Greenbelt

Greenbelt, Maryland, is a city with a rich history that reflects broader themes in American urban planning and social policy. Here is a detailed history of Greenbelt, Maryland:

Founding and Early History

Creation as a New Deal Project:

• Greenbelt was one of three "Green Towns" planned and built by the United States government during the Great Depression, under President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal. The idea was to provide affordable housing and jobs while also promoting community living.
• The project was overseen by the Resettlement Administration, headed by Rexford G. Tugwell. It was intended to be a model of suburban planning, integrating green spaces and cooperative living.
• Greenbelt was officially incorporated on June 1, 1937.

Planning and Design:

• The city was designed by a team of architects and planners led by Hale Walker, Douglas Ellington, and Clarence Stein. The design emphasized pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods, with homes arranged in superblocks connected by pathways.
• The design also included cooperative businesses and services, such as a cooperative grocery store, nursery school, and newspaper.

Mid-20th Century Developments

World War II and Post-War Growth:

• During World War II, Greenbelt’s population grew as workers moved to the area to work in nearby Washington, D.C., and at military installations.
• After the war, Greenbelt expanded beyond its original boundaries. Private developers added new subdivisions, diversifying the city’s architecture and population.

Civil Rights Movement:

• Greenbelt was initially a segregated community, like many American towns at the time. However, by the late 20th century, it became more diverse and inclusive.
• In the 1960s and beyond, Greenbelt engaged in civil rights activities, and its cooperative institutions played a role in fostering community dialogue and progress.

Modern Era

Becoming a Modern Suburb:

• Today, Greenbelt is a suburb of Washington, D.C., part of the larger Washington metropolitan area. It has maintained much of its original green space and community-oriented planning.
• The city is known for its commitment to preserving its historical character and for its active community organizations, like the Greenbelt Cooperative Publishing Association and the Greenbelt Museum.

Historical Recognition:

• In 1997, the original section of Greenbelt, known as Old Greenbelt, was designated a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its significance as a model planned community.
• The Greenbelt Museum, established in 1987, preserves and interprets the history of the city and offers tours of an original Greenbelt home.

Important Landmarks

Roosevelt Center:

• The heart of Old Greenbelt, the Roosevelt Center, remains a vibrant community hub with a theater, cooperative grocery, and various shops.

Greenbelt Lake and Park:

• Greenbelt Park is a large forested area managed by the National Park Service, providing recreational opportunities and preserving natural habitats.

Greenbelt Community Center:

• Originally the elementary school, it now serves as a community center hosting events, classes, and cultural activities.

Greenbelt, Maryland, remains a testament to innovative urban planning and a community-focused lifestyle, reflecting its New Deal origins while evolving with contemporary challenges and opportunities.