Berwyn Heights, MD

Berwyn Heights is a small town located in Prince George's County, Maryland, United States. Its history dates back to the early 19th century when European settlers began to populate the area.

The town was originally part of a large land grant awarded to the Calvert family, the colonial proprietors of Maryland. The first known record of development in the area dates back to the mid-1800s when a small village called Charlton Heights was established. The village grew slowly over the next few decades, with a few scattered farms and homes.

In 1896, a lawyer named Wallace A. Bartlett purchased a significant portion of the area and began subdividing the land for residential development. He renamed the village Berwyn Heights after the town of Berwyn, Pennsylvania, where his father served as the postmaster.

The early 20th century saw the town gradually grow, with the establishment of essential services such as a post office, school, and volunteer fire department. Berwyn Heights also became popular as a commuter town for those working in nearby Washington, D.C. As the population increased, so did the need for infrastructure and services.

In the 1920s, the Berwyn Heights Improvement Association was formed to advocate for the town's interests, including the installation of streetlights, sidewalks, and utility services. The association also promoted community events and social activities.

One significant event in the town's history occurred in 1932 when a tornado struck Berwyn Heights, causing extensive damage. The tornado led to increased cooperation and community spirit as residents came together to rebuild and support those affected.

Over the years, Berwyn Heights has remained a predominantly residential community. The town has experienced gradual growth and development, with the construction of new homes and the expansion of amenities and services. Today, Berwyn Heights retains its small-town charm while being conveniently located near major urban centers.

In recent times, the town has focused on preserving its history and promoting a sense of community pride. Efforts have been made to protect historic buildings and create public spaces for residents to gather and socialize. Additionally, ongoing initiatives celebrate the diversity and cultural heritage of Berwyn Heights.

Overall, the history of Berwyn Heights illustrates its transformation from a rural village to a thriving suburban community, while maintaining a sense of community and connection to its past.

Some attractions in Berwyn Heights, MD include the following:

Lake Artemesia

A beautiful man-made lake surrounded by a nature trail, perfect for walking, jogging, and fishing.

Buddy Attick Park

A large park with numerous sports fields, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

College Park Aviation Museum

Located nearby, this museum showcases the history of aviation, including interactive exhibits and vintage aircraft.

Greenbelt Park

A peaceful and scenic park that offers camping, hiking trails, and nature programs.

Riverdale Park

Just a short drive away, this park has a lively community center, farmers market, and outdoor concerts in the summer.

The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center

Part of the University of Maryland, this center features a range of performances, including theater, dance, and music.

College Park Tennis Club

A popular facility for tennis enthusiasts, offering both indoor and outdoor courts.

UMD Golf Course

A well-maintained golf course that is open to the public for recreational play.

Paint Branch Stream Valley Park

This park features numerous trails through natural woodlands, perfect for hiking and exploring.

The College Park Historical Society Museum

Located in nearby College Park, this museum exhibits the rich history of the area, including memorabilia and artifacts related to local heritage.

The climate of Berwyn Heights, Maryland is classified as humid subtropical. It experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year. Summers in Berwyn Heights are hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 29-34 degrees Celsius). The region can also experience high levels of humidity, which can make the temperatures feel even hotter.

Winters in Berwyn Heights are generally mild to cool, with average temperatures ranging from the upper 30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 3-7 degrees Celsius). However, occasional cold snaps can bring temperatures below freezing, and snowfall is not uncommon during winter months, albeit usually in small amounts.

Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures and changing foliage. Spring usually brings pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (around 10-25 degrees Celsius). Autumns are generally mild with temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (around 10-25 degrees Celsius) before gradually becoming cooler as the season progresses.

Berwyn Heights experiences a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months typically occurring in the summer, due to the presence of thunderstorms and occasional tropical systems. On average, the area receives around 44 inches (112 cm) of rainfall annually.

It is important to note that while these are general climatic characteristics of Berwyn Heights, weather patterns can vary from year to year, and occasionally extreme weather events such as heatwaves, heavy snowfall, or tropical storms can occur.

Berwyn Heights is a census-designated place located in Prince George's County, Maryland. The community is known for its residential neighborhoods, parks, and proximity to various amenities. Here are some of the different neighborhoods within Berwyn Heights:

College Park Estates

This neighborhood is located in the southern part of Berwyn Heights and is known for its tree-lined streets and spacious single-family homes. It provides easy access to nearby University of Maryland, College Park.

Berwyn Heights Historic District

This district is situated in the heart of Berwyn Heights and is known for its charming historic homes and buildings. Many of the properties in this neighborhood date back to the early 20th century and showcase unique architectural styles.

Sunnyside

Located in the southwestern part of Berwyn Heights, Sunnyside is a primarily residential neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. It offers a peaceful atmosphere, with parks and green spaces nearby.

Old Town Berwyn Heights

Situated west of Greenbelt Road, Old Town Berwyn Heights is a quaint neighborhood that features a mix of older homes and newer construction. It has a community-oriented feel and is close to schools, shops, and restaurants.

Cherokee Street

Cherokee Street is located in the eastern part of Berwyn Heights and offers a range of housing options, including apartments and single-family homes. The neighborhood provides a suburban feel and is known for its quiet streets and friendly atmosphere.

Green Belt Metro Station Area

Although technically outside of Berwyn Heights, this neighborhood is worth mentioning due to its proximity to the community. It is adjacent to Berwyn Heights and offers access to the Greenbelt Metro Station, making it an attractive location for commuters.

Overall, Berwyn Heights offers a range of neighborhoods that cater to diverse housing preferences, from historic homes to newer developments. It provides a tight-knit community feel while still being conveniently located near major transportation routes and amenities.