Circles of history surround us. Sherman Circle in Washington DC is more than just a pretty park. It’s a living testament to the past.
Sherman Circle sits at the heart of Petworth. It’s named after General William Tecumseh Sherman. The circle and four smaller parks total 3.44 acres. The National Park Service considers it a cultural landscape. Did you know that?
The story of Sherman Circle begins in 1889. It was part of the original Petworth plat. But the five reservations were only created in 1923. Landscape architect Irving W Payne designed it. His vision included walkways and beautiful plantings. The goal was to connect the individual spaces and the neighborhood. Imagine strolling those paths.
In 1926 the circle was graded and seeded. There were even talks of moving the Bartholdi Fountain here. Sidewalks were added in 1929. It’s amazing to think of the changes it has seen.
In the 1930s there was a suggestion to move a Sherman monument to the circle. That never happened. A Metro stop was also considered in the 1960s. It wasn’t meant to be. Twenty-one new lamps brightened the circle in 2012. Sherman Circle continues to evolve.
Today Sherman Circle is a vibrant community hub. It’s a testament to planning. It’s a green space in the bustling city. It’s a place of quiet reflection. It connects the past to the present. The circle also offers convenient access to public transportation. The Green Metrorail is just a short walk away. Bus lines also run nearby.
Stand here a moment. Breathe in the history. Let the stories of Sherman Circle envelop you. This isn’t just a park. It’s a journey through time. A vibrant circle in the heart of Petworth.