailey with a small child watering plants in an Earth Box

66

Figure 5.13 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Character Sketch of the Community portion illustrating the educational kiosk and planting style

67

Figure 5.14 A sample garden kiosk by ProTech Kiosk for Garden 123. Photo from http://www.protechkiosk.com/photos/gardenH.jpg.

68

Figure 5.15 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Daytime Pergola Detail at the terminus of the Walk: the foreground illustrates a view of the incorporation of quotation into the pathway.

69

Figure 5.16 Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk: Evening Pergola Detail at the terminus of the Walk illustrating what the space could look like at night.

70

Figure 5.17 Details of the grass pavers recommended for the LHB Walk. This particular brand is TurfPave® and can be found at www.turfpave.com.

71

Figure 5.18 A sample of a customized solar powered glass paver with a smooth upper surface etched with the Award winner’s name and year.

72

Appendix A

APPENDIX A: WASHINGTON, D.C. METRO AREA E-MAIL RESEARCH

Participant List:

Adele N. Ashkar, ASLA Landscape Design Program Director George Washington University [email protected] 202.994.0047

Nancy Bechtol Chief of Horticulture Services Smithsonian Institute

Dr. H. Marc Cathey President Emeritus American Horticultural Society [email protected]

Michel Conan Director of Garden and Landscape Studies Dumbarton Oaks [email protected]

Tom Elias Director US National Arboretum [email protected]

Dean Norton Director of Horticulture Mt. Vernon Estate & Gardens [email protected] 703.799.8661

Holly H. Shimizu Executive Director

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United States Botanic Garden 245 First St., SW Washington, DC 20024 Tel: 202-225-6670 FAX: 202-225-1561 e mail: [email protected]

Katy Moss Warner President American Horticultural Society [email protected]

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Appendix A1: First Participation Invitation E-mail Sample

May 26, 2005

Dear Ms. Ashkar:

My name is Melody Gray and I am a first-year Longwood Graduate Fellow at the University of Delaware. I am currently working on my thesis, An Outstanding Interpretive Garden: The Design Journey of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk at George Washington’s River Farm in Alexandria, Virginia. My thesis committee has helped me to identify you as a leader, based your job and education, in D.C. Metro area Public Horticulture and I greatly value your knowledge of the area.

I have attached a copy of pertinent excerpts from my thesis proposal explaining the mission and purpose of my research. Please review this and then reflect upon and answer the following questions:

Which outstanding interpretive landscapes have you encountered through personal design, personal visit, or research in the D.C. Metro area?

What are some “outstanding” characteristics of the gardens identified in your previous answer?

Are you aware of any gardens in the D.C. Metro area that honor or recognize Liberty Hyde Bailey, and if so which ones?

I would greatly appreciate having your responses by June 13, 2005. The information you provide will be an essential building block of my research. Copies of the completed research will be made available upon request.

Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

Melody Gray Longwood Graduate Fellow 126 Townsend Hall University of Delaware Newark, DE 19716 Attachment: Thesis Proposal Excerpts

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Appendix A2: Participation Follow-Up Email Sample

June 1, 2005

Dear Ms. Ashkar,

I just wanted to follow-up on the e-mail I sent you last week regarding my thesis research. Ron Kagawa highly recommended you and I really do look forward to hearing what you have to say by June 13th. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me.

I have attached my thesis proposal excerpts to this email again for you convenience. You will also find the three questions I need you to answer below.

1) Which outstanding interpretive landscapes have you encountered through personal design, personal visit, or research in the D.C. Metro area?

2) What are some “outstanding” characteristics of the gardens identified in your previous answer?

3) Are you aware of any gardens in the D.C. Metro area that honor or recognize Liberty Hyde Bailey, and if so which ones?

Thank you so much for your help.

Sincerely,

Melody Gray Longwood Graduate Fellow 126 Townsend Hall University of Delaware Newark, DE 19716 (979)220-2149 cell [email protected]

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Appendix B

APPENDIX B: LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT INTERVIEW RESEARCH

Participant List:

Kathleen C. Day Senior Associate The Portico Group 1500 4th Avenue, 3rd Floor Seattle, WA 98101-1670 (206)621-2196 phone (206)621-2199 fax www.porticogroup.com

Richard Johnson, Principal Stephen Stimson Associates 15 Depot Avenue Falmouth, MA 02540 (508)548-8119 www.stephenstimson.com

Wm. Alan King, ASLA Principal and Owner The Land Design Group 3707 S. College Avenue Bryan, TX 77801 (979)846-2775 www.thelanddesigngroup.com

