Mary Ann Hall

Title

Mary Ann Hall

Description

Mary Ann Hall purchased a home in 1840 on land where the National Museum of the American Indian is today. Her three-story home became the site of a high end brothel for the District. Archaeologists excavated fragments of champagne bottles, oyster shells, and fine china, all indicating the upscale clientele of Hall's establishment. She created a profitable business. In 1860, Hall owned real estate and personal property valued at over $18,000. By the time of her death in 1886 that estate had grown to $100,000, the equivalent of $1.9 million today.

Creator

Mary Ann Hall

Source

Smithsonian Institution Architectural History and Historic Preservation Division. View original photograph.

Coverage

1860-1889

1830-1859

birthday

1815

Theme

everyday life

neighborhood

work & play