Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is the oldest residential community in the original city of Washington, D.C.. It began in 1805 with boarding houses and taverns near the Capitol to accommodate members of Congress. Over time, low-rise row houses, shops, and businesses filled the area, replacing farms. Eastern Market, established in 1802, has historically been the heart of the neighborhood.1

The term "Capitol Hill" can also refer to the legislative branch of the U.S. government, as it is the location of the United States Capitol building. The Capitol building has housed Congress since 1800. The neighborhood has seen significant development, including the construction of Library of Congress and Supreme Court buildings, as well as congressional office buildings. The Washington Navy Yard, established in 1799, was also a major force in the area's development.231