The Metropolitan Police Department has been Washington’s city police force since 1861, when Congress established it to maintain order in a capital suddenly flooded with soldiers and refugees. These posts explore the MPD’s history, from its Civil War origins and the colorful officers who defined its early years to the crime waves and reforms that shaped modern policing in DC.
Once again, our favorite hero has come to the rescue. Read the tale from the annals of Officer Sprinkle from July 1st, 1914 when an explosive device was found in a telephone box near the Old Masonic Temple in Washington, D.C.
Last week’s winner of the “If Walls Could Talk” poll was Sonoma Restaurant and Wine Bar. They altered the look and feel of the tavern-heavy block of Pennsylvania between 2nd and 3rd St. SE and have been satisfying discerning palates with sophisticated wine and charcuterie since the fall of 2005. I’m excited to branch out … Read more
Read about the horrific Eckington streetcar accident of 1919 that injured 35 passengers and resulted in the arrest of both the motorman and the conductor. Shockingly, amidst the chaos, two passengers were robbed of their belongings.
This next installment of “If Walls Could Talk” will be the Petworth watering hole, The Looking Glass Lounge. This is one of my favorite places for a Sunday afternoon beer, especially in the warmer months, out on their back patio. I imagine the place will be packed this evening, and now you guys have another … Read more
Compare photos from 1921 and today at the intersection of Columbia Rd. and Sherman Ave. NW in Washington, D.C. See the same row of homes still standing and read about the automobile accident that happened there in 1921.
A couple of reader comments about an Officer Sprinkle in this earlier post piqued my interest in finding out a little more about the guy who has the kind of name you’d give to a cat. An unforgettable name, so hopefully I’ll be able to dig up enough information on this guy to write a … Read more
Take a step back in time to 1895 and explore the rough Irish immigrant neighborhood of Swampoodle. Read a column from the Washington Post that tells the story of three locals who boozed until the wee hours of the morning.
Remembering the Dime Messenger Service boys who worked in Washington D.C. in 1912. Meet Eddie Tahoory and Earle Griffith, two young boys working at the headquarters at 1228 H St. NW. Discover the stories behind the faces of yesterday.
