The Architectural and Horticultural Endeavors of the Downing Brothers
Charles Downing and brother Andrew Jackson Downing have left a lasting imprint in both the field pomology and landscape architecture.
Kick off tour to New York Apple Camp and the Downings
In this episode, audio snap shots from the Milton and Newburgh New York as part of the Downing tour, pre Apple Camp.
Tour Itinerary:
- Assemble at Milton Historical Train Station
41 Dock Rd., Milton, NY 12547 - Caravan to Crawford House
- Walk neighborhood and visit site of Andrew Jackson Downing former nursery
- Visit Downing Park Construction started in 1894 and the park was opened in 1897.
- 181-141 Carpenter Ave, Newburgh, NY 12550
- Visit to Cedar Hill Cemetery
- 5468 Route 9W North, Newburgh NY 12550
- Lunch
- Visit Klyne Esopus Museum with historian Louis Tiemperio
764 Route 9W, Ulster Park, NY 12487
Charles Downing: The Pomological Pioneer
Charles Downing, the elder brother of Andrew, was an eminent pomologist, dedicating his life to the study of fruits, with a particular focus on apples. His extensive research and writings on pomology have contributed immensely to the understanding and classification of various fruit varieties, including a myriad of apple species. Charles worked meticulously to catalog different apple varieties, contributing significantly to the field’s growing body of knowledge.
Charles’ work in pomology complemented Andrew’s landscape designs, merging form with function, aesthetics with agriculture. The duo often collaborated, creating designs that were not only visually appealing but also agriculturally productive, embodying a holistic approach to landscape architecture.
Legacy
Tragically, Andrew Jackson Downing’s life was cut short in 1852 when he died in a steamboat accident on the Hudson River. Despite his untimely death at the age of 36, his ideas continued to shape American landscape architecture, influencing the design of renowned public spaces, including New York’s Central Park.
Charles Downing continued his work in pomology after his brother’s passing, solidifying his reputation as a leading authority on fruit and helping to propagate a diverse array of fruit varieties across America. The intertwining legacies of the Downing brothers live on, their principles echoing in the gardens, parks, and orchards of today.
Mentions in this chat
- Fermentis: SafCider™ Yeasts for your cider!
- Visit Idaho and taste the ciders! More info at https://nwcider.com/map
- Heritage Orchard Conference https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/sandpoint-organic-agriculture-center/conference
