Quality Hill
Known as the residence of many prominent Washingtonians, Quality Hill remains emblematic of late 18th century architecture.
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Originally constructed around 1797, the Quality Hill home was built with Flemish bond brick, then painted grey. The freestanding, rectangular home has a gabled slate roof, two chimneys, paneled doors, and a fanlight over the entryway that evokes late 18th century Georgian architecture.
John Thomson Mason, nephew of George Mason, was a Washington socialite and slaveholder who lived in the home from 1800 to 1807. It is unclear if he held enslaved persons in bondage in the home. The home passed hands to the wealthy Teakle family in 1808 and, subsequently, Dr. Charles Worthington in 1810. It appears that Worthington was the first owner to refer to the home as “Quality Hill,” and he resided in the house for more than a quarter of a century. A well-known community doctor and active Federalist during the War of 1812, he nursed British soldiers back to health at the home.
Other prominent individuals recorded as owning or using the home, include James Kearney, Albert Adsin Clemmons, and Senator Claiborne Pell.
The home remains a private residence and is part of the Georgetown Historic District.
DC Inventory: November 8, 1964 (Joint Committee on Landmarks)
National Register: March 16, 1972
This site is included in the Capital City Slavery Tour for John Thomson Mason and Dr. Charles Worthington's roles as slaveholders while owning the home. For further information on slaveholders in Washington, D.C. explore DCPL's Capital City Slavery Digital Exhibit.
