Georgian-style homes date back to America’s beginnings. Symmetry is the basis of Georgian-style homes, along with classic proportions and decorative elements. As the wealthy arrived, many of them built grand homes in this style through the Revolutionary War period as was common during the eras of King George I, II and III.
Over time, the popularity of this style waned over time in favor of other styles of grand homes, however, there are still some modern builds of Georgian architecture too. In the Washington D.C. area, there are several excellent examples of the beautiful Georgian architecture, many which are open to the public to see.
Gunston Hall
One of the finest examples of Georgian architecture is right here in Northern Virginia at Gunston Hall, about 20 miles south of the District off of Route 1 (Richmond Highway). George Mason, one of America's Founding Fathers, began construction of his home in 1755 and build was completed in 1759.
The caretakers of this home keep it in remarkable condition inside and out. Tours are daily, excepting Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. I've taken this tour numerous times and always learn something new either about the build, George Mason the man or some other interesting tidbit about that era. Gunston Hall is located at 10709 Gunston Rd, Lorton, Va.
The grand home of Marjorie Merriweather Post is another fine example of Georgian architecture that is open to the public to enjoy. Originally built in the 1930s, Mrs. Post purchased the home in 1955 and lived there for roughly 20 years, bringing her amazing art collection and improving on the home with lavish embellishments.
Woodlawn, just a hop, skip and a jump, from George Washington’s Mount Vernon, was the home of Lawrence Lewis (Washington’s nephew) and Eleanor “Nelly” Parke Custis (Martha Washington’s granddaughter). Washington had given the newlyweds some of the lands from his own Mount Vernon property in 1799 for them to build their own home.
Chatham Manor is a bit off the beaten path from the District as it is located about an hour south of the District near Fredericksburg (however, it makes for a great day or weekend trip as there is much to do in the area). Chatham Manor is an excellent example of Georgian architecture that remains from the 18th century. Built between 1768 and 1771 by William Fitzhugh, the home was positioned to overlook the Rappahannock River.
The Maples, also known as The Friendship House or Duncanson House, is found in the heart of D.C. on D Street SE and stands as the oldest building in Capitol Hill. This house is not open to the public as it appears to have been converted to private residences but I wanted to include this one for those interested in the architecture who may want to take a look. Constructed in 1795-96 by William Mayne Duncanson, a local merchant, it was once a grand home in the earliest days of the city. Since its original build, the home has undergone many renovations and additions, and it appears much effort has been put into restoring the home to its 18th-century appearance (I haven’t seen this one).
If you head north to Annapolis, Maryland, you’ll also find several fine examples of Georgian architecture including the Hammond-Harwood House, William Paca House, and the Brice House, to name a few.
If you love architecture and history (most of these homes were built by notable residents who were Founding Fathers, governors, prosperous merchants or other prominent citizens), the fine Georgian examples in the greater D.C. area are excellent. I’m always amazed at the effort of preservation that takes place in this region.
Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens
The grand home of Marjorie Merriweather Post is another fine example of Georgian architecture that is open to the public to enjoy. Originally built in the 1930s, Mrs. Post purchased the home in 1955 and lived there for roughly 20 years, bringing her amazing art collection and improving on the home with lavish embellishments.
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| Image credit: By Jllm06 - Own work, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7411525 |
Prior to her death, Mrs. Post decided she wanted to share her home and art collection with future generations. The estate opened to the public in 1977 and continues to offer ongoing tours. Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens is located just a few miles from downtown D.C. at 4155 Linnean Avenue, NW Washington, DC.
Woodlawn
The home is not a true Georgian, but it does have Georgian elements blended with the popular Federal style which was emerging in that era. Open seasonally, visitors can tour the home and property on Fridays through Mondays from April through fall (in 2017 it closed on Dec. 12). Woodlawn is located at 9000 Richmond Highway, Alexandria, Va.
Chatham Manor
Chatham Manor is a bit off the beaten path from the District as it is located about an hour south of the District near Fredericksburg (however, it makes for a great day or weekend trip as there is much to do in the area). Chatham Manor is an excellent example of Georgian architecture that remains from the 18th century. Built between 1768 and 1771 by William Fitzhugh, the home was positioned to overlook the Rappahannock River.
Over the centuries the property saw many important people pass through its doors; it also played a pivotal role in the Civil War serving as a hospital. Today, the property is run by the National Park Service and is open to the public. This tour is a little different than other tours since it’s not furnished or set up to interpret any one resident’s life. There are interesting exhibits located throughout the lower floor’s rooms; the grounds and gardens are also nice to tour. Chatham is located at 120 Chatham Ln, Fredericksburg, Va.
The Maples
The Maples, also known as The Friendship House or Duncanson House, is found in the heart of D.C. on D Street SE and stands as the oldest building in Capitol Hill. This house is not open to the public as it appears to have been converted to private residences but I wanted to include this one for those interested in the architecture who may want to take a look. Constructed in 1795-96 by William Mayne Duncanson, a local merchant, it was once a grand home in the earliest days of the city. Since its original build, the home has undergone many renovations and additions, and it appears much effort has been put into restoring the home to its 18th-century appearance (I haven’t seen this one).
If you head north to Annapolis, Maryland, you’ll also find several fine examples of Georgian architecture including the Hammond-Harwood House, William Paca House, and the Brice House, to name a few.
If you love architecture and history (most of these homes were built by notable residents who were Founding Fathers, governors, prosperous merchants or other prominent citizens), the fine Georgian examples in the greater D.C. area are excellent. I’m always amazed at the effort of preservation that takes place in this region.
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