The history of Central Park

Central Park receives millions of visitors every year, tourists and locals alike. A DESCRIPTION OF THE NEW YORK CENTRAL PARK, published in 1869, is recognized today as the most important book about the park to appear during its early years. On June 21st, art historian Maureen Meister will discuss the new facsimile edition of this classic work on the city's architectural masterpiece.

While the original volume offers much to delight the modern reader, Meister will shed light on how the book served a greater purpose. It was published to champion Olmsted and Vaux and to advocate for their vision—a dream for a magnificent public park that has come to be regarded as New York City's achievement and a model for the nation.