“Can you believe this was once farmland?” Harry M. Martin saw potential where others saw fields. Welcome to Martin’s Additions. It is a village with a unique story. Let’s dive into the history of this special place.
In 1896, Harry M. Martin began buying land. He purchased parcels from the Chevy Chase Land Company and others. Martin called his acquisitions “Martin’s Additions to Chevy Chase.” His purchases stretched to where La Ferme Restaurant stands today. They also included the “No Gain” property. This property sits at Thornapple Street and Brookville Road.
Martin’s real estate career started with his brothers. They owned H. M. Martin and Co. The company was located in Washington, D.C. From 1904 to 1906, Martin bought land. This land was once part of the “No Gain” plantation. He divided it into four sections. These sections became “Martin’s Additions to Chevy Chase.”
Martin strategically marketed his subdivisions. He called them “additions” to Chevy Chase. This allowed him to capitalize on Chevy Chase’s reputation. He offered lots at lower prices than the Chevy Chase Land Company. This attracted middle-class federal employees. They sought quality housing near Washington, D.C.
Deeds from that time show Martin’s requirements. New homes had to cost at least $1750 to construct. The Chevy Chase Land Company had stricter rules. They required houses on Connecticut Avenue to cost at least $5000. Houses on side streets needed to cost $3000. Martin worked with local builders. These included Horace Troth and Albert N. Prentiss.
An advertisement from 1905 highlighted the benefits of Martin’s 3d Section. Lots ranged from 6000 to 12000 square feet. The ad boasted about the streetcar service. It also mentioned the beautiful setting and large trees. Good spring water was another selling point. The ad promised good land and bargains. Martin even offered to build homes for purchasers at cost.
In 1916, Maryland established a special taxing district. It was known as Martin’s First, Second, Third and Fourth Additions to the Village of Chevy Chase. This district had a Citizens’ Committee. The committee regulated things like farm animal behavior.
Concerns about development led residents to seek incorporation. A referendum was held. 92 percent of Martin’s Additions residents voted in favor. On March 19, 1985, Martin’s Additions officially became a village.
Today, Martin’s Additions is a thriving community. It features large single-family homes. These homes sit on beautifully landscaped lots. Architectural styles include Colonial Revival and Tudor Revival. The neighborhood is a historic district. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Martin’s Additions hosts community events like an annual Fourth of July parade. This village, born from farmland, continues to flourish. It balances history with a vibrant community spirit. It is a testament to Harry M. Martin’s vision.