Blagden Alley
Dwellings and businesses were first formed within DC's alleys after the Civil War. Washington, DC, received a wave of new inhabitants. This boom led to housing shortages, thus structures and neighborhoods were formed where there was available space. Blagden Alley is one of a few remaining examples of such alleys in the District. According to Cultural Tourism DC: "From the outside... alley communities were seen as unsanitary and dangerous. Most were torn down by 1955 after the Alley Dwelling Elimination Act was implemented by Congress in 1934."
Dwellings and businesses were first formed within DC's alleys after the Civil War. Washington, DC, received a wave of new inhabitants. This boom led to housing shortages, thus structures and neighborhoods were formed where there was available space. Blagden Alley is one of a few remaining examples of such alleys in the District. According to Cultural Tourism DC: "From the outside... alley communities were seen as unsanitary and dangerous. Most were torn down by 1955 after the Alley Dwelling Elimination Act was implemented by Congress in 1934."
A far cry from its humble roots, the Blagden Alley is now a desirable place for residents and businesses alike. Two successful businesses are seen in the Google Maps street view below. La Colombe is a high end roaster and comfortable coffee shop renovated in such a way as to highlight the original building's features. Rogue 24 is a hip fusion eatery, impeccably designed.
Learn more about the Blagden Alley area in my commentary piece, Bringing Alleys Back to Life.