Rock Creek Park - History & Culture (U.S. National Park Service)

Rock Creek Park was founded in 1890 as one of the first federal parks. Its establishing legislation, cites the area’s natural beauty and high public value. When the park was established, it was on the edge of the growing city and was already a favorite area for rural re-treat. In the establishing legislation, Rock Creek Park was ‘dedicated and set apart as a public park or pleasure ground for the benefit and enjoyment of the people of the United States.” The park would "provide for the preservation from injury or spoliation of all timber, animals, or curiosities within said park, and their retention in their natural condition, as nearly as possible."

ROCK CREEK PARK, Prehistoric Landscapes of the Nation's Capital HTML

ROCK CREEK PARK, Historic Resource Study (1990) PDF (5.2 MB)

Archeology and History in Rock Creek Park HTML

National Park Service History

On forested hills surrounding the nation’s capital are the remnants of a complex system of Civil War fortifications. Built by Union forces, these strategic buttresses transformed the young capital into one of the world's most fortified cities. These forts remain as windows into the past in the midst of D.C.’s urban green space, offering recreational, cultural, and natural experiences.

Civil War Defenses of Washington

	It seems to me after out experience during this rebellion that a wise foresight will not permit us to allow the seat of government to become again entirely defenseless”
	Lieutenant Colonel Barton S. Alexander, Chief Engineer of Defenses 1865

Lieutenant Colonel Barton S. Alexander, Chief Engineer of Defenses 1865 Lieutenant Colonel Alexander's suggestions went unheeded and this circle of forts, known as the Civil War Defenses of Washington fell into disuse as the city developed and grew. Although many of the fortifications have crumbled away, their intriguing and compelling stories are very much a part of our national history as well as the local history of Washington, D.C.