Erected in 1881, this severe brick edifice with an elaborate roof design is Dupont Circle's oldest surviving mansion. It was built as the residence of James G. Blaine, cofounder of the Republican Party, member of Congress, Secretary of State and unsuccessful Republican candidate in the 1884 presidential election. Over the years the building's interior and exterior have deteriorated considerably. The building is now flanked on its P Street side by a gloomy row of one-storey shops.