Statement of Significance (as of designation - May 15, 1975):
From 1856 to 1867, this simple clapboard structure was the home of John Mercer Lanston (1829-1897), the man who became the first Black American elected to public office when he was elected township clerk in 1855. He later served in the Freedman's Bureau and was first dean of the Howard University Law School, U.S. Representative from Virginia (1890-91), and Minister to Haiti.

Condition:
No response to inquiry in 2004.

The College is working with the tenants of the house to protect and preserve it.