Endale Arch Restoration
Endale Arch, completed in 1868, was the very first permanent structure built in Prospect Park by Olmsted, Vaux & Co. The arch was designed as both a passageway to separate pedestrians from the horse and carriage traffic on the Drive above and as a shelter from rain and snow. Endale Arch exemplifies Olmsted’s philosophy of blending architecture with landscape, in form, material, and in purposeful framed views.
Carefully designed templates and jigs were used to achieve the complex geometry of the double vaulted arch.
The granite block wall and brick of the north cross vault was left exposed to highlight the detailed craftsmanship of Endale Arch’s original construction. LED lighting was integrated into the wood trim along the length of the arch ceiling. Visitors can now enjoy the arch as it appeared to the park’s earliest guests, with the benefit of modern lighting which makes the arch glow invitingly after dark.
