In the heart of Capitol Hill, one of Washington D.C.'s oldest residential neighborhoods, a unique property has emerged on the market, challenging the area's reputation for compact rowhouses. This Colonial Revival home, listed at $3.25 million, boasts a hidden gem: one of the largest and oldest residential pools in the neighborhood.
The property at 222 11th Street NE stands out not only for its size but also for its rich history. While the exact construction date remains uncertain, parts of the structure are believed to predate the American Civil War, which occurred over 163 years ago. The house's documented history begins with the 1880 Census, which recorded Oliver Watson Longan, a Civil War veteran, as the owner. Longan later became chief of the military prisons division in the War Department, a predecessor to today's Department of Defense.
Over the decades, the L-shaped house on a double lot underwent several expansions. A significant transformation occurred in the 1980s when it was merged with a neighboring carriage house. This renovation also saw the addition of the pool, a feature that has since become central to the property's appeal.
Among the notable residents was James K. Glassman, a prominent journalist and former undersecretary of state for public diplomacy and public affairs from 2008 to 2009. Glassman also served as the founding executive director of the George W. Bush Institute and authored the controversial book "Dow 36,000" in 1999. Interestingly, the Dow Jones Industrial Average didn't reach this milestone until November 2021, over two decades after the book's publication.
The current owners, Gai and Donald Elliot, acquired the property in 2003. As academics with extensive book collections, they were drawn to the house's ample storage and shelving. "This is the only house we've ever had that had enough bookshelves for us," Donald remarked.
The Elliots have utilized the spacious property for various functions, including law firm events, political fundraisers, and even a congressional campaign announcement. The 16-by-38-foot pool, lined with travertine marble and adorned with fountains, has been the centerpiece of many gatherings. In a gesture of community spirit, the Elliots opened the pool to neighbors for annual July Fourth celebrations, even when they were away.
"Everybody who walks in looks around and can't believe that this is behind that wall, that this beautiful place is just suddenly there."
The house features numerous amenities, including multiple fireplaces, a library with built-in shelving, and a kitchen with a floral mosaic-tiled stovetop exhaust fan. The primary bedroom suite boasts a private deck and a bathroom with heated mosaic tile floors. The property also includes one of Capitol Hill's largest lots, complete with gardens, a covered brick terrace, and parking for three cars.
As the Elliots prepare to part with their beloved home, they reflect on the half-million dollars they invested in renovations. "It's been a hard place to leave," Gai admitted, encapsulating the unique charm and historical significance of this Capitol Hill treasure.