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St Johns Church is located on the corner of 16th & H Streets NW, kiddy corner from the White House. Since 1816, every president since James Madison has worshiped here. Madison selected Pew 54 and, ever since, this spot has been set aside for the United States president. The original design, by architect Benjamin Latrobe, was a simple classical style in the form of a Greek cross. The little church was enlarged in 1820 & a Roman Doric Portico was added. The subsequent addition of a triple-tiered steeple significantly altered the original plan. However, the church, with its yellow stuccoed façade & 27 stunning memorial windows, is still recognizable & remains a living parish in the heart of the city. The church, along with the parish house next door, are on the national register of historic places. The 2nd Empire parish house (1842), on the right, was Ashburn House, the former British Embassy, at one time. For more information: http://www.stjohns-dc.org/
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