) ) ) ) A MASTER PLAN FOR PA I I ERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND J ) )
CITY OF BALTIMORE OEPARMENT OF RECREATION AND PARKS CAPITAL PRo.JECTS AND PLANNING DIVISION
JANUARY I 998
A MASTER PLAN FOR PAll ERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND
prepared in collaboration with: City of Baltimore Department of Recreation and Parks Capital Projects and Planning Division
by: Rhodeside and Harwell, Incorporated Delon Hampton & Associates, Chartered A. Morton Thomas and Associates, Inc. Charles E. Beveridge, Historical Consultant
• January 1998 • • • 0 0 a C) • •
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CITY OF BALTIMORE OFFICE OF THE MAYOR 250 City Hall KURT 1.. SCIIMOKE, Mayor Baltimore, Maryland 21202
October 10,1997
Dear Reader:
Baltimore has a rich legacy of open spaces and recreational facilities. For over 150 years, Patterson Park has served the diverse recreational needs of Southeast Baltimore and it remains the heart of its neighborhoods.
I congratulate each of you who volunteered your time to participate in this master plan-- an important stage in mapping the park's future. This plan is a symbol of the kind of partnership between the City of Baltimore and its citizens which will protect our open space legacy for the future.
7:ely, lf::L~c~ • Mayor I DEPARTMENT OF RECREATION CITY OF BALTIMORE AND PARKS THOMAS V. OVERTON, ACTING DIRECTOR KURT L. SCHMOKE, Mayor I>R . RAI.I'II W E. JONES. JR . BUILDING .llllll Ensl Drive - Druid llill l'nrk, Bnhimurc, Mnrylnnd 21217
September 24, 1997
Dear Reader:
Patterson Park is Baltimore's oldest and most intensively used green space. The residents of Southeast Baltimore have demonstrated their desire and commitment to sustaining the park as a centerpiece of their community through their active and vocal participation in the planning process that formed the basis for this master plan.
The genius of Patterson Park lies il~ the successful marriage of a historically rich pastoral landscape with contemporary recreational facilities. With this plan we can continue this tradition with sensitive renovation of historic elements and recreation facilities as well as adaptations designed to help the park function better for today's users. We thank all those who worked with us to develop the visionary plau expressed in these pages and look forward to continuing the partnership we have begun.
Sincerely, (l~k..-"\.-~8- ·c~\:=~~~ Thomas Overton Acting Director • June 1, 1998
Dear Reader,
This report is the culmination of a collaborative effort between community residents in southeast Baltimore and Baltimore City government representatives.
Throughout the process, people who love Patterson Park actively participated in public and community meetings, discussing issues of facilities, park use, and marketing. Of special interest was the renovation of the "Boat Lake." At the conclusion of the process, community members made recommendations about what projects should take priority in Patterson Park's renovation.
Interest in Patterson Park is so great that a new park advocacy group, the "Friends of Patterson Park," has formed. We foresee our role as assisting and working together with Baltimore City agencies to make Patterson Park the best park in the city. We also envision raising funds to support special projects for the park.
We would like to thank the Abell Foundation for their generosity in funding the printing of · additional copies of the master plan for use by the Friends of Patterson Park. We welcome the interest and assistance of park advocates.
Sincerely, - • • 0 0 0 0 •0 • • 0 • • • • A MASTER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE. MARYLAND
Project Team CITY OF BALTIMORE PROJECT TEAM Historic Preservation Lampl Associates Department of Recreation and Parks Elizabeth fo Lampl Thomas Overton, Acting Director Engineering and Hydrology Capital Projects & Planning Division Delon Hampton & Associates Gennady Schwartz, Chief Myra Brosius, Project Manager Photogrammetrlc Mapping Services A. Morton Thomas & Associates Department of Planning Photogrammetric Data Services Urban Design Division, Reproduction Management
CONSULTANT PLANNING TEAM
Landscape Architects and Planners Rhodeside & Harwell, Incorporated Elliot Rhodeside Faye B. Harwell Kirsten Heasletj I us tin Dollard Tom Fein Jennifer Smith Steven Schukraft Chappell Wescoat Historian Charles E. Beveridge A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND
Acknowledgments
A spirit of partnership was considered essential to the success of the Patterson Park Master Plan. We gratefully acknowledge all of the members of the community who volunteered their time as members of the Master Plan Advisory Committee during Phase II: Plan Synthesis.
Barbara Baynes George Holland Bob Murrow Mr. & Mrs. Bob Best John Huppert John Phelps Bonnie Brobst Alexis Johns ClintRoby Dennis Burns John Johnson MaryRoby Joseph Citrano Florence Kulbicki Bard Stebbins Virginia Fowble George Lambilotte Kitty Thompson Toni Francfort Marshall J.Macks Dan. Tracy Carroll Hartke Jennifer Morgan Jackie Watts Michael Hendrick Susan Murray Karen Weiss
Additional assistance was volunteered by members of the following committees during Phase 1: Inventory and Analysis. Individuals serving on each of these committees can be found in Appendix 1.
Natural Resources Recreation and Users Physical Features Promotion and Marketing
The staff of the University of Maryland Urban Studies and Planning Program under the skillful direetion of Sidney Brower were partners in designing, implementing, and analyzing the user observations and neighborhood telephone survey. Ed Strocko was the dedicated staff person and Sara Merriman directed the production of the report, Patterson Park-How People Use It and Feel About It.
• A MASTER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND
Table of Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY •..•••••••...••....•....••••••.••...••.•...... •••...... •.•....•..••....•••....•..••....••..••...... •....••..••••••••••••••••••...I
CHAPTER 1 : INTRODUCTION
The Master Planning Process ...... 1
Objectives for Preservation and Improvement of Patterson Park ...... 2
CHAPTER 2: HISTORY OF THE PARK
The Public Walk ...... 3
Before the Public Walk ...... 3
The Public Walk as Part of Baltimore's Open Space Tradition ...... 4
The Park Begins to Grow ...... 5
The Civil War Era and the 1860s Park ...... 5
The Country Park ...... 6
The American Recreation Movement ...... •...... 7
The Modern Era ...... 8
Looking Forward ...... 9
CHAPTER 3: EXISTING CONDITIONS Geology ...... 10
Solls ...... 10
Hydrology ...... 10
I A MASlER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND
Topography ...... 11
Vegetation ...... 11
Bird Habitat ...... 12
Access and Clrculatlon ...... 13
Drainage lnfrastructure ...... 15
Building and Structures...... 16
Site Furnishings ...... 17
Recreation Facilities ...... 18
User Profile ...... 19
CHAPTER 4: PARK PRESERVATION AND IMPROVEMENT STRATEGIES
Recommendations for the Whole Park ...... 24
Recommendations for Park Zones and Precincts ...... 30
CHAPTER 5: IMPLEMENTATION AND PHASING Background ...... 40
Recommendations ...... 40
CHAPTER 6: COST ESTIMATE
Background ...... 41
The Whole Park ...... e ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 41
The Park Perimeter ...... 42
The Nineteenth Century Park ...... 44 The Recreation Park ...... 44 • • A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND
Table of Figures
1. Land Acquisition Diagram
2. View of Patterson Park Facing East Showing Rodgers' Bastion at Center Left
3. 1881 Map of Patterson Park
4. Circa 1899 Map of Patterson Park
5. 1915 Plan of Patterson Park Prepared by Olmsted Brothers
6. 1928 View of the Music Pavilion
7. Circa 1960 Map of Patterson Park
8. The Trees of Patterson Park West of Linwood Avenue, 1887-1995
9. Circa 1915 Tree Canopy 1o. 1996 Tree Canopy 11. Taurus Fountain at Northern Terminus of Mall
12. Existing Site Furnishings
13. Park Use for Sunday, July 9, 1995
14. The Master Plan for Patterson Park
15. Precincts and Zones
16. Proposed Flowering Trees A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND
17. Proposed Evergreen Trees
18. Locations of Site Furnishings
19. Typical Site Furnishings
20. Typical Site Furnishings
21. The Heart of the Park
22. The Maintenance Complex and Community Gardens
23. View of Rehabilitation of Stables Building and Taurus Fountain Sculpture from the Former Kiddie Pool
24. The Mall and Conservatory Site
25. Section Through Restored Mall, Looking North
26. Section Through Gough Street Gate, Looking East
27. City of BaHimore Topographic Survey
28. Lake in Patterson Park
29. Early Views of Patterson Park Lake
30. The Boat Lake
31. Section Through North End of Restored Boat Lake, Looking East
32. View of Restored Boat Lake and Pavilion, Looking Southwest
33. The Casino and Virginia Baker Recreation Center
34. Section Through Renovated Casino Site, Looking North
35. The Field House and Pool Complex A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND
BIBILIOGRAPHV
APPENDICES
1. Patterson Park Master Plan Phase 1: Inventory and Analysis Committee Members
2. Patterson Park Chronology
3. Patterson Park Bird Species
4. Results of the 1996 Water Sampling In Patterson Park Boat Lake
5. Recommended Trees Adapted from Historical Lists
6. Patterson Park Tree Inventory: 1887, 1915, 1995
7. Historical Trend of Trees In Patterson Park
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Executive Summary
Patterson Park is one of the oldest public and those citizens and organizations that care parks in the nation and has a rich history. about the park will be necessary to fully OBJECTIVES William Patterson donated the first six acres rehabilitate Patterson Park. The plan supports four objectives: for a "public walk" in 1827-- a quarter century prior to the American Parks Movement. The plan includes history, inventory and • Preserve and enhance the historic Significant historic activities occurred on this analysis of the existing conditions, followed integrity of the park. site dating from the 18'h century when citizen by a chapter of park preservation and soldiers deterred the British in the war of improvement strategies. Recommendations • Preserve and enhance the site's natural 1812. include strategies to be applied park-wide as resources. well as considerations for specific zones. The 155-acre park is now Baltimore's most • Preserve and enhance present recreational intensively used greenspace and plays a vital VISION functions, modifying facilities and role in the lives of the people of southeast circulation patterns to support Baltimore and the region. The park has Park constituents crafted a vision to guide the contemporary recreation needs in a safe, suffered a long period of decline, similar to planning process: pleasant and orderly environment. the plight of parks in other northeast cities. Even so, Patterson Park remains a beautiful Working together, we can sustain Patterson Park as a beautiful natural environment, an important • Restrict vehicular access to limited areas green oasis with a unique marriage of pastoral of the park, revise site features to conform scenery and a diversity of well-used athletic historic monument and a first rate recreational focility for future generations. to this objective and protect the park and facilities. its users from the impact of vehicles. The Baltimore City Department of Recreation Through thoughtful use of our precious resource and Parks with the citizens of Southeast we can enjoy an urban oasis where people use the Baltimore developed a long-term vision for park sensitively and with mutual respect towards rehabilitating the park, as reflected in this each other. master plan. While some funds are available to begin, the full realization of the plan will By understanding the whole of Patterson Park, we require significantly more resources. A can invest in and manage the site to better serve creative partnership between Baltimore City the community and ensure the park's long-term • integrity. A MASTER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK /N BALTIMORE. MARYLAND
Buildings and Structures visitor services and park rangers for the RECOMMENDATIONS: THE WHOLE PARK oversight and security of park and its users. Design Guidelines Rehabilitate all historic buildings and structures and develop a long-term Partnerlng Structures and buildings which contribute to maintenance plan. Build a new concession the historic integrity of the park should be stand near the Pagoda, a new bathhouse, Establish public/private partnerships to (1) rehabilitated using standards found in US fishing pavilion, and rest room facility. allow public input in issues related to parks SecretanJ of the Interior (USSI) Guidelines for the maintenance and management; (2) increase Treatment of Historic Properties and USSI Site Furnishings volunteerism; and (3) raise additional Guidelines for the Treatment of Historic revenues for maintenance and programming. Remove existing low-intensity arc lamps Landscapes. New construction and furnishings throughout the carriageways and replace with should be sensitive in scale, design, and pedestrian-scale historic light standards in materials to the historic context of the park. selected areas-- including the park perimeter. RECOMMENDATIONS: PARK ZONES Vegetation Provide significantly more benches and trash cans in locations convenient and comfortable The Perimeter Restore the tree canopy to the historic for park users. Repair or replace existing numbers by planting nearly 1,000 trees park benches where locations are appropriate. Rehabilitate each of the park entries by: wide. Establish flower and shrub beds in a Provide a sensitively designed park sign restoring gateways and pathways, providing limited fashion as shown in the plan, only system including way finding, rules, and sensitively designed park name and rules when adequate maintenance can be arranged. interpretation. Rehabilitate drinking signs, adapting curb-cuts to conform with Improve vegetation management to assure fountains vehicular access plan, redesigning barriers to longevity and health of trees, shrubs, grass, be more aesthetically appealing, and adapt and herbaceous plants. Programming entries for accessibility to the physically challenged. Significantly increase the number Access and Circulation Retain the present distribution of uses in the of benches and trash cans. park, with the exception of adding a beach Retain the major historic framework intact, volleyball facility. Avoid introducing The Heart of the Park (I.e. the northwest rehabilitating existing pathways with additional uses, which give proprietary use of quadrant) materials appropriate to the historic period of sections of the park to a single user-group. reference. Reorganize some pathways to Restore all the historic buildings, pathways, enhance the function and order of the site. Maintenance and Management and structures. Re-establish shrub beds and Limit vehicular access to service, emergency, remove fencing at the base of the Pagoda. Establish a Park Administrator position to or permitted users and adapt entryway curbs Construct a small building across from the oversee all aspects of park programming and and barriers to control access in an Pagoda at the site of the extant little casino for management. Establish a Park Manager to aesthetically appropriate manner. food concessions, catering, and rest rooms. • oversee a dedicated maintenance crew, Renovate the White House, continuing the Infrastructure and Drainage housing only Patterson Park staff and tenancy of Banner Neighborhoods, and also equipment in the park. Improve standard accommodate park- related programming Rehabilitate drainage infrastructure, giving maintenance practices, especially vegetation such as a police substation, offices for the first priority to the lake watershed. management and trash pick-up .. Provide Friends of Patterson Park or meeting and
II A MASTER PLAN rOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE. MARYLAND
exhibit space. Rehabilitate the fountain and Collaborate with the Commission on Aging adapt it to a recirculating system. during the renovation of the Casino for adult day-care. Revise the vehicular access to the The Maintenance Complex and Community Casino, relocating parking to the rear and Gardens eliminating use of the brick diagonal pedestrian mall by vehicles. Encourage Designate the maintenance complex for community meetings to be located at the housing crews and equipment for a Patterson Virginia Baker Recreation center, instead of Park- dedicated staff only. Retain the Casino, to reduce use pressures caused by programming of the "stables" as a park vehicles. Upgrade parking and pedestrian maintenance office, demolish concrete block access to the Recreation Center. shed and replace with a smaller structure, and integrate the existing historic building into the The Recreation Park park landscape. Enlarge the community gardens and revise the fencing. Stabilize the Field House from further deterioration and rehabilitate the building for The Mall a community use. Simplify and rehabilitate the pedestrian pathways and fencing. Restore the mall, replacing extant features Replace the existing pool and bathhouse such as the large urns. Construct a pavilion at complex with a new facility sized to the mall's terminus reflective of the pavilion accommodate present use levels and once located there. Provide a custom providing the appropriate amenities for the designed play environment and rest rooms at community. Upgrade and renovate all the present playground site. existing recreation facilities. Provide a year round shelter for the ice rink. Retain the major The "Boat Lake" pathway system in the eastern park annex Investigate management and design and trees. Remove the concrete gutter at the alternatives to improve the water quality and base of the slope. habitat of the lake. Prepare and implement a design and management plan which will improve the water quality for fish habitat, maintain a balance between emergent wetland and open water habitat, and improve safe access to the lake edge. Provide a pavilion reflective of the extinct historic structure. Install a fountain in the same location as the historic site . • The Casino and VIrginia Baker Recreation Center
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Chapter 1: Introduction
A description of the planning process
D. Collect and review data and Phase 3: Alternatives THE MASTER PLANNING PROCESS information about the history and The Master Planning process for Patterson current condition of the park. A. Prepare alternative concepts, based Park commenced in spring of 1995, under the upon programmatic needs and E. Document (in plan and narrative opportunities and constraints. direction of the Department of Recreation formats) existing conditions data and Parks (DRP) and the Division of Capital about the park, including geology, B. Receive feedback onalternatives and Projects & Planning. TI1e consultant joined in topography, and hydrology; generate a preferred alternative site the collaboration in the winter of 1996. TI1e vegetation and wildlife; access and plan. planning team established a five phase circulation; infrastructure; buildings procedure for preparing the Master Plan. and structures; site furnishings; Phase 4: Draft Master Plan These phases and brief description of the recreation facilities; profile of users; A. Prepare draft park development plan tasks involved are described below: and maintenance and management. illustrating areas and elements to F. Develop programmatic needs list for conserve as well as new construction. Phase 1: Inventory inclusion with the Master Plan. B. Revise draft based on input from the A. Organize citizen committees to assess DRP and the public. the condition of the park, including Phase 2: Analysis physical features; natural resources; C. Prepare preliminary cost estimate A. Analyze the inventory to determine and phasing plan. recreation activities; and users. areas where change may be Establish a Friend's Group. appropriate due to deterioration or Phase 5: Final Master Plan B. Conduct a systematic observation of use. A. Finalize Master Plan, cost estimate, users and a telephone survey in B. Consolidate findings of the inventory and phasing plan. collaboration with the University of to establish an opportunities and B. Adjust Plan and recommendations Maryland's Urban Studies and constraints analysis. Planning Program. based on comments from the DRP C. Form a Citizen Advisory Committee and the public. C. Prepare surveys and base maps. with representation throughout the C. Prepare Master Plan report. • community. • A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE. MARYLAND
Throughout the development of the Master • Identify areas of the park requiring Plan, the DRP and consultant team has held various levels of protection or change numerous meetings in the park with the (e.g., preservation, conservation, Advisory Committee and public. The plans, modification, new construction). cost estimate, and planning strategies have all been modified and adjusted during the process to respond to concerns expressed during these meetings. Finally, surveys have been conducted to identify programmatic concerns as well as priorities for implementation and phasing.
In summary, the Master Planning process has been a collaborative effort made by the DRP, the planning team, the Advisory Committee, and the public.
