Exploring the 1865 Panoramic View of Washington
Take a journey back in time and explore the 1865 panoramic view of Washington DC. See the buildings, including the patent office, in this amazing photograph.
1860s
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.
The Library of Congress Inside the Capitol Building in 1866
Before the Library of Congress moved to its own building in 1897, it occupied a room inside the Capitol. This 1866 photograph shows the interior of that original space, with its cast-iron shelving and gallery.
The Story of William Orton Williams and Walter Gibson “Gip” Peter: Two Relatives of Robert E. Lee Who Were Hanged as Spies
Two cousins from Tudor Place, related by family to Robert E. Lee, were hanged as Confederate spies at Fort Granger in 1863.
A Glimpse of History: An Old Photograph of F Street’s General Post Office in the 1860s
Take a look back in time with this old photograph of the General Post Office on F Street in Washington, DC during the 1860s. Glimpse a piece of history and see what DC looked like over 150 years ago!
What Was Abe Lincoln Thinking? Examining the Odd Two to One Ratio of His 1865 Inauguration Ball Invitation
Explore the mystery behind Abe Lincoln’s 1865 Inauguration Ball invitation, which stipulated a two to one ratio of ladies to gentlemen. Was he trying to tip the scales in favor of his male advisors?
The Washington Arsenal Explosion: A Deadly Day in the Capital
On June 17th, 1864, an explosion rocked the Washington Arsenal in the nation’s capital. 19 women and girls were killed in the tragedy, and the victims were commemorated with a monument still standing today. Learn the story of the Washington Arsenal explosion.
A Stunning Bird’s Eye View of Alexandria, VA in 1863
Take a glimpse at a stunning bird’s eye view of Alexandria, VA from 1863, courtesy of the Library of Congress. It’s a beautiful sight to behold
Exploring History with an 1862 Drawing of Fort Pennsylvania at Tennallytown
Discover a fascinating piece of history with this 1862 drawing of Fort Pennsylvania at Tennallytown during the Civil War. Learn more about this important fort from the perspective of the time.
Explore Civil War Photographs of Fort Totten in Washington, DC
Take a look at the Civil War history of Fort Totten in Washington, DC with these incredible photos. See the panoramic view from 1863, the interior of the fort, and a 100 pound Parrott gun. Explore the past with us!