CHAPTER III:
PARKS OF THE NATIONAL CAPITAL, 1933-1951
Superintendent of National Capital Parks
The office of Public Buildings and Public Parks of the National
Capital was absorbed by the newly designated office of National Parks,
Buildings and Reservations, Department of the Interior by Executive
Order on June 10, 1933, under authority of the act of March 3, 1933. [58] Under this reorganization, which became
effective on August 9, 1933, the Buildings Division and the Parks
Division were separated. However, both these divisions remained under
the direct control of the office of National Parks, Buildings and
Reservations, Department of the Interior. Actually the separation at
this time was not completely effected as both divisions remained closely
coordinated. Frank T. Gartside, who had been Chief of the Park Division
from 1925 to 1933, was appointed the Acting Superintendent of the Park
Division on August 20, 1933.
National Capital Parks
The cumbersome name of the office of National Parks, Buildings and
Reservations, Department of the Interior was changed to the "National
Park Service" in the Interior Department Appropriation act of March 2,
1934. [59] The name National Capital Parks
was officially used for the first time when the Park Division was called
"National Capital Parks" in the District of Columbia appropriation act
of June 4, 1934. [60] National Capital Parks,
as the direct legal successor to the office of the original three
Federal Commissioners, retained many of the same duties and powers once
exercised by these commissioners of 1791. Due to the growth of the
Capital, certain functions once performed by the original office were
transferred to newly formed Government agencies. The control of most of
the utilitarian type of public buildings was shifted to a new agency in
1939, when the functions of the administration of public buildings was
transferred to the Public Buildings Administration of the Federal Works
Agency. [61] However, certain historic public
buildings continued to be administered by the National Capital Parks
office. Among the most important of these structures was the Executive
Mansion. The Park office retained control of the public reservations and
also all official records of public reservations in the District of
Columbia. Many of these original land records were transferred to the
National Archives for protection and preservation.
While the office of National Capital Parks is a unit in the National
Park System of the United States, it occupies an unusual place with
respect to all other field units in the National Park Service. It is
older than the National Park Service, since its legal continuity can be
traced back to 1790. At the same time many of its functions are entirely
different from other field units in the National Park System. In
addition to performing work similar to other National Parks and National
Monuments, the office supervises a vast system of municipal parks and
parkways, which in itself differs from all other National Parks. Not
only does the office supervise a municipal park system, but it
supervises the park system of the Nation's Capital, established for the
enjoyment of the people of the United States.
In general, the office of National Capital Parks in 1934 was charged
with the design and development of park areas, the maintenance of all
areas and facilities, protection of park property and park visitors,
operation of recreational facilities and the general supervision and
administration of recreational facilities, cooperation with the National
Capital Park and Planning Commission in general planning of parks and
parkways for the District of Columbia and surrounding territory as a
major part of city and regional planning, and care and maintenance of
the Executive Mansion and grounds. [62]
General Organization
On October 9, 1933, C. Marshall Finnan was appointed Superintendent
of National Capital Parks by the Secretary of the Interior and was in
general charge of the office until July 31, 1939. [63] Associated with the Superintendent in the
overhead administration was one assistant Superintendent, six division
chiefs, a landscape architect, a park Naturalist, and an assistant
clerkstenographer. [64] During the
years following 1934, certain new divisions and new functions were added
to the office. It is interesting to view these changes in administrative
procedure as they occurred. Although the organization of the office in
1934 differs somewhat from the present organization in 1952, the duties
and functions of the office have remained much the same.
Indicative of the steady growth of National Capital Parks is the
fact that the number of employees increased from 724 in 1934 to 1011 in
1951. [65] Over this period of 16 years the
duties of the Superintendent increased tremendously. In the present day
organization of the office, the Superintendent is assisted by an
Associate Superintendent, an Assistant Superintendent, and a Special
Assistant, each of whom, is delegated supervisory power over various
divisions.
Superintendent of National Capital Parks
With the intense development and growth of the National Capital, the
duties of the Superintendent became increasingly complex. On July 28,
1950, Edward J. Kelly succeeded Irving C. Root as the Superintendent of
National Capital Parks. Mr. Root had served from January 2, 1941 to July
28, 1950. According to the following official organization chart for
1950, the responsibilities of Superintendent Kelly were many and
included certain duties identical to those performed by the three
Federal Commissioners of 1791.
The Superintendent
Supervises the administration, maintenance, operation, improvement,
and protection of the National Capital Parks System. Supervises the
administration, maintenance, and improvement of the Executive Mansion
and Grounds. Supervises park concessions and facilities. Directs the
preparation of detailed plans in accordance with general plans of the
National Capital Park and Planning Commission for the development of the
District of Columbia recreation system and maintains these areas for the
District of Columbia Recreation Board; directs the maintenance and
improvement of grounds and plantings of other government agencies. The
Superintendent is a member of the District of Columbia Coordinating
Committee of the National Capital Park and Planning Commission and a
member of the District of Columbia Recreation Board, Motor Vehicle
Parking Agency, and the Commissioner's Traffic Advisory Board. [66]
Working directly under the Superintendent is a staff of specialists
in various phases of park work. Functioning as a coordinated unit this
staff constitutes a competent and experienced park force for the Capital
of the United States.
Significant Changes, 19331951
From 1933 to 1951 several significant changes have occurred in the
office of National Capital Parks. These changes have caused the
discontinuance of certain divisions and the addition of other divisions.
They relieved the office of certain duties and they added other new
responsibilities.
The D. C., W. P. A. contributed to park development in connection
with the following projects: Fort Drive at Fort Reno, Piney Branch Road
from Arkansas to Beach Drive, Coolidge Recreational area, Banneker
Recreational area and swimming pool, Turkey Thicket, and the demolition
and regrading of the 16th Street reservoir.
Civilian Conservation Corps
The introduction of the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933 as a
part of the Emergency Works Program introduced certain changes in the
operating procedure of National Capital Parks. CCC operations in the
National Capital Parks definitely commenced with the authorization dated
September 23, 1933 from CCC Director Robert Fechner to Director Cammerer
of the National Park Service. [67] This
authorization provided for the establishment of CCC Camps at Fort Hunt,
Virginia, and Fort Dupont, District of Columbia. These two camps were
set up on October 15, 1933 and October 23, 1933, respectively. [68] Subsequently, eight additional camps were
established in the Washington area.
