Loughborough-Patterson House

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During its almost 200-year history, Loughborough House’s occupants have included a bank, law and insurances offices, and department stores. It has also served as a private home for over a dozen families.

Nathan Loughborough, a prominent Virginian who served as Treasury Department Chief Clerk in the early 1800s, built the houses. In 1801, he purchased the lot where Loughborough House stands for a mere $1,684 and built a fine three story brick house. Five years later the second building was completed and they became known as “Nathan Loughborough’s Houses.” In 1813, Mr. Loughborough sold both buildings and they were not to be united under one owner until 1926, when Edlows Department Store purchased both properties.

In 1957, the Honorable and Mrs. Gordon Gray purchased the property, and in 1960 gave it to the Junior League of Washington. The League extensively remodeled the interiors and restored the facade to its original Federal design, following a photograph from the 1880s. In 1998, JLW conducted another renovation to create a better space for its training sessions and meetings. Updates included an overhaul of its electrical and HVAC systems, as well as structural strengthening. The interior was also remodeled in federal style to match the facade.

Today, it remains in use by the Junior League of Washington on M Street. 

DC Inventory: November 8, 1964 (Joint Committee on Landmarks)
Within Georgetown Historic District