 
Tudor Place
NPS Photo
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Designed by Dr. William Thornton, who also designed the U.S. Capitol as well as the Octagon
House
, Tudor Place was the home of Thomas and Martha Custis Peter. Martha Custis Peter was
the granddaughter of George Washington, who left her the $8,000 in his will that was used to
purchase the property in 1805. The property, comprised of one city block on the crest of
Georgetown Heights, had an excellent view of the Potomac River.
A previous owner of the property had begun improvments by building what are now the house's
wings. Thornton then provided the central structure and the joining elements to the wings,
combining them with buff-colored stucco over brick. The "temple" porch and supporting
columns provide a most striking addition to the front. The gardens and the historic house
museum's collections are as rich and interesting as the home itself. A focal point is the collection
of over 100 objects that belonged to George and Martha Washington. Over the years, both the
home and gardens have been enriched by 180 years of Peter family ownership. Tudor Place gives
a rare glimpse into American cultural and social history.
Tudor Place is located at 1644 31st St., NW. House tours are
approximately one hour in length. Tuesday through Friday tours are available at 10:00 am,
11:30 am, 1:00 pm, and 2:30 pm. On Saturday tours are available at 10:00 am, 11:00 am,
12:00 pm, 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, and 3:00 pm. Donations are requested and vary according to age.
Garden Tours are self-guided. The garden is open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through
Saturday. For more information, please call 202-965-0400.
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