Historic Watch Box
Constructed in 1853, the Watch Box was the check-in location for all visitors to the Washington Navy Yard, including President Lincoln, who frequently traveled to the base during the Civil War. The Watch Box is one of the last places Lincoln made an official visit, the afternoon of his assassination.
In 1909, the structure was moved to the Naval Support Facility Indian Head, Maryland, where it served various uses for over 100 years. Recognized as a contributing element to the Washington Navy Yard Historic District, NAVFAC led efforts to return and restore it.
Transported by barge up the Potomac, the Watch Box was relocated near its original site, across from the Main Parade Ground. Our preservation team designed the reconstruction of its wrap-around porch using historic photos, recreating its 1853 appearance. Today, the Watch Box educates the public about the Navy Yard’s long history and the base’s role for over two centuries.
Awards
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1Palladio Design Award, Traditional Building
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2DC Historic Preservation Office and DC Preservation League Award for Excellence, Historic Preservation
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3AIA DC Award of Excellence, Historic Resources
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4Maryland Historical Trust Preservation Award
The well-traveled Watch Box
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