Old North

Old North is a Georgian brick building at Georgetown University that rises five stories with symmetrical facades dating from the late 1790s. It displays typical academic architecture of that era with regularly spaced windows and classical proportioning throughout its design.

The building was constructed in 1797 and stands as the oldest surviving structure on the Georgetown University campus. It served as the university's principal building until Healy Hall was completed in the later 19th century.

The southern steps served early members of the university as a natural gathering place and vantage point overlooking the campus grounds. The steps continue to reflect how these spaces were woven into the daily rhythm of university life.

The building is easy to identify from the outside and sits in a central area of campus. The southern steps are freely accessible and offer a good vantage point to observe the surrounding grounds and architectural features.

During the Civil War in 1861, the building remained the only structure on campus exempt from military occupation. This made it a safe haven where student belongings and university property could be stored.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1797

Architects: Leonard Harbaugh

Architectural style: Georgian architecture

Floors above the ground: 5

Made from material: brick

GPS coordinates: 38.90756,-77.07325

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:01