Chapter III: Landscape Units & Character-Defining Features

Transcription

1 ST. ELIZABETHS WEST CAMPUS LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION PLAN Chapter III: Landscape Units & Character-Defining Features A. INTRODUCTION The starting point for sound recommendations for the preservation of St. Elizabeths West Campus is twofold: documentation of the circa landscape character and features; and inventory of the campus landscape character and features. The character and features of the historic and the current landscape include aspects and elements that remain intact and/or are degraded or missing from the historic period that is depicted on the plan. The integrity of the landscape today, meaning the degree to which it is recognizable and embodies the identity of its historic period, is linked to the character-defining features enumerated in the Cultural Landscape Report (CLR). For this effort, both the and the mapping and characterdefining features were studied again as an updated reference set for the proposed 2016 West Campus landscape as envisioned after preservation and rehabilitation treatment interventions and the integration of upgraded infrastructure and security for the campus. The contributing character-defining campus features are presented for the late 1930s and 1940s using the Period Plan set, and for the current condition using the plan set. This chapter presents reviewed and refined information as a series of plans: five overall plans each for the and periods, augmented by two sets of four detailed quadrant views for certain features in both eras. These plans are the key reference for the materials presented in Chapter 3. Character-defining features present at the end of the period of significance are noted on the quad plans, and their updated presence or absence is recorded on the set of quad plans. The graphic references for this chapter are titled: Plan 9: Land Uses Overall Plan 10: Visual Spaces & Views Overall Plan 11: Trees, Shrubs, Turf, Meadows, Overall Plan 11nw: Trees, Shrubs, Turf, Meadows, NW Plan 11ne: Trees, Shrubs, Turf, Meadows, NE Plan 11sw: Trees, Shrubs, Turf, Meadows, SW Plan 11se: Trees, Shrubs, Turf, Meadows, SE III.1

2 Plan 12: Woodlands & Ravines, Overall Plan 13: Circulation Elements & Objects, Overall Plan 13nw: Circulation Elements & Objects, NW Plan 13ne: Circulation Elements & Objects, NE Plan 13sw: Circulation Elements & Objects, SW Plan 13se: Circulation Elements & Objects, SE Plan 14: Land Uses Overall Plan 15: Visual Spaces & Views Overall Plan 16: Trees, Shrubs, Turf, Meadows, Overall Plan 16nw: Trees, Shrubs, Turf, Meadows, NW Plan 16ne: Trees, Shrubs, Turf, Meadows, NE Plan 16sw: Trees, Shrubs, Turf, Meadows, SW Plan 16se: Trees, Shrubs, Turf, Meadows, SE Plan 17: Woodlands & Ravines, Overall Plan 18: Circulation Elements & Objects, Overall Plan 18nw: Circulation Elements & Objects, NW Plan 18ne: Circulation Elements & Objects, NE Plan 18sw: Circulation Elements & Objects, SW Plan 18se: Circulation Elements & Objects, SE A series of companion plans, presented in Chapter II, also relate to the landscape characterdefining features of this campus landscape. The plans presented previously should also be referenced in relation to overall campus character definition and specific aspects of landscape character including land uses, visual spaces and views, topography, vegetation, and circulation, as well as other aspects. The period plan and listing of character-defining features for that time were developed for the CLR and serve as a foundation for three landscape guidance documents: Landscape Preservation Plan (LPP); the Landscape Integration Plan (LIP); and the Landscape Management Plan (LMP). Likewise, CLR fieldwork of 2007 updated the original 2004 STE West Campus Cultural Landscape Assessment efforts. For the LPMP, the 2007 record of the existing conditions inventory of landscape character-defining features is updated to. The five landscape units remain logical and useful and are carried forward as defined in the CLR. The inventory of landscape character-defining features is organized by these outdoor use spaces that comprise the historic campus. The and plan and chart updates have been carried out through further study of historic documents and fieldwork to review in-situ landscape features. For the plan, document study has enriched the details of the trees, shrubs, fountains, gardens, walks, and drives in terms of garnering more specific information that aids in developing treatment and management guidance. For, the CLR plans and charts were scrutinized on site and each characterdefining feature was reviewed and photographed. This updating effort provides documentation of the landscape character and character-defining features for both circa and today for the campus landscape prior to significant changes. The location of site photographs included at the end of this chapter and Chapter IV are depicted in Appendix B: Photo Key Map. III.2

3 This and character-defining features update uses detailed narrative and tables to indicate the condition of each feature. The analysis of landscape integrity, change, and continuity over time was provided in the CLR and should be referenced in that document. Landscape continuity and subsequent modification are documented here for all landscape units with the target and dates. Tables of the character-defining features by type and coding are included for all units. There are modern elements within the campus today, added after the 1940s, that are not character-defining features. These recent additions may be labeled as altered or degraded character-defining features, changed after the historic period, or not labeled at all. Descriptions of extant features dating to the end of the period of significance are offered in this section, and additional detail is provided for specific, key features. The tables identify individual features by landscape unit and categorize their status in and. For reference, identification numbers from the CLR are used again for each feature under the CDF column and in the accompanying images. Character-defining features are also indicated on the series of plans. Two columns present the and status of each feature at the end of the period of historic significance and today. In this status annotation the words used in preservation treatment are specifically avoided. These status codes, listed below, are used in the tables to describe each landscape feature: Present Feature present in this period, but construction is may not be documented Retained Remains from previous period, also used to describe features such as woodlands that evolve but are retained Modified Altered from its previous state or a deliberate modification Expanded Expansion of landscape design concept or physical form of feature Degraded Feature in a state of degradation or disrepair Removed Feature is removed at a point in time after Unknown State of feature not known for this period, rare gap in documentation The objective of these tables is to assemble and compare data from the end of the period of significance, circa, to the present in a clear, concise format. The presentation of this synthesis generates an understanding that assists in formulating of landscape treatment guidance in the following chapter. As such, the tables serve as a reference the presentation of the 2016 plan that guides preservation and in the development of guidance in the three volume document set that addresses construction integration, rehabilitation, management, and continued maintenance of the cultural landscape. Viewed together as a group these tables also present the list for the inventory and maintenance forms and maps show specific feature locations based on these tables. The following narrative summarizes detailed information for each character-defining feature of the landscape. III.3

