 A National Park Service spokesperson reported that surveys revealed cracks near the top of the Washington Monument , the world 's tallest stone structure , which was closed indefinitely . The earthquake damaged three of the four pinnacles ( corner spires ) on the central tower of the Washington National Cathedral , cracked some of its flying buttresses , and caused additional damage . As the cathedral 's insurance policy did not cover earthquake damage , cathedral officials stated that they would need to raise millions of dollars to fully evaluate the damage and to stabilize and repair its limestone exterior . The Smithsonian Castle incurred damage to five decorative turrets , and fifty jars of preserved specimens fell from shelves at the Smithsonian 's National Museum of Natural History . The Embassy of Ecuador suffered structural damage , including three collapsed chimneys and cracked internal walls . The Treasury Building suffered minor damage to exterior railings , some of which fell to the ground and caused closure of a sidewalk . Fire department officials in Washington reported numerous minor injuries as a result of the earthquake . 
