Frederick Law Olmsted Subject File Parks 3 Montreal, Canada Mt. Royal Park 1876 Mount Royal Park, Private Engineer's Office, Montreal, 23rd Decr 1876 F. L. Olmsted Esqr Dear Sir Yours of the 16th Inst received - With regard to my leaving the mountain there is no work going on and it may be some time before anything will be done, there being great opposition to laying out any more money on the Park at present_ I am going back to the Road Department to take charge of the work I left last may to go to the Park and have no intention of again taking charge of the Park, for I have lost two good opportunitieswhile I was at it -- There is nothing of importance that I could suggest to do and I prefer to take my appointment at Craig Street Tunnel and in the meantime should I see a good opening I will accept it, for I think the Commissioners have not treated me well -- I tender you my sincere thanks for the interest you have taken in me I am dear Sir yours truly W.J. Picton P.S. I do not wish the Comrs to know my [views] intentions W.J.P.23 Dec 76Mount Royal Park. Correspondence [with Picton.] Arranged by date. - [1876] - [*Important letters received. P.P.S Decr. 1904*]CITY SURVEYOR'S OFFICE CONCORDIA SALUS CORPORATION OF MONTREAL Montreal 6th January 1876 F.L. Olmsted Esqr Dear Sir I send you this day by Express a tracing of the Contours in Park property. The contours on the previous tracing are the same as on this one with the exception of near the Cote des Neiges road where some new contours have been run in and the Park boundary surveyed — I have2 I have put on the roads made by Mr McGibbon on the top of the mountain and have also shown by a dotted line the edge of the brushwood & as well as the trees near the SW Corner of the cemetery by request of Mr Radford -- I have marked the diameter of the largest trees the others average from 1/2 ft to 1 ft diameter -- The commissioners think that it would be preferable to wait till Spring before carrying out Mr Radford's instructions with regard to the slopes of the embankments bc The work has gone too far to make the retaining wall as suggested in your letter of the 28th ult; With reference to cutting into 3 the hill at the back of Sir H. Allans -- I ran the line to have as little cutting (and near our boundary) as possible, thinking that it would be rock excavation -- and when they made the roadway we found that it was all loose stones, and that the whole slope of the hill would come away next spring, owing to our having cut into it at the foot -- It was then decided to go farther in and take down all the loose portion it being good for macadamizing the road -- [I have] I have drawn a blue pencil line on the tracing (from where the road leaves the Redpath property) to show you where4 I think a bridle road may be easily made over the mountains and to join the main avenue [at] behind Mr McGibbon's house -- I have shewn on the tracing a proposed street called Pine Avenue -- It is to leave the Cote des Neiges Road and run eastward to head of Peel st; thence in front of Sir H Allans to near University st where it will curve and join the Hotel Dieu st produced and on to St Lawrence st. I will send you a tracing and section of Pine Avenue and the extension of University St; in about a week, I have the Surveying &c of both in hands -- If we run in your first curve from Peel st as far as shewn on the plan it will give us a cutting of5 ten feet and also interfere with the proposed Pine Avenue — I have received instructions to get the contour plan photographed in this city & will have the special tracing made as soon as possible. I remain Your Obedient Servant W.J. PictonW.J. Picton 6 Jan 768th Jan. 1876 W.J. Picton Esq C.E. My Dear Sir; I have your letter of 6th ins! and the map therin reffered to. I suspect that you have sent the map under some misapprehension of my requirements- In my first conference with the commission in Montreal I advised them that a much better plan [of] could be made for the park if in studying it I was free to vary some what from the boundaries of their property, as then held and I explained particularlyI have from the first expressed and have often expressed my unwillingness to prepare [a] any parts of the plan in advance of the whole or without the whole of the topographical map the advantage of [extending the field in] a moderate extension in the direction of the Cote des Neiges Cemetery. It was agreed that the [survey] map to be provided me should [be extended in] include the region in question but lest it should [increase] lead the owners to advance the price of the property that nothing should be said publicly of this intention. I was requested for this reason to omit mention of it in my written communication to the Commission on the subject and did so. I [then] went at the time, however, on the ground with Mr Macquistun pointing out what should be included in the survey and it was distinctly agreed that the survey was to cover it. I have from the first strongly objected to preparing return it that you may add the survey of the ground in question- Until I have that I can know nothing definitely of what I should do upon any part of the rest, as my plan [would certainly] for other parts would be quite differently conceived if I left that out of consideration. You will remember that I went on the ground with you in August, pointing out what must be covered. I do not expect to include all that you survey in my plan but X X I need to know the topography just here beyond the ground to be [included] laid out in order to determine where the line should be drawn. ¶At the time I was engaged in planing the entrance from Peel St, I wrote [very fully] particularly asking as to the proposed road now designated Pine Avenue. No map that I received and no information then furnished me showed such a road and I was [practically] in effect instructed [to] that [no road then was to be] none [What your s]In my [road] would be required there. If it is determined [to have it, the abandonment of my] that there must be one, then my plan for an [entrance] approach to the mountain road [must, of course, be] from Peel Street needs, of course to be abandoned. If you are at work on the line of that approach at any point, I recommend an immediate stoppage,76 Picton 8 Jan CITY SURVEYOR'S OFFICE CONCORDIA SALUS CORPORATION OF MONTREAL Montreal 11th Jany 1876 F. L. Olmsted Esqr. Dear Sir I send herewith a small plan of the Park with the boundary colored blue -- and the Tompkins property colored red -- I think I omitted to color the Park boundary on the Tracing -- I am dear Sir Your obedt Servant W. J. Picton W J Picton 11 Jan 76 CITY SURVEYOR'S OFFICE CONCORDIA SALUS CORPORATION OF MONTREAL Montreal 25th Jany. 1876 F. L Olmsted Esq. Dear Sir I send herewith tracing of Profile of Pine Avenue -- which I believe is to be 60 ft wide -- The Points A & B marked on the tracing is the same grades that we have set out for the Park road. Mr. Nelson desired me to draw your attention to these points -- I am pushing on theSurvey of the extended property as fast as possible and have stopped [to] the Survey of University St for a few days to allow me to get the contour plan finished [as] I think that your proposed route for University St will be the best that we can get. I omitted to acknowledge the receipt of the tracing you returned before