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A Rare Glimpse of Lafayette Square in 1919

Take a rare look at Lafayette Square as it appeared in 1919 with a photo and story from the Smithsonian and Ghosts of DC. Learn more about this unique scene and the Old Executive Office Building.
photograph of the Capitol under construction in 1858
Josh Gibson, Homestead Grays
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This is an odd scene, and one you would not see today. Below you’ll see a photo of Lafayette Square, taken from the Old Executive Office Building. The gates you see swung open are to West Executive Dr. (i.e., not a place you’ll ever find yourself today).

Lafayette Park seen from the Old Executive Office Building in 1919 (RU007355 - Martin A. Gruber Photograph Collection, 1919-1924, Smithsonian Institution Archives )
Lafayette Park seen from the Old Executive Office Building in 1919 (RU007355 – Martin A. Gruber Photograph Collection, 1919-1924, Smithsonian Institution Archives)

Thanks to the Smithsonian for having an incredible array of photos available on Flickr.

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