National Archives Archives

View of National Archive Site Construction in 1932

November 9, 2022July 9, 2018 by ghostsofdc

Photograph of a View of the Entire Site for the National Archives Building, Washington, D.C.

This lovely old image shows the site of the National Archives early in the construction process. It was taken on July 1st, 1932.

Revealed: Rare Photo of National Archives Building Before Its Construction in the 1930s

February 18, 2023March 5, 2018 by ghostsofdc

Explore the fascinating history of the National Archives building through a rare photo taken before its construction in the 1930s. Discover the building’s original design and learn how it was transformed into the iconic structure that houses some of America’s most important documents today.

Richard Nixon’s Resignation Letter Was Just One Sentence

May 11, 2026June 19, 2013 by ghostsofdc

The National Archives has uncovered a rare image of Richard Nixon’s resignation letter, initialed by Henry Kissinger at 11:35 a.m. on August 9th, 1974. Check out the letter here!

Why Did They Rename B Street to Constitution Avenue?

April 27, 2026February 21, 2012 by ghostsofdc

Constitution Avenue was not always called Constitution Avenue. There’s a Wisconsin connection to the story that most DC residents don’t know.

Exploring the Official Program from the Historic 1963 March on Washington

November 19, 2023February 2, 2012 by ghostsofdc

March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom program (1963)

I started poking through the National Archives database the other day and came across the official program from the August 28th, 1963 March on Washington. This would have been a good one to share on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Near the end of the program, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., gave what is one of the best and most powerful speeches in the history of mankind (which he completed writing while a guest at the Willard Hotel).

Watch his full speech in the video. It’s simply amazing.

Babe Ruth in Washington, DC: The Story Behind the National Guard Enlistment Photo

May 6, 2026February 1, 2012 by ghostsofdc

Babe Ruth signs up for the New York National Guard

Learn the story behind the iconic photo of Babe Ruth in a military uniform. He was in Washington, DC to enlist in the New York National Guard and play two games against the Washington Senators. Read the amusing articles from the Washington Post and Associated Press about the event.