Sentimental local folklore preserved the Old Stone House from being demolished, unlike many colonial homes in the area that were replaced by redevelopment.

The building is considered part of the Rock Creek Parkway urban natural area and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

In 1764, Christopher and Rachel Layman bought Lot Three, a piece of land in Georgetown's commercial district.

[3] Following the American Revolutionary War, government officials carved out land from Virginia and Maryland to create as the new nation's capital.

Pierre (Peter) Charles L'Enfant, appointed by President George Washington to design the city layout, arrived in Georgetown on March 9, 1791, and began his work.

This folklore is why the house was never demolished, and for many years a sign hung over the front door which said, "George Washington's Headquarters."

The exterior of the house, constructed of blue granite and fieldstone, was quarried from a location 2 miles (3 km) away near the Potomac River.

The kitchen walls and fireplace contain irregular stones that were stacked and affixed with a mortar consisting of sand, lime, ash, and water.

[3] The second-floor architecture differs significantly from the first floor since Chew could afford higher quality building material.

In the dining room, a dumbwaiter concealed by recessed pine cabinetry delivered food from the kitchen below.

A clock believed to have been made by John Suter Jr., located in the dining room, is the only original piece of furniture left in the house.

The rarity of closets was largely due to the lower number of clothes owned by most people of the time.

[10] Visitors are greeted by staff who tell the history of one of the oldest structures in Washington, D.C.[7] The kitchen, parlor and bedrooms, furnished as they would have been in the late 18th century, are open for viewing.

A gift shop operated by Eastern National is located inside the front room of the house.

The garden is used for simple wedding ceremonies and as an area for locals and tourists to rest while shopping or a lunch break.