What is Reed Square?
Why did the Reed Square Foundation buy Reed Square?
Why make Reed Square a memorial garden?
How has the Reed Square Foundation protected the property in perpetuity from development?
What is Reed Square?
Reed Square is located in the St. John’s Church Old and Historic District in Richmond, Virginia. Reed Square is a fenced green space at 110 North 26th Street between East Grace and East Franklin Streets. The Historic Richmond Foundation (HRF) acquired the property in 1964 and sold it to the Reed Square Foundation in 2004.
Why did the Reed Square Foundation buy Reed Square?
The Reed Square Foundation bought Reed Square to protect it from development and to honor Church Hill benefactors. In February 2002, it became clear that the Historic Richmond Foundation no longer wished to own or maintain Reed Square and that its development was a distinct possibility. Reed Square is one of the last undeveloped pieces of property in the immediate area. The founders of the Reed Square Foundation oppose any structural or residential development on the property. It adjoins one of the oldest and most historic homes in the neighborhood, the Turner/Reed House at 2520 East Franklin (built between 1803 and 1810). The street has its original stone paving.
Why make Reed Square a garden memorial?
In thinking about alternatives to development and the best use of the property, the Foundation recognized that the neighborhood lacked a memorial to its principal benefactors who championed the cause of historic preservation on Church Hill. Without them this historic neighborhood would not exist. In 2007, the district will celebrate its 50th anniversary. As old residents move away and new residents move in, a sense of what was required to establish this area is fading from public memory. By establishing Reed Square as a garden memorial the Reed Square Foundation hopes to keep alive interest in historic preservation and appreciation for the sacrifices many people made to make the historic district a reality.
Who is the Memorial for?
The memorial honors these benefactors who played key roles in the success of the St. John’s Church Old and Historic District:
Mary Ross Scott Reed
Elisabeth Scott Bocock
S. Douglas Fleet
Louise F. Catterall
How has the Reed Square Foundation protected the property in perpetuity from development?
The Foundation has donated a conservation easement to the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Historic Resouces. The Easement prevents commercial or residential development on the property while allowing continued maintenance and improvements to the landscaping.