The Georgetowner: April 10, 2024 Issue

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JULIA DIAZ SOLD LISTINGS

Georgetown, Washington DC

Primarily serving the Washington D.C. Metropolitan Area, Julia has over thirty- ve years of experience as one of the area’s leading real estate professionals. She has sold in excess of $2.0 billion in real estate over the course of her career. As a seasoned Georgetowner, she's here to meet your needs. Whether you need market information or neighborhood guides, let Julia be your real estate expert.

https://diazaspergroup.com/blog/julia-diaz-sold-listings

Julia Diaz-Asper

Senior Vice President

35+ Years of Experience in Georgetown

(202) 256-1887

jasper@ttrsir.com

1206 30th St NW Washington, DC 20007

Sonya Bernhardt

Kate Oczypok

Peggy Sands FEATURE EDITOR

Post

Allyson Burkhardt

Lauretta McCoy

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Troy Riemer

Laura Argentieri

WHAT’S ONLINE GEORGETOWNER.COM

SUBSCRIBE to our twice weekly online Georgetowner Newsletter — simply click or scan the code and enter your email address.

WHAT BOWSER’S BUDGET MEANS FOR GEORGETOWN

BY PEGGY SANDS

Mayor Muriel Bowser at the Washington Nationals home opener on April 1. Courtesy Office of the Mayor.

REMEMBERING ESTHER COOPERSMITH

BY KATE OCZYPOK

Esther Coopersmith and her chief of staff, Janet Pitt, in 2021. Photo by Robert Devaney.

THE MAN BEHIND THE BRIDGE: FRANCIS SCOTT KEY

BY ROBERT DEVANEY

A romanticized vision of Francis Scott Key at “the dawn’s early light,” beholding Baltimore’s Fort McHenry in 1814. Courtesy Library of Congress/ Francis Scott Key Foundation.

Ana Harvey, CEO Dupont Underground Thursday, April 25

Doors open at 8:30 a.m. 1623 28th St. N.W

S&R Evermay / MG Moving / TTRSotheby’s / Citizens Assc. of Georgetown Seating Limited to 30 People For Information Call: 202-309-5556

A Special Thanks To:

Georgetown Transportation Study: Officials Ask for Kindness

BY PEGGY SANDS

Wednesday evening, April 3, was the second time in two nights that District Department of Transportation planners and outreach experts were to face a large group of Georgetown residents and business owners. The subject: their 17 recommendations to improve transportation access and circulation.

A complex and detailed, six-month study of Georgetown’s transportation hot spots — where collisions, heavy traffic and even traffic jams and gridlock have occurred — had just been completed. The planners and experts asked that the meeting be respectful, with constructive questions and ideas. They asked for kindness.

For the most part, that’s what they got.

Some of the issues were ones that had exasperated Georgetowners for years. For instance, heavy congestion on Wisconsin Avenue, M Street and side streets during rush hour. Another example: the difficulty of making turns from side streets (such as N, O and P Streets) onto Wisconsin Avenue, or crossing it, due to street structure, heavy traffic and parking.

The concept of a pedestrian-only zone (aka a “Barnes dance”) that might include diagonal crosswalks at the intersection of M Street and

Wisconsin Avenue was presented. For the most part, the study acknowledges heavily congested areas. But in nearly all these cases, there were three main recommendations: better, more visible signage; boldly painted crosswalks; and flex posts, some of them supersized.

Enforcement would be automatic at many of these new barriers, which have the advantage, according to the experts, of slowing traffic down.

and successful solution to slowing traffic before difficult turns or around sensitive places like school zones. But the most frustrating response to a long-requested solution — a partial one-way on the 2900 to 3100 blocks of N Street — was that “the data did not support the request.”

The two possible one-way street designations that engendered the most attention: 28th Street and 29th Street on the north side of M Street. Their conversion to one-way traffic had long been proposed on account of popular restaurants on 28th Street — one open until 3 a.m., with many patrons double-parking to pick up orders. Street parking on both sides made the two-way traffic particularly tricky. And incidents had occurred, causing focused police attention for a time.

The study acknowledges heavily congested areas. But in nearly all these cases, there were three main recommendations: better, more visible signage; boldly painted crosswalks; and flex posts, some of them supersized.

DDOT planner Ted Van Houten acknowledged the “aesthetic concerns about flex posts” — their appearance doesn’t fit the historic look of Georgetown, one of the agency’s stated goals. Speed bumps were a better, more aesthetic

In addition, drivers would often speed there — “in order to hurry through a suddenly empty street as a driver on one end hesitated to proceed. This won’t happen if the street is one-way,” noted Advisory Neighborhood Commission

Chair Gwen Lohse at the virtual meeting. Which street would be one-way north (most likely 28th Street) or one-way south seemed secondary to other issues, such as how many blocks north the restriction would apply. Some wanted the one-way up to P Street or even R Street.

“Problem is now people will discover they can use those streets through residential areas as quick bypasses to Wisconsin Avenue,” one viewer pointed out. But a 30-year resident on R Street laughed, commenting: “Too late. That discovery was made years ago and the streets are already impacted with shortcutters.”

Another issue with potentially significant impact was the reassignment of bus stops to safer corners. Almost always, the new designations would require the loss of two or three parking spots, not necessarily recovered in the old location, since circulation demanded more space for turns, etc. “Any loss of parking will be highlighted for attention,” Van Houten promised.

DDOT confirmed that the study did not deal with any new parking or parking enforcement options, nor bike lane issues, nor large District projects; those will be included in District-wide studies to be conducted in the near future. Similarly, the study did not consider electric vehicle issues, such as charging stations in Georgetown.

Review of new comments and survey responses will be carried out by DDOT in the next month, with another public review mid-May. Final recommendations are scheduled for June.

ANC: Budget, NPS, Hamilton Court

BY ROBERT DEVANEY

The Georgetown-Burleith-Hillandale Advisory Neighborhood Commission met on April 1 at Georgetown Visitation Prep, as well as remotely. Here are some highlights from the monthly meeting.

END OF THE DC CIRCULATOR BUS?

A representative from the Mayor’s Office announced that Mayor Muriel Bowser would submit her fiscal 2025 budget to the District Council. One of the proposals within her “Fiscal Year 2025 Budget, A Fair Shot: Strategic Investments and Shared Sacrifice,” along with cuts and tax hikes, is the complete elimination of the Circulator Bus — with some money possibly left over for community shuttles. Council hearings will continue through May. The main votes on the budget will occur on May 29, on June 12 and at the end of June.