4 B. CAMPUS OVERALL CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES B1. Land Uses Land Uses All Landscape maintenance activity L1 Retained Modified All Local labor force drawn from surrounding communities L2 Retained Removed All Therapeutic and educational uses of the landscape L3 Retained Modified The land uses of the past retain an imprint on the landscape today. Intensive hospital use with a therapeutic role for the landscape was prevalent for about 120 years. The active therapeutic, recreational, and service uses of the West Campus landscape as a hospital ground ceased in the 1980s. The land uses that characterize the landscape of St. Elizabeths West Campus today relate more to the rehabilitation of the campus and its conversion to new uses than to its historical function. The overall campus remains largely vacant with the exception of security personnel and the periodic presence of government contractors and work crews. With the recent establishment of administrative field offices for the campus rehabilitation, the landscape of the plateau is once again filled with activity. Re-established tree maintenance and turf mowing is shifting the campus landscape toward its former characteristics even though removals of several individual historic trees and most of the shrub layer diminishes the integrity of the campus. Recent work to secure the campus includes repairing dilapidated boundaries with chain link fencing. While this work evokes the condition of a historically enclosed and secure campus, the repair work is of a temporary nature and is intended as a partial replacement that will be augmented with a permanent perimeter security fence and other security measures during future development. The repaired fencing does not conform to the boundaries of the campus and will be corrected when it is replaced. B2. Natural Systems & Features Natural systems and processes often direct the development and form of a landscape. At St. Elizabeths West Campus, the Anacostia River is the primary factor and cause of landform development. The West Campus is characterized by the prominent terrace overlooking the Anacostia River. The soils of the bluff include Pliocene and Pleistocene river terrace deposits of gravel, sand and loam. 1 Prior to late 19 th -century modifications to the river channel, the slopes of the bluff formed part of the riverbank of the Anacostia. Natural Systems & Features All Prehistoric Anacostia and Potomac River dynamics shape campus landforms of high ground, slopes and riverfront N1 Retained Modified III.4

5 The historical development of the west bank of the Potomac River during the colonial period left the St. Elizabeths West Campus vicinity as a largely rural zone within the District of Columbia. This pattern of land use persisted into the 19 th century when a large, available, and rural location was sought for the first national mental health institution. The physical separation and visual connection between the campus site and the urban core of the capital led to the bluff s selection. Similarly, the selection for locating the capital was related to the defensible, surrounding topographic bowl of which St. Elizabeths West Campus is now a part. The evolution and character of the riverbank was influential in the siting and layout of the historic landscape. Today successive human interventions yield a modified Anacostia and Potomac riverfront affecting the plateau, slopes, and riverfront. B3. Spatial Organization & Land Patterns Spatial Organization & Land Patterns All Campus boundary and total acreage O1 Retained Modified The spatial organization of the West Campus corresponds strongly to topography and sequence of building construction, as outlined in the delineation of the five landscape units. The principal areas of designed landscape are arrayed atop the plateau and framed by 19 th and early 20 th century buildings and circulation patterns in Units 1 and 2. The three-dimensional organization and land patterns of the plateau are shaped principally by the system of drives and adjacent building masses (see Figures III.1, III.2, and III.3). B4. Views & Visual Relationships Views within the West Campus are often constrained by surrounding building mass. Historical and contemporary spatial zones constitute distinct visual spaces (see Plans 10 and 15 and Figures III.e, III.3, III.4 and III.5). Primary views are gained from the overlook in Unit 1 north toward the city core and from the public street frontage. Secondary views look out from the plateau across the sloping landscape. B5. Vegetation Vegetation UNITS LANDSCAPE CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES CDF ALL Collection of individual deciduous, evergreen and T1 Retained Degraded flowering trees over mown lawn The collection of shade, evergreen and flowering trees in Unit 1, Unit 2, and the Cemetery are unique to this campus. Over several decades, from 1851 to the 1930s, the collection of trees was planted, stewarded, and labeled. In addition, important native trees, often oak (Quercus species), grew on woodland slopes. This overall summary of the west campus tree collection addresses the inventory of trees first recorded in 2004, checked in 2007 and field checked again in. For III.5