Missy Marshall, Principal Marshall.Tyler.Rausch The Grist Mill 101 Bellevue Road Pittsburgh, PA 15229 Tel (412) 931-6455 Fax (412) 931-7764 [email protected]

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Rodney Robinson, Principal Rodney Robinson Landscape Architects 30 Hill Road Bancroft Mills Wilmington, DE 19806 (302)888-1544 www.rrla.com

W. Gary Smith 4202 Wilshire Parkway Austin, TX 78722 (512)585-6368 [email protected]

Jane Taylor 6132 Shoeman Road Haslett, MI 48840 (517)655-1912 [email protected]

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Appendix B1: Pre-Participation Invitation E-mail Sample

To: Missy Marshall RE: Longwood Graduate Symposium Student Research Project Assistance

June 1, 2005

Dear Ms. Marshall,

My name is Melody Gray and I am a first year fellow in the Longwood Graduate Program at the University of Delaware. Dr. Bob Lyons is our new coordinator and he gave me your name and contact information.

I want to let you know that I will be sending you a letter by mail next week regarding my thesis research. The letter will explain important aspects of my research project and what involvement I will need from you. I am attaching a copy of my thesis research so you may preview my study.

Please be on the lookout for the letter to follow and I look forward to your participation in my research.

Thanks so much!

Sincerely,

Melody Gray Longwood Graduate Fellow 126 Townsend Hall University of Delaware Newark, DE 19716 (302)831-2517 office [email protected]

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Appendix B2: Participation Invitation Letter Sample

June 2, 2005

Ms. Missy Marshall, Principal Marshall.Tyler.Rausch The Grist Mill 101 Bellevue Road Pittsburgh, PA 15229

Dear Missy:

My name is Melody Gray and I am a first-year Longwood Graduate Fellow at the University of Delaware. I am conducting thesis research on interpretive gardens and you were mentioned by my research committee as a valuable resource. I would greatly appreciate your help in conducting my research.

I have enclosed a copy of pertinent excerpts from my thesis proposal explaining the mission and purpose of my research. It would assist me greatly if you could review this and then reflect upon the following questions:

Which outstanding interpretive gardens have you encountered through personal design, personal visits, or research?

What are some “outstanding” characteristics of the gardens identified in your previous answer?

In your opinion, who are the most prominent designers in the realm of interpretive gardens?

I would prefer to ask you these questions by telephone interview, if possible. The interview should last no longer than thirty minutes. I will contact you by telephone in the near future to confirm your participation and schedule an interview time. Your expertise will no doubt enrich the depth of my research.

Thank you for your time and I look forward to talking to you soon.

Sincerely,

Melody Gray, Longwood Graduate Fellow 126 Townsend Hall University of Delaware Newark, DE 19716 Encl: Thesis proposal excerpts

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Appendix B3: Designer Matrix

Designer Kate Day Richard Alan King Missy Rodney W. Gary Jane Taylor Johnson Marshall Robinson Smith Firm The Portico Stephen The Land M-T-R Rodney Independent Independent Group Stimson Design Landscape Robinson Associates Group Architects, Landscape LLC# Architects Firm Seattle, WA Falmouth, Bryan, TX Pittsburgh, Wilmington, Austin, TX Haslett, MI Location MA PA DE Title Senior Principal Principal Principal Principal Landscape Children's Associate Architect, Garden ASLA Consultant Firm Size 43 staff 20 staff 3 staff 14 staff 7 staff 1 individual 1 individual Firm Architecture, Landscape Design- Landscape Landscape Landscape Founding Specialty Landscape Architecture Build Architecture Architecture Architect, Director/ Architecture, Landscape ASLA Curator of Interpretive Architecture Michigan State Planning, Children's and Exhibits Garden and Design theme developer How I met Kate at Friend of I met Alan Missy is on This firm is Recommended Mr. Tom known the APGA* Dr. Robert during the board at local and by Dr. James Underwood National Lyons undergrad at AHS and Rodney Swasey, Gary recommended conference, Texas A&M led the teaches at is a former Jane for her June 2005 and master Longwood faculty keen insights continue to planning member of UD and connections keep in process to 4-H and touch there Liberty Hyde Bailey memorabilia

Matrix 1.1 Landscape Architect Matrix showing why and how individuals were chosen for this interview process.