OBJECTIVES FOR PRESERVATION AND IMPROVEMENT OF PATTERSON PARK At the outset of the project, the DRP established a number of objectives to serve as the framework for the Patterson Park Master Plan. The objectives reflect the need identified by the DRP to preserve the historic quality of the park while, at the same time, provide a safe environment that supports recreational usage. The objectives for the Patterson Park Master Plan include:
• Establish a collaborative planning process between the Department of Recreation and Parks, the Advisory Committee, the public, and the planning team; • Formulate a baseline of understanding of the history and significance of Patterson Park; and
2 • A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND
Chapter 2: History of the Park
A history of Patterson Park from 1827 to today
For over one and a half centuries, Patterson Patterson Park is a unique reflection of acquisitions until the last purchase was made Park has served the urban recreation needs of the changing ideals of American leis11re in 1907 (Figure 1). Now 155 acres in size, the a population with varied cultural, ethnic, and over thecourseof100 years ... it is the park reflects a legacy that probably exceeded economic backgrounds. Throughout this first and only known 'public walk' in the even Patterson's original expectations and long history of diverse uses, affected by city, and .. .it is one of two parks that has endeared his name to many dramatic changes in America's political, originally established under authority of generations of Baltimoreans. social, and cultural conditions; the park has Ordinance No. 227, approved June 4, retained its overall integrity and most areas 1860, which established the first Park The evolution of Patterson's site from the of Patterson Park remain functionally and Commission. Patterson Park, along with original six acres to the park as it exists today historically intact. The park retains a Druid Hill Park, reveals Baltimore's is marked by three major stages of coherent identity and sense of place, and is a stature as one of the earliest cities itr the development: the Public Walk, the Country strong example of a designed landscape of countn; to embrace the new countn; park Park, and the Recreation Park. These stages the years 1827 to 1925. Lampl Associates, in tradition spawned by Cetrtral Park in reflect both local and national trends and are a summary of the historic significance of 1857 (Lampl Associates, NRHP influenced by social history as well as trends Patterson Park, states: Report). in the approach to the design of the American Landscape. Patterson Park is culturally significant THE PUBLIC WALK within the context of '19th and 20th A "public walk" for enjoyment by the citizens BEFORE THE PUBLIC WALK Century Park Planning itt Baltimore.' of Baltimore was first envisioned by William In 1792, William Patterson purchased a 200 Patterson witnessed three major stages of Patterson, an Irish immigrant who came to acre estate on Harris Creek that included all growth, each of which is integral to an America in 1766, became successful in the of the present-day park west of Luzerne understanding of American social histon; shipping industry, and eventually helped to and landscape architecture. From its Street (if Luzerne Street extended through the found the B&O Railroad. In 1827, Patterson origins as a formal'Public Walk' i11 park). Just east of where Luzerne Street donated to Baltimore Town six acres of land 1827, to its romantic development as a would have extended were the banks of on a high knoll with dramatic views 'cormtn; park' between the 1860s and Harris Creek (once navigable and now overlooking the harbor. From this initial 1900s, to its early 20th centun; underground), marking the eastern boundary endowment of land, Patterson Park grew conversion a11d expansion into the city's of the estate. The Patapsco River, which at steadily, augmented by four more major land most comprehensive athletic center, that time lay just south of Fait Street, was the
3 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND
~ ~ ~ ] 1827 Q
1860 1893
Gough Street c. 1910
- 1873 ...... 11---0 FAFlflffiffimfnmn mmmmrr
lAND ACQUISITION DIAGRAM
figure 1 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND southern boundary, and the tract extended system of fortifications called Hampstead 'public parks' in this country'' (Lampl northward almost to the present site of Johns Hill, on this site to protect them from British Associates, NRHP Report). Hopkins Medical Center. The location of the invasion. The battery was a significant western boundary is not clear; however, a deterrent during the Battle of North Point. Baltimore's entrepreneurial spirit also created 1783 survey of part of the estate implies that During the bombardment of Fort McHenry, an impetus toward providing open space for the property extended westward at least to the British had planned to conduct an the public before the widespread adoption of what is now known as Collington Street. overland campaign around the northwest the public park concept. In the early Patterson purchased the estate as an branch of the harbor, but the venture was nineteenth century, for example, private investment for his heirs with money made as deterred by the fortifications at Hampstead developers created squares which were sold a shipping merchant and from arms sales for Hill. TI1ough, unlike Fort McHenry, or donated to the City as speculative the American Revolution. He never resided Patterson Park has not captured the attention ventures in order to increase the value of here or developed the site. of the touring public, it played a critical role surrounding properties. Contemporary in safeguarding Baltimore at that fateful time. parks, such as Franklin Square (c. 1839) and At the time of purchase, all of the property A relic of the original outline of the earthen Union Square (c. 1847), owe their beginnings within the present-day park had already been battery and its curtain walls can still be seen to this innovation; and there is some surveyed (at least on paper) and was laid out today at the base of the Pagoda. speculation that Patterson's donation may under the direction of the "Commissioners of have had a similar intent, though it preceded Baltimore Town." The street pattern these squares by more than a decade. Like established is similar to the pattern of THE PUBLIC WALK AS PART OF the later squares, the Public Walk fitted into rowhouse squares which can be seen today BALTIMORE'S OPEN SPACE TRADITION the proposed urban grid system. It is surrounding the park. The six acres donated Patterson's six acre gift is also notable for important to note that Patterson also by Patterson thirty-five years later being one of the earliest examples in specified in the deed that a strip of land 100 corresponded to two city blocks laid out by Baltimore, and perhaps in the country, of feet wide be maintained, including street survey and were delineated by Patterson what are now known as public parks. When frontages to provide for a promenade on each Park Avenue (formerly Gist Street), and the offered to the city in 1827, no precedent had of the four sides of the donated land. extension of Lombard Street, Pratt Street, and been established for setting aside public lands Milton Avenue. With this layout, Patterson for purely recreational purposes. Going for a Although there are no images of the earliest Park could easily have been consigned to stroll for fresh air, socializing, or exercise was days of the Public Walk, written records strict development, with rows of brick houses limited to city streets or private property. indicate that after Patterson's donation, there complete with marble steps. The term "park" at that time was associated were no major improvements to the site for most closely with the hunting preserves of several years. By the time of his death in Patterson's original purchase included a high nobility in Europe; and so Patterson himself 1835, however, Patterson had seen to it that knoll with views of the harbor, which to this called his gift to the city a "Public Walk." over 200 trees were planted in straight rows day is one of the park's greatest assets. This on the six acres. In 1850, a wooden fence was unique land characteristic also resulted in the Lampl Associates asserts that, "despite its erected around the park and references to the park's involvement in several significant lack of recognition, Patterson's 1827 Walk area henceforth alternated between activities during the war of 1812. The citizens rna y, in fact represent one of the earliest "Patterson's Park" and "Patterson Park." of Baltimore built Rodgers' Bastion, part of a Three years later, the park was formally
4 A MASTER PLAN FOR PA1TERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND presented to the public in a ceremony enterprise to be awarded a horse-drawn harbor-was considered by the soldiers to be attended by 20,000 citizens. The site included railway franchise. Linking these two one of the site's greatest assets. Four trees and benches, and the surrounding requirements, John HB Latrobe and Mayor regiments occupied the site at different times streets on all four sides were graded and Swann proposed a city ordinance which from 1861 to 1863; and from 1863 to 1865, it paved. The earliest image available of this mandated that the company awarded the served as the USA General Hospital at section of the park is dated 1864 (Figure 2) railway franchise contribute one-fifth of its Patterson Park. and Rodgers' Bastion is the only feature from income to the purchase and maintenance of this time in the park's history which is still public open space in the city. This ordinance Amazingly, some park improvements recognizable today. funded both the expansion of Patterson Park occured in the midst of the occupation, and the purchase of Druid Hill Park. including the development of ''The Drive," the main serpentine carriage route through THE PARK BEGINS TO GROW In 1860, the Baltimore City Park Commission, the park. Tite significance of Patterson's Public Walk as headed by Latrobe, was formed to locate and it relates to the Park today is that it served to purchase a large area of land to create a park After the end of the Union occupation, inspire future expansions. By 1860, Baltimore for the city of Baltimore. The Commission improvements continued to the 35 acre park. was caught up in the American Park purchased the Uoyd Nicholas Rogers estate, Drainage improvements were made Movement, which inspired the beginning of called Druid Hill. The citizens of East throughout the site and a lake (smaller in size the park's period of incremental growth. The Baltimore were angered that Baltimore's than the present-day lake) was created nation-wide movement was the result of the great park was to be located north of the city inadvertently due to grading operations that contemporary European concept of and they lobbied for the expansion of exposed shallow groundwater on the site. developing public parks in the style of the Patterson Park. In response, the Commission This feature proved very popular, private "picturesque garden" landscapes and purchased another 29 acres from William particularly for ice skating. Several "pastoral" hunting parks of eighteenth Patterson's heirs. The boundaries of the park structures were also constructed, some of century England and France. Concentrated now became Baltimore Street, Gough Street, which still exist today. mainly in urban areas, the American Park Patterson Park A venue and Luzerne Street. Movement sought to provide city dwellers A number of the significant structures in Patterson Park were designed by George with large parks. Tite first of the private THE CIVIL WAR ERA AND THE 1860S hunting style parks opened to the public in Aloysius Frederick. Frederick, whose the United States, Central Park in New York PARK greatest known work is Baltimore's City Hall, City, was designed by Frederick Law The Civil War slowed progress on the new was hired by the Park Commission and Olmsted and Calvert Vaux in 1858 and park as Union soldiers established an designed many of the nineteenth century strongly influenced the development of encampment on site. This was a difficult structures in Druid Hill Park as well as similar parks in other cities. period for Baltimore, and the Union Patterson Park. He probably designed the occupation was instituted to prevent marble fountain (the first architectural By the mid-nineteenth century, there were a insurrection by Confederate sympathizers. element in the park), which still stands today; number of advocates for green space in Once again, Hampstead Hill was a logical and, shortly thereafter, the Gate House Baltimore City. At the same time, there was place for military activities, and Rodgers' (referred to by the present-day community as also intense competition for a private Bastion- with its dramatic views of the "The White House"). During this same
5 • A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND
VIEW OF' PATTERSON PARK FACING EAST SHOWING RODGERS' BASTION AT CENTER LEFT SOURCE: LESLIE'S ILLUSTRATED WEEKLY, 1861
figure 2 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND period, Frederick designed the Lombard Two important features of the 1870s park no Tite City developed plans to build an Street pillars and accompanying iron gates, longer exist: the Conservatory and the extensive sewer for Harford Run which completing the formal entry to the park and Taurus Fountain. The Conservatory, an would begin upstream from Patterson Park the core of the present Nineteenth Century exquisite and fanciful Victorian glass pavilion and continue to the Harbor. The Parks Park. with a wooden frame, was the first of its kind Commission successfully lobbied to have the in Baltimore's parks. It was kept well first section of the sewer built in Patterson stocked with tropical plants favored at the Park. By 1894, the sewer extended from THE COUNTRY PARK time by the park's horticulturist. Over the North Avenue to the Harbor and to this day, In 1873, the park was expanded to 56 acres in next 100 years, the high-maintenance facility the massive brick tunnel, seventeen feet wide order to create a grander park which would would be rebuilt several times. Finally, in by nine feet tall, lies below Patterson Park, retain the vistas of the site. This property 1984, the final version of the Conservatory, and extends through the park parallel to was acquired again through acquisition from an iron structure in poor condition, was Lakewood Avenue. Patterson's heirs, this time as a result of removed. condemnation. Tite earliest map of Patterson After the death of Augustus Paul in 1884, Park (Figure 3) was surveyed and drawn in The Taurus Fountain was developed from a Charles H. Latrobe assumed the position of 1876 by Augustus Paul, Engineer and General natural spring at Patterson Park in the "General Superintendent and Engineer for Superintendent of Parks. tradition of springs in England. Before its Public Parks." His map (Figure 4), c. 1899, development as a park feature, the spring showcases the influences of the Country Park The 1876 park plan shows that the basic had long been a popular source for drinking era on Patterson Park and reflects the sixteen framework for the western side of the water as well as a gathering place. Located at years of park development which followed present-day park was already in place at this the northern terminus of the Mall, the spring under his direction. By the turn of the time. Developed in the fashionable tradition was impounded in a decorative marble century, the stream valley and marshlands of of Country Parks, it features a curvilinear structure with a bull's head, whose nostrils Harford Run and Harris Creek were carriageway with interconnecting pedestrian spouted water into a marble basin. The reclaimed to form the park's second lake. pathways, a skating pond, (now called the structure was covered by an exotic shelter. This water body was encircled by a series of Boat Lake) and a formal "mall." When built, The spring ultimately was retired and the terraces and circumnavigated by a the Mall, a copy of a feature from Central marble bull's head was eventually relocated carriageway with adjoining pedestrian Park, included large, decorative ums to a stone wall surrounding the oval pathways. containing floral displays as special focal walkway northeast of the Pagoda. elements. The high point at the "Battery of In addition to the considerable grading and 1814" was adomed with a small frame The Park Commission acquired an additional drainage improvements that occurred at the concession building featuring gingerbread 58 acres (again through condemnation from eastern side of the park, Charles Latrobe eaves. As the park grew over the next William Patterson's heirs) in 1882, doubling designed and implemented several important century, this western side would retain its the size of the park to 114 acres. This newly architectural additions to the western park own integrity, existing functionally and acquired land to the east was characterized during the 1890s. The Observatory (Pagoda), aesthetically as a distinct ~rea even as the as "a wide, unsightly and marshy ravine" two storm shelters, and the Casino all park expanded eastward. where Harris Creek and Harford Run contribute considerably to the character of converged, flowing through the property. the park to this day. These structures were
6 A MASTEl! Pl.AN For? PAlTERSON PARK IN BAL:nMORE, MARYLAND
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CIRCA I 899 MAP Of' PATIERSON PARI< ·------·----- .. ------·------figure 4 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND placed strategically in the landscape to would continue in the twentieth century, the It was not long after Latrobe's plan was complement the views and vistas in the size never reached the extent of their finally implemented, however, that it was grand ornamental tradition of the Country recommendations, nor the wishes of many effectively undone as a romantic Park. civic leaders of Baltimore. Olmsted Brothers composition. Three years after had envisioned the park extending to completion of the lake, and two years Lampl Associates describes the character of Highland Avenue to the east, and south to after the start of tree planting in the the park at this time: Fait street at the eastern side of the park northern esplanade and surrounding the (development had already occurred on the lake, the first of several'intmsions' By the tum of the centun; ... Patterson southwest boundary). However, attitudes occurred ... in an unnamed section of the Park had developed into a sizable were changing about the relative value of Extension, a baseball grounds was laid pleasure ground for urban dwellers. pastoral open space versus active recreation off. Five years later ... an entire athletic 'Rural scettenj' was abundant in the facilities as the country and Baltimore were field was laid out in what would have tremendous variety of flora within. on the brink of the Recreation Movement. been a substantially planted esplanade. 'Passive' recreation was available in the The Park Commission was faced with The field contained ~ mile cinder track form of boating, skating, strolling, or balancing these two priorities as they ettcircling a baseball and football field. driving by carriage. Picturesque follies invested in Baltimore City's parks system. The first athletic dressing house, a small [i.e., traditional archite~turallandscape temporan; stmcture, was placed upon the omament of the day], such as the grounds near the fields. In 1902, the Observaton; and the Bastion, allowed THE AMERICAN RECREATION MOVEMENT Municipal Games were held in the people to be transported to another place At the tum of the century, Baltimore, like athletic field and over 15,000 persons or another time. Settees provided for other American cities, developed a new attended. In 1903, the children's relaxation and concerts, enlightenment, attitude toward parks and recreation. At this playground was moved from its Storm all within a pleasing, natural settiug time, play and sports (versus simple Shelter location to [a location near (Lampl Associates, NRHP Report). enjoyment of pastoral open space) were present day Linwood Avenue] in order to While the park provided significant and promoted as a means to physical, mental, consolidate recreational activities in the pleasurable open space for southeast moral, and social health. With this shift came area. Baltimore, the acreage was considerably intense pressure on the parks system to Figure 5 illustrates the dawn of the recreation smaller than the convention established for provide active recreation facilities. These era in Patterson Park. The plan is an the rural parks of the period. Now 114 acres, facilities had very different site requirements inventory of on site conditions in 1915 as the park was less than one-fifth the size of from the pastoral landscapes of the drawn by Olmsted Brothers. Only part of the Druid Hill or New York's Central Park or nineteenth century, specifically the conditions shown reflect landscape Prospect Park, for example. This factor was introduction of flat open areas, the absence of architectural design work by Olmsted noted by Olmsted Brothers, renowned trees, and fencing. As William Norris stated Brothers. landscape architects from Brookline, in 1927, "And so it was that Forestation gave Massachusetts, prompting them to way to Recreation." According to Lampl Between 1905 and 1915, Olmsted Brothers recommend expansion in their report Associates, provided consulting services for the Development of Public Grounds, Greater development of the eastern side of the park. Baltimore (1904). While park expansion The final addition to the park, east of
7 "' MAS"W.R PLAN rou PATIERSON PARK IN BALllMom:., MAIWLAND
