Hilltop Manor (Bladensburg, Maryland) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Hilltop Manor
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Entrance to Hilltop Manor Apartments, December 2008
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 Location in Maryland
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| Location | 4100-4112, 4200-4214 53rd Ave., 4100-4210 53rd Pl., & 5300-5304 Annapolis Rd., Bladensburg, Maryland |
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| Area | 5.6 acres (2.3 ha) |
| Built | 1942 |
| Architect | Ross & Walton |
| Architectural style | Colonial Revival, Moderne |
| NRHP reference No. | 07001288 |
| Added to NRHP | December 21, 2007 |
Hilltop Manor is a group of historic apartment buildings located in Bladensburg, Maryland. These buildings are called "garden apartments" because they are usually low-rise and have green spaces around them. The complex has eight brick buildings, which were built between 1942 and 1943.
What is Hilltop Manor?
Hilltop Manor is made up of eight brick buildings. Each building is divided into several sections, with a total of 150 apartments. Most of these apartments have one bedroom. There are also some two-bedroom apartments and even one three-bedroom apartment located in a basement. Even though the apartments have had some small updates, their original inside layouts are still mostly the same.
Building Style
The buildings at Hilltop Manor have a special look. They combine two different architectural styles: Colonial Revival and Moderne. The Colonial Revival style uses ideas from early American buildings, like classic shapes and details. The Moderne style, also known as Streamline Moderne, is more sleek and modern, with smooth lines and simple designs. Hilltop Manor shows a mix of these styles, which was common during that time.
Why Was It Built?
Hilltop Manor was built during World War II. Many people moved to the Washington, D.C. area for jobs related to the war. This caused a big need for more housing. Hilltop Manor was one of the first large apartment complexes built in Prince George's County, Maryland to help with this population growth.
It was meant to be permanent housing, not just temporary homes. This was important because many places built during the war were only temporary. The project got money through a special program called Section 608 Title VI of the National Housing Act. This program helped pay for housing during World War II.
Hilltop Manor was a good option for young, middle-class families. It was located near the established neighborhood of Defense Heights and a new elementary school. Its spot along Defense Highway also made it easy to get to Washington, D.C. The complex was designed by well-known local architects named Ross & Walton.
Historic Recognition
Because of its importance in history and its unique architecture, Hilltop Manor was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2007. This means it is recognized as a place worth preserving for future generations.
- Hilltop Manor, Prince George's County, Inventory No.: PG:69-36, at Maryland Historical Trust website