6 the tree collection, Heritage Landscapes reviewed historic ground level photographs, aerial planametric and oblique photographs, and the 1947 survey which includes tree positions, sizes, and species for a small number of trees. These data combined with knowledge of extant trees today allowed for a refined understanding of the collection of trees circa. Tree counts are one method for gaining an understanding of continuity and change. The charts below define the tree collection documented by with an overall count of The majority of these trees, or 90% grew within Units 1, 2, and 3, on the upper plateau and the northern campus edge. Only 10%, of the individual trees were documented in Units 4 and 5. Instead, high-quality woodlands covered much of these units. Together this impressive collection of trees and deciduous flowering shrubs defined a strong scenic quality for the therapeutic landscape. The historic tree collection was composed of a wide range of deciduous, evergreen, and flowering trees. While small numbers of exotic and uncommon species dotted the campus, nearly half of all trees represented five different genera. The dominant genus found in the St. Elizabeths West Campus landscape was oak (Quercus). Oak trees defined 16% of the overall tree collection. The second most dominant genus was maple (Acer), which included 10% of the collection. Magnolia (Magnolia), holly (Ilex), and elm (Ulmus) were also prominent throughout the landscape. Together these five genera defined 41% of the tree collection. The following chart summarizes the historic tree distributions overall: Tree Distribution by Unit Unit 1 Unit 2 Unit 3 Unit 4 Unit 5 Total Number of Trees % of Trees 48% 25% 17% 6% 4% 100% While the collection is diverse, the five dominant genera in represent 41% of the tree species: Dominant Genera (41% listed, 59% diverse genera) Quercus /Oak Acer /Maple Magnolia /Magnolia Ilex /Holly Ulmus /Elm Subtotal Number of Trees % of Trees (based on 1120 count) 16% 10% 6% 5% 5% 41% The tree collection also contained a large number of rarer tree species that made the campus unique in the past as well as today. Less common species included exotic species as well as North American species that are not native to the ecosystems of the site in the District of Columbia. Examples of horticultural species in the collection include Baumann horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum baumannii ), silktree (Albizia julibrissin), cutleaf European beech (Fagus sylvatica Asplenifolia ), Goldenraintree (Koelreuteria paniculata), English laurel (Prunus laurocerasus), and Princesstree (Paulownia tomentosa). A large collection of conifers with one or a few specimens of each contributes to the diversity of elements that include Blue Atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica), deodar cedar (Cedrus deodara), Japanese falsecypress (Chamaecyparis pisifera), and Burford Chinese holly (Ilex cornuta Burfordii ). A number of these original plantings remain today. III.6

7 Examples of planted trees that are not part of the native ecosystems of the campus include Fraser fir (Abies fraseri), paper birch (Betula papyrifera), Carolina cherry laurel (Prunus caroliniana), and bald cypress (Taxodium distichum). Many of these historic trees remain in the landscape today. The campus displays a combination of exotic and native species of the same genus. This planting approach allows for comparisons of similar kinds across the campus. Examples include collections of beech (Betula) holly (Ilex), magnolia (Magnolia), cherry (Prunus), and oak (Quercus), among others. Another planting approach is the use of less common native trees in an ornamental setting such as the presence of individual persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) trees on the plateau. Today, the trees that defined the historic tree collection can be categorized as remaining or missing with a small percentage of replaced. Heritage Landscapes studied historic-period documentation and compared it against existing field conditions to determine the current status of each of the historic trees. The status of this historic collection is divided nearly in half with 46% remaining in the landscape today, 53% missing and 1%, replaced over time. Trees identified as replaced were replaced with regard to location. For most of these trees, the original species is unknown. As a result, it remains unclear if they were replaced-in-kind. By categorizing the status of the tree collection, a better understanding of the level of continuity and change is facilitated. To further explore the level of continuity and change that has occurred within the tree collection, the distribution of remaining, missing, and replaced trees has been defined for each of the five landscape units. Of the remaining trees, 79% are located in Units 1, 2, and 3, with the majority of these remaining trees found within the upper plateau. Only 21% of these remaining trees are growing in Units 4 and 5. This pattern is repeated with the missing trees. Of the documented missing trees, 99% are located in Units 1, 2, and 3. The other few missing trees are in Unit 4 with no documented missing trees in Unit 5. Unit 1 has the highest percentage of the missing trees with 53%. Only 11 trees were identified as replaced and are found within the upper plateau, with 9 in Unit 1 and 2 in Unit 2. This break-out of tree distribution by units reveals that while the upper plateau retains the highest percentage of historic trees, these areas also reflect the highest degree of missing trees. This summary indicates that the once therapeutic landscape setting has been altered over time. The following charts provide overall details of the status and distribution of this collection. The first chart indicates overall status of retained and missing trees: Remaining Missing Replaced Total Trees % of Trees 46% 53% 1% 100% Historic Shrubs (2004) % of Shrubs 31% 69% 0% 100% The following chart enumerates the trees retained in although about 10% are in decline; III.7

