Lytle Park

Lytle Park has a deep-rooted history that stretches back to the early days of Cincinnati. Originally part of the Lytle family estate, this land became a public park in the early 1900s, making it one of the city’s oldest green spaces.  It is named after General William H. Lytle, a soldier and poet, whose family played a significant role in shaping the city. His legacy is honored through a statue at the park's center, a symbol of his contributions both to Cincinnati and the nation.

Over the decades, Lytle Park has undergone various transformations, with careful efforts made to preserve its historical elements while incorporating modern updates. A focal point of downtown Cincinnati’s revitalization efforts, Lytle Park offers a unique blend of nature and city life, surrounded by iconic architecture like the Taft Museum of Art and the historic Phelps Building.

Landmarks of Lytle Park

In the midst of the 2-acre park stands a distinctive sculpture of Abraham Lincoln.  The monument was sculpted by George Grey Barnard and commissioned by Charles P. Taft, brother of 27th U.S. President William Howard Taft. The Bronze statue stands 11-feet tall and was unveiled in 1917 with some controversy. 

Before sculpting the piece, Bernard studied the information available to him.  He was suspicious of photographs, even in 1917 when retouching was still an approach some photographers used.  Instead, he relied heavily on life mask casts created while Lincoln was still in office.  Critics at the time did not like rendition, describing the statue as hideous and grotesque.  Perhaps it was from the rail splitting of his youth, or the weight of his Presidency, but many expressed concerns.  Today, the Barnard's Lincoln stands proudly in Lytle Park a few short blocks from downtown Cincinnati. 

Lytle Park in Art: A Reflection of Cincinnati’s Elegance

For Cincinnatians, Lytle Park holds a special place as a peaceful oasis that offers a break from the fast-paced urban environment. Fine art photography prints of Lytle Park allow locals to bring this tranquility and history into their homes. These prints capture the essence of Lytle Park—its stately trees, beautiful landscaping, and impressive Lincoln Sculpture—offering a chance to showcase local pride and aesthetic appreciation.