In the matter of city planning and landscape design George E. Kessler was an expert. This master's works tranformed many cities, college campuses,and private lawns across the United States. The Kessler Society of Kansas City, Missouri, is dedicated to educating the public on the historical significance and value today of Kessler's legacy by creating an electronic archive to enable historians, students and lovers of great landscapes and beautiful cities to view Kessler's original works. Only through education and accessibility will his gifts be appreciated and, we hope maintained and restored.
During his 40-year career, George E. Kessler prepared plans for 26 communities, 26 park and boulevard systems, 49 parks, 46 estates & residents, and 26 schools. His projects can be found in 23 states, Mexico, and China and in 100 cities.
Besides his extensive body of work (over 230 known projects), George Kessler served as an advisor to numerous park boards, was a member of a dozen parks boards, and was a city plan advisor for a half dozen cities. He was one of the founders of the American Institute of Planners in 1917 and was a member of the National Council of Fine Arts. During World War I, he was a member of the committee of 16 architects which planned 16 national army cantonments (military camps) in the United States.
When George Kessler's offices were closed, virtually all his drawings were either destroyed or distributed to clients. The remaining papers were donated to the Missouri Historic Society in St. Louis. The Kansas City, Missouri, Board of Parks Commissioners has an extensive collection of drawings for the Kansas City parks and boulevards system. They will be added to this archive. As other drawings are obtained, they will also be added. If you have Kessler's drawings, please share them with us so that they may be viewed, studied, and appreciated by everyone. If there are any additions or corrections to the list of projects, we welcome them also.
KESSLER SOCIETY of KANSAS CITYP.O. Box 414853, Kansas City, MO 64141
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