John Horace McFarland (1859–1948) was an American businessman, writer, and conservationist, known for his advocacy of the City Beautiful Movement and contributions to horticulture and environmental preservation.
Born in McAlisterville, Pennsylvania, he was the son of Union Army Colonel George F. McFarland. He spent most of his life in Harrisburg, where he established Breeze Hill, a renowned estate with gardens, trees, and roses. His passion for civic beautification led to his presidency of the American Civic Association (1904–24,) promoting urban improvement and conservation.
McFarland helped protect Niagara Falls from industrial development and worked with John Muir to advocate for Yosemite National Park, contributing to the National Park Service’s creation (1916.)
His publications include Getting Acquainted with Trees (1904) on tree cultivation, The Rose in America (1923) on rose varieties, and Beauty for Ashes (1931) on landscape design and civic beautification.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by J. Horace McFarland
It is the love of country that has lighted and that keeps glowing the holy fire of patriotism. And this love is excited, primarily, by the beauty of the country.
—J. Horace McFarland
Topics: Wilderness
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