Chevy Chase Village

Senator Newlands’ grand vision. That’s how Chevy Chase Village began. In the 1890s, Francis G. Newlands, along with William Stewart, envisioned a “home suburb” near the nation’s capital. Chevy Chase Village, located in Maryland, was part of this ambitious project. The name, possibly originating from the hunting grounds of the Cheviot Hills or the French term “chevauchee”, evokes a sense of history. Newlands and Stewart meticulously acquired land and established the Chevy Chase Land Company. Their plan? To create a picturesque community distinct from the crowded city. Chevy Chase Village was designed with broad streets, sidewalks, parks, and essential amenities. The absence of alleys further distinguished it from the urban landscape. Early life in Chevy Chase Village revolved around the streetcar line. It connected residents to work, school, and errands in the city. The streetcar even facilitated grocery and package deliveries to designated points along Connecticut Avenue. The streetcar also brought city dwellers and suburbanites together at Chevy Chase Lake. This artificial lake and amusement park offered picnics, fishing, carousel rides, and music. Today, Chevy Chase Village retains its intended character. The original farming roads are now well-traveled. Chevy Chase Lake exists as a small wooded area. Yet, the vision of Newlands and Stewart endures. Chevy Chase Village remains a peaceful, convenient community, separate from the city’s hustle and bustle. It stands as a testament to their foresight and planning. Chevy Chase Village even boasts some prominent residents. Author Ann Brashares, journalist Marvin Kalb, commentator Chris Matthews, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, Chief Justice John Roberts, and commentator George Will all call this village home. This affluent community boasts a median income exceeding $250,000 and a median home value of over $1.8 million.