*APGA = American Public Gardens Association ** LLC = Limited Liability Corporation

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Appendix C

APPENDIX C: AMERICAN HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY FOCUS GROUPS

Appendix C1: American Horticultural Society Board Members

Kurt Bluemel Kurt Bluemel, Inc. 2740 Greene Lane Baldwin, MD 21013 800.498-1560 [email protected]

Natasha Hopkinson 525 East 72nd Street #25F New York, NY 10021 212.327.2929 [email protected]

Carol C. Morrison Morrison Associates, Ltd. 650 First Bank Drive Palatine, IL 60067 847.991.2260 [email protected]

J. Landon Reeve IV Founder/Chairman of the Board Chapel Valley Landscape Company 3275 Jennings Chapel Road Post Office Box 159 Woodbine, MD 21797 Baltimore 410.442.2310 ext. 126 Washington 301.924.5400 ext. 126 Virginia 703.406.0802 [email protected]

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Steven Still 3383 Schirtzinger Road Hilliard, OH 43026 614.771.8431 [email protected]

Susie Usrey Vice President Customer Relations Monrovia Growers 13455 S.E. Lafayette Highway Dayton, OR 97114-8416 (800)666-9321 ext 120 [email protected]

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Appendix C2: AHS Staff Members

Charlotte Albers Growing Connection Project Coordinator

Laura Alexander Intern

Peggy Bowers Horticulturist

Nancy Busick Youth Programs Coordinator

Janet Daniels Office Manager

Sue Dick Executive Assistant

David Ellis Editor of The American Gardener

Ann English Landscape Architect

Stephanie Jutila Education Programs Manager

Danielle Laday Manager of Membership

Jessica Rozmus Intern

Tom Underwood Curator of Buildings and Grounds

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Appendix C3: Focus Group Questions

1. What are some signature Bailey plants you are aware of, if any?

2. What are some AHS needs for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk? (ex. Accessibility, navigation, etc.)

3. What is the most important thing you would like to see included in the design of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk?

4. How do you think people will best understand the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk? i.e. living history Bailey actor, interactive displays, plants, quotes, intuitive materials, etc.

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Appendix D

APPENDIX D: HUMAN SUBJECTS REVIEW BOARD

Appendix D1: Human Subjects Review Board Request for Exemption

April 26, 2005

Dr. T. W. Fraser Russell Vice Provost for Research Chairman, Human Subjects Review Board Office of the Vice Provost for Research 210 Hullihen Hall University of Delaware Newark, DE 19716

Dear Dr. Russell:

I am writing to request an exemption from full Human Subjects Review Board review for my thesis research entitled, An Outstanding Interpretive Garden: The Design Journey of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk at George Washington’s River Farm in Alexandria, Virginia. I have enclosed a summary of my thesis proposal that includes my research question and procedures for conducting this research. I also have enclosed samples of cover letters that I will be sending to different groups and the questions which I will be asking them.

I believe my research is exempt under Title 45, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 16, as listed in the Office for Protection from Research Risks Report (OPRR) as follows:

Research involving the use of educational tests (cognitive, diagnostic, aptitude, achievement), survey procedures, interview procedures, or observation of public behavior, unless (a) information obtained is recorded in such a manner that human subjects can be identified, directly or through identifiers linked to the subjects AND (b) any disclosure of the human subjects’ responses outside the research could reasonably place the subjects at risk of criminal or civil liability or be damaging to the subjects’ financial standing, employability, or reputation.

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Thank you for your attention to my request for exemption. If you have any questions or would like additional information, please do not hesitate to call me at 831-2517.

Sincerely,

Melody Gray Longwood Graduate Fellow

Cc: Dr. James Swasey, Co-Coordinator, Longwood Graduate Program Dr. Robert Lyons, Co-Coordinator, Longwood Graduate Program

Encl: Thesis Proposal Summary Washington D. C. Metro area experts’ cover letter and informed consent form Landscape Architect participants’ cover letter and informed consent form American Horticulture Society Staff cover letter and informed consent form River Farm Committee cover letter and informed consent form Thesis Excerpt for inclusion with cover letters Focus Group Questions

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Appendix D2: Thesis Proposal Summary

An Outstanding Interpretive Garden: The Design Journey of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk at George Washington’s River Farm in Alexandria, Virginia

I. Statement of Purpose Gardens have existed throughout the history of the Earth. They have been tiny plots of land which could barely feed starving families. They have been lavish displays of wealth and décor. They have manifested themselves as vegetable gardens, cemeteries, rose gardens, arboretums, herb gardens, public gardens...there is almost no limit to the form a garden can take. Some gardens in particular have even told stories. This particular variety of garden, the ‘interpretive garden,’ is the focus of this study. Interpretive gardens can communicate history and themes through plant selection and placement, furniture selection and movement through the space. These gardens have been memorials to events and individuals; play places for children; large private estates; and the list goes on. What makes interpretive garden spaces outstanding is crucial to this research.

