Outline of Talking Points for November 7, 2009
Fort Ward Park History Workgroup Meeting
DRAFT--WORK IN PROGRESS
Creation of Fort Ward Park: Mission and Intent
Annotated Highlights from 1953-1983
J. Glenn Eugster, Seminary Hill Association, Inc., Board; Friends of Fort Ward, Member
November 6, 2009 (Revised 11-11-2010)
1951
City of Alexandria annexed certain territory from the County of Fairfax on December 31, 1951. Budget for the annexed area includes $25,000 for Land, Parks, etc. City Council Meeting January 22, 1952.
1953
Early in 1953, Lt. Cmdr. Moreau B.C. Chambers, a member of the D.C. Civil War Round Table, in collaboration with Mrs. R.F.S. Starr, contacted the Alexandria Department of Planning about possible acquisition of Ft. Ward. Correspondence from Mrs. Starr to Wanda Dowell. January 29, 1982
1954
“The City should save the area as an important historical landmark.”
“The area should be used for the creation of a “historical park for the use, education and enjoyment of all the people. The Fort Ward Historical Park would be, in our thinking, a natural park, kept essentially in a natural state with a minimum of roads structures and other developments, and a minimum of expense. Possibly some picnic areas. There would be no athletic fields, no tennis courts, no playgrounds”.
Remarks by Mr. Wiecking, President of the Seminary Hill Association, to the Alexandria Planning Commission. April 1, 1954.
“It was recommended that the City Council allocate the sum of $25,000.00 for the acquisition of Fort Ward for a park site, upon motion of Mr. Watkins, and that a committee be appointed of one or two members of the Commission, the Director of Recreation and a member of the Seminary Hill Association, said committee to try to determine a reasonable size of the park to be acquired, the committee to report to the Council at its next meeting. The motion was seconded by Mr. Dawson and carried unanimously. The following were appointed to the committee: Mr. Watkins and Mr. Gilliam from the Commission; Mr. E. Wieking from Seminary Hill Association, and Mr. Cahill to serve as co-coordinator. The Commission wished the City Council to be advised at this time that if it does not take immediate action in this matter, the City will not only lose a valuable historical site but will be faced with the problem of being compelled to seek other areas for park purposes, which due to rapid development will make it necessary for Council to pay increased land costs for these purposes.” City Planning Commission Meeting. April 1, 1954.
“.. a proposal to acquire not only valuable land in terms of historical character, but also to preserve as much land as possible to be left in a natural state. I think it is important for the community to have such areas located strategically throughout the entire City”.
“…the municipality must gain acreage to give apartment dwellers and the average residents a place in which he does not feel crowded”.
Remarks on a land acquisition proposal for Fort Ward Historical Park by Eugene L. Barnwell, Alexandria Director of Recreation. April 7, 1954.
1955
“I have your letter of January 7. There has been some question with regard to an old cemetery which impinges on the Fort Ward territory. Until our title search has cleared this matter, I am unable to proceed.”
Correspondence between Leroy E. Peabody, Right-of-Way Engineer and Ashton C. Jones of the George H. Rucker Company regarding Lot 16 Eagle Crest. January 11, 1955.
“To preserve a historical site and further provide a recreational area which should remain as much as possible in its natural state”…..”To provide for the recreational interest and pursuits of those persons desiring areas left in their natural state”…
From a fact sheet dated March 15, 1955 labeled Fort Ward Historical Park, Braddock Road and North Howard Street. Presented by Lee Fones, Director of Alexandria Recreation Department for land acquisition and parks in the recreation Capital Improvements Budget. March 17, 1955.
“Attached hereto is the Department of Recreation Captial Improvements Budget as requested. Listed are the categories and priorities:
Category Name Priority
Land Acquisition Ft. Ward Historical Park 1
Individual Project Data March 15, 1955
Category of Project
Land Acquisition
Project Status: Addition
Description: Historical Fort site of Civil War and requested additional area of 13 acres
Purpose: To preserve a historical site and to further provide a recreational area which should remain as much as possible in its natural state”.
Director of Recreation, Lee Fones correspondence to Planning Director Denis Cahill, March 17, 1958.
1956
“…. A plat of survey of said land, marked “Exhibit A”, which plat shows the location of the land necessary for the public historical park.”
In the Corporation Court of the City of Alexandria, Virginia. Petition for Condemnation. City of Alexandria v. Cassius McKnight and Rachel McKnight, #9809. May 26, 1922.
1959
City Manager E.G. Heatwole writes to P.B. Hall, Director of Public Works, suggesting that he consider surveying and staking the City’s Fort Ward Park property. June 9, 1959
In response to a call from Mrs. R.F.S. Starr about what action was contemplated in the vacation of streets through Ft. Ward, Assistant City Manager Eugene L. Barnwell wrote to City manager E.G. Heatwole proposing a meeting with the Planning Director, Recreation Director and Public Works Director to discuss future park entry points. November 2, 1959
1960
W.B. Hurd, Cahirman of the Alexandria Civil War Centennial Commission, wrote a letter to the Mayor and City Council requesting the expenditure of funds by the City for the restoration of Fort Ward, and the printing of a Centennial tourist folder. January 27, 1960.
