Did you know our greatest museum was funded by and named for an Englishman who never set foot in the United States? Read up on the origins of the Smithsonian and how it was born in our nation's capital.
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.
In January 1839, The Baltimore Sun discussed the possibility of retroceding Georgetown to Maryland. Read about it here, plus check out an 1835 map of Washington D.C. to get the full picture.
Explore the rich history behind the Washington Monument's construction, from its visionary inception in 1833 to the challenges and controversies it faced, culminating in the iconic obelisk we recognize today.
A look at Washington before its retrocession of the western portion to Virginia. Includes a 1835 map of Washington, Georgetown, Alexandria, and two counties. Source: Library of Congress.
Take a look back at Washington DC's history through a fascinating 1839 print. From lost sheep and cows on Pennsylvania Ave to the bustling metropolis we know today, this print offers a unique glimpse into the past of this iconic city.
Take a look at this fascinating old broadside condemning the sale and keeping of slaves in the District of Columbia during the 1835-36 petition campaign. Learn more about this powerful piece of abolitionist history and its arguments for freedom.
Learn the history of Chain Bridge Road in Washington, DC, and why it's named after a bridge that has no chains. Discover the story of the bridge's role in the Civil War and the floods of 1936 that led to its replacement.
In the 1830s, the Baltimore Sun was a prominent paper covering the daily happenings of life in Washington City. We came across an interesting piece from the Baltimore Sun correspondent in Washington, both a colorful description of life in the city, as well as a rather amusing observation.
