Videos

In addition to the videos below, you can also explore our photo gallery and multimedia presentations.

 

Olmsted Legacy

Olmsteds and the NPS

Despite both Frederick Law Olmsted Sr. and Jr.'s contributions to the National Park Service, so often their names are forgotten.

Lasting Legacy of Frederick Law Olmsted

This 8-minute presentation explores the ideas behind the design work of Olmsted, as well as biographical information.

Celebrating Olmsted's Yosemite Report

Over 100 people attended an event at Harvard University's Arnold Arboretum that celebrated the 150th anniversary of Olmsted's Yosemite.

California Forever- Olmsted Panel

Discover how the Olmsteds shaped the NPS and California State Parks and learn how Olmstedian ideas about green space and community building.

An Elm Returns to Fairsted

Watch and welcome a new elm to Fairsted's South Lawn!

Time-Lapse of Removing the Olmsted Elm

The community bid farewell to its "Olmsted Elm" on the morning of March 30th. The tree had to be removed due to it hazardous condition.

Women in the Office

An introduction to the women who worked in the Olmsted firm, their contributions and impacts.

Parks, Pandemic, and Mental Health

In the wake of the coronavirus, having open green space in a bustling city has become more important that ever.

Cultural Landscape at Olmsted NHS

Learn more about the landscape at Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site.

Ranger-Led Tour of the Olmsted Office

Can't make it to Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site for a guided tour? Visit the firm from home with Park Ranger Alan Banks.

 

Plant Chats with Val

Plant Chats with Val- Autumn Leaves

In this edition of Plant Chats With Val, we learn about the changing autumn leaves. What causes them to change colors?

Plant Chats with Val- Japanese Knotweed

Japanese Knotweed, considered the scourge of gardens, is a highly invasive perennial shrub that is now classified as a noxious weed.

Plant Chats with Val- White Snakeroot

White Snakeroot, Ageratina altissima, is a poisonous herb that can grow over 4 feet tall and is native to the eastern and central US.

Plant Chats with Val- Virginia Creeper

Val teaches us about Virginia Creeper and how to distinguish Virginia Creeper from Poison Ivy, which are often confused for one another.

Plant Chats with Val- Buckthorn

Today, Val shares some fun facts about Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), including its uses during medieval times.

Plant Chats with Val- Nightshade

This fascinating family includes everything from delicious potatoes and tomatoes to poisonous bittersweet nightshade and deadly nightshade.

Plant Chats with Val- Eastern Hemlock

Learn about the majestic Eastern Hemlock, Tsuga canadensis, which is the centerpiece of the carriage turn and the first thing guests may no

Plant Chats with Val- Spotted Bellflower

Val is chatting with us about the Spotted Bellflower, Campanula punctata, a delicate white flower with a pink or purple spotted interior.

Plant Chats with Val- Dogwood

Dogwoods flower in pink or white and are known for their distinctive bark.

Plant Chats with Val- Cucumber Magnolia

The tree was a gift from Charles Sprague Sargent, nearby neighbor, friend, and collaborator of Olmsted's.

Plant Chats with Val- Shagbark Hickory

It lives near the entrance to the historic Olmsted firm's offices and sometimes rains hickory nuts upon unsuspecting visitors.

Plant Chats with Val- Crabapple Tree

As our thoughts turn to fall and apple picking season is soon upon us, here is some food for thought.

Plant Chats with Val- Olmsted Elm

Here she teaches us about the history of the Olmsted Elm (an American Elm, Ulmus americana) as well as the Jefferson Elm.