Picture this a bustling neighborhood in Arlington Virginia. This is Cherrydale. Its story begins long before its current charm. In 1893 a post office opened. It was named Cherrydale after Dorsey Donaldson’s vast cherry orchard. His orchard lay behind what’s now the oldest operating firehouse in Northern Virginia. That firehouse a testament to community spirit was built in 1919. Construction began during the Spanish Flu pandemic. Despite the devastating illness the volunteers persevered. They built the firehouse using donated materials and volunteer labor. The building stands today a symbol of resilience and community.
The Cherrydale Volunteer Fire Department CVFD wasn’t just about putting out fires. It was a cornerstone of the community. It was the first officially organized fire department in Arlington County. Imagine the early days. The firefighters were all volunteers. They responded to emergencies with limited resources. Their dedication built a strong foundation for the neighborhood’s safety.
Cherrydale’s growth accelerated after the Civil War. The arrival of the Great Falls and Old Dominion Railway Line in 1906 spurred development. This railway line though abandoned in 1935 left behind Old Dominion Drive. The road serves as a reminder of Cherrydale’s history. The neighborhood flourished. Subdivisions popped up. Businesses opened along Lee Highway. The area evolved from a rural crossroads into a thriving community.
The architectural styles reflect this evolution. You’ll find Queen Anne homes Colonial Revivals and bungalows. Sears Roebuck and Company mail-order houses dot the streets. They are a testament to the popularity of prefabricated homes. Even a unique Lustron house stands out. Its porcelain-enameled steel panels are a glimpse into mid-20th-century architectural trends. Each building tells a story. Each one contributes to Cherrydale’s rich tapestry.
The heart of Cherrydale beats at the intersection known as Five Points. Quincy Street Military Road and Old Dominion Road converge here. Lee Highway bisects this vital point. Dorothy Hamm Middle School sits near this central hub. This crossroads was once a quiet rural spot. Now it’s the lively center of Cherrydale.
Today Cherrydale thrives. It’s a place where history and modernity coexist. The community spirit that built the firehouse during a pandemic is still alive. It’s visible in the well-preserved architecture and the residents’ dedication. It’s in the very fabric of Cherrydale. Explore this unique neighborhood. Discover its fascinating stories.