Frederick Law Olmsted SUBJECT FILE [*Private Estates*] [*6*] [*Vanderbilt, George W. Biltmore, N.C. 1898 [?] UD*][*Biltmore Arboretum Basis of Estimate of Cost - 1898.*] [*X*] [*from M drawer*] OLMSTED BROTHERS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS BROOKLINE MASSOFFICE OF THE BILTMORE NURSERY [*File*] BILTMORE, N. C., June 6th, 1898. Olmsted Bros., Brookline, Mass. [*OLMSTED BROTHERS, REC'D JUN 9 1898 ACK'D BY ANS'D June 9 BY F. L. O. READY BY JCO FL [?] *] Gentlemen:- Herewith I hand you all of the papers furnished by Mr. B. M. Lee relative to the Arboretum grading and drainage. I have asked Mr. Lee to make out a bill against you and to forward it direct or through me. I admit that the report is not altogether what I would like to see, but I do believe that it is all we could expect for the amount of money that has been appropriated for prosecuting the undertaking. Mr. Lee has been very liberal in the amount of time which he has put upon the work and I think we are to be congratulated in getting so much and so accurate information, so far as it goes; but I think it would be wise to consider that the kind of work that we will do with a view to selecting soils and topographical effect will more than amount to the expenditure intimated by Mr. Lee. Truly yours, C. D. BeadleB. M. LEE, City Engineer... OFFICE IN CITY HALL. P. O. BOX 157. OLMSTED BROTHERS, JUN 9 1898 REC'D ACK'D BY ANS'D BY READ BY JCO FL Asheville, N. C., June 4th 1898 Mr. C. D. Beadle Biltmore; N.C. Dear Sir: I herewith enclose you my approximate estimate of the cost of completing the grading & draining of the Arboretum road from the end of the Macadam to the Upper ferry, exclusive of culverts or bridges. The necessary culverts or bridges are ten in number, & their locations are marked on the map No 330 with a C. in red. Places where it will be unadvisable to increase the width of road are also marked on map with 16 in blue. 2 points on French Broad. In estimating for the 24 feet road, I have in some places, calculated for all the widening on one side, as the material from the slope on the opposite side is sufficient to make it; and in all cases I widen on the cut side only enough to get sufficient material to build the road 24 feet wide.B. M. LEE, City Engineer... OFFICE IN CITY HALL. P. O. BOX 157. 2 Asheville, N. C., 189 I measured the whole length of the road taking notes for each 100 feet, and in many places taking levels of the cross-section. You will see that I have not calculated for any drains smaller the 12", not that this size is needed in all cases to carry the water from the road, but because a smaller pipe is so liable to get choked. I would have liked to make a more accurate estimate, but for the price offered ($30.00) I could not afford to do more than I have done. Yours very truly, B. M. Lee. Under drains generally about 300 feet apart B. M. LeeB. M. LEE, City Engineer... OFFICE IN CITY HALL, P. O. BOX 157. Asheville, N. C., .........189 Estimated cost of completing the grading & draining of the Arboretum road, excusive of Culverts or bridges 16 feet roadway Excavation in slopes & pipe ditches 10100 yds @.20 $2020.00 12" drain pipe furnished & laid 3265 feet @ .25 816.25 15" drain pipe furnished & laid 1085 feet @ .35 379.75 18" drain pipe furnished & laid 100 feet @ .50 50.00 24" drain pipe furnished & laid 230 feet @ 1.00 230.00 30" drain pipe furnished & aid 230 feet @ 2.00 460.00 12" quarter bends furnished & laid 90 @ .75 67.50 15" quarter bends furnished & laid 35 @ 1.05 36.75 Total $4020.25 4060.25 2020 2040.25 24 feet roadway Excavation in widening &c. 26,800 yds. @.20 $5360.00 12" drain pipe furnished & laid 3265 feet @ .25 = 816.25 15" drain pipe furnished & laid 1085 feet @ .35 = 379.75 18" drain pipe furnished & laid 100 feet @ .50 = 50.00 24" drain pipe furnished & laid 330 feet @ 1.00 = 330.00 30" drain pipe furnished & laid 300 feet @ 2.00 = 600.00 12" quarter bends furnished & laid 90 feet @ .75 = 67.50 15" quarter bends furnished & laid 35 feet @ 1.05 = 36.75 Total $7640.25 5360. 2280. B. M. Lee C. E.# This refers to marking with a wooden or thin copper plant label to identify each species for proper location on the ground. If all the plants of each species can be tied or otherwise kept together so as to insure identification, one label would be enough for each species. 50 ) 108 ( 216 100 80 50 .002. 12525 300 65 .0.21.6 64125 36 76950 83336.25 87723 1.5[00]) 108 (72 12 105 1754 46 30 15390 8772 3 65 10526.76 769 50 73102 9284 0 12 10053.50 46170 1462 04 53100 12 7310 2 177 00 933 40 8772.2[4] 58143 13 2655 00 4617 0 33 2832.00 5551.00 38 12 38475 240 51 50000 12 250 55143 @500.00 769 50 4 25 3847 5 4490 13 8250 4617.00 2500 9956 385 4490 1754 5466 1717 3600 9956[*338.20 2904 15.22 158 58 08 25 580 8 790 14520 316 2904 3950 44198 88*] Biltmore Arboretum Distances, (Nursery siding 1400' less) Nursery to Brick Farm, via Service Road and Deer Park Valley, 15300 Brick Farm to Arboretum Entrance, 3150 Arboretum Entrance via Approach and Overlook 19200 Arboretum Entrance to 4 Mile Branch Bridge, 1800 " " 6 " " at +3 14100 Rhododendron Valley, 6000 Brick House to 6 Mile Branch 9000 Dingle Road, 3600 Rhododendron to Rice House, 8000 Rice to Johnson branch, 13200-to Arrowhead Pass 6800 6400 Johnson Branch to Johnson Valley, 1000 Conifer Section, 9000 Johnson Branch to end by River, 8000 End to Dingle, 2300Init Exp- 2 [mo???res] 8 yrs. @40 7680 [lib?] 7500 60.000 15180 24000.0Arboretum Road - Macadam. 8' wide 6" deep (rolled) takes .25 ton per running foot. 16' wide 4" deep (rolled) takes .30 ton per running foot,80 96 —— 7680 43561 27800 (4. 26136 ——— 16640 2.17 1.50 1920 1.6 389 ——- 1. 202304 1120 1.25 per yard .45 —— 1.70 S 5300 Maintenance and Improvement. Director 200 assistant. 100 String 80. Pruner 40. Collector 100. assistant 40. defarinator 125. indexer 75. clerk 60. moruter 60. 2 section foremen @60 120. ————- 1000. year 12000 labor 5000 building 1000 [?] 1000 [?] 1000 state [?] 1000 ———— 21000[*X Biltmore Biltmore M copy wi?*] PROJECT OF OPERATIONS FOR IMPROVING THE FOREST OF BILTMORE. What is to be here considered as the Forest, is that part of the upland region of the Biltmore Estate that is now wooded, except so much of it as shall be taken for the Park, Garden and Pleasure Grounds attached to the House. Various tracts of this region that have been lately cleared and in cultivation are to be planted and when planted will be a part of the Forest. But in the present Memorandum only the existing wooded land is to be considered, the extent of this being, it is estimated, something more than 4,000 acres. The management of forests is soon to be a subject of great national, economic importance, and as the undertaking now to be entered upon at Biltmore will be the first of the kind in the country to be carried on methodically, upon an extensive scale, it is even more desirable than it would otherwise be that it should, from the first, be directed systematically and with clearly defined purposes, and that instructive records of it should be kept. A brief account of the Forest as it now is will be here given, and afterwards a statement of what is intended by the proprietor to be the first general operation for its improvement. This forest is composed of two classes of trees; those of2 one class comparatively old, with long, slim trunks and high, meagre, tufty heads; those of the other, younger and of much lower growth, the tops of their heads being generally below the bottom of the heads of the trees of the first class. The first class will be referred to as the high growth, or as the old growth; the second, as the low or the young growth. The division between them is generally obvious to even an unpractised eye. The older and larger trees of the high growth are commonly unsound, being hollow in the trunk and dead in some of their upper branches. The ground has been often burned over and of late closely browsed and there is but little low underwood. The manner in which trees of the high growth have come to their present condition may be thus explained:- As soon as it began to be profitable to market any kind of wood from this region, saw-mills were established to work it into merchantable form