this -- I would not have sent it to you only Mr Radford requested me to do so. I am, dear Sir Yours truly W J PictonWJ Picton 25 Jan 76 29 Jan 1876 W. J. Picton, [Esq] P.C.E. Dear Sir; Yours of the 25 inst. with profile of Pine Avenue is received. Very respectfully,W. J. Picton 29 Jan 76 CITY SURVEYOR'S OFFICE CONCORDIA SALUS CORPORATION OF MONTREAL Montreal 4th March 1876 F.L. Olmsted Esqr. Dear Sir I have sent to you by Ex-press, map of all contours surveyed including the properties of D Ross, J Tompkins &c -- I wanted to extend the survey as far as possible towards the Cote des Neiges Cemetery, hence the delay in sending the plan -- I had no authority to carry on the survey outside thePark boundary till after Mr Radford's visit since which time I have pushed the work but was greatly retarded by deep snow & stormy weather -- I have put on the tracing the principal survey lines with the chainage marked on them (and will have them all restored as soon as the snow has gone) to enable you to identify the features on the ground -- I have also sent you by request of Mr Radford a plan of the Park & surrounding country, traced from the Ordnance plan -- The contour plan is now in the hands of the Photographer to be reduced and printed & I expect to be able to send you a copy in about a week I hope the tracing sent will give you satisfaction -- I am dear Sir Your Obedt. Servant W. J. PictonW. J. Picton 4 Mch 76 16 Mch 1876 [W. J. Picton C.E.] My Dear Sir; I enclose herewith a tracing of the topographical map. Will you please have traced upon it [and and return[ed] to me as soon as possibly] the outlines of each of the roads which have been established or determined on the property, viz. the road from Bleury Street [to the] as far up the mountain as it has been graded; theentrance road from Peel street and the entrance road from [the reservoir or] University Street, showing variation from the lines proposed by me, what part of each road has been graded; how much not graded you consider as determined and how much remains as an unadopted project. To Picton 16 Mch 1876 18 March 1876 Mr. W.J. Picton, C.E. City Surveyor's Office, Montreal Dear Sir; I enclose a map on which you will find indicated [a proposition such] a change [of] in the boundaries [of the park property] of the south west part of the park [bound] property [as may decide to answer the purpose]. Will you please submit it to M. Nelson and ask his opinion as to [the practicabe] its feasibility. [of such such a change.] What is essential to be gained are the several [pieces] plats at C.D. and E. The [pieces] plats at [A.] B. F. and G [are of] will be of little value in the park plan, and B. and F. will be desirably sold, or exchanged for that which is wanted [The line crossing the Ross property]More of the Ross property on the high ground back of G. would be desirable. The [piece] plat A. is not particularly [desirable to be acquired and] wanted. I [ha] propose to take it only because I suppose that Mr. Ross may prefer to have a straight boundary [and I thought that] and it may perhaps it [might] be arranged to give him the [piece] plat B in exchange for A and C. Please indicate any change in the line which Mr. Nelson may think would [better it, which] facilitate the [essential] object of securing at least as much land to the park at C.D. & E. as I have indicated on the map. So much time has passed [the] since my first [study of the][any object to this] as this would answer the purpose of the waterworks and whether a body of water more than two acre in extent with an average depth of 6 feet is required. The true [?] on the map sent is intended to indicate the bearing of that portion of the Lake of the Two Mountains seen from The Pines. If I am wrong, please give the correct bearing.To W.J. Picton 18 Mch 1876 Montreal 31st March 1876 F.L. Olmsted Esqr Dear Sir I have sent you today the Reduced Contour plan. I was disappointed by the Printer and did not get the copy till the afternoon of the 29th. Inst. I also send the the tracing with the road on it, we have deviated very little from your design. The road is graded the whole length from Bleury St to where it crosses into the Meadow in front of the superintendents House (the average width is 30' ft.) and about ½ of it metalled, the Peel St entrance is also graded & part met[t]alled -- the slopes are not made and the curves require trimming up.-- I have shown by a red line on the Small map the direction of the Lake of Two Mountains from the Pines and another red line at the Ross property (which Mr Nelson is making arrangements about obtaining) Mr Ross' Conservatory is in the way of taking the line as you marked out - and I have extended it to 200 ft instead of 100 ft at the far endto make the area of the property required and that to be given to Mr Ross nearly equal. I will send you tomorrow some levels of Test pits (taken for waterworks department) in the Meadow in front of Superintendents House I am getting them copied out of their books. I am dear Sir Yours truly W.J Picton [*W.J. Picton 31 Mch '76*] CITY SURVEYOR'S OFFICE CONCORDIA SALUS CORPORATION MONTREAL Montreal 3rd April 1876 F. L. Olmstead Esqr. Dear Sir Enclosed you will find a tracing of Test pits numbered from 1 to 61 also a list of levels taken at them for a proposed Reservoir - Mr Nelson has the alteration of the park boundary in hand I Am dear Sur yours &c W. J. PictonW. J. Picton 3 Apr. 1876. 5 Apl. 1876 W J. Picton; Dear Sir Your note of March 31st and the maps referred to [are received] have been received. [at this office] Very respectfully yours J. C. Olmsted W. J. Picton 5 Apl-- 1876. 5th. April. W. J. Picton, C.E. Dear Sir; In your letter accompanying the tracing of test pits you say nothing as to the desired capacity of the reservoir, as requested [in our M] by [my father] Mr. Olmsted in his note of [the] 18th March. [Please to do] He desires that you will do so as soon as convenient. Very respectfully yours J.C.O.W. J. Picton 5 Apl. 1876. Acknowledged this to Picton J.C.O. CITY SURVEYOR'S OFFICE CONCORDIA SALUS CORPORATION OF MONTREAL Montreal 10th April 1876 F. L. Olmsted Esqr. Dear Sir The capacity of the proposed Reservoir has to be 48 millions of gallons or an area of about 27 acres. Mr Lesage said that anything less than 30 millions of gallons or an area of about 20 acres would be no use to them -- also that the proposed size is about 100 feet too high for themMr Nelson desired me to inform you that if you do not decide on making Reservoir there, that some arrangements will have to be made for draining [that] it -- also that we will require a great deal of Earth for the slopes of the new road -- If we obtain the Tompkins property it will be easy to drain through it for the general fall is that way I am dear Sir Yours truly W. J. PictonW.J. Picton 10 Apl. [To Mr Picton] 24th April 1876. Dear Sir; I wrote on the 18th March asking for an opinion [nice meaning an] as to the feasibility of certain proposed boundary lines meaning, as I afterwards explained to Mr Nelson, [an off-hand opinion as I] simply, to ascertain if any [obvious] obviously conclusive objection exisistent to my suggestions. And on the 28th [March I wrote asking if] [to ascertain what difficulty had led I wrote to ascertain what I could depend] I wrote for an explanation of the change in the boundaries between