According to the operational procedure of the CCC, each Government
Department had a representative on the Advisory Council of the CCC. This
representative acted as the general supervisor of the program of his
respective department. National Capital Parks operated as a field unit
like other National Parks under the National Park Service. [69] At first, the National Capital Parks CCC
Camps were under the general supervision of the Regional Park Service
office No. 1, located at Richmond, Virginia. This procedure was modified
on August 1, 1939 so that National Capital Parks could deal directly
with the National Park Service Washington office staff handling CCC
operations. [70] Collaboration was maintained
with the State Park Division of the National Park Service in the
operation of CCC Camps in State park areas adjacent to the National
Capital Parks and in the Chopawamsic (later the Prince William Forest
Park) and Catoctin recreational demonstration areas, both intended for
transfer to National Capital Parks jurisdiction. [71] CCC operations continued up until 1942,
during which time, numerous achievements in park development were
accomplished.
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CCC Construction of Parking Area at Roaches Run
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Naturalist Division
The Naturalist program of National Capital Parks became effective
December 1, 1932, with the appointment of Mr. Irvin N. Hoffman as
Naturalist with the office of Public Buildings and Public Parks of the
National Capital. [72] Mr. Hoffman resigned
on August 15, 1934. In 1935, there was some activity in the field of
Natural history, when Park Naturalist Raymond H. Gregg was assigned to
the office for a brief period to conduct an intensive Naturalist
interpretive program. On February 7, 1936, Donald E. McHenry reported
for his assignment in charge of the Naturalist work of National Capital
Parks. [73] The extent of services offered by
the Naturalist Division has steadily increased over the years. At
present, an interpretive force consisting of Chief Naturalist W. Drew
Chick, Jr. and three Park Naturalists provide natural history
enthusiasts of the Washington area with an outstanding service. This
force of specialists is augmented by several temporary
rangernaturalists in the summer months. The division affords the
office of National Capital Parks the services of highly trained
personnel for research and interpretation in natural history.
National Memorials and Historic Sites Division
The National Memorials and Historic Sites Division was established
in 1940. In April of that year Handle B. Truett, who had been assigned
to the office as Superintendent of Lee Mansion in 1939, was appointed
the first historian of National Capital Parks. [74] The responsibilities of the Historical
Division were greatly increased in 1940, when the Lee Mansion, Lincoln
Memorial, Washington Monument, Lincoln Museum, House Where Lincoln Died,
end the Battleground Cemetery were placed in that division for the
purpose of supervision and operation. [75]
Mr. Truett then became Chief of the National Memorials and Historic
Sites Division. In addition to its research and interpretive program,
the Historical Division was charged with the maintenance, operation, and
protection of all National Memorials and Historic Sites under the
jurisdiction of National Capital Parks.
The Greenhouses
In 1942 there occurred another change in the operations of the
office. Although having nothing to do with the creation or abolishment
of any divisions, the permanent abandonment of the Greenhouses on July
1, 1942 brought down the curtain on an operation associated with
National Capital Parks for many years. [76]
For a long time the parks and the Executive Mansion had been graced with
a beautiful array of flowers from the greenhouses staffed by personnel
of the Horticultural Division. The operation of the greenhouses was a
large scale operation requiring the services of a large number of
employees of the Horticultural Division. In 1942 there were 33 separate
greenhouses located at 15th and C Streets, S. W., indicating the
comprehensive scale of the operation. The greenhouses represented a
responsibility, which required constant maintenance and both general and
specialized horticultural work. Plants in all of the greenhouses were
regularly fumigated. General propagation of the flowering and foliage
plants was an extensive operation. The beautiful roses, carnations,
chrysanthemums and poinsettias, which annually came forth from the
greenhouses, were a tribute to the skill and care of the greenhouse
staff. The permanent abandonment of the Greenhouses, approved by the
President in accordance with a letter of the Director of the Budget of
April 2, became effective on July 1, 1942. [77] Operations at the greenhouses were
terminated on June 30, 1942. Upon the President's direction, the Army
and Navy Medical centers were granted first priority in claiming the
greenhouse materials. The remaining stock was distributed to Bolling
Field, United States Army War College, Arlington National Cemetery, and
other Federal agencies.
Recreation Division
Until 1942, National Capital Parks had its own Recreation Division,
having charge of the construction, maintenance, and operation on a
permit basis of all recreational facilities in the parks of the National
Capital. It was the policy of the Federal Government not to engage in
supervised recreation. National Capital Parks built and maintained
facilities for 30 major sports. These facilities were open to
individuals and groups on a permit basis. The Recreation Division also
handled public contact work of the office for all public events
scheduled in the parks. The Annual reports of the Recreation Division
illustrate the tremendous amount of work carried on by this division.
Almost every conceivable type of athletic activity was available for
park users. Excellent band and symphony concerts were offered to the
public. All major celebrations, ceremonies, and dedications in the parks
were arranged and supervised by the Chief of the Division, as they are
so arranged today by the Special Assistant to the Superintendent.
On April 19, 1942, Congress authorized the creation of a District of
Columbia Recreation Board. [78] This Board
was given the authority to determine all questions of general policy
relating to public recreation in and for the District of Columbia. [79] However, it is important to remember that
the District Recreation Board was a local board, with power to act
solely in and for the District of Columbia. It did not have authority to
fix policy in the parks for that responsibility and authority was
imposed by law upon the Secretary of the Interior and delegated to the
Office of National Capital Parks. [80] The
District Recreation Board carried on a program of supervised recreation
in various park areas, making use of National Capital Parks facilities.
These facilities were constructed and maintained by Federal employees.
The use of these facilities conformed to the over-head park policy of
National Capital Parks. The title to many areas used by the District of
Columbia Recreation Board remained with the Federal Government and the
ultimate jurisdiction over these areas remained with the Department of
the Interior. The creation of the District of Columbia Recreation Board
did result in the discontinuance of the Recreation Division of National
Capital Parks. All public relations operations, permits, and supervision
of park events, which had been handled by the Recreation Division,
passed on to the Special Assistant to the Superintendent.
