Pagoda and Cannons - Infrared
by ELDavis Photography
Title
Pagoda and Cannons - Infrared
Artist
ELDavis Photography
Medium
Photograph - Digital Photograph
Description
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. By water, British troops entered the Patapsco River and bombarded Fort McHenry. By land, they amassed forces at North Point. As they marched on to Baltimore and looked up to Hampstead Hill they saw Rodger�s Bastion � including 100 cannons and 20,000 troops. This sight led the British to return to their ships and leave the Port of Baltimore.
With its historic significance and fine view of the harbor, the area became a popular place for citizens to stroll and picnic. In 1827, William Patterson offered the mayor of Baltimore six acres of land on the hill. In 1850, the city purchased another 29 acres from Patterson�s heirs, and on the evening of July 13, 1853, Patterson Park was formally opened as a public space.
The Pagoda, originally known as the Observatory, was designed in 1890 by Charles H. Latrobe, then Superintendent of Parks. While known as the Pagoda because of its oriental architectural appearance, the design was intended to reflect the bold Victorian style of the day. From the top of the tower one can view downtown, Baltimore�s many neighborhoods, the Patapsco River, the Key Bridge and Fort McHenry.
Over time and due to natural decay, vandalism, and lack of maintenance funds, the Pagoda was closed to the public in 1951. With the restoration completed in the spring of 2002, the Pagoda now stands as an iconic structure for Patterson Park and Baltimore City and signified the renaissance of the community around Patterson Park. The site remains a popular location for many community programs and events.
The Pagoda is operated, maintained and staffed by The Friends of Patterson Park and volunteers. The Pagoda is open 12 noon to 6 pm on Sundays from mid-April through mid-October.
Uploaded
October 21st, 2014
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