University Street and the [mountain] Small Pox hospital. Since then [I have] Mr Nelson has [written] advised me that you would answer [all] both these inquiries and also [advised] that you would inform me as to [further I] a change to be made in the [last map as to the] location of [the] Pine Avenue. [Until I] [Of course you understand that I can do that I can do nothing while]Mr. Nelson thinks [I] the ground will not be settled much before the middle of May, when he wants a visit from meI shall need to have [several] at least a [day's] week's notice in order to arrange my engagements [before] to admit of the journey, and I do not wish to come until after I have made a complete study of the boundaries and approach roads, which I shall not do until I hear from you as promised. The changes which have already been made & the attempting to proceed on imperfect map has wasted a great deal of my time.I send you herewith a tracing to fit your printed map, [and] upon which you will find [see] a series of points indicated thus: o Will you please have a stake[s] set [on] at each of these points and notify me when [it] this has been done. If there is much danger that [the] stakes if set [will] would be removed before I come, [up][When I have completed my study I shall ask you to sit stakes.] You can use short stakes driven as near to the surface as you think necessary and blaze or mark with paint the nearest tree. Otherwise white topped stakes standing two feet or more above ground will be desirable. The stakes should [also] be numbered, and lettered as indicated.W. J. Picton 24 April, 1876. CITY SURVEYOR'S OFFICE CONCORDIA SALUS CORPORATION OF MONTREAL Montreal 8th May 1876 F L Olmsted Esqr Dear Sir You must excuse my apparent negligence. in not sending you the information required -- The reason is as follows viz We made a survey of the continuation of University St to the Main Avenue & the proprietors objected to it, since then we have made 3 or 4 different surveys and thepresent route as shewn on the accompanying tracing [has] was [been] adopted on the 6th Inst. The depth of the snow was also a cause of delay. There is no alteration in the location of Pine Avenue but the width has been changed from 60' to 80 ft. I am getting the points which you require set out on the ground. I believe Mr Nelson will write to you today. I believe there is no objection to your suggestions with regard to the proposed boundary lines. With regard to the change in the boundary nearthe small pox hospital. The proprietor of the Frothingham estate would not accept the award made by the expropriation Commissioners, but wanted about double the amount; [and] hence it was decided to give back the property. I am dear Sir Yours respectfully, W. J. Picton [*W. J. Picton [8?] May 1876*] To Mr Picton - 18th May 18767 Dear Sir; I hope to be with you on Monday next. I shall need at once in order to determine certain pints about the proposed house, to have some means of mounting to a considerable height above the highest point of the mountain. If nothing better occurs to you please have the largest ladder that can be procured sent there set up and securely fastened against the telegraphenclosure with braces to the corner posts and guys of cordage sufficient to stiffen and sustain it. The elevation must be [sufficient] such as to allow the greater part of the town to be seen from the top over [the tops of] the trees and the higher the better. Will you please see to this at once. Yours Truly Olmsted18th May '76 June '76 CITY SURVEYOR'S OFFICE CONCORDIA SALUS CORPORATION OF MONTREAL City Hall 1st June 1876 F.L. Olmsted Esq. Dear Sir I enclose tracing of the alterations with the levels [on] in red over each print -- I will send you the survey (of the points where you want to turn out.) tomorrow or Saturday -- The road along [the] near Mr McCords property [ha] is not decided on yet -- I am going to make a plan for the land to expropriated on the properties of Messr. Cross, Day & Lomer also a portion of the Redpath & Frothingham property. Will you be so kind as to send me a sketch of the platform sidewalk. The one you sent with the road plan has been lost in the City Hall. I will take care of the next you send. If I had had it in my possession it would not have been lost. Do you require the contours through the portion we are getting from the cemetery. If you do not I would prefer to leave it till the fall before contouring for the foliage is [very] so thick [that it] will take twice as long to do it now [as when] than it would in the fall. I suppose Mr Nelson informed you that I had accepted the position at $1400 I tried hard for $1500 but they said they were afraid to give it. Please excuse this scribble for I am in a hurry to be in town for the mail & have been delayed by Aldm. McCord. Will write early next week. I am dear Sir Your obedient servant W.J. Picton1st June '76 CITY SURVEYOR'S OFFICE CONCORDIA SALUS CORPORATION OF MONTREAL P.S: Please write to the following address for the letters may go astray if sent to the City Hall -- W. J. Picton 56 St George Hypolite St Montreal CITY SURVEYOR'S OFFICE CONCORDIA SALUS CORPORATION OF MONTREAL 56 St George Hypolite St Montreal 5th June 1876 F. L. Olmsted Esqr Dear Sir I enclose you a tracing showing the Pine trees along the proposed road on the top of the mountain -- they average from 1 ft to 2 1/2 ft in drain; -- I also send tracing of the McTavish Mont & Reservoir with the door of the Valve House on it -- I will send you tracing of the turnout points on Wednesday -- There will be a meeting of the Commissioners to day & if anything of importance is done I will let you know at once -- I am dear Sir Your Obedt. Servt. W. J. PictonW. J. Picton 5 June 1876 To Mr Picton. 8th June 1876 My dear Sir; [I have received] Your favors of 1st & 5th inst. were duly received. I have written several letters to the President, the last on the 6th being a long one in which I have strongly urged a series of measures [to][ with a view of fixing] the effect of which would be to fix a clear and undivided responsibility [with] upon you forsuch direction of all work on the mountain as will insure fidelity to my design so far as adopted by the Commission, and for securing your rights under such responsibility. As soon as I am advised of the action of the Commission upon these and other recommendations which I have recently made them I shall write you at length. I much wish that you could come here soon.8 8. June '76 [To Mr Picton:] Mr. J. J. Picton Engineer Mount Royal, Montreal, Canada. 