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Greenhouses
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Planning
The plan of 1901, which gave rebirth to the L'Enfant plan, also gave
the needed emphasis to park planning. Until recent years, National
Capital Parks did not have its own Planning Division. However, the
office had been fortunate in having the services of a landscape
architect whose duty it was to prepare all architectural and landscape
plans. This specialist was directly responsible to the Chief of the
Branch of Plans and Design of the National Park Service. Today,
architectural and landscape plans of the office are still subject to the
approval of the National Park Service. However, the Chief of the
Planning Division of National Capital Parks is now deputized to sign all
National Capital Parks Plans for the Chief of Design and Construction of
the National Park Service.
Engineering
Prior to 1933, when the office of National Capital Parks was known
as the office of Public Buildings and Public Parks of the National
Capital, an Army Officer was executive officer in charge of engineering.
Directly under this Army officer was a civilian chief of Engineering.
Since August 9, 1933, the engineering matters of the office have been
entirely in the hands of civilian engineers. Immediately following
August 9, 1933, Mr. Gillen was made chief of the Engineering Section.
All longrange engineering plans were subject to the approval of
the Engineering Division of the National Park Service. Robert Horne,
present chief of the Engineering Division, came to the office in 1935.
Subsequently, National Capital Parks developed a separate Engineering
Division.
Because of the nature and functions of the office, legal problems
were continually arising. These problems were concerned with police
matters, protection of public property, review of contracts, land
titles, and many other legalistic aspects of park work. Following 1933,
the office had at its disposal the services of the legal division of the
National Park Service. Whenever any question involving a point of law
arose, the advice and counsel of the legal division of the National Park
Service was sought.
Legal Division
In time, it was considered advisable that National Capital Parks
should have its own Legal Division. The first step in this direction
came on February 18, 1943, when the position of Senior Attorney was set
up in the Office. Mr. Sidney McClellan became the first Senior Attorney
of National Capital Parks. The Legal Division became fully established
as a Division in May of 1946. On May 20, 1946, Alexander J. Knox,
formerly of the National Park Service Legal staff, was appointed Chief
of the Legal Division, National Capital Parks. From this time forward,
the Office has had the services and counsel of its own legal staff.
Special Problems
As a field office of the National Park Service operating the park
system of the National Capital. National Capital Parks is placed in a
unique position. Because of the nature of the Government of the District
of Columbia, the park office is confronted with certain special problems
foreign to other field units of the National Park Service, Washington,
the seat of the National Government, is a Federal city. In the final
analysis, the city of Washington is governed by the Congress of the
United States. The District budget as approved by Congress is made up of
revenue collected within the District plus a certain amount appropriated
out of the Federal Treasury. Congress created a local government as
early as 1802, assigning to it certain functions of a purely local
nature. This Government was changed to its present form in 1878,
consisting of three Commissioners appointed by the President of the
United States. The citizens of Washington do not have the right of
suffrage. For many years it was thought by certain members of Congress
that if given the vote, Washington would become the battle ground of
local interests, causing the disappearance of the National character of
the city. It is not the intention here to discuss a Federal-Municipal
controversy of long standing. This work is concerned only with the parks
of the Capital, which were established as national parks to be
administered by the Federal Government. They have remained national
parks through the years, contributing to the enjoyment of the citizens
of Washington, and those of the Nation.
The Budget
In the operation of these parks, National Capital Parks has been
faced for many years with the necessity of operating under a duel
budget, although ultimately all money comes by way of a Congressional
appropriation. Perhaps the greatest source of friction between the
Government of the District and Congress is the making up the Budget. [81] The source of all appropriations for
National Capital Parks is the Congress of the United States. However,
the National Capital Parks office may receive its total annual
appropriation from at least four separate appropriations. First, there
is the National Capital Parks appropriation included in the Interior
Department Appropriation act under the heading "National Park Service."
[82] Second, is the National Capital Parks
appropriation included in the District of Columbia Appropriation act
under the heading "National Capital Parks." This money is disbursed in
total upon passage of the Appropriation bill and is deposited by
National Capital Parks in a trust fund account. Thirdly, money
appropriated to the District of Columbia Recreation Board is made
available to the National Capital Parks for specific construction and
maintenance work. [83] A fourth individual
appropriation used by the Office, and one of major importance, is the
separate appropriation in the Independent Offices Act for the
maintenance and operation of the Executive Mansion and Grounds, a
responsibility of the National Capital Parks office since 1792. In
addition to these specific appropriations, the Office receives funds by
virtue of a very large amount of reimbursable work performed annually
for General Services, District of Columbia Government, Bureau of Public
Roads, and other Government agencies. Considering the complexity of the
Federal appropriations coming to the office of National Capital Parks,
it is a distinct compliment to the Administrative Division that the
fiscal functions of the office are carried on in a thorough and
efficient manner.
Concessions
In the development of the park system in the National Capital, a
policy was adopted not to operate all recreational facilities directly
by the park Office, but to handle many of them through private
management under the general supervision of a Recreation Division of the
park office. [84] The three principal
concessioners operating facilities in the park system under this
arrangement are Government Services, Inc. (formerly the Welfare and
Recreation Association of Public Buildings), the S. G. Loeffler
Operating Company, and the Almour's Securities, Inc. Government
Services, Inc., is a nonprofit corporation, operating
accommodations, facilities, and services for the public within 28 acres
under the administration of National Capital Parks. [85] These services include the operation of six
swimming pools, the Potomac Park Motor Court, four souvenir stands, the
Fort Washington Housing project, the Watergate Theater and related
facilities, and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Barge. [86] A twenty-year contract has recently been
entered into between the Department of the Interior and Government
Services, Inc. to replace the contract which expired March 31, 1951.
This contract provides for the operation by Government Services, Inc. of
the various accommodations, facilities, and services for the public
within the areas under the administration of National Capital Parks. [87] The S. G. Loeffler Operating Company
operates 10 nine-hole golf courses in the park areas of Washington. This
company is responsible for the maintenance of the golf courses and for
the keeping of all properties in good condition. Profit accruing from
the operation of the courses and houses therein goes to the Operating
Company. [88] The Almour's Securities
Company, Inc. operates the Little Hatchet Tavern, a restaurant and
refreshment stand at the Mount Vernon terminus of the Mount Vernon
Memorial Highway. This, like the operation of the golf courses and golf
houses under the Loeffler Operating Company, is strictly a private
concession but under the general supervision of the park Office. [89]
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Bicycling in East Potomac Park
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Important Developments, 1933-1951
A tremendous development of the park system of the National Capital
was effected during the years 1933 to 1951. This development was both
extensive and intensive. It was extensive as the increase in park lands
was phenomenal. Today, National Capital Parks consist of 45,000 acres,
while in 1933, the entire park system including Maryland and Virginia
consisted of only 6,367.39 acres. It was intensive because it resulted
in varied achievements touching upon many fields of endeavor. This
development tapped the resources of many professions. More over, this
development has not stopped. It is continuing with ever increasing
intensity. New concepts in the field of park work were adopted, so that
the park development of the National Capital could keep abreast to the
needs of a growing community and Nation. Experts in the fields of
administration, landscape architecture, history, natural history,
construction, engineering, architecture, and park protection all
contributed to the development of the park system during this
period.
