Encompassing an entire city block, DAR Headquarters is one of the world’s largest buildings of its kind owned and maintained exclusively by women. We invite you to explore all there is to offer at our National Headquarters.
DAR Buildings
Memorial Continental Hall |
Administration Building |
Constitution Hall |
DAR Collections
DAR Museum |
DAR Library |
Americana Collection |
Memorial Continental Hall
Memorial Continental Hall, the oldest building of the DAR complex, was designed in 1905 by prominent Washington architect Edward Pearce Casey, designer of the interior of the Library of Congress.
Upon its completion, Memorial Continental Hall was quickly recognized as one of Washington, D.C.’s most elegant buildings. The design for the building is in the classical revival style of the beaux-arts. Because of its classical detailing, the Hall fits in well with the Colonial Revival movement.
Memorial Continental Hall was designated as a Registered National Historic Landmark in 1935 for its role in world history, which includes hosting the famous Conference on the Limitation of Armaments in the wake of WWI (1921). Diplomats from all over the globe met to discuss limits on the proliferation of arms. Their work at Memorial Continental Hall remains a recognized milestone in global peace efforts towards disarmament.
Today, visitors come to view:
- Over 31 Period Rooms displaying different scenes from early American homes
- The extensive genealogical research collection of the DAR Library
This beautiful building continues to host a variety of events, including weddings, television and movie filmings and large corporate gatherings. For more information on holding events at DAR headquarters, visit Entertaining at DAR
"Memorial Continental Hall" Video:
Please view the rest of the "Memorial Continental Hall" video on YouTube.
Constitution Hall was built in 1929 and designed by John Russell Pope. The Hall is home to the exciting DAR Continental Congress, which takes place each Summer.
Since 1930, members of the DAR have come to Constitution Hall to conduct business and elect new officers during their annual convention. Over the years, Constitution Hall has hosted many popular performers and speakers.
In 1985, the Department of the Interior designated the building a National Historic Landmark due to its national recognition as a center for the performing arts.
With a seating capacity of 3,702, DAR Constitution Hall is the largest concert hall in Washington, D.C. It hosts a variety of events including concerts, speakers, films, graduations, corporate events, award ceremonies, television productions and gala dinners.
Details:
For more information on the Constitution Hall Schedule, see Constitution Hall Schedule.
For more information on event planning or reserving space in this building, see Entertaining at DAR.
Administration Building
The Administration Building, nestled between Memorial Continental Hall and Constitution Hall, houses many of the DAR’s administrative offices. Visitors are invited to visit or contact the Administration Building with inquiries regarding:
The Administration Building also contains the Americana Collection and the main Museum Gallery.
Details:
For information on event planning or reserving space in this building, see Entertaining at DAR.
DAR Museum
Founded in 1890, the DAR museum collects, preserves and exhibits objects made and used by Americans prior to the industrial revolution. Decorative arts are the primary focus of the museum, which has been accredited by the American Alliance of Museums for over 4 decades. Changing exhibitions and educational programs for all ages provide a variety of opportunities for visitors to experience the DAR Museum. Guided tours of 31 period rooms are available daily.
- A collection of over 30,000 early American artifacts
- Changing exhibitions in the Main Gallery
- Permanent exhibits in 31 Period Rooms illustrating American decorative arts from the 1600s to the early 20th century
- Collection strengths include quilts samplers and furniture
- Learning opportunities of all ages
- An impressive collection of story-rich artifacts, provide insight to early American life
Details:
Admission: Free
For more information: DAR Museum
DAR Library
One of the nation's premier centers for genealogy
The DAR Library, housed in Memorial Continental Hall, is an inviting place to visit as well as to conduct research. Those looking for more information about their ancestors may find it in the DAR Library, which has an extensive array of genealogical resources. Many of these items are not available elsewhere.
The DAR Library offers:
- Over 140,000 books, 250,000 research files, and thousands of manuscript items
- Collections specializing on Native American and African American history, genealogy, and culture
- Useful ancestry databases
- Expert research staff and search services
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Special Research Events, including the
Conference on Early American Genealogical Research
Details:
Admission: Free
More information: DAR Library
"The DAR Library" Video:
Please view the rest of "The DAR Library" video on YouTube.
DAR Americana Collection
This intimate gallery contains early American manuscripts and printed materials, such as newspapers, rare books, prints, and items of historical significance to the DAR.
The Americana Collection offers:
- Rare complete collection of all the Signers of Declaration of Independence
- Revolutionary War documents, letters, newspapers, almanacs, and diaries
- Memorabilia from the Daughters’ volunteer efforts during times of national crisis
- Exhibits spotlighting notable DAR members
Details:
Admission: Free
More information: Americana Collection
All buildings and galleries at DAR Headquarters are open to the public. Please call (202) 628-1776 with any questions. See Hours and Visitor Information for details on traveling to the building. We hope to see you soon!