Washington’s built environment is the product of grand ambitions, fierce debates, and brilliant (and sometimes terrible) ideas across more than two centuries. These posts dig into the buildings, architects, and design decisions that shaped the city we know today.
Check out this incredible old map of Washington, DC from 1887. See how the city and its environs looked over 130 years ago and explore the points of interest within a 20 mile radius of the Capitol.
1523 31st Street NW in Georgetown was built in August 1885 for Navy engineer Harrie Webster, who later became a Rear Admiral.
Learn about the fascinating history of Blodgett’s Hotel in Washington, D.C., from its beginnings in 1793 to its destruction by fire in 1836. Plus, check out the awesome work of local architectural historian Stephen Hansen.
Remember this super ugly Giant on Wisconsin Ave. near the Cathedral? It’s soon going to be the new Cathedral Commons! This old photo was taken in the summer of 1942.
Discover the history of the York Theatre, located in Petworth, Washington DC. Opened in 1919, explore photos from the theater, including an awesome old photo from Flickr. Learn more!
Early in the 19th century, there was a proposal to build a national university at the west end of the Mall, where the Lincoln Memorial now sits.
Take a look back in time to 1892 with this beautiful old photograph of the National Bank of Washington. See how the buildings look today in a Google Street View!
Take a look at this beautiful 1940s DC rowhouse. Do you know where it could be located? Could it be in Dupont or Columbia Heights?
Take a look back in time with this 1928 Woodley Park advertisement from The Washington Post. Learn more about the Wardman homes and the area’s history in this nostalgic piece.
