The History of the 495 Bridge Graffiti (Near the DC Temple)
The first form of ‘Surrender Dorothy’ that was seen on the bridge leading up to the LDS temple on 495 was created with wadded up newspapers that were placed in the chain link fence by Catholic school girls. More specifically, young ladies from Holy Child’s graduating classes of 1973-76. They went with the now locally famous phrase for two reasons; the temple reminded many of Emerald City and The Wizard of Oz was the school play that was coming up a few weeks later. The papers were removed within 24 hours.
In the mid-80s, the phrase popped up again. This time in a more permanent fashion, as it had been spray painted on the side of the bridge. There were different variations of ‘Surrender Dorothy’ written in the bridge through the years. There are also many rumors as to who the artist behind the longer lasting version was, but never any confirmation.
A few years back, a new message was posted. The word Fugazi on one side with “crot” and “voyer” on the other. Fugazi was a local punk-rock band, but they had not played a show in over a decade when the graffiti appeared around 2014. There are rumors that Crot and Voyer are the names of a couple taggers that were tagging things in very visible places around the D.C. area, but that has not been confirmed either.
In February of this year the graffiti took a political turn as the latest message read “Bridges not walls.” That one didn’t last long, as it was painted over just a few days later.
Photos c/o the Montgomery Journal, Washington Post, DC Metro Area Vintage Photos.
Recent Stories
Montgomery College will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, April 26 at 9am for its High-Tech Manufacturing Facility at 19710 Observation Dr. in Germantown.
Sydney’s Burger at Westfield Wheaton Mall (11160 Veirs Mill Rd) has closed.
Wootton High School is hosting an Acappella Showcase featuring seven acappella groups from five different schools. The event will take place on May 13th from 6 pm-8 pm at Wootton…
Metro, along with the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT), Montgomery County, and the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) will offer a range of travel options for customers affected by this…
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
