Nestled at the southern end of College Park, Calvert Hills is more than just a neighborhood—it's a living tapestry of Maryland’s history, woven with stories of perseverance, pride, and transformation. With its tree-lined streets, classic homes, and a welcoming spirit, Calvert Hills stands as a testament to the enduring charm and community ethos that have defined this corner of Prince George’s County for well over a century.
Origins: From Farmland to Neighborhood
The land that would become Calvert Hills has roots stretching back to the colonial era. Much of College Park—including Calvert Hills—was originally part of vast estates and farmland shaped by generations of Maryland’s earliest families. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area underwent a significant transformation, sparked by the expansion of the railroad and the subsequent suburbanization around Washington, D.C.
The true founding of Calvert Hills as a distinct neighborhood is tied to the vision of the Calvert family. The Calverts, whose ancestors were instrumental in the founding of Maryland, purchased and subdivided land in the early 1900s to create a new residential enclave south of Calvert Road. Their intent was to strike a balance between pastoral tranquility and accessibility to the growing city. The legacy of this vision is still visible today in the careful layout and enduring character of the streets and homes.
How Calvert Hills Got Its Name
Calvert Hills is hardly shy about its historic namesake. The Calvert family’s influence looms large, from the neighborhood’s moniker to street names like Calvert Road, which serves as a main artery through the area. The name itself is a nod to the family’s prominence and their hopes that the neighborhood would uphold the Maryland tradition of community-minded development. The "Hills" portion of the name references the gentle rolling landscape that defines this part of College Park—a charming, natural feature that first drew residents seeking respite from the city’s bustle.
Key Historical Milestones
Throughout the decades, Calvert Hills has been at the crossroads of regional history:
- Early Growth (1910s–1930s): Initially, the neighborhood grew as streetcar lines made suburban living feasible for city workers. Historic trolley corridors, like those near the present-day Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail, recall an era when residents could easily commute into Washington, D.C.
- Post-War Changes (1940s–1960s): Like much of America, the neighborhood saw a boom after World War II. Dutch Colonial and Craftsman homes sprang up along streets like Amherst Road and Bowdoin Avenue, adding to the architectural patchwork that defines Calvert Hills today.
- Community Advocacy (1970s–1990s): Residents played an active role in local governance, protecting green space like Calvert Park and resisting disruptive infrastructure projects. By banding together, Calvert Hills secured its reputation as a neighborhood where neighbors care for one another and the integrity of their streets.
Notable Landmarks and Iconic Sites
Calvert Hills isn’t just adored for its homes—it’s also cherished for its landmarks and community spaces:
- Calvert Road School (now the College Park Community Center): A pillar of community life since the early 20th century, the former Calvert Road School now serves as the College Park Community Center—a cherished venue for local gatherings, youth programs, and neighborhood events.
- Calvert Park: Found at the heart of the neighborhood along Dartmouth Avenue, Calvert Park is a peaceful green retreat. Its open fields, playground, and shady trees are beloved by families, dog-walkers, and athletes alike, providing a natural anchor for community life.
- The Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail: This multi-use path follows the historic streetcar right-of-way, linking Calvert Hills to the rest of College Park and neighboring Hyattsville. The trail is a living reminder of how transportation shaped the neighborhood—and today it’s a favorite for walkers, runners, and cyclists.
- Historic Homes: With bungalows, Tudors, and charming brick Colonials, Calvert Hills is a living showcase of early- and mid-century American residential architecture. Some homes date back to the 1910s, their original details lovingly preserved.
Evolution Through the Decades
Change has always come gently to Calvert Hills. The tight-knit neighborhood character remains, but there have been shifts as new generations make their mark:
- Demographic Diversity: Once home almost exclusively to white-collar professionals, Calvert Hills has become more diverse and inclusive, with families from around the world making it their own. Its proximity to the University of Maryland brings a youthful energy and fosters cross-cultural connections.
- Sustainability and Green Initiatives: In recent years, residents have pushed for environmentally minded improvements, from native plant gardens and rain barrel installations to the continued preservation of mature trees and green spaces.
- A Strong Civic Association: The Calvert Hills Citizens Association has consistently advocated for thoughtful development, infrastructure improvements, and the unique needs of both longtime residents and newcomers.
What Makes Calvert Hills Special
Ask anyone who’s lived in Calvert Hills what sets the neighborhood apart, and you’ll likely hear about the small-town feel in the middle of the city, the neighborly waves from porch swings, and the annual block parties that draw generations together. Whether it’s taking a stroll down Princeton Avenue, enjoying a picnic in Calvert Park, or sharing a chat at the community center, daily life in Calvert Hills is marked by enduring relationships and a gentle respect for the past.
In a world that often moves too fast, Calvert Hills remains a treasured reminder: that history lives best when it’s shared, cherished, and carried forward by the people who call a place home.