1930s

What was Washington, D.C. like in the 1930s? Take a look at our great posts with stories, people, photos, and history about the District from the thirties.

What Did Petworth Look Like in the 1930s?

This lovely old photo of Washington shows the Petworth neighorhood from the air in the 1930s. Any idea where this is in Petworth? Also, for those in Petworth who thumb their nose at the suburban dwellers...

Garfinckel’s Department Store in 1939

Take a look here at Garfinckel’s at 14th and F St. NW near the Treasury Building. The building still stands and is where The Hamilton is today.

1939 National Airport Photo Survey

National Airport in Arlington was opened in the summer of 1941, several months before Pearl Harbor. Below is a fascinating old image showing the aerial view of what would eventually become National Airport.

1939 View of 14th and Penn.

This amazing old photograph shows the intersection of 14th St. and Pennsylvania Ave., where the Willard Hotel sits. It has some amazing details so click OK it to see them.
Photograph of a View of the Entire Site for the National Archives Building, Washington, D.C.

View of National Archive Site Construction in 1932

This lovely old image shows the site of the National Archives early in the construction process. It was taken on July 1st, 1932.
National Archives building in 1933

Skeleton of National Archives Building in 1933

This is what the National Archives building looked like before it took shape in the 1930s. What a fascinating old photo. Source: National Archives
Temple Court off D Street and Delaware, SW, Washington, D. C.

What Did Southwest D.C. Used to Look Like?

This old photograph shows Southwest D.C. as it looked in the late 1930s and early 1940s. Source: New York Public Library I can’t really even orient myself to where this is today as the place has...
The nation's capital circa 1933. "View of Washington Monument at night in Reflecting Pool." 5x7 nitrate negative by Theodor Horydczak.

Stunning Washington Monument at Night in 1933

This beautiful old photograph of the Washington Monument, lit up at night, was taken in 1933. Click on it for some great details. Source: Shorpy
October 1935. Washington, D.C. "Capital Transit buses, F and 13th sts. NW." Just direct your feet to the sunny side of the street.

What Did Metro Center Look Like in 1935?

This fascinating old photograph shows Washington at 13th and F St. NW in 1935. This area today is Metro Center. Click on it for greater details. Source: Shorpy
1932 parade in Washington, D.C.

1932 Parade in Washington

Here are two photos showing a parade in the District. Source: Library of Congress Source: Library of Congress
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