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Making DC

How abundant natural resources, temperate climate, and the port of Georgetown helped create our nation's capital.

Photo by dumbartonhouse.org
Lemoine Map Sampler based on L’Enfant’s plan as revised by Andrew Ellicott for the city of Washington.
Lemoine Map Sampler based on L’Enfant’s plan as revised by Andrew Ellicott for the city of Washington.

On the second floor of Dumbarton House, “Making DC” tells the story of the (third) capital of the United States.

In 1790, a swampy spot near the Potomac River was chosen to be the new United States capital. However, it was made into a city by the politicians, families, and workers – free and enslaved – who moved here and re-established their lives. As the new nation struggled for recognition on the global stage and the federal government sought to define its role, the capital city grew as well.

Prospect of Georgetown from the Tenleytown Road Rebecca Nourse, 1820
Prospect of Georgetown from the Tenleytown Road, Rebecca Nourse, 1820

This location was chosen as the Capital because of its abundant natural resources, temperate climate, and the port of Georgetown. The port supported the creation of the new “Washington City” with its businesses and goods. After moving from city to city along the eastern seaboard, the Capital finally found its home. Uncertain of its permanence, the city gradually grew.

Dumbarton House is located at 2715 Q Street in Georgetown.

Georgetown