Acquisitions, 19331951
The growth of park lends during the last 18 years has made the
National Capital Parks one of the largest park systems in the United
States. From 1933 to the present time over 38,000 acres of park land
have been acquired. [90] Among the largest of
the more recent acquisitions are the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, Catoctin
park, and Prince William Forest Park. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal,
once a vital transportation artery of the Potomac Valley, came into the
park system in 1938 and consists of 5,253 acres. Prince William Forest
Park, located approximately 35 miles south of Washington, near Quantico,
Virginia, was acquired in 1941 and consists of 14,300 acres. [91] Catoctin Park, located at Thurrmont,
Maryland, became a part of National Capital Parks in 1942 and consists
of 10,000 acres. [92]
Other important land acquisitions during the past 18 years include
the Theodore Roosevelt Island, Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, Dumbarton
Oaks, Fort Washington, and a number of Playgrounds within the District
of Columbia. [93] The Kenilworth Aquatic
Gardens provide a distinctive park feature, probably not duplicated
anywhere in the World. Formerly known as the Shaw Lily gardens, they
were acquired in 1938. Dumbarton Oaks Park, although small in area, is
an extremely valuable park reservation located in historic Georgetown.
It was first opened to the public on Easter weekend of 1941. [94]
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Water Lilies at Kenilworth
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Fort Washington
The transfer of Fort Washington to the park Office was authorized in
1933, and permanently effected in 1940. [95]
The first Fort Washington was substantially completed by December 1,
1809, and was designed to be a part of the defenses of the Capital. As
ships of the British Royal Navy approached the fort on August 27, 1814,
Captain Dyson, the American Commander, destroyed the fort. Initial work
on the second Fort Washington began on September 8, 1814, when Major
Pierre Charles L'Enfant was ordered by the Acting Secretary of War James
Monroe to take charge of the reconstruction of the Fort. One of the best
examples of early American fortifications, this historic fort occupies a
strategic location overlooking the Potomac river opposite Mount
Vernon.
National Memorials and Historic Sites
In addition to the foregoing park areas, several of the Nation's
outstanding National Monuments and Historic Sites were returned after a
brief absence to the Office of National Capital Parks. In 1940, the Lee
Mansion, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Lincoln Museum, House
Where Lincoln Died, and the Battleground Cemetery were placed in the
National Memorials and Historic Sites Division. The return of these
nationally revered memorials to the Office under which they were
constructed was a significant addition to the expending National Capital
Parks. Before 1933, all of these National Monuments as well as the parks
had been administered by the office of Public Buildings and Public Parks
of the National Capital. When the legal jurisdiction of this office
passed to the National Park Service, the buildings division and the
parks division were separated. This separation became permanently fixed
in 1939, when the administration of Public Buildings was placed with the
Federal Works Agency, while the parks and certain historic structures
were left under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service,
Department of the Interior. [96]
The National Monuments and Historic Sites have become a vital part
of National Capital Parks. The Washington Monument, the Lincoln
Memorial, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, and the Lee Mansion are each
expressions of the love and devotion of the American people for the
memory of great Americans. Known throughout the land, these monuments
have become symbols of particular achievements in our National life. As
our Nation grows, the importance of American history increases. Besides
an awareness of World history, our children will become more and more
familiar with the development of our own Nation. For to be informed
citizens of the World, they must first of all be informed citizens of
their own country. As an aid in this direction, the National Memorials
and Historic Sites throughout the Nation are continually increasing in
value. A striking example of this, is the visitation to the National
Monuments located in Washington, which finds the Lincoln Memorial
National Monument receiving over two million visitors annually, the
highest visitation received by any National Park Service area. Thousands
of school children flock to Washington yearly. They are inspired and
educated in American history by visits to the National Monuments and
Historic sites in the Nation's Capital.
Fort Stevens
Virtually all the famous battlefields of the great conflict between
the North and South are embraced within the National Park System. These
fields, 19 in all, constitute the largest single group of historic sites
in Federal ownership. [97] National Capital
Parks has several unique reminders of the Civil War. On August 10, 1933
the Battleground Cemetery was added to the office. [98] This cemetery contains the graves of Union
soldiers, killed during the attack on Washington by the Confederate
General Jubal A. Early. Fort Stevens, where the forces of General Early
were repulsed by Union defenders, has previously been included in the
park system. Today, Fort Stevens Park preserves the historical site,
where Abraham Lincoln stood under fire of enemy guns during Early's
attack on Washington on July 12, 1864. [99]
These historical areas are graphic reminders of the strategic location
and psychological importance of Washington during the years of the Civil
War.
Civilian Conservation Corps Developments
As was true of many areas under the National Park Service, National
Capital Parks underwent several large-scale developments during the
operation of the Civilian Conservation Corps. In all, 10 CCC Camps were
established in the Washington area. Achievements under the CCC program
increased as the trainees gained added experience in the various trades
and crafts, in surveying, administrative work, museum exhibit
preparation, landscaping, tree preservation, roads and trail
construction, and other types of development and conservation projects
in the programs. [100] The National Capital
Parks as a technical agency was given funds for the purchase of supplies
and equipment, and employment of technical supervisory and other
facilitating personnel for the work programs. During the course of the
program a total of $1,229,813.19 was obligated by the office of National
Capital Parks. [101] It was the
responsibility of the park office to plan and prosecute work projects
within its area, By means of numerous work projects, a rehabilitation of
older park areas and a development of new areas was effected. As was
true of other areas in the National Park Service, many enrollees learned
helpful trades. While learning these trades, they contributed to the
beautification and development of park areas. Achievements in park work
effected during the period of Civilian Conservation Corps operation may
be viewed all about the National Capital today.