For the purposes of this research an interpretive garden is defined as a designed space compiled of plants, furniture, hardscape, and possibly art objects telling the story of event, phenomenon, or person through design. Outstanding gardens are defined as gardens which have national recognition, high visitation, and longevity in existence.

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The purpose of this study is to examine outstanding interpretive gardens. How is it possible for a garden to tell a story? Which elements of these interpretive gardens make them outstanding? Who are the influential people in bringing these stories to life? What process does a garden go through to become recognized as outstanding in the field? Throughout this study several outstanding interpretive gardens stories will be identified and thoroughly examined, hopefully revealing common threads that can be applied to the design of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk for the American Horticultural Society (AHS) at George Washington’s River Farm in Alexandria, VA. The new main axis for AHS should tell the story of Liberty Hyde Bailey’s contribution to American horticulture, highlighting professional horticulture themes in his life through design, while also applying the themes uncovered in outstanding interpretive garden spaces already in existence.

II. Justification: Liberty Hyde Bailey played an important role in developing the field of horticulture in the United States (Rodgers III, 1949). He published a number of works still used as text in today’s classes, including the six volume Standard Cyclopedia of Horticulture, and Hortus Third. Frank McGourty, Jr. said that Bailey “Illuminated the American Garden scene as few men have…he combined the best qualities of a botanist and a horticulturist at a time when plant scholars often had deep contempt for the practical benefits of botanical science,” (1968). In scouring literature concerning American horticulture one will inevitably find Bailey listed at least as a source if not highlighted as a subject. Bailey’s life certainly had an impact on the field of horticulture during his lifetime. A synopsis of his accomplishments is listed in Pioneers of American

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Landscape Design. He assisted Asa Gray, one of the great Botanists of the time, between 1882 and 1884. He organized the Department of Horticulture and Landscape Gardening at Michigan State University in 1885: it was the first department of its kind in the nation. He served as Director of Cornell College of Agriculture, Dean of Faculty and Professor of Rural Agriculture, beginning in 1888. In 1908, Bailey was appointed to the Country life Commission by President Theodore Roosevelt. His findings contributed to the expansion of education and extension services at land-grant universities throughout the country. He wrote The Holy Earth in 1916 concerning environmental consciousness. He helped edit the four volume Cyclopedia of American Horticulture in 1902, the four volume Cyclopedia of American Agriculture in 1909, the American Garden magazine from 1890-1893 and Country life in America magazine in the early 1900’s (2000). As with most historic figures, it is not difficult to find the timeline of Bailey’s life and achievements; however, composing his professional contributions into an interpretive garden warrants more effort. Bailey has been called the ‘Father of American Horticulture’ by many (Seeley, 1990 and Hsu, 2003). It is not enough, however, to claim Liberty Hyde Bailey as the ‘Father of American Horticulture’ and simply summarize his works. The AHS recognizes this and has chosen Liberty Hyde Bailey as the focus of the central axis for its new master plan because of his impact on the field of horticulture. The research compiled in this study will be used to develop an outstanding interpretive garden. This garden will help to make the public more aware of Bailey’s professional contributions and hopefully help the organization gain more public recognition.

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III. Research Questions:

1. What makes an outstanding interpretive garden outstanding?

2. Which outstanding interpretive landscapes have you encountered through personal design, personal visit, or research?

3. What are some “outstanding” characteristics of the gardens identified in your previous answer?

4. In your opinion, who are the most prominent designers in the realm of interpretive gardens?

5. What are the professional horticulture themes in Liberty Hyde Bailey’s work?

6. What are the needs of AHS for this garden design?

IV. Goals:

1. To identify outstanding interpretive gardens in America

2. To examine themes from these gardens and apply them to the design of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk for AHS

3. To inform the horticultural community about the influence that Bailey has on it directly

4. To produce a design of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk, for the American Horticulture Society, at River Farm, in Alexandria, VA

V. Procedures and methods: First, a thorough literature review will be conducted to help identify themes in Liberty Hyde Bailey’s life and works. The literature review will lay the ground work for the design of the garden at AHS. Information from the literature

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review will pinpoint areas on which to focus and hopefully identify areas of Bailey’s influence in United States horticulture today.

A. Exploratory Design: This type of mixed-methods design is the most appropriate design for this study. The research will begin with interviews of landscape architects and landscape designers in the field of public garden design today to determine which interpretive gardens in America are outstanding and identify design themes from those gardens. Focus groups of some AHS staff and the River Farm committee at AHS may also be conducted.