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Other The landscape does not indicate, plans by the firm that were only partially however, the desires of the Olmsted The memorable Pavilion replaced the implemented were designed to integrate Brothers that were never implemented. function of the original music stage that was active recreation facilities. These included These include the screening around located northeast of the Pagoda, where an the design of a field house that is still different park areas to shelter features oval walkway currently exists. When the standing, a graded swimming beach on the 'from views from other parts of the park original structure was removed, an oval north side of the lake, bath house facilities, and to increase the effectiveness of the shaped kiddie pool surrounded by a roller and a playground. Olmsted Brothers appearance of several features.' Nor does rink was established. The footprint of this succeeded in providing an elegant design by it indicate thick plantings that were facility has been reinterpreted as an oval which the Tudor Revival brick field house supposed to surround the bath house walkway and seating area. serviced the ball fields and established a wings of the field house. Finally, and to the frustration of the firm, a coherent north south axis between the fields and the THE MODERN ERA lake. On the southern side of the field house path system to link atl1letic facilities tuas were wings which extended at a 45 degree never implemented either (Lampl Athletic facilities continued to be the major angle that enveloped the beach, and provided Associates, NRHP Report). focus of improvements for the remainder of bath house facilities. Their design also Patterson Park was recognized at this time the park's history. Four events had a vital included a baseball field and running track, for its extensive recreation facilities which impact on the present day park. First, in open air gymnasium, and a little children's drew huge crowds of users and spectators. 1940, policy was established to eliminate all lawn. By 1925, Baltimore City's athletic facilities vehicular traffic from the park. Then, in the ouhmmbered those of any other city, and 1950s, the lake was drained, filled and replaced with an Olympic-sized pool in the Although Olmsted Brothers may have many were located in Patterson Park. preferred to treat parks primarily as rural same configuration as the present day pool. landscapes in the nineteenth century, Lampl At the same time that such a high level of Filling the lake made available additional Associates notes, attention was being paid to athletic recreation lands for the development of athletic facilities, Patterson Park received its last facilities. At this time, Patterson Park was in the Olmsteds recognized the role of active element of striking architecture. In 1924, the full use as an urban playground, and the 1·ecreation in Ul'ban e11vironments, and Music Pavilion (Figure 6) was installed near Bureau of Recreation presided over a full were responsive to the Commission's Baltimore Street and Luzerne Avenue program of activities. The park included 15 priorities to make Patterson Park a (presently the site of Virginia Baker baseball and softball fields and 17 tennis pioneer in the active recreation Recreation Center). It is still fondly courts (Figure 7). movement (Lampl Associates, NRHP remembered by many members of the Report). community. The wood, plaster, and steel Just as social conflict marked the 1960s and 1970s nationwide, Patterson Park entered The Olmsted design for the east side of the structure was a circular pavilion with an into a problematic era. In the 1970s, large • park reflects the firm's mixed approach to elevated stage and many glass windows. scale vandalism and arson devastated the • design. As Lampl Associates states, Popular dances and concerts broadcast by the • 6 A MASTER PLAN FOR PA1TERSON PARK IN BALllMORE. MARYLAND ! l': ' •" t I ·' , .. • ~ ' t i I I 928 VI~ 01" THE MUSIC PAVILION figure 6 • A MASlER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE. MARYLAND CIRCA I 9eO MAP OF' PATTERSON PARK figure 7 A MAS1ER PLAN FOR PA1TERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND park. Sadly, according to Charles Walker, LOOKING FORWARD needs of citizens into the twenty-first century, the perpetrators of this extensive property while preserving and restoring one of damage were young vandals and arsonists The recent collapse of the skating pavilion Baltimore's significant historic and cultural from the park's immediate neighborhoods. roof, loss of tree canopy, and deterioration of resources. pavings and infrastructure demonstrate the Yet even as these unfortunate events need to ensure that Patterson Park is occurred, significant investments were being regarded as one of Baltimore's important made. For example, the same month that Utz public resources. In accordance with the Twardowicz Field was dedicated, a five Baltimore Department of Recreation and alarm fire damaged the brick field house and Parks' Strategic Plan for Action, the destroyed the adjoining bath house buildings. comprehensive plan developed for Patterson In response, the present concrete bath house Park in this study marks a concerted effort by was built. In 1972, arsonists set fire to the the Department to base a plan not only on a cherished Music Pavilion, which was never thorough understanding of the park's replaced. Shortly thereafter, the Virginia cultural, historic, and natural resources, but Baker Recreation Center was constructed at on a consensus of park users and community the same site. The final major act of arson groups as well. burned the interior of the stone Casino, which would have been demolished without Patterson Park's unique history of the efforts of neighborhood activists. In the development has resulted in a successful early 1980s, the Casino was renovated, blending of the Country Park with twentieth retaining the integrity of the stone walls, but century athletic facilities. Some of the significantly changing the character of the qualities which contribute to the beauty and windows, railings, and interior. function of the park today are a direct result of the incremental development of the past. The final major expenditure of funds While designers would typically caution occurred in the park in the 1980s under the against such a piece-meal approach to park Urban Parks and Recreation Recovery Act. development, the fact that the western park Under this federal grant program, a new developed its own integrity before the playground was provided and improvements purchase of the eastern park has allowed for were made to the basic infrastructure of the a unique marriage of activities. Today, park. At this time, the children's wading people of southeast Baltimore and the region pool at the western end of the park was can enjoy both the vistas and relaxed pace of converted to the oval bed presently northeast the Country Park to the west as well as the of the Pagoda. athletic activities of the eastern park in a uniquely beautiful setting. The park's rich history provides a strong, unifying structure for future development to accommodate the 9 • A MAS'lER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND Chapter 3: Existing Conditions A discussion of the park's current condition to erosion than the surrounding clay. Thus, texture at the surface with clay one foot GEOLOGY the people of southeast Baltimore are graced below the surface. The eastern section of the The character, physical features, and with a compelling high point at the Pagoda, main park that extends to Linwood A venue development history of Patterson Park are with a view that has attracted people to tile (previously a stream valley and marsh) strongly influenced by the geology of the site. site since at least the eighteenth century. The consists entirely of fill land placed in the Part of the Coastal Plain Physiographic popularity of this high point in the early nineteenth century that contains ash, debris, Region, the underlying rock was formed nineteenth century may indeed have spurred and soil. Recently, engineers hired to assist from the deposits of a historic floodplain and William Patterson to consider donating his in designing a new structure for the Mimi swamp that existed in a previous geologic era first six acres to the City of Baltimore. DiPietro Ice Rink determined that the soils in when the site was completely under water. this area are not well-suited to bearing the The entire site is part of the Arundel Geologic SOILS load of a large building. The park a1mex to Formation and most of the park is part of the the east of Linwood Avenue is a former clay clay facies which are predominantly clay The soils of Patterson Park reflect the park's pit. deposits. However, the high point, geological characteristics. The highest historically known as Hampstead Hill, then elevations of the park in the northwest HYDROLOGY Roger's Bastion, and currently the site of the quadrant are delineated approximately by a Pagoda, is underlain by a sand facies. This line at the intersection of Patterson Park The geology, soils, and development history structure has played a major role in the Avenue and Bank Street to the north of Patterson Park have resulted in a complex park's history and evolution. terminus of the Mall, following the broad hydrology in the park. Historical records of diagonal pathway to tl1e entry at Luzerne the central portion of the park (i.e., between The sand fades can be envisioned as a knoll Ave. These soils are underlain by the sand the Pagoda and the Boat Lake and including of sand deposits that overlies the clay facies. facies of the Arundel formation and as a the Casino area) indicate that there has This sand formation was likely deposited as result have a fine sandy loam texture and are always been an active flow of water beneath the result of a major flood that transported well drained. Immediately to the southeast is the surface soils in this area overlying a the sand from uplands and deposited it in the a strip of land that crosses the park and perched water table (a condition where water swamp area. (The same type of sand includes the Mall, the Boat Lake, the Casino, falling on the ground infiltrates until reaching formation is located beneath Highlandtown, and the Virginia Baker Recreation Center; a clay layer where it collects and flows another high point in the region.) These sand extending to the Lakewood A venue entrance. beneath the surface. Where the clay layer deposits and resulting soils are more resistant These poorly drained soils have a loamy intersects the surface, water will flow out 10 • A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE. MARYLAND creating a spring.) During the park's gently slopes to the southeast, providing a current master plan. Since the park was only development in the nineteenth century, picturesque setting for pathways, six acres in 1835, the major trends were extensive grading was performed in this area, carriageways and the Lake. One hundred established beginning in 1887 when the park filling in ravines and providing subsurface feet below the elevation of the Pagoda are the was 144 acres (i.e. west of Linwood Avenue drainage with oyster shells and clay pipes. playing fields in the eastern park. Formerly a only). Presently, the park west of Linwood The Taurus Fountain, once located at the stream valley, the eastern park is now A venue has 808 trees, half the number that northern terminus of the Mall, was created relatively flat and well suited to the existing were in the park in 1887, and three quarters from a prolific spring on site which pre-dates playing fields. The bowl of the eastern of the number found there in 1915. the park. The Boat Lake, which was annex, a former clay pit, is located fifteen feet inadvertently created in the nineteenth above Linwood Avenue and is elegantly The species composition of the trees within century during a grading operation, is still enclosed by the slopes rising to Ellwood the park has changed considerably since the fed by perched groundwater flows through A venue. Standing atop this slope looking nineteenth century, not only in the diversity every season of the year. westward, one is treated to a sweeping view (i.e. numbers of different species present) but of the park. also in the composition of the tree species. In At the surface, the park east of Luzerne Street 1887, the most predominant species were an does not provide many clues about its assortment of maples: silver, Norway, red, hydrologic history. Formerly the valley of a VEGETATION and box elder. The second most prominent navigable stream, the stream was placed in a Trees have always been an important element trees were lindens, both European and culvert in the late 1800s and the area filled in Patterson Park. The earliest record of tree American. In 1915, the dominant species with ash, debris, and soil. The seventeen planting dates back to 1835, when William continued to be maples, and lindens foot-wide brick tunnel is still in place beneath Patterson planted 200 trees on his six acres of increased in prominence. The maple species the park, and in the 1970s a major public donated land. Had he been able to see his in the 1915 inventory were unspecified, works project augmented this channel with wishes carried out, the Public Walk would though it is known that sugar maples were an additional sixteen-foot-wide culvert called have been densely canopied with 33 trees per planted between 1887 and 1915, adding to the the Lakewood Avenue Storm Drain. For fifty acre or one tree every 13 feet (excluding number of maple species on the site. Species years beginning at the turn of the century, a possible tree deaths). Since that time, the diversity declined by more than half during lake was located here; and today, the former density of trees in the park has steadily this period from 45 species to 21. stream valley is no longer discernable. declined. Since 1915, species diversity has increased by A historic trend of the numbers and species nearly three times to 59 species. Lindens are TOPOGRAPHY of trees in the park was developed for the now dominant, representing nearly one out The topography of Patterson Park may be its master plan (Figure 8). Three data sources of three trees in the park and Oaks are much single most character-defining feature. The were used to establish trends: (1) an more prominent at a density of one out of highest elevations are located at the Lombard inventory conducted in 1887 and reported in every six trees. Maples, on the other hand, Street gateway and the Pagoda; and here, one the annual Parks Commission report; (2) a have declined from a previous dominance of experiences a sweeping view of the park with map of the park dated 1915 which one out of three trees to now only one out of the harbor at a distance, accompanied by a documented tree locations and species; and ten. Of the maples, the box elder has gentle breeze. TI1e western side of the park (3) a survey performed in 1995 as part of the disappeared; the silver, Norway, and sugar I I A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND 3000 -1------60 2500~------50 2000~------40 1500 30 1000 20 500 10 0 0 1887 1915 1995 1887 1915 1995 r1J Numbers of Trees by Year Ill Numbers of Species by Year • 1\-tl!: ~I!:I!:S OF PATII!:RSON PARK WEST Of\ LINWOOD AVENUI!:, I 667- I 995 figure 8 A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND maples have declined dramatically in Avenue Gate; and around the base of the design, with a green, pastoral effect of lawn numbers; but the red maples have increased. Pagoda. and trees predominating (Figure 8). Appendix 6 includes the numbers and The dominant ground cover in Patterson species of trees in the three years analyzed. BIRD HABrrAT Though Lindens and Oaks are the dominant Park is grass lawn, appropriately mown to a trees of the park, Patterson Park has a height suitable for easy pedestrian access For birds, Patterson Park is an oasis in the remarkable and eclectic assortment of species throughout the park. Drawings, middle of some of the densest residential including some rather uncommon trees. The photographs, and postcards of the park show development in Baltimore. While less than 20 largest Amur Cork and the largest Weeping that this groundcover condition was typical different bird species are usually found in Mulberry in the city reside here. in Patterson Park (Figure 11). Although this part of the city, local residents have several areas exist at seeps and broken observed 47 species of birds in the park, and The spatial distribution of trees in 1915 can be drainage facilities where the grass is in poor one quarter of them breed there. seen in a 1996 topographic survey (Figure 9). condition, and there are noticeable eroded The park at this time was characterized by areas around the Boat Lake, the ball fields, The two predominant habitats of these birds groves of trees delineating a sequence of and adjacent to deteriorated pavement; most are the mowed landscape with scattered trees small open spaces. Most of the trees were of the lawn is in reasonably good condition (rarely forming a closed canopy), and the located in the western half of the park and and provides the visitor with rolling green pond/emergent wetland complex. The lawn the eastem side was left open for the space vistas typical of the Country Park. and trees attract many of the common "edge" requirements of recreational fields and species usually found in urban and suburban courts. Currently, the tree density is so Flower beds exist today in a few places, such areas (so-called because these species also sparse that the definition of spaces is less as around the Superintendent's house, where tend to be present in forest edges); however, apparent (Figure 10). they are maintained by members of the the pond/ wetland environment, rarely found neighborhood community, and within the in urban areas, provides a habitat for some Shrubs were utilized throughout Patterson community gardens. Daffodil displays water birds that are uncommon in the greater Park during various periods in history. surround the edges of the park. The level of Baltimore area. For this reason, the number Extant plans by the Olmsted firm also show maintenance, however, is not adequate for of different species that have been observed large masses of shrubs that are proposed to displays in a public park, and the beds often in the park is greater than the number of create the amenity of dense vegetation and to appear somewhat disheveled. Floral displays different species found in three-quarters of buffer the interior of the park from the bustle existed during the early twentieth century in the city. of the city outside its perimeter. Although limited beds near the Pagoda. In addition, today most shrubs have been removed due to large urns with lavish floral displays were a Most of the water birds observed in the park concerns about visibility, park security, and key decorative feature of the Mall and pass through and do not breed in the pond; limited maintenance availability, modest flowers were displayed extensively near the however, three species breed there annually. shrub plantings remain near the foundation former Conservatory. Although these The red-wing black-bird enjoys breeding in and in beds at the Superintendent's House; displays were frequently shown in historic the cattails and its song is audible by the near the Casino and at its foundations; postcards and photographs of the park, the pond's edge; the mallards are prolific, and adjacent to the Virginia Baker Recreation landscape was generally broad and open in park visitors seem to enjoy watching them; Center; at the Linwood Avenue/Baltimore but the most treasured members of the park • 12 A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND VEGETATION Tree Canopy lnlerpreled from Circa 1915 1" ~ 40' Patterson Park Survey " Tree Canopy • CIRCA I 9 I 5 TRe:E CANOPY figure 9 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK (N BALllMORE, MARYLAND VEGETATION Tree Canopy Interpreted from March 1996 Aerial Photograph of Patterson Park "Tree Canopy I 996 ThEE CANOPY figure 1o A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BAL'TlMORE, MARYLAND TAURUS FOUNTAIN AT NORTHERN TERMINUS OF MALL SOURCE: ART WORI< OF BALTIMORE, MARYLAND, I 899 figure 11 A MASlER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE. MARYLAND community may be the elegant wood ducks The Carrlageways remain today, though the Taurus fountain no who breed in cavities in the park trees each "The drive" was an essential part of longer marks the northern terminus. year and raise their families in the park. Baltimore's approach to designing open spaces in the nineteenth century and can be Pedestrian Pathways While the cattail habitat provides cover for seen in both Druid Hill and Patterson Park. water birds, their food value is limited. A The character of the pathways in the western diverse community of wetland vegetation Twenty-five feet in width, the carriageways park, eastern park, and annex differ; this is at Patterson Park would allow passage of two may be more beneficial to a greater number not surprising given the park's incremental of water birds. carriages. Tile first carriageway was development. The complex system found designed to circumnavigate the western park today in the western park is similar to the Of all of the birds in the park, songbirds have and later a second loop was designed around historic layout and is characterized by the greatest population. These species would the eastern addition, creating a "figure-eight'' pathways linking entrance ways with the benefit from a more highly structured design. A traveler could engage in a leisurely many park features. Walker~ had an layering of vegetation. In addition, the birds carriage ride along the curvil.inear r.oads, . abundance of choices in selecting their path do not have access to the water because of traversing the topography Without mtrudmg through the park, and pathways paralleled the configuration of the edge. Enhancing the on the interior park. At the crossing of the the carriageway in only a few locations. In songbirds' access to the water would greatly "figure-eight" was an esplanade th.at addition, the paths were set into the terrain in enhance their habitat. encircled a rain shelter. Here, carnages could such a way as to minimize their visual park and enjoy the scenic view of tl1.e eastern intrusion into the broad grassy vistas of the lake. The original layout of the carnageways park. ACCESS AND CIRCULATION exists today, with minor modifications. Much of the pathway system that exists In contrast to the western park, the original today in Patterson Park was well established The Mall pathways in the eastern park were limited to by the tum of the century, and by 1915 the two walks which were situated parallel to In addition to the curvilinear roads and major elements of the circulation pattern each side of the carriageway. TI1e pathways characteristic of the English were in place. Five principles seemed to have carriageway, pathways, lake, and . Country Landscape style, the Park. guided the design of the circulati~n system: surrounding terraces were one orgamc Commission also favored the creation of a separating carriages from pedestnan travel, unified whole. By 1915, however, Olmsted straight, broad pedestrian avenue, to be providing access from the adjacent urban Brothers had introduced straight lines, axis, called "the Mall." In the 1860s, a promenade street grid, connecting major amenities, and symmetry to the composition as they was constructed in Druid Hill; and in the providing a formal pedestrian mall a11d introduced athletic facilities to this part of the 1870s, the Mall was built in Patterson Park. providing a diversity of choices for park. Still, there was simplicity an~ ord.e~ ~o At the northern end of the Mall was the pedestrians to travel through the landscape. the composition. Today, the athletic factltties prominent and prolific Taurus fountain. By Over time, many of these original and the fences that were added piecemeal to 1915, the Mall was connected to the characteristics have been retained; and, with the park have created a sense of disorder. In carriageway by a broad diagonal pathway a few exceptions, the circulation within the addition, the pathways originally leading from the Luzerne Street carriage park is generally clear and coherent. accompanying the carriageways have long entrance. The Mall and diagonal connection since been removed. Tile eastern annex, 13 A MA~R PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE. MARYLAND relatively unchanged since its original design, entries have been equipped with utilitarian Long-term goals for reorganization has an elegant simplicity as pathways barriers which degrade the former elegance within the department include connect the entryways and gracefully encircle of the entryways. Traditionally, permits have reducing the number of employees the playing fields below. been granted for special events and for who report to the maintenance yard equipment drop-off for athletic activities. in Patterson Park. Enforcement of this policy has been Entrance ways • The Virginia Baker Recreation Center inconsistent, however, and conflicts continue is a destination for daytime and When it was first established as a six-acre in the community,although the majority of evening activities. The facility has a Public Walk, Patterson Park was surrounded people favor restricting cars in the park. by undeveloped land, access was limited to small parking lot which does not one entrance and the park was enclosed by a Six park features act as destinations for cars: meet the demand of patrons. Often fence. As development in the surrounding athletic fields, the maintenance yard, the people attending functions here blocks occurred and the park grew, entrance Virginia Baker Recreation Center, the Casino, expect to park in the park. ways evolved to accommodate entry from the White House and the Ice Rink. These • The Casino now houses a day care most of the surrounding streets. The variety destinations create an attraction for people to facility for the elderly. A shuttle of design styles provides a charmingly park their cars nearby and have different brings the clients to the facility and eclectic personality to the edges of the park, issues associated with them: the present layout of roads and though renovation is needed at many of the pathways does not adequately sites. The entry ways seem a fitting symbol • Athletic patrons often want to park support this function. In addition, to a park that is such an integral part of its their cars near athletic events. the staff parking needs are not met. community (Table A). Enforcement of the vehicular policy The historic paving surrounding the is the responsibility of the Baltimore building has suffered significant Issues Related to Access and Circulation City Police. In their effort to promote degradation from vehicular traffic. Today a positive experience in the park they have taken a rather gei1tle approach • The White House contains offices for Pathways in the park today are an important in enforcing the rules with athletic Banner Neighborhoods and other element of the park experience. More than patrons, resulting in significant community organizations. Staff and any single facility, the pathways are used for abuses. visitors to this facility park in front of recreation by walkers, joggers, rollerbladers, the marble fountain, intruding on this and cyclists. Issues and challenges include • In recent years the maintenance staff historic center of the park. Restricted vehicular access, renovation needs, spatial have been instructed to park their parking on Patterson Park Avenue organization, and accommodating pedestrian cars outside of the park. This makes on-street parking a challenge desire lines. practice has placed a hardship on for users of tllis building. Traffic employees since they arrive to work studies are needed on Patterson Park Vehicular Access early in the morning when the A venue to determine whether surrounding streets