Existing comment:
Dahlgren Hall
Constructed: 1903
Building Use:
Former: Armory, Dance Hall, Skating Rink
Current: Restaurant, Multi-purpose
Named For: Rear Admiral John A.B. Dahlgren (1809-1870).
Known as the "Father of Naval Ordnance," John A. Dahlgren was appointed a midshipman in the U.S. Navy in 1826. His most famous contribution to naval history was the invention of the "Dahlgren gun," a cast-iron, smoothbore shell gun designed to increase the safety and range of artillery fire aboard ships. During the Civil War, he served as Chief of the Bureau of Ordnance and Commander of the Washington Navy Yard where he was visited frequently by President Abraham Lincoln to discuss naval strategy and the latest weaponry. He was later appointed to rear admiral by Lincoln in command of the Union's South Atlantic Blockading Squadron during which time he led the naval support for General Sherman's 1864 campaign in Charleston, SC. In 1869, he returned to the Washington Navy Yard where he served until his death in 1870. Rear Admiral Dahlgren is buried in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Interesting Facts:
Dahlgren Hall served as an armory for 70 years and provided space for drill ceremonies and dances. From 1903 to 1957, the building hosted the Academy's commissioning ceremonies. In 1973, a renovation project added an ice-skating rink, which was closed in 2006 with the construction of the Brigade Sports Complex, as well as a restaurant now known as the Dry Dock.
Architect: Ernest Flagg (1857-1947):
Ernest Flagg was a reknowned [sic] American architect who completed his training at the famous Ecole des Beaux Arts in Paris. His career is notable for his use of innovative methods such as fireproofing and concrete construction as well as his dedication to urban reform and practical, low-income housing. In addition to his monumental work at the Academy, his other significant designs include the Singer Building in New York and St. Luke's Hospital and the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. |