The author of Meridian Hill Park comes to DC on Tues., Sept. 18th, at 6PM.
Meridian Hill Park is one of the most unique parks in the National Park System. It is a 12-acre neoclassical park reminiscent of an Italian villa garden. Prior to becoming a national park, the area had been part of an estate called Meridian Hill; home to Columbian College; a Civil War encampment; a seminary; and the home of nature poet Joaquin Miller. It took 26 years — from 1910 to 1936 — to complete and cost more than $1 million to construct. When the park opened it contained five statues and memorials (today, there are four), including one for a US president; a 13-basin water cascade; and an elaborate structure made from architectural concrete. Meridian Hill Park is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and as a National Historic Landmark.
Fiona J. Clem is the author of the book Meridian Hill Park. She is also a licensed D.C tour guide and a long-time resident of Adams Morgan and the Meridian Hill area of Washington, DC. She also runs the blog DCMemorialist and organizes events with Atlas Obscura.
At Busboys and Poets, 2021 14th St., NW, Washington, DC. Click here for info.
