Union Trust Building

Union Trust Building is a nine-story granite structure at 740 15th Street featuring bronze trim and large windows in neoclassical style. The facade uses stone columns and ornamental details that give the building a formal, dignified appearance typical of major banking institutions from that era.

Construction took place between 1906 and 1907, replacing Wormley's Hotel where significant political negotiations happened in 1877. The building marked a shift from the hotel's role toward Washington becoming a modern financial center.

This was the first major bank high-rise designed by Washington architects, showing that the city had local talent for important commercial buildings. The structure became a symbol of the city's growing financial confidence and local design capabilities.

The building sits among other historic structures downtown and is easily accessible by public transportation. The area is densely built, so parking is limited but walking is the best way to explore the neighborhood and nearby sites.

The exterior uses Mount Airy granite, a material sourced specifically from North Carolina for this project. This choice made it visually stand out from neighboring buildings and gave it a durability that remains visible today.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1906

Architects: Waddy Butler Wood

Made from material: granite

Address: 740 15th Street Northwest, Washington, District of Columbia

GPS coordinates: 38.89972,-77.03389

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:09