In 1941, a small neighborhood of 256 homes was established in a wooded area alongside what was then known as Defense Highway (now Annapolis Road, Rt. 450). In those early days, the community had no paved roads, sewers, gas lines, or county services. To tackle these challenges together, residents formed The West Lanham Hills Citizens’ Association — a volunteer-led group dedicated to improving and maintaining their neighborhood. Over the decades, neighbors worked tirelessly to create opportunities and amenities that benefit everyone.