END OF ROCK CREEK PARKWAY COMMUTER LANES?

The main takeaway from the update on Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway Multimodal Safety and Operational Improvement Plan/EA — that’s the National Park Service acronym for Environmental Assessment — was that the

51 YEARS

one-way commuter lanes in the mornings and evenings would be eliminated. Thus, Rock Creek Parkway would have two-way lanes all the time. Budgetary constraints on the U.S. Park Police were mentioned; the police close, open and monitor the entrances of the road to allow the current one-way rush hours.

HAMILTON COURT RENOVATION

Developers Ezra and Jessica Glass announced the upcoming renovation of Hamilton Court at 1220-1236 31st St. NW. Along with a new wellness massage shop, a new stone gateway will be erected at the sidewalk entrance. Before it was Hamilton Court with offices, it was called Hamilton Arms, where quite a lively group of Georgetowners resided. It even had a swimming pool. Previous tenants included Sally Quinn and The Georgetowner Newspaper.

While that future renovation looks promising, the plans for 1048 29th St. NW, currently a commercial property that holds a garage and offices, got the side eye from commissioners. The owners want a two-story pop-up and penthouse, along with a café that might use the greenery next to the C&O Canal. NPS-owned, that’s not going to happen. These plans will change a lot.

OTHER ITEMS:

• The Rose Park Farmers Market returns May 1, and a resolution commended 100 years of the Georgetown Garden Club.

• There was a resolution regarding the Georgetown Access and Circulation Study Draft Recommendations. Read more about that study in this issue.

• The commission approved a resolution regarding “the Mayor’s Proposed FY 25 Budget.” See details at georgetowner.com.

• There was discussion about restricting medical cannabis retailers from locating within 300 feet of any school. If a school is commercially zoned, that restriction is not required.

News Bytes

BY THE GEORGETOWNER

EVERMAY TO HOST CULTURAL BREAKFAST WITH ANA HARVEY

Ana Harvey, CEO of Dupont Underground, will be the featured speaker at The Georgetowner’s April 25 Cultural Leadership Breakfast. Before joining Dupont Underground, a nonprofit arts organization in the former streetcar station under Dupont Circle, Harvey advised government agencies and nonprofits on strategy and operations as president and CEO of HarveyHudson Group. Tickets are available at georgetowner.com.

GEORGETOWN GARDEN CLUB KICKS OFF CENTENNIAL AT EVERMAY

Members and friends of the Georgetown Garden Club gathered last month to kick off the club’s centennial celebrations. The first event featured Edwina von Gal of the Perfect Earth Project. The group, founded by von Gal, promotes nature-based, toxic-free land care and recognizes the interdependence of humans, plants and animals.

Edwina von Gal of the Perfect Earth Project.

Ana Harvey, CEO of Dupont Underground.

The City Tavern building at 3206 M St. NW is a three-and a-half-story brick Georgian building, dating from 1796. Courtesy City Tavern Club.

HELPING OUT OUR DEAR FRIEND AND COLLEAGUE

Earlier this month, our former fashion editor, Lauretta McCoy, told us some devastating news. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, she will need stem cell therapy to help fight the disease. She has set up a GoFundMe to help with these expenses, not typically covered by routine health insurance. Lauretta’s physician has recommended a minimum of three vials of stem cells, priced at $5,000 to $8,000 per vial. She hopes to raise $25,000 by the end of April to get back to living her life fully. You can visit Lauretta’s GoFundMe page at gofundme. com/f/lauretta-.

CITY TAVERN FOUNDATION TO BUY CITY TAVERN BUILDING

The City Tavern Preservation Foundation announced on March 29 that the City Tavern Club and the foundation have reached an agreement to purchase the historic City Tavern Building at 3206 M St. NW. Built in 1796, the City Tavern, the last Federal-era tavern in D.C., is on the National Register of Historic Places. To prevent its demolition, it was purchased in 1959 by a group of Washingtonians including Mildred Bliss, Marjorie James, Paul Mellon and Nancy Pyne. In order to purchase, restore and preserve the building, the CTPF is undertaking a capital campaign with a goal of $6.75 million, including $500,000 by June 1.

SAVE THE DATE: CAG’S FALL FUNDRAISER, CELEBRATING THE GEORGETOWNER’S 70TH ANNIVERSARY

On Friday, Sept. 20, the Citizens Association of Georgetown will host its signature Fall Fundraiser Cocktail Party, celebrating The Georgetowner’s 70th anniversary. The event will take place at Coolidge House at Quality Hill, 3425 Prospect St. NW. Tickets and sponsorships will be available on CAG’s website, cagtown.org.

Our former fashion editor, Lauretta McCoy, needs our help.

INS & OUTS

BY ROBERT DEVANEY

IN: ICE CREAM JUBILEE

Ice Cream Jubilee opened last month in the old Sweetgreen location at 3333 M St. NW, offering “ultra premium ice cream, vegan sorbets and vegan soft serve.” Founded in 2014, Ice Cream Jubilee “specializes in handcrafted, creative ice cream flavors that delight and inspire.”

IN: MOLTENI&C

Molteni&C, a luxury furniture and kitchen group, opened a 7,149-square-foot showroom at 3306 M St. NW. This opening marks the company’s sixth “Flagship Store” after New York, Miami, London, Paris and Doha.

IN: BROMPTON BIKES

Brompton Bikes has opened its Georgetown shop at 1214 Wisconsin Ave. NW, in the former Scotch & Soda clothing store. Brompton tells us: In 1975, Andrew Ritchie, a young engineer in London, “invented a bike with an ingenious three-part fold. A lightweight vehicle that transformed into a small, locked package in under 20 seconds. A bike that you could take anywhere. A ‘magic carpet for the city.’” There’s a cherry blossom-themed fold-up bicycle at the store available for a test ride.

Walk or bike by and say hello to Aaron. You’ve got lots of time to consider getting a new bike before Bike to Work Day on May 17.

IN: MARTIN’S REOPENS

It’s like you never left. Martin’s Tavern — closed for renovation — is now open again. Georgetown’s 90-year-old landmark restaurant got a new kitchen, owner Billy Martin told The Georgetowner, along with a redone floor, refurnished booths and new tables and chairs. It looks just like you remember it … only better.

IN: ROBIN DAVISSON’S ‘SPRING’S PALETTE’

StudioLab RD at 1037 33rd St. NW has opened “Spring’s Palette: A Celebration of Abstract Expression.” Artists Robin Davisson and Martha Spak are showing their paintings together for the first time. After visiting Davisson’s gallery, check out the new interactive flower sculpture in nearby Cady’s Alley, also part of the exhibition, on view through May 5.

