I'm reading a very interesting book about Washington published in 1840 titled "A Picture of Washington." I just got to the part where it starts talking about the taxes in the city ... I have to share these with you because they're a good window into life in Washington in the middle of the 19th century, and more importantly, before emancipation in the District. When reading this, remember that a dollar back in 1840 is roughly the equivalent of $20 in today's money.