Dumbarton Oaks: a Landscape of Cultural and Social Distinction

Dumbarton Oaks is an important piece of culture mainly for two reasons. First, it is significant and unusual place because it is the last example of the elite private gardens and estates that started in the Gilded Age. Secondly, Dumbarton Oaks is an iconic representation for how women entered the professional fields. Landscape architecture was one way to enter these fields; gardening was an appropriate "hobby turned profession" for women. Beatrix Jones Farrand was the professional woman who designed Dumbarton Oaks. More than just designing this work, Beatrix's historical importance in America has something to do with her as a professional woman landscape architect and how this paved the way for other women in professional roles.

Originally published on the XRoads site for the UVA American Studies program. Years range from 1995-2005. Content is captured at the level of functionality available on the date of capture.