The Washington Navy Yard holds the distinction of being the oldest Navy installation in the country! George Washington himself set aside land along the Anacostia River for the installation, which was activated in 1799. The Yard's primary function was shipbuilding and shiplifting, but by the 1850s, its focus shifted almost entirely to the production of naval artillery. In 1945, it was named the Naval Gun Factory, and the weapons created here were reportedly used in every war in which the U.S. fought until the 1960s. Eventually, ordnance production was phased out, and by 1964 the installation was redesignated as the Washington Navy Yard.

 

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Today, the Navy Yard is known as the "Quarterdeck of the Navy" and is a ceremonial gateway to the nation's capital. It is also home to the headquarters for Naval District Washington, which provides support activities for the Naval Support Facility Naval Research Laboratory, Naval Support Facility Suitland, Naval Support Facility Naval Observatory, Naval Support Facility Arlington, and Naval Support Facility Carderock.

 

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In 2008, the Navy Yard acquired a new neighbor when Nationals Park was constructed as the new home for the Washington Nationals professional baseball team. This MLB team has helped the area tremendously by attracting restaurants, grocers, parks, and public-use amenities to the Southeast Riverfront. Two fantastic parks, Yards Park and Capitol Park are right on the river and are constantly abuzz with activity. The Eastern Market is a trendy food and arts market in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, and it lies only a mile north of the Navy Yard.

 

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Military housing is offered at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, located just "East of the River," but ample off-post accommodation is also available. However, if ever there's a reason to live in the District, this is probably the most ideal. Getting to and from the Navy Yard is easy, with abundant public transit options. If you crave city living and are willing to sacrifice square footage and downsize to one car—this is your chance! If not, there are many feasible options farther from the city in Virginia and Maryland that offer a more suburban lifestyle but with a longer commute.

 

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KEY CONTACTS

 

 

 

Fleet and Family Support Center

 

1411 Parsons Ave. SE, Bldg. 101

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Washington, DC 20374

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PH: (202) 685-0229

 

 

 

Housing Service Center

 

1205 Warrington Ave. SE, Bldg. 2

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Washington, DC 20374

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PH: (202) 433-5912

 

 

 

School Liaison Office

 

2691 Mitscher Road SW

 

Washington, DC 20032

 

PH: (202) 433-2566

 

 

 

Most installation services will be available Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm. As always, call first to confirm hours and availability of services.

 

​Helpful hint: Contact these offices early in the week during the morning time.