Woodley and Its Residents

Images of America: D.C.

by Al Kilborne

In 1801, on a ridge that overlooked the incipient national capital, Philip Barton Key, uncle and mentor of Francis Scott Key, built a Federal-style house and named it Woodley. Its extraordinary vistas, together with its extensive grounds and stables, would subsequently attract a series of residents that not only included two presidents, but also some of the most eminent senators, cabinet officers, generals, and socialites of their respective eras. In a sense, the history of Woodley is a history of the nation. This volume contains 200 years of images that detail the history of the house and the men and women who lived there. In doing so, it persuasively supports the contention that, with the single exception of the White House, no house in America can boast a roster of residents comparable to that of Woodley.

Genres: Historical

128 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2008

Reviews

[Akilborne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read, but my objectivity might be questioned.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book full of long-buried stories from the lives of many famous folk who lived in this Federal style house, Woodley. A researched work done by students lead by a dedicated teacher from the Marat school on the present grounds of Woodley. Archives bring a story of an old Indian palisaded village area thru a grant to Cecil Calvert to those who formed commerce around the river port of Georgetown. Over time the high ground that future site of Woodley with its panoramic vistas became a welcoming home , the most prominent home in this countries history. Francis Scott Keyes , Dolly Madison and seasonally many presidents for its higher ground then the White House. The list goes goes on with humor to match much of the gravity. A great read.

[Maureen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned so much about the history of this house and neighborhood! Great photos