Explore the Anderson House: A Historic Gem in Washington D.C.
2118 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008-3640, USA
Phone +1 202-785-2040
Go back in time at the Anderson House—back to 1905, when this home was one of Washington, D.C.’s most fashionable mansions. The grand mansion that once welcomed presidents such as William H. Taft and Calvin Coolidge now serves as a museum accessible to the public. Visitors can admire the home’s lavish furnishings alongside exhibits showcasing artifacts from the Revolutionary War and the Society of the Cincinnati, which is now headquartered in the Anderson House.
The History of Anderson House
American diplomat Larz Anderson and his wife Isabel entertained guests for over 30 years in this striking, circa-1905 D.C. mansion designed as their winter residence. No expense was spared in the construction of the $750,000 home, which included luxurious features such as a tennis court, electricity, telephones, central heating, and elevators. According to the Anderson House’s website, the home boasts exquisite details like marble floors and gilded papier-mâché ceilings.
The Andersons were known for hosting various prestigious events, including concerts, formal dinners, and diplomatic receptions for distinguished D.C. personalities such as Henry A. du Pont and members of the Vanderbilt family.
Following Larz Anderson’s death in 1937, Isabel donated the Anderson House to the Society of Cincinnati, an organization dedicated to the patriots of the American Revolution, a cause close to Larz. Since 1939, the public has been able to visit this museum, which is recognized as a National Historic Landmark.
What To See and Do There
The museum features 4,000 items in its collection, including works of art that narrate the story of the Revolutionary War, alongside swords and firearms from that period. Additionally, guests can explore the Andersons’ art collection, which contains Flemish tapestries, ceramics, textiles, and artworks hailing from Japan, China, India, and Nepal. Visitors can also enjoy the mansion’s picturesque walled garden and experience its elegant two-story ballroom and French drawing room.
Annual Events
The Anderson House hosts various special events throughout the year, including lectures and signings. Moreover, it participates in the annual Dupont Kalorama Museums Consortium museum walk weekend in early June, where multiple museums in the Dupont Circle neighborhood provide free activities to visitors, featuring live music, food, exhibits, and more. The Anderson House also organizes concerts year-round; be sure to check the calendar for all public events.
Things to Do Nearby
When exploring the surrounding area, consider visiting priceless artworks at The Phillips Collection, which is just a short three-minute walk away. Another historical mansion worth visiting is the Woodrow Wilson House. For a glimpse into global culture, you can walk down Embassy Row along Massachusetts Avenue from Dupont Circle toward the National Cathedral to admire the stately embassies.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Anderson House is situated in Washington, D.C.’s Dupont Circle neighborhood at 2118 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20008. The closest metro stop is the Dupont Circle station on the Red Line, utilizing the Q Street/North exit.
Hours: The museum at Anderson House operates from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: There is no fee to enter the museum; admission is free.
