Watering Holes of Washington: Capitol Hill History Pub Tour (House Side) 

August 4, 2010  6-8:30 p.m.

On a great summer evening a crowd of 20+ history buffs gathered on Capitol Hill for the U.S. Capitol Historical Society’s third Historic Pub Tour event. The night included stops at three House Side bars and animated commentary from the Society’s illustrious tour guide Steve Livengood. A fixture on the Hill since 1962, Steve shared interesting stories and facts he’s discovered during his years working on Capitol Hill.

The first stop on the historic pub tour was the famous Hawk ‘n’ Dove. Gathered in a private downstairs room, the crowd heard stories about the history of the pub from both Steve and Hawk ‘n’ Dove manager Paul Meagher. While the make-up of regulars drawn to the Hawk ‘n’ Dove has changed over the years, Paul remarks the only change to the pub itself since its 1967 opening has been the addition of flat-screen TVs! Before moving onto the second stop on the tour, six Hawk ‘n’ Dove glasses were raffled off to lucky winners.

Just up Pennsylvania Avenue, the next bar visited was the Capitol Lounge. Situated in the basement lounge area, Steve Livengood spoke of the “Jenkins Hill” misnomer Pierre L’Enfant initially gave to Capitol Hill. As Steve explained, the Hill and the surrounding land were actually owned by the powerful Carroll family. Participants on the tour had the opportunity to ask questions and share some of their own experiences on the Hill. At the end of the visit, the Capitol Lounge generously provided each guest with a bag bearing the pub’s logo.

The tour concluded at Tortilla Coast on First Street just passed the Republican National Committee building. While the pub itself may not be steeped in political history, Steve shared a host of interesting anecdotes about the surrounding area. Conversation continued over a delicious Mexican meal. Upon leaving, each guest received a Tortilla Coast hat and glass.

Founded as a private, nonpartisan, and nonprofit educational organization in 1962, and chartered by Congress in 1978, the United States Capitol Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and enhancing the Capitol’s history, art, architecture, and heritage, as well as promoting a heightened understanding and appreciation for the Capitol, Congress and the legislative process.