Andrew Ellicott modified Pierre L'Enfant's plan making what was street right of way into open space.

Tree species include the copper beech, southern magnolia, yellowwood, hackberry, eastern redbud, deodar cedar, and American holly.

The block to the south of Folger Park was the original site of Providence Hospital.

In 1864 President Abraham Lincoln signed an Act of Congress authorizing funds for the construction of a five-story brick Second Empire-style building with Italianate features.

In 1904 the building was expanded to four times its original capacity and remodeled into a Mission style, including the 175-foot bell tower, according to the design of architect Waddy Butler Wood.