Spending time in Washington, DC will surely pique your interest in all things American history. It's impossible not to get interested in history when it's all around you! When you're in the mood to learn more about the American Revolution, you'll want to make a visit to Anderson House in Washington DC. This historic home is the headquarters of the Society of the Cincinnati, a hereditary organization dedicated to keeping alive the memory of the achievement of American independence. Anderson House hosts an incredible collection of artifacts from the revolutionary period, and admission is free, so stop in and take a look!
Hereditary History
The Society of the Cincinnati is a bit unusual in the United States, in that membership is exclusive to descendants of the original founders. The Society was founded in May of 1783 by officers of the Continental Army who were encamped at Newburgh, New York. Taking their name from the ancient Roman hero Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus, a paragon of civic virtue, the Society of Cincinnati dedicated themselves to perpetuating the memory of the War for Independence and decided to ensure the longevity of their organization by making membership hereditary.
The Society at Anderson House
In 1938, the Society decided to increase their influence and outreach by opening an international headquarters that would be accessible to the public. The place they chose was the home of one of its members, the American diplomat Larz Anderson. Completed in 1905, this stunning Florentine villa is a standout of the DuPont Circle/Embassy Row neighborhood. Its unique blend of English and Italian interior design, coupled with ornate turn-of-the-century detail, makes for a fascinating visit for architecture buffs.
Revolutionary Artifacts
The museum's collections aim to tell the story of the Revolutionary War through the personal possessions of those who lived through it, alongside paintings and sculptures which depict the people and events of the war. Visitors get a window into the life of an 18th century soldier, exploring not only the various weapons they carried, but also a range of ordinary objects owned by people of the time, including watches, coins, and jewelry, which serve as a reminder of the civilian lives these brave soldiers sacrificed to join the Revolution.
For those doing more in-depth research, the Society's library collection includes an array of manuscripts which provide all manner of excellent first-hand accounts of the War for Independence. The museum also holds a collection devoted to artifacts of the Society itself, as well as its archives. Anderson House is still decorated with the personal decorative arts collection of Larz and Isabel Anderson, which includes works from all across Europe and Asia.
Anderson House in Washington DC is a fascinating tour of history, nestled right in the middle of the city. Come explore; you never know what you might discover! You can find the mansion at 2118 Massachusetts Ave NW on Embassy Row. For more info on attractions in the area or to book your stay in Washington, DC, contact LUXbnb today!