Van Ness Mausoleum

The Van Ness Mausoleum was designed by George Hadfield. It is said to be a copy of the Temple of Vesta in Rome. It was constructed in 1833, after the architect's death in 1826, initially for the wife of John Peter Van Ness who died in 1832. The mausoleum was originally on H Street, on the grounds of the orphan asylum founded by Mrs. Van Ness. Built at an estimated cost of $34,000 with space for 18, it ultimately held 7, including John Peter Van N... more

The Van Ness Mausoleum was designed by George Hadfield. It is said to be a copy of the Temple of Vesta in Rome. It was constructed in 1833, after the architect's death in 1826, initially for the wife of John Peter Van Ness who died in 1832. The mausoleum was originally on H Street, on the grounds of the orphan asylum founded by Mrs. Van Ness. Built at an estimated cost of $34,000 with space for 18, it ultimately held 7, including John Peter Van Ness, who was interred inside in 1847. The mausoleum was moved by Col. W. H. Philip to Oak Hill Cemetery in 1872. The structure was put on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. less