Historic National Academy of Science Building

Historic National Academy of Science Building - The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) was established in 1863 via a charter signed by President Abraham Lincoln, “to investigate, examine, experiment, and report upon any subject of science or art.” This not-for-profit organization is said to conduct over two hundred studies a year on various subjects. The first study that was undertaken by the organization on April 22, 1863 was the riveting task of measuring the “uniformity of weights, measures, and coins, considered in relation to domestic and international commerce.”

National Academy of Science

Past and current members have included more than one hundred twenty Nobel Peace Prize winners and famed scientists such as Noam Chomsky (“Father of Modern Linguistics”), Jacques Cousteau (famous oceanographer and explorer), Thomas Edison (noted inventor of 1,093 patented devices including the light bulb), and Albert Einstein. Members of NAS must be voted in and it is considered one of the highest honors of achievement for a scientist to be nominated.

If accepted, scientists are initiated for life. A full listing of past and present members is available on the NAS website and provides a fascinating insight as to the amount of genius that graces the hall of this building on occasion (http://www.nndb.com/org/692/000054530/).

The National Academy of Sciences is housed within a neoclassical building that stands three-stories tall and is constructed of a white New York Dover marble. The building was designed by architect Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue who sadly died just a few days before the building’s unveiling in 1924. If you glance amongst the windows of the building along its front façade you will notice a series of eight-foot low-relief bronze panels.

These were sculpted by Lee Lawrie (who also sculpted the magnificent reredos within St. Thomas Church in New York City) and are said to represent the likes of Aristotle, Galileo, Descartes, and Benjamin Franklin amongst others. The most eye-catching element outside of the National Academy of sciences, however, is a twenty-one foot bronze statue hidden slightly away by a grove of elm and holly trees. The statue dedicated to Albert Einstein was sculpted by Robert Berks and weighs nearly four tons.

• Website: http://www.nasonline.org/
• Address:2101 Constitution Avenue, NW,Washington,DC
• Cost: Free to view

I Walked Decatur House, Washington DC

Decatur house Washington, DC was constructed in 1818 as the first private residence, and a third building overall (after the White House and St. John’s Episcopal Church), built along Lafayette Square. The original building had three stories (currently four) and is a square-shaped red-brick structure designed in the popular Federal style.

Decatur House, Washington DC

The Decatur house Washington, DC was designed by famed architect Benjamin Henry Latrobe for Naval Commodore Stephen Decatur, Jr. And wife, Susan Wheeler. Decatur was a naval hero who was the youngest captain ever commissioned in the United States Navy at the age of 25 (a distinction he still holds today).

Stephen had won numerous battles during his command of the USS Constitution as part of the Barbary Wars and later aboard the USS United States in the War of 1812. When Decatur and his young bride moved to Washington in 1816, Stephen used monies awarded to him for his conquests to build a home along the northwest corner of Lafayette Square. His one request of Latrobe was that the home be constructed of hearty material and be “sturdy as a ship.’

Unfortunately, the Decaturs lived in, their blissful home for just over a year (fifteen months to be exact) before Stephen succumb to the challenges of a gentleman’s duel on March 22, 1820. The challenger was Commodore James Barron, who had felt slighted by a sentence bestowed upon him by Decatur. Barron held command of the American frigate Chesapeake in 1807 when it was attacked by a British warship, the HMS Leopard. After a single warning shot was fired upon the Chesapeake, Barron surrendered his ship without question. The British then boarded the Chesapeake and took four members of the Barron’s crew hostage after charging them as deserters of the Royal Navy. Barron, upon return, was reprimanded for his cowardice and was suspended for five years by a naval board that included Stephen Decatur. Seeking revenge for his now tarnished his image; Barron continued to challenge Decatur to a duel until the man agreed.