8 Remaining Tree Distribution by Unit Unit 1 Unit 2 Unit 3 Unit 4 Unit 5 Total Trees % of Trees 41% 22% 16% 11% 10% 100% This chart addresses the balance of the trees missing in by unit; Missing Tree Distribution by Unit Unit 1 Unit 2 Unit 3 Unit 4 Unit 5 Total Trees % of Trees 53% 28% 18% 1% 0% 100% This summary chart compares trees and shrubs form and ;, Summary Tree & Shrub Collection Trees & Shrubs Trees & Shrubs Historic N/A 412 Historic Missing 637* N/A Trees & Shrubs Total *Includes 11 historic trees replaced between and In, the St. Elizabeths West Campus landscape included an impressive collection of trees. Today, patterns of both continuity and change are evident throughout the collection. The remaining historic-period trees continue to convey the former therapeutic, ornamental landscape character and quality. Understanding the level of trees that are remaining, missing, and replaced provides a strong foundation to protect and enhance the tree collection throughout the campus landscape into the future. B6. Circulation The composition and design of campus circulation features reflect the therapeutic ideals of St. Elizabeths, and contribute to the campus landscape experience. The build-out of these contributing elements took place over several decades, later influenced by additions and alterations of surface materials. This overall summary of the West Campus system of circulation elements is informed by the inventory of features first recorded in 2007 and field checked again in. To gain insight Heritage Landscapes reviewed the 1947 survey, ground level photographs and aerial planametric and oblique photographs. Using this data, combined with the observance of extant features today, enables the full capture of circulation elements listed herein. The calculation of circulation elements is one method for gaining an understanding of continuity and change. In the overall composition included over 815,000 square feet (sf) of paving and over 39,000 lineal feet (lf) of curbing. Ninety-one percent of paving was within Units 1, 2, and 4, with over 17 acres of circulation elements, including roads, drop offs, and walks found within the upper plateau and the northern campus edge. Conversely, the remaining eleven III.8

9 percent of paving present in was in Units 3 and 5, landscapes then defined by service, agriculture and wooded slopes. The historic circulation system was composed of a range of materials including exposed aggregate concrete, a cinder, both red and yellow brick pavers, gravel, and dirt. Exposed aggregate concrete was the dominant material for circulation elements found on the St. Elizabeths West Campus landscape, defining nearly 59% of the overall circulation system present along both walks and campus drives. Also prevalent was a cinder paving for secondary drives and red brick paver walks. Additional circulation materials of dirt and gravel were also present in outlying areas and service yards in smaller applications. In, the historic composition of the St. Elizabeths West Campus circulation system retained portions of its early design and alignment, while exhibiting materials and later additions not contributing to its original character. Heritage Landscapes studied historic-period documentation and compared it against existing field conditions to determine the current level of change and continuity of the circulation system. The status was representative of evolution in the campus circulation pattern. Functional additions of parking, enlarged drop-off areas, and a transition of materials over time diminished the graceful sweeping lines of drives and encroached on the character-defining views of buildings and landscape. To further explore the level of continuity and change of the campus circulation system, the distribution of materials is compared below across the five landscape units. Circulation Summary Comparison Paving Total Net Increase/ Decrease Roads 551, ,220 87,730 Drop-Offs 86, ,890 19,200 Walks 177, ,645 17,480 Parking 13, , ,155 Total square feet 828,560 1,187, ,565 Total Acres Curbs linear feet 39,210 47,314 8,104 The historic circulation system of St. Elizabeths West Campus landscape includes drives, walks, drop-off loops, and curbs placed on the plateau and surrounding hillside. Patterns of both continuity and change are evident throughout the campus. The alignment of roads and walks continue to convey the former therapeutic, ornamental landscape character and quality, however the additions of surface parking and increase in road widths and material changes alter the experience. By understanding the additions and later altered composition of circulation elements, decisions can be made to renew the character of campus circulation elements, while making provisions for contemporary additions. III.9

10 C. UNIT 1: THERAPEUTIC, ORNAMENTAL LANDSCAPE & OVERLOOK AROUND CENTER BUILDING & MAIN GATE This 42-acre area encompasses the initial construction and development of the original 19 th - century St. Elizabeths landscape. The unit includes historically significant spatial and visual areas to include the north and south Center Building landscapes and Golden Raintree Drive, the curving overlook drive on the point that affords panoramic views to the north over the city and to the north and west over the confluence of the Anacostia and Potomac Rivers. The Unit 1 landscape is defined by the remaining mid-nineteenth century circulation system of pleasure walks and drives and a group of extant early plantings. C1. Spatial Organization & Land Patterns Spatial Organization & Land Patterns All Campus boundary and total acreage O1 Retained Modified 1 Unit 1: Therapeutic, Ornamental Landscape and Overlook around Center Building and Main Gate O2 Modified Modified 1 Landscape north of Center Building: Lawn with trees shaped by the system of drives and framed by building mass 1 Landscape south of Center Building: Lawn with trees shaped by the system of drives and framed by building mass O3 Present Retained O4 Present Retained 1 Athletic Field Landscape O5 Present Retained 1 East Allison Landscape: lawn with trees and summerhouses O6 Present Modified 1, 3 Unit 3: Agricultural Landscape of Greenhouses, Fields and North Slope O9 Retained Degraded 1, 3 Point Landscape: Open lawn with individual trees O10 Retained Retained Discrete spatial zones within Unit 1 include the component landscapes north and south of the Center Building; the site of the former West Lodge Building southwest of the Center Building; the Athletic Field landscape; the north overlook Point landscape; and the landscape between the Allison Complex and the brick perimeter wall. Spatial zones are directly related to viewsheds and visual relationships in Unit 1. C2. Views & Visual Relationships Views & Visual Relationships 1, 2, 3 Views of walls and West Campus gates along Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue V1 Retained Retained 1 Expansive vista north to the Monumental Core City and beyond V2 Retained Retained III.10