are full of parked Since the 1940s, no cars have been allowed parking restrictions can be lifted on cars from the neighboring residences, at least one side of the street to access to Patterson Park without a permit. In and many of the streets have an effort to limit access, many of the park restricted parking for p(_lrt of the day. • 14 A MASTER PLAN FOR PA1TERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND Table A: Entrances In Patterson Park Entrance Dale Built Material/Style Current Slalus Patterson Park Ave./ Lombard St. 1869 (Designed by George Marble; Renaissance Revival Iron gates missing; good condition; vehicular access should be restricted. Frederick and original gate to - 1860s park) Gough St. I Patterson Park Ave. 1893 Rough granite pylons with carved Iron work missing; pylons mark entry which originally was a carriageway but Is crosses. now grass with two adjoining pedestrian ways. Vehicular curb cut should be replaced with at pedestrian scale. Lakewood Ave. I Baltimore Street 1895 Granite pylons; Renaissance Originally carriageway now pedestrian. Bollards objectionable. Central pathway Revival does not relate to street crossing. One bronze light fixture Is missing; Ironwork missing; no slgnage; graffiti. Eastern Ave./ Patterson Park Ave. Late nineteenth century Sandstone; Romanesque Revival Originally carriageway now pedestrian. Ironwork missing; good condition; needs cleaning. Luzerne Ave./ Baltimore Street Between 1894 & 1915 Small granite block; lacks Main vehicular access to park. Entrance does not have a positive sense of entry; architectural character poor quality signage; gate needed. Kenwood St. I Baltimore St. Between 1894 & 1915 Stone masonry; castellated mode Good condition. reminiscent of Jacobean design. Ortmann Field entrance ca. 1910 Iron arch and grill work, brick Good condition; missing omamental urn at crest of arch. piers with limestone coping Patterson Park Ave/ Baltimore St. ca. 1916 (Not the original gate Cast stone; one of three similar. Once a carriageway,now pedestrian, but width allows for cars. Iron lamps missing; at this location) good condition; aesthetic barrier needed. Baltimore St. I Linwood Ave. 1916 Cast stone; one of three similar Lamp and sign incompatible (originally had Iron lamps); condition good to fair due (see above); this one with wing to spalllng. walls. Eastern Ave./ Linwood Ave. 1921 Cast stone; one of three similar Poor slgnage, incompatible lamps (probably once had Iron lamps); good condition. (see above) Barrier needed to limit vehicle access. A MASlER PLAN FOR PA1TERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND accommodate the users of the White including the historic east-west mall places where pedestrian movement is not House. north of the old field house, and the well provided for. One exception includes an pathways on the west and east sides east-west movement from the Lombard • The Mimi DiPietro Ice Rink is a of the lake. Street gate and the Patterson Park daytime and evening destination. Avenue/Baltimore Street gate to the pool. Some users, particularly in the • Twenty different concrete stairs are This factor is not surprising considering that evenings, attempt to park within the scattered around the edges and the pathway system for the western park was park to gain close access to this within the interior of the park. One established before the eastern park existed. facility. Some people do not feel safe third of these are in very poor Some provisions were made to accommodate walking on the residential streets to condition and another fifth require this movement in the twentieth century by attend this facility. some repair. None of the stairs have providing access from the rear of the Casino. hand rails and, therefore, do not meet The present tenant needs for this area of the Renovation Needs current standards of the Americans park make this alternative unworkable, With Disabilities Act. Many of the pathways in Patterson Park need however. significant renovation. The park has had an eclectic assortment of paving materials for Spatial Organization most of its history including: asphalt, asphalt Since the turn of the century, the eastern park DRAINAGE INFRASTRUCTURE block (both hexagonal and rectangular has seen dramatic changes in the By the turn of the century, Patterson Park pavers), brick, and concrete. Each of these configuration of site features interior to the was laced with an intricate pattern of inlets materials can be found in various conditions carriageway. Once a lake surrounded by and clay subsurface drainage pipes. Historic throughout the park: grass terraces, this area is now densely filled records show that active springs created a with an assortment of athletic facilities. In problem for nineteenth century park planners • Asphalt exists in both the the early twentieth century the Olmsted who responded by installing oyster shell carriageways and pathways. The Brothers provided an elegant design which drainage fields, inlets, and pipes. The major carriageways are in good condition, created an orderly setting for athletic framework for the drainage infrastructure but severely degraded asphalt is facilities around the northern side of the lake. was created by the turn of the century and located on the western and southern Since that time, however, over a dozen still exists today. edges of the park annex. discrete projects have been implemented in • Brick and asphalt pavers are found the area without a sensitive approach Most of the drainage infrastructure of the on the pathways throughout the towards a unified whole. The result has been western park drains to the Boat Lake. While western park. All of these pathways a disjointed maze of facilities connected by a technical study is needed to need edging and weed removal, and awkward pathways, and a redundant and comprehensively diagnose the scope of the many of the paths need to be reset inhospitable array of fencing. problem, there are two areas within this due to settlement and drainage system that are known to be failing: problems. Accommodating Pedestrian Desire Lines • Standing water can be found year • Concrete pathways are limited but Given the diversity of options for moving round in an area between the Pagoda much of the concrete needs repair, through the park landscape, there are few and Boat Lake. A test pit revealed a 15 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND six inch clay pipe in this area A venue at the north edge of the park and Buildings and Pavilions completely clogged with sediment. discharges to the old conduit just north of Table B is a summary of the buildings and Eastern A venue. • When turned on, the marble fountain pavilions remaining in Patterson Park that includes the date they were built, their is fed with city water and designed to Over a dozen projects built since 1915 have original function, and their current status. discharge continually to a drainage infrastructure which connect to the Six of the significant buildings in the park conveyance system which drains to major drainage facilities beneath the park. date from the nineteenth century: the the Boat Lake. This system is No major drainage problems were observed Gatekeeper's House; the Stable; the Pagoda; clogged, making the fountain non in the eastern park during sight functional. investigations for the master plan. the Casino; and two octagonal pavilions. These structures were carefully designed and The Boat Lake sited in the tradition of the Country Park The Annex The lake's 35 acre watershed is entirely style of design. Each of these facilities is in within the park and the lake is fed through The drainage infrastructure in the park annex good condition, with the exception of the eight outlets which collect water throughout is fairly simple. At the base of the west Pagoda which is in need of significant repair. the watershed. The two and one-half acre facing slope is a concrete swale. A system of These buildings are an integral part of the lake is believed to be only four feet deep at its a dozen inlets is located in or near the swale charm of the historic park. greatest depth. Presently, the lake is and pipes convey water from these inlets to The most threatened building in the park is populated with a stand of cattails quickly storm drains in the adjoining streets. A seep encroaching into the water surface area as of water was observed on the northern end of the Field House. Built in 1905, and designed by the firm of Wyatt and Nolting of sediments settle froni the watershed. Algal the slope. Baltimore after a concept by the Olmsted blooms are prolific in the summer months Brothers, this Tudor Revival style building is accompanied by noxious odor and occasional BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES fish kills. the only building in the park which The buildings, entrances, and structures of represents the Recreation Movement at the Patterson Park are an integral part of the life turn of the century. The Field House was The Eastern Park and style of the park and illustrate the also an important component of the Olmsted Part of the drainage infrastructure of the cultural evolution that occurred throughout Brothers' recreation complex design. eastern park dates from the nineteenth the park's life span. The earliest (nineteenth Originally, the building had two wings on the century. A 17-foot wide brick tunnel extends century) structure, Rodgers' Bastion, southern side which extended diagonally to north-south through the park and transports predates the park. And while early buildings frame the circular swimming beach also water from Harford Run which once reflect the traditions of the Country Park era, conceived by the Olmsted Brothers. extended to the northern part of the city. later additions express the modern tradition Presently, the building is severely degraded Pipes transporting Harris Creek and drain of utilitarian recreation facilities and high due to deferred maintenance. Tite western pipes from the Boat Lake connect to this tech building materials of the late twentieth side is vacant and the eastern side is used by conduit which drains directly to the harbor. century. the Aquatics Division for storage. The roof A major 16-foot wide relief drain was built in had a hole for an extended time which left the 1970s that extends from Lakewood the interior open to the elements and pigeons, ruining the surfaces. Tite hole now has a 16 A MASlER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND Table B: Buildings and Shelters In Patterson Park Building (original name(s) & Date Built and Original Use Current Status popular reference) The Gatekeeper's House; Designed by George Frederick In 1866 as a dwelling and BaMer Neighborhoods CommWllly Corp. resides In building rent-free In exchange for on-going maintenance The Superintendent's House; office for the park superintendent and his famUy. of the facUlty. Building Is In good condition but may need significant repairs In window and roof In near future. The White House Banner Neighborhoods plans to move soon, and an after-use has not been Identified. (2) Octagonal storm shelters; Designed by Charles Latrobe, ca. 1890. These Iron and wood structures were recently re-roofed and painted. Observatory; Designed by Charles H. Latrobe In 1891 In tl1e Exotic and Not currently open to tl1e public and In need of major renovation. Butcher's HUI CommWlity Organization Pagoda Picturesque tradition of park architecture as an observatory. presently sponsoring fWld raising and renovation plan. Stables; Originally built In 1870 and rebuilt after fire In 1881. Houses Patterson Park Division offices. Crew members and equipment provide service throughout Southeast Maintenance Yard Designed by George Frederick for livestock and storing Baltimore. Departmental reorganization calls for a smaUer staff, dedicated only to Patterson Park, to be located tools, carnages, and wagons. here. Structure Is In good condition except for sandblasting that destroyed the surface of the brick. Southwest comer needs repainting. The Mansion House; Designed In 1893 by Charles H. Latrobe, tl1e new General Since 1992, the Commission on Aging and Retirement Education (CARE) has leased tl1e building for Adult Day The Casino 1 Superintendent of tl1e City's Parks, as a new focal point for Care. CARE has received a $.5 mUllan grant from tlte Maryland Department of Healtlt and Mental Hygiene for tlte expanded park. Design Included basement tool house major renovations to adapt tlte building. Project is In design development. and park office, upper story suite of residential apartments and public restrooms. First used as a refreshment stand, and then, In 1899, as Park Commission offices. Virginia Baker Recreation Center Built In 1974 after a fire destroyed tl1e dance pavilion tltat Bureau of Recreation performs recreational programming In tills recently-renovated building. Fadllty Includes eldsted previously on tltls site. offices, two game and meeting rooms, a gymnasium, and stage. Quoit House Originally a wood-frame building witl1 many lvindows, It An aesthetically Inappropriate precast concrete veneer now encases the building. The Old Men's Oub meets was designed ln1915 by tl1e Olmsted Brotlters fim1 and here to play cards and socialize. built In 1925. Field House Built In 1905, and designed by Wyatt and Nolting of The building on the west side, Wlder tl1e jurisdiction of Patterson Park Division, Is vacant. TI1e east side Is Baltimore after tl1e original concept by Olmsted Brothers to occupied by tlte Aquatics Division and used for storage. Decades of deferred maintenance have caused serious serve as a field house for recreational facilities. Diagonal deterioration of tlte roof and Interior finishes. wings once framed tl1e soutltem exposure at tl1e basement grade level. Titese lvings were bath houses for t11e swimming lake to t11e sout11. New Batlt House Contemporary concrete block structure builtin 1970 after Tite building Is ht good condition; however, tl1e htterior floor plan does not confom1 to t11e management needs arson fire destroyed bath house to the nortl1 which was part of tl1e operation. of tlte recreation complex designed by Olmsted Brot11ers. Minli DiPietro lee Rink Original outdoor rink builtin 1967. Tension structure and Tension structure has faUed several times due to snow loads. It appears tl1at since tl1e structure Is not heated It buUdlng renovations perfomted 20 years later (1986-1987). has difficulty shedding heavy snow stomts. Estimates to replace tl1e structure with an alternative were $1.5 mUllan. Eldsth1g fowtdations cannot be used for a heavier building due to Wlstable soUs. TI1e Department plans to replace tl1e tension structure tl1is year. 'Tile Rnudom House College Dictiouary defiues Casiuo as: 1. A buildiug or large room used for meetiugs, dauciug, etc. A MASlER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND temporary patch. Any recreational use of SITE FURNISHINGS changed the emphasis from low level accent this building will require gutting and lighting at a pedestrian scale in a few areas of Figure 12 illustrates the location of existing completely renovating the interior. the park to low level lighting throughou.t t~e site furnishings. Features such as entrance carriageways at a height more charactenstic Some of the modern architecture in the park gates, walls, and fencing lend considerable of parking lot and roadway lighting. New was developed in response to two acts of character to the park. luminaires were installed in the 1980s. arson in the 1970s, from which the park suffered considerable damage. Unfortunate Lighting Landscape Structures casualties included an elegant circular dance Electric lighting has been a tradition in Table C summarizes the date built and the pavilion near Luzerne and Baltimore Streets Patterson Park for over 100 years. The and the bath house wings of the Field House. current status of the landscape structures that intensity of lighting in the park has increased lend considerable character to the park. The Two modem buildings were built to replace continually to the present day. By the tum of these features, the Virginia Baker Recreation earliest element, Rodgers' Bastion, was the century the park had 28 arc lights in the recognized from the beginning by park Center and the present bath house. These park west of Linwood Avenue. Low level structures were designed in the modern designers as an appropriate feature of visual lighting was provided around the Lombard interest in the Country Park. The tradition of aesthetic of an era that favored efficiency and Street Gate/Pagoda area, the Mall, the an absence of ornament. placing structures in the park as functional Casino, and the Lake. Most of these were ornament began in the nineteenth century The last building placed in the park was the serviced by above-ground wires, though CH and is well represented by the marble Mimi DiPietro Ice Rink. Built in 1986, the Latrobe proposed underground electric lines fountain built in 1865 as the first architectural rink's ''bubble" roof was a high-tension beginning in 1885. At the turn of the century, feature in the park. The latest addition, the structure of woven fabric which failed the lights were an elegant "Standard Park Count Casimar Pulaski monument, dates several times under snow loads. Presently, Pole" provided by the Bush Company. from 1951 and is cherished by the local Polish the Department has plans to replace the By 1915 there were 116 lights west of community. damaged bubble with a new upgraded one of Linwood Avenue and an additional47 in the similar design. The 40-foot-tall structure is a Fencing styles in the park represent three eastern annex. The eastern swimming lake styles and eras, including a Victorian prominent form in the landscape, out of scale was a dramatic sight with lighting around its with other park structures, visually out of "hairpin" style, flat iron picket, and entire edge as well as the interior of the lake. contemporary chain link. Many of the context, and able to be used only in the fall The Mall had five poles down the center of and winter because the material allows for landscape structures of the park need some the pavement alternating with huge Victorian level of repair. too much heat gain in the summer months. urns making a dramatic statement. Light An estimate for replacing this type of standards continued along the mall extension structure with a year-round facility made of on either side of the pathway. Entrance Gates more traditional building materials and more The entrance gates of Patterson Park were sensitive to the landscape context was over The present-day lighting pattern was added over a period of 50 years as the park one million dollars. established in the early 1970s when all of the evolved. As the park expanded and carriage roads were equipped with 25 foot development occurred on the perimeter, park high arc lamps every 170 feet. This approach entrances appeared, and they reflect a 17 • • • A MASlER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND EXISTING SITE FURNISHINGS Location of Small Scala ObJects and Site Furnishings 8 Gate/Portal * Statue/Monument/Memorial A FlagPole -•-Fence • .<~>. Light 'I' Athletic Field Light B Bench P Play Equipment • ExiSTING SITE fURNISHINGS figure 12 A MASlER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE. MARYLAND Table C: Landscape Structures in Patterson Park feel to Needs Benches repair. A MASlER PLAN FOR PA'lTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND diversity of styles. The earliest entrance was configuration needs, outfield constraints, and by the Harbor Federal Baseball Club, a actually the only entrance to the 1860s park. programming, including softball; little league member of the Metro Baseball League. Located at the intersection of Patterson Park softball/hardball; little league hardball only; Avenue and Lombard Street, these and baseball .. Table D summarizes the Soccer/Football Renaissance Revival gates are arguably the location, size, and programming of each field. most elegant in the park. Later, in the early Five fields are available for soccer, one field twentieth century, two entrances were All of the ball diamonds are in good for football; and the Utz Twardowicz executed in a picturesque masonry style that condition, although the grass often gets high Stadium is used for both football and soccer is reminiscent of seventeenth century castles. in the spring when cutting crews find it tournaments. The latest entrances, dated from the 1920s, difficult to keep up with the rapidly growing grass. Regrading would be helpful to most Baltimore City has soccer leagues for five reflect the cost savings and flexibility of different age groups under the age of 16 and concrete construction. Virtually all of the fields and new lights would improve the lighted fields. sponsors the Baltimore Metro Invitational iron work, light fixtures and signage that Soccer Tournament in the park in October ornamented many of the gates are now gone, and November. although most of the stone and concrete The softball diamonds are heavily pediments are in good condition. programmed on week nights from May through September by city slow ball and fast Youth football for ages nine through 13 is ball leagues scheduled by the Department of organized into four leagues. Games for these RECREATION FACILITIES Recreation and Parks. leagues are scheduled at several facilities throughout the city including Patterson Park Recreation facilities began to appear in from September through November. Patterson Park at the turn of the century Three 60-foot ball diamonds are permitted when a pronounced change occurred in the exclusively to the Highland town Exchange nation's attitude toward the appropriate use Club, a local little league for six to 12 year Tennis of public open space. At this time, olds which has a well-established presence in The tennis courts are well used in the park Baltimore's Public Park Commission the community. Games are scheduled on and the number of courts seems to recognized the need to provide athletic weeknights and Saturdays. The organizers adequately support the demand. The courts facilities to its citizens; and in 1895, Patterson would like a hood to be installed on the need resurfacing, however, and length of Park was provided with its first baseball backstop and increased lighting for safety play could be extended if lights were grounds. Throughout the twentieth century, (not field lighting). provided on the courts south of Pratt Street. recreation facilities have been provided in Baseball diamonds are scheduled for play on increasing numbers, though the locations of week nights and Saturdays with about five Basketball fields and courts have varied. city-run leagues and several other private The five Patterson Park basketball courts are leagues. Fields are used only about 50 in tluee different dimensions: two are nearly Ball Diamonds percent of the available time because the regulation high-school size, but slightly too There are four different types of ball demand for baseball in Baltimore is less narrow; two are not regulation size, though diamonds and ten separate fields in Patterson intense than softball. Field number 1, there is adequate space surrounding them to • Sterling Sheriff Fowble Field, is maintained • Park based on individual design and extend their length; and one is a half-court • 18 A MASTE;R PLAN FOR PATrERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND TableD: Ball Diamonds of Patterson Park Baseline dimension Location or Name where Lights appropriate YIN Primary Users Softball Ortmann Field (2) y (2) Approximately 15 city-run softball leagues primarily from downtown and southeast Baltimore. 