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Colesville, MD

Colesville is a diverse, unincorporated community in Montgomery County, MD, just 20 km north of Washington, D.C. It is a primarily residential area with deep colonial roots, offering residents and visitors easy access to the nation's capital and a network of scenic parks and trails.

About Colesville

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

Colesville is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) located in Montgomery County, Maryland, in the United States . As an unincorporated area, it does not have its own municipal government and is often considered a neighborhood of the nearby city of Silver Spring . Its status as a CDP means its boundaries are defined by the U.S. Census Bureau for statistical purposes, and it is a recognized populated place by the U.S. Geological Survey . It is situated in a region known for being a major suburban area and a key part of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, home to numerous federal agencies, research institutions, and a highly diverse population.

Founding Date and Age

The first land in what is now Colesville was purchased from the Lords Baltimore as early as 1714 . The area's first resident farmer, Robert Lazenby, settled there in 1723 . The community's name, "Colesville," was first officially recorded on January 25, 1806, when the Maryland General Assembly designated a local home, "Edward Berry's, commonly called Coale's-Ville," as a polling place . This marks the formal recognition of the community over 200 years ago. The name may have originated from the maiden name of Elizabeth (Coale) Snowden, an early resident of the area .

Geographic Location and Coordinates

Colesville is located in the eastern part of Montgomery County, approximately 20 km (12 miles) north of downtown Washington, D.C. . Its geographic coordinates are 39°04′22″N 77°00′00″W . The community is situated between the Northwest Branch and Paint Branch of the Anacostia River . The elevation of the area is around 120-133 meters (394-436 feet) above sea level . It is a suburban residential community within the Piedmont plateau region.

Type of City and Economic Specialization

Colesville is primarily a residential suburb and a "bedroom community" for the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Its economic function is largely tied to its proximity to the nation's capital. Many of its residents commute to jobs in Washington, D.C., and other parts of Montgomery County in sectors such as government, technology, healthcare, and education. Local commerce is centered on retail and services catering to the residential population.

Population and Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the population of Colesville was 15,421 . By population size, it is classified as a small town or large census-designated place. Colesville is characterized by its remarkable ethnic and cultural diversity . According to the 2010 census, the racial makeup was 44.8% White, 28.3% African American, and 16.1% Asian, with 14.9% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino of any race . The community is a true "melting pot," with significant populations of Salvadoran, Guatemalan, Korean, Indian, Chinese, and other backgrounds .

"Visiting Card" (Brief)

Colesville is a quiet, leafy suburban community that offers a serene escape while being just a short drive from the heart of the U.S. capital. It is a perfect base for those who wish to explore the monuments and museums of Washington, D.C., while experiencing the everyday life of a diverse American suburb, with its local parks, historic sites, and easy access to the region's extensive trail systems.

Geography

Mountains and Highlands

The terrain in and around Colesville is generally gently rolling, characteristic of the Piedmont region. There are no significant mountains within the community itself. The area is part of the greater Washington, D.C. metro area, which lies at the fall line between the Piedmont and the Atlantic Coastal Plain.

Water Bodies

The main water bodies in Colesville are the two branches of the Anacostia River. The community's generally accepted boundaries extend between the Northwest Branch and Paint Branch of the Anacostia River . These streams and their valleys are central to the local park system. The 38-acre Lake Artemesia is a man-made lake located nearby in College Park, just a short distance from Colesville, and is a popular spot for fishing, walking, and nature observation .

Beaches and Coastlines

There are no beaches or coastlines in Colesville, as it is an inland community located within the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.

Deserts, Canyons, and Unique Landscapes

There are no deserts or canyons in or near Colesville. The natural landscape is defined by the forested stream valleys of the Northwest Branch and Paint Branch, which create scenic, rugged gorges. The area around Burnt Mills East Special Park, just a short drive from Colesville, offers a beautiful gorge and hiking experience .

National and Nature Parks

Colesville is surrounded by an extensive network of parks and trails, many of which are part of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission.

Islands and Archipelagos

There are no islands or archipelagos in or near this inland Maryland community.

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Colesville has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) , characterized by four distinct seasons with hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters . It is part of the greater Washington, D.C. region, which experiences a full range of weather patterns.

Average Temperatures by Month

Based on data for the nearby Washington, D.C. area, which is representative of Colesville :

Precipitation and Humidity

Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year.

Sunny Days and UV Index

The Washington metropolitan area enjoys a fair amount of sunshine, with about 200-210 sunny days per year. The UV index can reach high or very high levels during the late spring and summer, making sun protection advisable for outdoor activities.

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

Landmarks

Architectural and Historic Landmarks

The oldest standing house in Colesville is "Milimar" (also known as "The Old Lazanby Home") located at 410 Randolph Road . Built around 1790, this historic home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places . It is believed to have been built by Samuel and Mary Peach on a tract known as "Peaches Lot" . Another historic house, built in 1850, still stands at 13910 Notley Road and was used as a school in the late 1800s . Also of note is the Smithville Colored School, founded in 1927. It was one of sixteen schools for African American children in the county built with assistance from the Julius Rosenwald Fund, and it stands as a significant piece of local and educational history .

Memorials and Symbolic Monuments

While Colesville does not have large, grand memorials, its landscape is dotted with places that serve as community anchors. The Colesville United Methodist Church and the Holy Family Seminary (headquarters for the American Delegation of the Sons of the Holy Family, established in 1946) are important religious and community institutions .

