02/24/2026
The chains suspended at Dōgon's entry are more than a design detail. They are a tribute rooted in heritage and the power of legacy.
Before Washington, D.C. became the nation’s capital, it was carefully measured and mapped by Benjamin Banneker, a self-taught mathematician, astronomer, and surveyor whose brilliance helped shape the city we call home.
Among the tools used during early land surveying were Gunter’s chains - measuring chains made of 100 links that allowed surveyors to chart land with remarkable accuracy. With tools like these, Banneker helped define the boundaries of the capital, laying the groundwork for generations to come.
Today, we honor that spirit of knowledge, craftsmanship, and African heritage at Dōgon. From the inspiration of the Dogon people’s astronomical wisdom to the foundations of Washington itself, our story is one of connection. Past, present, and future.
History lives here.
📷: Naho Kubota
