Washington sat at the center of the Civil War, serving as the Union capital with Confederate territory just across the river. These posts cover the forts, hospitals, battles, figures, and everyday life that defined the city during the war years.
Get a better look at the Old State Department Building during the Civil War with this amazing photo. Click on it for some amazing details and find out why there are a large number of wooden boxes at the main entrance to the building.
Take a step back in time with this 1861 photo of Washington, DC. Click on it for a larger version and marvel at the history of our nation’s capital
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.
Where did Jefferson Davis live when he was a senator in Washington, DC?
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!
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.
Take a look at this 1861 Civil War map of the D.C. area to explore the District’s history of war
Sarah Rosetta Wakeman enlisted in the 153rd New York Volunteers as Private Lyons Wakeman. At least 400 other women did the same.
