The Willard Hotel has stood on Pennsylvania Avenue just steps from the White House since the 1850s, making it one of the great gathering places in American political history. Generals, presidents, and lobbyists have all passed through its lobby. These posts explore the Willard’s long history, from its role in the Civil War to its midcentury decline and eventual restoration.
Dive into the captivating tale of Japan’s 1860 leap from centuries of isolation to forging ties with the U.S. Uncover their daring voyage, America’s samurai intrigue, and the birth of a legendary alliance.
The Willard Hotel closed without warning in 1968 and sat empty for 18 years. How a $73 million renovation saved one of Washington’s most historic buildings.
What did the Willard Hotel look like just after it was built in the early 1900s. This series of photos shows the ornate interior as it was back then.
Take a break from the negative news and take a trip down memory lane with this cool photo of Peacock Alley in the Willard Hotel. Date unknown, but estimated to be from the 1920s.
Take a look at this amazing photo of the Willard Hotel from the year 1904. See what the building looked like in that era and click to learn more
Take a step back in time and explore this amazing 1927 photo of 14th Street in Washington, DC. Get a glimpse of the Commerce Department and the Willard Hotel in the distance
The National Hotel, Brown’s Indian Queen, and the Southern Hotel once anchored Pennsylvania Avenue. By 1942 all three were gone. Here’s their story.
Get a glimpse of history with this amazing photo from 1976 of the Willard Hotel, looking northwest across 14th St
Get a glimpse of history with this old photo of the Willard Hotel in 1904. View looking up 14th St. to the right and Pennsylvania Ave. to the left. Click the image to see a much larger version and be amazed by the details.