Park Sculpture and Decorative Art

The primary "art" in Colesville's public spaces is natural. The parks, such as Valley Mill Park, feature historical remnants like the 1879 mill built by Franklin Pilling on Paint Branch, which ceased operation by 1930 and now serves as a scenic historic structure . The area's many trails, including the Rock Creek Trail and paths around Lake Artemesia, offer ever-changing natural beauty .

Transport

Main Airports

Colesville is exceptionally well-served by three major airports in the Washington-Baltimore region .

Other Airports

For general aviation, there are smaller airports in the vicinity, including Montgomery County Airpark (GAI/KGAI) about 9 miles away and the historic College Park Airport (KCGS) , the world's oldest continuously operating airport, also about 9 miles from Colesville .

Main Railway Stations

Colesville does not have its own train station, but it is within easy reach of major rail hubs. Residents and visitors can access Union Station in Washington, D.C., a major hub for Amtrak (including the high-speed Acela Express) and MARC commuter trains. The Silver Spring and New Carrollton MARC stations (on the Brunswick and Penn Lines) are also relatively close.

Public Transport System

Colesville is served by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) , which operates the Metrobus system. Several Metrobus routes run through the area along major thoroughfares like New Hampshire Avenue (MD 650) and Columbia Pike (US 29), connecting Colesville to the Metrorail system. The nearest Metrorail stations are on the Red Line, including Glenmont and Wheaton, providing direct rail access to downtown Washington, D.C., and other parts of the region.

Major Highways

Colesville's location provides excellent access to the region's highway network.

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

While Colesville itself is a primarily residential area, its dining scene reflects the diverse cultural tapestry of the broader Washington, D.C. suburbs. You'll find a mix of international flavors, with a notable presence of Salvadoran and Asian cuisine.

A Taste of El Salvador: Pupusas

For an authentic taste of Salvadoran cuisine, locals recommend El Amate Restaurant. This spot is known for its good, budget-friendly food, and is particularly famous for its pupusas . These are thick, handmade corn tortillas stuffed with a variety of savory fillings like cheese, beans, or pork (chicharrón). They are typically served with a side of tangy curtido (a pickled cabbage slaw) and a thin tomato salsa. Pupusas are a staple of Salvadoran street food and home cooking, and El Amate offers a great opportunity to try this comforting dish right in Colesville .

Asian Flavors in the Neighborhood

Colesville is also home to Noodle King Restaurant, a place recommended by locals for its noodle dishes . As the name suggests, the menu likely features a variety of Asian noodle soups and stir-fries, offering another flavorful and casual dining option in the area .

Nearby Culinary Destination: Mrs. K's Toll House

Just a short drive away in nearby Silver Spring, at 9201 Colesville Rd, you'll find Mrs. K's Toll House, a true local culinary gem . Housed in a beautifully transformed historic house, this restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience with a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. It is highly recommended for its diverse menu and outstanding service.

Mrs. K's is perhaps best known for its Sunday brunch, which is described as a must-experience event . The brunch buffet features a wide array of delectable options, including:

Beyond brunch, the regular menu features classic Maryland dishes, and their crab cakes are said to be proof of the restaurant's local roots . With its scenic outdoor seating, cozy cellar for intimate dinners, and attentive staff, Mrs. K's Toll House is a perfect destination for everything from a special celebration to a relaxed meal. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for Sunday brunch .

Museums

Colesville is home to a unique and fascinating museum dedicated to the history of urban transportation.

National Capital Trolley Museum

The National Capital Trolley Museum is the premier cultural attraction in Colesville, offering a unique journey into the past . Established in 1969, the museum preserves the heritage of the streetcar and its impact on the development of communities in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia .

The museum's collection features over 17 historic streetcars from six different nations, including models that once ran on the streets of D.C., Baltimore, and other major cities . The highlight of any visit is the opportunity to take a ride on one of these beautifully restored trolleys along a mile of track that winds through the scenic, wooded trails of Northwest Branch Park . This ride provides a tangible connection to the transit systems that shaped urban life from 1862 to 1962 .

The Visitor Center houses engaging exhibits that tell the story of the region's transportation history. The museum is open to the public on Saturdays from 12:00 noon to 5:00 pm . General admission is $12, with reduced rates for seniors and children . It is located at 1313 Bonifant Road .

Universities and Higher Education

While there are no universities located directly within the small community of Colesville, it is exceptionally well-positioned near some of the nation's most prestigious institutions of higher learning. There are 64 colleges within a 50-mile radius of Colesville, making it an ideal location for those seeking access to a wide range of educational opportunities .

Here are some of the most notable universities located within a short drive:

Healthcare Facilities and Services

For residents of Colesville, a range of healthcare and social services are accessible both within the community and in the surrounding area.

DHHS Colesville Center

The DHHS Colesville Center, operated by the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services, is located at 14015 New Hampshire Avenue . This facility offers specific administrative services for residents. Notably, it is home to the African American Health Program. It is important to note that no other DHHS services are available at this location . The center is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm .

Whole Woman's Health of Baltimore

For comprehensive reproductive healthcare services, Whole Woman's Health of Baltimore serves patients in the Colesville area . This clinic offers a full spectrum of services including first and second-trimester in-clinic abortion procedures, medication abortion (the abortion pill) up to 11 weeks, annual exams, birth control (including IUDs and implants), STI testing and treatment, and options counseling . They accept many major insurance plans, and Medicaid covers abortion in Maryland. The clinic can also provide information on financial assistance options . Their services are available in person and via telemedicine .

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