Why Is It Named Gaithersburg?
Gaithersburg started out as “Log Town” in 1765. Benjamin Gaither built a house on the land in 1802 after inheriting it from his father-in-law.
1850s
The 1850s found Washington in the grip of the slavery debate that would soon tear the nation apart. Construction on the Washington Monument stalled when the Know-Nothing party seized the project, and the decade ended with the country barreling toward secession. These posts capture a city on the edge of crisis.
What Did K Street Look Like in 1850?
There was a time when Washington, even the city itself, was very rural. Imagine livestock roaming the streets, unpaved roads, and small farms in the District.
A Rare Look at Washington from the Late 1840s or 1850s by Augustus Köllner
A rare painting of Washington from the late 1840s or 1850s, done by Augustus Köllner, has been uncovered. The view is from an angle south of the Capitol, looking northwest. See the beautiful watercolor painting at the Library of Congress.
GoDCers Love Maps: Check Out Matt’s Vintage DC Maps On Etsy!
GoDCers love maps and Matt on Etsy has some amazing vintage DC maps for sale! Check out his 1851, 1819, and 1846 maps of DC to hang on your wall, or get one of these as the perfect Christmas present!
Why Is It Named Bloomingdale? The $600 Estate Behind DC’s Trendiest Neighborhood
Bloomingdale is not named after the department store. George Beale, a hero of the War of 1812, bought a 10-acre estate here for just $600 in 1823.
Philemon Herbert: The Colorful Life and Controversial Legacy of a 19th-Century California Congressman
Discover the intriguing story of Philemon T. Herbert, a notorious figure in 1850s California politics. From his tumultuous time in Congress to a shocking incident at a Washington hotel, explore the scandalous life and dramatic downfall of Philemon Herbert.
An Isometrical View of the White House and Surrounding Area in the 1850s
Take a look at an isometrical view of the White House and the surrounding area in the 1850s. This unique view was found in the Library of Congress archives and was done in 1984.
Discovering an Amazing Old Map of Washington, D.C. from 1851
Check out this amazing 1851 map of Washington, D.C.! I found this gem on the Library of Congress’ website. Sign up for our updates and follow us on Facebook for more discoveries from Ghosts of DC.
John Carroll Brent’s Appeal for Funds to Complete the Washington Monument in 1854
In 1854, John Carroll Brent called upon Americans to donate funds to complete the Washington Monument with the upcoming Fourth of July celebrations. Learn more about this failed attempt and the history of the monument.