This historic neighborhood enjoys a wonderful mix of residential and professional consumers. Big plans abound for redevelopment as the $4 billion Anacostia Waterfront Initiative kicks into high gear.  The core of what is now the Anacostia historic district was incorporated in 1854 as Uniontown and was one of the first suburbs in the District of Columbia. It was designed to be financially available to Washington’s working class, many of whom were employed across the river at the Navy Yard; its (then) location outside of and isolated from the city made its real estate inexpensive.

Anacostia’s historically designated commercial corridors have already experienced new development and investment, such as the DC Department of Housing & Community Development and the Salvation Army’s new community center which opened in 2009.  And now the largest project currently in motion is the redevelopment of the former Saint Elizabeth’s campus, the new home for Homeland Security — bringing approximately 14,000 employees to the area by 2014!

From a cultural standpoint, residents can come and enjoy the Honfleur Art Gallery, American Poetry Museum and the African Heritage Dancers & Drummers studio combined to create a distinctive arts hub.  But the historic Holy Grail of Anacostia is the Frederick Douglas House, which sits atop of a beautifully manicured hilltop.
Visitors may tour this majestic historical residence of our country’s most recognized abolitionists any day of the week. Tours are ticketed, and visitors are strongly encouraged to make a reservation to guarantee their place.

So when you hear of Anacostia, DC, think- culture, affordability, and historical richness.

Posted on Monday, February 6th, 2012 at 12:30 pm. Follow responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.