10th June 1876. Dear Sir, Agreeably to your request of the 1st [June] inst. I send herewith working plans for a sample of the proposed "gallery walk". The drawing contains written instructions in regard to many particulars. A few others follow: The material would best be if picked Cedar throughout but hackmatach (larch) or iron wood may be substituted for all [pa] or any parts except the main post if [?ncy] it can bedone at a saving of expense. Below the floor line no trimming is desireable except with a blow of the axe, stubs of from one to two inches in length being [rather] desireable rather than otherwise. Above the floor line all stubs should be reduced to smooth faces so as to leave no suggestion of danger [of] that dresses may be caught and torn in passing them. They will best be [dressed] dressed down with a heavy (2") framing chisel. The work is to be spiked with wrought spikes welted when driven. Secure a sufficient bedding for the main post. I think that you can generally displace the stone on the slope for this purpose [sa] so as to leave a recess with a firm rock bottom, that will be at least 2 feet from the surface when unfilled. Chocks of stone can be set between the post and the walls of the recess so as to ridge it in and yet leave large cavities, which are to be filled with good surface soil in which vines and creepers to grow up the post can [grow] be planted. Be very particular that no wood is used of less dimensions than those given on the drawings as the effect intended depends on the size and proportions of the parts. There is no objection to somewhat larger timbers but if any one piece above the floor line is larger all the others should be so, the proportions being preserved.[all above the floor line.] Take [care] particular care that the tie plate is well bedded either with good permanent rock bearings or upon short posts as indicated on the drawing. The tie plate should be in as long lengths as practicable and well halved & pinned together so as to be in effect one continuous plate. [sketch of plate] In setting out the work divide the space [into equal parts] so that the posts will come at equal distances & not more than 9 feet apart. It is not necessary that the plank should be of equal width. [In] The drawing is made in the assumption that your plank [as bought] as boughtmust be 12 ft in length and [they are] to be [cut] cut once. If shorter planks are to be had [cheaper] at less cost, the walk may be narrowed, the minimum clear space being 4 ft. It is not necessary that the clear space between the hand-[the] rail and the rocks [between the] on the road side of the walk should be uniform, but [in] it must never be less than 4 feet. The space between the walk and the wheel way appears in the drawing rather broader and more rocky than will be generally desirable but the plan is in this respect to be humored to the local circumstances, some variety of treatment being desireable.There should be always some space of soil between the walk and the wheel way- [If] if large rocks are used a little soil running under them. At frequent intervals there should be beds and pockets not covered with rocks large enough to sustain small trees and bushes with soil not less than 2 feet deep, so that [they] it will not, even in hot weather, wholly dry out in this particularly dry situation. If you are coming soon to New York you can order the timber but wait till after you have seen our Park rustic and rock work before going on with the construction. W. J. Picton 10 June 1876. Directions for Rustic Galley walk. CITY SURVEYOR'S OFFICE CONCORDIA SALUS CORPORATION OF MONTREAL Montreal 12th June 1876 F. L. Olmsted Esqr L. A. Dear Sir Will you be so kind as to let me know if you intend the roof of the Refectory to be shingles the same as the sides -- Mr Nelson the architect states that as there is nothing mentioned in the specification aboutthe roof & he supposes it to be the same as the sides -- I enclose you an extract from the Star Newspaper published on Saturday evening -- I received your favor of 8th Inst. If there is any more in the papers about your report I will cut it out & send it to you -- I believe Mr Nelson wrote to you on Saturday -- I am dear Sir Yours &c W J Picton(Private) P.S. I think you will require to remind the Comers about our going to New York. W. L. Picton Blank No. 1. THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY The rules of this Company require that all messages received for transmission, shall be written on the message blanks of the Company, under and subject to the conditions printed thereon, which conditions have been agreed to by the sender of the following message. William Orton, Pres't, A.R. Brewer, Sec'y, } New York. Dated Montreal 12 1876 Received at 812 Sixth Avenue, N.Y. June 12 To Fred Law Olmsted 209 W 46 Sketch of foot path found will write next mail W.J. Picton This telegram has just been received at the office in 812 Sixth Avenue, cor. 46th Street. Always open. Where any reply should be sent. Direct Wires. (Private) PS. I think you will require to [?] the [C?] about our going to New York W.J. PictonCITY SURVEYOR'S OFFICE CONCORDIA SALUS CORPORATION OF MONTREAL 56 St George Hypolite St Montreal 13th June 1876 F.L. Olmsted Esqr Dear Sir I herewith send tracing of proposed reservation for Reservoir in [field?] in front of Superintendents House. They state that if we [ext] obtain the Tompkins property they would like to extend their boundary to the dotted line as the[?law?] As telegraphed you yesterday your sketch of the foot path was found on Mr. Omearia's desk about [to] 2 pm. After my appointment as Park Engineer I asked for your report that accompanied the plan which Mr Omearia found among some letters that had been received from you. I am dear Sir Your obedt Servant W.L. PictonPicton 13th June 76 Picton 16th June 1876 My Dear Sir: I write in reply to yours of 12th. The roof of the Refectory is designed to be covered with shingles. I was much surprised and [annoyed?] by the publica tion of my note but hope it has been of use to you. I have written several times to Mr Nelson & have times remind ed him of my suggestion to send you here. I hope I may see you soon. Please come at once to my house & stay with [???] you are here.16 June '76 CITY SURVEYOR'S OFFICE CONCORDIA SALUS CORPORATION OF MONTREAL 56 St George Hypolite St Montreal 17th June 1876 F. L. Olmsted Esqr Dear Sir I beg to acknowledge with thanks the receipt of the working plans of footpath -- At Mr Nelson's request I hereby inform you that the Park Commrs at a meeting held yesterday 16th Inst. resolved & carried that Mr Picton & Mr McGibbon beauthorized to go to New York to inspect the Parks as requested by Mr Olmsted -- Will you be so good as to let me know what date would be most suitable for you -- It will be necessary for Mr McGibbon & self to be here on Dominion Day (1st July) I am dear Sir Your Obedient Servant W. J. PictonPicton 17 June 1876 [To Mr P] Mr. W.J. Picton, Engineer in Chg. Mnt Royal Park. June 17th 1876 Dear Sir, With regard to the proposed reservoir, I shall want to give the matter careful consideration [but] and think that it would be well for you to see Mr Le Sage as soon as practicable and let me know his judgment on certain points, as far at least as you find him [disposed to express it] prepared to define it. There are two ways [in] between which to choose in the interest of the parkin determining the general form of the reservoir. One is to [m] treat it as a natural lake. In this case I should want to be free to give it a good deal more of variety of outline than is indicated in Mr Le Sages sketch to introduce islands, points and bays. I should also wish to [be free to] plant in some parts closely about it and to form a margin of turf, bushes, [or] natural rock [or] and sandy beaches [sand] [a rig'd]anything like a coping or a rigid stone edge would be out of the question. No gate house or other construction [c?d] be made conspicuous. If, therefore, any of the above requirements would in his judgment be inadmissable, I should at once wholly [it] abandon the idea of a natural form [and] The alternative would be a symetrical geometrical figure, as [an] an elipse or [or even a perfect circle.] [or a] [stone edge] a circle. Or something like the enclosed would answer which would fit the topography very fairly. With any such figure the shore should be, if not of cut masonry, a perfect clean line; there would be no trees overhanging the water and there might if desired be a railing and any [dis?ly] building. I should propose in this case to [s] plan a grand promenade if a[2 sketches] formal outline corresponding to that of the Reservoir and following it as closely as practicable. I should like your judgment, after conference with Mr Le Sage, as to the [f] elevation which would favorably be [adopted] preferred for the water surface. IPicton 17 June 1876 About treatment of Reservoir. 