"Since its founding in 1855, Michigan State University has emerged from its modest "oak opening" in the wilderness to become a large campus park. This growth reflects the commitment of campus leaders since the nineteenth century to develop MSU as a beautiful and educational public resource, as well as a demonstration model, befitting one of the first land-grant institutions in the United States.".

"From early landscape gardeners influenced by Ossian Cole Simonds and the nationally known Olmsted Brothers, to the vision of President John Hannah, the consistent intent has been to interrelate architecture and the campus park. The result is a campus whose development reflects major trends in American architecture and whose creators include local, regional, and nationally known architectural firms."--BOOK JACKET.