Once upon a time, this land was part of George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate. Waynewood sits on 300 acres of history. It’s a vibrant community with a unique story.
Waynewood, founded in 1957, is just five miles south of Old Town. It is named after General “Mad Anthony” Wayne. He was a close friend of George Washington. The community celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2007.
Waynewood’s real estate includes 753 homes. You can find center hall colonials here. Split levels and foyers are also common. Cape Cods and ramblers add to the variety.
Waynewood was developed by Clarence W. Gosnell. The land was acquired from five separate owners. Gosnell also developed Riverside Gardens and Westgrove. The home styles are quite similar.
Waynewood is a commuter’s dream. It’s only 11 miles to the Pentagon. The commute to DC is 15 miles. Many residents bike to work. The scenic Mount Vernon Trail borders the neighborhood.
The Waynewood Recreation Association, or WRA, is at the heart of the neighborhood. It features pools and tennis courts. A playground and athletic fields offer fun for all. The WRA hosts summer camps. Pool parties and outdoor movies are also popular.
Neighbors gather for special events throughout the year in Waynewood. There’s an annual Halloween parade. Santa visits during the holidays. An Easter Egg hunt delights children. July 4th festivities bring everyone together. Each September, Waynewood hosts a BBQ cook-off. Locals enjoy live music and BBQ. They vote for their favorite pit master. On Thanksgiving, touch football games take place on the expansive fields.
The Waynewood Citizens Association, or WCA, is active in local efforts. They address transportation issues. They also run the Neighborhood Watch. The WCA offers college scholarships to Waynewood students. It publishes an annual resident directory.
Waynewood mirrors Riverside Gardens and Westgrove in many ways. The home styles are similar. Waynewood is much larger, though. It has about 18 different models.
The Waynewood neighborhood was once part of River Farm. River Farm was one of five farms comprising the Mount Vernon plantation.
In 1769 George Washington purchased River Farm. It consisted of 1,806 acres. The northern section of River Farm was granted to Tobias Lear. Lear was Washington’s private secretary.
An electric car line once ran from Washington, D.C. to Mount Vernon. It operated until the George Washington Memorial Parkway opened.
Today, Waynewood remains a dynamic and involved community. Its residents actively participate in local organizations. They contribute to the Mount Vernon Council of Citizens’ Associations. Waynewood is a special place with old-fashioned neighborliness.