Originally named for Columbian College (now George Washington University), Columbia Heights was once a horse track and farmland. In the late 19th century, Columbia Heights transformed into an upscale suburban neighborhood, which was home to federal workers and military officers. By 1904, the federal government had purchased land to develop Meridian Hill Park, and four streetcar lines connected this community to downtown.
By the early 20th century, the community transformed again with the construction of multi-family apartment buildings. The area’s increased density supported the founding of The Tivoli Theatre in 1924 to meet the entertainment needs of this growing neighborhood. African Americans began moving to Columbia Heights from the adjacent U Street and Shaw neighborhoods during this period. The legendary Duke Ellington called Columbia Heights home in the 1920s. Although spared direct damage, The Tivoli Theatre fell into disrepair as the surrounding neighborhood deteriorated after the 1968 riots.
The Tivoli closed in 1976 and only reopened in 2005 after a five-year renovation. It was redeveloped as a mixed-use property featuring retail, office and performance art spaces. CityFirst’s support of $14.4 million was critical to the reemergence of this cultural and commercial hub in Columbia Heights.