Hidden among the neighborhoods of Congress Heights and Bellevue in Southeast Washington DC lies Shepherd Parkway. This is a national park. It boasts nearly 200 acres of woods Civil War forts and even rare microorganisms.
Shepherd Parkway has a fascinating history. It began in 1927 when the National Capital Parks and Planning Commission acquired the land. Their ambitious plan was to create a parkway called Fort Drive connecting other Civil War forts. That never happened. Shepherd Parkway became part of the National Park Service in 1933. Today it is a mature wooded forest. It features a rolling terrain and is home to a variety of wildlife.
Two significant Civil War forts are hidden within Shepherd Parkway’s woods. These are Fort Carroll and Fort Greble. They were hastily constructed by the Union Army to defend against a possible Confederate attack on the capital. Interestingly many African Americans escaping slavery sought refuge and work at these forts.
Beyond its historical value Shepherd Parkway holds ecological significance. Biologists have recently discovered two previously unknown aquatic microorganisms in the park’s groundwater. These amphipods likely evolved independently in the park’s unique environment.
However Shepherd Parkway faces challenges. It suffers from illegal dumping and invasive species like honeysuckle vines. Activist Nathan Harrington founded the Ward 8 Woods Conservancy in 2018. His group has removed 1.3 million pounds of trash and cleared vines from over 7000 trees. Harrington envisions a 3.6-mile hiking trail. This would replace trails created by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s which have since disappeared. He believes the lack of a trail is connected to environmental racism. Some fear a trail would increase crime. Others see it as a positive addition creating a shortcut to the Metro and a space for children to play.
The future of Shepherd Parkway’s trail remains uncertain. The National Park Service’s 2020 plan suggests a paved sidewalk instead of a natural trail. Harrington advocates for the trail emphasizing its cost-effectiveness and minimal environmental impact. The park lacks signage. It doesn’t even clearly identify itself as a park. This makes it difficult for residents to access its historical and ecological treasures. Despite these obstacles Harrington remains dedicated to making Shepherd Parkway a cherished and accessible space for everyone.