60' East annex N Utz Twardowicz Stadium y Softball and Little League Eastern & Lakewood Avenue (2)/William N Highland town Exchange Oub Hardball H. Schutz Fields 60' Little League Hardball (no West of Utz Stadium N Highland town Exchange Oub softball) ' 60' Baseball (adult) East Annex (2) I # 1 is Sterling Sheriff N (2) Approximately five city-wide leagues, Metro Baseball League, Salvation Army, Harbor Fowble Field Federal Baseball Oub. 90' Southwest of Utz Stadium N A MASlER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BALTlMORE, MARYLAND with space to expand if necessary. The courts annual Boy Scouts of America Spring In the summers, the center offers Fun Camp are well-used, with the heaviest play on the Camporee where 250 boys camp west of the for ages five to 11 with complete larger two courts. Resurfacing is needed and Boat Lake. In May, the park is host to the programming on and off site with after-care the short courts could be expanded to annual week-long Maryland Preakness available for working parents. In addition, enhance play opportunities. Festival sponsored by the local sports leagues in basketball, football, soccer, Highlandtown Merchants Association. June volleyball and lacrosse are organized at the Pool and July are occupied by the annual Polish center. Various recreational classes, such as and Italian festivals, respectively; though in aerobics and dance, can be found here as well The pool is a well-used facility, though the the summer of 1997, the Italian festival was as a study hall where tutoring is offered. A size of the facility exceeds the space relocated. Recently, the Friends of Patterson game room is offered for self-directed play requirements based on use. The season lasts Park and the Parks and People Foundation and the meeting room is available at no from mid-June to Labor Day. Mornings are initiated an annual"Parkfest," an effort to charge to community groups. The reserved for the area Fun Camps, which offer showcase the park and increase constituents programming adapts to the needs of the lessons and free swim opportunities for to advocate for its preservation. community, and it is a well-used facility. children. The afternoons and early evenings are open to the general public. Smaller events are also a regular part of the Mimi DIPietro Ice Rink activities in the park. Once or twice a year, The pool was built in the 1950s, and the the Municipal Concert Band sponsors a Open from October to April, the ice rink is a filtration equipment was replaced in 1973. popular concert in the park. City Springs popular center of activity for both the The entire facility is due to be replaced. The Elementary School and Saint Elizabeth's neighboring community and the broader wading pool is closed due to a problem in the school use the park on a regular basis, and metropolitan hockey community. An ice drain line which the Department of the city Fire Department holds an annual fire hockey clinic teaches the fundamentals of Recreation and Parks has been unable to prevention exposition. Baltimore Road skating technique and rules of the game, and repair adequately. During community Runners sponsors a ten mile run, ~nd in some ice skating lessons are available for meetings, members of the public felt that all years, a bicycle race is sponsored in the park. individuals interested in figure skating. of the present functions (such as diving and Family reunions and picnics are not a regular Open skating for the public is available and wading) should continue to be maintained in occurrence in the park, perhaps because of the ice hockey leagues program the ice the pool complex in addition to the main the lack of vehicular access to the pavilions. continuously. Because of the constraints of pool. A new configuration may be the building, the facility has a limited season. appropriate to meet present-day standards, Regional demand would probably support a Virginia S. Baker Recreation Center including a more efficient and compact year-round facility design and improved functional relationships The Recreation Center is a vital community with the bath house facility. center and has a complete year-round schedule of programs. The center includes a USER PROFILE Special Events large all-purpose room and gymnasium, a The site that hosts Patterson Park has always game room, a meeting room, a kitchen, and been an attractive location to visitors seeking Festivals and other privately-sponsored offices for Department staff. a scenic landscape. In the early nineteenth events are a vital part of the park experience. century, residents came to the high point of Typically, events begin in April with the • 19 A MASlER PLAN FOR PATrERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND the site, now the location of the Pagoda, to The turn of the century witnessed the available from the Baltimore Department of admire the sweeping view of the harbor and introduction of new activities into the park as Recreation and Parks. to obtain water from the area's prolific active recreation was used as a tool to cure spring. the social ills of the city. For example, Attendance Baltimore's Free Public Bath Commission As the site was developed into a public park championed the creation of swimming baths Approximately 2,500 people per day visit in the nineteenth century, Baltimore city at the public facilities, recognizing that many Patterson Park in the summer. Although the leaders embraced the belief of park advocates poorer households did not have bathing park is used throughout the day, between nation-wide that parks symbolize an ideal facilities. However, because the Parks mid-morning and dusk, the park contains a democratic society in which people from all Commission was committed to segregation, minimum of 200 people. At the peak time of walks of life have the opportunity to interact. there were no facilities available for use by activity, 500 to 900 people may be using the While this was the spirit of the park African Americans in early twentieth century park. One of the factors affecting the founders, it is not clear whether the Patterson Park. · variation in peak use is the number of nineteenth century Patterson Park actually simultaneous ball games scheduled in the assumed the role of an urban melting pot, Today, Patterson Park's visitors reflect the athletic fields. Slightly more people can be since photographic images from this period ethnic diversity of the surrounding found in the park on Saturdays and Sundays tend to depict only the leisure class. communities. Recreational experiences are than on a weekday; and while Saturday use equally varied, and range from passive peaks in the late morning, Sunday use peaks Lampl Associates attempts to describe the activities, such as strolling and walking dogs; in late afternoon. Activity on weekdays nineteenth century recreational experience of to active recreation, such as softball and peaks in the evening with a significant visitors to Patterson Park in their description tennis. secondary peak in late morning. of this "sizable pleasure ground for urban dwellers:" This pattern of activity contrasts with Druid Obsetva#onsotSum~rUse Hill Park where weekend use tends to be five Rural scenen; was abundant in the Recreational use of the park was studied times the weekday rate. Though the total tremendous varieh; of flora witl1in extensively during the master planning number of people who visit Patterson Park is [complemented by exotic horticultural process with the assistance of the University a fraction of those who visit Druid Hill, the displays in the conservatory]. 'Passive' of Maryland's Urban Studies and Planning intensity of use at Patterson, a significantly recreation was available in the form of Program. Casual observations were smaller park, is twice that of Druid Hill on boating, [ice] skating, strolling, or augmented with a systematic quantification the weekends and more than four times on driving by carriage. Picturesque follies, of park activities, location of activities, and the weekdays. For this reason, Patterson such as the Observatory and the Bastion, the age and sex of the participants. Over Park may be the most intensely used park in allowed people to be transported to 5,000 visitors were observed on a Saturday, the city. Since most people walk to the park, another place or another time. Settees Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday in July except for certain visitors to the recreation provided for relaxation, concerts, and 1995. The following discussion is based on facilities, attendance is predominantly from enlightenment, allwit11in a pleasing these observations, assuming that the sample the surrounding communities. This pattern natural setting (Lampl Associates, is representative of summer patterns in of use reflects how integral the park is to the NRHP Report). general. A more detailed summary report is daily life of the surrounding communities. 20 A MASlER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE. MARYLAND Table E: Ranking of Dally Activities Observed on July 8, 9, 20, 26th, 1995 •Range of activity extends from the smallest nwnber of people per dny obsetved engaging ht an activity to the highest number of people per day for the four days obsetved . • • A MASlER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND Composition One out of every four visitors engages in by people per acre varies, reflecting these Over half of the summer visitors to Patterson walking, the park's most popular activity. diverse uses. Figure 13 is a map showing the Park are adults, and there are twice as many Visitors usually take advantage of the park's location of users on one Sunday. Five areas, men as women. Only one-quarter of park extensive path system; and at any time comprising one-tenth of the entire park, have visitors are children, and one out of seven during the day, people can be found strolling a significantly greater intensity of use than visitors are teenagers. Teen-age boys throughout the park. the remainder of the park. These areas oubmmber teen-age girls by a ratio of four to include the swimming pool, the Linwood The fourth most popular activity is walking a one. Avenue playground, basketball courts, tennis dog. One out of every 14 visitors to the park courts, and the Boat Lake. While men ouhmmber women with regard to in the summer is engaged in walking a dog, virtually all of the park's activities, the and this group represents one of the most The intensity of use of the swimming pool is greatest disparities are found in active consistent constituents of the park. The five times greater than the rest of the park. recreational activities, such as ball games. heaviest dog-walking traffic can be found in Even considering its short, three-month long Nearly all of the park's basketball the park in the early morning and after 4:30 season, the space devoted to this activity participants are male; and only one in 12 PM, when 25 to 50 people visit with their annually serves a comparable number of participants in baseball (including little pets. Between 7:30 and 8:30 AM, the dog people as the rest of the park on a people per league and adult leagues) is female. Even a walkers sometimes represent as many as half acre basis. non-team sport, such as jogging, is of the park visitors. Nearly two-thirds of the Likewise, the intensity of use of the Linwood dominated by men by a ratio of two to one. dog walkers do not keep their pets leashed. Avenue Playground is more than four times One out of four visitors to the park greater than the rest of the park. This area is Activities participates in active recreation, including popular with children and families and is the Visitors to Patterson Park engage in a wide facility-based activities such as ball games greatest focus of casual play for children. range of physical activity. Table E ranks a and tennis; as well as path-based activities Nearly half of the children who play in the list of summer activities by the numbers of such as jogging. This is one-third the number park use this facility, and one-third of playing observed participants. Park activities of those engaging in passive activities. Of children use the playground at the excluded from this study include fall or these active park participants, one out of five promenade. winter activities, such as soccer, football, and play basketball and one of six play baseball ice skating. (baseball includes little league and adult Tite site also complements the softball fields leagues). at Ortman field since families can visit for the Passive recreation, including walking, sitting, dual purpose of viewing a ball game and standing, lying, unorganized play, walking a Location and Intensity of Use playing in the playground. Over half of the dog, or picnicking are enjoyed by three out of family picnicking in the park occurs here and every four park visitors. Nearly one out of Part of the genius of Patterson Park lies in the in the south end of Ortman Field. four people relaxes by sitting or standing in successful merger of a pastoral landscape the park, and one quarter of this number designed for path-based activities with a The basketball courts have more than four represents spectators at ball games. profusion of built recreational facilities. times the intensity of use as most of the park. Thus, the intensity of park use as measured Half of the players are men, over one-third 21 A MASiER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND 7:30 - 8:30AM _.... ., .. ·...... ! .~~ .:~ ~~~: .\· ~ - ~ .:- l ...... _ .- lt....· ::r '.• .... Legend • One Person * 97 People 4:30 - 5:30 PM /~. .... ·.. ... 7:30 - 8:30 PM - -::_·_._·•• -· j.·'' •: f~\l£;(;: ;~~ :::{~· ~ .. ~ 1_- - ~~· .' ::::.·. - . -·- :··. ·:~: (·':~·.:_ :·~\~ .<... ~. :...~- -·-·. :-- --···-~·I':·... '• 1 :30 - 2:30 PM • PARK USE FOR SUNDAY, JULY 9 , 1995 figure 13 A MASlER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND are teenage boys, and the remainder are of every six people were observed on the There is little community support for creating a children. The three teenage girls who visit pathways. Most of the walking occurs on the separate use area in the park for dogs. the courts comprise only 1.0 percent of the paths, and cycling and rollerblading are also total number of visitors. The courts are used popular pathway activities. Most community users feel relatively safe in throughout each day, with activity peaking the park during the day, despite the fact that after 4:30 p.m. Neighborhood Use and Perceptions most are aware of at least one violent incident that has occurred in the park within The tennis courts have more than twice the A telephone interview was completed for 230 the last five years, and some individuals intensity of use as most of the park; and residents in the surrounding neighborhoods to knew the crime victims personally. Over half although tennis play is a fairly consistent obtain their perceptions of the park. Tilis of the neighborhood park users feel that the daily activity, peak use occurs on Sunday method was employed in order to sample equal park is safe for children, but two-thirds of the afternoons. While the courts are numbers of park users and non-users. people polled feel that their children are predominately used for tennis, they are also actually safer in their neighborhood. Most less frequently the scene of rollerblade, Activities community park users would like park police hockey, and lacrosse practice. Of the members of the community who use the to be hired to patrol the park. park, three out of four individuals walk there to TI1e Boat Lake is the single most popular place Half of neighborhood park users feel that to walk, and its intensity of use is twice the rest attend special events, such as festivals. Half of improvements need to be made to the Boat of the park. In addition to serving as a the people polled like to watch the ducks, use Lake. Most of the complaints made by meditative area for relaxation, the Boat Lake the playground, and participate in some kind of neighborhood residents indicate that they offers the people of Baltimore a wlique active recreation. would like the quality of lake maintenance to opportunity to fish in the city. Wllile people be improved, and the vegetation surrounding fislling represent a small percentage of the total Perceptions of Neighborhood Users the lake controlled. While many residents users, fishing does occur here in spite of the Nearly all of the residents who use the park would like to maintain a balance of habitat inconve1lient configuration of the fencing and view it as a part of their neigl1borhood and most and open water, a significant number of users lake edge. A fish rodeo held in Summer 1997 of them perceive the space to be a neighborhood emphasized habitat over open water. and sponsored by the Department of Recreation park, not a city-wide park. Most neigl1borhood and Parks was very well-attended. visitors visit the park at least once per week. Over half of the community park users feel that automobile parking should be reduced TI1e llillside, wllich is defined as the area Half of the park users in the neighborhood are or eliminated in the park. between the Pagoda, the Boat Lake, and the concen1ed that there are some problems with Casino, has an average intensity of use. dogs in the park that need immediate remedy. Perceptions of Neighborhood Non-users However, the area is a popular place for dog The existence of feces and urine in public areas Most of the non-users interviewed are elderly walkers, where one out of four dogs were are the greatest concerns among neighborhood observed. members of the community, and most of residents, but many people also feel threatened them had been a park user in the past. When by dogs that are walked without a leash. Most asked why they do not use the park, non TI1e single most used type of facilities in the residents are in favor of enforcing the leash law park is the pathways. On Sunday, over one out users cited both perceived park problems and • and mandatory clean-up after dogs by owners. their own age or infirmity as reasons. Half of 22 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND the neighborhood park non-users do not feel safe in the park during the day. Most non users believe that there are problems with some of the park activities in which people are engaged, but that most of these activities are not criminal in nature. Most of the security-related problems discussed by non users tended to be dismissed as related to behavior exhibited by "kids." Only one out of seven non-users said that they would use the park if it were safer. 23 A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND Chapter 4: Park Preservation and Improvement Strategies Recommendations for the whole park, park zones, and precincts Though the Master Plan is not specifically a estimates were then developed along with a been dramatically reduced, and nearly 100 of cultural landscape or park preservation plan, recommended list of priority projects. The the existing 800 trees were identified as changes to a place with such a rich history recommended actions, cost estimates, and · damaged, diseased, or otherwise unhealthy in warrant careful consideration, and the priority list will guide future decisions the 1995 survey, the overall character of the planning team was guided by a strong regarding park uses; capital improvements; park's open landscape, viewed through preservation ethic. The information provided recreation programming; cultural and carefully-placed groupings of trees, still by the Department of Recreation and Parks, environmental preservation; and on-going remains. Presently, the park's mature trees Dr. Charles E. Beveridge, and the summary of community projects. are among its most important assets. park significance by Lampl Associates formed the baseline for establishing historic context The evaluations and recommendations are Trees and significance; and this, balanced with presented in two ways: 1) Recommendations for community interests, guides the majority of the Whole Park is a section entirely devoted to • Restore the park's overall quantity of the recommendations. It is critical that the park-wide systems and resources, including trees to its historic level. recommendations accommodate community roads and paths, vegetation, and Approximately 1006 trees (906 new interests and be sensitive to the site's natural infrastructure; and 2) Recommendations for Park trees plus 100 trees to replace those and cultural history. Zones & Precincts contains more detailed that are presently unhealthy) are recommendations for distinct areas within the required to bring the total number of The recommendations that follow are the park. Figure 14 illustrates the Master Plan for trees to the 1887 quantity of 1,714. result of a highly participatory process. Patterson Park and Figure 15 illustrates Park • Prepare an ongoing tree maintenance Public meetings and forums led by the Zones and Precincts. and planting program that includes Advisory Committee, city staff, and the the use of grant funding and planning team, were held at crucial stages in RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE WHOLE volunteer efforts for planting, where the Master Plan's development. Issues, appropriate. concerns, and disparate visions for the park's PARK future were discussed; alternatives were • Emphasize use of native species with developed and evaluated; and consensus Vegetation distribution and species selection achieved through the creation of a clear The park's character is largely defined by its based on historic plant lists and program of complimentary actions and trees and mowed lawn. Although in the last available historic planting plans. improvement strategies. Conceptual cost 80 years, the number of trees in the park has Trees should be used to provide 24 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND •.'- PATTERSON PARK IN,.,~ CITY 0,. BAL,MOAE, MAR'n..ANO MASTER PLAN ~tCIHC'r.l Kn 0 HEARl' 0,. THE PARK ~~ PEDESTRIAN t.tOtft'S f) TH£ MAI~HAHC£ CQMP\.VC & [> l(NfUS COURI' UQHfS COMMUNITY OARDtHS C> ENTRY UOHTS & PAAJ( !tONS THE MAU. & CONSERVATORY Srrt 0 BENCH£5-Ht'W OR A£PAIA!~ 0 THt &OAT \.AXIl 0 TRASH RECEPTACI.t 0 TH! CASINO & VIRGINIA BAKtA PICNIC TABLE RtCA(AnON CDmA 0 ---- 'tNCt INE"M (!) THE 11EUJ HOUSE & POOL COMP\.LX -I • figure 14 A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND PRECINCTS AND ZONES figure 15 • A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND shade, emphasize vistas, screen • Plant one (1) species of tree on each • Emphasize diversity, hardiness, and elements such as fencing and utilities, street bordering the park so that each drought tolerance in selecting and (in some areas such as the hillside street has a different species of tree. appropriate seed mixes for new lawn east of Linwood A venue) "hide what areas and lawn restoration. • Plant groves of flowering trees where: would otherwise be ... very steep and historic plans include them; accents of • Establish a program for over seeding ungainly" topography (JC Olmsted, color or diversity are desired without and aeration to maintain lawn health. "Patterson Park: List of Trees Planted compromising historic plans; and Historically," July 1906). Except contemporary structures have been Shrubs where illustrated, trees should be placed. flowering trees and grouped informally. • Install shrubs and flower beds only evergreen trees. when adequate long-term provisions • Create informal groupings of mixed • Develop, in collaboration with the have been made for maintenance. species rather than monoculture Department of Recreation and Parks groupings. Plant at adequate • Limit the use of shrubs to special and the Department of Public Works, distances to maintain health of lawns. areas (see Park Zones & Precincts for a street tree planting program for the specific recommendations), such as • Establish a nursery to propagate streets surrounding the park. Park using shrubs to stabilize the slope commercially unavailable vegetation. Commission reports recommend north of the Boat Lake. Sugar Maples. Consider American • Establish an annual program to prune Linden, various oaks, and red maples • Replace the foundation planting at and fertilize existing trees. for such plantings. the Casino and maintain the hedge at • Utilize plant species known to have the Linwood Avenue and Baltimore • Establish a tree labeling program for been planted in the park historically, Avenue Gate in its present condition. the Nineteenth Century Park, so that and/ or noted in the available historic mature specimen trees may be easily • Upgrade/replace as needed the planting plans. identified by park visitors. shrubs and hedges near the Pagoda. • Re-establish historic plant patterns and species mixes. Where historic Lawns Flower Beds planting plans exist, use these as the Despite a limited maintenance program, the The reintroduction of flower beds in the basis for new plans. For example, a park's lawns are in reasonably good Nineteenth Century Park is recommended 1906 Olmsted Brothers plan exists for condition. only in certain limited areas. In certain the area north of the Field House. locations, where historic precedent is indicated by postcards and other • Plant evergreen trees as part of • Continue the maintenance of lawns clusters to define views or create under current practices. photographic views, flower beds would be screening. Work with police and appropriate. (See Park Zones & Precincts for • Cut grass to a four inch height to specific recommendations). maintenance staff to accommodate reflect the historic design and use of security needs. the park and to maintain ease of • Utilize plant lists from Park access throughout the park. Commission reports for flower bed design. 