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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Museums

Dumbarton House

A Federal-period historic house museum in Georgetown, built in 1799, featuring 18th- and 19th-century artifacts and an acre of gardens.

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Dumbarton House
www.dumbartonhouse.org, website_hero_img_www.dumbartonhouse.org

What is Dumbarton House known for?

Dumbarton House is a Federal-period historic house museum in Georgetown that promotes historic preservation and early American history. It features artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries and is situated on approximately an acre of gardens.

What are the hours?

Dumbarton House is currently closed for the foreseeable future due to an HVAC overhaul.

Is it ADA accessible?

Yes, Dumbarton House is fully ADA accessible. Accessible parking is available in the lot off 27th Street, just north of Q Street.

What is the history of the house?

Built in 1799, the house was formerly known as Bellevue and was first owned by Joseph Nourse. It was once home to Charles Carroll, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, who reportedly sheltered Dolley Madison there in 1814. The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America acquired the property in 1928 and opened it as a museum in 1932.

Can I book an event there?

Yes, Dumbarton House accepts inquiries and bookings for weddings and other events, with current availability for 2027.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Dumbarton House is a Federal-period historic house museum located on the northern edge of Georgetown. Built in 1799, the residence was one of the first grand residences in the neighborhood. The site currently stands on approximately an acre of gardens, providing a serene escape from the urban environment. The house was formerly known as Bellevue and was first owned by Joseph Nourse, a senior official at the Treasury. It later became the home of Charles Carroll, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. In 1814, Carroll reportedly sheltered Dolley Madison as she fled from the burning White House and invading British troops. In 1928, the National Society of The Colonial Dames of America acquired the house to serve as its headquarters. The museum opened its principal floors to the public in 1932, coinciding with the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. Today, the museum's mission is to promote historic preservation and early American history through the display of 18th- and 19th-century artifacts. The property is fully ADA accessible, ensuring all visitors can experience the early American history of the nation's capital. The site also serves as an event space for weddings and other cultural gatherings, continuing its legacy as a grand residence.

Visitor tips

  • Check official website for reopening date as the house is currently closed for an HVAC overhaul.
  • Use the accessible parking lot located off 27th Street, just north of Q Street.
  • Allow at least an hour to explore the gardens and the museum's artifacts if visiting during open hours.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the acre of gardens.

Nearby context

Located on the northern edge of Georgetown, Dumbarton House is a preserved piece of early American history, distinct from its neighbor, Dumbarton Oaks.

Sources

Evidence and links