History of Patterson Pak

Patterson Park is one of the oldest parks in Baltimore. Many generations have played and worked in the park, every stage of American history has left its indelible mark.

The first to live on what is now Patterson Park was Quinton Parker in 1669. Then it was possible to navigate a small boat up Harris Creek from the Patapsco River right into Patterson Park. In 1708 the land was conveyed to Nicholas Rogers. In 1792 William Patterson purchased at auction, for $8,500, the 200 acre Harris Creek Rogers estate that sat on the edge of what was called Baltimore Town.

On Hampstead Hill, the ridge where the Pagoda now stands, Baltimoreans rallied on September 12, 1814 to protect the city from the threat of a British invasion. Urban myth suggests that from this vantage point the glow from the fire at the Capitol and the White House could be seen as the opposition marched through the nation’s capital. By water the British entered the Patapsco River and bombarded Fort McHenry. By land they amassed forces at North Point. As they marched on to Baltimore they were able to look up to Hampstead Hill and see Rodger’s Bastion - 100 cannons and 20,000 troops. The British returned to their ships and sailed away.

With its historic significance and fine view of the harbor, this area became a popular place for citizens to promenade and picnic. In 1827 in an effort to re-create the beauty of the public walks that he had seen in Europe, Patterson offered the mayor of Baltimore six acres of land on the hill. The city eagerly accepted. In 1850, the city purchased another 29 acres from Patterson’s heirs. On the evening of July 13, 1853, twenty thousand citizens were there when the park was formally introduced.

Eventually, the city purchased an additional 30 acres of land and plans began to create park structures fashioned after those in Central Park. However, by 1861 when the Civil War threatened to dissolve the Union, all parks and open spaces were earmarked for troop occupation. Camp Washburn was established. Later, a hospital, Camp Patterson Park, was set up. Once again, Hampstead Hill was a strategic military lookout and fortification.

When the hospital was dismantled in 1864, the park was in deplorable condition. George A. Frederick was hired to build structural elements within the park doing much to enhance the park’s beauty by introducing a Victorian character which remains to this day. Patterson Park is blessed not only with rolling picturesque landscapes, but also with a rich and vital history.

Park superintendent, Charles H. Latrobe built what is now a Baltimore icon - the Pagoda. In 1905 Baltimore enlisted the help of the Olmsteds whose vision for parks was much different then in the past. They believed that only through its use could the park remain healthy and vital. The Olmsted extension was to be the embodiment of this philosophy. Plans were implemented to include a recreational design for the eastern section of the park. Public pools, sporting fields and playgrounds became more important to an increasing urban population. In contrast to the picturesque feel of the “old” park, this duality increased the park’s popularity.

Patterson Park is unlike any park because it has so many facets. It possesses a rich history spanning 300 years, spotlighting major historical events. It has relaxing surroundings and facilities for exercise and community gatherings. It offers great diversity while preserving architectural themes, and it serves its neighborhood well. Patterson Park is a living museum to Baltimore’s heritage and future and is by far the Best Backyard in Baltimore.