A Look at the 1861 Civil War Map of the D.C. Area
Take a look at this 1861 Civil War map of the D.C. area to explore the District’s history of war
Civil War
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.
The Brave Women Who Disguised Themselves as Men to Join the Civil War
Sarah Rosetta Wakeman enlisted in the 153rd New York Volunteers as Private Lyons Wakeman. At least 400 other women did the same.
Lewis Powell: The Lincoln Conspirator Who Tried to Kill William Seward
The night Booth shot Lincoln, Lewis Powell tried to kill Secretary Seward. Six-foot-two, twenty when he attacked. Hanged eleven weeks later.
The Alexandria Slave Pen at 1315 Duke Street: From Franklin & Armfield to Price, Birch & Co.
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.
Exploring the 1863 Convalescent Camp Four Miles Outside of Washington
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.
A Look Back in Time: How 21st and F St. NW Appeared at the End of the Civil War
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
How Sarah Josepha Hale Urged Abraham Lincoln to Establish a National Day of Thanksgiving
Magazine editor Sarah Josepha Hale spent 36 years asking Presidents to make Thanksgiving a national holiday. In September 1863, Abraham Lincoln finally said yes.
Uncovering the Story of Varina Davis’ Visit to Washington in 1866
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!
A Rare Photo of a Civil War-Era Beer Garden in Washington, D.C.
Check out this rare photo of a beer garden from just after the Civil War located at 4th and E St. NE in Washington, D.C. Discover the history of this iconic establishment with the Historical Society of Washington, D.C.