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Washington DC Real Estate Resource Center: Historic Capitol Hill

Washington D.C. is one of the world's most important places. When it comes to politics, all eyes are focused on Washington. Serving as home to some of the world's most power and affluent individuals, the nation's capitol is filled with a variety of historic neighborhoods. One of the largest historic residential neighborhoods is none other then Capitol Hill.

The neighborhood emerged shortly after the location of the U.S. Capitol was chosen in 1791. Located on what was previously farmland owned by the descendents of Rozier-Youn-Carroll family, this particular tract of land was chosen for its "sharp rise". Pierre Charles L'Enfant, the architect of the Capitol, called the plot of land "a pedestal awaiting a monument".

In it's early years, the neighborhood of Capitol Hill was primarily a boarding house community for members of Congress. The Capitol Hill neighborhood began to take off when the government of the United States commissioned the construction of the Washington Navy Yard and the U.S. Capitol building in 1799. Many workers moved to Capitol Hill so they could walk to work. Between 1799 and 1810, the Federal Government became a major employer in the district subsequently effecting the development of the Capitol Hill neighborhood. Located between the Capitol, White House and former Navy Yard, President Thomas Jefferson strategically chose the Capitol Hill neighborhood to house the Marine Barracks. By 1810, there were a plethora of blacksmiths, goldsmiths, and churches throughout the area.

The neighborhood saw its largest expansion during the Civil War. Washington D.C. served as the headquarters for the Union Army. Military hospitals were constructed throughout Capitol Hill. Construction for homes to house members of government continued throughout the 1870's and 1880's.

East Capitol Street divides the Hill into 2 sections, North East and South East. Capitol Hill proper is really a small section of the entire Capitol Hill area. The larger area around Capitol Hill is also called Old City #1

In 1976, Capitol Hill received its historic designation.