and the forest was culled of its largest and most valuable trees to supply these mills. As means of communication improved and demand increased, there came to be a warmer competition among the mill-owners and the forest was culled again and again. With the near approach of railroads, the establishment of manufactories at Asheville, and a consequent local need for much common building material3 and firewood, the demand at last came to be such that nearly every sound tree of the territory now forming the Biltmore Estate, that would measure a foot in diameter at the butt, could be felled and its trunk drawn to a mill with profit. The present older and taller growth of the Biltmore Forest is thus the refuse of the refuse of repeated cullings of the original forest. The trees composing it, while young, grew with difficulty under and between older trees, the roots of which, spreading through all the soil, took from it most of its available nutriment and in dry seasons most of its available moisture. The young trees, thus struggling for life in the shade of the older, had become lanky and stunted. When the larger trees were cut out, most of them were already too old for a change of character, and, although they have since grown larger, they remain ungainly in form and generally very scant, if not quite bare, of foliage, for two-thirds of their height from the ground. Scattered among them, and generally over-topping them, there are a few of the older large trees, left at the final culling, because their trunks being hollow with decay they were not worth felling. After each culling, most of the trunks of the felled tress were drawn to the mills and a few, with some of the larger4 limbs, were taken for fencing and firewood. All the fallen wood not thus disposed of, being very large in amount, was left on the ground where, when dry, it was consumed by accidental fires, which were made so intense by it as to do much more injury than they otherwise would, not only by scorching the living trees remaining on the ground, but by consuming the leaf-mould that would otherwise have kept the soil moist and furnished the best of tree food. Under the high growth of the present forest, the existing condition of which has thus been accounted for, stands the low growth, most of which would seem to have sprung from seed and from the stumps and roots of the fallen trees after the ground had been considerably opened to the sun by extensive cullings, the trunks of this later growth, at four feet from the ground, being now from two to six inches in diameter. Although more or less crowded, shaded, and stinted of food and moisture by the draughts upon the soil of the higher growth, most of the trees of the low growth are still vigorous saplings and, if opened to the light, and otherwise favored, may yet become strong and shapely great trees. To permit them to do so, the great body of the refuse trees of the high growth now oppressing them are to be cut out; their more valuable parts taken away; the remaining parts safely burned and the5 ashes spread for the benefit of the young trees. But some few trees of the old growth are yet healthy and fairly well formed, and where they are so, it is the wish of the proprietor that, from considerations of scenery, they should, in many cases, be left standing. Sometimes several of the old trees, standing near together, may be seen as a distinct cluster, which, if cleared about, would grow into a fine, large, spreading, single, compact and umbrageous body of foliage. Sometimes, also, among the old trees one will be found which, because it is of a kind comparatively rare, or because it is interesting from some peculiarity of form, will be desirably preserved. The entire Biltmore Forest is to be gradually gone over, removing the superfluous trees, and as this will take several years, by the time the work is done it will be time to thin it a second time. Therefore it is not necessary that the first cutting out of old trees should be exhaustive, and whenever there is reason for doubt whether the forest would be improved by the immediate removal of a tree, it may for the present be left. At the same time with the felling of most of the high class of trees, as above provided, the low growth is to be thinned. In selecting the young trees to be taken out, the objects to be had in view are (a) to make room for the branches of those6 that remain to spread, (b) to prevent the available nutriment and moisture of the soil from being taken up by so many trees that none will be abundantly nourished, and, (c) to secure as even a distribution as is practicable of the choicest trees, so that, after a few years, there will be growing on the land nearly the largest amount of valuable timber that it can bear. But these objects are occasionally to yield to that of retaining and promoting the growth and exhibition of particularly interesting single trees, and that of securing passages of more agreeable sylvan scenery than would result from a strict adherence to motives of purely commercial profit. There will occasionally be found young trees and groups of young trees which, because of their beauty, will desirably to allowed to stand until from natural decay they are of no value for timber. Opportunity is to be given such chosen trees and groups to spread freely and attain majestic, or further develop picturesque, forms, surrounding trees being from time to time cut away in order to give them room to do so and to secure ample feeding room for their roots. At present, Oaks of numerous species stand, throughout the forest, many to one of all other kinds of trees. Without attempting to overcome this predominance of Oaks, it will7 desirably be somewhat reduced. Hence, most kinds of Oak, but especially Black Oak, may be taken out more freely than other trees. Well-formed White Oaks, which are comparatively infrequent, should be cherished. So, also, should the Chestnut; Beech; Bass, and White Bass, (Tilia); Whitewood, (Tulip, Liriodendron); all the Hickories; all the Birches; Sweet Gum, (Liquidamber); Black Gum, (Nyssa); all the Magnolias, (Sweet Bay, Umbrella tree, Cucumber tree); Sassafras; Persimmon; Papaw, (Assimina); Sour Wood, (Oxydendrum); Catalpa; Holly; Yellow-wood, (Cladastris); Dogwood, (Cornus florida); Fringe tree, (Chionanthus Virginica); Rattle-box, (Halesia tetraptera): Angelica, (Aralia spinosa); All the Haws, (Crataegus); Several of these are rare on the Estate and a few have not yet been observed but are likely to be. Trees into which grape vines or other vines have grown, may generally be saved with the vines. Not many Black Walnuts are wanted because they are so long without leaves; not many Cherries because they are nurseries for the bag-worm; not many Yellow Locust because of the borer that is apt to infest them. Various trees not now found on the Estate will be introduced by planting, especially on the borders of intended roads. Scattered "Old Field Pines" standing among the deciduous8 trees are generally to be felled. The Yellow Pine, (P. mitis); is to be felled or left according to circumstances. If in numbers forming a group and fairly vigorous, to be left. Occurring singly, unless uncommonly spreading and vigorous, to be cut. Where very lofty, with dead branches nearly to the top, with young trees coming up below, to be felled. Where low-branched in considerable bodies, to be freely thinned. The following instructions are given as to the process of beginning the first systematic thinning. 1. Mr. Gall, as resident Landscape Architect and Forester, will be Superintendent of the work. 2. Foremen are to be instructed and trained, each at first with a few axemen, the number to be afterwards increased. 3. For some time, all trees to be felled are to be blazed under the direction, tree by tree, of the Superintendent. While directing the blazing, the Superintendent is to be so instructing the Foreman that he will become familiar with the principles which, as above indicated, are to govern the selection of trees to be felled. 