During the period of CCC operation a multitude of permanent physical
improvements was achieved. Some of these improvements are as follows:
bridges were built; signs, markers, tables, and benches were
constructed; foot trails, horse trails, truck trails, and minor roads
were constructed; the clearing and cleaning of channels required the
removal of 88,000 square yards of earth. [102] Over 20,000 feet of tile lines was
constructed; over 35,000 square yards of earth was removed during riprap
work. Fine grading road slopes was a major accomplishment. Almost
120,000 individual trees and shrubs were moved and planted. Parking
areas and parking overlooks were built and picnic areas developed.
Certain undesirable structures were removed. Over 65,000 cubic yards of
earth was removed in excavation of channels and canals. [103] Tree preservation received considerable
attention. Four historic structures were restored. Major jobs of
restoration and general park maintenance were undertaken at Fort
Washington, Fort Dupont, and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. These work
projects are typical of the program carried on in the National Capital
Parks during the CCC operation.
Restoration of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
One of the major park accomplishments in which the CCC played an
important part, was the restoration of a 22-mile sector of the
Chesapeake Ohio Canal. After having been permanently abandoned in 1924,
the canal was purchased by the Federal Government in 1938 for
$2,000,000. Two CCC Camps were established along the Chesapeake and Ohio
Canal, and a total of $98,910.22 was allotted for CCC work on the Canal.
CCC boys were employed in the general restoration of the canal from
Georgetown, D. C. to Seneca, Maryland. The reconstructed 22-mile sector
was officially opened for the public on August 17, 1940. [104] The lower level of the canal in Georgetown
had already been in use in 1939.
In accomplishing the reconstruction and restoration of the canal
from Georgetown to Seneca, Maryland, CCC boys were usually employed in
general repair and maintenance work. They had to re-excavate major
portions of the canal ditch. Since abandonment of canal operations in
1924, the ditch had become filled with earth, sandbars, logs, and trees.
All this was removed by CCC workers. In addition, the boys were employed
in rebuilding a wide towpath. The actual construction of locks,
lockgates, and lockhouses was carried on by workers employed by means of
WPA funds.
Preparatory to the restoration of the canal, historians T. Sutton
Jett and Rogers Young, under the direction of the Branch of History of
the National Park Service, made an extensive study of the history of the
canal. When the Government acquired the canal all of the original
records of the Canal Company were deposited in the National Archives. By
means of a thorough study of these original records, historians Jett and
Young were able to give expert advice on many phases of the restoration
of the canal. The entire restoration of the canal was planned to be
historically accurate.
Basic to restoration is the task of historical research. This
research is but the first step in a series. Specialists in planning and
design are needed to give their valuable suggestions, as well as
engineers and architects with their technical advice and skill. All
these specialists must cooperate, so that the result will be a
successful restoration. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal was an example of
this cooperation. Preparatory to the construction of a bridge, spillway,
or lock, the historian would gather and evaluate the historical data on
the subject. Experts in planning and design would then give advice as to
the best way to effect this construction and restoration. Engineers and
architects would be needed to lend their technical advice. Finally,
actual construction would be undertaken. The result was the construction
and restoration of locks, spillways, and lock houses along the canal,
all conforming as closely as possible to those of the original
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal when in actual operation.
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Restoration Work on Lock 16 of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
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Construction and Repair
During the past 18 years, the Construction and Repair Division has
effected numerous improvements within the National Capital Parks. Owing
to the magnitude of the park system, construction and repair work
encompasses a wide variety of assignments calling for constant vigilance
on the part of park officials. Under the supervision of George Clark,
since July 1932, this division has maintained present structures and
built new roads, trails, buildings, structures, utilities, and countless
other facilities in the park system. Since the Mount Vernon Memorial
Highway has been under the jurisdiction of National Capital Parks,
continual construction and repair work has been necessary to maintain
its present condition. Many of the bridges, which add to the
attractiveness of Rock Creek Park were constructed by the employees of
the Construction and Repair Division. Recently, the Mall roads were
considerably improved including the extension of Madison Drive between
7th and 9th Streets. [105]
Few of the dedications, ceremonies, or events in the park areas are
completed without the services of park construction craftsmen and
laborers. Maintenance of the many miles of roads within the National
Capital Parks alone constitutes a large task. In addition to its general
work, the Construction and Repair Division operates the Arlington
Memorial Bridge and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. Construction and
repair work is vital to the successful operation of the park system. It
requires the services of a large number of craftsmen and laborers, who
play an important part in the operation of all park systems.
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A Roads and Trails Project in Rock Creek
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Horticultural Work
Horticultural work is also a phase of park work, which received
considerable attention. The Horticulture and Maintenance Division
supervises all day labor, construction, maintenance of all horticultural
features of the parks. An important feature of any park system is the
proper adornment of flowering plants, shrubery, and trees. Horticultural
work has always been an important phase of work in National Capital
Parks. It was the Horticultural Division that maintained the extensive
park greenhouses. Recent important developments displaying the work of
the Horticulturists include the development of the grounds adjacent to
the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, treatment of grounds at Dupont Circle,
and the development of the State Department triangle. [106] The work of the division in combating the
dread Dutch Elm Disease may be considered an achievement even though
this fight is still in progress. The first case of Dutch Elm disease in
parks was found on May 29, 1947 by Plant Pathologist Horace V. Wester,
while on a routine inspection tour south of the Lincoln Memorial. [107] Since that time, the Horticulture Division
in cooperation with other government agencies has waged continuous
warfare against this serious danger to the Elm growth of the National
Capital.
United States Park Police
Park protection is a necessary and major function of the National
Capital Parks office. The United States Park Police, composed of a
relatively small force of expertly trained men, is the park protection
force for the Nation's Capital. Since the parks are controlled by the
Federal Government, it is natural that they be policed by Federal
authorities. Officially called the United States Park Police by act of
Congress of December 5, 1919, the Park Police force has steadily risen
to one of the best trained police forces in the Nation. The act of May
27, 1924 (435 Stat. 175), provided that the United States Park Police
force was under exclusive charge and control of the Officer in Charge of
Public Buildings and Grounds and consisted of one officer detailed from
the War Department, one lieutenant, one first sergeant, five sergeants,
and 54 privates. [108] The present Park
Police force is approximately three times as large as it was in 1924;
while the area to be protected, is almost eight times as large as it was
in 1924. [109] This illustrates the fact
that one park policemen is now charged with the responsibility of
patroling a more extensive area.