The duel amongst Decatur and Barron took place at 9 a.m. In Bladensburg, Maryland in a field adjacent to the town’s tavern. The men agreed to a face-to-face challenge that would be set at only eight paces. Each man got off a single shot. Decatur’s shot deflected off of Barron’s hip into his thigh and sent him sprawling to the ground, injured yet not mortally wounded. Barron’s shot, however, rang true and entered the pelvic area of Decatur. Decatur would be carried back to his home where he would pass away later that evening. At his funeral, it is said that over 10,000 people attended to pay their respects, including President James Monroe.

After Stephen’s death, Susan decided to move to a smaller home in nearby Georgetown and she began to rent out the Decatur House to visiting dignitaries over the course of the next fifteen years. Despite have left a sizeable inheritance, Susan found herself in mounting debt and she was forced to sell the home in 1836. Susan led a sad life after her husband’s death despite having numerous suitors including Aaron Burr. She would pass away in 1860, both childless and penniless.

The Decatur house Washington, DC was acquired in 1836 by a wealthy tavern owner named John Gadsby. Gadsby was also the proprietor of the well-known Gadsby’s Tavern located in Alexandria, VA and the former National Hotel located on Pennsylvania Avenue. Gadsby moved into the home with his wife Providence. During their residency, John constructed a two-story building directly behind his home. This building would serve as quarters for the slaves, which served his home. The structure still exists today and is a rare example of former slave quarters, which still reside within Washington.

The Federal Government seized the property during the Civil War for usage as storage space. After the war, in 1872, the home was acquired by General Edward Fitzgerald Beale. Beale had amassed his fortune during the California Gold Rush and was most famous for his failed efforts to establish a Camel Corps for the United States Army in the deserts of Arizona and New Mexico (the animals proved both slow and stubborn). The home remained in the Beale family for 84 years until 1956 when Marie Beale bequeathed the property to the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The home was opened as a museum beginning in the early 1960s.

The museum offers perspective into eight period rooms across two stories. In addition, the museum is currently in the process of being redesigned to serve as an educational center on the history of the nearby White House. During this renovation, the museum is temporarily closed. Continue to check the Decatur House website for updates as to its reopening. (And we will be sure to post hours and admission prices as soon as available.)

While passing by the Decatur house Washington, DC take a moment to glance up along the north side of the building along H Street, NW. Here you will see what appears to be a series of walled up windows. Legends tell of how upon Stephen Decatur’s death, his housekeepers would see his ghostly apparition on occasion looking out one of these windows. Supposedly upon hearing the tales, Susan immediately required that the relevant windows be walled up. As with all legends and tales, though, a fact usually trumps fiction.

It just so happens that the windows that appear as if they were walled up were never really windows. When Benjamin Latrobe was designing the Decatur House and he was installing a series of fireplaces, he was challenged with maintaining to his symmetrical Federal-style design. He could not likely install windows behind the fireplaces and thus the best he could do was to maintain the impression by carving out their ideal locales.

• Website: http://www.whitehousehistory.org/decatur-house/
• Address: 1610 H Street, NW, Washington, DC
• Cost: Free

I Walked Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum the second most popular of all Smithsonian Museums, got its start on August 12, 1946 when it approved by President Harry S. Truman. It was initially recognized as the National Air Museum, and it was not until the space race was ramping up in the 1960s that the museum was rechristened to its current name. The museum was originally housed in a number of disparate buildings across the city, including the Arts and Industries Building; and it wasn’t until 1976 that a home solely dedicated to the museum was constructed.

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum opened at its current location on July 1, 1976. Prior to the erection of the museum at this site, a number of other buildings and attractions found their home here, including the Washington Armory (which stored weapons for the D.C. Militia), a movie studio, and the U.S. Fish Commission. The existing building was designed by the St. Louis architectural firm of Hellmuth, Obata and Kassabaum. It is a three-story structure of nearly 200,000 square feet that is constructed of pink Tennessee marble interspersed with bits of glass including a massive glass wall on the west side of the building (that also functions as a door for loading/unloading aircraft into the museum). An annex to the museum was constructed in 2003 at Dulles International Airport and named for its benefactor, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy.

