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.
On June 17th, 1864, an explosion rocked the Washington Arsenal in the nation’s capital. 19 women and girls were killed in the tragedy, and the victims were commemorated with a monument still standing today. Learn the story of the Washington Arsenal explosion.
Take a glimpse at a stunning bird’s eye view of Alexandria, VA from 1863, courtesy of the Library of Congress. It’s a beautiful sight to behold
Discover a fascinating piece of history with this 1862 drawing of Fort Pennsylvania at Tennallytown during the Civil War. Learn more about this important fort from the perspective of the time.
Three Civil War photographs of Fort Totten in Washington, DC: the fort itself, its interior, and a 100 pound Parrott gun at the fort.
Explore the fascinating story of how Abraham Lincoln was a technophile and gave birth to the Union Army Balloon Corps in 1861, when Thaddeus Lowe sent him a telegram from a gas balloon over the National Mall.
Explore a rare bird’s eye view of Washington, DC from 1861, uncovered by one of the first GoDCers, John. Check out the original online at the Boston Public Library site!
An 1861 Civil War map of rebel fortifications just west of Washington, D.C., found in the Boston Public Library archives.
Explore the Marshall House in Alexandria, Virginia, where the first Union officer was killed during the Civil War. Learn the story of Elmer Ellsworth and the Confederate flag, and see the incredible stereographic image of the Marshall House from the Library of Congress.
A high-resolution photograph of Washington, D.C. taken from 14th and B Street NW (now Constitution Avenue) in 1865. From the Library of Congress collection.
