Lyon Park Historic District: A Legacy of Architecture in Arlington

Lyon Park Historic District

Nestled in the heart of North Arlington, Virginia, the Lyon Park Historic District stands as a testament to early 20th-century urban planning and residential elegance. Developed by Frank Lyon, this upper-class neighborhood offers a glimpse into the architectural evolution of the region, blending diverse styles that reflect the tastes of different eras.

Key Facts

  • Location: Arlington County, Virginia, bounded by 10th St. N, Arlington Blvd., and N. Irving St.
  • Total Area: 284.4 acres (115.1 hectares).
  • Composition: 1,165 contributing buildings and 1 contributing site.
  • Development Period: Platted between 1919 and 1951.
  • Official Recognition: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) and the Virginia Landmarks Register (VLR).

Architectural Diversity and Development

The district's layout and growth began in 1919, with the area being platted over several decades until 1951. The architectural landscape is characterized by a rich variety of styles, showcasing the transition of American residential design during the first half of the century.

Early Influences and Queen Anne Style

Even before the formal platting of Lyon Park, several dwellings in the Queen Anne style—known for its eclectic ornamentation and asymmetrical shapes—were erected, providing a foundation for the neighborhood's historic character.

The Rise of Craftsman and Colonial Revival

As the neighborhood expanded, the 1920s brought an influx of Craftsman-style bungalows, which emphasized natural materials and handcrafted details. This was followed in the 1930s and 1940s by the Colonial Revival style, a movement that sought to evoke the symmetry and classical elements of early American colonial architecture.

[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]

Historical Designations

Due to its architectural integrity and historical significance, the district has received prestigious recognitions. It was designated as a Virginia Landmarks Register site on May 19, 2003, with further designations on March 10, 2008. On November 12, 2003, it was officially added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

Attribute Details
Developer/Architects Frank Lyon, Walter Sunderland, et al.
NRHP Reference No. 03000437
VLR Number 000-7820
Coordinates 38°52′45″N 77°5′26″W
Primary Styles Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Craftsman

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Lyon Park Historic District located?

It is located in Arlington County, Virginia, roughly bounded by 10th St. N, Arlington Blvd., and N. Irving St.

Who was responsible for the development of Lyon Park?

The district was developed by Frank Lyon, with architectural contributions from Walter Sunderland and others.

What types of architecture can be found in the district?

The neighborhood features a mix of Queen Anne dwellings, Craftsman-style bungalows from the 1920s, and Colonial Revival buildings from the 1930s and 1940s.

How many historic structures are within the district?

The district contains 1,165 contributing buildings and one contributing site.

When was Lyon Park added to the National Register of Historic Places?

The district was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places on November 12, 2003.

References

  1. "National Register Information System". National Register of Historic Places. National Park Service. July 9, 2010.
  2. "Virginia Landmarks Register". Virginia Department of Historic Resources. Retrieved May 12, 2013.
  3. Jana E. Riggle (June 2003). "National Register of Historic Places Inventory/Nomination: Lyon Park Historic District" (PDF). and Accompanying four photos and Accompanying map Archived 2012-09-26 at the Wayback Machine
  4. "000-7820 Lyon Park Historic District". dhr.virginia.gov. November 12, 2003. Retrieved January 25, 2022.