IN: AFGHANIA

Taking over the former space of Don Lobo’s Mexican Grill, which closed May 31, 2020, after 16 years, Afghania — at 2811 M St. NW — is another restaurant by Omar Masroor. His Bistro Aracosia on MacArthur Boulevard gets high marks. Masroor’s other spots are in McLean and Springfield.

IN: OUTERKNOWN

Another cool, sustainable clothing store has opened at 1240 Wisconsin Ave. NW. The seven-year-old business was founded by surfer Kelly Slater. “We’re committed to protecting the environment and supporting fair labor,” Slater tells us. “The materials we use are vital to designing responsible products.”

IN: ARGENT

Yes, another women’s clothing store is coming to the avenue, and some more cool gals, too. This one is Argent at 1250 Wisconsin Ave. NW, with the slogan: “Successful separate, stronger together. It’s not uniformity, it’s unity.” The clothing company has some standout “work friends” and spokesmodels. The Georgetown store is the company’s first one outside New York.

IN: PURE SWEAT + FLOAT STUDIO

Pure Sweat + Float Studio opened last week at 3345 Prospect St. NW, next to Down Dog Yoga, with an infrared sauna and float therapy. Pure Sweat’s owner Liz Baker says: “With five full-spectrum infrared saunas and a deluxe float room, it will be a ‘corner store’ for wellness.”

COMING: RIVER CLUB

At Washington Harbour, River Club will succeed the shuttered Bangkok Joe’s Restaurant, which occupied the corner entrance for decades. The Residents Cafe

firm — with a restaurant just south of Dupont Circle — expects to open the new place this summer.

OUT: SHOWFIELDS AT 31ST & M

Showfields closed its doors at 3077 M St. NW last month. Opening around Christmas 2022 in the former Brooks Brothers space, along with retail incubator Concept 31/M space, Showfields called itself “a lifestyle discovery store” and “the most interesting store in the world.”

The Georgetown store — which occupied a roughly 20,300-square-foot space owned by real estate developer EastBanc — was the fourth store for Showfields. Its other stores are in Manhattan, Miami and Brooklyn.

OUT: OUTDOOR VOICES

“Take a Hike” is the advice on the front window of the closed Outdoor Voices at 3025 M St. NW, which opened in 2018. Written messages from former employees: “Sayonara” and Peace Out.” The athletic leisure brand for women and men closed all of its stores last week but remains as an online business.

OUT: MONO BY ALL ABOUT BURGER

Mono Diner at 1424 Wisconsin Ave. NW, which opened in 2019, closed last week. The seemingly popular restaurant, offering table seating with a “diner” feel, was operated by All About Burger, owned by Mohammad Esfahani.

Geo rge S aund ers Reading

in th e O ak Hill Cemet ery R enwick Ch ap el

Friday April 26th 5pm

As part of our 175th anniversary celebration, the Oak Hill Cemetery Historic Preservation Foundation is proud to announce that Lincoln in the Bardo author George Saunders will give a reading in the Renwick Chapel. Link to purchase a ticket in the events section of our website: www.oakhillcemeterydc.org

April 20th Is Dog Day at Oak Hill Cemetery! 9 to 4 pm: Free!

Did You Know?

Oak Hill Cemetery 175th Anniversary

Oak Hill Cemetery has over 800 sites available for purchase – single cremation sites, double niches, hundreds of casket sites, family sites, and more.

By Appointment: (202) 337-2835

‘Hair Force One’: Intimate Yet Respectful

BY OLGA BOIKESS

Eivind Bjerke — a Norwegian immigrant who became the hairdresser of first ladies, royalty and Georgetown “who’s-whos” — tells his remarkable life story in “Hair Force One.” The new paperback memoir is filled with charming anecdotes that never cross the line to tell-all sensationalism.

In the book, Bjerke recounts his beginnings as a farm boy who milked cows, then emigrated to the U.S. as a 19-year-old.

Working at a Georgetown salon, his clients soon included President Lyndon B. Johnson’s daughters, Luci Baines and Lynda Bird. Before long, he became the official White House hairdresser, styling Rosalynn Carter’s hair, as well as sometimes serving as President Jimmy Carter’s barber. He traveled around the world on Air Force One with the Carters, becoming one of Rosalynn’s good friends.

His roster of well-known clients also includes Norway’s Queen Sonja, Margaret Thatcher, Dianne Feinstein and Julia Child.

Other famous faces — and heads — like Estée Lauder (who wanted him to move to New York) and Pamela Harriman (who couldn’t help but charm him) became both clients and friends. He arranged for Queen Sonja to visit Harriman’s art-filled house, where she mingled with prominent figures in the art world.

His intimate yet respectful accounts of his White House visits; the narration of his Texas trip to style Luci Baines Johnson’s hair for her wedding; the heartwarming story of his lifelong love affair with his wife MaryAnn; tales of his early-morning visits to local TV stations; and recollections of his many clients with name recognition make the book an easy, enjoyable read.

Bjerke describes in fascinating detail his trips with the Carters, including a magical gala evening at the Palace of Versailles and a visit to Camp David while the Camp David Accords were being hammered out.

One of the most significant episodes in Bjerke’s life was traveling to Oslo with the Carters when President Carter accepted the Nobel Peace Prize. The book ends, fittingly, with his attendance at the Carters’ 75th wedding anniversary celebration in July of 2021. There, in Plains, Georgia, he mingled with clients and former clients including Luci Baines Johnson and Nancy Pelosi.

As he continues to perform hair magic (and sell copies of his book) at Eivind and Hans of Georgetown, his Wisconsin Avenue salon and spa, Bjerke, a born storyteller, is wondering what to write about next.

Letter to the Editor

DDOT Meeting, Study: ‘Waste of Taxpayer Money’

To the Editor,

Take a Breath and Honor Our Planet

This year, Earth Day is Monday, April 22.

With all the happy chaos that spring can bring, sometimes Earth Day can fly by in the blink of an eye, just like the eclipse. We encourage you to stop, take a breath and honor our planet by learning about sustainability, climate change and how to make our planet better for future generations. Read on for a few options.

