Georgetown is blessed with four major parks within its boundaries: Rose Park, Montrose Park, Volta Park and the Georgetown Waterfront. Together they make up an emerald necklace strung around Georgetown’s historic homes. In GM’s opinion, they are among the top two or three reasons to live in Georgetown.
But which of them is the best?
Rose Park
Photo by Digitaldetection.
Rose Park is located on the eastern boundary of Georgetown between P St. and M St. It is owned by the city and administered by the DC Parks and Recreation department. Of the four parks, it probably has the most interesting history. Located as it is near the center of the historic Herring Hill neighborhood, Rose Park was a treasured resource of Georgetown’s African American population. It was founded in 1918 by the Ancient Order of the Sons and Daughters of Moses to serve the area’s African American children. Throughout its history it was known as Patterson’s Park, Jacob’s Park, or Winship’s Lot. While officially designated for Blacks only, the park was always a de facto integrated park, used by residents of all races.
Today Rose Park continues to be very popular. It offers:
- A long and narrow grassy area used mostly for dog walking, picnics, and small ball games like bocce.
- Three of the best (but most crowded) tennis courts in Georgetown
- Full basketball court
- Large playground
- Little league park
- Summer full of events
- A Friends of Rose Park group
- A summer farmers market every Wednesday
All and all a solid entry. What have the others got? Continue reading →