Maywood Historic District
Nestled in the northern reaches of Arlington County, Virginia, the Maywood Historic District serves as a living museum of early 20th-century residential development. Spanning 46 acres, this neighborhood captures a pivotal era of urban expansion, blending diverse architectural influences with the industrial growth of the region.
The Origins of Maywood
The development of the Maywood area was catalyzed by the arrival of the Great Falls and Old Dominion Railroad in 1906. This transportation link—which later became the Great Falls Division of the Washington and Old Dominion Railway—made the land accessible and attractive for residential growth.
Between 1909 and 1913, the area was systematically platted and subdivided into five distinct sections. While the groundwork was laid early in the century, the majority of the neighborhood's primary development occurred between 1909 and 1929, creating a cohesive community of early American suburban design.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Architectural Diversity and Design
The district is renowned for its eclectic mix of dwelling styles, reflecting the popular tastes of the Late Victorian and Late 19th and 20th Century Revival periods. The neighborhood features 198 contributing buildings, which are structures that retain their historic integrity and contribute to the district's overall character.
Prominent Architectural Styles
- Queen Anne: Known for its asymmetrical shapes and ornate detailing.
- Colonial Revival Foursquares: Characterized by a boxy, two-story shape and symmetrical facades.
- Bungalow: Low-profile, cozy homes typical of the early 20th century.
- Two-story Gable-front houses: Classic residential designs with a prominent triangular wall at the front.
Interestingly, the district also contains several prefabricated mail-order houses, showcasing the early industrialization of home building where components were shipped by rail and assembled on-site.
Key Facts
- Location: Arlington, Virginia, bounded by Lorcom Ln., Spout Run Parkway, I-66, Lee Highway, N. Oakland St., N. Nelson St., and N. Lincoln St.
- Total Area: 46 acres (19 hectares).
- Contributing Buildings: 198 residential structures.
- Primary Development Era: 1909 to 1929.
- Key Architect: J. Arthur Conner and others.
- Official Designations: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) and the Virginia Landmarks Register (VLR).
District Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| NRHP Reference No. | 03000460 |
| VLR Number | 000-5056 |
| Date Built | 1906 |
| NRHP Listing Date | May 22, 2003 |
| VLR Designation Dates | May 19, 2003; February 7, 2006 |
| Local Designation Date | July 7, 1990 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the development of the Maywood Historic District?
The arrival of the Great Falls and Old Dominion Railroad in 1906 provided the necessary infrastructure and accessibility that led to the platting and subdivision of the area starting in 1909.
How many historic buildings are in the district?
There are 198 contributing buildings within the residential neighborhood that maintain the historic character of the district.
What makes the housing in Maywood unique?
The district is unique for its variety of styles, ranging from Queen Anne and Colonial Revival to Bungalows, as well as the presence of prefabricated mail-order homes.
When was Maywood officially recognized as a historic site?
The Arlington County Board designated it a local historic district on July 7, 1990. It was later added to the Virginia Landmarks Register in May 2003 and the National Register of Historic Places on May 22, 2003.
Where exactly is the Maywood Historic District located?
It is located in Arlington, Virginia, and is roughly bounded by Lee Highway, I-66, Spout Run Parkway, Lorcom Ln., and the streets of N. Oakland, N. Nelson, and N. Lincoln.