“Hurricane Diane” will be presented in Georgetown University’s Devine Studio Theater. The title character of the show, which addresses climate change, is “a butch gardener from Vermont with a down-to-earth swagger that belies her true celestial identity — the Greek god Dionysus.” Performances are: April 12, 13 and 17 to 20 at 8 p.m.; and April 14 at 2 p.m. If you’ve got little ones at home, they’ll

love the Earth Day Family Festival on April 20 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Kogod Courtyard of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery. Also on April 20, from 4 to 7 p.m., a Concert to End Fossil Fuels will take place on the National Mall at 14th Street NW. The event will include speakers, a rally and performances by several bands.

You can honor Earth Day close to home simply by spending time at one of Georgetown’s beautiful green spaces, such as Volta Park, Montrose Park or Rose Park. And why not skip the car and literally “run” (or walk) errands? No matter what you choose to do this Earth Day, just remember: no act to help our planet is too small.

DDOT’s Problem with Georgetown

D.C. Department of Transportation planners and outreach experts met with Georgetowners twice last week to discuss 17 recommendations to improve the town’s transportation access and circulation. There was an in-person meeting at St. John’s parish hall that displayed each proposal on an easel. The hall was filled with more than 100 people. Residents were encouraged to leave comments via post-its on each recommendation board on display. There was some individual discussion at each numbered bulletin board, as it were, but there was no public forum, per se or ability

to ask questions. Most residents were unhappy with the set-up.

In both meetings, DDOT officials asked that the meeting be respectful, civil, and productive with constructive questions and ideas. They asked for kindness. Kindness? Respect? Were they scared?

Just two months ago, DDOT erected dropoff zones removing all parking for all the 3200 block of M Street and more. Of course, there was no public discussion of such changes. (We’re not even going to talk about bike lanes, plastic flex posts or streateries affecting rush hour traffic on M St.)

DDOT does what it does because it is DDOT — and they have more than a public relations problem.

The lack of transparency and communication between DDOT and Georgetown leaders did not happen 20 years ago, when the two entities had relatively effective communication, several former ANC commissioners recall. Anger at the growing lack of transparency has been increasingly expressed.

The DDOT officials assigned to discuss the study of traffic circulation and access in Georgetown provided little to no valuable information. What Georgetowners need and want is better communication and transparency. How about an actual measurement of the width of the streets? Especially on the 3200 of N St. or 1200 of 28th St., where at rush hour they are choked with new traffic patterns avoiding M St. for starters. Much more to come. See the study here: https://engage. dc.gov/georgetownstudy

On April 2, I attended the community meeting conducted by the D.C. Department of Transportation, regarding its “Georgetown Transportation Access and Circulation Study,” in the parish hall of St. John’s Church on O Street.

I have been involved with the Georgetown community for more than 30 years, including serving as the Citizens Association of Georgetown’s president twice and a short stint as an ANC Commissioner. This historic district is a treasure within the District of Columbia — both its residential and business streets.

The meeting that evening was possibly the poorest run information sharing meeting I have ever attended.

It certainly appeared that the lead presenter and the DDOT “Workshop Boards” were meant not to explain why this DDOT study (and taxpayer money) was of value to Georgetown. The worst statement from the presenter was his constant referral to the departments “pots of money” available for this study. Never did he

acknowledge that his “pots of money” were the tax dollars of those in the room. That attitude is what makes many government bureaucrats are held in low esteem. And rightly so.

In addition, after he made his remarks, he stated that the enforcement of what DDOT would do with our tax dollars would not include enforcement. He stated that would be the duty of the Metropolitan Police Department. Unless you have been living underground, you know that MPD is understaffed and struggling to deal with increased crime in our neighborhoods. So, my takeaway from this meeting and this study is that it is a waste of our taxpayer money. Of course, there are transportation concerns that need to be addressed. However, I hope Mayor Bowser will appoint a better qualified group of people to come up with a serious plan that tackles and solves (with enforcement provisions) the transportation needs of Georgetown.

—PamlaMoore,pastpresident,

TheCitizensAssociationofGeorgetown

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

PATRONS’ PARTY FOR THE GEORGETOWN HOUSE TOUR

Wednesday, April 17

Dumbarton House, 2715 Q St. NW, 6 to 8 p.m. — georgetownhousetour.com.

THE GEORGETOWN HOUSE TOUR

Saturday, April 20

St. John’s Church, 3240 O St. NW, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. — georgetownhousetour.com

OPEN STUDIOS AT THE FILLMORE SCHOOL

Sunday, April 21

S&R Evermay presents … The Fillmore School Studio Prize Artists will open their spaces for viewing and art purchase, 1 to 4 p.m. The Residents Collective will also have an exhibition. The Fillmore School, 1801 35th St. NW. Admission is free, and parking is available in the lot at 1800 34th St. NW.

CULTURAL LEADERSHIP BREAKFAST: ANA HARVEY

Thursday, April 25

Ana Harvey, CEO of Dupont Underground, will be the featured speaker at The Georgetowner’s cultural breakfast at Georgetown’s historic Evermay estate, 1623 28th St. NW. Doors open at 8:25 a.m. for

a buffet breakfast; the program will follow from 9 to 10 a.m. Admission to the event is $40, payable in advance at georgetowner.com or via Eventbrite.

ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 2E

Wednesday, May 1

ANC 2E represents the Georgetown, Burleith and Hillandale neighborhoods. The monthly meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. For details, visit anc2e.com.

OLD GEORGETOWN BOARD

Thursday, May 2

Filing deadline is April 11. OGB meetings are held at 9 a.m. on the first Thursday of every month except August. For details, visit cfa.org.

KITTY KELLEY INTERVIEW

Thursday, May 2

Presented by the Citizens Association of Georgetown, 6 to 8:30 p.m., at Nancy Taylor Bubes’s residence, 3030 K St. NW. $75 a ticket. (Rain date: May 3)

CAG ANNUAL MEETING

Tuesday, May 7

Citizens Association of Georgetown, 6 to 8 p.m., Duke Ellington School of the Arts. Free to attend.

DDOT signage on the 3200 block of M Street NW. Georgetowner photo.

Previewed at Mount Zion: ‘DC Emancipation & The Right to Vote’

BY ROBERT DEVANEY

A preview of an original work-indevelopment, the opera “DC Emancipation & The Right to Vote,” was staged in Georgetown at Mount Zion United Methodist Church on March 14.

“DC Emancipation & The Right to Vote” tells the uplifting story of the African Americans who leveraged their collective power to make D.C. “an island of freedom.” Alliance for New Music-Theatre partnered with the Citizens Association of Georgetown in the special presentation of the opera, which celebrates key mid-19th-century figures and events in local Black history. The narrative culminates in D.C.’s early emancipation, including the first votes cast by African American men in Georgetown’s Rose Park.