20th June 1876. Mr. W.J. Picton Engr. in Charge Mt Royal Park. Dear Sir, I have just recd yours of 17th and am glad to hear that your are coming here. If it [would] be practicable for you and Mr McGibbon to leave in the afternoon of Dominion day, so as to arrive here on Sunday morning, [2nd July I should prefer it] 2d prox 11 I recommend you to do so, as I should be able to do morefor you on Monday 30 than on any other day for some time. I shall be mainly free on Tuesday also. If you can not do that [which I should greatly prefer] then I advise you to [?] leave next [Saturday] Friday 23rd, to arrive Saturday morning. It is better that you see the parks when there is a [holiday attendance] holiday attendance if practicable. Picton 20 June 1876 About Picton coming to N.Y. The Western Union Telegraph Company. 48 1219 Dated Montreal June 22 1876 Received at 812 Sixth Avenue, N.Y. To F.L. Olmsted 209 W 46 Will go on first July Will write today W.J. Picton 8 pd AM 3)24. 8 _____ 8 192 _____ 1 22 June '76 CITY SURVEYOR'S OFFICE CONCORDIA SALUS CORPORATION OF MONTREAL Montreal 23rd June 1876 F.L. Olmsted Esqr Dear Sir Yours of 17th & 20th Inst. were duly received -- I telegraphed to you yesterday that we have decided to leave here on the afternoon of 1st July -- Mr McGibbon & self accept your kind invitation with thanks -- With reference to the ReservoirMr Lesage brought it before the water Committee on Wednesday evening and it was resolved to reserve from 8 to 12 acres of water and to leave it to your discretion to determine the shape of the reservoir -- I was desired to request you take advantage of the natural features so that there will be the smallest amount of masonry possible -- The building stone will have to be brought about 3 or 4 miles and clay fit to make banks to retain water about 5 miles. In looking over the Test pit plan I find that near the Tompkins property there is a great depth to the rock, some places as deep as 29 ft -- Mr Lesage states he wouldlike the water level to be 520 ft and the top of the bank 522 ft. -- I am dear Sir Your obedient Servant W. J. Picton 56 St George Hippolyte St Montreal 23, June 187624th July 1876. Mr. W.J. Picton; Engineer Mt Royal Park My Dear Sir, I have your favor of 21 July with contour map of property to be taken from the Cemetery. I have also received from the superintendent of the waterworks an official adoption of the reservoir plan. I will in a few days send you a line of road connecting at both sides with the promenade of the reservoir, a part of which you will be able to start construction upon soon, the remainder to be surveyed in until I can study it on the ground. I shall abandon the road along the bank under "The Pines" I think & make connection with the road as last laid out N.E. of the Superintendents garden by a line carried from the reservoir near the western boundary. I can make no plan for the satisfactory improvement of the Commissions property north of Sir Hugh Allan's without including a part at least of Mr. Frothingham property. I can recommend no line of road with a grade of 9 per 100. I hope to find some better plan of entrance than that you suggest. Yours very truly Fred Law Olmsted24 July 1876. New York 26 July 1876 W.J. Picton C.E. Engineer Mt. Royal Park. Dear Sir; I send with this by Express [with this] a tracing showing ([first] 1st) proposed line of road from terminus of mountain side road as heretofore constructed to and connecting with proposed reservoir and [from] [the reser] thence to a [connection with the line of road] point at or near station 26 of line already surveyed on the top of the mountain. 2d [Also] [(second)] a study of said previously surveyed line [with resv] showing some modifications [thereof] of it. 3d [Also (third) a line showing] 3d an outline of the proposed reservoir as adopted by the Committee on Water Works. The [first] 1st and [last] [third] 3d are to be surveyed in at your convenience with stations numbered as on the tracing. Upon the [second] 2d, or modification of the line already surveyed in, you will please prepare as rapidly as practicable working plans with such slight variation from the courses given as [from consideration of economy you may claim] may appear to be desirable [having regard to the desiderata which I have verbally instructed you to keep in view.] If the Commissioners should wish to put a force of men at work upon the construction of this road you can send me [working pl] for approval working plans of any portion of it, without waiting to go over the whole. Although the line of road first surveyed in on the upper part of the mountain is not materially [changed,] varied from the introduction of the feature of the reservoir and the grand promenade around it works a considerable change in the general theory of the design of the mountain improvements. The broad level drive [and ride] of half a mile in length around the reservoir, will at all times attract and hold a considerable number of the visitors to the mountain and the adjoining ride will supply perfectly what was before [what be] imperfectly provided for [supplied] in the crooked & steep ride proposed for the upperpart of the mountain, a speeding course for horsemen. It will therefore be feasible to do without the bridle road as heretofore proposed and to lay out [the] [a] the drive on the more rugged parts with less width & with less regard to ease of curve and grade. [and] [In makin] In the study of your working plans, [accordingly,] you will accordingly be able to keep much closer than I should have before approved of your doing to the natural surface of the ground, both by [variations] [a] mere indirectness of course and by steeper and more frequent changes of grade. [the 18 may be ? but this would be ? able only for distances not exceeding one ? 