Jacob Weidenmann: Pioneer Landscape Architect

There is a lot of excitement right now around the arrival of Cedar Hill Cemetery Foundation's first book, Jacob Weidenmann, Pioneer Landscape Architect. For the past forty years, Professor Emeritus Rudy J. Favretti, UConn, has been researching the life and accomplishments of Jacob Weidenmann (1829-1893) who pioneered the profession of landscape architecture as it is today. As a result of his research, Favretti has created a beautiful masterpiece that includes images of Weidenmann’s original design plans and final works as well as the personal story of the man who came from Switzerland and left his mark on landscapes across the United States.

Weidenmann’s contributions to Hartford include the design of Bushnell Park, Cedar Hill Cemetery, and the Butler-McCook Gardens. In addition to being its landscape architect, Weidenmann served as Cedar Hill’s first superintendent and now resides at Cedar Hill Cemetery in eternity. Recognizing the importance in sharing Weidenmann’s accomplishments, Cedar Hill Cemetery Foundation, in cooperation with Wesleyan University Press, published this educational and enjoyable manuscript, which will be a wonderful addition to any library.

Born in Stonington, Connecticut, author Rudy Favretti received degrees in horticulture, landscape architecture, and regional planning from the University of Connecticut, the University of Massachusetts and Cornell. Favretti served as a professor of landscape architecture at the University of Connecticut for 33 years during which time he founded UConn’s nationally accredited landscape architecture program. In addition to his career in education, Favretti conducted a private practice specializing in landscape preservation. His commissions include Thomas Jefferson’s “Monticello” and George Washington’s “Mt. Vernon.” He also served on the board of directors at Cedar Hill Cemetery for 10 years.

Jacob Weidenmann: Pioneer Landscape Architect will be available for sale everywhere in October, however, you can reserve a copy now by contacting Cedar Hill Cemetery Foundation. Author Rudy Favretti will sign all books purchased through Cedar Hill Cemetery Foundation. For more information or to reserve your book now, visit www.cedarhillcemetery.org.