The City Council, in response to information dated February 19, 1960 provided by the City Manager, unanimously approved, granted and allocated $11,900.00 from the Recreation Park Fund Bond Account to acquire additional lands for Fort Ward Park.
On Monday October 3, 1960 P.B. Hall, Director of Public Works; Frank Kenny, Planning Director; Lee Fones, Recreation Director; and Eugene L. Barnwell, Assistant to the City Manager, met to discuss the development of Fort Ward Park and accomplishments to date. In a memo Branwell noted that;
* A topo of the Fort itself has been completed. Included in the new topo is a grave plot 40’ X 50”. Mr. Hall suggested that “this be referred to the City Attorney for his opinion and recommendation”. Branwell note also mentions that, “Several weeks ago the underbrush was removed and some clearing done in the Fort site itself. Nothing further has been planned”. October 7, 1960.
“The City should hire a landscape engineer to complete plans for park development and to coordinate the development of the Fort site”.
Letter from Eugene L. Barnwell, Assistant to the City Manager, to E.G. Heatwole, City Manager. October 7, 1960.
“Mr. P. B. Hall, Public Works Director, reports that there are several graves located within the Fort site. It is not believed that they have any relationship with activities of Fort Ward during 1861-65. Also it is questioned as to whether there are bodies still buried there.
If possible, we would like to have the area cleared. Would you please advise me as to what action should be taken by the City to accomplish this.” Letter from E.G. Heatwole, City Manager, to Floyd Williams, City Attorney. October 7, 1960.
The Alexandria Director of Francis S. Kenny writes to City Manager E.G. Heatwole indicating that specialists from the National Park Service “visited Alexandria to go over the City’s general plans for rehabilitation of Fort Ward as a historic park site, and visited the site itself”. The letter indicates that NPS will supply the city with “an estimate of what the job of rehabilitation would cost as well as the names of qualified historians with an archaeologist’s bent, who would be willing to take on the job”. Kenny indicates that “until we receive the benefit of such knowledge and experience, it would seem advisable to let the matter of street vacations in the area rest until a complete plan is drawn”. November 8, 1960.
City Manager E.G. Heatwole request Boris Timchenko, a Landscape Architect-Site Planner, to “have an archaeolgist study the northwest bastion, the well and possibly part of the north bombproof. After this excavatioin then it would be determined what further historical investigations should be made. I am advised that this work should be done prior to making a decision on the ev entual development of Fort Ward Park”. December 27, 1960.
1961
City Manager E.G. Heatwole requests the Smithsonian Institution for assistance in reconstructing a portion of Fort Ward Park as part of its participation in the Civil War Cenntenial. The request indicates that the work would include “the approximate seven acres of the fort site”, “an additional twenty acres surrounding the fort. Among the things that would be desired of you if you assumed responsibility for the reconstructyion would be recommendations concerning development of the remaining area so that it would be compatible with the fort”. January 13, 1961.
City Council approval of a resolution authorizing funds to compensate owners of land outside the fort walls “for the purpose of establishing a public historical park”.
City Council Meeting Minutes, September 11, 1961.
“I recommend to the City Council that the manager be authorized to consult with firms engaged in this type of work to determine costs of services for the development of such a master plan.” Report notes “Funds Available Now, Special Appropriations: Armory Fire Insurance Proceeds $8,705.38. This sum could be used to engage consultant for preparation of Park Master Plan”.
From a report from the City Manager at the October 10, 1961 City Council Meeting. Council approved motion for the Manager to engage appropriate consultants for this project and to use the above-mentioned funds.
E.G. Heatwole writes to Eugene L. Barnwell suggesting that he continue with the Fort Ward Project by: obtaining a price for the construction of the fort itself; contracting with a landscape architect for determining overall development; indicating on a map the additional land to be acquired. October 13, 1961
“In conclusion, it is my opinion that this acquisition of the additional acreage is imperative for the protection of the fort and for assembling a large enough tract of land to be developed into an attractive and useable park for the city”.
Report recommending the acquisition of additional property at Fort Ward Park, dated November 3, 1961, from the City Manager to the City Council at their November 14, 1961 meeting.
1962
“It is a pleasure to submit a proposal for the preparation of overall plans for Fort Ward Park. We feel that the most effective results will be obtained by preparing three (3) different sets of drawings:
(1) A General Plan….;
(2) A Planting Plan…; and
(3) A Plan of Construction Details…”
Letter from C.C. Robinson of Robinson Brothers Company, certified Landscape Architects & Consultants, to P.B. Hall, Acting City Manager. January 22, 1962. [Final Plans due June 15, 1962].
On June 5, 1962 City Council adopted a resolution creating a Park & Recreation Commission. The Commission held its first organizational meeting on October 29, 1962. Letter from City Manager Albert Hair, Jr. to Dr. Everette Weitzell, Chairman of the Alexandria Planning Commission. October 30, 1962.
The General Plan, prepared in July 1962 and revised in August and September, allocated use areas; proposed grading, road alignments and signs. It included:
Museum
A small maintenance building near the intersection of the park-loop and the cemetery access road.
Overflow parking parallel to Braddock Road.
Picnic areas outside of the park-loop, except for one area east of the fort walls.
Areas to view bastion.
Graves.