4. Later, when, in the judgment of the Superintendent,9 the Foreman can prudently be trusted to mark the trees to be removed, he is to be directed to do so, but under strenuous instruction that every tree, about the removal of which there can be a reasonable doubt, is to be left for the consideration of the Superintendent. The Foreman is also to blaze trees so far in advance of the work of felling, that the Superintendent may be able to review the blazing before the marked trees are felled. In this review, the Superintendent will have additional trees blazed if he sees occasion, and will indicate trees to be saved, especially the rarer, which the Foreman may have mistakenly blazed to be cut. Let the blazing be on the north side of the tree, and not unnecessarily large. Let one blaze mean to fell; two, to save. 5. The Superintendent will look ahead of the blazing for opportunities of forming points of special landscape interest by the development and exhibition of particular trees and groups, and so instruct the Foreman that these opportunities may be improved only under his (the Superintendent's) personal direction. So, also, as to operations immediately abou about springs, brooks and notable outcrops of rock. In particular cases, places are to be reserved by the Superintendent for the personal consideration of the undersigned.10 6. Occasionally a tree will be found, which, although it has been greatly injured by crowding and otherwise, may, by a shortening in of its upper part, or by pruning a deformed branch, be made in a few years one of unusual value. The Superintendent will look ahead for all such trees and direct how they shall be dealt with. 7. All engaged in this work are to be instructed and trained to be cautious and skilful when felling trees, to avoid letting them fall so as to mutilate others. 8. The work of trimming, cutting and stacking such part of the fallen wood as can be profitably taken away; the moving of it and the gathering and burning of the trash, is to follow as closely as practicable upon the felling of the trees, so that fuel for forest fires shall be left on the ground no longer than is necessary. All cases that have been indicated as exceptional being reserved, the Foremen are to be made familiar with and to strictly observe the following rules:- 1. Old trees with long, naked trunks, that have come to their full growth, or nearly so; such as are dead at the top or have many dead limbs, or that otherwise appear to be in11 a decidedly infirm condition, and all dead trees, are to be felled. 2. Old trees when still sound and vigorous, standing upright, with thrifty and moderately low branches, and that are not greatly crowding one another, are to be left. 11. Where young trees are crowding one another, the less promising of them are to be felled, until the head of each unfelled tree stands clear of others. 4. But if two or more healthy trees are growing so that their heads merge together in one, forming a very promising group, none need be felled; in such case, however, care must be taken that any other trees are taken out which, if left standing, would soon crowd the group. Such a group of trees may be of any length, provided it is to narrow that every tree of it will be well lighted on one side, and allowed to spread its branches freely on that side, its head thus forming one face of a body of foliage, the other face of which will be formed by the heads of other trees of the group. An occasional glade or small open space in the Forest, with unusually promising trees on its borders, is desirable.Arboretum Road / McAdam 8 ' wide 6 " deep (rolled.) takes .25 ton per running foot 16 ' wide 4 " deep (rolled) takes .30 ton per running foot. Bilt. Arb. Distances. (Nursery siding 1400' less) Nursery to Bk Frm via Service Rd. + Deer PK Valley 15,300 B. Fm. to Arb. Ent. 3 150 --------- 18 450 " Arb. Entr. via Appr. & Overlook 19200 Entr. Arb. to 4 M Br. Bridge 1800 " c to 6 M Br. at +3 14100 15900 Rhodo Valley 6000 Bk Ho to 6 M Br- 9000 Dingle Road 3600 Rhodo to [Jo] Rice Ho 8000 Rice to Johnson branch 13200 {to Hvowhead Pass. 6800 6400 J. B. to J. valley 1000 Conifer Secn 9000 J. B. to end by River 8000 End to Dingle 2300 5280 ) 31623Prunus cerasifera, / Ehrh / var roseo pl. Syn. Common name. Native country. Received under name [Juinus?] Mirobalana fl. roseo pl. fr. [Transow?] Bros. 1891. References. Observations.Arg. Grad 2 11500 950 30 100 35 150 150 375 2400 200 1200 150 1000 6M. Brauch + [?] 150 100 400 200 300 380 300 500 leaving GM Br. 2000 Top of hill 200 Ardenhoad 600 50 50 [Browitown] 400 400 550 250 24475Basis for estimate of cost of Planting -- A. COmplete Arboretum. Specimen planting | | 1000 large trees | | cost in nursery per M | | labelling * per M | | digging per M | | hauling per 100.| 100. | planting per M| ----| 3000 small trees & large shrubs | | cost in nursery per M. | | labelling per M | | digging. per M | | hauling per M 100. | 300. | 4000 small shrubs cost in nursery per M. | | labelling per M | | digging. per M | | hauling per M 50. |200. | Add this on flyer; not as a foot note. *This refers to marking with a wooden or thin copper plant label to identify each species for proper location on the ground. If [the] all the plants of each species can be tied [tog/] or otherwise kept together so as to insure identification one label would be enough for each species--Brought forward | | Groups and Masses | | 155000 large trees | | 56.8 acres @ 4' apart. | | cost to nursery per M | | digging per M | | hauling per M 4.80 | 7.44 | planting per M| | 278000 small trees and large shrubs | | 47.0 acres @ 3' apart | | cost in nursery per M | | digging per M | | hauling per M | | planting per M| ---| 840000 small shrubs | | 77.0 acres @ 2' apart | | cost in nursery per M | | digging per M | | hauling per M | | planting per M| ---| forward | | brought forward Cheap undergrowth| | 2,225,000 plants | | 105.6 acres@ 18" apart | | cost in nursery per M. | | digging per M | | hauling per M | | planting per M| ---| Ground Cover 21.2 acres | | 1,693,000 plants @ 9" apart | | 3,696,000 plants @ 6" apart | | cost in nursery per M | | digging per M | | hauling per M | | planting per M| ---| Total --B-[Clump?] Landscape Planting 308 acres to cover 150 acres ordinary stock of shrubs @ 18" apart 19360 to A 2,904,000 plants | | cost in nursery per M | | digging per M | | hauling per M | | planting per M| ---| 20000 trees in addition | | cost in nursery per M | | digging per M | | hauling per M | | planting per M| ---| 158 acres forest planting | | @($25.00?) per acre | --|---C. Cheapest Planting 308 acres to be covered 2.5 acres ordinary stock of shrubs. @ 18" apart to [retain] cover important views. 484[M] plants cost in nursery per M -- digging " hauling " planting per M " _____ 283 acres forest planting @ ($25.00?) per acre _____ _____19360 x25 -------------- 96800 38720 ------------- =484,000 1 1/2 1 1/2 -------------- 3/4 1 1/2 --------------- =2 1/4 43560 38720 ------------ 484 +9360 2.25) 43560 (19,360 225 ----------- 2106 2025 ------------ 810 675 ---------- 1350 1350 ----------- 43560 38720 4040 Basis for estimate of cost of Arboretum planting [*35 - 41 210 246*] Total number of species to be represented Large trees 250 Small trees & large shrubs 750 Small shrubs 1000 2000 Total length of Arboretum 52670 ft Length of typical section for which planting study has been made 3400 ft Proportion of total length 6.4% Number of species represented on typical section Large trees 19 Small trees +large shrubs 45 Small shrubs 64 128 [Upon the typical section] the plan for the typical section calles for the [following] planting of the following:Specimens large trees 10 Species 76 individuals Small trees and large shrubs 45 Species 180 " Small shrubs 64 " 256 " Groups and masses (systematic) Large trees 159,854 sq. ft. [*[Reduce all these square ft to [????es.]