Dumbarton House is a Federal-style house museum at 2715 Q St NW in Georgetown, Washington, DC. Built around 1800, it was home to Joseph Nourse, the first Register of the U.S. Treasury, and later sheltered First Lady Dolley Madison as she fled the White House in 1814. Inside, you can see period furnishings and decorative arts, plus an exhibition on the upper floor. The house sits beside a garden, and its program includes events such as afternoon tea and chamber music. Check ahead before planning a visit, as public access may be limited.
A Georgetown house from around 1800
Dumbarton House was built around 1800, when the federal government was still based in Philadelphia. Its first occupant was Joseph Nourse, the first Register of the U.S. Treasury. The brick house is a Washington example of Federal-period architecture, with forms inspired by classical Roman design.
The house later became the headquarters of the National Society of The Colonial Dames of America. Its principal floors opened as a house museum in 1932. The property combines the historic residence with exhibition space and a garden.
Inside the house museum
The collection includes household furnishings, paintings, decorative arts and furniture from the early years of the republic. A visit can take in displays on both floors, with an upper-floor exhibition that changes periodically.
The house is associated with First Lady Dolley Madison’s flight from the White House in 1814, when British troops were approaching. She took shelter at Dumbarton House before continuing to Virginia. The connection gives the rooms a place in the story of Washington during the War of 1812.
Garden and public events
The garden is part of the visit and also hosts some of the house’s events. Past programming has included Jane Austen film nights, ice cream making, family afternoon tea and chamber music concerts. Check the current program before travelling, since public access and events can change.
Dumbarton House is also used for private events, including weddings. The grounds include a garden, terrace and walled courtyard. Visitors coming for the museum should check in advance whether the house is open to the public on their chosen date.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Dumbarton House?
It is at 2715 Q St NW in Georgetown, Washington, DC.
What can you see inside Dumbarton House?
The museum displays household furnishings, paintings and decorative arts from the early years of the republic, along with exhibitions on both floors.
What is Dumbarton House’s connection to Dolley Madison?
First Lady Dolley Madison took shelter at the house in 1814 while fleeing the approaching British troops, before continuing to Virginia.
Is Dumbarton House open to the public?
Public access may be limited. Check the website for current visiting and event information before you go.
