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.
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.
The night Booth shot Lincoln, Lewis Powell tried to kill Secretary Seward. Six-foot-two, twenty when he attacked. Hanged eleven weeks later.
When Union troops entered Alexandria on May 24, 1861, they found one elderly man chained to the basement floor of the slave pen at 1315 Duke Street.
Explore the 1863 convalescent camp four miles outside of Washington, run by the U.S. Christian Commission. See photos of the camp and the Commission’s 1865 D.C. headquarters.
Take a look back in time to April 1865 and see a photograph of 21st and F St. NW at the conclusion of the Civil War. Does it look a little different to you
Magazine editor Sarah Josepha Hale spent 36 years asking Presidents to make Thanksgiving a national holiday. In September 1863, Abraham Lincoln finally said yes.
This article reveals the fascinating story of Varina Davis’ visit to Washington in 1866, when her husband, Jefferson Davis, was a prisoner at Fortress Monroe. Learn how Varina Davis called on President Johnson at the White House and more!
