The Powerhouse was constructed in 1917 by the D.C. Paper Manufacturing Company. The three-bay brick-and-steel structure was built to serve as the power house for the paper company. The construction of the Powerhouse was part of a multi-year expansion project begun by the Company in 1915. By 1919, the paper company was using a newer power house, located on the Georgetown waterfront. The original Powerhouse was purchased by the Capitol Traction Company, and used as a store room for the streetcar system.