11 1 Episodic views and vistas from high ground of Unit 1 to rivers and Monumental Core V3 Retained Modified 1 Slot views to Monumental Core from Cedar Drive V4 Retained Retained 1 Visual zone north of Center Building: Lawn with trees shaped by the system of drives and framed by building mass V5 Retained Degraded 1 Visual zone south of Center Building: Lawn with trees V6 Retained Degraded shaped by the system of drives and framed by building mass 1 Athletic Field visual zone V7 Retained Retained 1, 2 East Allison visual zone: lawn with trees and V8 Retained Modified summerhouses 1, 3 Views over Anacostia and Potomac confluence to northwest V12 Retained Retained 1, 3, 5 Perception of river access V13 Retained Retained 1, 3 Visual zone of Point Landscape with trees, lawn, and views across agricultural fields and orchards V14 Retained Modified Spatial relationships between vegetation, topography, and buildings and structures greatly influence views and visual relationships. In Units 1 and 2, open lawn areas with an arboretumlike tree collection create centralized green spaces with a perimeter of historic buildings and structures. Near the edges of the green spaces, views of turf and trees are frequently framed and defined by clusters of buildings. Outside the core ring of buildings, views open from the plateau and offer broad panoramic vistas to the north and west. In particular, Golden Raintree Drive, the winding overlook drive that divides Units 1 and 3, provides stunning northern views over the Anacostia and Potomac Rivers and the Monumental Core of the capital (see Figure III.3). In between building mass and vegetation, the high ground of Units 1 and 2 also provides episodic views out to the north and west. The western side of J and K Buildings present a smaller vista across the river. Cedar Drive between Gate No. 1 and Golden Raintree Drive also offers slot views to the north over the Point (see Figure III.6). Together the turf, trees, topography, and buildings create distinct views, primarily from within the plateau out across the sloping landscape and toward the city and rivers. C3. Topography & Drainage Topography & Drainage 1, 2 Prehistoric Anacostia riverbank plateau D1 Retained Retained The distinctive topography at St. Elizabeths has been shaped by both natural processes and human manipulation. The overall shape of the upland plateau (Units 1 and 2) and adjacent slopes is a result of natural fluvial geomorphology associated with the Chesapeake Bay watershed. However, many areas exhibit disturbed soils and altered topography principally due to construction activities. The designed landscape and buildings are sited on a plateau III.11

12 overlooking the confluence of the Anacostia and Potomac Rivers at an elevation of 150 to 170 feet above sea level. The plateau is relatively level and makes up the eastern half of the West Campus. The topography in this area was altered slightly for the construction of buildings and associated tunnels, walks, circulation systems, and a pond that was once south of the Center Building. The landscape today continues to reflect the historic combination of natural processes and deliberate manipulation. C4. Vegetation Vegetation 1, 2 Trees in an arboretum style planting over turf T1 Retained Degraded 1 Holly trees east of Staff Residence No. 3 and west of Gatehouse No. 1 T2 Retained Degraded 1, 3 Specimen tree plantings north and northeast of Center Building (Southern magnolia, American holly, cedar, beech, maple, American elm, English elm, pine, and gingko). 1 Specimen tree plantings at south/southeast lawn of Center Building (Southern Magnolia, American Holly, Willow Oak, Silver Maple, Bald Cypress. Pine and Gingko no longer remain) 1 Grove of magnolia trees southwest of rear entry to Center Building 1 Shade trees near location of former West Lodge (White oak. Willow oak no longer remains) T3 Retained Retained T4 Retained Degraded T5 Retained Degraded T6 Retained Degraded 1 Shagbark hickory west of Detached Dining Hall and Kitchen T7 Retained Retained 1 Perimeter willow oaks north of Gate No.2, East of Allison Building 1 Lawn plantings east/southeast of Allison Complex (Southern Magnolia, Horse Chestnut, Linden, Hickory, Willow Oak, and Ash) 1 Shade trees at Promontory lookout (Willow oak, pin oak, honey locust) 1 Allée along drive from Gatehouse No. 1 to East Willow Building 1 White oak allée from Gatehouse No. 1 to East Willow Building T8 Retained Degraded T9 Retained Degraded T10 Retained Degraded T11 Retained Removed T12 Retained Degraded 1 Evergreen and deciduous shrubs in Unit 1: 11 groupings (a-k) T13 Retained Degraded/ Removed 1 Shrubs north of Pine Building toward Loop Road T14 Retained Removed 1 Formal Garden and plantings at Southern entrance to Center Building T15 Retained Degraded Vegetation - continued III.12

13 1 Circular flower beds and planters at the north entrance to Center Building, south of Staff Residence No. 1 in the center of the looping drive; east of Staff Residence No. 2; and north of Birch St., south of Center Building 1 Oak trees in courtyard framed by Dining Hall, Atkins and Relief T30 Present Removed T32 Retained Retained Vegetation including groups of plants, individual plants, agricultural fields, planting beds, formal and informal groves, woodland, meadow, and turf, is a historically significant character-defining element of the landscape at St. Elizabeths West Campus. For the plateau Units 1 and 2, the most distinctive vegetative feature is the deciduous, evergreen and ornamental tree collection planted in an arboretum style that offers scenic beauty, shade and horticultural education. An impressive 144 trees, most planted at the outset of the hospital s development and some pre-dating it, remain on the campus today. The landscape and the planted tree collection attest to the historic, therapeutic use of the landscape at Kirkbride-influenced mental hospitals as an important part of patient treatment. Overall, the collection of trees is largely healthy, although the decline of old trees is noted throughout the core campus area. Since 2007, successful arboriculture has improved the form and health of trees that were identified in the CLR as requiring care. In, Unit 1 included 535 trees. This collection was interspersed over mown turf, creating arboretum-like plantings around the hospital facilities. While a range of deciduous, evergreen, and flowering trees were found in Unit 1, five species were dominant throughout the area. Maple trees comprised 11% of the Unit 1 collection with oak trees defining another 10%. Magnolia, holly, and elm trees were also widely used. Together, these five species defined 37% of the Unit 1 trees. This pattern of dominant species corresponds to the five dominant species used campus-wide. Unit 1 and the other section of the plateau, Unit 2, also contain the majority of the less common species found on the West Campus. In, Unit 1 contains 167 deciduous trees, 73 broadleaf evergreen trees, 31 coniferous evergreen trees, 23 flowering or ornamental trees, 22 deciduous shrubs, 9 evergreen shrubs, and 58 stumps. The 383 trees in this unit are some 40% of the 950 surveyed trees and stumps on campus today. During the period of significance, 535 trees were located in Unit 1. Today, Unit 1 contains 152 fewer trees than it did historically. Of the 383 trees in Unit 1 today, 213 remain from the historic period, 313 are missing, and 9 have been replaced in their original location. This count indicates that 59% of the historic-period trees are missing today. Comparing the remaining and replaced historic trees against the current tree count indicates that 159 trees have been added in non-historic locations since the 1930s. Through this comparison, the level of continuity and change that has occurred within the Unit 1 tree collection is revealed. The following charts summarize the historic dominant genera and status of the Unit 1 tree collection: III.13

