Our Historic Buildings
The Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream is located in five historic buildings in the heart of Washington, D.C., just steps from the White House and the U.S. Treasury.
These landmark structures were originally home to Riggs Bank, famously known as “The Bank of Presidents,” and the American Security and Trust Company. On the back of the $10 bill for over 75 years, they were positioned at the intersection of power and aspiration for over a century of history, financial innovation, and civic leadership. Explore the legacy of our buildings: their iconic architecture and design, the historic and modern construction efforts that have shaped them, and the people—visionaries, craftsmen, and leaders—who made it all possible.
Restore, Reuse, Repurpose
Restoring these buildings isn’t just about preserving the past—it’s about opening the door to what’s next. Through over a decade of renovation, we’ve honored its history, its details, and its deep sense of place. This is where the American Dream comes alive — welcoming conversation, sparking new ideas, and bringing people together.
Architectural Details
Our dedicated team has put in countless hours to meticulously restore and recreate the beautiful features of the original buildings. By honoring the original building features, we hope to pay respect to the original space while creating an ideal destination for a 21st century cultural institution.
This historic Riggs Bank ceiling detail shows the meticulous restoration efforts.
Secrets in the Walls
Knocking through the walls of 100-plus-year-old buildings has led us to some surprising and fascinating discoveries of objects and artifacts that have been left behind the walls over the years. Click on the pictures below to explore our findings.
Unearthing a former foundation
A foiled advertisement
A hidden note by Foreman John Kernekin, 1953
A hidden note by Foreman Ray Gammon, 1966
Abandoned windows
Advertising Riggs Bank
A maker's mark
The original vault
Leaving his mark
Rooms under the sidewalk
1970s name cards
1953 newspaper