Last updated: June 18, 2024
Place
W.S. Shipley Estate
Olmsted Archives
Quick Facts
Location:
York, PA
Significance:
Olmsted Designed Estate
OPEN TO PUBLIC:
No
In 1931, William S. Shipley hired Olmsted Brothers to design the elegant grounds of his mansion in York, Pennsylvania. With 11.7-acres to work with, Olmsted Brothers were challenged to cohesively fit a quarry, which already dominated the site, into their plans. Olmsted Brothers suggested that the quarry be utilized to create a sunken garden.
Surviving plans show Olmsted Brothers’ focus on elevation details on the grounds, such as creating a pond and an overlook section within the sunken garden. In addition to the sunken garden, Olmsted Brothers also recommended a formal and rock garden, as well as large sections set aside to grow vegetables and fruit.
Source: "Colossal Gardens Planned for Shipley Mansion Near Summit in Wyndham Hills," InYork
For more information and primary resources, please visit:
Olmsted Research Guide Online
Olmsted Archives on Flickr
Surviving plans show Olmsted Brothers’ focus on elevation details on the grounds, such as creating a pond and an overlook section within the sunken garden. In addition to the sunken garden, Olmsted Brothers also recommended a formal and rock garden, as well as large sections set aside to grow vegetables and fruit.
Source: "Colossal Gardens Planned for Shipley Mansion Near Summit in Wyndham Hills," InYork
For more information and primary resources, please visit:
Olmsted Research Guide Online
Olmsted Archives on Flickr