The Man Who Loved Trees

The Man Who Loved Trees tells the story of Frank A. Waugh (1869-1943) and his evolving love for trees. Waugh was a professor of landscape architecture and a pioneering advocate of native planting design. He wrote prolifically about trees and landscape design, publishing over twenty books and three hundred articles. He urged people to enjoy nature in the way that they enjoyed music or painting or sculpture. In the last eight years of his life, Waugh created at least 223 etchings, many portraying trees, but few have been viewed by the public. Annaliese Bischoff was inspired to write The Man Who Loved Trees after stumbling upon the prospectus for Waugh's planned book on tree portraits. It was packed in an orange crate along with over 150 etchings and drawings Waugh had created. Her book describes how Waugh's life as a professional landscape architect and renowned writer inspired him to learn the art of printmaking. Waugh's etchings reflect the themes he used in analyzing nature and in landscape design. Bischoff catalogs Waugh's loving portrayal of trees as individuals, families, and social groups.