100 yards] A grade [of] as sharp as one in 18 would be admissable for a short distance [where for] when, for example, within a hundred yards each way a change is practicable to one in 25 or better. I have assumed on the map a width in general for the circuit road of the upper mountain of 22 feet. On all short turns this width should be fully maintained and when the road can be laid out at verylittle additional cost, either [for the construction] in the grading of the [road proper of its] bed or in the slope on either side, its width may be [increased] enlarged to as much as 26 feet, care being taken that any increased width is accomplished by a curve so gradual as not to be readily noticeable. On the other hand a [light] gradual reduction from [the width of] 22 feet to 18 will be admissable where [variation] anything important is to be gained by it either in economy of construction or advoidance of trees or other objects desirable to be retained. I have written at length today to Mr. Nelson about the Reservoir, [etc.] & c.26 July 1876. About road. Mount Royal Park, Engineer's Office, Montreal, [7] 8th August 1876 F. L. Olmsted Esqr Dear Sir I am happy to inform you that Mrs David has made arrangements for your son to board with a French Doctors family, consisting of the Doctor, his wife & three daughters. Mrs David thinks he will be made very comfortable -- I enclose a tracing of proposed sites for temporary water closets on the mountain ordered by the Park Commissioners owing to our not getting the money to build a portion of the refectory -- Mr Nelson desired me to write and ask you if you had any objection to our putting them up & to inform you that there is a great demand for some places of the kind & that when the refectory is built they will be removed, they are to be each 12 ft X 9 ft -- Be so good as to let me know when your son will come & I will meet him at the Depot -- I will commence locating the road this week I am dear Sir Yours truly W. J. Picton 8 Aug 1876. P.S. Will send you a tracing of proposed entrance near Mr McCords property tomorrow -- W J Picton Mount Royal Park, Engineer's Office, Montreal, 17th August 1876 F. L. Olmsted Esqr Dear Sir I enclose you a tracing of the Junction of Proposed Cedar Avenue and Cote des Neiges road -- the rise between the junction & the Park is 12 ft in 200 ft -- There is no other place near there that we can get into the Park from Cedar Avenue without a steeper grade -- Owen arrived on Sunday morning and is now in his quarters with Dr Bibaud -- I will send you in a a tracing of proposed Railway round the mountain -- I saw the plan yesterday and requested the parties to furnish me with a tracing to send to you to see if it will interfere with your design -- Please to let me know your opinion of the temporary water closets. Mr Nelson would like to know by the next meeting of the Commissioners -- I am dear Dir yours truly W. J. Picton17 Aug. 1876 Picton 19th Aug. 1876 Dear Sir I have just received yours of 17th. Is it your suggestion that the route by Cedar Avenue and Cote des Neiges [t] road [is bet] would be a better approach to the reservoir, than [a road] any road which can be laid out [l] further to the East wood connecting the Avenue and the present mountain approach? Of course the difficulty of the first is within the park.How soon may I expect [to] your working revision of the road lines last sent? Please say to Mr Nelson that I don't think that the proposed privies can be placed where they will be convenient [for u] for use without being offences. I very much question whether any such privies isolated from other holdings and not constantly overlooked, will not be greater nuisances and evils than the lack of [them] all accomodations for the purpose.If it is decided that small temporary structures for the purpose must be set up then the more decidedly temporary and the more inconvenient and unattractive they are in appearance which barely adapted to answer their purpose the better. There will be nothing but dissatisfaction [with them until] on the subject until they are connected with a refectory.19th Aug -- 1876. Mount Royal Park, Engineer's Office, Montreal, 28th August 1876 F. L. Olmsted Esqr Dear Sir I send herewith a tracing of a portion of the centre hill showing the alteration in the location in red -- also a tracing of profile with the alterations in blue -- Points A to B altered to avoid cutting -- C to D to avoid a large Pine tree -- E to F to avoid Pine trees - G. to H. to avoid filling -- I. to J. to escape large trees -- K to L. to avoid heavy rock cutting and large Pine -- M to N to avoid large fill on on side hill == Be so good as to let me know as soon as convenient if you approve of my alterations or any change that you would prefer to make, for Mr Nelson wants me to get up an estimate of the cost &c by the 12th prox; -- What kind of a bridge would you like over the ravine near station 7 on profile -- I have only located the centre line of the main drive -- I have also staked out the preliminary portion between the end of present road and the above located portion -- My reason for suggesting and entrance on the Cote des Neiges Road is owing to the ground to the east of it rising very rapidly between the proposed line of Cedar Avenue and the Park boundary -- I am dear Sir Yours truly W. J. Picton 28th Aug 28 Aug 7630th Aug. 1876. Mr. W. J. Picton Eng in Chg -- Dear Sir; [You] I have today received yours of 28th inst with proposed revision of road line. None of the changes suggested are in any way very seriously objectionable and all seem condusive to economy but I will call your attention to a few points [in which some little compromise may be made with advantage, something] where with a little further study you may [make] find [slight [imprmts] practicable.] something yet to be gained.The very slight reverse curve at [?.] is desirable to be avoided. I question whether you have allowed sufficient elevation [at] for the bridge, between [[?] D. & E] D and E. In any case it would be better that the [bridge] floor should be level & station E may perhaps be raised a little with advantage. Between [the [floor] surface of the roadway and the] the upper floor and the surface of the walk which is to pass below there should be a vertical distance of 10 feet, and you will consider whether it will be more economical to excavate for the walk or [excavate to fill] to make more filling for the drive I should have preferred not to make as much change from my line as you do near sections F and G. for the reason that there will in any case be some inclination to make a short [c] cut from E to H and the more the curve from bends toward H the more [round] [of] unnecessarily round about will the way by F & G seem to be. My recollection is that there is quite a little grove of Pines between E and G.H. so that if the outer ones be-between E & F are not particularly good, they may perhaps be better spared than make so deep a curve. I am not at all sure of it [however,] and shall not be dissatisfied if you [create] maintain your change. The curve should, however, be a little steadied near E. In all other respects your variations are obviously justified, and [barely indicating the possibility of slight improvements]tween F & G it will not on account of the very slight modifications I have suggested be necessary to refer [the matter to me again,] any part of the line to me again. I will barely refer again to the importance which I have before so much urged of keeping the finished surface of the road below rather than above the general plane of the adjoining natural surface, of securingmaterial for and actually forming long and easy wave [sketch of a wave] slopes between the road and the adjoining surface and of avoiding any approach to angularity in the profile of the road by merging vertical curves by gentle gradations one into the other. The question of the bridge should be referred to an architect. It should be of a span of at least 14 feet and no part of it should be[The bridge or archway should have a span of at least 14 feet. Not part of it should be consp] more conspicuous than is necessary. Very bold rock faced stone will be best for the abutments and a simple but very strong timber construction above. The wing walls and slopes should be so managed that the passage of the walk willseem [to] either to be through a natural gap (if that is practicable) or to have been forced [abruptly] by a sharp cut through a natural ridge. The top of the ridge should be hidden and the bridge and wing walls half hidden eventually by [shrubs and trees planted] trees and shrubs planted on the slopes. 