Dupont Circle takes its name from Civil War admiral Samuel Francis du Pont, whose statue anchored the traffic circle until 1884. The neighborhood has been one of Washington’s most fashionable addresses since the Gilded Age, home to grand mansions, rowhouses, and embassies that have defined its character across 150 years. These posts dig into the history behind Dupont Circle’s streets and buildings.
Ross Elementary at 1730 R St. NW is named for John W. Ross, a Harvard law graduate, Georgetown lecturer, and District Commissioner appointed by Presidents Cleveland and McKinley. Here’s the story behind the name.
Take a look at this old photo of Connecticut Avenue in 1904 and explore the people, places, and things that make up this historic image. See a larger version and add your comments below.
Take a look at this beautiful 1940s DC rowhouse. Do you know where it could be located? Could it be in Dupont or Columbia Heights?
Take a step back in time and learn the fascinating story of The Toronto, an apartment building in Dupont Circle offering rent for $45/month in 1920. Read the incredible story of its construction and collapse.
Explore the history of Blaine Mansion in Dupont Circle around 1900 and discover Pizzeria Paradiso, the go-to spot for great pizza and beer. Get all the details here!
Take a trip down memory lane with this 1981 apartment listings page from The Washington Post. Check out the prices and see if you recognize any of the addresses!
Take a look at the ornate 2101 Connecticut Ave. NW apartment building in Washington, DC. This beautiful building was advertised in The Washington Post in 1928 and still stands today.
We found a terrific old postcard of Connecticut Ave. NW and Columbia Rd. in Washington, DC. If you were look down this road today, you would see the Hilton Hotel. Explore this historic postcard!
Check out this unbelievable offer from The Evening Star newspaper in 1906: a home for sale in Washington, DC for just $13,000! That same home is now worth over $1.4 million. Read the incredible story here.
