PolicyBrief
S.RES. 284
119th CongressJun 17th 2025
A resolution designating June 10, 2025, as "DACOR Bacon House Bicentennial Day".
SENATE PASSED

This resolution designates June 10, 2025, as "DACOR Bacon House Bicentennial Day" to honor the historic building's deep ties to American diplomacy, law, and culture.

Sheldon Whitehouse
D

Sheldon Whitehouse

Senator

RI

LEGISLATION

Congress Designates June 10, 2025, as 'DACOR Bacon House Bicentennial Day'

This resolution is a pure history buff move by Congress, setting aside a specific date to honor a single, very old building in Washington, D.C. Specifically, it designates June 10, 2025, as “DACOR Bacon House Bicentennial Day,” celebrating the 200th anniversary of the DACOR Bacon House.

The House That History Built

Unlike most bills we cover, this one won't change your taxes, your commute, or your healthcare premiums. It's entirely commemorative, acting as a detailed historical plaque put into the legislative record. The resolution spends most of its text meticulously tracing the house’s journey, starting with the land's original inhabitants, the Anacostian people, and moving through early American figures like Tobias Lear V, who was George Washington’s personal secretary. It’s essentially a very long “Happy Birthday” card from the Senate to a piece of real estate.

From Chief Justices to Russian Diplomats

The resolution highlights the impressive roster of residents and visitors the house has hosted over two centuries. Think of it as a historical Airbnb with a very exclusive guest list. Past tenants include Chief Justice John Marshall, who boarded there, and William Thomas Carroll, who owned the house and was the one who handed Abraham Lincoln the Bible for his first inauguration. It even served briefly as the official residence for the Russian Imperial Minister in the 1870s, showcasing its deep ties to international diplomacy, which is fitting since it’s now the headquarters for DACOR (Diplomatic and Consular Officers, Retired).

Applauding the Preservation Crew

Beyond the history lesson, the resolution serves to officially applaud the people who have kept the house standing and relevant. It specifically thanks the DACOR Bacon House Foundation and the DACOR organization for their decades of preservation work. For those of us who appreciate old architecture and the effort it takes to maintain it—especially in a city where land is constantly being redeveloped—this is Congress giving a formal nod to the value of historical preservation. The main takeaway here is simple: if you’re into U.S. history or diplomacy, mark your calendar for June 10, 2025. Otherwise, you can go back to worrying about gas prices, secure in the knowledge that this resolution does not involve any new regulations or spending.