Ossian Cole Simonds

Ossian Cole Simonds (November 11, 1855 – November 20, 1931), often known as O. C. Simonds, was an American landscape designer. He preferred the term 'landscape gardener' to that of 'landscape architect'. A number of Simonds' works are listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places (NRHP).

Early life and education Simonds was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on November 11, 1855, where he developed a love of nature through his explorations of its woods. From 1874 to 1878, he studied civil engineering at the University of Michigan and, briefly, architecture with William Le Baron Jenney.

Career In 1878, Simonds joined Jenney's architectural practice in Chicago. His first project was Graceland Cemetery where he learned naturalistic English-style landscape design. Through Jenney's tutelage, he learned how to use native plants in landscape design, an unusual practice at the time. He studied local woods, hydrology, and topography leading him to be credited with the creation of the Prairie Style along with Jens Jensen, and Walter Burley Griffin. In 1881, Martin Roche, who had also worked in Jenney's office, joined them as a third partner. In 1883, Simonds left the firm to concentrate solely to become the superintendent at Graceland.

In 1888, Ossian Cole Simonds' first project after Graceland was to create a site plan for Fort Sheridan which was to include a parade ground for drills. Simonds used a natural ravine to boarder the meadow created for the purpose. A scenic drive was incorporated into the plan which showcased natural vistas and brick and stone officers' housing. The effect of the plan was lauded as picturesque and charming. In the book, he lays out his approach to landscape design which looks to nature to inform the design. This included the use of native plants, the use of greenways, and warning of urban sprawl. He also founded the Chair of Landscape Design at the University of Michigan (U of M). In 1929, he was honored with a master's of arts from U of M.

In 1922, Simonds designed the grounds of the Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois.

Simonds died November 20, 1931, after an extended illness in Chicago. Lake Forest Cemetery, 1525 N. Lake Rd. Lake Forest, IL Simonds, Ossian Cole, NRHP-listed Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53 Lisle, IL 60532 https://acorn.mortonarb.org/Detail/entities/1502