Tayloe House

The Tayloe House is a Federal-style building at 21 Madison Place NW with cream-colored brick walls rising three stories and facing the White House. It now functions as part of the National Courts Building complex while maintaining its original architectural character.

Construction was completed in 1828, and the building later hosted Vice President Garret Hobart as a temporary residence from 1897 to 1899. This period gave rise to its nickname, the 'Cream White House'.

The building served as headquarters for the Congressional Union for Woman Suffrage starting in 1915, making it a center for women's rights activists. Visitors walking through can sense the space where this political movement was organized and led.

The building sits on Lafayette Square close to the White House and is now part of a larger complex used for official purposes. Access may be limited since the space remains in active government use.

First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy stepped in during 1960 to prevent demolition of this building, which led to a new architectural vision for Lafayette Square. Her action saved not just the structure but also sparked broader protection efforts for other historic buildings in the area.

GPS coordinates: 37.27249,-76.69875

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:04