Donaldson Run facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Donaldson Run |
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| Country | United States |
| Location | Arlington County, Virginia |
| Physical characteristics | |
| River mouth | Potomac River 0 feet (0 m) |
Donaldson Run is a small stream located in Arlington County, Virginia. It starts near Marymount University and flows northeast. This stream eventually joins the mighty Potomac River. Donaldson Run is mostly surrounded by beautiful forests. It's a great place to explore nature!
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History of Donaldson Run
Donaldson Run got its name from Robert H. Donaldson. He was an early farmer who owned land along the Potomac River. His family had lived and farmed there for many years.
How the Donaldson Family Settled Here
The land was first settled by James Donaldson before 1755. His son, William, inherited the land around the time of the American Revolutionary War. William then passed the farm to his son, Robert. Robert Donaldson's family continued to work the farm, even through the Civil War. Their farm wagon, named "Donaldson & Sons," carried produce to Georgetown. This was a tough trip, especially in bad weather.
Donaldson Run During the Civil War
During the Civil War, many forts were built in the area. These forts protected Washington, D.C. from Confederate forces. Most of the trees in the area were cut down during this time. This caused a lot of damage to the land. Much of the topsoil washed away, leading to serious erosion. However, one good thing came from this: new roads were built, like North Military Road. These roads made travel much easier.
Changing Names of the Stream
In the late 1800s, Donaldson Run was a popular spot. People came here to swim and launch boats. It was first called Rock Run in the early 1800s. Later, it was known as Swimming Landing Run. By 1900, the stream's name officially became Donaldson Run.
Protecting Donaldson Run from Development
In 1961, there was a plan to pave over parts of Donaldson Run. This would have turned sections of the stream into a storm sewer. The plan was part of a project to extend Yorktown Boulevard. But people in the community were worried about the environment. Because of their concerns, the project was stopped.
In the 1960s, land south of Donaldson Run was set aside as a park. Today, this area is known as Potomac Overlook Regional Park. It also includes the James I. Mayer Center for Environmental Education.
Parks Along Donaldson Run
Several parks are located along the banks of Donaldson Run. These parks offer great opportunities to enjoy nature and explore.
- Lee Heights Park (managed by Arlington County Parks and Recreation)
- Zachary Taylor Park (managed by Arlington County Parks and Recreation)
- Donaldson Run Nature Area (managed by Arlington County Parks and Recreation)
- Potomac Overlook Regional Park (managed by Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority)
- George Washington Memorial Parkway (managed by the US National Park Service)
Wildlife in Donaldson Run's Forests
The forests along Donaldson Run are home to many different kinds of trees. You can find tall tulip poplars, strong oaks, and beautiful beech trees. However, some plants that are not native to the area have also grown here. These include English ivy, Japanese honeysuckle, bamboo, and garlic mustard. These foreign plants have taken over much of the natural undergrowth.
Animals You Might See
Many different mammals live in the forests along Donaldson Run. Keep an eye out for deer, possums, raccoons, woodchucks, and foxes. You might also spot squirrels, flying squirrels, bats, shrews, and moles.
Fun Things to Do at Donaldson Run
Donaldson Run offers several attractions for visitors.
- There is a clear nature trail through Zachary Taylor Park. This trail has several pretty footbridges.
- You can also find a hiking trail through the Donaldson Run Nature Area. This trail leads all the way to the Potomac River. From there, hikers can join the Potomac Heritage Trail, which runs next to the George Washington Memorial Parkway.
- Donaldson Run flows down the Potomac Palisades. It makes a 30-foot drop before reaching the Potomac River. This creates a scenic view.
- Potomac Overlook Park, located on the south side of the stream, has a nature center. It also features exhibits about local wildlife and the area's history.
