The Washington Square Neighborhood

The Washington Square Neighborhood. . , Early in the 20th century, neighbors in the new community surrounding the undeveloped land at El Molino Avenue and Washington Boulevard recognized the need for a park and petitioned the City to procure the 3.1-acre vacant lot for a public park. The land eventually was purchased in 1921 for $8,500, one-fifth of which was contributed by residents. It was dedicated on April 30, 1921, as Washington Park with the planting of six "Memorial Oaks," three of which still stand. , Washington Park is an integral part of the Washington Square Landmark District, which was formed in 2003. This district recognizes and protects the park along with the historic homes and churches that line its streets. This community includes 247 contributing homes built from 1885 through 1942. These include a two-story Settlement House from 1885, 35 craftsman-style homes built before World War I, and a variety of revival styles built from the 1920s to 1942. , The earliest residents of this diverse neighborhood included middle and working-class families. In addition to the historic architecture of this neighborhood, Washington Square boasts beautiful tree-lined streets including live oak on Hudson, camphor on Belvidere, and palm on Palm Terrace. Many of the large trees are over 100 years old.