Franklin Square, Garden square in downtown Washington, D.C., United States.
Franklin Square is a garden square in downtown Washington, D.C., spanning roughly 5 acres from I Street to K Street with varied terrain. The space features mature trees, open grass, a central fountain, and a dedicated children's garden.
The U.S. government acquired the land in 1832 and transformed natural springs into a public space for the city. During the Civil War, the grounds served as an encampment for soldiers.
The western area displays a statue honoring John Barry, a naval commander from the Revolutionary War whose contributions to American independence are remembered through public art.
The square was comprehensively renovated in 2021, making it more accessible with improved lighting and wider walkways. An outdoor restaurant and children's play area are available on-site for visitors.
An adjacent school building was where Alexander Graham Bell transmitted his first wireless message in 1880. This pioneering moment in communication technology happened just steps away from the square.
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