*] Small trees & large shrubs 132149 sq ft. Small shrubs 216705 sq ft. Cheap undergrowth 297120 sq ft. Ground cover 59 644 sq ft. On this basis the whole arboretum would require the following: [Same form as the above but all figures multiplied by 15.49] Specimes Large Trees 250 species 1000 indiv. Small trees & large shrubs 750 " 3000" small shrubs 1000 " 4000 "Groups and masses systematic. Large trees planted [5' apart would take 99000] 2475000 sq. ft. = 56.8 A 4 " " " about 155000 Small trees & large shrubs planted [4' apart would take 127937] 2047000 sq. ft. = 47.0 A 3' " " " about 278000 Small shrubs planted [3' apart would take 373000] 3357000 sq. ft. = 77.0 A [2 1/2 " " 537120] 2' " " " about 537120 Cheap undergrowth planted [2 1/2' apart would take 739200] 4602000 = 105.6 A [2' " " 1250500] 1 1/2' " " about 2225000 Ground cover 924000 = 21.2 A. planted 1' apart would take 924000 9" " " about 1693000 6" " " " 36960000Basis for estimate of cost of Hauling. team and driver, @ $ 2.50 per day after making allowance for time Cost in going to and returning from work and time lost in loading and unloading, will [haul] cover [a longhaul] between 12 and 14 miles, half the time loaded. [i.e. will haul 6 to 7] [load-miles per day] i.e. hauling will cost 35 to 41 cents per mile per load. ¶ A Stone load of stone weighs about 1 1/3 ton [and] therefore the cost of hauling is from 25 to 30 cents per ton mile Plants The average haul from the Nursery to the whole Arboretum being 6 Milesthe hauling should cost about $2.40 per load Specimens [table of 2 columns] ---| Cost of hauling [costs] Trees & large shrubs 24 to the load per M |100. small shrubs 48. to the load per M | 50. For Groups and Masses Trees & large shrubs 500 to the load per M. | 4.80 small shrubs & cheap undergrowth 1000 to the load per M | 2.40 ground cover 2000 to the load per M. | 1.20 144 4.8 =240 240 155 =186.40 25 240 240 48 =74.40 16Schedule of Amount of broken stone and length of haul. Section Length Average haul Tons of stone from * from * 8' width 16' width Biltmore Busbee 6" deep 4" deep Entrance to 4 Mile Branch Bridge 1800' 17950' Constructed 4 M. Br. Bridge to 6M. Branch at cross section +3 14100' 24100' 11600 3525 4230 Rhododendron Valley 6000' 29500' 9500 1500 1800 Rhodo. Valley to Arrowhead Pass. 14800' 33600' 17900 3700 4440 Arrowhead Pass to Johnson Valley 7400' 34700 21900 1850 2220 Conifer section 9000' 30700 17900 9250 2700 Total 12825 15390 General Average 30159' 15762 (weighted) 5.7 Miles 3. Miles Total amount of From Biltmore 73,102 87,723 { haul in ton-miles From Busbee 38,475 46,170 *In reckoning the haul from Biltmore it is measured from the siding at the Swannanoa Bridge and along the shortest route in each case. The distance from Busbee siding assumes the opening of a road down 6 Mile Branch from the RailroadRoad Construction Shaping & rolling [?] Grading, banks etc A. Earthroad, 16' irde. B. 16' macadam (4") C. 8' macadam in the 8'earth each side including shaping of filled 10100 yds Lee 268000 yds Lee banks and overhaul @ 50¢ Say 20,000 10000 Say 20000 1000 Say 40000 20000 Pipe drains, Lee's est. g.v. 2040 2040 2280 18 Bridges Rough woody Cement rubble Narrow cement bridges @ #50 900 @$700.00 12600 rubble @ #500 9000 100 catch basin covers Grading in Rho. Valley *& hauling of soil - say 1000 2000 2000 crushed stone none 15,390 tons 12825 tons @ @ hauling none 87723 ton mile 73102 ton miles loading and # @30 2308 # @ 30¢ 1923 spreading @ 15¢ per ton 5000 2500 rolling & watering 1000 @ about 5¢ per sq yd # If hauled from Busbee instead from Biltmore | *F.L.O. Jr. estimated 27280 for side slopes these figures would be respectively | retaining present width which is about 18' 46170 ton miles and 38475 ton miles Initial Expenses other than Road Construction --- |A. Complete Arboretum | B. Cheap & skp Ptg. | C. Cheapest Forest Ptg. with views Cost of plants & planting see p. see p. see p. Preparation of soil 308 A 150 A @ included in cost rest included in of planting cost of planting Cultivation for 3 years 308 A @ 308 A @ None. Permanent Labelling Library. Herbarium and Office buildingSq. ft Dia " 25 000 | 6" | 3" 50 000 | 4.3 75 000 | 5.4 ---- 100 000 | 6.2 125 000 8" 7.0 150 000 7.6 175 000 8.2 200 000 10" 8.8 250 000 9.8 300 000 12" 10.7 350 000 11.6 400 000 12.4 450 000 13.2 500 000 16" 13.8 600 000 15.1 700 000 18" 16.3 800 000 17.4 900 000 24" 18.5 1 000 000 19.7 2000 000 27.7 14000 cu ft. $30,000 [2 sketches of buildings ] Gifford Pinchot, Consulting Forester, United Charities Building New York Fourth Ave. and 22nd St. 6 x 110 12 x 110 25 Herb. 30 x 30 Lib 20 x 30 Lab 15 x 30 Off. 15 x 30 School 30 x 30Construction [*74729 2655 73074*] 100 Road est & grading 60 Bridges etc. 50 Prep of soil 60 Plants 60 Planting 60 [Library] [Herbarium] Museum Building 25,000. [*8772 5117 2655*] [*82875 4486 78389*] [*6040*] Maintenance Road and drainage etc. 13,000. Planting Investigations and publications $1000. Library maintenance $8000. Herbarium & development $5000. [General maintenance] 1500. Development of Arboretum 2500. [*10 526 5040 5486 46*] [*4117*]X Biltmore Mr. John Nolen had material to write article in his "House & Garden", series on FLO Sr's work TK better check up this material. Brick House, Saturday. [?] Sitting up today and probably on the turn but very slowly. No chance of my getting away under three or four days. I will telegraph you the day before I leave of my intention so that you can address me at Atlanta, Chatnoga or Nashville. I shall be at Altan. till the 30 day after, Chatga. 4, Nash'll 5 + 6th Remember foot warmer, pocket scale & a conference with them about estimate. F.L O.[*X Bilt Letters about Plants & design at Biltmore*] February 8th, 1890, to Mr. Gall. June 11th, 1890, " January 28th, 1891, " Mr. Vanderbilt. March 12th, 1891, " Mr. Gall July 29th, 1891 " Mr. McNamee August 28th, 1891 " Mr. Gall October 27th, 1891, instructions to Mr. Gall for work winter 1891. December 24th, 1892 to Mr. McNamee April 3rd, 1893, " Mr. Gall May 3rd, 1893, " Mr. Vanderbilt July 21st, 1893, " " " September 30th, 1893 " Mr. McNamee December 15th, 1893, " " " " 30th, " " Mr. Vanderbilt. - [*arboretum scheme*] April 5th, 1894, " " McNamee December 4th, 1894, " " " " 21st, " " " " " 28th, 1894 " " Gall, planting instructions for winter and Spring 1895. July 16th, 1895. " " " " 31st, " " " Beadle August 20th, 1895 " " " November 1st, 1895 " " Gall " 2nd " " " Beadle December 12th, 1895 " " " April 15th, 1896 " " Vanderbilt December 7th, 1896 " " " " 9th " " " Galla-b=4"ver b-c=24" hor c-d=8" hor e-d=1 1/2" ver d-d=64" hor g=18" thick h=8" outisde h-h =9 1/3 ft length (N & S)=11 10/12 a pool, fed from W.Spring, overflow under d b mossy lip c slope of small ferns d flat rock floor e Stairs f Seat g wall, lower, but connected with [?] growing in pockets below & through crannies. ferns in crannies. battered h Reserve of water fed from E. Spring the over flow moistening c & b X Biltmore? A Seat & back B Floor C Basin of concrete, stone & covering of sand D Flat topped stairs, covered with moss packets of soil below E Leaf mould with sufficient stone to allow slope of 1/2 to1. Ferns F Bridge stones supported on piers; pockets between piers, with soil for ivy to [?] face of wall above; ivy & ferns to grow out of it and through chinks between stones. G Loose wall so laid that water from trough at H will drip through & moisten from bed at E and moss bed at D H Reservoir trough (the overflow and percolation of which will keep all moist) to be fed by pipes from the East Spring. K All necessary strength of retaining wall can be built back of F.K. Pipe from west Spring to discharge between C and D 64 18 18 _____ 100 16 _____ 12)116 )112 (9 1/3 ft) 12) 142 11.10/12The summers are not as warm as in most of the Southern [part] half of this region; the winters are not as cold as is most of [in the] its northern [parts] half, but at intervals of perhaps twenty years the mercury is liable to fall for a brief period so low that few trees survive that are not hardy [in near in the Northernmost parts.] on its northern border. The mean annual temperature is probably not far from the mean of [that reg the edi] the entire regionThe mean [temperature [both] both during the summer and the winter [?? is] does not probably vary much ] from the meanBr 0 8 89600 8 121600 8 9600 4 Br 6 18 723200 16 582400 8 102400 10 8 115200 12 377600 16 544000 8 89600 15 8 108800 12 262400 16 416000 18 678400 20 [bridge] large pipe 21 Bridge 10 172800 8 108800 23 Bridge 24 Pipe + 1 16 403200 26 pipes 27 16 620800 28 Bridge 29 " 8 134400 30 lg pipe + 4 10" pipe * 16 524800 32 lg pipe + 3 pipes * 16 51200 33 lg pipe * 12 34300 * 6 70400 41 8 1196800 42 18 748800 43 lg pipe * See notes 18 Bridges 45 .22 8 ' 140880 [*46 Bridge*] 47 2.53 24 ' 1619200 48 .12 6 ' 76800 *49 .07 6 ' 34300 50 .13 6 ' 83200 51 .50 12 ' 320000 52 1.02 cul ' 972800 53 .25 10 ' 160000 54 .59 12 ' 377600 55 .54 12' 345600 56 .79 16 ' 505600 57 .76 8 ' 102400 58 .18 8' 115200 59 .17 8' 108800 60 .10 6' 64000 61 1.62 24' 1036800 62 3.40 cul' 2176000 63 2.91 cul' 1862400 65 .25 10' 160000 66 .17 8' 108800 67 .14 8' 89600 72 .71 16' 454400 73 .10 6' 64000 74 1.57 24' 1004800 80 .22 8' 140800 *see notes [*Bridge*] [*64 Bridge*] [*68 69 Bridges 70 71*] [*75 Bridge 76 77 pipes 78*] [*81 Bridge*] 83 3.25 cul' 2099200 84 .16 8' 102400 85 .25 10' 160000 86 .49 12' 313600 87 .10 6' 64000 88 .18 8' 115200 89 .15 8' 96000 91 .08 6' 51200 92 .15 8' 96000 93 .52 12' 332800 95 .66 16' 422400 96 .82 16' 524800 97 .42 12' 268800 99 .18 8' 115200 101 .14 8' 89600 103 .14 8' 89600 104 .23 8' 147200 105 .25 10' 160000 106 .16 8' 102400 107 .45 12' 288000 108 Bridge 109 .11 6' 70400 110 .35 10' 224000 111 .19 8' 121.600 113 .18 8' 115200 114 .22 8' 140800 *not understood116.19 8 121600 117.23 8 147200 6-9 @50 porcal 500 8-31 1550 10-6 300 12-10 500 16-11 550 18 3 100 24 3 150 cul 4 200PROJECT OF THE BILTMORE ARBORETUM. The climatic conditions of the site are intermediate between those of the northern, the southern, the eastern and the western parts of that region [so much] of the United States which extends from the Atlantic to the [as lies east of the] Great Plains.[, being an area of about 7 square miles.] During the spring and early summer there are more frequent and copious falls [More frequent and copious showers commonly fall upon the site] of rain that occur throughout the region on an average and the winters during the early summer months, and the winters are commonly are probably slightly colder than the average. [harder than they are, on an average, in most other parts of] [the eastern half of the United States; but,] Occasionally, at intervals it may be of [for] twenty years, the mercury falls much below its [usual] lowest depression in ordinary winters and [, but notwithstanding this, a] few trees survive that are not hardy in the [a] greater part of the region. The rate of yearly growth and the maximum size of most of the trees which grow [growing] naturally upon the site, does not vary greatly from the average of the same species, as they [grow] are found growing in the eastern half of the United States. [throughout the region so defined.] The soil of the site is of less than the average fertility but perhaps, generally of a little more than the average depth. [of the region, and it varies considerably in different parts, but] It is mainly [a rather thin] clayey loam with a porus sub-soil. Considering the [its occasionally] somewhat rugged topography of much of it, the site is of a similar character that represents district[s], which, in Europe, are as a rule, thought to be more profitably devoted to forestry rather than to agriculture. There are few, if any, other places in the eastern half of the continent, in which a larger range of woody plants grow naturally. Among them, there are some that are indigenous to the southern parts of the region and not to the northern; others, which grow naturally in the northern and not in the southern parts of it.-2- Having regard to all these circumstances, it is considered that the site is not an unsuitable one in which to establish a collection of such trees and other woody plants as may be hoped to be successful and desirable, under the conditions above defined, for use in the eastern half of the continent. It is proposed to plan this arboretum more particularly as a field for studying the value of extensive plantings, made with reference to the management of economic forests and the composition of scenery, and the difference is to be observed between the two objects thus set forth, and those commonly had in view in the planting of orchards, gardens, dooryards, graveyards and other places not admitting of treatment with a view to such softening and blending of forms and tints, as a result of gradations through distance. With a view to the things thus stated, a main arboretum road is to be laid out in such a manner that the ground bordering upon it will be of considerable variety with respect to situation exposure and soil, and as far as practicable, consistently with a predominating regard for the main purpose above stated, it is to be made a pleasant route to be followed by those having no purpose of study. To this end, presentation of agreeable prospects at a distance is to be had in view, as well as the presentation of interesting objects of the immediate borders of the road. Beginning near the entrance to this road, trees and lesser woody plants are to be set agrowing on its borders, families and genera following each other mainly in the order adopted in Bentham and Hooker's General Plantarum, and which is known as the natural order. But variations from this order may be occasionally made, if by such variations, plants of a particular genus or series of genera can be placed under conditions better adapted to-3- their health and development, and to the better exhibition of their respective distinct characteristics. It is intended to include in the arboretum specimens of every species, and of such varieties as are adapted to the purpose stated, which are now in cultivation and which may be distinguished by peculiarities in growth, foliage, flowers and fruit. In general, varieties will be admitted to the arboretum road having special qualities by which the character of passages of scenery will be affected for a considerable period, and not, for example, merely for the brief flowering season. That those seeking information that will be useful in the designing of plantations for scenery, or in the planting of economic forests, may find what is required for their purposes within reasonable limits of space, varieties of plants will be excluded from the arboretum road that are chiefly interesting because of strikingly abnormal qualities not recommending them to be used, either as elements of pleasing landscape composition or with a view to commercial profit in economic forestry; also such varieties as are only distinguishable from others of the same species by peculiarities of their flowers or their fruits, and which have no other qualities that are notable because of their effect in the composition of scenery. If any such varieties were included, it would be for the purpose of illustrating distinct types in variations of this character. A special place may be provided apart from that of the main Arboretum for a collection of varieties, which, because phenominal in these or other respects, are more interesting as curiosities than as objects of instruction with regard to scenery or to forestry. Not less than four specimens are to be planted near the road of each species and variety of trees to be exhibited. A part of the specimens planted will be removed before they come to crowd one another, leaving two or more of those-4- which promise to best represent the character of the tree, and they are to be given sufficient room for the branches to spread at least on two opposite sides to the greatest distance that they would be likely to spread if wholly unimpeded. At a suitable distance behind such spreading specimen trees, others of the same species are to be planted, with a view to the exhibition of their character when grown in groups. At a suitable distance beyond these groups would be the natural forest, or the forest acres referred to hereafter, and these would be faced with trees of the kinds represented by the individual trees and groups to show their effect in combination with other trees in mass. In order to study the habit, character, rate and economic value of the growth of trees under different conditions in a forest, it is the purpose to provide near the families, in which there are trees, areas of several acres extent on which there may be planted an acre each of such trees as are deemed worthy of trial either by themselves or in mixture with other trees. While it is not deemed essential that such forest acres shall be immediately adjacent to the corresponding