Future open area on the east boundary of the park
The Planting Plan, prepared in July 1962 and revised in August 1962 and January and February 1963, identified:
Outline hedges
Protective hedge row
Hedge barrier
Plantings for existing wooded areas
Planting groups
Sometime after September 1962 the General Plan was modified to include:
A new maintenance building, with public restrooms, behind the Museum parking lot.
A managers residence off Braddock Road.
A children’s barnyard east of the Museum parking lot.
Proposed picnic tables within picnic areas.
Walking trails
Specific roadside plantings.
The City of Alexandria submitted an “Application for Grant to Acquire Open Space Land” to add additional 17.6 acres to Fort Ward Park. The resolution adopted by the City Council which set the wheels in motion for this application was based on 20% Federal financing. During subsequent discussions with the Housing and Home Finance Agency it was learned that Alexandria could receive 30% Federal financing. To receive a 30% grant, the city had to enter into an agreement with other public agencies within the Washington Metropolitan area constituting at least 60% of the geographical area. ?????? Letter from Robert Osthreim, Acting Director of Planning, to Chairman and Members of the City Planning Commission. August 31, 1962.
“Although the park’s principal importance is historical, it also can be used in its natural state as a recreational and picnic area.”
Eugene L. Barnwell, Alexandria General Services Director (involved in the restoration project since he was Director of Recreation in 1954) Sunday Star, Washington, DC August 5, 1962.
“(b) The Public Body agrees to retain said land for permanent open-space purposes, and the open-space use of said land shall be: Park and outdoor recreational activities and uses compatible with maintaining the open-space character of the lands involved; Implementation of historic site and preservation of lands of historic and scenic value.” Contract for Grant To Acquire Open-Space Land Under Title VII of the Housing Act of 1961 between the United States of America, Housing and Home Finance Administration and the City of Alexandria, Virginia. September 10, 1963.
1964
A meeting of the Site Plan Coordinating Committee was held on January 27, 1964 to consider the site plan for the Storage Building to be located behind the existing museum at Fort Ward Park. On February 4, 1964 the Planning Commission approved the site plan. The conditions of the approval include: A Special Use Permit is required for this structure, and, the roadways and parking areas be paved and marked. Letter from Frank L. Ventura, Director of Planning & Urban renewal to P.B. Hall, Director of Public Works. January 28, 1964. On February 25, 1964 the City Council granted Special Use Permit No. 575 to the City of Alexandria.
Insert references.
Mary and Richard Ruffner withdraw the application they submitted in August to rezone their 20.6 acre property, on the northerly side of Braddock Road, from R-8 to R-A. Letter from the Ruffners to the Alexandria Planning Commission and Mayor. Adjacent landowners listed include Cassisu McKnight, Oakland Bpatist Church, and Edward M. Robinson. September 18, 1964.
1965
The Planning Commission met on September 9, 1965 reviewed the preliminary Fort Ward Park Greenhouse and Parking site plan. The City of Alexandria proposed to construct a 38 car parking lot and a 300 square foot greenhouse. The Commission approved the site plan.
1968
“I understand that part of these properties my be occupied by a family cemetery. Would you kindly advise if this be true and let me know if it poses any problems. Specifically, does the City want to remove the bodies or will it keep the graveyard as part of the park”.
Letter from Armistead L. Boothe, attorney for Cassius McKnight and Edward M. Robinson, to Dayton Cook, Deputy Director, Department of Public Works regarding City Council resolutions for land condemnation at Fort Ward. May 2, 1968.
“WHEREAS, on March 26, 1968 and April 9, 1968, the City Council adopted four resolutions authorizing the institution of appropriate condemnation proceedings of four parcels of land owned by Cassius McKnight, Edward M. Robinson, Stanley J. Asrael and Benjamin Ettleman, and E. Joel Tregor, Administrator; and….” City Council Meeting. May 15, 1968.
City Council approves bids, awards of contracts and allocation of funds for various projects including the Fort Ward Park Comfort Station (HUD-VA-B-5). City Council Meeting. September 10, 1968.
City Council approves a land exchange at Fort Ward Park between the City of Alexandria and the Oakland Baptist Church involving that portion of Parcel 3963-1 to the west of the cemetery and that portion of Parcel 3963-2 to the north of the cemetery. Approval is subject to the approval of the City Attorney. September 27, 1968.
1969
The Trustees of the Oakland Baptist Church, Seminary, Alexandria, Virginia petitioned the Commonwealth of Virginia, in the Corporation Court of the City of Alexandria, VA., to be given authority “to exchange land which has never been used for a burial ground for a like parcel of adjoining City of Alexandria property in an equal exchange”. Approved, in Order #41, June 6, 1969
1973
“It is recommended that the Ruffner property (approximately 20 acres) be acquired and added to Ft. Ward Park open space.”
“On the three holidays during that period (May 20 through September 15, 1972)it was necessary to “close” the park and refer other picnickers to Chinquapin Park or to other sites”.
“Last year’s use indicates the need to control attendance by requiring advance reservations or by physically closing the gates when the maximum capacity has been reached. Capacity is set at 450 which means that at the maximum each park user would have approximately 3710 square feet of open space. This does not offer the pastoral setting many are seeking and for which the park was laid out”.
