Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Neighborhood Profile: Baldwin Park


Nestled to the southeast of Savannah’s Victorian District is the quaint residential neighborhood of Baldwin Park.  Within these few blocks you can see an architectural timeline of downtown Savannah.  From the Victorian homes and mansions that line its border on Victory Drive to the early 20th century bungalows that make up most of the neighborhood, every home has character and charm.  Originally this neighborhood was part of the Chatham Crescent development, an area known for its curvilinear streets, roundabouts, and parks.  With the creation of Victory Drive in 1919 Chatham Crescent was separated, and the north end became what is today known as Baldwin Park.  

Baldwin Park
At the center of this neighborhood is its namesake, a circular park that is the ideal environment for walking, picnics, and recreation.  From the park, looking to the south, you can see the center of Chatham Crescent, picturesquely lined with palmetto trees, all the way down to Hedeman Park and the Savannah Arts Academy on Washington Avenue.

Atlantic Avenue looking south to Savannah Arts Academy.
Baldwin Park has a healthy and vibrant community network, making it perfect for young families who like to know their neighbors.  Block parties, organized yard sales, and even outdoor movie nights make this area a one-of-kind gem for midtown Savannah.  These happy residents are quite diverse in every respect, from age, to occupation, to race, to income, and it’s this diversity that adds to its richness and character.

Great neighbors aside, the residents here also have an outstanding location that puts them in close proximity to the best of Savannah.  Baldwin Park is just far enough from the hub-bub of downtown without feeling too far removed from the cultural activities of Forsyth Park and Broughton St.  Mere blocks outside this close-knit community you have several churches, restaurants, and antique shops all in walking distance.   Look to the east and you have Daffin Park and Grayson Stadium.   Have a car?  Living here provides easy access to Abercorn Street, Victory Drive, and the Truman Parkway connecting you to Savannah’s Southside and the nearby islands.

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