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

National Union Building

A restored 1890 Romanesque Revival landmark in Chinatown/Penn Quarter, this former insurance headquarters now serves as a seven-story event venue featuring original brickwork and DC's oldest working elevator.

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National Union Building
www.nationalunionbuildingdc.com, og_image_www.nationalunionbuildingdc.com

What is the National Union Building known for?

It is a restored Romanesque Revival landmark built in 1890 that serves as a seven-floor event venue. It was originally constructed as the headquarters for the National Union Fire Insurance Company and is part of the Pennsylvania Avenue Historic Site.

Where is it located?

The building is located at 918 F St NW in the Chinatown/Penn Quarter area of Washington, D.C. It is situated across from Ford's Theatre and is within walking distance of the Gallery Place–Chinatown and Metro Center stations.

What are the hours?

The building is listed as being open 24 hours every day.

What is the capacity for events?

The venue offers between 27,000 and 28,000 square feet of space across 11 private event rooms. Its largest capacities include 1,150 for receptions, 250 for banquets, 180 for theatre, and 120 for classroom setups.

Is the building accessible?

Yes, the venue is ADA compliant and features an entry ramp as well as DC's oldest working elevator.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

The National Union Building is a meticulously restored Romanesque Revival structure located at 918 F St NW in the heart of Washington, D.C.'s Chinatown/Penn Quarter. Constructed in 1890, the building originally served as the headquarters for the National Union Fire Insurance Company. Today, it is recognized as part of the Pennsylvania Avenue Historic Site, preserving a piece of the city's old central core. Architecturally, the landmark is defined by its heavy masonry and period details. Visitors will find arched windows, original brick walls, and cathedral-like molded ceilings throughout the interior. The venue spans seven distinct stories, offering approximately 27,000 to 28,000 square feet of flexible space. This layout includes 11 private event rooms, one of which is a hidden speakeasy designed for intimate gatherings. Beyond its aesthetic charm, the building holds a unique place in the city's mechanical history, housing DC's oldest working elevator. While it has evolved into a versatile event space capable of hosting receptions for up to 1,150 guests, it has also hosted modern ventures, such as serving as LivingSocial's 'experience' building between 2013 and 2014. The building's location provides a haunting connection to American history. Situated directly across from Ford's Theatre, the National Union Building overlooks the specific alley that John Wilkes Booth used during his escape following the assassination of Abraham Lincoln.

Visitor tips

  • Look up at the arched windows and brickwork to appreciate the Romanesque Revival style from the sidewalk.
  • Visit the exterior to see the alleyway connected to the John Wilkes Booth escape route.
  • If you are attending an event inside, be sure to ride DC's oldest working elevator.

Nearby context

Located in the lively Chinatown/Penn Quarter neighborhood, the building is positioned just steps from Gallery Place and Metro Center. Its most significant neighbor is Ford's Theatre, which sits directly across the street, linking the two sites through the shared history of the adjacent escape alley.

Sources

Evidence and links