George W. Marston, 1850-1946
Marston was a city councilman, a political organizer, and the first president of the Lincoln-Roosevelt League. He initiated and sustained city planning to counteract the negative effects of urbanization and industrialization as part of his Progressive reform efforts.

George Marston's ideals included equal rights for women and minorities, the right for labor to organize and protect workers, and everyone's right to freedom of expression.

Urban parks were a reform effort; the goal was to provide relief from over crowding and industrial blight, and to create a healthier environment for city living.

He believed employees should have more than a living wage, and opportunities for a great measure of health, comfort, and a beautiful environment.

Courtesy Pomona College