Washington Park is a small, picturesque town located in Beaufort County, North Carolina. The town has a rich history dating back to the early 1700s when it was founded by European settlers.
The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Pamlico and Coree. In the late 1600s, European explorers arrived in the area, and in 1705, a group of Swiss and German immigrants established the first permanent settlement in the region.
Washington Park was established in the early 1900s as a summer resort community for families from nearby cities. The town was designed as a “streetcar suburb,” meaning that it was developed along a streetcar line that ran from the nearby city of Washington.
The park itself was originally a privately-owned amusement park known as “Sandy Beach,” which opened in 1915. The park featured a large dance pavilion, a roller skating rink, a swimming pool, and a boardwalk. It quickly became a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
In the early 1920s, a group of investors led by J.B. Sparrow purchased Sandy Beach with the intention of turning it into a residential community. They renamed the park “Washington Park” and began selling lots for homes. The new community was designed to be a year-round resort, with wide streets, large lots, and plenty of green space.
Many of the homes in Washington Park were built in the Colonial Revival style, which was popular at the time. The homes featured large front porches, symmetrical facades, and decorative details such as columns and pediments. Some of the homes were designed by well-known architects, including William Lawrence Bottomley and Herbert C. Hunter.
During World War II, Washington Park was home to a Navy air station, which played a key role in the war effort. The air station was used to train pilots and to test new aircraft. After the war, the air station was decommissioned, and the land was returned to the town.
Today, Washington Park is a thriving community with a population of around 400 residents. The town has retained much of its historic charm, with many of the original homes and buildings still standing. In recent years, the town has become a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the town’s scenic waterfront, charming downtown, and historic architecture.
One of the most popular attractions in Washington Park is the waterfront park, which features a fishing pier, boat ramp, and picnic areas.
In conclusion, Washington Park, North Carolina, has a fascinating history that dates back over 300 years. From its origins as a small settlement on the Pamlico River to its transformation into a bustling resort community in the early 1900s, Washington Park has played an important role in the history of Beaufort County and the state of North Carolina. Today, the town is a vibrant community that celebrates its rich history while embracing the future. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a charming place to visit, Washington Park has something for everyone.