Willard Hotel and the origin of the word 'lobbyist'

The Willard Hotel, opened in its current location in the mid-19th century, has long served as a meeting place for politicians and presidents due to its proximity to the White House. The hotel is widely credited in historical accounts with helping popularize the term 'lobbyist' because people seeking favors or meetings with politicians would wait in the Willard's lobby to intercept them. The Willard's role in social and political life in Washington is well documented and the hotel remains an active historic landmark.