18 August

Washington Fine Properties Announces Notable Sale of Under Oak: The Historic Estate of Late Philanthropist Ruth H. Buchanan

Washington, D.C. – August 7, 2026 – Washington Fine Properties is proud to announce the sale of the “Under Oak” estate at 4220 Nebraska Avenue NW, the former residence of Philanthropist and Dow Chemical Heiress Ruth H. Buchanan. This significant sale closed for $8,750,000.

Born in 1918, Ruth Buchanan was a philanthropist, the granddaughter of the founder of Dow Chemical Company Herbert Henry Dow and the wife of Wiley T. Buchanan Jr., who served as Chief of Protocol and Ambassador to Luxembourg under President Eisenhower and Ambassador to Austria under President Ford. An avid and exceptional hostess, Ruth Buchanan welcomed diplomats, political figures, and prominent guests to Under Oak, where she hosted elegant white-tie diplomatic parties as well as a variety of social and political gatherings. Some of these experiences were noted in Mr. Buchanan’s 1964 book, “Red Carpet at the White House.”

Located near American University in the Tenleytown neighborhood, Under Oak is known as one of Washington D.C.’s great estates. Originally built in 1924, the French Norman Revival-style residence was featured in American Architect’s 1924 May issue and became the Buchanan’s home in 1941. Known for its beautiful gardens, designed by landscape architect Rose Greely, and the historic landmark oak tree that resided on its grounds, the estate received the name “Under Oak”. The impressive estate resides on 2.27 acres, offering 9,910 square feet of living space and hardwood interiors.

Sassy Jacobs and Ben Roth of Roth Team of Washington Fine Properties represented the seller in the sale of this magnificent residence.

“It's been a long journey to this moment, and while I'm immensely grateful for the opportunity to sell such a beloved and cherished home, it's bittersweet to say goodbye to a residence that holds such a significant place in D.C. history," said Sassy Jacobs. “I know the new stewards truly appreciate the rich history of this home and will take excellent care of it.”

For more information regarding this remarkable sale, please contact:

Sassy Jacobs – Selling Agent Ben Roth – Selling Agent

Washington Fine Properties Washington Fine Properties

Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Phone: 202-276-5449 Phone: 202-465-9636

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Washington Fine Properties (WFP) is recognized worldwide as one of the most successful carriage–trade real estate firms in the United States. More than one hundred of the most powerful agents in the Nation’s Capital Region combine the highest level of expertise and professionalism to provide unequalled brokerage services to both buyers and sellers. Washington Fine Properties’ average sale price is number one in the Capital Region. WFP has also achieved the highest average sales volume per agent in the Capital region at $14M. Visit WFP online at www.wfp.com.

Washington Fine Properties Announces Notable Sale of Under Oak: The Historic Estate of Late Philanthropist Ruth H. Buchanan

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