One of many outstanding landmarks in Boston, the Lagoon Bridge graces America's first public botanical garden. Established in 1837, the Boston Public Garden was designed to showcase 24 acres of formal plantings, statues, fountains and 47 different tree species, all centered around a picturesque lagoon.
   One of a line of parks further enhanced by Frederick Law Olmsted, the garden began to take shape in 1862. The Lagoon Bridge, pictured here, was completed in 1867. Designed by Clemens Herschel and William G. Preston, the bridge was anchored by gray granite abutments, with a wooden deck supported by wrought iron links. Restored to its original appearance, the bridge was rededicated in 1996. Crossing the Lagoon at its narrowest point, the bridge is the highlight of the park. Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987, the bridge is now supported with girders and the suspension system is purely decorative.
   The equestrian statue of George Washington, the second monument to arrive in the garden, was created by Thomas Ball. Working on its plaster cast for four years, pouring the statue was put on hold until after the Civil War. Cast in a Massachusetts foundry, the bronze piece was finally unveiled during a grand ceremony in 1869.
   Maintaining the city's parks is quite expensive. Sharing costs with the city, the Friends of the Public Garden help finance the garden and provide routine maintenance. One of a string of Boston parks, known as the Emerald Necklace, the Boston Public Garden is one that shouldn't be missed.

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