14 Dominant Genera, - Unit 1 (37% listed, 63% diverse genera) Acer Quercus Magnolia Ilex Ulmus /Maple /Oak /Magnolia /Holly /Elm Total Number of Trees % of Trees (based on 535) 11% 10% 7% 5% 3% 37% - Unit 1 Remaining Missing Replaced Total Number of Trees % of Trees 40% 59% 2% 100% Within the Unit 1 tree collection, a number of historic groupings remain intact. A cluster of five magnolia trees grows within a contained lawn space southwest of the Center Building southern entry, providing a pleasant shaded canopy over the open turf (see Figure III.7). A historic shagbark hickory (Carya ovata) is located west of the Detached Dining Hall and Kitchen. Here three magnolia trees also remain from the historic period. While the exact composition of this planting has changed over time, it continues to reflect the historic scenic quality (see Figure III.8). The landscape to the east and southeast of the Allison Complex contains a number of specimen plantings today that historically were part of a denser cluster of trees (see Figure III.e). Plantings at the Point lookout include a number of mature shade trees that enhance the scenic character of the overlook (see Figure III.9). The historic white oak (Quercus alba) allée continues to extend from Gatehouse No. 1 to the East Willow Building. A few of the individual trees within the feature have been removed over time. However, the overall form and character of the allée remains evident in the landscape today (see Figure III.10). Another distinct historic planting is the two oak trees that grow within the courtyard framed by the Dining Hall, Atkins and Relief Buildings. These two trees continue to define the character of the partially enclosed courtyard (see Figure III.11). These six plant groupings are a few examples of extant historic plantings found throughout Unit 1. Together, these groupings continue to convey the historic character of the Unit 1 landscape. Field updates in indicate that the tree collection is intact. The complete listing of trees is included as Appendix A. Discrepancies in existing tree data may be the result of ongoing arboricultural work that has removed some standing dead and severely declining trees and some of the stumps noted in Trunk diameters and canopy sizes have continued to grow gradually over time. Flowering shrubs, planted in groups and singly, were a component of the late 1930s and 1940s landscape. The shrubs in Unit 1 (CDF T13) are divided into eleven areas that existed on the campus in. These groupings are: T13a Shrubs along brick walks between Allison and Relief T13b Shrubs north of Relief and Allison, including common flowering quince (Chaenomeles speciosa) and Thunberg spirea (Spirea thunbergii) T13c Shrubs east and southeast of Allison D T13d Shrubs northwest of Hitchcock III.14

15 T13e Shrubs surrounded by Home, Detached Dining, and Hagan, including chastetree (Vitex agnus-castus), common boxwood (Buxus sempervirens), Anglojap yew (Taxus x media), and meadowsweet (Spiraea alba) T13f Shrubs at the east intersection of Hemlock Street and Redwood Drive T13g Shrubs in the garden courtyard east of southern entry to Center Building, including Japanese camellia (Camellia japonica) and variegated English holly (Ilex aquifolium variegata ) T13h Shrubs north of the north entry to the Center Building, including American boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) T13i Shrubs north of Garfield, including rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus) T13j Shrubs south of Garfield T13k Hedgerow southwest of Staff Residence No. 1 The remnant shrubs present during the 2004 field work were in generally poor condition with small trees seeded within the shrub mass or cluster. In addition, invasive vines were also overgrowing the shrubs. The 2004 inventory included Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus), common flowering quince (Chaenomeles speciosa), lilac (Syringa vulgaris) and probably 19 th century French hybrids like Syringa x monge, Syringa x Madame Lemoine, and chastetree (Vitex agnus-castus). Today in Unit 1, a cluster of American boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) at T13h and two groups of Thunberg spirea (Spirea thunbergii) or Bridal Wreath spirea (Spirea x vanhouttei) at T13b remain (See Figures III.4 and III.12)). The balance of the overgrown and declining shrub masses and the invasive trees growing within them have been removed from the campus. Historically, circular flower beds were scattered throughout Unit 1, particularly concentrated near the north entry to the Center Building. The beds varied in size from 10 to 25 feet in diameter. None remain from the period of significance. Remnants of one formal garden courtyard are visible in with fence and fountain remains in degraded state at the southern entry to the Center Building. Vegetation in the Unit 1 landscape displays both continuity and change from the historic period with regard to individual plantings and intended effect. The 383 trees that are found within Unit 1 today include both historic and more recent plantings. A total of 213 historic trees remain in the landscape. Overall, the Unit 1 plantings continue to convey the broader character of the historic-period plantings. In specific locations, the historic effect of the plantings has been altered through the loss of historic trees. For instance, the lawn area east and southeast of the Allison Complex is missing a number of historic plantings. As a result, this area has a more open character than it did historically. By understanding the current status and character of the Unit 1 tree collection, a strong foundation is created to guide future efforts to enhance and improve the historic landscape. III.15

