The builder was a syndicate headed by James Greenleaf, an early land speculator in the District of Columbia.

[1] In March 1796, Thomas Law moved into the house after his marriage to Martha Washington's eldest granddaughter, Eliza Parke Custis.

[2] They did not stay long, as by the summer of 1796 they have moved to their home on the west side of New Jersey Avenue north of C Street[3] Thomas Law was the son of Edmund Law, the Bishop of Carlisle.

Among his brothers were: Thomas Law spent many years in India, where he made a fortune in trade.

[4] He was one of Washington's wealthiest citizens and was active, although not successful, in business enterprises.