tree in the Arboretum road, it is the intention to have them so arranged that a student will not be compelled to go much out of his way to study a tree under all the conditions in which it will be placed. The ground above and between the trees of the Arboretum is to be generally planted with the collection of bushes, vines and creepers, and, as far as practicable, consistently with its two leading purposes, such shrubs are to be displayed before and between the trees, of the same genus that they are associated in the natural order. In placing these shrubs, the purpose is to be kept in view to have them eventually illustrate the value of shrubs of each species; first,[*5*] -4- when standing singly or as specimens; second, when clustered in groups; third, when in mass, standing in open ground; fourth, when growing as underwood. Finally, as with trees so with shrubs, considerable elasticity must be allowed in all the rules, the interests of those seeking pleasure from scenery being consulted as far as may be, without putting students to serious inconvenience. To avoid the excessive care and expense that would otherwise be necessary, it is not intended to introduce paths or to keep turf spaces open that will serve as paths, but to provide a ground [avenue] cover of low shrubs or covering plants, which will not be injured if occasionally trodden upon, over which students may without inconvenience pass and come nearer to the specimens than they would be able to come if following the road. The material used for this purpose will not necessarily be of the same genus as that of the collection with which they are used. If economy of space or the convenience of students is to be observed by it, shrubs of a particular genus may be taken out of the places which they would have if the natural order were to be strictly followed, and be sent before, among or a little in advance of the trees near which they would be placed if the natural order were strictly followed. In this respect it is to be provided simply, that when a student coming to one species of the genus, wishes to examine another species of the same genus, he may expect to find it near by. The same will be true with reference to the forest acres. When a specially promising, young, vigorous tree or bush of any kind is found growing naturally on the Arboretum-6- or any of its branches, it is not necessarily to be removed in order to secure an adherance to the rule of pursuing the natural order. In such a case, consideration is to be given to its value, as an element of scenery rather than as an object of instruction.------------------------------ PROJECT OF THE BILTMORE ARBORETUM. with notes [?] by W [?] ------------------------------ Drafts of the scheme submitted to G. W. V. Dec 31,1893. Third draft - TK *G. W. Vanderbilt to be looked over Some might be of interest to Mrs. VPersonalgrowth of most of the species of trees naturally growing upon the site is [about] [the average rate for] the same species in all that legion. The size ultimately attained by these trees is also about most of the same trees, [same trees] on an average, in all of the legions. PROJECT OF THE BILTMORE ARBORETUM. The climatic conditions of the site are intermediate between those of the northern, the southern, [the eastern and the western] the coastward, and the furthest inland parts of the region of the United States which lies to the Eastward of Kansas [parts of so much of the United States which is [as lies] east of the [great plains] Kansas], [being an area of about square miles.] The rate of growth of [yearly growth and the maximum size of most] of the trees growing naturally upon a site, does not vary greatly [with] from that of the same species, on an average, as they grow throughout the region so defined.] most of the species of tree naturally growing upon the site is believed not to be ??? very difft from the average rate of growth, being [much] less than it is in some other parts of the State and greater than it is in most of Maryland [or in some of the parts] and ¶The soil varies considerably in different parts of the site, but is mainly [a rather thin,] clayey loam, above a stiffer [with a suitable] clayey sub-soil, rarely if ever a "hard pan". It is of less than the average fertility. [of the region,] Considering its [occasionally] somewhat rugged topography, the site resembles [represents] districts, which, in Europe, are, as a rule, thought to be more profitably appropriated [prepared] to forestry [rather] than to agriculture. ¶More frequent and copious showers commonly fall [fell] upon the site during the early Summer months than[,] on an average, in most other parts of the eastern half of the United States. The Winters are commonly milder [harder] than they are, on an average, throughout the region, but occasionally,[.] at intervals, it may be of [, for] twenty years, the mercury falls much below its usual lowest depression, and [a] few trees survive [surviving] that are not hardy, in the northernmost States east of the Mississippi [a greater part of the region]. ¶All things considered, there are few, if any, other places in the eastern half of the continent, in which a larger range of woody plants grows naturally. Among them, there are some that are indigenous to theto the southern parts of the region, and not to the northern; others, which grew naturally in the northern and not in the southern parts of it. Having regard to all these circumstances, it is considered that the site is not an unsuitable one in which to provide for the study of such trees or woody plants as may be hoped to be valuable for use in the eastern part of the continent, whether for the [a] composition of scenery or for [of] the economic forest[ry] cultivation of trees. The proposed arboretum is to be planned with the purpose suggested in the last sentence [which has this been defined], and more particularly as a field for determine [study of] the value of extensive planting in the [w]eastern half of the continent, of all such trees and woody plants as may be desirably[e,] grown with reference either to forestry or to scenery, [that can be grown] under such conditions as have been above defined. The difference is to be observed between the two objects thus set forth, [of the composition of scenery, and the management of economic forests,] and those commonly had in view in [of] the planting of orchards, gardens, dooryards, graveyards and other places not admitting of treatment with a view to such [?] [softening] and blending of forms and tints as will [a] result [of] gradations through distance. With a view to the ends [things] this stated, a [the] road is to be laid out in[n] such a manner that the ground bordering upon it will be of considerable variety with respect to aspects and to soils. This road [roa] is to be referred to hereafter in this paper as the["Main] "Arboretum Road." Beginning near the entrance to the Arboretum Road, [this road,] trees and lesser woody plant are to be set a growing on its borders, species following species in a sequence [order,] mainly corresponding to that generally adopted in modern books[,] treating of them, and which is known as "the natural order". But variations from this order are to be occasionally made, [or] by such variations, plants of a particular species or series of species can be placed under conditions especially to be desired[,] with a view, first, to their health and development, second, to the exhibition of their respective distinct characteristics. Variations will be the excluded [executed], the distinctions of which from others of every species[,] consists in penclarities of their flowers or their fruits, rather than in qualities that are notable because of their effect in the composition of scenery or in the value of their products. A special place may be provided, apart from that of the main Arboretum, for a collection of varieties which, because phenominal in these or other respect, are more interesting as curiosities than as objects of instruction, with regard to scenery or to forestry. As far as practicable, consistently with a predominating regard for the two main purposes of the Arboretum, the [above stated the Arboretum] road is to