Dupont Circle Fountain

The Dupont Circle Fountain is a marble basin with three classical figures at the center of the traffic circle, designed by Henry Bacon and Daniel Chester French. The structure displays the refined proportions and ornamental details typical of Beaux-Arts architecture.

The fountain was completed in 1921, replacing an earlier bronze monument from 1884 dedicated to Rear Admiral Samuel Francis Du Pont. This change marked a shift in how the site commemorated naval history in the early 20th century.

The fountain reflects the Beaux-Arts movement through its classical figures created by artists who shaped other major American monuments. Visitors can still see the craftsmanship in the marble details today.

The fountain sits centrally at Dupont Circle near the Metro station of the same name and is surrounded by benches for resting. The location is easy to find and serves as a natural gathering point when exploring the neighborhood.

The marble figures were carved by the Piccirilli Brothers, the same artists who sculpted the Lincoln Memorial statue. This connection to one of America's most famous monuments reveals the level of craftsmanship visible here.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1920

Architects: Henry Bacon

Creator: Daniel Chester French

Official opening: December 20, 1921

Architectural style: Beaux-Arts, historicist architecture

Made from material: marble

Part of: Dupont Circle Historic District, Civil War Monuments in Washington, D.C., Massachusetts Avenue Historic District

GPS coordinates: 38.90964,-77.04344

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:41