Leone Riverside Park

August 1, 1877

The origins of Riverside Park date back to the early 1800's. During the War of 1812, Major General Samuel Smith ordered Captain Samuel Babcock to build a circular battery here called Fort Lookout. Commanded by Lt. George Budd during the Battle of Baltimore, the battery played a key role in the defense of the city on the night of September 13th into the early morning of September 14th, 1814. Combined with the garrisons at Forts Covington and Babcock, the forces at Fort Lookout repelled a British attempt to assault the peninsula by land, saving the city. After the battle, the fort was renamed Fort Wood in honor of Captain Eleazer Wood and the site remained in limited use through the mid 1800s.

In 1854, three acres of the old fort were approved for public use and were renamed Battery Square. Baltimore City purchased the three acres from President James Polk in 1862. The city acquired an additional 14 acres to the south of Battery Square in 1873. The combined property was renamed Riverside Park, making it one of the city's earliest parks.

During the Baltimore Railroad Riots of 1877, the park served as an encampment for the MD 5th Regiment, where they guarded the South Baltimore rail lines after assisting with the riots downtown. On August 1st, the MD 5th put on an exhibition for the local residents.

During the late 1800's, the Public Parks Commission made several improvements to the park, including a large marble fountain, a nursery, and installation of iron railings and gas lighting. Throughout the 1900's, a pool, playgrounds, sports fields, and courts were added. Concerts and events at the gazebo were popular for the immigrant community. The gazebo continues to host events and is a significant symbol for the local citizens.

Circa 1925

In October 1976, the park was renamed Leone Riverside Park in memory of Dominic Leone, Sr. He served as Baltimore City's Labor Secretary before becoming a City Councilman in 1962. He represented the 6th district on the council until his death on April 13, 1976. He was survived by a loving wife and 3 children.

# Leone Riverside Park

August 1, 1877

Circa 1925.