Existing comment:
Holt House:
The Holt House dates from the Federal period and served as a private residence from the time of its construction until 1889, when it was acquired by the Smithsonian as part of the newly created National Zoological Park (NZP). The house was substantially remodeled between 1890-1914 by several well-known architects for use as the Zoos administrative headquarters. In 1977, the Zoo relocated its headquarters to its new administration building, and the Holt House was subsequently used for research offices. The building has been vacant since 1988.
The Holt House has been individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973. It is designated a Category II Landmark of importance which contributes significantly to the cultural heritage and visual beauty of the District of Columbia. Two character-giving attributes listed on the nomination form that survive today include the following, the structure is one of the few remaining five-part Palladian houses in the District of Columbia, and the pastoral character of the house's siting. |