Letter from Eugene L. Barnwell, Director recreation & Cultural Activities, to Wayne F. Anderson, City Manager. March 7, 1973.
1979
In 1979 Kathleen Kust, a designer working as an intern in the Park Planning Division of the Transportation & Environmental Services Department, was employed to prepare a master plan for the park. The plan included:
Fort Area (including the earthworks but not the rifle trenches, battery, or graves) including Maintenance Building and Restrooms
Play Area with screened plantings along boundary with homeowners)
Amphitheater
Restrooms on the west side of the park
Proposed Picnic Area with a shelter near Braddock Road
Maintenance yard next to the Oakland Baptist Church Cemetery
Proposed Overflow Parking in the future open area. Includes 94 parking spaces with screened plantings along the boundary with Marlboro Estates homeowners, and on top of existing graves)
Charles W. Hendryx Memorial
Rip-Rap Path along the drainage channel near the Hendryx Memorial and the cemetery
1980
In 1980 the City received a Young Adult Conservation Corps Grant to begin implementation of the Master Plan elements.
1981
“That the City Council Authorize the City Manager to submit the nomination to the State Historic Preservation Officer at the Virginia Historic Landmarks Commission for the certification and forwarding to the U.S. Department of Interior”. From a memo to the Mayor and City Council from Douglas Harman, City Manager, regarding the Nomination of Fort Ward to the National Register of Historic Places. Prepared by Joseph Hensley, Director, Department of Recreation and Cultural Activities; Wanda Dowell, Curator, Fort Ward park and Museum; and Suzanne Schell, Director, Division of Historic Resources. June 2, 1981.
“Consideration of Submitting the Historic Site at Fort Ward Park for Inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places Maintanined by the U.S. Department of the Interior.
Be It Resolved, that the City Council:
25. That the City Council authorize the City Manager to submit the nomination to the State Historic Preservation Officer at the Virginia Historic Landmark Commission for certification and forwarding to the U.S. Department of Interior.” The resolution was passed unanimously. City Council Meeting. June 9, 1981.
1982
“Fort Ward is a 35-acre Historic Park owned and operated by the City of Alexandria, Virginia. The park is comprised of three major elements. In order of importance they are:
a) Civil War Earthen Fortifications (Fort, riffle trench, outlying gun battery);
b) Reproduction Period Military Buildings (Museum, Officer’s Hut, and Park Maintenance and Restroom Complex); and;
c) Recreational Facilities (Park on the perimeter, separated horizontally, picnic areas outside the historic area, and a rustic amphitheater. Enhanced by carefully located planting beds)”.
Statement of significance (…..Fort Ward today serves as a 35 acre historic park and museum….).
Application for listing on the National Register of Historic Places approved by the Executive Director, Virginia Historic Landmarks Commission, Commonwealth of VA. February 16, 1982
1983
In April 1983 the City published a folded-map of the City of Alexandria Arboretum at Fort Ward Park. The map includes information about shade, ornamental and evergreen trees in the park. In addition the map identifies:
Restrooms behind the parking area for the Museum
A playground on the west side of the park
A rectangular maintenance, nursery yard with a building
Three picnic areas within the park-loop and six picnic areas outside the loop
Two picnic shelters
The NW Bastion and fort earthworks and rifle trench
Oakland Baptist Church Cemetery
An open maintenance/nursery yard with a greenhouse
Amphitheater
Various planting beds
“Ever since its reconstruction in 1963, Ft. Ward Park and Museum has been a very popular recreation facility in the City with over 100,000 visitors each year. As a result of the heavy use, the park has experienced environmental decline and erosion in recent years. In 1979 an intern was employed to prepare a master plan for the park, and in 1980 the City received a Young Adult Conservation Corps Grant to begin implementation of plan elements”.
From Douglas Harman, City Manager to the Mayor and City Council, Allocation of Funds for Fort Ward Park, Capital Project Detail, October 21, 1983.
1987
“..I would appreciate it if your office would conduct a survey and prepare a plat of consolidation.”
“… Please inform me when the survey and plat of consolidation have been prepared. I will then have outside counsel conduct the title exam and prepare the deed of consolidation.” Memorandum from City Attorney Phillip G. Sunderland, to Director, Department of Transportation and Environmental Services, Dayton L. Cook. February 10, 1987.
“Called to say that Land Consolidation has been completed as of 6/29/87.” Telephone message from Ross Weinstein, City Attorney’s Office, to Wanda Dowell, Director of Fort Ward Museum.
1987
“Ever since its construction in 1963, Ft. Ward Park and Museum has been a very popular recreation facility in the City with over 100,000 visitations each year. As a result of this heavy use, the park has experienced environmental decline and erosion in recent years. In 1979 an intern was employed to prepare a master plan for the park, and in 1980 the City received a Young Adult Conservation Corps Grant to begin implementation of plan elements.”
“…..FY 1988 funds will be used to expand the City’s greenhouse operation. Eventually, this facility will allow the City to reduce seasonal flower display expenditures by growing its own plants from seed. A program to control the erosion problems at the historic areas of the park was initiated during FY 1985 and is programmed through FY 1990.”
Capital Project Detail: Fort Ward Park. Allocation of Funds Request from City Manager, Vola Lawson to the Mayor and City Council. Received by Alexandria Management & Budget, March 26, 1987.
