Washington spent most of the 1860s as a city at war. The Capitol dome was still under construction when the fighting started, and the city filled with soldiers, contraband camps, and field hospitals. Lincoln was shot at Ford’s Theatre in April 1865. These are 139 stories from the decade that defined the District.
Explore the 1861 Civil War map of Arlington, a reconnaissance map created by Benjamin Church. View the unusual orientation of the map, with north being down and to the right. Click here to view a larger version and study it.
Take a look back in time to 1863 and explore Alexander Gardner’s Photographic Gallery in Washington, D.C. with this amazing old photo. Click the image for a detailed version.
Take a look back at the history of the Treasury Building in Washington, D.C. with this series of photos showing its construction in the 1860s. Explore the progress and final result of the building’s design and architecture.
Stunning old image of the Treasury building during the Civil War.
Take a step back in time and explore a Civil War-era photo of Independence Ave. This incredible photo showcases the Smithsonian Institution Building and the U.S. Capitol dome, taken before the 1865 fire
This photograph was taken in April 1865, right around the time of President Lincoln’s assassination. You can see the unpaved roads of Maine Ave, SW and the Capitol Building in the background. Compare this to the view today via Google Street View!
Take a look at the program from April 14, 1865 at Ford’s Theater – the night President Lincoln was assassinated. You can see the characters, actors and the ticket prices for the show. Incredible to think of what that audience experienced that night.
The Library of Congress has a large collection of graphic arts created over the course of two centuries. They depict famous locations and subjects. There are a large number dedicated to capturing the assassination and aftermath of President Lincoln. Below are an assortment, with descriptions. The text below this work says, “President Lincoln’s Last Reception, … Read more
This week marks the 152nd anniversary of the D.C. Emancipation Act, which ended slavery in the District of Columbia and ultimately freed almost 3,000 slaves in Washington. Celebrate with a parade and other events, and read the transcript of the bill here.
