FEATURED IN MANSION GLOBAL AND BUSINESS INSIDER - Discover Wheat Row, a Federalist City Survivor Story: On a quiet section of 4th Street, SW, between N Street and O Street, stand four brick rowhouses known as Wheat Row—named after local tavern owner John Wheat. Built in 1794, they are among the oldest surviving residential homes in DC. Over time, Wheat Row has become notable for its architectural significance and as a symbol of the city’s history of ambition, speculation, decline, and rebirth. Built by developer James Greenleaf and likely designed by architect William Lovering, Wheat Row serves as an example of the Federalist style of the period—functional and modest, with refined detailing.
As far back as 1791, L’Enfant envisioned DC’s Southwest Waterfront as a residential and commercial hub. Its proximity to rivers and wharves made it attractive for merchants and the city’s elite, including families tied to George Washington. During the 19th and 20th centuries, the neighborhood shifted toward working-class housing, with many existing structures demolished to make way for multi-family homes and rental units in an effort to accommodate the city’s growing population. Wheat Row was one of the few spared.
The 21st century brought a multi-billion-dollar redevelopment plan, known as The Wharf, to the SW waterfront. Today the neighborhood is a vibrant destination of residences, offices, restaurants, theaters, and public spaces. Amidst all this, Wheat Row remains an anchor to history and the city’s founding spirit.
1317 4th Street, SW—one of the four remaining Wheat Row homes—is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The neighborhood was also featured on PBS’s If You Lived Here.
This beautifully maintained historic rowhouse exemplifies the Federal-style floor plan, characterized by uniform layouts with two main rooms on each floor, a side hall and staircase, soaring 12-foot ceilings, and vertically aligned fireplaces in every room—fireplaces being a defining feature and focal point of the era.
Spanning four finished above ground levels, with an elevator added in 2005, 1317 4th Street offers 4 bedrooms, 4 full bathrooms, and a powder room. Notable architectural details include seven fireplaces—one in each room—extensive millwork, ceiling medallions, hardwood floors and stairs, period hardware and windows, and a spacious kitchen. All bedrooms feature both an en-suite bathroom and a fireplace. The lower level can serve as a family room or fourth bedroom. A generous private patio extends the living space outdoors, ideal for entertaining or relaxing.
Blending 18th-century character with 21st-century amenities, the home is part of the Harbour Square Co-op, where residents enjoy shared access to a rooftop deck with spectacular views, a heated indoor pool, fitness center, large club room, gardens, and greenspace. All exterior maintenance, utilities, cable, and internet are included. No pet restrictions. Assigned garage parking is available for $155 per month, per space.
Don’t miss the chance to own a historic legacy property in a premier location!
NEW SLATE ROOF AND NEW WINDOWS (10 YRS). FIREPLACE REPAIR/CHIMNEY REBUILT (7 YRS). ALL FIREPLACES IN WORKING ORDER.