One of Bethesda’s historical neighborhoods, Carderock Springs, celebrated its 50th anniversary this past weekend, and the neighborhood’s original planner was on hand to greet residents via Skype.
On Saturday evening, residents gathered in the neighborhood’s clubhouse to toast its golden anniversary and share videos, photographs, and memories of a place so cherished that many of the attendees included original owners from the 1960’s, as well as children who grew up in the neighborhood and came back as adults to purchase their own family homes. The anniversary celebration was sponsored and organized by the Carderock Springs Citizens Association.
Joining the party via video conference from his home in Arizona was Edmund Bennett, the visionary developer and builder behind Carderock Springs. Born in Chevy Chase in 1920, Bennett grew up with big ambitions, a strong sense of community, and a commanding respect for nature. He designed and built the 400 mid-century modern homes of Carderock Springs with nature in mind, seamlessly blending the architecture of each home into its natural terrain and surroundings.
During the party, many residents also got a first look at the newly-built outdoor pavilion located at the neighborhood’s Swim and Tennis Club. Dinner was catered by Spilled Milk Catering, and the night was capped with dancing and live music by Carderock’s own Jonas Carnemark and his band, HusBand .
Bounded by 1-495, Cabin John Regional Park, Seven Locks Road Fenway Road, and Persimmon Tree Lane, the Carderock Springs neighborhood of Bethesda was officially declared a Historical District in 2008.