The 1877 Drawing of Proposed Capitol Modifications
In 1877 a 23-year-old draftsman named Richard Siebert filed a sweeping redesign of the U.S. Capitol with the Copyright Office. Then he vanished.
1870s
The 1870s were Washington’s great reconstruction decade, driven almost entirely by the ambitions of Alexander “Boss” Shepherd, the city’s territorial governor. Shepherd paved the streets, installed gas lights, and planted trees across the city, essentially inventing the modern Washington streetscape. These posts explore the decade that rebuilt the capital.
Why Is It Named LeDroit Park? The Misspelled Name Behind DC’s Historic Neighborhood
Established in 1873, LeDroit Park was one of the first suburbs of Washington, DC. Its name honors a family member of founder Amzi Barber.
Bird’s-Eye View of the Capitol and Washington, D.C. from 1872
An 1872 bird’s-eye view of the Capitol and Washington, D.C.
Exploring an 1874 Map of Mt. Pleasant and Columbia Heights Before the Streets Were Renamed
Take a look at a map of Mt. Pleasant and Columbia Heights from 1874, before the streets were renamed in the early 20th century. See the lot numbers, building footprints, and more
Exploring Georgetown’s Past: An 1874 Map of the City with Old Street Names
Take a journey back in time and explore Georgetown’s past with this 1874 map of the city featuring the old street names. Check it out now!
Evolution of Carlin Springs Subdivision in Alexandria (Now Arlington County)
Take a look at the evolution of Carlin Springs Subdivision in Alexandria, now Arlington County. See a map from 1890 and compare it to a map from today. Visit the Library of Congress to learn more.
Which President Got a Speeding Ticket on a Horse?
In 1866, Washington police officer William West stopped President Ulysses Grant for driving his horse too fast near the White House, confiscated the buggy, and sent the president home on foot.
What the Library of Congress Could Have Looked Like: Leon Beaver’s Design from 1873
Take a look at the proposed design for the Library of Congress by Leon Beaver in 1873. Check out some of his drawings to see what the Library of Congress could have looked like!
The Colorful Story of Morris Connors and the Lost Neighborhood of Swampoodle
Learn the colorful story of Morris Connors, a notorious Swampoodle thief and rough, as we explore the lost neighborhood of Swampoodle. We uncovered the article in The Washington Post, printed on October 20th, 1879. Come along on this journey of historical context and facts!