Composer Ronald “Trey” Walton III, a Duke Ellington School of the Arts graduate; choreographer Anita Gonzalez, professor of performing arts and African American studies at Georgetown University; and cast members of “DC Emancipation & The Right to Vote” showed off dance selections from the period and representative songs from Walton’s original score. Music Director Evelyn Simpson Curenton, steeped in the tradition of historic Black church music, has worked with opera superstars including Kathleen Battle and Jessye Norman.

Witnessing the lively, meaningful performances, the audience in the church shared in the optimistic spirit of the Black struggle for freedom.

According to Alliance for New MusicTheatre, the opera, still being worked on, will include many scenes “taken directly from historic records. Alfred Pope and his wife Hannah, reunited after the Pearl Affair and manumitted, took up residence in Georgetown, where the house still stands. Pope helped many others gain their freedom and later spoke in front of Congress. Along with his friend and fellow elder, Hezekiah Turner, at Mount Zion Church, they became two of the very first African American males to cast their votes in a

national election.

“Their stories will be woven together with others like Jacob Ross from Kentucky, who was ordained by the Methodist Church while still enslaved, but when manumitted came to live in Georgetown with his wife and became an itinerant preacher well-known around the area’s church circuit. Mary Burrell was not only a leader of a female benevolent society but a teacher at Sumner School for Coloreds. Much of the music will be original, but some melodies may be found in old hymnals in Mount Zion’s archives.”

“We knew in telling the early history of the cemeteries and the two Georgetown churches, Dumbarton and Mount Zion UM Churches, born out of the formerly enjoined Old Methodist Church, there was an even bigger story to tell: that of D.C. Emancipation and Rose Park, where the first African American males in the country legally voted,” said Alliance for New MusicTheatre Artistic Director Susan Galbraith.

“We believe the current work will have even greater historic ‘placemaking’ significance for our entire city,” added Galbraith. “We plan to mount the fully orchestrated work with a cast of 10 in April 2025 as part of the citywide celebration of D.C. Emancipation.”

“This event was a dream come true, bringing Georgetown history to life through the arts,” said Anne C. Fisher, chair of CAG’s Living in History Committee. “African American history is significant in the history of Georgetown. The preview of ‘DC Emancipation & The Right to Vote’ represented an exciting community collaboration including CAG, Alliance for New Music-Theatre, Black Georgetown, Georgetown University and Mount Zion United Methodist Church.”

The genesis and growth of the production reveals that it does, indeed, take a village to make it a reality. In addition, the talent and support involved are evident of a true community partnership.

For more information, visit newmusictheatre.org. DC Emancipation Day is April 16.

At the March 14 presentation of

At DOYLE, we tell the stories of objects and people. As a familyowned auction house, our business is personal and our process is bespoke. Each consignment begins with expertise paired with thoughtful conversations to ultimately share the story behind each item with our global audience.

Our Specialists are collecting Fine Art, Jewelry, Watches and more for auction or outright purchase. Please contact us to schedule a private in-person or virtual appointment.

Above: Fairfield Porter, Wild Roses. Oil on canvas. Est. $100,000-150,000. Auction May 8.

Below: Bulgari Pair of Gold, Pink Sapphire and Diamond Earclips. Est. $30,000-50,000. Auction April 18.

“DC Emancipation & The Right to Vote” at Mt. Zion United Methodist Church: Anne C. Fisher, Anita Gonzalez, Lisa Fager, Ronald “Trey” Walton, Evelyn Simpson Curenton, Susan Galbraith and Neville Waters. Georgetowner photo.

2024 House Tour

3264 S St. NW / Melissa and Dale Overmyer

“I engaged an architect and he engaged a designer [wink, wink], but that was 38 years ago when we got married!” — Melissa Overmyer

highly recommend my architect, Dale Overmyer, who is also my husband! He’s the best.

COMPILED BY AZALI KASSUM

This year’s guide to the Georgetown House Tour on April 20th features a Q&A with the owners of the homes on the tour, compiled by House Tour Co-Chair, Azali Kassum. Donna Leanos is Co-Chairing the House Tour once again this year. Below is the list of questions we asked, followed by the owners’ in-depth responses, edited for space and clarity.

Our questions:

• Why did you choose to move to Georgetown?

• What in particular drew you to your home?

• Was your objective a renovation, a restoration, both or neither?

• Did you engage an architect?

• Did you engage an interior designer?

• What are some of your favorite features of your home?

• What drove your inspiration and design choices?

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Leading up to this year’s tour, our newsletters will feature individual houses with photos and details from a professional’s perspective.

Houses on the Tour

3026 P Street NW

Owners: Christie & Steve Pelley

Designer: Zoe Feldman

Builder: Pyramid

3246 S Street NW

Owners: Melissa & Dale Overmyer

Architect: Dale Overmyer

We chose to move to Georgetown just after we married and graduated, 38 years ago, because Dale’s uncle had a beautiful row house on Reservoir Road that he invited us to live in with him and experience D.C. There were so many fantastic job opportunities and we eventually fell in love with Georgetown. We expected to only stay about a year, and here we are, only having moved a few blocks multiple times over the years.

We chose our home because it had a cozy feeling and an unbelievable amount of storage, parking, a pool and a large garden. It was so ugly at the time, but it was ripe with potential. Due to the ugly factor, we could afford it. Our goal was a total renovation and restoration, which we were given the opportunity to do twice. I engaged an architect and he engaged a designer [wink, wink], but that was 38 years ago when we got married! We worked together to bring our vision for this home to life. I am now a theologian and writer, but still love to do design for fun, and I

3129 N Street NW

Owners: Bonnie & Philip Tom

Architect: BVA

BarnesVanze Architects

Designer: Liz Mearns

3322 Dent Place NW

Owner: Beth Latimer

Designer: Skip Sroka

I have so many favorite features, like creating the two-story atrium to greet you when you walk into the house, the conservatory feel that connects the family room to the garden, the fireplace with my fossil collection imbedded into the masonry, the backlit onyx wall in the powder room, the stumpery in the garden, the upstairs primary bath and suite and, if I’m honest, my nugget ice machine in the bar.

I always choose two opposing muses when I do design work. This time for the interior and furniture it was Austin Powers and a cave man. If they wouldn’t have chosen it, neither would I (like the sleek contemporary furniture paired with raw or petrified wood and loads of plants).

The exterior was more of a “Christmas in Connecticut” kind of warm, welcoming, happy home feel. It’s an unusual combination, but a fun surprise that actually works when you enter.

