By Elizabeth Sheehy

On Wednesday, February 12, the Lyon Park neighborhood unveiled three interpretive historical markers adjacent to its community house. The signs profile the history of the Lyon Park neighborhood, stories behind the building itself, and interactive information about the surrounding parkland, trees, and native plants. Despite the significant snowfall which caused school closures in Arlington, the ribbon cutting proceeded as planned. Michael Kunkler, the LPCA President, and David Newman, Chairman of the Lyon Park Board of Governors, officially christened the signs, with remarks from community members including Elizabeth Sheehy and Toby McIntosh of the Lyon Park History Committee and Richard Samp, Treasurer of the Arlington Historical Society. Lorin Farris of the Arlington Historic Preservation Fund, though unable to attend, sent along her congratulations.

Funding for the historic markers came from a grant to the Lyon Park Citizens Association from Arlington County’s Historic Preservation Fund. The fund seeks to preserve Arlington’s history, connecting people to their community through education and the sharing of stories from the past. The community center display case, where photos and history will be shared, should be installed by early March, and will be inaugurated at the O’Chili Cook-off, March 16. This year, Lyon Park is celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Lyon Park Community Center, so save the date of Saturday, July 26 for a community-wide Picnic in the Park.