Lexington Park, MD

County: St. Mary's

History

Lexington Park, Maryland

Lexington Park is a community located in St. Mary's County, Maryland, in the United States. The history of Lexington Park can be traced back to the establishment of the Naval Air Station Patuxent River (NAS Patuxent River) in the area.

The area where Lexington Park is located was primarily agricultural and fishing before the establishment of the naval air station. In the early 1940s, the U.S. Navy selected St. Mary's County as the ideal location for an air station due to its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and the potential for expansion. Construction of the naval air station began in 1942, and it was officially commissioned in 1943.

With the establishment of NAS Patuxent River, the population of the area began to grow significantly. The naval air station brought in military personnel and civilian employees, leading to a demand for housing and infrastructure. To meet this demand, the government constructed housing units, schools, recreational facilities, and other amenities.

Lexington Park, named after the USS Lexington, an aircraft carrier that was lost during the Battle of the Coral Sea in World War II, emerged as the primary community near the naval air station. It became a hub for the families of naval personnel and civilian employees working at NAS Patuxent River.

Over the years, Lexington Park has continued to grow and develop alongside the naval air station. It has become a key center for military and civilian operations, technological research, and development within the aviation and aerospace field. The community is also home to numerous defense contractors, research institutions, and educational facilities supporting NAS Patuxent River.

Today, Lexington Park is a vibrant community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. It offers a variety of amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, parks, and recreational facilities. The naval air station remains a significant economic and cultural influence in the area, contributing to the community's growth and prosperity.

Attractions

Patuxent River Naval Air Museum

Patuxent River Naval Air Museum

A museum showcasing the history and significance of naval aviation with exhibits, aircraft, and interactive displays.

St. Mary's County Historical Society Museum

A museum highlighting the history and culture of St. Mary's County, including exhibits on Native American heritage, colonial history, and maritime traditions.

Historic St. Mary's City

A living history museum that recreates the colonial capital of Maryland showcasing historic buildings, archaeological sites, and costumed interpreters.

Elms Beach Park

A waterfront park with a sandy beach, fishing pier, picnic areas, and walking trails overlooking the Patuxent River.

Cecil's Old Mill

A restored 19th-century grist mill providing tours and educational programs on milling techniques and local history.

Webster Field

A naval air base offering aviation enthusiasts the opportunity to see aircraft operations and special events.

Point Lookout State Park

Located just outside of Lexington Park, it offers swimming, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities in a scenic setting.

Piney Point Lighthouse Museum

A historic lighthouse that now serves as a museum showcasing the history of lighthouse keeping and maritime traditions.

Greenwell State Park

A park offering hiking and equestrian trails, kayaking, fishing, and host of outdoor activities.

Newtowne Neck State Park

A serene park located on a scenic peninsula with walking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting.

Climate

Lexington Park, Maryland has a humid subtropical climate. It experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters. The average summer temperatures range from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29 degrees Celsius), with occasional heatwaves pushing the temperatures into the 90s Fahrenheit (32+ degrees Celsius). Humidity levels are also high during the summer months.

Winter temperatures in Lexington Park average in the upper 30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit (3-9 degrees Celsius), with occasional cold spells dropping temperatures to freezing or slightly below. Snowfall is relatively rare, with an average of about 10 inches (25 cm) per year. However, the area may experience occasional snowstorms that can result in more substantial accumulations.

Spring and fall seasons in Lexington Park are generally mild, with temperatures in the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10-25 degrees Celsius). These transitional seasons usually see moderate rainfall.

Lexington Park, like many coastal areas of Maryland, is susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November, with the peak of activity typically occurring in August and September. It is important for residents to stay informed and prepared during these months.

Overall, Lexington Park experiences a fairly mild climate with distinct seasons, but its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean can bring some weather variability and the potential for tropical storms in certain months.

Neighborhoods

Lexington Park is a small community located in St. Mary's County, Maryland. It is primarily known as the home of the Patuxent River Naval Air Station, which is the largest employer in the county. Here are some of the different neighborhoods within Lexington Park:

Chesapeake Ranch Estates (CRE)

This neighborhood is located to the west of Lexington Park and is known for its larger, rural-like properties. Many homes in CRE are situated on large lots or even acreage, giving residents a more private and spacious living environment.

Greenbrier

Situated in the heart of Lexington Park, Greenbrier is a well-established neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. It offers a variety of housing styles and sizes, appealing to both families and individuals.

Pembrooke

Pembrooke is a relatively newer neighborhood in Lexington Park, offering newer homes and townhouses. It features a community pool, playgrounds, and attractive common areas, making it popular among families.

Westbury

Westbury is a townhouse community located near the entrance of the Patuxent River Naval Air Station. It is a popular choice for military personnel and civilians alike, due to its proximity to the base and affordability.

Town Creek

Located to the east of Lexington Park, Town Creek is a waterfront community that offers a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. The neighborhood provides residents with easy access to water activities, including boating and fishing.

Esperanza Farms

Situated on the outskirts of Lexington Park, Esperanza Farms offers residents a more rural and secluded lifestyle. It features larger properties with spacious homes and is a popular choice for those seeking peaceful living.

These are just a few examples of the different neighborhoods within Lexington Park, each with its own unique characteristics. Safety, accessibility, and affordability are generally considered strengths of the area, making it an attractive place to live for both military personnel and local residents.

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