Tudor Place: Historic House & Garden in Washington, DC

Tudor Place Historic House & Garden is a museum unlike any other in Washington, DC. Expansive landscapes, landmark architecture and thousands of historic objects tell stories of Georgetown, slavery and freedom in the District, the Civil War in Washington and many more. A model of Federal-period architecture in the nation’s capital, Tudor Place was home to generations of the Peter family, descendants of Martha Washington.

In the fifth generation, Armistead Peter 3rd envisioned a gift to the nation—one that would celebrate the site’s association with George Washington and the founding family while honoring the fact that Tudor Place “was lived in and loved by generations of our family and in which they found great happiness.” By securing status as a National Historic Landmark, conveying a preservation easement to the U.S. Department of the Interior, and creating a charitable foundation, he laid the groundwork for this gift.  The family home and  surrounding garden were opened to the public in October 1988. His ideals and directives have guided our work for over three decades.

With each decade, our understanding of the history of the site deepens, as does our ability to interpret it with objectivity and honesty. While the Peter family found great happiness here, their lives were also filled with moments of tragedy, internal strife and the injustice of slavery. Within the balance, between veneration and condemnation, we find meaning in their lives.

From letters, diaries and carefully recorded reminiscences, we can assemble a portrait of this American family, document the lives of the enslaved people who were kept at Tudor Place and tell the stories of servants who worked here.

Today, Tudor Place is a cultural anchor in Georgetown. Our focus upon accessible family programming, a willingness to collaborate and a commitment to share a green urban landscape ensure community engagement and support. 

Mission

Tudor Place preserves the stories of six generations of descendants of Martha Washington and the enslaved and free people who lived and worked at this Georgetown landmark for nearly two centuries. By examining their legacy, we challenge ourselves and our visitors to celebrate the triumphs and confront the complexities of the past. Tudor Place attains this mission through the following endeavors:

• Preservation

As a pioneer in historic preservation and a recognized leader in the care of collections, Tudor Place is committed to providing the highest level of stewardship for the historic architecture, objects, documents and landscapes that tell the story of this National Historic Landmark.

• Education 

Through tours, programs, scholarship and educational partnerships, Tudor Place interprets its historical resources to advance the public’s understanding of the past.

• Rejuvenation

With 5 1/2 acres of gardens and grounds, Tudor Place provides an unexpected retreat for contemplation and healing in a restless city.

• Community Engagement

Through activities for children and families, Tudor Place builds lasting memories and cultivates the next generation of cultural stewards.

Staff & Leadership

Tudor Place is governed by a Board of Trustees who share their talents and treasure to ensure the success of Tudor Place today and in the future. These individuals come from varied backgrounds to coalesce around their love for this special place and a passion for its ability to enrich people’s lives. 

The Executive Director has been able to translate a lifelong love of American history into a rewarding career in museum and archive management. Mr. Mark Hudson has nearly 30 years of experience leading heritage organizations in three states and the District of Columbia. “These positions have allowed me to engage my lifelong passion for American history, while also having a positive impact upon the communities I have served.” Reflecting upon his time at Tudor Place, Hudson said, “As I have learned more about this historic treasure, my enthusiasm has grown. The museum’s Master Preservation Plan reflects a bold vision that demonstrates a commitment to the preservation and interpretation of this nationally significant site.” 

Jobs at Tudor Place

Passionate about: American history, architecture, historical objects, gardens  and flowers? Tudor Place is looking for you.  Click here to learn about employment openings, internships and volunteering. 

For Neighbors

Tudor Place seeks to be a responsible neighbor and a positive contributor to the Georgetown community. Neighbors of Tudor Place are invited to attend semiannual Neighborhood Liaison Committee meetings to ask questions and learn about Tudor Place.

Annual Reports

Tudor Place makes its annual report and 990 filings accessible to the public in an ongoing effort to be transparent and share information about the achievements.

Preservation

Tudor Place embraces its legal and ethical responsibility to provide prudent care and protection for its buildings and landscape structures, which are part of a common cultural heritage preserved now and in the future for the benefit of the public. The organization works with preservation partners to ensure that its historical resources are managed in accordance with best practices and receive the care they deserve.

The Master Preservation Plan provides a blueprint for the preservation of the landmark architecture, the conservation of extraordinary collections and the care of heritage landscapes, while supporting the organization’s educational mission and enhancing the experience of visitors. The plan has been reviewed and endorsed by multiple local and national preservation entities. An ambitious capital campaign is underway to raise the funds needed to fulfill the goals of the plan.