1. Interviews with Professionals Purposeful sampling, selection of particularly useful and informative subjects, will be used for the interview portion of the study. The literature review combined with the knowledge of my thesis committee will help determine who will be interviewed concerning Bailey’s influence today. Designers from Marshall, Tyler Rausch; Rodney Robinson Landscape Architects, and The Portico Group will be interviewed because of their well-known work in public gardens. Any professionals with links to Liberty Hyde Bailey will be given precedence. The thesis committee will review potential questions below and assist in determining which ones are most important to ask. Questions for the phone interviews will be focused on outstanding public gardens which tell stories:

1. Which outstanding interpretive landscapes have you encountered through personal design, personal visit, or research?

2. What are some “outstanding” characteristics of the gardens identified in your previous answer?

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3. In your opinion, who are the most prominent designers in the realm of interpretive gardens? An email questionnaire of professionals in the D.C. metro area will be distributed to determine what stories exist in the area about Liberty Hyde Bailey, if any and how this garden space can contribute to the greater local community.

2. Focus Groups Stratified sampling will be used for the focus group portion of the study because it focuses on subjects from different groups of a population, which will be important as there are several subgroups of professionals in the field of horticulture. Staff and the River Farm Committee will be two focus groups centered around the needs of AHS in this process. The findings from the focus groups combined with the interviews will hopefully determine what themes are recurring in outstanding public garden design and how the story of Liberty Hyde Bailey can be most effectively and creatively told at AHS.

3. Procedures for data collection The interviews will be conducted by phone and will be designed to take approximately one half hour. The subjects will be asked to participate by professional letter with the questions to be asked during the interview enclosed. They will then receive a confirmation phone call to arrange an interview date and time. This will ensure that the interviewee is prepared to answer the questions adequately and that time will not be wasted. The subjects should be experts in their field and familiar with interpretive gardens. The focus groups of AHS staff and the AHS River Farm Committee will be conducted at George Washington’s River Farm, in Alexandria, for time and

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cost effectiveness. The thesis committee will assist in determining participants and dates of focus groups. In addition to compiling the data from the research interviews and surveys, site visits to any institutions outstanding interpretive gardens will be conducted. Reports of the visits will be written and any common themes will be documented graphically where possible. Cornell Plantations and Michigan State also will be visited to determine what is already taught about Bailey.

4. Data Analysis The data will be interpreted in relation to the selection of subjects as well as in relation to the design method. Both situations must incorporate showing validity and reliability, explaining the procedures, examining possible influences of the researcher, and appropriating of the norms.

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Appendix D3: Thesis Proposal Excerpts including in mailings

An Outstanding Interpretive Garden: The Design Journey of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk at George Washington’s River Farm in Alexandria, Virginia

Statement of Purpose

Gardens have existed throughout the history of the earth. They have ranged from plots of land that could barely feed starving families to lavish displays of wealth and décor. They manifest themselves as vegetable gardens, cemeteries, rose gardens, arboretums, herb gardens, public gardens...there is almost no limit to the form a garden can take. Some gardens in particular have even told stories. This particular variety of garden, the ‘interpretive garden,’ is the focus of this study. Interpretive gardens can communicate history and themes through plant selection and placement, furniture selection and movement through the space, all important aspects of design. These gardens have been memorials to events and individuals; play places for children; large private estates; and the list goes on. What makes interpretive garden spaces outstanding is crucial to this research. For the purpose of this research an interpretive garden is defined as a designed space compiled of plants, furniture, hardscape, and possibly art objects telling the story of event, phenomenon, or person through design. Outstanding gardens are defined as gardens that have national recognition, high visitation, and longevity. The purpose of this study is to examine outstanding interpretive gardens. How is it possible for a garden to tell a story? Which elements of these

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interpretive gardens make them outstanding? Who are the influential people in bringing these stories to life? What process does a garden go through to become recognized as outstanding in the field? Throughout this study several outstanding interpretive gardens stories will be identified and thoroughly examined, hopefully revealing common threads that can be applied to the design of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk for the American Horticultural Society (AHS) at George Washington’s River Farm in Alexandria, VA. The new main axis for AHS should tell the story of Liberty Hyde Bailey’s contribution to American horticulture, highlighting professional horticulture themes in his life through design, while also applying the themes uncovered in outstanding interpretive garden spaces already in existence. Goals:

1. To identify outstanding interpretive gardens in America

2. To examine themes from these gardens and apply them to the design of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk for AHS

3. To inform the horticultural community about the influence that Bailey has on American Horticulture directly

4. To produce a design of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk, for the American Horticulture Society, at River Farm, in Alexandria, VA

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Appendix D4: Letter from University of Delaware Human Subjects Review Board granting exemption

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