Fort Ward Park History Workgroup Meeting
DRAFT--WORK IN PROGRESS
Creation of Fort Ward Park: Mission and Intent
Annotated Highlights from 1953-1983
J. Glenn Eugster, Seminary Hill Association, Inc., Board; Friends of Fort Ward, Member
November 6, 2009 (Revised 11-11-2010)
1951
City of Alexandria annexed certain territory from the County of Fairfax on December 31, 1951. Budget for the annexed area includes $25,000 for Land, Parks, etc. City Council Meeting January 22, 1952.
1953
Early in 1953, Lt. Cmdr. Moreau B.C. Chambers, a member of the D.C. Civil War Round Table, in collaboration with Mrs. R.F.S. Starr, contacted the Alexandria Department of Planning about possible acquisition of Ft. Ward. Correspondence from Mrs. Starr to Wanda Dowell. January 29, 1982
1954
“The City should save the area as an important historical landmark.”
“The area should be used for the creation of a “historical park for the use, education and enjoyment of all the people. The Fort Ward Historical Park would be, in our thinking, a natural park, kept essentially in a natural state with a minimum of roads structures and other developments, and a minimum of expense. Possibly some picnic areas. There would be no athletic fields, no tennis courts, no playgrounds”.
Remarks by Mr. Wiecking, President of the Seminary Hill Association, to the Alexandria Planning Commission. April 1, 1954.
“It was recommended that the City Council allocate the sum of $25,000.00 for the acquisition of Fort Ward for a park site, upon motion of Mr. Watkins, and that a committee be appointed of one or two members of the Commission, the Director of Recreation and a member of the Seminary Hill Association, said committee to try to determine a reasonable size of the park to be acquired, the committee to report to the Council at its next meeting. The motion was seconded by Mr. Dawson and carried unanimously. The following were appointed to the committee: Mr. Watkins and Mr. Gilliam from the Commission; Mr. E. Wieking from Seminary Hill Association, and Mr. Cahill to serve as co-coordinator. The Commission wished the City Council to be advised at this time that if it does not take immediate action in this matter, the City will not only lose a valuable historical site but will be faced with the problem of being compelled to seek other areas for park purposes, which due to rapid development will make it necessary for Council to pay increased land costs for these purposes.” City Planning Commission Meeting. April 1, 1954.
“.. a proposal to acquire not only valuable land in terms of historical character, but also to preserve as much land as possible to be left in a natural state. I think it is important for the community to have such areas located strategically throughout the entire City”.
“…the municipality must gain acreage to give apartment dwellers and the average residents a place in which he does not feel crowded”.
Remarks on a land acquisition proposal for Fort Ward Historical Park by Eugene L. Barnwell, Alexandria Director of Recreation. April 7, 1954.
1955
“I have your letter of January 7. There has been some question with regard to an old cemetery which impinges on the Fort Ward territory. Until our title search has cleared this matter, I am unable to proceed.”
Correspondence between Leroy E. Peabody, Right-of-Way Engineer and Ashton C. Jones of the George H. Rucker Company regarding Lot 16 Eagle Crest. January 11, 1955.
“To preserve a historical site and further provide a recreational area which should remain as much as possible in its natural state”…..”To provide for the recreational interest and pursuits of those persons desiring areas left in their natural state”…
From a fact sheet dated March 15, 1955 labeled Fort Ward Historical Park, Braddock Road and North Howard Street. Presented by Lee Fones, Director of Alexandria Recreation Department for land acquisition and parks in the recreation Capital Improvements Budget. March 17, 1955.
“Attached hereto is the Department of Recreation Captial Improvements Budget as requested. Listed are the categories and priorities:
Category Name Priority
Land Acquisition Ft. Ward Historical Park 1
Individual Project Data March 15, 1955
Category of Project
Land Acquisition
Project Status: Addition
Description: Historical Fort site of Civil War and requested additional area of 13 acres
Purpose: To preserve a historical site and to further provide a recreational area which should remain as much as possible in its natural state”.
Director of Recreation, Lee Fones correspondence to Planning Director Denis Cahill, March 17, 1958.
1956
“…. A plat of survey of said land, marked “Exhibit A”, which plat shows the location of the land necessary for the public historical park.”
In the Corporation Court of the City of Alexandria, Virginia. Petition for Condemnation. City of Alexandria v. Cassius McKnight and Rachel McKnight, #9809. May 26, 1922.
1959
City Manager E.G. Heatwole writes to P.B. Hall, Director of Public Works, suggesting that he consider surveying and staking the City’s Fort Ward Park property. June 9, 1959
In response to a call from Mrs. R.F.S. Starr about what action was contemplated in the vacation of streets through Ft. Ward, Assistant City Manager Eugene L. Barnwell wrote to City manager E.G. Heatwole proposing a meeting with the Planning Director, Recreation Director and Public Works Director to discuss future park entry points. November 2, 1959
1960
W.B. Hurd, Cahirman of the Alexandria Civil War Centennial Commission, wrote a letter to the Mayor and City Council requesting the expenditure of funds by the City for the restoration of Fort Ward, and the printing of a Centennial tourist folder. January 27, 1960.
