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Foggy Bottom |
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What You'll See!Nestled between Lafayette Square and Georgetown, and just south of Dupont Circle lies alluring Foggy Bottom. Abuzz with the to-and-fro of George Washington University students and celebrated for its pathways into Rock Creek Park, this neighborhood is also known for its world-class performing arts venues and political landmarks.
The Story of the Fog
The name "Foggy Bottom" arose from the area’s location next to the river and its marshy banks, which made the area prone to fog at various times of the year. In addition, in the 19th century, the Potomac waterfront supported a number of industries that emitted smoke.
Air circulation in the old, original Washington City was not great. The old city boundary was defined by the escarpment, or steep hills, that once were the Potomac’s ancient shoreline. The steep hills tended to trap air in the low-lying downtown areas. Washingtonians still experience this phenomenon on hot summer days and nights today.
Then and Now
This historic riverfront community is one of the city's oldest 19th-century neighborhoods. Often referred to as the West End, Foggy Bottom was once a community of Irish, German, and African American neighbors employed at the nearby breweries, glass plants, and the city gas works.
Today you can still find a few intimate enclaves of historic houses and sacred places such as St. Mary's Episcopal Church and the Concordia German Evangelical Church. These historic structures cluster in the middle of a neighborhood now better known for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the massive Watergate apartments and hotel, and The George Washington University, home to Lisner Auditorium.
Public Art
In addition to Foggy Bottom's historic and cultural attractions, your neighborhood tour takes you past some exceptional sculptural figures. For starters, a smiling Albert Einstein greets you outside the National Academy of Sciences, extending a welcome to curious visitors and climbing children. See significant sculptures listed below.
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