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

Latrobe Gate

A Greek Revival masterpiece and the oldest continuously manned Marine sentry post in the nation, this historic gate survived the British burning of the Washington Navy Yard in 1814.

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Latrobe Gate
www.history.navy.mil, website_hero_img_www.history.navy.mil

What is Latrobe Gate known for?

Latrobe Gate is recognized as the oldest continuously manned Marine sentry post in the United States. It is also notable for being one of only three structures at the Washington Navy Yard to survive the British burning of the yard in 1814.

Can I visit Latrobe Gate?

No, the gate is restricted and not generally open to the public; access is limited to residents of flag officer quarters and their authorized guests. Visitors to the Washington Navy Yard should instead use the main entrance at 11th Street and O Street.

Where is it located?

Latrobe Gate is located at the juncture of Eighth Street and M Street in the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C.

What is the history of the gate's architecture?

Designed by Benjamin H. Latrobe at the request of President Thomas Jefferson and completed in 1806, the gate is a Greek Revival, Flemish-bond brick structure. Its north side resembles a miniature triumphal arch with Doric columns, and it was expanded with an additional story in 1823 and further modifications in 1881.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

Latrobe Gate stands as a resilient sentinel at the juncture of Eighth Street and M Street in the Washington Navy Yard. In 1804, President Thomas Jefferson selected Benjamin H. Latrobe, a premier early American architect, to design and build the main gate. Completed in 1806 after two years of construction, the structure is a prime example of Greek Revival architecture and is built using Flemish-bond brick. The gate is most famous for its survival during the War of 1812. In 1814, as British forces invaded Washington, Captain Tingey was ordered to burn the navy yard to prevent its capture. Latrobe Gate was one of only three structures to escape the subsequent fires. Its architectural profile evolved over the following decades, receiving an additional story in 1823 to provide more space for Marine officers and further expansions in 1881, including three-story flanking tower buildings. Over the centuries, the gate has served as a point of entry for global leaders, including King George VI and Queen Elizabeth during their 1939 visit to Washington. Its historical significance was formally recognized in 1973 when it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The District's Joint Committee on Landmarks also designated it as a Category II Landmark due to its contribution to the visual beauty of the city. Today, the gate remains a functional military site, holding the distinction of being the oldest continuously manned Marine sentry post in the United States. While it serves as a ceremonial historic entrance, it is restricted to the residents of flag officer quarters and their authorized guests.

Visitor tips

  • View the north side of the gate to see the miniature triumphal arch and Doric columns.
  • Do not attempt to enter here; use the main visitor entrance at 11th Street and O Street for Navy Yard access.
  • Arrive during daylight hours to best appreciate the Flemish-bond brickwork and Greek Revival details.

Nearby context

Located at the corner of Eighth and M Streets, Latrobe Gate serves as a historic anchor for the Washington Navy Yard, contrasting the modern naval installations with early 19th-century architectural heritage.

Sources

Evidence and links