The Dupont Circle Historic District is a neighborhood area that extends generally in all directions from the park known as Dupont Circle. First established in the late 19th century, this affluent residential district is notable for both its fantastic statue and the classical style of the buildings that inhabit the area.
This rather attractive area features homes with architecture that has incorporated a rather strong influence of Romanesque style. These large homes line the broad, diagonal avenues that define the unique qualities of the area's design and create a very artistic sensibility that permeates the entire district.
However, for tourists, what defines the circle more than anything else is the beautiful statue that stands at its center. Originally, a statue of Samuel Francis Du Pont was built at this location in recognition of his service during the Civil War. Eventually, this statue was moved to Wilmington, Delaware, and in its place was built a rather large, white marble fountain that was sculpted by Daniel Chester French and Henry Bacon, who are both rather famous for helping to create the
Lincoln Memorial. On this fountain are three nude figures done in the style of Classical Antiquity, who are symbolic of the sea, the stars, and the force of wind.
Besides the architecture and the park, Dupont Circle is famous for having the
Phillips Collection, a museum that boasts fine art, the Textile Museum, and several places of socializing such as the Cosmos Club, an exclusive group that is notable for having founded the National Geographic Society.