be made a pleasant [present] route to be followed by those having no purpose of study. To this end, inlaying out the Arboretum, the presentation of agreeable prospects at a distance, is to be [in few,] had in view, as well as the presentation of interesting objects on [of] the immediate borders of the roads.Not less than four specimens are to be placed near the road, of each [specimen] species of trees to be exhibited. Before these four trees come to crowd one another, two of them are to be removed, leaving the two which promise to best represent the character of others of their species when grown with room for branching, [the] to spread at least on two opposite sides to be the greatest distance that they would be likely to spread [is] wholly unimpeded. At a suitable distance behind such spreading specimen trees, others of the same species are to be planted, with a view to the exhibition of the character of trees of the same species when grown in groups. It is not intended to include in the arboretum specimens of every variety which may be distinguishable from others of its species by peculiarities of flowers or fruit, or even [of] forms of foliage. In general, varieties will be admitted, by the special qualities, of which the character of [the] a passage of scenery will be affected for a considerable period, and not, for example, mainly for [the] a brief flowering season. That those seeking information which will be useful in the proportions of scenery, or the planting of scenic forests, they find what is required for their purposes within reasonable litmus of space, varieties of plants will be excluded that are chiefly interesting because of strikingly abnormal qualities not recommending them to be used either aselements of pleasing landscape compositions or with a view to commercial profit in economic forestry. Where varieties, distinguished from others by peculiarities of fruit or flower are introduced, it will generally be for the purpose of illustrating different types of variations. The ground above and between the trees of the arboretum is to be generally planted with bushes, vines and creepers, and as far as practicable, consistently with its two leading purposes, such shrubs are to be displayed before and between the trees of each genus, as are associated with that genus in the "natural order." In placing these shrubs, the purpose is to be kept in view to have them eventually illustrate the value of shrubs of each of the species, whereafter, first, when standing singly, or as specimens; second, when clustered in groups; third, when in masses, [standing in open ground]; fourth, when growing as underwood. Finally, as with trees, so with shrubs, considerable elasticity [must] is to be allowed in all the rules, the interests of those seeking pleasure form scenery being committed as far as may be, without putting students to serious inconvenience. To avoid the excessive care and expense which would otherwise be necessary, it is not intended to introduce paths or to keep turf spaces open that will serve as paths, by using which, students can [have] for close observation, come nearer trees than they would be able to come if following the road. But care will betaken in passing under and near the trees to make it profitable to walk from the road to them, passing only [every] over suchlow and generally trailing bushes and creepers as will not be injured if essentially trodden upon. The material used for this purpose will not necessarily be of the same genus as that of the plants growing adjoining which are representatives of the genera to be represented in following the natural order. When economy of space or the convenience of students is to be served by it, shrubs of a particular species may be taken [to have] out of the places which they would have if the natural order were to be strictly followed, and sent before, among, or a little in advance of the trees near which they would be placed if the natural order were strictly followed. In this respect it is to be provided, simply that when a student coming to one species of the genus, wishes to examine another species of the same genus, he may expect to find it nearby. When a specially promising, young, vigorous tree or bush of any kind is found growing naturally on the Arboretum road or any of its branches, it is not necessarily to be removed in order to secure an adherence to the rule of perusing the natural order. In such a case, consideration is to be given to its value, as an element of scenery rather than as an object of instruction.[2] 1 PROJECT OF THE Biltmore ARBORETUM The climatic conditions of the site are intermediate between those of the norther, [the] southern, [the] eastern and [the] western parts of so much of the United States as lies east of the great plains, being an area of about square miles. More frequent and copius showers commonly fall upon the site during the early Summer months and the Winters are commonly harder than they are [there,] on an average in most other parts of the eastern half of the United States [on an average, throughout the region, for] Occasionally at intervals, it may be, for twenty years, the mercury falls much below its usual lowest depression, but notwithstanding this a few trees survive [surviving] that are not hardy, in a greater part of the region. The rate of yearly growth and the maximum size of most of the trees growing naturally upon the [a] site, does not vary greatly [with] from the average [that] of the same species, [on an average,] as they grow throughout the region so defined. The soil of the site is of less than the average fertility of the region and it varies considerably in different parts, but is mainly a rather thin, clayey loam, with a porus [suitable clayey sub-] soil. [It is of less than the average fertility of the region,] Considering its occasionally somewhat rugged topography, the site represents districts, which in Europe are, as a rule, thought to be more profitably devoted [prepared] to forestry rather than to agriculture. [All things considered,] There are few, if any, other places in the eastern half of the continent, in which a larger range of woody plants grows naturally. Among them, there are some that are indigenous to [*[3] 2*] to the southern parts of the region, and not to the northern; others, which grow naturally in the northern and not in the southern parts of it. Having regard to all these circumstances, it is considered that the site is not an unsuitable one, in which to establish a collection [profile for the study] of such trees and other [trees or] woody [?] plants as may be hoped to be successful and desirable under the conditions about defined [valuable] for use in the eastern half of the continent. [whether for a] [in the] [composition of scenery or] [of] [for economic forestry.] It is proposed to plant this arboretum [is to be planted with the purpose which has this been defined, and], more particularly as a field for studying [of] the value of extensive plantings made with reference to the management of economic forests and [in the eastern half of the continent, of all such trees and woody plants as may be desirable, with reference to forestry or scenery, that can be grown under such conditions as have been above defined.] the composition of scenery and the difference is to be observed between the two objects thus set forth, [the composition of scenery, and the management of economic forests,] and these commonly had in view in [of] the planting of orchards, gardens, dooryards, graveyards and other places not admitting of treatment with a view to such softenening and blending of forms and tints as a result of gradations through distance. With a view to the things this stated, a main Arboretum road's [the road is] to be laid out in such a manner that the ground bordering upon it will be of considerable variety with respect to situation exposure and [to] soil. [This road is to be referred to hereafter in this paper as the] [4] 3 And as far as practicable, consistently with a predominating regard for the two main purpose above stated it [the Arboretum road] is to be made a pleasant [present] route to be followed by those having no purpose of study. To this