The City Council, in response to information dated February 19, 1960 provided by the City Manager, unanimously approved, granted and allocated $11,900.00 from the Recreation Park Fund Bond Account to acquire additional lands for Fort Ward Park.
On Monday October 3, 1960 P.B. Hall, Director of Public Works; Frank Kenny, Planning Director; Lee Fones, Recreation Director; and Eugene L. Barnwell, Assistant to the City Manager, met to discuss the development of Fort Ward Park and accomplishments to date. In a memo Branwell noted that;
* A topo of the Fort itself has been completed. Included in the new topo is a grave plot 40’ X 50”. Mr. Hall suggested that “this be referred to the City Attorney for his opinion and recommendation”. Branwell note also mentions that, “Several weeks ago the underbrush was removed and some clearing done in the Fort site itself. Nothing further has been planned”. October 7, 1960.
“The City should hire a landscape engineer to complete plans for park development and to coordinate the development of the Fort site”.
Letter from Eugene L. Barnwell, Assistant to the City Manager, to E.G. Heatwole, City Manager. October 7, 1960.
“Mr. P. B. Hall, Public Works Director, reports that there are several graves located within the Fort site. It is not believed that they have any relationship with activities of Fort Ward during 1861-65. Also it is questioned as to whether there are bodies still buried there.
If possible, we would like to have the area cleared. Would you please advise me as to what action should be taken by the City to accomplish this.” Letter from E.G. Heatwole, City Manager, to Floyd Williams, City Attorney. October 7, 1960.
The Alexandria Director of Francis S. Kenny writes to City Manager E.G. Heatwole indicating that specialists from the National Park Service “visited Alexandria to go over the City’s general plans for rehabilitation of Fort Ward as a historic park site, and visited the site itself”. The letter indicates that NPS will supply the city with “an estimate of what the job of rehabilitation would cost as well as the names of qualified historians with an archaeologist’s bent, who would be willing to take on the job”. Kenny indicates that “until we receive the benefit of such knowledge and experience, it would seem advisable to let the matter of street vacations in the area rest until a complete plan is drawn”. November 8, 1960.
City Manager E.G. Heatwole request Boris Timchenko, a Landscape Architect-Site Planner, to “have an archaeolgist study the northwest bastion, the well and possibly part of the north bombproof. After this excavatioin then it would be determined what further historical investigations should be made. I am advised that this work should be done prior to making a decision on the ev entual development of Fort Ward Park”. December 27, 1960.
1961
City Manager E.G. Heatwole requests the Smithsonian Institution for assistance in reconstructing a portion of Fort Ward Park as part of its participation in the Civil War Cenntenial. The request indicates that the work would include “the approximate seven acres of the fort site”, “an additional twenty acres surrounding the fort. Among the things that would be desired of you if you assumed responsibility for the reconstructyion would be recommendations concerning development of the remaining area so that it would be compatible with the fort”. January 13, 1961.
City Council approval of a resolution authorizing funds to compensate owners of land outside the fort walls “for the purpose of establishing a public historical park”.
City Council Meeting Minutes, September 11, 1961.
“I recommend to the City Council that the manager be authorized to consult with firms engaged in this type of work to determine costs of services for the development of such a master plan.” Report notes “Funds Available Now, Special Appropriations: Armory Fire Insurance Proceeds $8,705.38. This sum could be used to engage consultant for preparation of Park Master Plan”.
From a report from the City Manager at the October 10, 1961 City Council Meeting. Council approved motion for the Manager to engage appropriate consultants for this project and to use the above-mentioned funds.
E.G. Heatwole writes to Eugene L. Barnwell suggesting that he continue with the Fort Ward Project by: obtaining a price for the construction of the fort itself; contracting with a landscape architect for determining overall development; indicating on a map the additional land to be acquired. October 13, 1961
“In conclusion, it is my opinion that this acquisition of the additional acreage is imperative for the protection of the fort and for assembling a large enough tract of land to be developed into an attractive and useable park for the city”.
Report recommending the acquisition of additional property at Fort Ward Park, dated November 3, 1961, from the City Manager to the City Council at their November 14, 1961 meeting.
1962
“It is a pleasure to submit a proposal for the preparation of overall plans for Fort Ward Park. We feel that the most effective results will be obtained by preparing three (3) different sets of drawings:
(1) A General Plan….;
(2) A Planting Plan…; and
(3) A Plan of Construction Details…”
Letter from C.C. Robinson of Robinson Brothers Company, certified Landscape Architects & Consultants, to P.B. Hall, Acting City Manager. January 22, 1962. [Final Plans due June 15, 1962].
On June 5, 1962 City Council adopted a resolution creating a Park & Recreation Commission. The Commission held its first organizational meeting on October 29, 1962. Letter from City Manager Albert Hair, Jr. to Dr. Everette Weitzell, Chairman of the Alexandria Planning Commission. October 30, 1962.
The General Plan, prepared in July 1962 and revised in August and September, allocated use areas; proposed grading, road alignments and signs. It included:
Museum
A small maintenance building near the intersection of the park-loop and the cemetery access road.
Overflow parking parallel to Braddock Road.
Picnic areas outside of the park-loop, except for one area east of the fort walls.
Areas to view bastion.
Graves.