It is necessary that each park policeman be a resourceful and
relentless guardian of public property and public welfare. In addition
to regular police training, the park policemen must be thoroughly
familiar with park regulations. Since the majority of violations in the
parks are infractions of park regulations rather then ordinary crimes,
park policemen have developed an attitude of courtesy and helpfulness.
Since out-of-town visitors are often unfamiliar with park regulations,
park policemen frequently issue courtesy warnings for minor park
violations. While this requires additional effort on the part of the
officer, it has brought many favorable responses from park visitors.
However, if the need arises, the park policeman is a vigorous and stern
guardian of the law. The history of the Park Police is filled with the
solutions of many major crimes committed in the parks. Through the
years, members of the United States Park Police force have brought
distinction upon themselves and their office by their many
commendations. Besides providing complete protection for the entire
National Capital Parks, the Park Police furnishes police escorts for the
President of the United States, and furnishes supplemental police
protection, when requested, at the White House.
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The United States Park Police. "The City's Finest"
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Park Use
National Capital Parks takes pride in the fine record of park use.
Since the parks are established for the enjoyment of the public, it is
gratifying to park officials to witness a steady increase in park use.
As the urban population grows, park use will become even more
intensified. In a single year, millions make use of the National Capital
Parks. The bulk of the facilities and forces are devoted to providing
for these uncounted millions of park patrons who make use of Rock Creek
Park, Great Falls, Maryland, Fort Washington, Fort Hunt, the Mall, Mount
Vernon Memorial Highway, Anacostia Park, the Washington Monument
grounds, and other areas throughout the city's metropolitan area. [110]
Supervision of Park Events
Park use covers a wide variety of activities. In the National
Capital Parks there are facilities for all types of sports. Hundreds of
thousands of park patrons enjoy the parks as a retreat for themselves
and their families from the tensions of modern urban living. The number
of park users engaged in passive recreation is extremely large. An
outstanding type of park use, which has greatly increased during the
years 1933-1951, is the attendance at special events and celebrations
held in the parks. The arrangements for all events and celebrations held
in the parks are in charge of the Special Assistant to the
Superintendent.
The Watergate Concerts, the traditional Cherry Blossom Festival, the
Fourth of July Celebration, the President's Cup Regatta, and several
important parades are included among the annual events held in the
National Capital Parks. Of these, the Watergate Concert was originated
since 1933. The Watergate programs, which have become so popular in the
National Capital, first started in 1935. [111] The first series of outdoor concerts at
the Watergate represented a collaborative project of various Government
agencies. The first series of performances at the Watergate was
sponsored by National Capital Parks. The Navy Department supplied the
barge for the orchestra background, and the District Emergency Relief
Administration administered the work project and supplied the labor. [112] The National Symphony orchestra, a
non-profit organization, contributed two-thirds of the cost of the
project, while the remaining expenses were met by the cooperating
Government agencies. [113] Since that time,
the National Symphony, service bands, opera companies, and other musical
aggregations have used the Watergate.
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The Celebration for Admiral Nimitz
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National Community Christmas Tree
The lighting of the National Community Christmas Tree on the White
House grounds is a unique event in the National Capital Parks. The first
tree was a fir cut from the Green Mountains, and presented to President
Calvin Coolidge in 1923 by President Paul D. Moody, of Middleburg
College, Middleburg, Vermont. [114] After
lighting the Christmas tree, the President of the United States sends
his Christmas greeting across the Nation. Although the ceremony itself
is brief, considerable planning on the part of the Committee precedes
the event. It has become one of the friendliest services held in the
parks.
Memorial Services
Hundreds of memorial services are held in the parks. Services are
held annually at the Lincoln Museum in commemoration of the birth of
Abraham Lincoln and on the anniversary of his tragic assassination. The
first anniversary celebration of Lincoln's birth on February 12, 1942
was made the occasion for the Lincoln Museum exhibition of a collection
of relics intimately connected with the assassination. The single shot
Derringer pistol used by the assassin John Wilkes Booth, the assassin's
personal diary and many other relics held in the possession of the Judge
Advocate General, United States Army were loaned to the Museum for an
indefinite period. [115] Memorial services
at the various statues, memorials, and monuments constitute a particular
phase of park use.
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Fourth of July Celebration
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Great Falls, Maryland
Great Falls, Maryland is an area of intense park use. Located about
15 miles from Washington, Great Falls of the Potomac constitutes a
scenic and historic attraction in National Capital Parks. Visitation to
this relatively small area is extremely high, numbering in the thousands
on weekends. Visitors to the Great Falls area may see the thundering
falls and walk along the restored portion of the Chesapeake and Ohio
Canal. The historical importance of the area is graphically described in
the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Museum, which was opened to the public in
the summer of 1951. The Museum is located in the recently restored Great
Falls Tavern. A short distance from the Tavern is a Naturalist trailside
exhibit, containing numerous interesting exhibits of the flora and fauna
of the area. The completion of the restoration of the Great Falls
Tavern, installation of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Museum, and
completion of the Naturalist trailside exhibit mark important recent
improvements and additions to the parks. [116]
Another type of park use centers about the many dedications held
within the National Capital Parks. From 1933 to 1951, numerous
dedications have taken place. Some of these dedications mark extremely
important accomplishments of the office. A few of the important
dedications occurring during the last 18 years include the following:
the bathing pools and field houses at Banneker Recreation Center and
Takoma Park Recreation Center were dedicated and opened to the public on
June 23, 1934 with appropriate ceremonies. [117] Groundbreaking ceremonies for the Second
Division Memorial were held on September 14, 1935. The Calvert Street
Bridge was dedicated on December 19, 1935. [118] The exercises marking this concrete
achievement were marked by a parade of over 2000 participants and the
presence of a large crowd. The Lanston Golf Course was dedicated and
opened to play on June 11, 1939. [119]
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Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Museum
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Thomas Jefferson Memorial
One of the most prominent dedications in recent years was that of
the Thomas Jefferson Memorial on the two hundredth anniversary of
Jefferson's birth, April 13, 1943. [120] The
location of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial followed the design of the
McMillan Commission of 1901. Preparatory to the construction and
creation of the Memorial, a Thomas Jefferson Memorial Commission was
authorized by act of Congress on June 26, 1934. [121] As it may be said of all major
developments in the National Capital, action started with Congress. A
Commission was organized, and National Capital Parks was designated to
take care of the administrative and fiscal obligations of this
commission.
