Larz Anderson House (Society of the Cincinnati) - View this location on map  Originally commissioned for lavish entertaining, this limestone edifice from 1902-05 was one of the largest and costliest private homes in the city. It was built for diplomat Larz Anderson and his wife Isabel Weld Perkins Anderson, an author, philanthropist, and heiress to a trading fortune. It was also the temporary residence of many visiting dignitaries. Anderson was descended from a founder of the Society of the Cincinnati, established in 1783 as an association of the descendents of Revolutionary War officers. In 1937, he donated the property to the society for use as a museum and national headquarters. The mansion is among the finest works of Boston architects Little and Browne. Its monumental design in the style of the late English Baroque is particularly notable for the imposing avenue façade. A semicircular entry portico rises within a paved court enclosed by tall wings and a half-height street wall; views over the wall and through a pair of arched porticos provide glimpses of the private enclave within. By contrast, the south-facing garden front is generously open. Notable among the lavish interiors are a great stair hall and gallery. 2118 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington , DC Historical |