rakerman: Olmstead lived from 1822-1903, William Henry Jackson from 1843-1942. They both lived extraordinary, varied lives in the 19th Century, when today's United States was still very much a frontier in the west, and for a time at war with itself. Their paths intersect at Yosemite, whose protection owes much to the understanding of nature and political connections of Olmstead, and the amazing photographs of Jackson.… (mere)

rakerman: Rybczynski's biography is much more detailed, but has the dubious technique of occasional fictional imaginings of Olmstead's thoughts. Martin's biography moves at a quicker pace and gives a sense of the broad sweep of Olmstead's life. Together they give a good picture.… (mere)