The park-like area is named after James B. McPherson, a major general who fought in the Union Army during the American Civil War before he was killed at the Battle of Atlanta.

On February 4, 2012, United States Park Police officers, citing no-camping statutes, evicted the occupiers.

Activists countered by arguing that the government was not giving the homeless population a good alternative, and were leaving them with little support while closing down several of their encampments across the city.

[3] The square is frequented by area workers, street vendors, and restaurant-goers during the day, and homeless people at night.

[4] Due to its proximity to the White House, it is the site of political rallies and falls on the path of various protest marches.