Future open area on the east boundary of the park
The Planting Plan, prepared in July 1962 and revised in August 1962 and January and February 1963, identified:
Outline hedges
Protective hedge row
Hedge barrier
Plantings for existing wooded areas
Planting groups
Sometime after September 1962 the General Plan was modified to include:
A new maintenance building, with public restrooms, behind the Museum parking lot.
A managers residence off Braddock Road.
A children’s barnyard east of the Museum parking lot.
Proposed picnic tables within picnic areas.
Walking trails
Specific roadside plantings.
The City of Alexandria submitted an “Application for Grant to Acquire Open Space Land” to add additional 17.6 acres to Fort Ward Park. The resolution adopted by the City Council which set the wheels in motion for this application was based on 20% Federal financing. During subsequent discussions with the Housing and Home Finance Agency it was learned that Alexandria could receive 30% Federal financing. To receive a 30% grant, the city had to enter into an agreement with other public agencies within the Washington Metropolitan area constituting at least 60% of the geographical area. ?????? Letter from Robert Osthreim, Acting Director of Planning, to Chairman and Members of the City Planning Commission. August 31, 1962.
“Although the park’s principal importance is historical, it also can be used in its natural state as a recreational and picnic area.”
Eugene L. Barnwell, Alexandria General Services Director (involved in the restoration project since he was Director of Recreation in 1954) Sunday Star, Washington, DC August 5, 1962.
“(b) The Public Body agrees to retain said land for permanent open-space purposes, and the open-space use of said land shall be: Park and outdoor recreational activities and uses compatible with maintaining the open-space character of the lands involved; Implementation of historic site and preservation of lands of historic and scenic value.” Contract for Grant To Acquire Open-Space Land Under Title VII of the Housing Act of 1961 between the United States of America, Housing and Home Finance Administration and the City of Alexandria, Virginia. September 10, 1963.
1964
A meeting of the Site Plan Coordinating Committee was held on January 27, 1964 to consider the site plan for the Storage Building to be located behind the existing museum at Fort Ward Park. On February 4, 1964 the Planning Commission approved the site plan. The conditions of the approval include: A Special Use Permit is required for this structure, and, the roadways and parking areas be paved and marked. Letter from Frank L. Ventura, Director of Planning & Urban renewal to P.B. Hall, Director of Public Works. January 28, 1964. On February 25, 1964 the City Council granted Special Use Permit No. 575 to the City of Alexandria.
Insert references.
Mary and Richard Ruffner withdraw the application they submitted in August to rezone their 20.6 acre property, on the northerly side of Braddock Road, from R-8 to R-A. Letter from the Ruffners to the Alexandria Planning Commission and Mayor. Adjacent landowners listed include Cassisu McKnight, Oakland Bpatist Church, and Edward M. Robinson. September 18, 1964.
1965
The Planning Commission met on September 9, 1965 reviewed the preliminary Fort Ward Park Greenhouse and Parking site plan. The City of Alexandria proposed to construct a 38 car parking lot and a 300 square foot greenhouse. The Commission approved the site plan.
1968
“I understand that part of these properties my be occupied by a family cemetery. Would you kindly advise if this be true and let me know if it poses any problems. Specifically, does the City want to remove the bodies or will it keep the graveyard as part of the park”.
Letter from Armistead L. Boothe, attorney for Cassius McKnight and Edward M. Robinson, to Dayton Cook, Deputy Director, Department of Public Works regarding City Council resolutions for land condemnation at Fort Ward. May 2, 1968.
“WHEREAS, on March 26, 1968 and April 9, 1968, the City Council adopted four resolutions authorizing the institution of appropriate condemnation proceedings of four parcels of land owned by Cassius McKnight, Edward M. Robinson, Stanley J. Asrael and Benjamin Ettleman, and E. Joel Tregor, Administrator; and….” City Council Meeting. May 15, 1968.
City Council approves bids, awards of contracts and allocation of funds for various projects including the Fort Ward Park Comfort Station (HUD-VA-B-5). City Council Meeting. September 10, 1968.
City Council approves a land exchange at Fort Ward Park between the City of Alexandria and the Oakland Baptist Church involving that portion of Parcel 3963-1 to the west of the cemetery and that portion of Parcel 3963-2 to the north of the cemetery. Approval is subject to the approval of the City Attorney. September 27, 1968.
1969
The Trustees of the Oakland Baptist Church, Seminary, Alexandria, Virginia petitioned the Commonwealth of Virginia, in the Corporation Court of the City of Alexandria, VA., to be given authority “to exchange land which has never been used for a burial ground for a like parcel of adjoining City of Alexandria property in an equal exchange”. Approved, in Order #41, June 6, 1969
1973
“It is recommended that the Ruffner property (approximately 20 acres) be acquired and added to Ft. Ward Park open space.”
“On the three holidays during that period (May 20 through September 15, 1972)it was necessary to “close” the park and refer other picnickers to Chinquapin Park or to other sites”.
“Last year’s use indicates the need to control attendance by requiring advance reservations or by physically closing the gates when the maximum capacity has been reached. Capacity is set at 450 which means that at the maximum each park user would have approximately 3710 square feet of open space. This does not offer the pastoral setting many are seeking and for which the park was laid out”.
Letter from Eugene L. Barnwell, Director recreation & Cultural Activities, to Wayne F. Anderson, City Manager. March 7, 1973.
