Committee's Legacy Gift Welcomes Visitors to Historic Druid Hills
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New gateway signs honor Frederick Law Olmsted Sr.'s enduring vision for the community
In 2022, Druid Hills joined communities across the country to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Sr. The goal was not only to commemorate his remarkable contributions to American landscape design, but also to foster a greater appreciation of Olmsted’s legacy in future generations.
To mark the bicentennial, neighbors formed the Olmsted 200 Committee to organize a yearlong series of educational programs, community gatherings and special events, celebrating the designer whose vision helped shape the character and beauty of Druid Hills. Through the generosity of residents, sponsors and supporters, the committee raised just over $19,000 to fund a permanent legacy project for the community.
After careful consideration, the committee selected a project that reflects Olmsted's philosophy of thoughtful design and sense of place: distinctive gateway signs marking the eastern and western entrances to historic Druid Hills along Ponce de Leon Avenue.
Today, motorists, cyclists and pedestrians entering the neighborhood westward at Deepdene or eastward along Springdale are greeted by handsome new signs welcoming them to Historic Druid Hills. Designed to complement the character of the Olmsted Linear Park, the signs provide an elegant sense of arrival while reinforcing the neighborhood's unique identity.
Created by Tunnell & Tunnell Landscape Architecture, the design respects the historic landscape while incorporating timeless materials and craftsmanship that harmonize with the surrounding parks.
"The committee is thrilled to see this project finally come to fruition," committee-chair Anne Wallace said. "These gateway signs celebrate Druid Hills' rich history while creating a welcoming entrance that reflects Olmsted's original vision for the community."
The gateway signage stands as the Olmsted 200 Committee's lasting gift to Druid Hills and a visible reminder of the community's dedication to preserving its historic landscape and honoring the legacy of Frederick Law Olmsted Sr. More than a century after Olmsted envisioned Druid Hills as one of America's premier residential park communities, his influence continues to shape the neighborhood's identity and inspire its stewardship.
Olmsted Linear Park Alliance and the Druid Hills Civic Association extend their gratitude to the Olmsted 200 Committee, its volunteers, donors and community partners, whose generosity and commitment made this project possible. Together, their efforts have created a lasting welcome for everyone who enters Druid Hills and a fitting tribute to the visionary whose influence continues to flourish in one of Atlanta’s most treasured historic neighborhoods.
Olmsted 200 Committee Members: Anne Wallace (chair), Justin Critz, Kit Eisterhold, Tina Hart, Andrew Keenan, Paige Kubik, Julie Ralston, Alida Silverman, Jennie Richardson, Sally Sears, Cathy Vandenberg, Don Walter, Connie Weimar, Gale Walldorf, and Bonnie Wolf.