16 C5. Circulation Circulation 1, 2 Graceful and sweeping pedestrian circulation pattern C1 Retained Modified 1 Herringbone brick walk between Allison D and Relief and C2 Retained Degraded around the base of Relief and Allison Buildings 1 Herringbone brick walk west of Allison A C3 Retained Degraded 1 Herringbone brick walkway at base of Center, Holly, C4 Retained Degraded Linden, and Detached Nurses 1 Herringbone brick patio between Holly and Detached C5 Retained Degraded Nurses 1 Concrete curvilinear walk parallel to Cedar Dr C6 Retained Retained 1 Concrete walkway at south lawn of Center Building C7 Present Retained 1 Aggregate paved walkway at former West Lodge entrance C8 Retained Retained 1, 2 Graceful and sweeping vehicular circulation pattern C11 Retained Degraded 1, 2 Narrow radii historic drop-off loops at building entrances C12 Modified Degraded 1, 2 Cobble gutters C13 Unknown Removed 1, 2, 4 Parking areas along buildings C14 Modified Expanded 1,3 Golden Raintree Drive layout (Paved loop road from main C15 Retained Modified loop road to promontory) 1,3 Cedar Drive and Sweetgum Lane layout (Paved main loop C16 Retained Modified road at upper plateau/portion of lowlands) 1, 3 Paved Road to Greenhouse from main loop road C26 Retained Modified Circulation patterns and materials contribute to the character of the West Campus of St. Elizabeths. This is particularly significant for Units 1 and 2, where the majority of the early road systems were implemented. Roads, drives, trails, walks, paths, parking lots, and loading areas form a network of collectively and individually significant elements. Gracefully sweeping curvilinear circulation patterns are suggestive of design influences of Andrew Jackson Downing ( ) applying the Beautiful, Picturesque, and Gardenesque design styles. These distinct patterns have defined the St. Elizabeths landscape from the earliest days. Materials, alignment, width, surface and edge treatment, and grading all contribute to circulation feature character. Road and walk materials at St. Elizabeths have changed over time, while they retain their characteristic curvilinear alignments (see Figure III.13). The chart below compares Unit 1 circulation features present in, and : Unit 1 Circulation Total Total Net + Change Roads 201, ,591 3,006 Drop-Offs 28,773 42,107 13,334 Walks 100,645 99,563-1,082 Parking 0 89,491 89,491 Curb lf 19,780 21,406 1,626 III.16

17 Drives within Unit 1 are surfaced with either exposed aggregate concrete or asphalt. (see Figures III.14, III.15, III.16, and III.14). Asphalt drives were constructed over former gravel drives and as functional surfaces over failing exposed aggregate concrete. It is visually apparent in several areas that asphalt paving is on top of concrete, as a result of repair and/or resurfacing work (see Figure III.17). Drive conditions in the Unit 1 are: Cedar Drive is constructed of exposed aggregate concrete, embedded with stone ranging from 3/8-inch to 1-inch diameter. The exposed aggregate construction varies along the drive from modestly to heavily embedded. Hemlock Street is asphalt paving and appears to be a topcoat layer over a concrete subsurface with integral concrete curb and gutter. Golden Raintree Drive is an asphalt drive believed to have been constructed atop the former cinder paving. Concrete curbing is buried at either side of the drive along this length. Redwood Drive is an asphalt drive constructed over or replacing the historic exposed aggregate concrete drive, with concrete curbing still visible to either side. Birch Street is surfaced with exposed aggregate concrete on its western terminus, intersecting with asphalt paving at Cedar Drive. Birch Street continues southeast behind Building 40 where the present-day asphalt is placed over the historic red-brick paving in this area. After crossing Redwood Drive, Birch Street continues eastward where its asphalt paving covers over historic concrete and gravel at its eastern terminus. Drives paved with the same surface material generally exhibit similar construction. Drives constructed of exposed aggregate concrete have a dominant center joint with perpendicular joints at regular intervals, typically 30 feet, along the length (see Figure III.3). The drive surfaces are crowned for positive surface drainage to either side. Asphalt drives are also constructed with a center crown to provide positive drainage to either side. Nearly all drives have curbing at both sides. One exception to this is Golden Raintree Drive, which has some remnant concrete curbing partially buried along its edge. Historic drop-offs and loops located adjacent to both prominent and service entries to buildings along Unit 1 roads are still present, although many have been expanded over time, now functioning as parking areas. Stand-alone parking areas in Unit 1 are paved in either asphalt or concrete with asphalt being the more commonly used material. One parking area is adjacent to the Detached Dining Hall and appears to have been constructed in gravel. Parking areas today are out of character with the condition, when parking was largely confined to on-street parking Curbing establishes the edge and controls drainage along both sides of travel areas for all of the concrete and asphalt drives in Unit 1, and is generally 6 inches of exposed top and face unless new paving topcoats have reduced the curb height to between 3 and 5 inches (see Figures III.18, III.19, and III.20). Curbing is constructed using concrete and varies in several ways: Integral concrete curb and gutter combination 6-inch exposed concrete face with a 6- inch concrete top (see Figure III.17). The width of the apron varies slightly, generally 16 to 18 inches across. III.17

