L I B B Y H I L L P A R K
QUICK NOTES
DESIGNED BY: Wilfred E. Cutshaw
LOCATION: Richmond, VA
YEAR DESIGNED: 1850s (built in 1969)
NOTABLE DESIGN ELEMENTS: Picturesque and defined views of the City
long story short
The 7.5 acre park with a hilltop vista overlooking the James River that historically resembled that of Richmond-upon-Thames, England, the view from this high point is said to have given Richmond its name.
View of the City.
The selection of grasses not only directs the views to the James River, but also softens the edges of pathways along the way.
once upon a time
Known as the view that named the City, Libby Hill Park is one of the most beloved public spaces in Richmond. With historically-significant views of the James River, the park also provides unique views of the City, making it a truly significant place. The legend has it that in the early 1730s, William Byrd II, an English planter, politician, writer, and merchant, had seen this view and reminded of a similar place in England. A historic plaque on the grounds reads:
“The curve of the James River and steep slope on this side are very
much like the features of the River Thames in England,
a royal village west of London called Richmond upon Thames.”
Originally known as Marshall Square in the Church Hill neighborhood of the City, the park soon became known as Libby Hill Park, reflecting the prominence of landowner Luther Libby’s house nearby. The naturalistic upper segment of the park is connected by meandering paths to a lower terrace that features stone benches and an ornamental fountain. Libby Hill Park became a National Historic Landmark in 1969.
Newer cobblestones at the entrance plaza.
The historic cobblestones greeting visitors as they step down from the main plaza.
The wavering path, hugged by overflowing grasses and creeping groundcovers, invites visitors to take a stroll to the ‘view that named Richmond’.
The selection and placement of the plants create a journey and anticipation to the major reveal of the significant view.
The view that historically named Richmond.
The fountain on axis with the meandering pathway, overlooking the James River.
Today, the park is used for active and passive activities. They overall layout of the park, and especially its varying topography, makes for a number of different rooms within the park, inviting individuals to take the time to explore not only the space, but the City from different points of view. Though sometimes used for proposals and wedding photos, it is often used by the residents for yoga, an evening stroll, or just to take a break from a day, as it truly is a humbling view.
The combination of colors, textures, and heights create an interesting and unique atmosphere as one walks down the path.
Sources:
https://tclf.org/landscapes/libby-hill-park
** All photos by author unless otherwise noted.