13. 26th and O Street

26th and O Street, NW
Photo by Bob Rives

Rose Park Playground

One of the first integrated parks in Washington DC, it was a family meeting place, hosted mass political rallies, recreational sports, picnics, and church events.  Many famous tennis pros and celebrities came to play the Peters sisters at the park. One such celebrity was movie star Gene Kelly. The park was designated as “colored only”. Citizens of Georgetown, both African American and white, petitioned the DC government to remove signs and continue Rose Park as a space for all people.

(Source: National Park Service)