18 Contiguous concrete curb and drive surface Curb is rolled up along the edge of the exposed aggregate concrete drive without an expansion joint or score line (see Figure III.18). The curb face is slightly angled back and has a radial top with straight edge along the lawn side. This condition is found at the oldest portions of the drive. Concrete curbs constructed independent of gutter Found along asphalt drives (see Figure III.20). In many instances, these curbs are 6 inches wide and have approximately 3 inches of exposed vertical face. Concrete curbing found along a section of Cedar Drive is constructed with a laid-back portion that angles toward the adjacent lawn area. This section of drive is paved with asphalt. Granite curbing is used in limited applications, along Birch Street, flanking the entrance to the service area behind Building 40. Walks and areas of pedestrian pavements in Unit 1 are constructed with both concrete and brick. While historically red brick paving was the prevalent material for walks, today concrete defines a greater portion of walk surfaces. Paved areas near or adjacent to the structures in this unit, such as the Center Building and Allison complex, are typically constructed of brick (see Figures III.21, III.22, and III.23). Walkways further away from these structures continue to be constructed of concrete with some brick evident (see Figures III.24 and III.25). The various types of pavement found in Unit 1 are: Walks directly adjacent to and near the Center Building and Allison complex are constructed of brick in a herringbone pattern. The pavement area varies in width but is typically at least 6 feet wide. Several sections of the pavement are constructed with a brownstone edge set along the walk edge, away from the building. Brick edging is used in combination with brownstone edging on the south side of the Center Building. Walks surrounding the Center Building but not directly adjacent are constructed in brick laid in a herringbone pattern (see Figures III.21 and III.22). Pedestrian areas to the easterly portion of the site are generally paved and wide enough to accommodate groups of people. These areas are also constructed in brick arranged in a herringbone pattern (see Figure III.23). North of the Old Storeroom at the Center Building is an area of brick pavement laid in a basketweave pattern. This pattern is limited in use and is not representative of the broader Unit 1 landscape. North of the Center Building, within the landscape along Cedar Street, the walk is constructed in concrete. The concrete is surfaced with small exposed aggregate (see Figure III.24). Walkways that run across the south lawn of the Center Building, along Hemlock Street and Redwood Drive, are constructed in concrete (see Figure III.25). They are situated within the lawn, as well as alongside the drive curb (see Figure III.13). Universally accessible walks in this area have been added over time and are often constructed of wood to accommodate the change in grade. Where these walks meet the ground, concrete is used to connect them with the overall walk system. III.18

19 C6. Landscape Structures Landscape Structures 1 Domed metal arbor adjacent to Staff Residence No. 2 S1 Present Degraded 1 Gazebo, East of Allison C, (herringbone brick paving at base) S2 Present Degraded 1 Gazebo, South of Home and Relief Buildings S3 Present Degraded 1 Decorative iron fence at south side of Center Building at eastern garden courtyard S4 Present Degraded 1 Iron pipe railing East of Bakery/General Kitchen, along path from Center Building S5 Unknown Degraded 1 Iron railing at southern entrance to Center Building S6 Unknown Retained 1 Brick foundation fragment at site of West Lodge S7 Present Modified 1 Concrete Retaining Wall at site of former West Lodge S8 Retained Retained 1 Concrete stairway at loading dock in vicinity of West Lodge S9 Present Degraded site 1 Brick steps at western lawn of Center Building S10 Retained Retained 1, 3 Brick wall at perimeter of campus from Greenhouse Complex S11 Retained Degraded to area of Gatehouse No. 2 1 Tennis Lawn Area, northeast of Center Building S12 Present Degraded 1 Iron bollard at junction of former carriage trail and S13 Retained Removed turnaround at northern Center Building entrance 1, 2 Historic iron drainage grates/ catch basins: single and paired S14 Present Degraded 1 Covered seating area over brick paving northeast of Allison S25 Present Removed 1, 2 System of historic metal handrails at stairways and rails along pedestrian walks S26 Retained Degraded Landscape structures complement historic buildings and comprise unique features within the West Campus cultural landscape. The stone and brick perimeter wall along Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue is an excellent example of these distinctive elements. Other walls, fences, steps, arbors, summerhouses, and the ruins of farm buildings form the collection of landscape structures at the St. Elizabeths West Campus. Other structures have been lost over time including an iron bollard at the junction of the former carriage trail and a turnaround at the northern Center Building entrance. Three modest landscape buildings remain on the West Campus, including two small summerhouses and a wire-frame arbor in Unit 1. Two 30-foot wide cross-shaped summerhouses are located in the lawn near Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue in the southeast corner of Unit 1 (see Figure III.26). These roofed, open wooden structures are the remaining built elements that demonstrate hospital resident use of the outdoors for enjoyment. A domed metal arbor adjacent to Staff Residence No. 2 also provides evidence of an era when it was used as a vine-covered Victorian summerhouse (see Figure III.27). An additional covered seating area over brick paving northeast of the Allison complex and between Gates 1 and 2 has been removed since the circa 1940 period. III.19