Chevy Chase was one of the first planned streetcar suburbs in the Washington area, developed in the 1890s by Senator Francis Newlands as a residential community at the end of the Connecticut Avenue line. These posts trace the neighborhood from its origins as a real estate speculation to its current status as one of DC’s most desirable addresses.
Take a look inside the sanctuary of the Chevy Chase Presbyterian Church in 1924 with this photo from Shorpy. See the historic interior of the church and click on the photo for greater detail.
Check out this amazing map of Chevy Chase, Section 2 from 1890. Discover the history of this incredible place with us at the Library of Congress!
A 1929 whoopee party in Chevy Chase turned deadly when William Francis Mudd was killed by a blow to the skull. Read the full Washington Post account.
Ever wonder what a $500 down payment in 1911 Chevy Chase would be worth today? Find out in this blog post, and learn why Chevy Chase ain’t cheap!
Ah, kids will be kids. Even your grandparents and great-grandparents were kids once, and they too got themselves into trouble. Read about this wild flapper-era “whoopee” party in Chevy Chase and a burlesque show at the Strand Theater in downtown Washington, D.C.
Learn about Joe Judge, Washington’s first baseman for almost 18 seasons starting in 1915 up until 1932. Joe was a fine ball player, batting .300 or higher in nine seasons and set a number of American League records. Read about his career and his embrace of the city of Washington.
Explore the development of Chevy Chase in Washington, D.C. in 1918, just after Armistice Day. Discover the new homes, rising prices, and the impact of the war on the area with this exploration of Fulton R. Gordon’s plans for the area.
Take a trip to the far reaches of the District and learn about 3 things you didn’t know happened at Chevy Chase Circle: a tragic suicide, a cricket match, and a tornado!