1513 28th Street NW

Owners: Laura Kim & Chip Newton

Architect: BVA BarnesVanze

Architects

Designer: Maria Pollard Crosby/ Crosby Designs LLC

3122 N Street NW

Owners: Elena & Philip Fletcher

3045 West Lane Keys

Owners: Hannah Biggie & Jon Read

Architect: Christian Zapatka

Designer: Azali Kassum Design

Builder: OC Builders

3303 Prospect Street NW

Owners: Susan & John Stanton

3129 N St. NW / Bonnie and Philip Tom

“We think of ourselves as stewards rather than owners. That said, we definitely wanted to modernize and renovate so it could be used for generations to come.” — Bonnie and Philip Tom

We were living in New York City pre-Covid and moved to our home in Hudson Valley, New York, throughout the pandemic. After Covid, we realized we had to return to civilization, so we went city shopping and ended up in D.C. Philip’s brother, sister-in-law and nephew live nearby, so it made the decision that much easier. Georgetown was the perfect mix of an urban, walking environment with a historic neighborhood that we felt we were looking for. We can’t resist a project! We loved the scale of the historic, original parts of the home, and saw so much potential for making the addition work for modern living. On the outside, we loved the red brick facade, convenience of parking — and it’s hard to say no to a pool with D.C. summers!

Restoration came first — we think of ourselves as stewards rather than owners. That said, we wanted to modernize and renovate so it could be used for generations to come. We had a wonderful time working with BarnesVanze.

Ankie, Wayne and Adam were a pleasure to work with at every stage of this long project. We also worked with Liz Mearns of Imagine Design. Her team and she gave so much focus to a project with such ambitious scale.

The butler’s pantry makes entertaining that much more fun, and Philip loves his office downstairs. On a day-to-day basis, we love the family room in the kitchen, particularly the window seat, where our dog loves to camp out for the day.

We had a few pieces or samples that led the way on design, like the burnt red velvet for the living room sofa, a navy grasscloth wallpaper in the butler’s pantry and the brass pendants for the kitchen. Liz and her team honed our ideas and tastes to bring it all together into a cohesive feeling. We wanted something that felt elegant but not stuffy, sporty and bright, with an emphasis on primary colors. For instance, we pulled that red and blue together with the white marble fireplaces to create an homage to our new home city.

Patrons’ Party Co-Chairs

BY KATE OCZYPOK

Puja Parekh and Blair Wunderlich, co-chairs of the Patrons’ Party, are aiming for an unforgettable event — while simultaneously bolstering vital initiatives at St. John’s Episcopal Church with muchneeded financial support.

“While each home boasts its own unique charm and character, a common thread of reverence for architectural heritage and a

celebration of modern living binds them together,” Parekh said.

Tour participants love taking in each home’s details and creative use of space.

Parekh and Wunderlich’s central focus is organizing the Patrons Party, which serves as a kickoff to the House Tour. In addition to supporting programs run by St. John’s, funds from the Patrons

Party and the House Tour go toward Georgetown Ministry Center’s food security initiatives and other community initiatives.

This year’s Patrons Party will take place at Dumbarton House.

“This historical immersion serves as a fitting prelude to the House Tour, setting the stage for an exploration of Georgetown’s rich heritage and architectural legacy,” noted Parekh.

Parekh, who works in the private equity industry, quickly discovered

that fundamental qualities like problem-solving, budgeting and organization are assets in navigating the intricacies of event planning and coordination.

“A big part of my job is forming meaningful connections, which proved valuable for the House Tour and Patrons Party,” she said.

A link between Wunderlich’s work as an art insurance broker, working with private collectors and museums, and her House Tour role is her deep appreciation for craftsmanship and preservation.

can elevate a home or community from a place to an experience,” she said. “The storied homes of the Georgetown House Tour showcase the artistry of the incredible D.C. architects who thoughtfully preserve each detail.”

“I have seen firsthand how art

When they’re not busy preparing for the Patrons Party and House Tour, Parekh and Wunderlich enjoy visiting local shops and restaurants.

This year’s Patrons Party is set for Wednesday, April 17, at 6 p.m.

The 91st annual Georgetown House Tour will be held on Saturday, April 20, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Co-chairs Blair Wunderlich and Puja Parekh.

Our doors are open

Celebrating its 91st year, this annual event graciously opens historic 18th and 19th century homes in Georgetown to Tour attendees.

Auction Block

BY KATE OCZYPOK

Two highlights of this month’s auction report: Despite a hole and discoloration, a Christian Dior newspaper print dress sold for over $23,000; and a sapphire and diamond ring soared more than $300,000 above its estimate.

BONHAMS

Christian Dior Newspaper Print Dress

SOLD FOR: $23,040

From creative director John Galliano, the dress, similar to one seen on “Sex and the City,” is 100-percent silk jersey. It was auctioned in good condition, despite a hole three inches above the front hemline and discoloration throughout from age.

DOYLE

Yolande Ardissone Oil on Canvas

ESTIMATE: $2,000–$3,000

SOLD FOR: $5,120

Signed “Ardissone (II),” the painting, titled “Sauzon,” after the seaside village in Brittany it depicts, measures 23 ¾ x 28 ¾ inches. Yolande Ardissone, 96, is a French painter who studied in Paris and was inspired by the work of Renoir, Gauguin and van Gogh.

CHRISTIE’S

No Reserve Sapphire and Diamond Ring

ESTIMATE: $300,000–$500,000

SOLD FOR: $856,800

This 8.19-carat, cushion mixed-cut sapphire, diamond and platinum ring, a U.S. size 4, sold for more than $300,000 above its estimate. The diamonds are two trapezoid-shaped gems with a weight of 1.2 to 1.4 carats.

saturday, aPril 20, 2024

11 am - 5 Pm 3240 o street, nw

We appreciate the generous support of our sponsors.

Tickets are $60 per person online in advance, or $65 per person on the day of the Tour. Tickets include Parish Tea at St. John’s from 1:30 - 4:30 pm. Group prices are available. For more information and to purchase tickets online, please visit: www.georgetownhousetour.com silver

Paul MacMahon (703) 609-1905

Helen MacMahon (540) 454-1930

Margaret MacMahon Carroll (540) 545-0650

Paul MacMahon (703) 609-1905

Brian

ARTS

Spring Theater Guide

BY RICHARD SELDEN

ONGOING …

At Arena Stage, Trip Cullman directs “Unknown Soldier,” the last musical by “Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson” composer Michael Friedman, with lyrics by Friedman and Daniel Goldstein, who wrote the book (through May 5). Sing along with Ronnette, Chiffon and Crystal at the Ford’s Theatre production of “Little Shop of Horrors,” directed by Kevin S. McAllister. Not recommended for florists, dentists or vegetarians (through May 18).

