Exhibits at Dumbarton
Take a step back in time to learn about life in colonial era Washington, D.C. There’s always something new to learn at Dumbarton House!
Past Exhibits
The American Red Cross at Dumbarton House, 1942-1945
Historic Dumbarton House and the American Red Cross share a unique history of partnership. Dumbarton House became a Red Cross facility during World War II …
Past Exhibits
“Fran, Have you Supplied the Table?” Foods, Service, and Etiquette in the Federal Era
The Federal era in the United States (c.1790 to 1820) witnessed many high society gatherings and much genteel merry-making, all of which involved food and …
Past Exhibits
Music of the Federal Period
Americans in the federal era loved playing and listening to music as much as we do today. They marched, snag, and danced with gusto, expressing …
Past Exhibits
From House to Home: Reinterpreting Dumbarton House
How do the museum staff in a historic house museum determine what the house looked like when its early occupants made it their home? Which room was …
Past Exhibits
Homefront 1812: Friends, Family & Foe
2014 marked the 200th anniversary of the capture and burning of the City of Washington during the War of 1812. Dumbarton House played an important role …
Past Exhibits
Preparing for the Ball: Costume of the Early Nation
As the United States of America forged its own national identity, festive balls were held to express the population’s optimism and confidence. The ball, a party with music and dancing, gained …
