Historical Significance of Swann-Daingerfield House

Located at 712 Prince St, Alexandria, VA 22314, the Swann-Daingerfield House stands as a testament to the rich history and notable individuals who have called it home. This private residence holds a distinguished place in the National Register of Historic Places, designated by the United States Department of the Interior. Additionally, it proudly bears the title of a Virginia Historic Landmark, recognized by the Virginia Board of Historic Resources.

Thomas Swann and Henry Daingerfield Legacy

The house carries the legacy of two prominent figures – Thomas Swann and Henry Daingerfield. Thomas Swann, who resided in the house from 1802 to 1833, served as the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia and later became the 33rd governor of Maryland. His son, Thomas Swann Jr., born in the house in 1809, left an indelible mark as the president of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, mayor of Baltimore, and a U.S. Representative.

Following Swann, Henry Daingerfield took ownership from 1833 to 1899. Daingerfield was a successful entrepreneur, landowner, and property holder. He played key roles as a director of the Marine Insurance Company, a board member of the Bank of the Potomac, and a councilman for the 3rd Ward of Alexandria. Daingerfield Island, owned by him, became a symbol of his close association with famed military figure Robert E. Lee.

Evolving Roles: St. Mary’s Academy to Carter Hall

The Swann-Daingerfield House underwent transformations, serving as St. Mary’s Academy from 1899 to 1943. This private Catholic preparatory school, run by the Sisters of the Holy Cross, catered to young ladies and girls. The association with St. Mary’s Church, the oldest Catholic parish in Virginia, added a spiritual dimension to its historical narrative.

In 1943, the property took on a new role as Carter Hall, becoming the Alexandria Hospital School of Nursing. Renamed in honor of Fanny Carter, the Director of Nursing from 1916 to 1930, the school played a crucial role in training nurses for World War II through the U.S. Nurse Cadet Program. Notably, Carter Hall broke ground by becoming the first nursing school in Virginia to admit male nursing students in 1958.

The restoration efforts in 1976 by Mr. & Mrs. Hugh E. Witt brought the house back to its original form, preserving its historical significance as a single-family residence. The Swann-Daingerfield House stands as a living chronicle of Alexandria’s past. Weaving together the stories of influential figures and diverse chapters in its history.