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East of the River |
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| Credit: Bill Lebovich |
East of the Anacostia River, DC's last area to urbanize, offers acres of open riverfront, notable Civil War history, and magnificent views. Bring your binoculars and take in the abundant wildlife - you may even see bald eagles!
The Grandest Vistas in the Nation's Capital
A spectacular vista of the city from Fort Stanton and Washington Overlook is well worth the drive across the 11th Street Bridge into Anacostia. The bridge itself claims its place in history as the escape route for Lincoln's assassin, John Wilkes Booth.
Historic Streets
You can still see 19th-century streetscapes of small frame houses with front porches and Italianate detail in the Anacostia Historic District. These were the homes of Washington Navy Yard workers who lived in what was then called Uniontown, the city's first planned suburb.
Driving down Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave, you'll come across the World's Largest Chair, a neighborhood landmark since 1959.
African American Heritage in Anacostia
Cedar Hill, the magnificently preserved home of abolitionist Frederick Douglass, stands majestically on a hilltop in historic Anacostia. The imposing Gothic Revival house, home to the celebrated orator and statesman for 18 years, provides another breathtaking view of the city.
You'll also want to see the site of renowned naturalist Solomon G. Brown's home. Brown was the first African American employed at the Smithsonian Institution.Also see the oldest black Baptist house of worship in Anacostia, Macedonia Baptist Church.
Visit the African American Heritage Trail page for more information on this notable district.
For More Information
Check out our Calendar of Events for up-to-date information on exhibits, tours, lectures, and other heritage happenings in the city.
Search for more attractions and historic sites East of the River.
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