The architect of the Jefferson Memorial was John Russell Pope, who
was influenced by Jefferson's own taste in architecture. Consequently,
the style followed that which Jefferson himself had used in the design
of the Virginia State Capitol, his home at Monticello and the rotunda at
the University of Virginia. When the Memorial was first dedicated, a
full size plaster model of the Jefferson Statue was put in place on its
pedestal in the Memorial. The statue was the work of the sculptor
Rudolph Evans, a native of Washington. The plaster model was replaced
with a permanent bronze statue in the Spring of 1947. [122]
Jose Artigas Statue
The dedication of the statue of Jose Artigas, which was erected on
Constitution avenue at 18th Street, took place on June 19, 1950. This
statue was presented to the United States by the people and especially
the school children of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay. The Uruguayan
architect of the statue was Mario Paysse Reyes. The American
architectural firm of Harbeson, Hough, Livingston, and Larson designed
the pedestal. The movement to present the statue of General Artigas was
initiated in 1940 and completed in 1942. It was an officer of the
Uruguayan Army, Edgardo Ubaldo Genta, who conceived the idea of donating
a bronze statue of the Uruguayan National hero to the United States in
keeping with a plan to exchange bronze statues of heroes among the
American republics. On October 29, 1948, the Commission of Fine Arts
selected reservation 110 for the Artigas Statue. Other prominent
dedications of statuary which have taken place since 1933 include the
William Jennings Bryan, NavyMarine, Artemas Ward, and the Marconi
Statues.
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Navy-Marine Memorial
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Arlington Memorial Bridge Plaza Statuary
The most impressive dedication of 1951 was that of the Four
Equestrian Statues for the Arlington Memorial Bridge Plaza. Arrangements
for the casting of these statues in Italy were agreed to by National
Capital Parks Associate Superintendent Harry Thompson and Italian
Government officials. These four monumental equestrian statues, cast in
Italy as a gift to the people of the United States from the people of
Italy, were appropriately dedicated on September 26, 1951. [123] The four statues, portraying the "Arts of
War" and the "Arts of Peace" and mounted on the Plaza of Arlington
Memorial Bridge, complete the sculptured embellishments for the imposing
Memorial Bridge. [124] Designed and modeled
by American sculptors, they were cast in bronze and surfaced with pure
gold by Italian artisans. Each statue has been given a symbolic name.
The groups symbolizing the "Arts of Peace" sculptured by James Fraser
stand at the entrance to the Rock Creek Parkway. On the east is "Music
and Harvest;" on the west of the entrance is "Aspiration and
Literature." The two statues symbolizing the "Arts of War" sculptured by
Leo Friedlander stand at the entrance to the Arlington Memorial Bridge.
On the east is "Valor," while on the west side is "Sacrifice." The
inscriptions carved into the mounting piers of all the groups serve as a
permanent record of the origin of the statues and their completion. [125]
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Arlington Memorial Bridge Plaza Statuary
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Interpretation
Interpretation has become an important phase of park work in the
National Capital. It is one thing for the visitor to see historical
monuments and areas of natural beauty. It is something different to have
trained historians and naturalists explain the historical significance
and natural history of these monuments and areas. Interpretation, an
important part of all National Park Service areas, plays a vital role in
filling the minds of young and old with a real appreciation of our
National parks as areas of historical importance and natural beauty.
An intensive program of interpretation is carried on by both the
Naturalist and Historical divisions. The field of natural history
interpretation features guided trips to park areas; a school assembly
program, which initiates the young to fascinating stories of living
creatures, plants, and geological features found in the Washington area;
an adult nature leadership course; a junior naturalist training course;
nature consultation at day camps; and a popular and informative lecture
series. The historical program of interpretation includes on-the-scene
interpretation at the National Monuments, Memorials, and Museums of
National Capital Parks; historical walks to the various memorials and
historic sites in Washington; a school assembly program instilling the
youth with a greater knowledge and appreciation of the parks and of
American history; a special out-of-town school program featuring
historical talks at the Lincoln Museum and the showing of an orientation
film on the National Capital; and conducted historical tours for various
foreign visitors to the United States for the State Department.
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A Naturalist At Work
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Planning
Planning occupies a place of prime importance in the National
Capital Parks. From the time of the McMillan Park Commission of 1901,
park planning has received more and more attention. The beauty and
attractiveness of the parks results in great part because of the long
range planning, which preceded the development of particular park areas.
Today, the Planning division prepares all advance planning programs in
the National Capital Parks. In the all important work of planning, this
division cooperates and works with the other divisions of the office.
The Division also collaborates with the Bureau of Public Roads on major
roads and parkways. It coordinates all phases of planning and
development with the District of Columbia, National Capital Park and
Planning Commission, and other Federal Government agencies. The work of
the Planning Division has become extremely complex. Whenever any project
is planned in the National Capital Parks, the Planning division must
contact numerous organizations and agencies, which might be directly or
indirectly concerned with the project.
Rehabilitation of Small Parks
Since 1933, many outstanding developments have been effected in the
National Capital Parks. Careful planning has played a significant role
in these developments, as it is playing a vital role in projects for
future development. One of the early important achievements in park
development was a large-scale rehabilitation of smaller parks. At the
turn of the twentieth century many of the small reservations were not
parks in the modern sense. They were rather formal gardens done in the
old world manner and featuring horticultural displays. They were
beautiful areas and added a distinctiveness to the Capital city. The
rapid population growth and increase in park use brought about by the
first World War soon made their maintenance and protection impractical
as well as expensive. In bringing about the transformation of these
smaller areas, work was undertaken under PWA and WPA authorization in
the beginning of the depression years. The project involved the
redesigning of three of the major small parks Lafayette,
Franklin, and Folger, and more than 100 circles, triangles, and squares.
