Druid Hill

History: Within a year of the Civil War beginning, the first of several US Army camps and fortifications began encircling Druid Hill, an important location high above the city and adjacent to the Northern Central Railroad. Camp Belger, a fort on site, was occupied by the 114th and 150th New York Infantry Regiments. At least fifteen other regiments eventually encamped here near the intersection of Madison and North avenues. In July 1863, Druid Hill became known as Camp Birney, after Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton assigned Gen. William Birney to recruit African Americans for US Colored Troops regiments.

More to Explore: Druid Hill Park, home to the Maryland Zoo, is Baltimore's first large municipal park and is lined picturesque hills, lawns, monuments, trees and natural springs. The zoo is a wonderful place to see exotic animals like zebras, leopards, cheetahs, and chimpanzees. Take a relaxing stroll or bike ride through the park on the Jones Falls Trail; visit the Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens, or check out the 18-hole disc golf course. Druid Hill Park is the perfect place for a day of outdoor fun.

Photo Credits:

1. “Druid Hill Park, entrance gatway, ca. 1875.” Courtesy of Maryland Historical Society.
2. “Sgt. Maj. Christian A. Fleetwood, one of 14 USCTs awarded the Medal of Honor for heroism in the Battle of Chaffin’s Farm.”