Wesley Heights was developed in the 1920s by W.C. and A.N. Miller, who also developed the neighboring communities of Spring Valley and American University Park. Wesley Heights was one of the first master planned communities in the United States and originally featured such services as a shuttle to the Wisconsin Avenue streetcar and a community club house which now houses private offices.
In 1929 as the development of Wesley Heights continued, the Miller Company acquired upward of 300 acres to the west for continued development to be known as Spring Valley. Spring Valley was the first curvilinear development of an such magnitude in DC. The curvilinear street design allowed for the winding roads to fit the contour of the hills and valleys in such a way to preserve many of the original trees.
The Spring Valley Wesley Citizens Association (SVWHCA) was initially incorporated in 1952. Since that time, SVWHCA has always included all residents as "members" and has relied on voluntary dues payments.
Spring Valley and Wesley Heights' residents have included many notable personalities including those in media, politics, sports and Washington Society.
After the second world war, General of the Army Omar Bradley moved to a house on Indian Lane. Washington Senator's Stanley R. "Bucky" Harris lived on Hillbrook Lane. Bucky Harris led the team to its 1924 World Series victory. Richard Nixon lived in both Spring Valley and Wesley Heights before becoming President. Lyndon B. Johnson moved to Spring Valley after becoming Vice President living at the beautiful mansion named Les Ormes (The Elms) in Spring Valley. Les Olmes had previously been the home of socialite and Ambassador Perle Mesta. George H. W. Bush also lived in the neighborhood prior to his White House years. Warren Buffet and sister Doris Buffett lived on 49th Street during their years attending Wilson High School.
Several embassy residences are located in the neighborhood, such as the ambassador's houses of South Korea, Canada, Croatia, Mexico, Bahrain, Qatar, Uganda, Chile, Luxembourg, Algeria , and Yeman.
SVWHCA throughout the years has continued to be involved in a wide range of land use issues as an advocate for neighborhood interests, including historic designation, campus planning, various zoning issues, along with ever changing committees that have included a garden club to various social events. Presently, the SVWHCA may have community gatherings to present issues of interest to the total community.
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4601 Tilden Street NW, Washington, DC 20016, US
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