Thirty-eight acres of shimmering water. That’s Lake Artemesia. Nestled within the Lake Artemesia Natural Area it’s a surprising oasis in Prince George’s County Maryland. Did you know this beautiful lake wasn’t always here? Its creation is a fascinating tale of urban development and unexpected beauty.
Lake Artemesia has a rich history. Long before the lake as we know it existed a smaller lake was already here. It was created in the mid-1800s. Stone was quarried from the area for the B&O Railroad’s Washington Branch line. This original lake even had a name Lake Artemesia. It was named after Artemesia N Drefs’ mother and grandmother. Artemesia herself later donated land for preservation.
The lake we see today is a product of the Washington Metro’s Green Line construction. In the late 1980s sand and gravel were needed. The construction crews found a solution. They excavated the area around the existing lake. They used the material to build rail beds and parking lots. This created the larger Lake Artemesia. The Metro saved ten million dollars. They spent eight million dollars creating the natural area. This repaired the excavation damage. During construction the site was even called Lake Metro.
The surrounding natural area is a haven for nature lovers. It boasts aquatic gardens fishing piers and miles of trails. The trails are part of the Anacostia Tributary Trail System and the East Coast Greenway. Imagine strolling along the paths. You can take in the beauty of the lake. Listen to the birdsong. Feel the breeze on your face. The park is a testament to thoughtful urban planning. It repurposed a construction site into a beautiful natural space.
Lake Artemesia’s history is intertwined with the Lakeland community. This African-American community once occupied a third of the park’s site. They were displaced when College Park annexed the area in 1945. The park stands as a reminder of this community’s legacy. It’s a place where history nature and community come together. So next time you see Lake Artemesia remember its unique story. It’s a tale of transformation preservation and the beauty that can emerge from unexpected places.