Once the largest commercial market in Washington, Center Market
opened in 1801. The original buildings were replaced in 1872 by a building designed by
Adolph Cluss. The market was close to the
Washington City Canal,
railroads, and
streetcar lines. It was
demolished in 1931 and is the current site of the National Archives.
Vendors sold all manner of goods inside: produce, meat and fish, and staples. Because of its access to transportation, Center Market was able to sell goods that had been grown or produced far away; fast, dependable railroads and streetcars made it possible to offer fresh foods before they spoiled.