“Shear Madness,” in the Kennedy Center Theater Lab, never goes out of style (through Sept. 29).

LAST CHANCE THIS MONTH …

Hercule Poirot learns who done it in Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express” at The Little Theatre of Alexandria, adapted by Ken Ludwig and directed by Stefan Sittig (through April 13).

Visionaries Of the Creative Arts (VOCA), supporting Deaf and hard-of-hearing BIPOC artists, presents “A Not So Quiet Nocturne” — written by Jaye Austin-Williams and directed by Alexandria Wailes — at the Atlas Performing Arts Center. Set in the early 1990s, the play

focuses on Charlyn, a young, Black, Deaf woman who contracted AIDS from her late husband (April 11 to 21).

Also at the Atlas: Navajo activist Esmeralda (Anaseini Katoa) and Mrs. Reagan (Lynn Hawley) face off in Rhiana Yazzie’s “Nancy,” directed by Ken-Matt Martin for Mosaic Theater Company (through April 21).

Sharyn Rothstein’s world-premiere adaptation of the 1975 film “Hester Street,” based on Abraham Cahan’s “Yekl: A Tale of the New York Ghetto,” is now at Theater J, directed by Oliver Butler, with music by Joel Waggoner (through April 21).

Just opened at The National Theatre: Larissa FastHorse’s new adaptation of “Peter Pan,” directed by Lonny Price, with choreography by Lorin Latarro (through April 21). In the Kennedy Center Opera House: choreographer Kate Prince’s “Message in a Bottle,” set to the music of Sting (through April 21).

“Islander,” Best New Musical at the Edinburgh Fringe, opens any minute at Olney Theatre Center. The two-character show was conceived and directed by Amy Draper, with staging and associate direction by Eve Nicol. Finn Anderson wrote the music and lyrics, and Stewart Melton

OPENING THIS MONTH AND PLAYING ON …

wrote the book (April 11 to 28).

The patient wife of Odysseus (Jessica Phillips) sips a bourbon in Alex Bechtel’s musical “Penelope,” directed by Eva Steinmetz at Signature Theatre. The book is by Bechtel, Grace McLean and Steinmetz (through April 28).

Estranged father Kenyatta and “smart and sexy hustler” Nina try to work things out in Dominique Morisseau’s “Sunset Baby,” directed by Deidra La Wan Starnes at Anacostia Playhouse (through April 28).

At Discovery Theater’s “Mother Earth & Me,” in the Smithsonian’s Ripley Center, kids between the ages of 5 and 10 sing songs about the water cycle (April 9, 11, 12, 25 and 26).

A dictionary editor is caught using profanity in Jacqueline Bircher’s “Webster’s Bitch,” directed by Keegan Theatre Artistic Director Susan Marie Rhea (through May 5).

D.C.’s most coveted ticket? “Macbeth,” directed by Shakespeare Theatre Company Artistic Director Simon Godwin, starring Ralph Fiennes and Indira Varma, now playing in Brentwood on a former BET sound stage after runs in Liverpool, Edinburgh and London (through May 5).

In Inda Craig-Galván’s “A Jumping Off Point,” directed by Jade King Carroll — the world-premiere centerpiece of Round House

Derrick D. Truby Jr. as Seymour in “Little Shop of Horrors.” Photo by Scott Suchman. Courtesy Ford’s Theatre.

Theatre’s 2024 National Capital New Play Festival — a Black woman screenwriter is accused of plagiarism (April 10 to May 5). The festival also features free developmental readings (sold out, but with waiting lists) of: “Arab Spring” by Denmo Ibrahim, directed by Lila Rachel Becker (April 18 and 20); “Agape, or The Church Play” by Agyeiwaa Asante, directed by April Monu (April 19 and 21); “The Prime” by Dani Stoller, directed by Ryan Rilette (April 25 and 27); and “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” by Nate Dendy and Aaron Posner, directed by Posner (April 26 and 28).

Commissioned by Solas Nua, Luke Casserly’s “Distillation,” with perfume by Joan Woods, “takes you to the Irish bog landscape through scent” (April 11 to May 12 at Eaton DC, May 15 to 19 at Round House Theatre).

Signature Theatre lets it all hang out with “Hair,” directed by artistic director Matthew Gardiner, with music directed by Mark G. Meadows and choreography by Rickey Tripp (April 16 to July 7).

Australian playwright John Shand’s postapocalyptic “The Last Drop” is directed by Scena Theatre Artistic Director Robert McNamara at the DC Arts Center (April 18 to May 12). In Adil Mansoor’s “Amm(i)gone” at Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, Mansoor converses (via audio) with his mother as she translates “Antigone” into Urdu. The one-man show is co-directed by Lyam B. Gabel (April 20 to May 12).

ARTS

Back at the Atlas: “Marjorie Prime” follows octogenarian Marjorie’s interaction with a hightech replacement for her late husband Walter. The show is directed by Jason Tamborini, artistic director of Prologue Theatre, which seeks to start conversations about difficult topics (April 26 to May 19).

The hills are alive with fiddle and banjo in “Sing Down The Moon: Appalachian Wonder Tales” — directed by MaryHall Surface, who wrote the book and, with composer David Maddox, the lyrics — at Glen Echo Park’s Adventure Theatre MTC (April 25 to May 26).

READ THE GUIDE THROUGH JUNE ON GEORGETOWNER.COM.

Lynn Hawley as Nancy Reagan in “Nancy.” Photo by Chris Banks. Courtesy Mosaic Theater Company.

Discover the Transformative Shades of Spring Positively Pastels!

BY ALLYSON BURKHARDT

The season’s hottest fashion colors are soft, soothing pastels. Designer collections have adopted a gentle mix of barely-there hues radiating peace and tranquility. The 2024 color trend was inspired by a connection to nature that suggests a more balanced way of living.

Expect cool, complementary colors that communicate a sense of optimism for a transformative time. The fashion palette is characterized by clear coastal colors and sunwashed shades.

After a year of intense pinks, subtle tones of lilac, mint and lemon exude a muted elegance, infused with modernity. Try introducing ethereal pieces in powder blue, rose quartz and sea foam to bring a touch of romance into your wardrobe.

