The Move to Pennsylvania Ave: 1910-1930

As wonderful as the photo on East Capitol Street is, it is not as impressive, or as momentous as one taken in 1914 of the new DONOHOE BUILDING, located at 314 Pennsylvania, Avenue, S.E. This too features John F. and his sons in front of the building. This time we also see his daughter, Katherine in the picture.

The strategic location of the new building on Pennsylvania Avenue opened the door to greater prominence, prestige, and presence in the Washington business and civic communities.

With the new location on Pennsylvania Avenue, the company expanded into three new areas of service; property management, insurance, and lending.

John F. Donohoe had retired in 1905, and passed the company management to his sons, Clarence and Milburn. With his encouragement, they had a vision to take the business to even greater heights. They began to make their mark in the wider community.

Clarence became particularly active in organizations like the Knights of Columbus, The Washington Board of Trade, Southeast Businessmen’s Association, National Capital Bank, Washington Real Estate Board, and many others.

There was much sadness in the family, and in the Washington business community upon the death of their father, in February of 1926. However, the stage was set for their vision to grow even more.