McLean Gardens: From Hope Diamond Estate to WWII Worker Housing to Wisconsin Avenue Condos
Friendship was the McLean estate where Evalyn Walsh McLean kept the Hope Diamond. In 1942 it became apartments for 3,500 war workers.
Washington Post
The Washington Post has been covering the capital since 1877, and its history is deeply intertwined with the city it covers. These posts explore the Post’s story, from its early struggles and multiple ownership changes to the Watergate coverage that defined American journalism and the Graham family era that made it one of the world’s great newspapers.
Exploring the Cost of Living in DC from the 1950s to Now
GoDCer Jamie sent in a request to look into the cost-of-living in DC over time and how it has changed since the 1950s. Read our article to find out how much a pound of pork cost in 1952 and compare it to today’s prices!
The Unfortunate Demolition of the Ugly, Brutalist, Soviet-Looking Dunbar High School Built in the 1970s
Take a look at the unfortunate demolition of the ugly, brutalist, Soviet-looking Dunbar High School built in the 1970s. Here’s an article we dug up from the Washington Post, printed on April 13th, 1977.
The Altman Siblings: Sylvia Entered Central High School at Age 10
In 1913, Sylvia Altman enrolled at Central High School in Washington, D.C. at age 10. She graduated college at 17. Her brothers Julian and Elmer were no less driven. Here’s the story of three siblings who made Washington papers before any of them were old enough to vote.
Digging Deeper into the Red Capitol Dome Photo
Yesterday Tom shared a somewhat jarring photo of the Capitol dome — colored red. After a bit of digging, we now know that the Capitol’s re-painting (and temporary red coloring) happened in April 1960. Read more about this photo and a shiny red Metro train unexpectedly painted red!
You Can Get Lost in These Old Classified Pages: An Exploration of the Washington Post from October 5th, 1895
Explore these old classified pages from the Washington Post on Saturday, October 5th, 1895. From Turkish Baths to experienced shampoos, you won’t believe what you’ll find.
Discovering Hidden Gems: A Look at the Washington Post Classified Pages from March 29th, 1879
Take a trip back in time to explore the Washington Post Classified Pages from March 29th, 1879. Discover hidden gems and find out what the National Clothing Company was advertising in the city of Washington D.C.
A Look Back at Real Estate Prices in 1886
Take a step back in time and discover what real estate prices were like in 1886. In this Washington Post ad, you can find houses for sale for $15,000 or rent for $40 a month!
Officer Sprinkle at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City
Officer Sprinkle, the patron saint of Ghosts of DC, took a trip up to New York City with 21 contest winners from The Washington Post. Read the account of the dinner party at the iconic Waldorf-Astoria they attended prior to heading to Europe.