Evermay (Samuel Davidson House)
This old Georgetown mansion has long been a part of DC's prominent high society.
Text
Constructed between 1801 and 1804 and designed by architect Nicholas King, The Evermay is a Federal-style mansion built by Samuel Davidson, a real estate speculator and owner. Evermay, from its spacious grounds in Georgetown, commands an impressive view of Rock Creek Park and downtown Washington. Although the house and gardens have undergone numerous alterations, the main block of the house is representative of Federal domestic architecture of the early 19th century.
The construction of Evermay began in 1801, and the house underwent interior alterations until 1818. Evermay lost its Federal character in 1877 when it was remodeled in the fashionable Victorian style of the day. It was stripped of its Victorian accretions and restored to its Federal simplicity in the 20th century when the Honorable F. Lammot Belin bought it in 1923.
The restorations and additions between 1923 and 1961 have in no way detracted from the original but have added to its dignity and beauty. The history of the house is very closely linked with people and events important in the development of Washington.
DC Inventory: November 8, 1964 (Joint Committee on Landmarks)
National Register: April 3, 1973
Within Georgetown Historic District