The Pantone color of the year, “Peach Fuzz,” is praised for its versatility and luxurious appeal. Wear it in a rainbow of shades from warm apricot through deep valencia CAP? to celebrate your own artistic expression. Peaceful pastels are the perfect complements to the creative spirit of spring.

Allyson Burkhardt is the founder of Let’s Get Dressed! Image & Style Services. Go to letsgetdresseddc.com to put your best look forward.

1. A.L.C. Camila Tiered Cotton Dress $395. Nordstrom

2. HARWELL GODFREY Pastel Bead Bracelet $2,995. Marissa Collections.

3. IRO Boucle Jacket $390. Neiman Marcus.

4. MOTHER Parfait Crop Jeans $218. Bloomingdale’s.

5. ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS St Tropez Leather Sandals $205. Farfetch

6. CHIARA BONI Belted Trench Coat $750. Saks Fifth Avenue.

7. STAUD Beaded Bean Clutch $225. Shopbop

8. GINGER & SMART Sweet Whispers Maxi Dress $595. Saks Fifth Avenue.

With 11 waterfront communities and 85 miles of beaches, finding your own slice of paradise shouldn’t be too hard. Plan your summer getaway at CrystalCoastNC.org.

You Can Rest in Peace in Georgetown, If You Can Afford It

BY KITTY KELLEY

If you live in Georgetown, you can sin and be saved in the same zip code. Bars and bistros border the 12 square blocks of this historic area, which also offers churches of every denomination: Baptist, Catholic, Christian Science, Episcopal, Lutheran, Methodist and Presbyterian. In addition, there’s the Kesher Israel synagogue on N Street, and a few blocks away the Church of Two Worlds, which offers séances and “communing with the departed.”

When the end draws near or, as W. C. Fields said, “when the fellow in the bright nightgown” beckons, Georgetown offers acres of marble orchards that line God’s waiting room. The largest is Oak Hill Cemetery, whose 22 manicured acres border R Street and meander toward Rock Creek Parkway. On Mill Road off 27th and Q Streets, the Mount Zion and Female Union Band Society Cemeteries share graveyard space with the Old Methodist Burying Ground.

Holy Rood Cemetery on Wisconsin Avenue, owned by Georgetown University, houses 7,000 gravesites, including those of 1,000 free and enslaved African Americans. Georgetown Visitation Monastery Cemetery on 35th Street provides burial for the Sisters of the Visitation

of Holy Mary; and the Jesuit Community Cemetery on the grounds of Georgetown University is reserved for its priests, including those who sold more than 272 enslaved individuals for $115,000 in 1838 ($3.14 million in today’s dollars). The Society of Jesus has pledged $100 million to support the education of descendants of those enslaved and sold.

Standing on the scrubby hillside of Mount Zion, founded in 1801, Lisa Fager, executive director of the Black Georgetown Foundation, points toward the gated grounds of Oak Hill Cemetery, where “all the grand white folks are buried.” A few feet away, an anonymous poem written on cardboard and nailed to a tree confirms her words: These cemeteries stand together

Like Bouda and Pest. Here, it’s not water than divides It’s the color test.

Suzy French, MS, CRNP

“was only available to rich white citizens.”

“That’s changed … some,” Lavelle says, referencing the page in her book that shows a photo of the gravesite of Peggy Cooper Cafritz, co-founder of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts. “Her memorial on Passionflower Pathway has a unique shape that could be described as a bean or a cloud.” The large gray stone for Cafritz is inscribed: “She was the only woman we knew who could fly without ever leaving the ground.”

Nearby on Violet Pathway is the unmarked gravesite of civil rights activist and lawyer Vernon E. Jordan, who worked closely with President Bill Clinton. “We haven’t yet received the final funerary plans from the family,” says Lavelle. Jordan died in 2021.

Not far away on North Hill, Lavelle points to the grave of Madeleine Albright, the first woman secretary of state, who died in 2022. “We’re awaiting her headstone, and I don’t think you’ll be too surprised to see it carved with a brooch,” says Lavelle. “She was famous for her pins.”

The most visited site at Oak Hill is the mausoleum of William Thomas Carroll, who loaned his family’s crypt to Abraham Lincoln when the president’s 11-year-old son, Willie, died of tuberculosis in 1862. “My poor boy,” said Lincoln in tears. “He was too good for this earth.”

rode his horse late at night from the White House to be with his child in the cemetery. The fictional retelling of that sad event in George Saunders’s 2017 novel, “Lincoln in the Bardo,” makes this site the one people always want to see.

“Here you can be in the best zip code forever,” says Paul K. Williams, superintendent of Oak Hill. “One of our tombstones reads: ‘We finally found a place to park in Georgetown.’”

“Not everything here is so lighthearted,” he admits. “We had a great deal of controversy, plus three years of litigation, over Ben Bradlee’s mausoleum. It was quite a ruckus, and the legal bills were very expensive.”

One of the most arresting sights you see upon entering Oak Hill is the shiny, 10-foothigh, stainless-steel sculpture of tree branches, with little leaves bending toward the east as if blowing in the wind. Architect Arthur Cotton Moore commissioned it for himself and his wife. “Some find that site stunning. Others, well … not so much,” says Williams. “But I think it’ll be a design hallmark of the 21st century.”

Making Oak Hill your final address can be expensive. Space ranges from $30,000 to $750,000 and, Williams adds, “that’s just for the site. The rest — crypt, plinth, memorial stone, flying angels, whatever — plus the landscape — plants, trees, shrubs — all that is extra. Remember, I’m in the real estate business. And here, like any place else, it’s all about location, location, location.”

Laura Lavelle, office manager of Oak Hill Cemetery, admits as much. In her new book, “Images of America: Oak Hill Cemetery,” celebrating the 175-year-old graveyard, she writes that several families once buried at Mount Zion were removed and reburied in 1849, when Oak Hill first opened its gates and Georgetown resident Kitty Kelley has written several number-one New York Times best-sellers, including “The Family: The Real Story Behind the Bush Dynasty.” Her most recent books include “Capturing Camelot: Stanley Tretick’s Iconic Images of the Kennedys” and “Let Freedom Ring: Stanley Tretick’s Iconic Images of the March on Washington.” She serves on the board of BIO (Biographers International Organization) and Washington Independent Review of Books, where this review originally appeared.

Wracked with grief, the president frequently

Laura Lavelle, office manager of Oak Hill Cemetery, with her new book, “Images of America: Oak Hill Cemetery.” Gravesite of architect Arthur Cotton Moore. Courtesy Oak Hill Cemetery.