Its completion in 1938 marked one of the major accomplishments of the
National Capital Parks during the Emergency period. In achieving the
rehabilitation of these small parks, circles, and triangles in the
National Capital, park officials recaptured the charm of the old
Washington and took an important step toward the perpetuation of that
charm for the enjoyment of future generations. [126]
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A Historical Walk
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Carter Barron Memorial Amphitheater
A recent accomplishment in National Capital Parks was the completion
of the Carter T. Barron Amphitheater in Rock Creek Park. First used for
the staging of the Paul Green symphonic drama "Faith of Our Fathers,"
the amphitheater is designed to become a major park facility when the
drama is no longer in production. [127]
Located amid the beautiful surroundings of Rock Creek Park, the
Amphitheater will be the ideal setting for various public interest
programs. The Amphitheater is an excellent example of coordination of
the Planning Division with several other divisions of the office. The
architects, landscape architects, and engineers worked closely together
to achieve a plan and complete an impressive structure amid the proper
natural setting.
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Carter Barron Memorial Amphitheater
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George Washington Memorial Parkway
Much has been accomplished in the field of parkways. Progress was
made on the George Washington Memorial Parkway. In 1950 the Spout Run
connection of the parkway between Key Bridge and Lorcom Lane was
completed and opened to traffic. This divided parkway a mile in length,
now provides a continuous memorial drive from the Mount Vernon estate to
the Lee Highway Lorcom Lane connection. [128] Eventually, the George Washington Memorial
Parkway will connect Fort Washington and Great Falls of the Potomac.
Baltimore-Washington Parkway
Progress on the 18.5 mile Federal stretch of the
Baltimore-Washington Parkway is also being made, On August 3, 1950,
legislation was approved placing the Parkway from Washington to Fort
Meade under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service with authority
to proceed with construction. [129] As the
local field office of the National Park Service, National Capital Parks
was given jurisdiction over the project with the Bureau of Public Roads
doing the construction. Nine of the 17 masonry overpasses and
underpasses that eventually will be built from Washington to Jessup are
now under construction as well as the bridge over the Patuxent river
near the Annapolis road junction. [130] It
is hoped that the important project may be completed in 1953.
Recently, the Public Housing Administration transferred Greenbelt
Park, an area of 1148 acres adjacent to the town of Greenbelt and the
Baltimore-Washington Parkway, to the National Capital Parks office, The
importance of this transfer cannot be over-emphasized. Tentative plans
for the development of the park include an 18-hole golf course, practice
driving ranges, miniature golf, wildlife preserves and other features
which will serve both parkway travelers and residents of the
northwest Washington metropolitan area. [131]
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Parkway
Plans have been made for the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Parkway. A
joint study made by the National Park Service and the Bureau of Public
Roads concerning the feasibility of constructing a parkway along the
right-of-way of the Federally-owned Chesapeake and Ohio Canal was
completed in 1950. [132] On the basis of a
favorable report to Congress, now available as House Document No. 687,
81st Congress, legislation was passed authorizing acceptance of land for
use in connection with the project. [133]
The Parkway is planned to follow the route of the canal from Great Falls
to Cumberland, Md. The scenic, historic, and general recreational
possibilities of this parkway are numerous. By means of the parkway, the
public would be afforded access to many areas of natural beauty and
historical significance. Some of these areas include the restored
section of the Canal from Georgetown to Seneca, Md., the Great Falls of
the Potomac, the proposed Harper's Ferry historical site, the Antietam
National Battle field, and many other recreational areas.
Forts Drive
Plans for the encircling Forts Drive have also received attention
from both the Planning division of the National Capital Parks and the
National Capital Park and Planning Commission. The commission is
gradually acquiring land that will someday be used in the Forts Drive
project. Forts Drive is intended to be a high speed "ring" road,
distributing traffic on radial routes and handling circumferential
traffic in the city. Not only will this project be important as a
traffic control measure, but it shall afford the public an excellent
scenic and historic drive. Along its route are many of the Civil War
forts and batteries. These several preserved forts of the defenses of
Washington remain as visible evidence of the great effort taken to
protect the National Capital during the Civil War. [134] At the end of the War in April of 1865,
the defenses of Washington consisted of 68 enclosed forts and 93 manned
batteries. [135] Individual inquiries and a
large attendance at the historical tour of the Civil War defenses
indicates that there is considerable interest in these historic
fortifications. Anacostia Park, an area of increasing park use, has
received considerable attention, Fort Dupont Park, nearby, is another
area under park development. This park is a rugged area extending high
into the hills guarding the Anacostia river. It offers opportunity for
development similar to Rock Creek Park. Providing both natural beauties
and recreational possibilities, the area is destined to receive future
park development. [136] Both of these parks
will receive greater park use as the population expands.
Important features of the Parks System
The parks of the Nation's Capital are known and
admired throughout the World. One of the principal features of the park
system is its association with historic and beautiful streams. A large
part of the park system is bordered by the historic Potomac and
Anacostia rivers. Visitors are impressed by continuous drives bordered
by shade trees. They find inspiration in the stately public buildings,
memorials, and beautiful vistas of forestbordered streams. [137] Long-range planning on the part of park
officials has made these impressions a reality.
Capper-Crampton Act
The significance of the Capper-Crampton act to the development of the
Capital's parks cannot be overemphasized. By means of this act,
advance land purchase and landing powers were given to the National
Capital Park and Planning Commission. Because of the Capper-Crampton act
the National Capital Parks has kept pace with the increase in park use.
Maryland has benefited from the act. The State of Virginia is now
beginning to realize the possibilities. The Capper-Crampton act has made
possible the acquisition of large tracts of land, destined for future
park development. With park lands increasing, planners envision the need
for more city and regional parks, more playgrounds, and parkways and
inner-ring roads to lessen the traffic congestion.
It is a tribute to the planning and foresight of park officials that
the National Capital Parks has kept abreast of the growing needs of the
community and Nation. The National Capital Parks serves the needs of the
citizens of the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia, and
millions of citizens of the other States and foreign countries, who
annually visit the Nation's Capital. The parks are extensively used for
the benefit and enjoyment of all the people. [138] To insure the National character of the
parks, they have remained under Federal control for 160 years.
An Evaluation
Washington is a city of magnificent parks. The official assessed
valuation of National Capital Parks makes it one of the most valuable
park systems of the World. [139] The entire
value of the park system cannot be measured in monetary terms alone. It
contributes to the mental and physical welfare of the countless millions
who avail themselves of its benefits. National Capital Parks today
stands ready to meet the needs of a growing community and Nation.
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