25 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATrERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND PROPOSED FLOWERING TREES • Proposed I 10 100 100 ..a.n. PROPOSI!:D FL.OWI!:RINO TREI!:S figure 16 • A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND PROPOSED EVERGREEN TREES • Proposed • PROPOSED EVERGREEN TREES figure 17 A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSQN PARK IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND • Establish a long-term commitment to • Preserve tum-of-the-century paving • Install curbs along carriageway careful maintenance of the flower materials where feasible. entries at surrounding streets except beds. where vehicle access is required. • Establish a program to preserve Access & Circulation existing paving and repair with • Perform a traffic study to investigate matching materials. whether: 1) restricted parking can be The historic path and carriageway system is eliminated on one side of Patterson one of the key elements that has established Permit Vehicle Access Park A venue; 2) the left turn lane on the overall spatial coherence of the park • Allow vehicle access for service and Patterson Park Avenue and Baltimore today. emergency use, or by permit only. Street could be eliminated; and 3) Linwood Avenue could be made one Pedestrian Paths • Establish the Luzerne Avenue Gate as way to accommodate additional the only gate open to vehicles and parking. • Preserve the existing path system, provide park access permits. particularly in the Park's western half, Infrastructure and Drainage except as shown on the Master Plan. • Increase enforcement of permit rules. • Use asphalt or asphalt paving blocks • Ensure that service vehicles use Prepare Study Plan to Fill Gaps and to match historic pavement for new pedestrian paths to access only those Deficiencies in Data pedestrian path construction and areas of the park not otherwise served Records for all existing utilities should be replace existing concrete pavers with by a carriageway; and that pedestrian assembled into a central location for use in asphalt block. paths are not used for general future planning and engineering design. The vehicular circulation. In particular, records should include: • Improve areas that are not in the pathway west of Ortman Field conformance with the Americans with should not be used for vehicles. • Plans and profiles for storm drains at Disabilities Act. Install ramps at path the park and adjacent streets; and carriageway intersections with • Install roll-over curbs to existing curbs. accommodate service and emergency • Plans and profiles for sanitary sewers vehicle access at the Pulaski in the park and adjacent streets; • Repair and reset existing path system Monument Gate and the Gough Street as needed, and modify circulation Gate. The Lombard A venue Gates • Plans for water lines in the park and where indicated. will be operable and several adjacent streets; • Remove existing brick or brick pedestrian paths along the perimeter • Gas and electric distribution plans module asphalt paving block paths are wide enough to provide access to from Baltimore Gas and Electric where they duplicate adjacent the carriageways. Company; carriageways, and stockpile • Provide low, narrow (4" wide x 3" • The 1915 topographic survey by the retrievable unit paver materials for high) curbs along new carriageways, Department of Parks (available at the use in making repairs elsewhere in parking areas (such as at the Casino), time of writing); the park. and where drainage requires such treatment. • The 1996 Aerial Survey (available at the time of writing); 26 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND • Utility plans and profiles from the • Lead in water-It is recommended transformers, and services to street following construction plans: that the water service in each building lighting including routing of wiring. be tested for lead content, to This information should be added to • The 1961 playground construction, determine if water service piping is the CADD drawing of the aerial leaking lead. survey. • The 1967 ice rink construction, • Flow testing-To determine the • Storm drainage study-A detailed capacity of the water system and to analysis of the entire storm drainage • The 1969 Utz Twardowicz ascertain the level of fire safety in the system should be conducted based Stadium construction, park, flow testing from fire hydrants upon the field survey. The objective throughout the park should be would be a redesign of the storm • The 1981 UPARR work, conducted. The Department of Public drainage system to indicate where • The 1985 Patterson Park Athletic Works conducts this testing. The surface stormwater management Field Renovation, and testing also flushes the lines and could be utilized, numbers of inlets removes rust, scale, etc. from the and drains could be reduced, inlets • The 1987 ice rink addition lines . could be relocated, pipes renovated, and pipe capacity needs to be construction; and • Storm drain condition-The existing increased to prevent flooding. As condition of the storm drains should • Historic plans and reports of improvements to the drainage system be determined, so that collapsed and renovations, maintenance activities, are made, the old clay pipe system damaged pipes can be replaced. This demolition, and new construction should be upgraded. would require TV inspection of the between 1915 and the present not drain lines, including cleaning and/ or • Fire service-Determine if water included above. repair of damaged pipes, manhole pressure and location of fire hydrants Obtain information required for detailed and inlet cleaning and repairs for all within the park is sufficient. analysis and design. Recommended studies drains within the park, including (in priority order) are: those leading to the Boat Lake. Recommended Improvements • Area east of Linwood Avenue • Dye testing-To confirm the location • Field survey-The location of Remove the concrete lining of the of outfalls of the sanitary sewer manholes, inlets, hydrants, lights, ditch around the athletic fields and services from each building, dye storm drains, water lines, sanitary install a vegetative stabilized ditch. testing is recommended. Dye would sewers, gas lines, and electric lines To eliminate wet conditions on be placed into the sanitary sewer at should be determined to include rim athletic fields created by underlying each building and the direction of elevations and elevations in and out clay soils, an underdrain system with flow from manhole to manhole of each manhole and inlet. Record perforated piping should be installed. recorded. This will confirm that each drawings should be used to initially The spacing of the underdrains building is connected to the sanitary define the location of services with should not be less than 100 feet apart. system and not to the storm system. field survey verifications; determine the location and size of electrical New inlets should be installed, with services to each building, the drain lines designed using current • 27 A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND standards. The size of the reinforced • Storm drains-Investigate potential to accordance with the US Secretary of drain lines should not be less than 15 use surface (non-piped) stormwater the Interior's Standards and Guidelines inches. management where possible to for the Treatment of Historic Properties • Boat Lake improvements-Boat Lake eliminate as much of underground and Guidelines for the Treatment of improvement recommendations are system as feasible. Where an Historic Landscapes. underground system is required, found in the Park Zones and Precincts: Prepare a five-year and ten-year make repairs to the storm drain • Boat Lake section. maintenance program for all system with reinforced concrete pipe buildings and structures. Incorporate Ice rink and pool complex with a minimum diameter of 15 • into the park department's operating renovations-Initial analysis based on inches. Entire sections of pipe and CIP programs. limited data concerning existing between structures should be conditions indicate that utilities are replaced as required. Downstream • Clean and repair piers, walls, and available to provide services to these sections of pipe would only be small structures in such a manner as buildings. The current services may replaced when damaged. to preserve historic character. Use be of sufficient capacity. The need for historically appropriate methods Sanitary condition-If any sanitary increased service size would be • where possible. service is connected to the storm determined as part of the design of drain system, it should be replaced Install bollards and curbs as traffic those facilities. • with a new PVC service that connects control devices where appropriate • Expanded community gardens-A to the 27 inch sanitary sewer. and retire inappropriate designed new water service should be barriers. Fire service-Undersized fire lines provided from Patterson Park • should be replaced with A venue to the community gardens. Site Furnishings appropriately sized iron pipe lines. The service would provide water to a The proposed locations of site furnishings are system of yard hydrants for use with Buildings & Structures illustrated in Figure 18. hoses spaced at approximately 75 feet on center throughout the gardens. Recommendations for Buildings & Structures Lighting Improved access roads and paths- • • Repair and renovate existing Improvements to park lighting was a high New inlets should be provided where buildings, including the priority for the community during discussions needed based upon the revised Superintendent's House, Casino, about the Master Plan. configuration of paved surfaces and Pagoda, and bath house. use of surface stormwater Construct new buildings, including • Replace the existing system of low- management techniques. • level lighting along the carriageways Connections from any new inlets to the Boat Lake Pavilion and concession stand, as indicated in the plan. and selected paths with a selective, the drainage system should use brighter system. New lighting, reinforced concrete pipe with a • Perform new construction and proposed under the Master Plan, will minimum diameter of 15 inches. preservation and renovation of provide adequate light levels in the existing buildings and structures in park's night use areas and along 28 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BALllMORE. MARYLAND PROPOSED SITE FURNISHINGS e Lights y Athletic Field Lights • Benches e Play Equipment Jk Ex. Athletic Field Lights to remain ·r [ • • LOCATIONS OF SITE FURNISHINGS figure 18 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND major east-west and north-south Picnic Tables Park Programming paths. • Install modest, vandal-resistant picnic • Retain the location and distribution of • Use decorative lighting standards, 12 tables in areas designated for uses in the park, which (with only a feet high, with a polycarbonate picnicking (see plan). few exceptions) are generally in accordance with historic development "acorn" globe and a painted Use picnic tables that meet the • of the park. Retain the existing park aluminum base and pole; such as the Americans with Disabilities Act uses and locations, but avoid lighting recently purchased for requirements in locations adjacent to Federal Hill Park. The recommended introduction of any additional uses carriageways and paths. globe and lamp are designed to that would be limited to a small provide adequate and even levels of • Group picnic tables in clusters in such specific user group. Encourage use of light when installed approximately a way as to minimize visual intrusion the park by the broadest public, as it 100 feet apart (Figure 19). The into park vistas. was historically intended. aluminum pole and base are designed Limit specific programmatic changes to resist vandalism. The Department Fencing • to the placement of restroom facilities of Recreation and Parks should work • Utilize historically appropriate near playgrounds, the creation of new with the Department of Public Works fencing, such as iron picket and iron picnic areas, and the installation of a to ensure that compatible light hairpin (modeled after the fencing beach volleyball facility. These standards are used on surrounding added to the Boat Lake in the early changes should be carefully and streets. 1900s) in the Nineteenth Century sensitively designed to reflect the • Mount security lights on each Park. park's period of significance (1827- building, even though the park • Remove existing chain link in the 1925). interior will remain dark under the Recreation Park and replace with • Minimize conflicts between park recommended plan. heavier gauge chain link fencing with users (e.g., basketball and softball/ • Abandon the existing low-level black vinyl coating. soccer or dog walkers and young system once the new system is in park users) through scheduling, Signage place and remove the lights. community education, and • Provide wayfinding and interpretive enforcement. Benches and Trash Receptacles signage to clarify facility use, visitor Enforce leash laws, including those access, and visitor education • Use the "Baltimore Bench" that prohibit off-leash animals and • opportunities. throughout the park (Figure 20). require owners to pick up after their Fabricate and install a backless • Provide signs that are harmonious dogs. • with the historic character of the park version of the "Baltimore Bench" for Encourage organizations using the landscape and compatible with • locations where there are attractive recreation facilities to participate in lighting, benches, and other site views in several directions. volunteer improvement programs. furnishings. • Increase number of benches (Refer to the Park Zones & Precincts significantly. section for details regarding proposed • 29 • A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND PATTERSON 28" PARK ... PAOODA F'IELD HOUSE ~ 14' L PATTERSON PARK VISITORS PLEASE TAKE NOTE 9'-10" NO LITTEAINO 51" No At.coHo"-•c:: BEvE~aEs DOGS ON lEASH VEHICLE ACCESS RESTRICTED PERMIT REOUtREO PARK HOURS l +---~O=AW~NTT~O~O~U~S~K~--~ 8'-3" • • 'TYPICAL SITE FURNISHINGS figure 19 0 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND n12" r-r-r12" 26" f 26"--f -r Accessible Picnic Table r11ficm 8" --~ Elevation 2 x 6 Pressure Treated Woo~ 112" x 4" Steel Plate, Welded to Posts I 34"I rF _, t12"i ~ rsu:?=~J =-r . . ~ Z-.1~~ --t 2'·8" f 4'·6" r·l .... jj 8" < --~- L . . 2" x 4" Square Steel Posts, 32 Gallon Trash Receptacle r .. ~--~ ~_:~3 Paint Black, Typ. Elevation l Section +-l---·- . ·--· 7'-10" ----- Plan -· -- [. . .. ~-- --· . I. i·-! - ~ t==: - 45" r-26" J. - EEI I ! I I I : Modified Baltimore Bench Baltimore Bench Section Section Elevation TYPICAL SITE FURNISHINGS • figure 20 A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND improvements to the park's fields and park's period of significance (1827- Perimeter, the Nineteenth Century Park, and recreation facilities). 1925). the Recreation Park-and the precincts or distinct areas within each zone (Figure 15). • Encourage volunteerism as • Perform preservation, restoration, appropriate to assist with reconstruction and rehabilitation in implementation of Master Plan accordance with the Secretary of the The Park Perimeter recommendations. An example Interior's Standards for the Treatment of The features of the park's perimeter-its grass would be the planting program Historic Properties and Guidelines for slopes and trees; monumental gates and undertaken during the "Hands on the Treatment of Historic lAndscapes. retaining walls; and sidewalks, stairs, and Baltimore" program in Spring 1997. • Incorporate respect for historic paths-are among its most visible assets, and as such, play an important role in shaping Maintenance & Management elements (including views and vistas) in plans for new construction and community perceptions. Perimeter conditions • Encourage regular mowing of lawns. screen non-historic elements (such as strongly influence the way the whole park is perceived; even modest changes for better or • Establish a new position of Park ballfield lighting) in order to restore historic views and vistas. worse have a significant effect on the Superintendent with adequate staff reputation of the park and surrounding dedicated to Patterson Park. • Integrate a program of interpretation community as a safe and inviting place. • Encourage 'controlled volunteerism' with the way finding signage system. The park's oldest entry gates are in relatively for maintenance of specific vegetation • Interpret significant historic elements, good condition, but in most cases, the area such as flower beds. Flower species and label historic trees with small, immediately surrounding them is in poor and bed design should be provided discrete signage. by the park; maintenance practices condition. Site furnishings, stairs, and entry should be overseen by the Park • Place (at a minimum) one sign in each paths-the small-scale physical features that Superintendent or staff on a regular of the park's precincts, describing its require on-going maintenance-have not been basis. history, significant elements, and well taken care of and trees lost to disease or localized special ecology, where damage have not been replaced in sufficient • Establish a public/private appropriate. numbers. Benches have been removed rather partnership to fund a special security • Develop a brochure, including a map than repaired or replaced, several of the cast program in the park and augment in-place concrete stairs have deteriorated, and maintenance and capital funds. of the park and an outline of its history, to educate visitors about the virtually every path paved with asphalt block • Contract with neighborhood residents park's significance. in the western section of the park has become to maintain shrub and perennial beds. partially overgrown. RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PARK ZONES Preservation and Interpretation In addition, past efforts to restrict vehicular AND PRECINCTS access were not designed in a sensitive • Perform preservation treatment of manner. Since the 1940s, when the city various architectural and landscape The previous section delineates recommendations for the whole park. This banned public vehicular access to the park, elements in accordance with the time three of the park's six access drives have been period for each element to reflect the section provides specific recommendations for each of the park's three zones-the Park removed or blocked. In these locations- 30 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK /N BALTIMORE, MARYLAND Eastern Avenue and Patterson Park Avenue, Improvements should include sidewalks and paths to support Patterson Park A venue and Gough Street, and cleaning and repair of stone piers, intermittent vehicle use for Baltimore Street and Linwood Avenue-park gateways, installation of decorative emergencies, service, or by permit entrance drives were removed and replaced lighting and park signage, path and only. with asphalt paths and lawn. Curb cuts were stair repair or replacement, tree • Complete perimeter improvements to also removed at the Eastern A venue and planting, and lawn restoration. Due increase the park's accessibility to the Patterson Park A venue entrance, but in the to the very high cost of replicating physically challenged. The most other locations, the curb cuts remain and iron gateways, the Master Plan does heavily used entries, including those wood or steel pipe bollards have been not recommend re-creating historic at major intersections of Baltimore installed to block traffic. iron gates and fencing except at the Street and Patterson Park A venue, Lombard Street entry. Adequate access for disabled park users is and Eastern Avenue and Patterson also an issue at many of the entrances. Few of • Add a new gate to complete the Park Avenue, and the two on the pedestrian entries have curb cuts, and in enclosure of the Pulaski monument. Linwood Avenue east of the Pool many instances, paving is uneven and many • Replant the slopes along the southern Complex should be improved before In of the entry stairs have deteriorated and do and northern edges of the park with a others. addition, the stairs along not meet current code requirements. Though variety of deciduous trees using the Eastern and Baltimore A venues cars with handicapped tags are permitted palette developed for the oldest should be reconstructed to comply within the park, there are no signs indicating portion of the park. To promote a with current accessibility this policy nor are there signs that direct the sense of safety, eye-level views from requirements for stairways in public places. disabled to accessible entries. the street to the top of slopes and carriageways should remain open. Currently, there is substantially less tree cover The Nineteenth Century Park and fewer street trees exist along the park's • Coordinate with The Department of The Nineteenth Century Park, the oldest and perimeter than existed in previous periods of Recreation and Parks and the western-most portion, reflects the actions of the park's history. As Figures 9 and 10 Department of Public Works to generations of Baltimore's citizens and public indicate, there were at least twice the present develop plans for the installation of officials, as well as the influences of several number of trees on the park's edge 90 years pedestrian lights and street trees important park design movements. From the ago. In addition, the Park Commission along the public sidewalks bordering Revolutionary War onward, the high ground reports indicate that the sidewalks were the park. in the park's western end has been shaped planted with rows of street trees. • Remove entry drives and curb cuts and adapted to serve a range of uses: a from adjacent streets from each of the defensive battery and public promenade Recommendations entrances proposed to be closed to during the early eighteenth century, a hospital vehicle traffic, and replace them with • Undertake preservation and and encampment during the Civil War, a continuous sidewalks. At the Pulaski improvement programs for each of popular Country Park, and a place for Gate and the Gough Street Gates, the park's entries. Existing stone community gatherings and celebrations. piers, walls, curbs, and decorative where service and emergency vehicle access is to be maintained, install The overall plan of the Nineteenth Century features should be preserved. mountable curbs and construct Park is remarkably coherent, especially with 31 A MASlER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND regard to the carriageways and path The Heart of the Park-The Lombard Street repairs. Additional improvements, including alignments. In addition, several features Gate, White House & Pagoda repairs to the roof, windows, and roof drains, introduced between the 1860s and the turn of The Heart of the Park is defined generally as will be required in the next few years. the century remain and provide a sense of the the area surrounding the park's earliest An additional concern relates to the rear park circa 1890. These structures, site structures-the Lombard Street Gate, the garden created during the improvement furnishings and landscape features and their Superintendent's House (White House) and program. Enclosing this area to create a historic associations, in addition to the the Observatory (Pagoda)-and includes the garden, though it was a substantial community's strong attachments to the place, old Kiddie Pool site (i.e., the oval walkway) improvement over previous conditions, provide a rich framework within which to and the landscape west of the Maintenance obscured views to the building's rear facade plan for the park's future. Yard (Figure 21). and limits public access. The creation of this For the purposes of the plan, the Nineteenth Despite its problems, the Heart of the Park enclosed space is inconsistent with the park's Century Park zone is defined generally by the has the potential to provide visitors with an heritage as a place open and accessible to the park's boundaries circa 1873 (i.e., west of authentic experience of the park as it was at community. Luzerne Street) plus the area surrounding the the turn-of-the-century. Though changes A community-based restoration program led eastern-most Storm Shelter and the Virginia have occurred, much of the nineteenth Baker Recreation Center. For several reasons, by the Butcher's Hill Neighborhood century fabric remains intact and in relatively Association has been initiated for the the small area to the east of 1873 boundary is sound condition. Carriageway and path included: Observatory (Pagoda) to protect the structure alignments have changed little and major from further deterioration and ensure its architectural elements from the period remain • Topographically, the land is up slope restoration. In addition to the structure itself, and have undergone only modest alteration. of the Harris Creek alignment and features immediately surrounding the Even the existing land forms-the rolling shares drainage and soils structure are also in disrepair. The concrete terrain with serpentine drives and slightly characteristics with the land to its bases for the cannons are cracked and most of depressed pathways-express the nineteenth west; the plaques are missing. In addition, the Star century designer's pastoral approach to Spangled Banner Memorial sculpture was landscape design. • Historically, the area was improved. placed facing in the wrong direction some prior to the tum of the century-a crty The main architectural features of this years ago and the asphalt block paths are topographic survey indicates that the overgrown and uneven. paths and carriageways were precinct-the Superintendent's House (White House), Observatory (Pagoda), Fountain, and completed by 1896; and The iron picket fence is a contemporary the Lombard Gate-exist in varying states of addition in response to vandalism and should • The Virginia Baker Recreation Center repair. The Superintendent's House (White be removed and replaced with a system of has similar use characteristics and House) has been relatively well-maintained, lighting and security alarms, as well as a 24- vehicular access requirements to the largely due to the efforts of its current tenant, hour security presence in the park. Casino. the Banner Neighborhoods Association. The association completed a $20,000 improvement The Marble Fountain near the Lombard Gate program a few years ago and has assumed entrance, the first feature built specifically for responsibility for minor maintenance and park use, is also in poor condition. The 32 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BALllMORE. MARYLAND L::=-..... -~ ~-- -... -.