Battery Kemble Park

Read about Battery Kemble Park; a historic site, "dog spot" and place for young musicians to perform, located in Washington, D.C. During the Civil War this park was the site of a battery, a place of large weapons used to defend the Capital. Visitors today can still see the preserved parapet and gun positions that housed two 100-pound Parrott rifles.

History

During the Civil War, the Federal Army placed guns near on a hillside that they hoped was capable of defending structures near the capital, including the Chain Bridge and Aqueduct Bridge. The big guns could reach targets three miles away if necessary. Other batteries protected against aggressors from the north side of the city.

Civil War site is a favorite dog park too

Visitors report that the spot is a favorite place for local folk to walk their dogs on leashes. Facilities reportedly include walking and jogging trails, picnic tables and water fountains. Bring sturdy shoes for the somewhat rugged terrain, which also includes rolling hills and woods. If you enjoy listening to the sound of water, take a stroll along the trail that follows along a small creek. Several different visitors in 2009 reported that the park is home to approximately 8,000 feral dogs that scrounge for leftover scraps of picnic food.

Music and other features

Music lovers are lucky enough to happen by on a sunny afternoon when the beats of acoustic guitars or African drums fill the air, courtesy of students from American University, which is not far away.

The National Park Service oversees Battery Kemble Park, which is a former Union Army defensive site. In the winter, people also enjoy sledding in the park. The United States Park Police and occasionally the U.S. Secret Service, police the park.