Garrett Park is a town located in Montgomery County, Maryland. The land that now comprises the Park was originally part of a large tract of land known as the “Harrison Tract.” The land was purchased by John W. Garrett, the son of Robert W. Garrett, in 1898. John W. Garrett subsequently established the Garrett Park Company, which was responsible for the development of the town. John W. Garrett named the town after Robert W. Garrett, who was the president of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad from 1896 to 1904.
The Railroad’s Impact on the Park’s Growth as a Summer Vacation Destination
Garrett Park was primarily an agricultural community with a few scattered homes and businesses. In the late 1880s, the B&O Railroad arrived and built a train station in the area, which spurred the growth of the community. The railroad brought increased commerce and transportation opportunities to the area, and the Park soon became a popular stop along the rail line. (The train still runs through Garrett Park to this day.) In the early years of the town, the Park was primarily a summer vacation destination for people from Washington DC. Many wealthy families built vacation homes in the area, further boosting the local economy.
The town was officially incorporated in 1898, and it continued to grow throughout the early 20th century. The town was laid out in a grid pattern, with streets running north-south and east-west. The town’s central feature is its large grassy circle, which is surrounded by houses and provides a space for community events. In the 1920s, many of the town’s larger homes were built, and the community became a popular destination for Washington, D.C. residents seeking a quiet retreat from the city.
The Park’s Role in World War II
During World War II, the Park played a significant role in the war effort. The town’s railroad station was used as a hub for transporting troops and supplies to and from the capital, and many residents worked in the war effort in various capacities.
After the war, Garrett Park continued to evolve as a community. In the 1950s, the town experienced a wave of suburbanization, and many of the large estates were subdivided into smaller lots. The town’s population grew, and new schools and businesses were established.
Exploring the Natural Beauty and Architectural Treasures of Garrett Park
Today, Garrett Park is a small, close-knit community with a population of just over 1,000 people. The town is known for its historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and strong sense of community. In the 1970s it was designated as a historic place on the National Register of Historic Places.
The town is also home to several parks and nature preserves, including the Garrett Park Conservation Trust, which works to protect the town’s natural resources. The town has preserved many of its historic buildings and landmarks, including the B&O Railroad Station, which is now home to the Garrett Park Historical Society. The town is also known for its annual Labor Day parade and other community events.
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