=J t.= ______:j ~-- Patterson~ Park Ave./ Baltimore St. ~ Gate 1 Patterson Park Ave./ Lombard St. Gate r•~~~~~~~t---Taurus Fountain Sculpture. New Restrooms· & Concessions Former Kiddie Pool Site Observatol)i/ Pagoda Eastern Ave. 1 Patterson;..;;.;;.~-- Park Ave. Gate Thl!: HEART OF THE PARK 0 figure 21 • A MASTER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE. MARYLAND plumbing system is inoper~bl~ b~ca~se of New Use Options is the park's best known feature and its clogged drain lines, the basm hnmg IS . Future uses and related accessibility issues preservation should remain a high priority. cracked, the coping is chipped and stamed, were also evaluated during the planning In addition, first floor access to the disabled and the iron picket fencing is damaged and should also be explored . • process. Because of the number and do~~ rusting. In addition, the Fount~in's . proximity of important features, the precmct, immediate context is compromised by Its use It is unlikely that either structure could house once improved, could attract greater use ~d support facilities, and additi~ns or . . . for parking, the benches surrounding it have become a desirable place to hold community modifications may comprormse theu histone been removed, the drinking fountain is celebrations, wedding receptions, and other integrity, so a new building option was also inoperable, and the shrubs to the east screen events. Certain basic amenities, however, will considered. At the tum of the century, the views to the fountain from the area near the be required to support increased use, and a Little Casino served precisely the sort of role community gardens and the Kiddie Pool site. number of alternatives have been explored. required to provide needed services to users Though the decorative irpn gates are no An evaluation of the Superintendent's House and to sustain increased public use of the longer present, the Renaissance Revi~a~ style (White House) suggests that, because of its precinct and may provide~ model.for future Lombard Gateway is in the best condition of historic importance and small size, alterations action. Built in 1871, the Ltttle Casmo, also any feature in the precinct. The m~rble pillars to accommodate more active uses may not be known as the Ice Cream Saloon, was designed require cleaning but there are no signs of appropriate or cost-effective. If the building to serve the needs of park visitors, including settlement or deterioration. As with the rest were open to large public functions or ice skaters, in the winter. The small Victorian of the precinct, however, paths are in poor renovated to house support facilities like structure, located adjacent to the carriageway condition, few benches remain along the main restrooms or a catering kitchen, architectural across from the Observatory (Pagoda), housed entry paths; and recent improvements, such changes to comply with handicapped a small refreshment stand and restrooms. as the use of concrete unit pavers for a path accessibility and health codes may prove Photographs suggest that the building, with replacement project, are inappropriate to the either prohibitively expensive or inconsistent its open porch and nearby benches, blended precinct's historic fabric. with sound preservation practices. in well to its environment and was a popular Rehabilitation of the building for less intense gathering place. A new building, serv~g . The former Kiddie Pool site, with its oval use (e.g., to host small meetings or exhibitions similar functions, could be located at this Site. lawn, benches, and low stone retaining walls, or to act as a modest headquarters for a park works well as a quiet seating area, but a few related organization or a police substation) Recommendations items require attention. The space itself lacks may be more appropriate. definition. Its central element, the sculpture • Renovate the Superintendent's House (White House) to accommodate park from the Taurus Fountain, has been damaged Potential uses for the Observatory (Pagoda) related uses such as a police by vandals; and the crown of the lawn is were also considered, but because of its small substation; offices for Friends of steeper than necessary, especially if the space footprint and lack of heat or air conditioning, Patterson Park or other community is to be used for informal play. A it cannot function as anything other than an organizations; or a modest exhibition contemporary sculpture in the center of the observatory. Without the means to regulate and meeting space. Improve its site that has been vandalized does not temperature and humidity, its use even as a associated landscape (including complement the quality of the space. As with very small exhibit space is not recommended. • most areas of the park, benches, retaining . removing nearby flower beds), Regardless of these limitations, this structure walls, paths, and stairs are in need of repau. 33 A MASTER PLAN F"OR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND remove the rear garden enclosure, with the equipment required to pavers, and brick) should be and renovate the area for park use. operate a small concession stand. preserved and concrete pavers at the Reconstruction of the Little Casino Lombard Street entry should be Support the community's restoration • should be attempted only if historic replaced with historically appropriate initiative for the Observatory design plans or photographs are material. (Pagoda). Specific ways the available. Department of Recreation and Parks • Preserve the small-scale features of could help support this project • Reinforce the former Kiddie Pool the precinct, the elements that add include improving the condition of site's use as a contemplative space by richness and provide evidence of the paving and landscape features at the repairing the damaged sculpture, park's history. The cannon bases base of the structure (including regrading the lawn, and planting should be rehabilitated and the removing the iron fence and flowering trees. Remove concrete plaques reinstalled, the Star Spangled renovating the plantings) and beneath the lawn to sustain Banner Statue should be cleaned and assisting in on-going fundraising vegetation. The existing lighting, turned so that the children face efforts. particularly the fixture that blocks outward as they did historically, and views to the Taurus Fountain the War of 1812 cannon and plaque Restore the Lombard Gate and • remnant, should be removed, the should be cleaned. Fountain and reconstruct lost paths should be repaired, the existing elements, such as the fountain head, Develop an interpretive program to benches should be repaired, and new • iron gates, and stone bollards. share the history of the park precinct benches installed. Redesign the fountain system to be with visitors. For example, small recirculating and remove existing iron • Install planting beds containing signs or plaques could explain the fencing. As two of the park's oldest flowers and shrubs of the size and history of the Battery and importance and most visible elements, restoration character of those depicted in historic of the view to the harbor and to the of these features would send a strong photographs for the lawn panels at east. message to the community that the the base of the Observatory (Pagoda) park is important and well cared for. and in the small circular bed where The Maintenance Complex and Community A thorough understanding of each paths converge northeast of the Gardens element's history, original condition, Superintendent's House (White The Maintenance Complex and Community and context should guide the House). Establishing flower beds in Gardens precinct is located west of the restoration and reconstruction effort. other locations, however, is Virginia Baker Recreation Center between the inconsistent with historic evidence Construct a small building to house Kiddie Pool site and the northern-most • and is not recommended. Instead, restrooms, a food concession, and a carriageway. The precinct, though located flower beds should be established in catering kitchen on the site of the within the park's boundaries circa 1860, has the Mall area. Little Casino adjacent to the experienced a greater degree of physical Observatory (Pagoda). The structure • Implement a precinct-wide path and change since its initial improvement than any should be secure and vandal-proof site furnishing preservation and area in the Nineteenth Century Park. and contain handicap accessible improvement program. Existing Community gardens have had a long history restrooms and a food service space paving materials (asphalt, asphalt in the Park. In 1904, and again in 1913, the 34 • A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND dedication of land for community-tended new landscaping. An iron picket features. The rehabilitation program garden plots is discussed in Park Commission fence and small formal gate should be includes conserving and resetting reports and a 1935 map depicts a large installed where the garden borders existing asphalt paver blocks; • children's garden. Photographs from the time the Kiddie Pool site and black vinyl installing new asphalt pavers to confirm their existence and area residents chain link fencing should be installed match existing-pavers in deteriorated have suggested that community-tended around the west, north, and east areas; reconstructing the vases and gardens or victory gardens have been in the edges. An access drive for service planting them with floral displays; park since World War II. vehicles should be constructed from installing new "Baltimore Benches" the carriageway to the gardens. and trash receptacles; and planting maple trees along the edges. Careful Recommendations Construct a brick path that follows • attention should be given to the historic alignment of Middle • Perform a major renovation of the preserving existing trees along the Drive. The new path will define the existing Maintenance Complex once Mall. the Patterson Park Division's regional south and east edges of the maintenance functions are relocated community gardens and provide a • Construct a pavilion at the Mall's to new facilities outside of the park. more direct path between the northern terminus similar in form and The Stables should be restored, the Lombard Gate, the gardens, and the scale to the former Taurus Fountain concrete block storage building Virginia Baker Recreation Center. Pavilion. Demolish the existing should be demolished, a small drinking fountain and pad. The Mall maintenance structure should be • Establish flower beds along the east built, the outdoor storage area should This precinct is generally defined as the area side of the Mall and in the circular be consolidated, and new fencing surrounding the Mall and the Storm Shelter lawn panel at the Mall's southern should be installed. Under the and includes the former site of the terminus. recommended design, the Stables will Conservatory (Figures 24,25 a"d 26). become more visible and more • Remove existing play equipment at directly connected to the surrounding The Mall area retains many of the elements the Conservatory site and construct a landscape (Figures 22 a11d 23). An installed in the late nineteenth century, new, expanded, custom-designed iron picket fence will be used to including the walks, carriage drive, trees, and children's playground on the east side enclose the south edge of the yard, the Mall itself. Although the area retains of the Mall. outdoor storage will be screened by a integrity, its defining elements (such as the • Construct a small structure for new shelter attached to the small Conservatory and the vases) have been restrooms on the east side of the Mall storage building, and a small parking removed; and the area is generally in poor on a path connecting the Mall to the area will be provided between the condition. Playground. Stables and the carriageway. Recommendations • Develop a new picnic area on the • Enlarge the Community Gardens and grounds between the Mall and the install new fencing. The gardens • Rehabilitate the Mall with careful carriageway. • should be physically separated from restoration of extant elements and the Maintenance Complex through redevelopment of critical historical 35 1\ MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND Construct new -----JIIIU-:~::.br~..:q..J.J-+..L-..:~-·~ n•. u•·..J~;"t · ~~~..,_..;.-.....;..;...:.;_ __ Expanded gardens maintenance & new fencing building. to complement historic architecture ;,lf~f.~~~~~S*-- Newly Constructed and Adapted Historic Middle Drive THE M~NTENANCE COMPLEX AND COMMUNITY GARD~NS • figure 22 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND • • VIE:W OF REHABILITATION OF STABLES BUILDI,N,O AND TAURUS FOUNTAIN SCULPTURE • FROM THE FORMER KIDDIE POOL figure 23 A MASlER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE. MARYLAND ~--~~~~~---New Pavilion at Historic Taurus Fountain Site Gough St./ Patterson Park Ave. Gate ThE MALL AND CONSERVATORY SITE e figure 24 A MASlER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND 8' 37' 8' Mall Restroom Structure Play Structure SECTION lHAOUCH RESTORED MALL, LOOKINC NORTH figure 25 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATr~RSON. PARK IN ·BALllMORE, MARYLAND Varies: 10' 9' ·14' 10' Path Path Perennial Beds Gough Street Gate S~CTION THROUGH GOUGH STREET GATE, LOOKING EAST figure 26 • A MASlER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE. MARYLAND • Rehabilitate the paths in the vicinity Park Commission reports noted that by 1897 the bottom. The cattails have limited food of the Mall utilizing historic marine grass was removed twice annually. value for waterfowl, however redwing black alignments and asphalt paving. During this period, the growth of vegetation birds breed in the cattails to the delight of was sufficient to preclude boating. Available local bird watching enthusiasts. The Lake • Preserve the storm shelter and records do not indicate how the growth of produces a prolific annual crop of algae, establish tree plantings in its vicinity vegetation problem was solved, other than which causes noxious odors later in the in accordance with tree density through periodic harvesting, nor do they season as the algae decays. Fish kills also desired for the park. indicate what actions may have been taken occur due to poor water quality. during the period from the tum of the century The Boat Lake to 1984. Recommendations Background In 1984, the Departments of Public Works and The design objectives for the lake are to The Patterson Park Boat Lake (Figures 27, 28 Recreation and Parks drained the Lake and (Figures 30, 31 and 32): and 29) was created during grading removed between six inches and one foot of operations in 1864 when extensive sediment that overlaid a clay bottom. At that • Establish and maintain a combination earthmoving work was performed to remove time, it was recommended that the Lake be of open water and emergent wetland military emplacements and to fill ravines. deepened and that the ground be treated with habitat. herbicides. The Lake has a winter surface of When Baltimoreans began spontaneously to approximately 2.62 acres (114,250 square feet) • Maintain water quality to support fish use the Lake as a skating pond in 1865, the and is fed by a drainage area of 34.65 acres. and an aesthetic environment, free Board of the Public Park Commission Field observation shows all 11 pipes from odors. acknowledged the worthiness of expanding discharging into the Lake area actively Provide safe access to the water's the Lake to accommodate skating as well as draining, although available test pit data • edge for fishing and other boating. This work, completed in 1875, suggest that feed pipes may in fact be clogged recreational purposes. enlarged the Lake to its present size, reduced and not fully functional. The brick wall along the depth to approximately three feet, and the Lake's perimeter still remains and is Provide amenities, which bring back included a brick retaining wall around the presently covered with concrete and in . • Lake edge, an island, and plantings of trees the aesthetic character of the late 19'h considerable disrepair in numerous locations. century. and shrubs. The island, surrounded by a wall as well, also remains. A system of trench drains, using oyster shells Several strategies will fulfill these objectives: as the porous materials and earthen pipes to During the master plan, citizens expressed a convey the water, was constructed to desire to manage the pond to retain a • Perform a feasibility study to assess eliminate wet areas. Waste water from the combination of open water and wetland marble fountain at the Lombard Street park the environmental quality of the pond habitat for fish, waterfowl, and songbirds. and make design and management entrance and numerous springs and seeps The current conditions do not support these were also piped to the Lake. By 1884, a boat recommendations for the long-term objectives. The Lake is shallow and ~attails landing shelter was added. maintenance of the pond to meet and water lilies are rapidly encroachmg on design objectives . • the Lake as sediments continue to collect on 36 A MAS'TER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND 1896 CITY OF BALTIMORE TOPOGRAPHIC SURVEY figure 27. • A MASlER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND • UI.I figure • 28 A MASTER PLAN FOR PA1TERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND EARI..Y VIEWS OF PATTERSON PARK LAKE figure 29 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE. MARYLAND ~!le~~tr-=+-~""""""l'l~++--- Forebay Native shrub ---r!l~ff-~~~-""..r,-~~S<"~~~.. planting Aerator I Spray Jet Berm • • THE BOAT LAKE • figure 30 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE. MARYLAND 20' Varies: 20' minimum Varies: 10' ·18' Carriageway Native Shrub Zona Forebay Vegetated Aerator Jet &"Benches Barm@12" Water Depth SECTION "THROUGH NORTH END C I . RESTORED BOAT LAKE, LOOKING EAST figure 31 • A MASTER PLA.N FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND - ·· -- - ....: : /~:.._ • Vlf!N'/ Of' RESTORED BOAT LAKE A~ 0 PAVILION, LOOKING SOUTHWEST figure 32 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATfERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE. MARYLAND • Establish a diverse and easily location and the configuration of the The Casino and Virginia Baker Recreation managed plant community of existing drainage valve Center emergent wetland vegetation on part • Inspect, clean, repair, and/ or replace The Casino (Figures 33 and 34) has seen of the fringes. (as necessary) existing inlets, various uses, from a refreshment stand to manholes, and drains within the Park Commission offices. The building is Incorporate methods to intercept • Lake's draining areas. currently leased to the Commission on Aging, and/ or reduce sediment and nutrient which houses an adult day care program contributions to the Lake from the • Add plantings of trees along the east there and is scheduled to expand the watershed. edge of the Lake to screen ballfields program. Presently, parking at the front of and lightpoles from eastward vistas the building intrudes on the park and is Deepen the pond if the feasibility • from the storm shelter and Mall area degrading the paving and landscape. study demonstrates this will of the park. significantly improve water quality The Virginia Baker Recreation Center was and management considerations. Develop a routine maintenance program since the Lake acts as a "best management practice" constructed in 1974 in the north central section of the park on the site of the former Incorporate methods to reduce wet pond. The maintenance program should • Music Pavilion. Although this building lacks maintenance requirements. be as follows: the architectural significance of many of the • Provide a safety bench below water • Minimize erosion throughout the buildings in the park, the facility is an level around the portion of the Lake drainage area through spot regrading important magnet for active recreation and where there is direct access. The Lake and seeding or sodding eroding areas. community events. The landscape bottom in the area of the bench and Clean and repair broken inlets. When surrounding these structures retains the along the slope should be covered repaired to proper functioning, original alignment of paths, steps, retaining with a grouted stone lining to prevent existing inlets will reduce surface run walls, and a dense canopy of shade trees. growth of emergent vegetation. off that creates erosion. Once the Add spray aerator to restore the drainage system is restored to Recommendations • operable condition, the system must water jet that appears in historic • Collaborate with the Commission on be inspected annually and images of the park. This feature Aging during the renovation and maintenance performed as required. would also increase the dissolved restoration of the Casino building. oxygen content of the Lake. • Remove debris, litter and floating • Modify existing circulation in the material from the water surface on a Rehabilitate the brick wall, parged vicinity of the Casino to eliminate • monthly basis. with portland cement concrete. vehicular use of the diagonal mall Consider revising portions of the lake • Clean sediments from the lake extension and move employee edge treatment to facilitate access for approximately every ten years. parking to the rear of the building. A maintenance dredging. new vehicular access road would • Consider constructing a new low- begin at the existing carriageway level drain, depending upon the northeast of the building. Pedestrian access should be up-graded to 37 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE. MARYLAND _) l __ Baltimore St. I Linwood Ave. Gate VIrginia Baker Recreation Center tffirrnf:t'.7~-;---:-.~~~r-/:,;~~:i Bus & Truck--....t.