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William Cullen Bryant emerged as a strong proponent for the establishment of a large park in 1844. Bryant was a noted poet both in the United States and abroad, and was the editor of the prestigious New York Evening Post.(3) Using his position as editor, Bryant expressed to his readers the importance of setting aside a large tract of land to be converted into a park for the people. Bryant believed that the best site for such an endeavor was Jones Woods; a 160-acre tract of untouched and tree covered land located between 66th Street and 75th Street.(4) Although Jones Woods was not selected as the location for Central Park, Bryants prominent position and respected reputation enabled him to effectively convey to New Yorkers the urgency of creating a large park in the city.
William Cullen Bryant
1797-1878
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