30 Aug. 76 30 Aug. '76 About changes in roadway & Bridge Mount Royal Park, Engineer's Office Montreal, 21st Sept 1876 F.L. Olmsted Esqr. Dear Sir I am directed by the Commissioners to inform you, that before asking Council for an appropriation for the construction of any part of the road, they wish to have the plan of the road from the end of the part constructed to the Summit of the Mountain complete viz. your approval of the portion marked on the tracing 116 to 150. I will send you by next mail a tracing of the profile of it and if you cannot approve of it without going over the[y] ground they would like you to come as soon as convenient for they want to submit it to the council so that we may go on and remove the soil & trees before the frost comes. I saw Owen off safe last night for Quebec. I am dear Sir yours truly W.J. Picton 56 st Hypolite St. Montreal21 Sept 76 To Mr Picton, 30th Sept 1876 Dear Sir, I have twice written Mr Nelson in the matter of yours of 21st mst. If the reservoir is surely to be built precisely as I have sketched it I should be satisfied with your marking line for the road in question, but while the building of the reservoir is delayed, and remains in any way a matter subject to revision or reconsideration, the question of the road should also remain open. I have recommendeda temporary road to be made [by enlargement of the existing [rad] road to connect the road built] connecting that built last year and that to be made on the route [that] already approved. A stretch of good earth road so far from being objectionable would be [a] an agreeable relief at this point. [for] A stone road can never be made as pleasant [as a good] as an earth road so long as the latter can be kept in good condition.gap in the road There were passages in Mr Nelsons letter the purport of which I did not clearly understand but they seemed to indicate that he contemplated some excavation immediately from the site of the proposed reservoir -- [with the object as] The only object I can imagine for which such excavation would be made by the Park Commission is that of soiling the slopes of the road. If this were to be done [in] to any considerable extent it would I suppose settlethe question of the reservoir but [that] it would be in fact facing the reservoir at an expense [wholly] charged to the park, which ought not to be. There is another consideration affecting the matter. The material (would) first comg from the reservoir should [first of all] go to the greatest distance — [beyond the small pay hospital] i.e. to that part of the road nearest Bleury Street, as [it] would is more needed there and will be more [more] difficult of supply, than further up the mountain, thgh badly enough wanted every where. Means should be contrived it appears to me for sending it down the mountain by gravity, with no more horse power than would be required to get back the empty carts. [For instance one man and horse should be kept run'ng loaded [carts to up the hill] carts from the pit to the summit (end of present road) leaving loaded carts there until a train had been formd as long as could be well managed with a break.]For instance loaded carts might [should] be run from the pit to the summit (end of present road) and left standing there until as large a train has been found as could [can] be safely run down the mountain with a [break] single horse, [to guide] and, if necessary, break to hold back. One man and horse might [One horse should] then take down this train of loaded carts and return them empty to the pit. It is only by some such organization that the work can be done [with] with [decent] economy and it should not be begun until it can be [so managed.] taken hold of with sufficient force for the purpose. It would be far better to stop work altogether than to go on in the costly, hand to mouth, way you are now forced to, and I have so advised Mr Nelson. [The park can never be properly][The mountain can never be properly improved unl] Unless you can look further ahead and lay out your work with reference to [the] its ultimate ends, [the [?]] instead of to the immediate gratification of the public, [for a year ahead,] -- the work of properly improving the mountain will cost too much and will never be well done. I shall not finish any [more plans for pieces [tempany?] to serve such a policy]It is not my business to furnish plans for [country roads] roads simply as roads but for works of landscape improvement and if more roads are wanted to be made like that of last year without regard to anything but [a] means of transit they must be made on somebody's elses plans. [than mine.] I will not if I can help it have the most [distinct?] responsibility for them. [[?]][????] is here, greatly [improved] set up, I think, in health, and I regard his visit to you as in every way a [great] complete success. I thank you very sincerely for the [your kind] interest you have kindly taken to secure this result and especially [for] for the professional aid you have given him.30 Sept. '76 Reservoir Plan for digging. Plans for outside roads Mount Royal Park, Engineer's Office, Montreal, 2nd Novr 1876 F. L. Olmsted Esqr. Dear Sir I am directed by Mr Nelson to inform you that at a meeting on the 31st [Ult.] of the Commissioners and some of the other aldermen it was resolved that they could not recommend the purchase of the property required from the Frothingham estate in the present state of the city finances -- They ask 20 cents per foot for it which would amount to about $150,000 -- I will be able to go overthe proposed walks next week and send you the information required as soon as possible -- I do not think that we will build the platform this winter but if we get sufficient money we will go on with it early in the spring -- I think that Rustic work would be the best & for you to send the man you proposed to superintend the erection of it -- I am dear Sir Yours truly W. J. Picton2 Nov 76 Mount Royal Park, Engineer's Office, Montreal, 2nd Nov 1876 Private F. L. Olmsted Esqr. Dear Sir I have this day written to the Board of Comrs of Public Parks acknowledging the receipt of a copy of their Third Annual report -- I have also to thank you for your kindness in having it sent to me -- I think that the council will make Bleury St the Park boundary & from what I can hear that they will never shut up the portion in the park but will let it run straightthrough to the St Catherine road -- when I obtain further information I will let you know -- I hope yourself and family are all enjoying good health I am dear Sir Yours truly W. J. PictonMount Royal Park, Engineer's Office, Montreal, 21st Oct 1876 F. L. Olmsted Esqr. Dear Sir I have this day returned the plan as requested -- I have not been very well for the last week which prevented my getting anything done with the