Old Naval Hospital, former hospital in the United States
The Old Naval Hospital is a former naval medical facility in Washington, D.C., built in Renaissance Revival style with brick and stone walls, tall windows, and decorative details. The building features high ceilings, solid construction, and preserved historic windows reflecting its 1860s origin.
President Abraham Lincoln requested Congress to build the hospital during the Civil War, and it was completed in 1866 to treat wounded sailors and soldiers. The facility operated for about 40 years before the Navy relocated to a new location in 1906, after which the building served various purposes including veterans housing and community services.
The building's name reflects its original purpose as a naval medical facility serving sailors and soldiers during wartime. Today, community groups and artists use the space for gatherings and events, showing how residents of Capitol Hill view it as a shared meeting place.
The building is located in Capitol Hill and easily accessible on foot near other historic structures, making it convenient to explore the neighborhood. Visitors should know that the interior has been updated with modern accessibility features, including geothermal heating and cooling systems for comfort.
The hospital's first patient was Benjamin Drummond, an African American seaman with a gunshot wound in his leg from an earlier battle, who later received a government pension. This early history demonstrates how the building played an important role in caring for and recognizing wounded service members from its opening.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
