Monday, January 7, 2008

Rule

Home Rule and Go, Mama, Go!--
Two excellent home accessory and gift stores on 14th and S Streets NW


When I moved to Washington five years ago, there wasn't a lot that was upscale on 14th Street, except for these two stores--Go, Mama, Go! and Home Rule. Today, they are part of the anchor stores on 14th and S Streets that sort of got the ball rolling in revitalizing that part of downtown.

In addition to these two great shops, there's Pop, Pulp, and Garden District. As the years have gone by, more and more upscale retailers have moved in. And, in March of this year, the District will finally get a Target in Columbia Heights--about two miles north of 14th and S. While the big box stores are a welcome convenience for newer, more-accustomed-to-easy-access District residents, they also signal the demise of the corner Mom & Pop groceries, hardware, and smaller, specialized retail vendors.

One thing to note: Home Rule is named for the ongoing movement on the part of District residents to fully govern themselves and to have equal representation in Congress. As it stands now, Congress has oversight for Washington, D.C., and the Constitution prohibits us from having representation on the Hill.

Photo copyright: D.C. Confidential, 1/08

4 comments:

Lucky Dip Lisa said...

I love that building. It reminds me of some of the older shops in a town I used to live in. They had the lovely window detail and concrete detailing by the roof line as well. My husband painted one once and it took a long time to cut it all in but worth it to see an old building beautifully restored. Nice to see these ones looking so well cared for. We have a similar problem with big stores bringing around the demise of the smaller ones that have been around for generations. It's sad to see the stories end for some of these business's but in the end the power of the dollar usually wins over the sentiment of the old days.
Thanks for sharing!

Janet Kincaid said...

Lisa: Is that the truth? And a sad one at that, eh? I suppose the two consolations I can take from the arrival of Target are: it will create jobs and it isn't Wal-Mart. Still, not a lot of comfort in either of those.

Lara said...

great buildings, and great names for the shops!

Lara said...

Manner shop: next to Stephansdom (as featured in my photo). As you look to the Cathedral, to the left. If you come to Vienna this year, please let me know!