The Octagon House

The Octagon House is a three-story brick residence in Foggy Bottom, Washington, D.C., that serves as an example of Federal-style design. William Thornton designed the building in 1799 with an unusual floor plan that groups circular and rectangular rooms around a central hall.

After British forces burned the White House in 1814, President James Madison and his wife Dolley temporarily lived in this residence. On February 17, 1815, Madison signed the Treaty of Ghent here, ending the War of 1812.

The building's name comes from its six-sided floor plan, which forms a hexagon rather than a true octagon. Visitors see polished woodwork, curved staircases, and tall-ceilinged rooms that show how wealthy families lived and entertained guests in the early 19th century.

The museum sits on New York Avenue Northwest near the Foggy Bottom neighborhood and offers guided tours through the historical rooms. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as the residence includes multiple floors with steep staircases.

The circular study room on the second floor was where the president signed the peace treaty. This room remains furnished as it was then and displays the desk and furniture from that period.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1799

Architects: William Thornton

Architectural style: Federal architecture

Floors above the ground: 3

Made from material: brick

Address: 1799 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20006

GPS coordinates: 38.89630,-77.04150

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:26