Brandywine Creek Park
Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead?
Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead?
This series of photographs was taken at Brandywine Creek State Park in Wilmington, Delaware. Frederick Law Olmstead was definitely involved in the early stages of the design process, but it is questionable just how much he contributed. Regardless, Brandywine Creek Park is, at the very least, heavily influenced by Olmstead's works such as Prospect Park in Brooklyn, and Central Park in Manhattan.
Wilmington is not a major city, and certainly not famous for it's beauty or architecture - this makes Brandywine Creek the jewel in her crown. Winding carriage paths provide numerous fresh vistas, and the Brandywine is crossed by a number of beautiful bridges spanning well over a hundred years, and covering a wide range of styles. There is an overflow canal running parallel to the creek, and when the air is still, it looks like a winding, mile long reflecting pool.
One of my favorite elements in the park is possibly the most controversial: the Brandywine Zoo (not pictured). It is a small Victorian-styled zoo, with handsome cast iron works. The zoo dates from another time, when large natural habitats simply weren't seen in zoological parks, and this has been a concern for anyone concerned for animal welfare. I have mixed feelings myself, as the Brandywine Zoo is simply an excellent place to take younger kids (my daughters have always loved it).
