Did you know President Abraham Lincoln once attended a wedding right here? This redbrick mansion before you is the Dacor Bacon House Museum. It stands at the corner of 18th and F Street Northwest in Washington D.C.
The Dacor Bacon House is more than just a building. It is a living testament to America’s diplomatic heritage. It is also a museum that honors the nation’s diplomatic history. Inside, you will find art and artifacts from around the world.
Completed in 1825 the Dacor Bacon House has a rich history. Influential social and political figures called this place home. Eight presidents have visited or stayed here. These include James Monroe and Abraham Lincoln. Two Chief Justices, John Marshall and Melville Fuller, also lived here.
The Dacor Bacon House’s story began with U.S. Marshal Tench Ringgold. He built the house in 1824-1825. Ringgold hosted Supreme Court members here. This happened during two of the court’s terms in the winters of 1832 and 1833. Among the justices was Chief Justice John Marshall.
In 1835, Governor Samuel Sprigg of Maryland bought the house. He gave it to his daughter Sally Sprigg. She married William Thomas Carroll. He was the Clerk of the Supreme Court. The Carrolls were close friends with President and Mrs. Lincoln. They played a prominent role in Washington society for nearly 50 years.
Later, Mary Ellen Fuller purchased the house in 1896. She was the wife of Chief Justice Melville Fuller. She lived here for 14 years. She entertained the justices on Saturdays. They discussed future cases.
Congressman Robert Low Bacon and his wife Virginia bought the house in 1925. Virginia Bacon was a fierce advocate for U.S. leadership. She supported the principle of multilateralism. This was embodied in the United Nations.
Virginia Murray Bacon was the last private owner of the Dacor Bacon House. She bequeathed it to the Bacon House Foundation. She wanted to protect the house forever. She directed that it be used as a meeting place. This was to promote international peace and understanding. Leaders in foreign policy and international relations could gather here. They would define and resolve international problems.
Today the Dacor Bacon House continues to serve as a center for international dialogue. DACOR operates the house. It hosts many events every week. These include discussions lectures and receptions. Musical performances and other cultural events also take place here.
The exterior of the Dacor Bacon House is protected. The National Trust for Historic Preservation ensures its architectural integrity. The Dacor Bacon House stands as a reminder of the past. It is a place where history diplomacy and dialogue come together.