National Register of Historic Places Nomination for the Old Korean Legation Building

Abstract

The Korean Legation building at 1500 13th Street Northwest, Washington, D.C., once served as a nexus of early U.S. and Korean diplomacy. Nestled among buildings lining Logan Circle, the South Korean flag and a small entrance plaque are the only visible hints to the building’s complex heritage. The Korean Legation building is worthy of nomination to the National Register of Historic Places because of its significance regarding the early development of international relations between the U.S. and Korea. This edifice is a remarkable, tangible link to the early history of Koreans in the U.S., given that historical discrimination and xenophobia of individuals, systems, and the state resulted in the loss of historical landscapes associated with many marginalized communities. Only within the last few decades has the preservation field begun to recognize more sites historically relevant to marginalized communities and people of color and this nomination furthers that important work. A short essay will conclude the final project document to provide insight into the nomination research and writing process with specific emphasis on challenges and opportunities in producing National Register nominations for sites associated with underrepresented and marginalized communities. This can also serve as a guide or resource for future students undertaking a National Register nomination for the first time.