DK Travel : Washington, D.C. : History & Culture

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Private Clubs

Lobbyists regularly frequent private clubs in the downtown area, such as the National Democratic Club and Army and Navy Club, as well as country clubs such as the Congressional Country Club, where a little discreet politicking is accepted and expected.
Protection of the Accused

Accused persons will be given a trial by a jury of peers, be informed of the charges, be able to confront witnesses, and be represented by counsel.
Quartering of Soldiers

Freedom from housing soldiers in private homes in peacetime and in war, except as prescribed by law.
Ralph Bunche

The first African-American to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, because of his diplomatic efforts in the UN.
Renwick Gallery

This Smithsonian museum is a gem, with its displays of fine craft works. The second-floor Grand Salon served as a ballroom and site for special events when the Corcoran Gallery was located here before 1897. The room has been completely refurbished and a modern lighting system installed. The 1859 structure, named after its architect, James Renwick, Jr, is a marvelous Second Empire-style building.
Sam T. Rayburn

Rayburn (1882–1961) witnessed the administrations of eight presidents.
Sarah Polk

The wife of James K. Polk (1845–9) was a strong force in the administration, writing speeches for the president.
Sewall-Belmont House

The 1800 construction date makes this enchanting home one of the oldest on Capitol Hill, and a National Historic Landmark. It is now a museum of women’s emancipation.
Sewell-Belmont House

Built in 1750 and expanded into its current mansion size in 1800, this house is one of the most historic in Washington. It is thought that one past resident, Albert Gallatin, Treasury Secretary for Jefferson and Monroe, may have worked out the financial details of the Louisiana Purchase – which nearly doubled the size of the United States – here. The house was the only private residence burned during the War of 1812 because only from here did Americans fire on the invading British (see War of 1812). The completely rebuilt home was bought by the National Women’s Party in 1929 and remains their home today. Visitors can see the elaborate but homey period furnishings of the house’s past, as well as the museum’s fascinating collection of objects and documents fundamental to the suffragist and feminist movements in the United States, and the oldest feminist library in the US.

Hallway, Sewall-Belmont House
State Powers

All powers not granted to the US government belong to the states.