The original settlers in the area that is now Colmar Manor arrived in the 1630s. Most were farmers, but it is reasonable to speculate that some made their livings in trades associated with the nearby Port of Bladensburg.

During the War of 1812, on August 24, 1814, the area was the scene of a major battle between American and British forces as the latter sought to occupy the nation’s capital. The place became a battlefield again in the early days of the Civil War when Confederate troops mounted an assault on Battery Jameson, which was located on the hillside that now is part of Fort Lincoln Cemetery.

As the town developed at the beginning of the 20th century, it assumed a name derived from its proximity to the District of Columbia—the first syllable of Columbia and that of Maryland were combined to form “Colmar.” The streets were named after President Woodrow Wilson (1913-21), members of his cabinet, and other prominent men of the era. Some time later, the streets were renamed to conform to the system in use in the District of Columbia. The town progressed from dirt paths to paved streets with curbs. Storm drains were installed. Soon the town had its own school and a small commercial center.

Today Colmar Manor is a tranquil town of 28 businesses and 425 homes along tree-lined streets. It has several parks and is adjacent to the hiker/biker trail system of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission. There is a fishing pier that can be reached by a path behind the baseball fields or, at high tide, from the Anacostia River.

There are activities of every description, several churches, and an American Legion Post. The shopping center, within walking distance of everyone, includes a grocery store, bank, drug store, and other purveyors of family needs. A medical clinic and several restaurants round out the community’s self-sufficiency.