Have you ever wondered what a bustling city square looked like a century ago? The Smithsonian recently shared a series of photographs that offer a glimpse of a bygone era in Washington D.C.’s Farragut Square. These images, taken in 1919, show a much different scene than what we see in the present day.

The contrast between the past and present is striking. In the photographs, we see a tranquil and pleasant Farragut Square, with neatly trimmed grass and trees providing shade on a sunny day. People can be seen strolling leisurely along the paths or sitting on benches, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. The occasional horse-drawn carriage or automobile can be seen passing by, but the pace of life is much slower than what we’re used to today.

Compare this to the Farragut Square of today, which is a bustling hub of activity, with office workers hurrying to and from nearby buildings, food trucks lining the streets, and the sounds of car horns and sirens filling the air. It’s hard to imagine that this same space was once a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.

Looking at these historical photographs, it’s easy to feel a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time. But it’s also important to remember that the city and its people were very different in 1919 than they are today. The early 20th century was a time of great change and upheaval, with new technologies and social movements transforming the world at a rapid pace.

Overall, these photographs offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, a reminder of how much things can change in just a century. By exploring the history of our cities and our communities, we can gain a deeper understanding of the forces that have shaped our world and the people who came before us.