Monday, May 20th, 2013

Earliest Photograph of the White House

White House daguerreotype by John Plumbe, Jr. in 1846 (Library of Congress)

White House daguerreotype by John Plumbe, Jr. in 1846 (Library of Congress)

This is an amazing old photograph of the White House taken by John Plumbe, Jr. in 1846. The 11th President of the United States , James K. Polk, was the building’s occupant, having succeeded President John Tyler just the year prior. It’s a great one to stare at and study. It appears to be taken some time during the winter, as all the leaves are off the trees. You will also notice that the current top floor of the White House and the Truman Balcony are not there.

About Ghosts of DC

Ghosts of DC is a blog about the history of Washington, D.C. and its surroundings. We live in a great city, and it's important for everyone to know a little more about their communities, neighborhoods and city.
  • http://jottingswithjasmine.wordpress.com Tracy

    Thanks for sharing this picture!

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