Photo by Explore Union County
Friends of Black Brook Park U.C.
Submitted by founding member Dorothea Krihak
Friends of Black Brook Park and its mission statement was founded in 2001 to protect the natural setting of Black Brook Park and to ensure the respectful use of it, by way of including continuing service to project its’ history also, for the understanding of the park users and “friends.” If you care about the park, you are a “friend.” The Olmsted history included, reflects today’s needs. A brief Olmsted history of the park is especially helpful now.
As we all remember the social protocol during these Covid19 times while at the park, such as social distancing and the wearing of masks to keep each other safe there is an increase in its’ usage. I am happy to say, respectfully, rightfully harmoniously.
While using the park, I would like to remind you of the Olmstead design of the park. Having learned about this design firm it is quite great to say that Blackbrook Park is an Olmstead park.
This architectural landscape designed by the sons of Frederick Law Olmsted on Black Brook Park’s conceptualization, was done in 1921. As you take a minute, look around the park and you’ll notice the well designed placement of the trees around the park that gives you the sense that indeed, it was carefully planned. The County of Union continues to follow the Olmstead design and most recently has planted an elm tree through their Rutgers Extension Program, on the south west bank of the Shallcross Pond by the Black Brook. This was planted to block out traffic noise, a great beautiful addition among other things, the Olmsted firm stood for even after his passing in 1903.
Frederick Law Olmstead’s work continued under his sons developing the East-West greenway when Black Brook and the other parks in the county East West “parkway” were formed.
The Olmsted firm also designed the capitol grounds in Washington D.C. and Central Park in N.Y.C. The philosophy of this firm is one that offers a place, an oasis of sorts away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
I believe they have accomplished that for us all to enjoy even today at Black Brook Park.