1979
In 1979 Kathleen Kust, a designer working as an intern in the Park Planning Division of the Transportation & Environmental Services Department, was employed to prepare a master plan for the park. The plan included:
Fort Area (including the earthworks but not the rifle trenches, battery, or graves) including Maintenance Building and Restrooms
Play Area with screened plantings along boundary with homeowners)
Amphitheater
Restrooms on the west side of the park
Proposed Picnic Area with a shelter near Braddock Road
Maintenance yard next to the Oakland Baptist Church Cemetery
Proposed Overflow Parking in the future open area. Includes 94 parking spaces with screened plantings along the boundary with Marlboro Estates homeowners, and on top of existing graves)
Charles W. Hendryx Memorial
Rip-Rap Path along the drainage channel near the Hendryx Memorial and the cemetery
1980
In 1980 the City received a Young Adult Conservation Corps Grant to begin implementation of the Master Plan elements.
1981
“That the City Council Authorize the City Manager to submit the nomination to the State Historic Preservation Officer at the Virginia Historic Landmarks Commission for the certification and forwarding to the U.S. Department of Interior”. From a memo to the Mayor and City Council from Douglas Harman, City Manager, regarding the Nomination of Fort Ward to the National Register of Historic Places. Prepared by Joseph Hensley, Director, Department of Recreation and Cultural Activities; Wanda Dowell, Curator, Fort Ward park and Museum; and Suzanne Schell, Director, Division of Historic Resources. June 2, 1981.
“Consideration of Submitting the Historic Site at Fort Ward Park for Inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places Maintanined by the U.S. Department of the Interior.
Be It Resolved, that the City Council:
25. That the City Council authorize the City Manager to submit the nomination to the State Historic Preservation Officer at the Virginia Historic Landmark Commission for certification and forwarding to the U.S. Department of Interior.” The resolution was passed unanimously. City Council Meeting. June 9, 1981.
1982
“Fort Ward is a 35-acre Historic Park owned and operated by the City of Alexandria, Virginia. The park is comprised of three major elements. In order of importance they are:
a) Civil War Earthen Fortifications (Fort, riffle trench, outlying gun battery);
b) Reproduction Period Military Buildings (Museum, Officer’s Hut, and Park Maintenance and Restroom Complex); and;
c) Recreational Facilities (Park on the perimeter, separated horizontally, picnic areas outside the historic area, and a rustic amphitheater. Enhanced by carefully located planting beds)”.
Statement of significance (…..Fort Ward today serves as a 35 acre historic park and museum….).
Application for listing on the National Register of Historic Places approved by the Executive Director, Virginia Historic Landmarks Commission, Commonwealth of VA. February 16, 1982
1983
In April 1983 the City published a folded-map of the City of Alexandria Arboretum at Fort Ward Park. The map includes information about shade, ornamental and evergreen trees in the park. In addition the map identifies:
Restrooms behind the parking area for the Museum
A playground on the west side of the park
A rectangular maintenance, nursery yard with a building
Three picnic areas within the park-loop and six picnic areas outside the loop
Two picnic shelters
The NW Bastion and fort earthworks and rifle trench
Oakland Baptist Church Cemetery
An open maintenance/nursery yard with a greenhouse
Amphitheater
Various planting beds
“Ever since its reconstruction in 1963, Ft. Ward Park and Museum has been a very popular recreation facility in the City with over 100,000 visitors each year. As a result of the heavy use, the park has experienced environmental decline and erosion in recent years. In 1979 an intern was employed to prepare a master plan for the park, and in 1980 the City received a Young Adult Conservation Corps Grant to begin implementation of plan elements”.
From Douglas Harman, City Manager to the Mayor and City Council, Allocation of Funds for Fort Ward Park, Capital Project Detail, October 21, 1983.
1987
“..I would appreciate it if your office would conduct a survey and prepare a plat of consolidation.”
“… Please inform me when the survey and plat of consolidation have been prepared. I will then have outside counsel conduct the title exam and prepare the deed of consolidation.” Memorandum from City Attorney Phillip G. Sunderland, to Director, Department of Transportation and Environmental Services, Dayton L. Cook. February 10, 1987.
“Called to say that Land Consolidation has been completed as of 6/29/87.” Telephone message from Ross Weinstein, City Attorney’s Office, to Wanda Dowell, Director of Fort Ward Museum.
1987
“Ever since its construction in 1963, Ft. Ward Park and Museum has been a very popular recreation facility in the City with over 100,000 visitations each year. As a result of this heavy use, the park has experienced environmental decline and erosion in recent years. In 1979 an intern was employed to prepare a master plan for the park, and in 1980 the City received a Young Adult Conservation Corps Grant to begin implementation of plan elements.”
“…..FY 1988 funds will be used to expand the City’s greenhouse operation. Eventually, this facility will allow the City to reduce seasonal flower display expenditures by growing its own plants from seed. A program to control the erosion problems at the historic areas of the park was initiated during FY 1985 and is programmed through FY 1990.”
Capital Project Detail: Fort Ward Park. Allocation of Funds Request from City Manager, Vola Lawson to the Mayor and City Council. Received by Alexandria Management & Budget, March 26, 1987.
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