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Forest Heights began as a
builder’s subdivision in 1941. Before long, there was a Forest
Heights Citizens Association, and before the end of the decade
essentially the same institution was functioning as the formal
government of an incorporated municipality. At that time the
town covered 166 acres straddling Indian Head Highway. There was
a population of about 1,000.
The first mayor and town council meeting was held on May 18,
1949. In August 1952, the first policeman was sworn in—for
part-time duty only. In January 1961, Forest Heights became the
first town in Prince George’s County to adopt a “Sister City”
under the “people-to-people” project sponsored by the White
House and the American Municipal League. Villaviciosa, in the
Philippines, was the town selected.
Today, the town’s police force has five full-time members.
There are three parks: “Tayac,” named for the Tayac Indians, and
“Lura” and “Armhold” named for two outstanding citizens of the
community. A monument in Lura Park is dedicated to the memory of
“Our Fellow Citizens Who Gave Their Lives in World War II.”
Forest Heights Recreation Council and Forest Heights Homemakers
were established early in the life of the town and have remained
active ever since.
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