Who We Are
Founded in 1894, the DC History Center deepens understanding of our city’s past to connect, empower, and inspire. As the only community-based nonprofit focused on the District’s history, our vision is to reach into all eight wards to preserve and elevate the stories of Washington’s diverse people, neighborhoods, and institutions. We will do this work as a welcoming and inclusive community that fosters curiosity and nurtures civic engagement to strengthen our city for all.
What We Do
EXHIBITS
Our three current exhibits introduce basic DC history and our research collections, explore the history of the Carnegie Library building, and offer time travel back to DC’s 20th century via panoramic photography.
PROGRAMS
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, our programs are now virtual. Scholars and commentators take to Zoom to offer historical context for today’s issues. Authors present their latest discoveries and perspectives in DC history.
Once in-person gatherings can safely resume, the DC History Center will restart our signature hands-on workshops. Explorers of all ages and stages will come away with enhanced research skills and learning. Programs and tours will be ready for the public at that time as well.
RESEARCH
The online resources of the Kiplinger Research Library are accessible for remote users. Library staff are also responding to remote research queries and filling orders for photographs and photocopies.
Learn more about the only periodical devoted to scholarly research on DC, written for the general public and published as a benefit of membership in the DC History Center.