end, presentation of agreeable prospects at a distance, is to be [in few,] had in view, as well as the presentation of interesting objects of the immediate borders of the road. ["Main Arboretum Road."] Beginning near the entrance to this road, trees and lesser woody plants are to be set agrowing on its borders, families and genera following each other mainly in the order adopted in Bentham and Hooker's Genera Plantarum [species following species in order, mainly corresponding to that generally adopted in modern books, treating of them,] and which is known as the natural order. But variations from this order [are to] may be occasionally made, if [or] by such variations, plants of a particular genus [species] or series of genera [species] can be placed under conditions better adapted, [especially to be desired, with a view, first,] to their health and development, [second,] and to the exhibition of their respective distinct characteristics. # [*See next page for # *] Also such varieties a are only distinguishable from other [varieties] of this same species by [Variations will be executed, the distinctions of which from others of every species, consists in] pecularities of their flowers or their fruits, [rather than in] and which have no other qualities that are notable because of their effect in the composition of scenery. Many such varieties were included it would be for the purpose of illustrating distinct types in variations of this character. A special place may be provided apart from that of the main Arboretum, for a collection of varieties which, because phenominal in these or other respect, are more interesting as curiosities than as objects of instruction, with regard to scenery or to forestry. Trees in edge of woods At a suitable distance beyond these groups would be the natural forest, or the forest acres referred to hereafter, and these would be faced with trees of the kinds represented by the individual trees and groups to show their effect in combination with other trees in mass. Forest acres 2 arboretum road it is the intention to have them so arranged that a student will not be compelled to go much out of his way to study a tree under all the conditions in which it will be placed Forest acres 1 In order to study the habit, character, rate and economic value of the growth of trees under different conditions in a forest it is the purpose to provide near the families, in which there are trees, areas of several acres extant on which there may be planted an acre each of such trees as are deemed worthy of trial either by themselves or in mixture with other trees while it is not deemed essential that such forest acres shall be immediately ajacent to the corresponding tree on thebelong it [will always] be the purpose to have them at a point[5] 4 Not less than four specimens are to be planted near the road, of each species and variety [specimen] of trees to be exhibited. A part of the specimens planted will be removed before they [Before these four trees] come to crowd one another, [two of them are to be removed,] leaving [the] two or more of those which promise to best represent the character of [others of their species when grown with room for branches, the] of the tree and they are to be given sufficient room for the branches to spread at least on two opposite sides to the greatest distance that they would be likely to spread if [in] wholly unimpeded. At a suitable distance behind much spreading specimen trees, others of the same species are to be planted, with a view to the exhibition of their character of [?] in safe of woods Forest acres [of trees of the same species] when grown in groups. [* # coming back to # *] # It is intended to include in the arboretum specimens of every species and of such varieties as are adapted to the purpose stated, which are now in cultivation and which may be distinguished by peculiarities in growth, foliage, flowers and fruit. [of every variety which may be distinguishable from others of its species by peculiarities of flowers or fruit, or even of form of foliage.] In general, varieties will be admitted to the arboretum road having [, by the] special qualities, by [of] which the character of [the] passages of scenery will be affected for a considerable period, and not, for example, [merely] for the brief flowering season. That those seeking information which will be useful in the designing of plantations for [proportions of] scenery, or in the planting of economic forests, [they] may find what is required for their purposes within reasonable limits of space, varieties of plants will be excluded from the arboretum road that are chiefly interesting because of strikingly abnormal qualities not recommending them to be used either as elements of pleasing landscape composition or with a view to commercial profit in economic forestry[6] 5 [elements of pleasing landscape compositions or with a view to commercial profit in economic forestry. Where varieties,[are] distinguished from others by peculiarities of fruit or flower are introduced, it will generally be for the purpose of illistrating different types of variation.] The ground above and between the trees of the arboretum is to be generally planted with the collection of bushes, vines and creepers, and as far as practicable, consistently with its two leading purposes, such shrubs are to be displayed before and between the trees, of the same genus that they [the genus as] are associated with [that genus] in the natural order. In placing these shrubs, the purpose is to be kept in view to have them eventually illustrate the value of shrubs of each species, first, when standing singly, or as specimens; second, when clustered in groups; third, when in mass [moss], standing in open ground; fourth, the scene will be that with reference to the forest acres, when growing as underwood. Finally, as with trees,so with shrubs, considerable elasticity must be allowed in all the rules, the interests of these seeking pleasure from scenery being consulted as far as may be, without putting students to serious inconvenience. To avoid the excessive care and expense which would otherwise be necessary, it is not intended to introduce paths or to keep turf spaces open that will serve as paths but to provide a ground covering of low shrubs or covering plants, which will not be injured if occasionally trodden upon over which students may without inconvenience pass and [paths, by using which, students can have close observation,] come nearer to the specimens [trees] than they would be able to come if following the road. [But case will be taken in passing under and near the trees to make it profitable to walk from the road to them, passing only every arch][*6*] [low and generally trailing bushes and creepers as will not be injured if occasionally trodden upon? The] material used for this purpose will not necessarily be of the same genus as that of the plants growing of the collection with which they are used. [adjoining which are representative of the genera to be represented in following the natural order.] If economy of space or the convenience of students is to be served by it, shrubs of a particular genus [species] may be taken out of [to have] the places which they would have if the natural order were to be strictly followed, and sent [*set ?JR*] before, among, or a little in advance of the trees near which they would be placed if the natural order were strictly followed. In this respect it is to be provided, simply that when a student coming to one species of the genus, wishes to examine another species of the same genus, he may expect to find it nearby. The same will be true with reference to the forest acres. When a specially promising, young, vigorous tree or bush of any kind is found growing naturally on the Arboretum road or any of its branches, it is not necessarily to be removed in order to secure an adherence to the rule of pursuing [persuing] the natural order. In such a case, consideration is to be given to its value, as an element of scenery rather than as an object of instruction.G. W. Vanderbilt. 642 Fifth Ave. N. York. cannot reach NewYork Friday. Shall you be at home next week? if not might come Saturday. F. L. Olmsted