The dynamic growth of Rockville from a rural county seat in the 1930s to a thriving modern city at the close of the 20th century helped shaped its unique identity. The town transformed as an explosive postwar housing boom brought new residents, new architectural styles and modern amenities with each innovative development. This generation of residents, developers, and civic leaders ushered in an era of growth and change as they called for modern planning, policies and amenities.

Peerless Rockville invites you to learn more about this dynamic period of development as we continue our popular “Modern Living for a Modern City” series. Much as the Victorian period of earlier years brought grand homes and distinctive architecture to our community, the postwar era with its neighborhoods of modest homes, sleek modern architecture and forward thinking planning has also left a lasting imprint for Rockville to embrace. Through illustrated presentations and guided walks, Peerless will explore the histories of Rockcrest, Hungerford and College Gardens, three vibrant neighborhoods of Rockville’s recent past.

 To learn more about these communities, plan to attend one or all three of the upcoming events where local researchers, planners, historians and residents will offer a glimpse into the early development of these neighborhoods and share important milestones of their growth. All events are free and open to the public.

 Rockcrest, featuring Jessica Reynolds, economic development professional and Rockville Historic District Commissioner, 10 am on Saturday, March 29, at the Twinbrook Community Recreation Center, 12920 Twinbrook Parkway.

Hungerford, presented by historian and author, Teresa Lachin, 10 am on Saturday, April 12, at the Elwood Smith Community Center, 601 Harrington Lane.

College Gardens, with Nancy Pickard, Programs Manager at Peerless Rockville, 10 am on Saturday, April 26, at the Rockville Senior Center, 1150 Carnation Drive.

Additional information about this series can be viewed on our events page.