Existing comment:
Minnehaha Creek:
This deep ravine and rocky creek are typical of streams in the Potomac River Valley. Today Minnehaha Creek flows freely through Glen Echo Park.
Changes made to the creek during the past 100 years mirror the history of Glen Echo Park.
The arrival of the Glen Echo Chatauqua changed Minnehaha Creek; a large amphitheater was constructed in the creek bed in 1891. Here students gathered for lectures until a malaria scare closed the Chautauqua in 1892. Later, in 1899, a Glen Echo company developed the site into an amusement park. A remodeled amphitheater opened as the "Midway" in 1911.
Glen Echo Park's popularity again changed Minnehaha Creek. In 1959 park owners extended the parking lot by removing the "Midway" and installing a large metal pipe or culvert. For 33 years Minnehaha Creek flowed silently underground until record breaking rains collapsed the parking lot and culvert in 1989. Following the flood, the National Park Service restored the creek's natural stream bed. Look closely along the banks to spot signs of Minnehaha Creek's past. |