Manhattan Laundry, Historic industrial complex in Shaw neighborhood, Washington DC, United States
Manhattan Laundry is a three-building industrial complex in the Shaw neighborhood featuring Art Deco facades with geometric patterns from the 1930s. Three connected structures are linked by two enclosed bridges at Florida Avenue and now house various commercial tenants.
The complex was originally built in 1877 as a railroad car barn for the Washington and Georgetown Railroad Company. It was later converted to a printing plant before becoming a laundry in 1905 and being added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994.
This laundry served as a significant business for the Black community in Washington and demonstrated economic progress in the neighborhood. The complex represents entrepreneurship and achievement among Black business owners during the 20th century.
The complex is located in the U Street Corridor with good access via public transportation and nearby parking options. Visitors should note that the interior mainly contains commercial spaces, so interior access may be limited without prior permission.
The building housed one of the first Black-owned businesses of its kind in Washington, demonstrating economic independence during a time of great restrictions. The 1930s Art Deco renovation signaled optimism and modernization despite economic challenges of the period.
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