Smith-Bruce House: This Federal style house was occupied by one of the most active US Ambassadors following World War II, David K.E. Bruce, and his wife Evangeline.

The Smith-Bruce House in Georgetown was built in 1810 and designed by Clement and Walter Smith. The Smiths were DC architects and are best known for their row of six Federal style townhouses on N Street NW referred to as Smith Row. The Smith-Bruce House was designed in the Federal style that was popular during the late-18th and early-19th centuries in the United States. The house has Federal style features, including multiple chimneys, a fanlight over the front door, and a hipped roof. The house is also known for its extensive gardens that were added in 1955 and designed by Rose Greely. Greely was an American landscape architect who opened many doors for other female architects in DC. The gardens feature a stone terrace, sunken lawn, and fountains.

The house's most notable residents were Ambassador David K. E. Bruce and his wife Evangeline, who occupied the house following World War II. Ambassador Bruce represented the United States in several nations and served under every president from Harry Truman to Gerald Ford. His most notable positions were Ambassador to France from 1949 to 1952, Ambassador to Germany from 1957 to 1959, Ambassador to the United Kingdom from 1961 to 1969, Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China from 1973 to 1974, and Ambassador to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) from 1974 to 1976. Evangeline Bruce was a Georgetown socialite known for her impeccable fashion and extravagant parties held at the Smith-Bruce House.

DC Inventory: November 8, 1964 (Joint Committee on Landmarks)

Within Georgetown Historic District