In 1949, Washington opened its first elevated freeway—but the real story is the interracial engineering duo behind it. Discover how Archie Alexander and Maurice Repass built the Whitehurst Freeway and quietly broke barriers in Jim Crow-era America.
Is the Goatman real? Dive into Maryland’s scariest legend—from Bowie’s backroads to Crybaby Bridge. Discover the truth behind the half-man, half-goat myth.
Explore the historic use of electric lights during President Woodrow Wilson's 1913 inauguration and what it symbolized for American progress and modernity. Learn how this momentous event marked a new era of hope and optimism, as well as the challenges that lay ahead for the country and the world.
The Civil War reached the outer edges of Washington in 1864. It was so close that President Lincoln rode near the front lines of Fort Stevens and came under fire.
Remember the days of Griffith Stadium? Learn about the demise of this D.C. landmark, which was the site of three World Series, two All-Star games, and eight U.S. Presidents. Read the sad article from the Washington Post and watch a YouTube video to learn more.
Take a peek into the past with this old map of Georgetown from 1830. You'll notice the street names have since changed - Wisconsin Ave. was High St. and M St. was Bridge St. - and see the east-west numbered streets. Source: Library of Congress.
Take a look back at Washington, D.C. in 1942 during the dark early days of World War II. This photo, taken on a Sunday in July, shows people relaxing along the Tidal Basin near the Jefferson Memorial. See what else is in the background!
Take a look back in time with this beautiful old photo showing the construction of Memorial Bridge looking from D.C. towards Arlington National Cemetery. The photo is dated May 15th, 1928. Source: Flickr user Tim Evanson.
Take a look at this incredible 1922 photo of Washington, D.C. taken from the air. Click on the image for a larger version and explore the city's history up close!
Take a look at the Washington Directory from 1822 and explore the regular people living in the city, including our fifth president, James Monroe. See the page that's really interesting!
What is today Cleveland Park was an area for well-off Washingtonians to build their summer cottages. It was far enough away from swampy hot downtown and elevated to provide some breezy relief.
Get a glimpse into the past with this 1917 photo of the British Embassy in Washington DC. See what the old embassy looks like today with a Google Map of the same intersection.
Take a look back at the 1924 Washington Senators with this historic photo from the Library of Congress. Learn more about the team's history with the Ghosts of DC.