walks &c but hope that next week I will be able to go over them -- Mr Nelson desired me to request you to send [as] it back as soon as convenient I am dear Sir Yours truly W J Picton21 Oct 76 Blank No. The Western Union Telegraph Company. The rules of this Company require that all messages received for transmission, shall be written on the message blanks of the Company, under and subject to the conditions printed thereon, which conditions have been agreed to by the sender of the following message. THOS. T. ECKERT, Gen'l Sup't, New York /67 WILLIAM ORTON, Pres't, GEO. H. MUMFORD, Sec'y. New York 310 Dated Montreal Oc 17 1876 Received at 791 Broadway. To Fred Law Olmsted No 16 or 26 Union Sqre Commissioners will be in New York on Tuesday P Omeara 7 paid p This telegram has just been received at the office in 791 Broadway - Always Open, Where any reply should be sent. Direct Wires.P. O'Meara Oct 17th (1874)To Mr Picton 16th Oct 1876 Dear Sir, I send today [to] addressed to the President a Study for the General Plan for laying out the Mountain in which [a] the routes of a system of walks and foot pathes [is] are shown. Before snow falls I wish you would have a sufficient tracing made of these and go over the [lines] routes indicated and where from conditions of local topography [variations] not apparent on the map variations from these routes are obviously desireable, indicate the changes which should be [mand] made, and [return the map] sent the tracing to me with such corrections [to me] and any notes or advice for which we may see occasion. Whereas the grade of a walk [as] on the routes shown would exceed 1 in 12, steps will be desireable & I should like to have such places generally indicated. The parts of the scheme of which I am most in doubt are (1) the routes between Pine Avenue [and the ] South of the Allan Place and the proposed reservoir; (2) that from the [curve?] of the mountain running North East across the Drive, and (3) that leading up the mountain from the concourse west of the Small Pox Hospital. Picton 16 Oct. 1876 About changes in walks209 W. 46 St. New York. 12th Oct. 1876 Mr. W.J. Picton C.E. in chg. Mt Royal Park. Dear Sir; The balcony for carriages will be a conspicuous object from below - too conspicuous. I suppose that it could be built in the rustic manner, suitable, at lesscost than of squared timber. If of the latter it would need to be carefully designed and nicely executed with decorative details under the supervision of an architect. If of rustic work I should ask to be allowed to send the man who has made all the rustic work structures of the New York, Brooklynand San Francisco Parks to manage. If it is to be made this winter I should recommend the latter course; if adopted I would furnish a sketch. In estimating for it, calculate on very heavy timber, as in the situation it is essential that it should not only be strong but should appear strikingly so. To Picton 12 Oct 1876 Rustic BridgeCITY SURVEYOR'S OFFICE CONCORDIA SALUS CORPORATION OF MONTREAL Montreal 7th Oct. 1876 F. L Olmsted Esqr Dear Sir Will you be so good as to let me know what kind of platform you wish to have erected at the point shown on your plan -- Is it be made like rustic work or with square timber underneath and a rustic railing -- I want to find out the probable cost to put in my estimates -- can you give me any idea of the cost -- The posts will average about 12 ft long -- The passages in Mr Nelsons letter did refer to taking some of the [mould?] out of the site of the proposed reservoir to put on the slopes -- I have spoken to Mr Nelson and he is of the opinion that it will be some years before the reservoir will be built and that would could take some of the soil occasionally when we have a little money to spare from the otherworks that may be going on -- I am dear Sir Yours truly W. J. Picton 7 Oct '76 Mount Royal Park, Engineer's Office, Montreal, 23rd Decr 1876 F. L. Olmsted Esqr Dear Sir I enclose herewith tracing of a portion of the walks on Mount Royal -- From A to B. C to D. E to F. I think should be the overhanging footway -- From G to H. I would suggest that a footpath be made to allow the people from the east end of the city easy access to the stairs -- I have marked different points where steps will be required -- & parts altered in red will be the most suitable for the walk -- TheThe remainder will suit very well -- I have put on the tracing a connecting road with Mount Royal Avenue, which was constructed about Six weeks ago by order of the Commissioners Yours truly W. J. PictonPicton 16th Dec 76 Dear Mr Picton, I hear that it is contemplated to remove you from the Mountain on the ground that [you have nothing to do. There is nothing for you to do] as work has been suspended there is nothing for you to do. [If no work is to be done I can not] I am most anxious to prevent it if possible but if no work is to be done I can [not] think of nothing that I can urge [against the] to the contrary and [should be much obliged if you] if anything occurs to you as likely to give you useful ocupation I should be much obliged if you would let me know of it that I may [press for on the Commission] address the Commission on the subject. When am I to expect [the] your return [of t] upon the question of the walk system. Picton 16 Dec. 1876 Mount Royal Park, Engineer's Office, Montreal, 13th [June] July 1876 F.L. Olmsted Esqr. Dear Sir I enclose you the tracing of University St entrance. I will send you the contours of the cemetery property in a couple of days. Mr Lesage desired me to inform you that his committee & himself approve of your design for the Reservoir. Mr. McGibbon is making enquiries about a place for you son to board. I will let you know in my next what arrangementshe has made. The council would not grant the $8,000 for Refectory. I am going to get levels in the MrCord property today to see about road in that part I am dear Sir Yours &c W.J. Picton 56 St George Hypolite St.13 July. 1876 Mount Royal Park, Engineer's Office, Montreal, 21st July 1876. F. L. Olmsted Esqr. Dear Sir I enclose herewith a tracing of the contours in the property acquired by us from the Mount Royal Cemetery. It is very thick with brushwood and a good number of large pines -- Our boundary is the dotted line shewn on the tracing and runs from the W. point of it to the [corner] fence inside of the Shakespearre road -- Now that I have the contours plotted I think would bemore difficult to get a road along the face of the hill to connect with the one at the top of the mountain near the proposed refectory -- I am desired by the Commissioners to inform you that they cannot [report] recommend to council the purchase of the Frothingham property owing to the city being so heavily in debt -- I urged the purchase and told them what you said but they did not feel disposed to act on it -- Mr McGibbon spoke to Mrs David about a place for your son to board & she will let him know in a few days what arrangements can be made -- Mr Nelson is from homeat present and will not be back till near the end of next week. I find we cannot get an entrance from new road to the Park on the Cross property but may get one near the E bounday of Mr McClords property where the grade will be 9' per 100 for 250 ft. I hope yourself & family are enjoying good health. I am dear Sir W.J. Picton 21 July 1876.