~~~~~~[i, Access & Employee Parking Casino -----t:~,.fi/1-~ • 'i :il!l~~~j,Smf • 1\ie: CASINO AND VIROINIA BAKEA HECREATION CENTER e figure 33 A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND 40' Casino Drive Casino Drivel Stairs lJ Parking SECTION THROUGH RENOVATED CASINO SITE, LOOKING NORTH figure 34 A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE. MARYLAND provide an accessible path to the recreation complexes in public parks building. The landscape on the north side of Casino and a more direct path throughout the United States. the ice rink is one of the most unattractive between the Nineteenth Century Park areas in the park. to the west and the Recreation Park to Portions of the Olmsted plan for the western the east. Both the vehicular and portion of the zone remain intact, but major Recommendations pedestrian improvement will resolve changes over time have compromised its the casual parking and ill-defined integrity. The Field House; the Linden tree • Stabilize the Field House from further paths on the east side of the building. planting along the promenade/mall; the deterioration and rehabilitate the children's play area; the location of open play building for future recreation or • Upgrade parking and pedestrian fields along Linwood A venue; and the general community use. Rehabilitate the east access at the Virginia Baker organization of structures along a north-south west oriented Mall, including paving, Recreation Center. Expand the axis provide the framework within which site furnishings, and lighting. existing parking area south of the change may occur while keeping the core Possible uses of this facility include a building and create a small parking design elements intact. The eastern portion health club; art center; youth center; area on the carriageway west of the was constructed as designed by the Olmsted or a day care center. building. Install a new path that Brothers and, despite the loss of trees, exhibits • Demolish the existing bath house and meets accessibility guidelines from a high degree of integrity. the parking area to the main entrance create a new bath house south of and on axis with the Field House. to the building. Rehabilitate the path An improvement strategy that respects the leading from the carriageway to the Olmsted plan and reestablishes the Field • Redevelop the existing swimming main entrance of the building and House (Figure 35) as the central focus of pool and develop a new, separate, install shade trees and benches along activity is recommended. Of the entire park, small pool for young children. When the path. Install new shade trees in the western portion of this zone is the most this area is redeveloped, the grade on location similar to early twentieth amenable to change; new development and the south side of the Field House century planting plans. redevelopment, as appropriate, can be should be raised from the basement accommodated within the existing level to the elevation of the first floor. The Recreation Park development area. The balance of the zone, • Replace the bubble cover over the ice including the perimeter, the play fields, the The Recreation Park is the third zone of rink in the long term with a year Pulaski Monument, and the Olmsted Patterson Park. This zone includes the round facility sympathetic in design Extension east of Linwood Avenue should be portions of the park west of Linwood Avenue with the context of the area. Realign preserved or restored as appropriate. devoted to active recreation and the Park east fencing in the vicinity of the ice rink of Linwood with play fields. Though the to provide greater access to the park western portion of this zone became part of Today, although numerous fields and facilities are dilapidated, much of the landscape while removing the park in 1883, its improvement as a unnecessary fencing. recreation landscape was not completed until Recreation Park retains the spirit and circa 1912 under the direction of the Olmsted character that dominated the park in the early • Create a new sand volleyball court Brothers. Its early use for active recreation twentieth century. The facilities requiring the adjacent to the existing courts west of and the initial high quality of improvements greatest need for repair include the Field the Field House. served as a model for the development of House, pool, and courts surrounding the 38 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND --;1~---Refurbish Tennis Courts ~~~~riit"~=:t-:~~~~t---New Swimming Pool Complex ---Linwood Ave. Gate ( I :· ThE f'IELO HOUSE AND POOL COMPLEX e figure 35 A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND • Upgrade the existing tennis courts, discourage dogs from entering the including paving, lighting, and chain area. Preserve the Olmsted link fencing. Extension east of Linwood A venue. Utilize the promenade planting • Upgrade the basketball courts and design attributed to the Olmsted reconfigure, where space is available, Brothers as a basis for upgrading the to regulation size. planting along the crescent-shaped • Repair Utz Twardowicz scoreboard walk. On the slope, add masses of and PA system. trees to hide the ungainly topography and provide shade as suggested by • Provide hoods on back-stop. Olmsted Brothers. Remove the • Renovate ball fields. concrete gutter that is in poor condition and replace with a • Redevelop the existing children's playground east of the swimming supported grass swale. Upgrade the lighting and install new "Baltimore pool. Benches." • Upgrade the pedestrian path system in the vicinity of the Field House. Establish new paths east and west of the swimming pool. Upgrade the paths south of the proposed bath house and create a small mall that will provide direct access from Linwood Avenue to the tennis courts, the carriageway, the ice rink, the bath house, and the Quoit House. Refine the alignment of the paths north of the Quoit House. Preserve the carriageway and rehabilitate the asphalt paths throughout the zone. • Protect the existing healthy trees in the zone. Develop a new planting program adapted from the early twentieth century Olmsted Brothers planting plan utilizing the location and species of that plan. • Install a gate to complete the enclosure of the Pulaski Monument to 39 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK /N BALTIMORE, MARYLAND Chapter 5: Implementation A brief overview of priority implementation projects enforcing leash laws; providing more along with public funds are viewed as an BACKGROUND police or ranger protection; improving appropriate way to enhance these facilities. Following an identification of priority circulation and access to the Virginia Baker Upgrading the park's infrastructure is not projects at the final Public Hearing, Recreation Center and Casino; and a popular project, but is recognized as an members of the Advisory Committee improving the playgrounds. inevitable need. Many considered that identified ten priority projects to be drainage improvements should happen implemented as part of the Patterson Park simultaneously with Boat Lake RECOMMENDATIONS Master Plan. These ten projects cost more improvements. than the funds immediately available from The consensus from the Advisory the $1,000,000 bond bill. Committee is that improvements to the Restoration of the Lombard Street gate is perimeter of the park are the highest viewed as a low priority, and appropriate A ballot was circulated, asking Advisory priority for the community. These when the whole park or the northwest Committee members to consult their improvements not only upgrade the park section of the park is completely renovated. constituents and rank the ten projects, but will enhance the neighborhoods specify public or private funding, and surrounding the park. The Boat Lake is The following projects fell within the mid provide comments. Sixteen of twenty also a high priority; however, the range of priorities, and were similar in seven members of the Advisory Committee community would prefer to find additional importance to committee members: returned their ballots. The results of each funds to complete this project. Installing installing benches; improving perimeter ballot were analyzed, weighting each vote trash cans and repairing pathways and lighting; renovating athletic fields; a value of 1-10, with the first priority stairs are secondary priorities. While repairing drainage infrastructure; and project given a value of 10 and the last a benches ranked only fifth on the list, repairing tennis courts. value of 1. The weighted values from each comments suggested that benches may also ballot were added together for each project be a secondary priority. New seating Finally, the community recognizes and to determine the cumulative ranking. The should be emphasized at the perimeter, supports the need to examine private relative ranking is listed in Table F. tennis courts, and Boat Lake. sources of funding for sustaining Patterson Park now and in the future. In addition to the ten projects discussed Athletic facilities are recognized as a great above, other projects and policies were asset to the park and community; however, suggested by the public, including user funds and corporate contributions 40 • A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE. MARYLAND Table F: Ten Priority Projects as Determined by Advisory Committee Rank & Project Weighted Score Percent of Possible Wolghtod Score 1.1mprove perbneter 132 81% 2. Install stationary trash cans 101 63% 3. Repair pathways & stairs 100 62% 4. Renovate Boat Lake 98 61% 5.1nstall Benches 90 56% 6.1mprove perimeter lighting 89 56% 7. Renovate ball fields 86 54% 8. Repair drainage 82 51% lnfrasructure 9. Repair tennis couns 70 44% 1O.Restore Lombard Street 42 26% gate • A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK /N BALTIMORE. MARYLAND Chapter 6: Cost Estimate Detailed cost estimate of improvements for the park BACKGROUND Following approval of the draft Master Plan, the planning team prepared a detailed cost estimate of improvements for Patterson Park. The cost estimate was reviewed at the final public meeting and Advisory Committee meeting. These cost estimates enabled the Advisory Committee members to better establish priority projects. Based upon comments from the public, Advisory Committee members and Department of Recreation and Park reviews, the final Master Plan cost estimate is as follows. THE WHOLE PARK Circulation and Infrastructure (exclusive of precincts) Pedestrian circulation $215,000 Utility and infrastructure studies (park-wide) $130,000 Utility reconstruction (to be detennined based on future study) $0 Total $345,000 Site Furnishings (exclusive of precincts) Benches and trash receptacles $127,000 Lighting $377,000 Total $504,000 Landscape Improvement and Restoration (exclusive of precincts) Lawn and trees $150,000 Annual and perennial bed preparation $5,000 Total SlSS,OOO 41 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND Interpretation Interpretive program design $10,000 Interpretive signs $12,000 Brochure/map $5,000 Total $27,000 Total: The Whole Park Subtotal $1,031,000 plus 15% contingency $155,000 TOTAL: THE WHOLE PARK $1,186,000 THE PARK PERIMETER Gateways Entrance 1 Baltimore and Patterson Park Avenue Gate $29,000 Entrance 2 Luzerne Avenue Gate $2,500 Entrance 3 Lakewood Avenue Gate $49,000 Entrance 4 Kenwood Avenue Gate $4,000 Entrance 5 Baltimore Street and Linwood Avenue Gate $14,000 Entrance 6 Pulaski Monument Gate $47,000 Entrance 7 Eastern Avenue Entrance $27,000 Entrance 8 Gough Street Gate $35,000 Entrance 9 Pratt Street Gate $4,500 Entrance 10 Eastern Avenue and Ellwood Avenue Gate $13,000 Total $225,000 Miscellaneous Elements Demolish and reconstruct stairs (5) and repair stairs (2) $250,000 Clean stone foundation wall and reset as required $10,000 Total $260,000 • 42 A MASlER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK /N BALllMORE, MARYLAND Total: The Park Perimeter Subtotal $485,000 plus 15% contingency $72,750 TOTAL: THEPARKPERIMETER $557,750 THE NINETEENTH CENTURY PARK The Heart of the Park-The Lombard Gate/White House/Pagoda Precinct-wide $201,000 White House and Fountain $242,000 Pagoda (Observatory) $387,000 Music Pavilion Site $46,000 Total $876,000 The Maintenance Complex and Garden Precinct-wide $77,000 Maintenance complex $180,000 Community garden $54,000 Total $311,000 The Mall and Conservatory Site Precinct-wide $98,000 Mall restoration/rehabilitation $251,000 Conservatory site and picnic area $242,000 Total $591,000 The Boat Lake Boat Lake reconstruction $755,000 Lake perimeter $258,000 Total $1,013,000 43 A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSQN PARK IN BALTlMORE. MARYLAND The Casino and the VIrginia Baker Recreation Center Precinct-wide $215,000 Casino $171,000 Virginia Baker Recreation Center $63,000 Total $449,000 Total: The Nineteenth Century Park Subtotal $3,240,000 plus 15% contingency $486,000 TOTAL: THE NINETEENTH CENTURY PARK $3,726,000 THE RECREATION PARK The Field House and Pool Complex Precinct-wide $302,000 Field House and Pool Complex $3,069,000 Total $3,371,000 Recreation and Play Equipment Play equipment and courts $223,000 Fields Renovation $37,000 Total $260,000 Total: The Recreation Park Subtotal $3,631,000 plus 15% contingency $545,000 TOTAL: THE RECREATION PARK $4,176,000 • PARK RESTORATION TOTAL $9,645,750 (excluding Drainage Infrastructure) 44 A MASlER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND Patterson Park Bibliography List of sources Bergland, Mark, et at., "Patterson Park: Delon Hampton & Associates, Chartered, Strocko, Ed, ed., Patterson Park Chronologtj, Putting the Pieces Together," University Patterson Park Boat Lake Master Plan Study, City of Baltimore Department of of Maryland Urban Studies Program, Rockville, Maryland, December 1996. Recreation and Parks, June 1995. 1994. Faul, Augustus, Map of Patterson Park, 1891. Unknown, "Land Acquisitions/ Grading/ Beveridge, Charles E., "Documentary Drainage: Years of Addition to Park Kessler, Barry and David Zang, The Play Life Materials from the Records of the of a City: Baltimore's Recreation and Parks, Ground are Underlined." Olmsted Firm," including 17 document 1900-1955, Baltimore City Life Museums Walker, Charles, A Historical Perspective: 155 slides and 9 plan copies, 1996. and Baltimore City Department of Acres-155 Years: Patterson Park's Rich Past, _"Precis of Correspondence" in B file Recreation and Parks. date unknown. number 2414, Olmsted Associates Lampl Associates, US Department of the Records, Manuscript Division, United Interior, National Park Service, National States Library of Congress, 1996. Register of Historic Places, Patterson Park, _"Comments on the Condition and Baltimore, ManJland, Draft Report, Desirable Treatment of Patterson Park," September 1996. June 1996. Latrobe, CH, Map of Patterson Park, 1899. City of Baltimore Department of Recreation Park Commission of Baltimore City, Annual and Parks, Patterson Park IuventonJ Maps, Reports, 1861-1914, Baltimore City 1996. Archives. City of Baltimore Department of Recreation Photogrammetic Data Service, Inc., and Parks, "Patterson Park Before the Topographical Base Data, Sterling, Virginia, Dawn of the Recreation Era," notes to March 14, 1996, scale: 1"=40', 5 sheets. accompany analysis of 1899 map, March 1996. Simon, Michael, History of Patterson Park, October 1994. City of Baltimore, HT Douglas, Chief Engineer, City of Baltimore Topographical SurveJj, 1895, scale: 1"=200'. A MASTER PLAN FOR PATfERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND Appendices • • A MASlER PlAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALTIMORE. MARYLAND 1. Patterson Park Master Plan Phase 1: Inventory and Analysis Committee Members Physical Features Natural Resources Recreation and Users Promotion and Marketing Sidney Brower Marion Brenna Phyllis Brulik Mark Adams Jim Creiman Ren Brenna Nelson Cammack Chris Belanger Rob Foster Toni Francfort Dorney Chesto AmyBonitz John Huppert Charles Glass Michael Griffin Don Carver Florence Kulbicki Paul Janigue Carol Hartke Jackie Carrera Dan Lipstein Lisa Land George Holland Ellen Casale Clint Roby David Locke Cheryl Jordon Hubert de Montagen MaryRoby John Moulis Mary Jordan Helle DeSimone Kitty Thompson Lori Nicolle Frank LePage Dorothy Dobbyn Veronica Piskor Tony Loeffler John Johnson Sandra Sales Jennifer Morgan Tracey LeBonte Claudia Saniszewski Lisa Shipley Sally Loomis Dan Tracy Virginia Fowble Sandy McCollum Susan Murray MaryRoby A MASlER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND 2. Patterson Park Chronology * Chronology of major events in the park's history 1792 William Patterson invested profits 1864 Walks constructed, lake excavated, 1875 Flower beds established in park; Boat from his shipping business in a large and approx. 2,000 trees planted; Boat Lake expanded to present tract of land in east Baltimore. Lake completed (one-half the size of configuration. the present lake). 1814 Rodgers' Bastion established as a 1876 Wood frame Conservatory battery of cannon in preparation for 1865 Drainage pipes and fire plugs constructed. attack by the British Army during the installed; marble fountain 1881 Maintenance building rebuilt after War of 1812. constructed; Boat Lake depth fire damage. reduced to 3' for skating pond use; 1827 William Patterson's Public Walk, a fountain added. c. 1881 War of 1812 cannons (not original 5.96 acre site, is dedicated for public cannons on site) and Star Spangled use. 1866 Superintendent's House/ Banner statue added. Gatekeeper's House (White House) 1860 Expansion of Public Walk with constructed. 1882- Boundary expanded; "Extension"- 57 capital improvements to 31 acres. 1883 acres; Baltimore A venue/North 1867- Lombard Gate completed; music 1861 Grading and fencing installed. Kenwood Street Gate is constructed. 1870 stand and the "little Casino" built; 1862 George Aloysius Frederick appointed shade trees and evergreens planted; 1887 New boathouse completed. Park Architect by the Park iron fencing and settees (benches) 1890 Two storm shelters constructed. Commission. installed; stables constructed. 1891 Observatory (Pagoda) completed; 1863 Construction of the serpentine 1869 Skater's structure constructed. Mall paved with asphalt block. carriageway begins, grading 1873 Boundary expanded; "Southern operations continued, ravines filled, 1892 Urns installed on Mall, placed from Edition of Park" addition-19.2 acres; and restoration/renovation plans Druid Hill Park; Patterson Park beginning of Mall construction. made, including southeast comer of Avenue & Eastern Avenue Gates the park "contemplated for use as a 1874 Mall installed as a gravel path; constructed. small lake." planted with maples. 'Adapted from Strocks, 1995. A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND 1893 Mansion House (Casino) constructed; from Taurus Fountain constructed at Gough Street Gate constructed. Music Pavilion site. 1895 Baltimore Avenue/North Lakewood 1944 Conservatory removed. Street Gate constructed; end of 1948 Playground near shelter Frederick's tenure as Park Architect. reintroduced. 1896 Wharf built and boathouse repaired. 1951 Pulaski Monument installed. 1897 First children's playground (first 1952 Board of Education built athletic active recreation use in park) located fields at present site of Utz near storm shelter; marine grass Twardowicz Field; outdoor skating removed twice annually from Boat center and changing house installed. Lake. 1953 Swimming pools added; lake filled. 1904 Land dedicated for community garden plots near service yard; iron 1968 Skating rink changing house and glass Conservatory constructed; expanded. outdoor gymnasium constructed in 1970 Utz Twardowicz Field and viewing the 1882-1883 extension; Olmsted stand installed; Bath House installed. Brothers landscape architects hired to prepare a plan for the 1882-1883 1970s Vietnam Memorial and two extension. maintenance structures installed. 1905 Field House constructed. 1974 Virginia Baker Recreation Center constructed. 1908 Mall repaved (material unknown, probably asphalt block); boundary 1986 Mimi DiPietro Skating Rink enclosed expanded, "Patterson Park with tension structure and Extension," 22.5 acres acquired. changing/warming house expanded. 1915 Olmsted Brothers Plan implemented and fields ready for use by public. 1916- Baltimore/Patterson Park Avenue 1921 Gates Constructed. 1923 Gold Star Mothers Memorial Flagstaff installed. 1925 Quoit House constructed, kiddie pool/roller skating rink constructed; stone retaining wall with Bull's Head 2 • A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND • • 3. Patterson Park Bird Species Bird Species Observed in Patterson Park, Their Relative City-Wide Abundance, and Breeding Status (If Available) Breeding Abundant' Common Uncommon Somewhat Rare Rare American Robin American Crow "' ./"' Blue Jay "' ./ Chimney Swift "' ./ Common Grackle "' European Starling "' "' • House Sparrow "' Mourning Dove "' "' Northern Cardinal "' "' Northern Mockingbird "' "' Rock Dove "' Bam Swallow "' Dark-eyed Junco "' Downy Woodpecker "' House Wren "' Northern Flicker "' "' Red-winged Blackbird "' "' Mallard "' "' Eastern Kingbird "' American Goldftnch "' Kildeer "' Wood Thrush "' Chipping Sparrow "' Black-Crowned Night Heron "' "' Black Duck "' Canvasback Duck "' • A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND Breeding Abundant Common Uncommon Somewhat Rare Rare Laughing Gull ~ Marsh Wren ~ ~ Purple Finch ~ Ring-billed Gull ~ Peregrine Falcon ~ Ruddy Duck ~ Wood Duck ~ ~ American Bittern ~ American Coot ~ Brown Creeper ~ Canada Goose ~ Swamp Sparrow ~ ~ Chipping Sparrow ~ Great Egret ~ Marsh Hawk ~ Great Blue Heron ~ Green Backed Heron ~ LltUe Blue Heron ~ Ring-necked Duck ~ Marsh Hen ~ Pied-billed Grebe ~ "For the purposes of this study, "Abundanr· Is defined as occurring In greater than 85% of the city; "Common"ls defined as occurlng In 60-85% of the city; "Uncommon"ls defined as occurring In 33--60% of the city; "Somewhat Rare" is defined as occurlng In 10-33% of the city; and "Rare" is defined as occurring In less than 10% of the city. Source: Bird Slghtlngs by Charles C. Glass and Michael Hendrick, community residents; Breeding status by M. Hendrick; Analysis for relative abundance city-wide by Department of Recreation and Parks, adapted from Baltimore City Habitat Assessment Plan, Baltimore Department of Plamlng. 2 • • A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND • 4. Results of 1996 Water Sampling in Patterson Park Lake Analyte May Water Sample (mg/1) August Water Sample (mg/1) Soil Sample (mg/kg) Desired Water Quality Acceptable Range Dissolved Oxygen 6.540 7.800 - >5.00 Chlorophyll 3.140 mg/m 3 0.003 mg/m3 - - Total Phosphorous 0.070 0.100 2.560 0.01-0.06 Nitrate/Nitrate as Nitrogen 21.000 0.080 0.240 0.10-0.40 Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen 0.217 0.240 6.450 0.20-0.60 Ammonia 0.070 0.050 ND 0.10-0.30 Ortho-phosphate ND ND - 0.00025-0.001 Fecal Strep ND 4/100 ml - - Fecal Coliform ND Present - <200 mpn/ml Total Coliform ND Present - - Percent Moisture - - 57% N/A Source: Delon Hampton & Associates, Maryland . • • • A MASTER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE, MARYLAND 5. Recommended Trees Adapted from·Historical Lists HEART OF THE PARK Key: Sources: 1 Present in 1887 City of Baltimore Department of Parks & Recreation, 2 Present in 1915 "Patterson Park Tree Inventory." 3 Present in Olmsted Bros. Plan Olmsted Brothers, Plant List, dated to 20 March 1916, 4 Present Today applicable to Planting Plan 2414-13, dated Evergreen 13 March 1916. •• Maple Species in 1915 survey not specified A MASlER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND MALL AREA • POND AND SPRINGS AREA Key: Sources: 1 Present in 1887 City of Baltimore Department of Parks & Recreation, 2 Present in 1915 "Patterson Park Tree Inventory." 3 Present in Olmsted Bros. Plan Olmsted Brothers, Plant List, dated to 20 March 1916, 4 Present Today applicable to Planting Plan 2414-13, dated Evergreen 13 March 1916. Maple Species in 1915 survey not specified 2 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND RECREATION FIELDS Key: Sources: 1 Present In 1887 City of Baltimore Department of Parks & Recreation, 2 Present in 1915 "Patterson Park Tree Inventory." 3 Present In Olmsted Bros. Plan Olmsted Brothers, Plant List, dated to 20 March 1916, 4 Present Today applicable to Planting Plan 2414-13, dated Evergreen 13 March 1916. 3 A MASTER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND • • 6. Ranking of Tree Species by Numbers Present ' Numbers of Trees and Species West of Linwood A venue only 1887 • • • • • A MASTER PLAN FOR PATIERSON PARK IN BAL11MORE. MARYLAND Sweet Gum 11 1% Balsam Poplar 11 1% Sycamore 10 <.5% English Oak 10 <.5% Paper Mulberry (Morus Sp.) 9 <.5% Kentucky Coffee Tree 9 <.5% Common Scrub Oak (Q. llicifolia) 9 <.5% WhiteOak 8 <.5% European Hornbean 7 <.5% Japan Tree (Paulownia lmperialiis) 6 <.5% Wild American Cherry (Cerasus serotina) 4 <.5% Weeping Willow 3 <.5% Purple-leaved Beech 3 <.5% Red Oak 3 <.5% European Larch 2 <.5% American Bird Cherry (Cerasus padus) 2 <.5% Sensitive Tree (Mimosa prostrata) 1 <.5% American Holly 1 <.5% Sassafras 1 <.5% Total Trees 1714 100% Total Number of Species 45 1915 2 • A MASTI:R PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND Pine 9 1% Red Oak 9 1% Bur Oak 7 1% • Birch 5 <.5% Gum 4 <.5% Ash 2 <.5% Oak 2 <.5% Mulberry 2 <.5% Total Trees 1041 100% Total Number of Species 22 1995 Species . Number Percent Total Linden 270 29% Red Oak 94 10% Red Maple 55 6% White Ash 47 5% White Pine 26 3% • Mulberry 22 2% Hawthorn 22 2% Norway Maple 21 2% American Elm 21 2% Sycamore 19 2% Unknown 19 2% Cherry 18 2% Sweet Gum 17 2% Scholar Tree 16 2% Honey Locust 16 2% Hackberry 15 2% Horse Chestnut 15 2% English Oak 14 2% Willow Oak 12 1% Tulip Poplar 11 1% • Ginkgo 10 1% Sugar Maple 9 1% Silver Maple 9 1% • Enolish Elm 9 1% • Bur Oak 8 1% 3 A MASlER PLAN FOR PATTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND Black Locust 7 1% Pear 7 1% Green Ash 7 1% Sycamore Leaf Maple 6 1% Saucer Magnolia 6 1% Bald Cypress 6 1% WhiteOak 5 1% Southern Magnolia 5 1% Holly 5 1% Crabapple 5 1% Golden Rain 5 1% Amur Cork 4 <.5% Basswood 4 <.5% Yellow Wood 4 <.5% Beech 4 <.5% Weeping Willow 3 <.5% Shingle Oak 3 <.5% Eastern Cottonwood 3 <.5% Calespur Thorn 3 <.5% Osage Orange 3 <.5% Cottonwood 2 <.5% Zelkova 2 <.5% Kentucky Coffee 2 <.5% White Fir 2 <.5% Weeping Cherry 1 <.5% White Wingnut 1 <.5% Locust 1 <.5% Hop Hornbeam 1 <.5% Chestnut Oak 1 <.5% Weeping Mulberry 1 <.5% Juniper 1 <.5% Amur Maple 1 <.5% Poplar Hybrid 1 <.5% Oak 1 <.5% Total Trees 920 100% Total Number of Species 59 Total Trees West of Linwood Avenue 808 =77% of 1915 47%of 1887 4 A MASlER PLAN FOR PAlTERSON PARK IN BALllMORE, MARYLAND 7. Historical Trend of Trees in Patterson Park Numbers of Trees and Species West of Linwood Avenue Trees/Acre 33 12 7 6 No. Species ? 45 21 59 • • • • • • 0• 0 0 • • • • • •0 • • •