Located within the museum is, not surprisingly, a vast collection of some 50,000 objects related to air and spacecraft from a variety of eras. One of the most noted exhibits is the 1903 aircraft that was flown by the Wright Brothers at Kitty Hawk, in what is recognized as the first powered flight. While admiring the plane, you may learn such obscure facts such as that it is composed of wood and fabric held together by steel wire. Noted spacecraft include the Apollo 11 space capsule that flew Michael Collins, Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong to the moon on July 20, 1969. It was on this historic flight that Neil Armstrong would become the first man to walk on the moon. And although it is not a real spaceship, people still flock to the wooden model of the Enterprise that was used in filming the television series Star Trek.

In total there are twenty-galleries for visitation across two floors of exhibits (the third level is left for administrative offices). In addition to the multiple aircrafts that may be admired hanging from the ceiling, a museum store and IMAX theater also exist on the first floor. Another popular attraction is the Albert Einstein Planetarium where visitors may view projected stars and planets across the seventy foot dome.

Visitation of the museum is free and it is open every day of the year less Christmas. Hours are typically from 10:00 am 5:30 pm. Free guided tours are also offered twice daily at 10:30 am and 1 pm. All tours depart from the Welcome Center near the front entrance.

• Website: http://airandspace.si.edu/
• Address: Intersection of 4th Street, SW and Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC
• Cost: Free

I Walked Jefferson National Expansion Memorial

Jefferson National Expansion Memorial is one of the top 10 tourist attractions in Washington DC - One of the most significant attractions along the Tidal Basin actually drew scorn when it was first proposed on this site as it meant the removal of numerous cherry trees. This monument, further mocked via its nickname of “Jefferson’s muffin,” was dedicated to the third president of the United States who was also an avid architect, philosopher, inventor and intellect (speaking five languages) —Thomas Jefferson.

Jefferson National Expansion Memorial

The Jefferson National Expansion Memorial is a domed shape building that is actually based upon a structure of Jefferson’s own design. The architect, John Russell Pope, paid the ultimate tribute to Jefferson by integrating a similar rotunda in his design to the one Jefferson had created at the University of Virginia. The rotunda rests atop a rounded colonnade that features tall Ionic columns gracing its front façade. The building is largely constructed of white marble that was quarried from mines in Vermont along with Georgia granite, Tennessee marble and Indiana limestone.

The pope has designed a number of other buildings of note within Washington, D.C., but less for a weak stomach, may have entered another field of study. Planning to attend John Hopkins University in Baltimore to study medicine, he decided he didn’t have the stomach for it after sitting in on a medical procedure. He shifted his focus to architecture where he would later get a degree from Columbia University in 1894. His other well recognized buildings in D.C. Include the House of the Temple (1915), the National Archives Building (1935) and the West Building of the National Gallery of Art (1941).

Unfortunately, the Pope passed away in 1937, just two years prior to construction beginning on the Jefferson Memorial. Oversight would fall onto the shoulders of Daniel P. Higgins and Otto R. Eggers to ensure the Pope’s design was faithfully implemented. The cornerstone for the building (an eleven-ton piece of Vermont marble) was laid on November 15, 1939 with a copy of some of Jefferson’s most famous writings including the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. The monument was formally dedicated on April 13, 1943, Jefferson’s two-hundredth birthday. Leading the dedication was President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

One member, or element, that was missing at the dedication is the famous nineteen foot, five ton bronze statue that currently graces the interior of the monument. The statue by Rudolph Evans had not been fully completed and thus a plaster version (painted as if to look like bronze) had to be installed temporarily. The delay had been largely driven by a material shortage due to World War II.

Rudolph was awarded the commission for the statue of Thomas Jefferson in 1941. His design was selected out of one-hundred one entries. The final statue, which Rudolph designed was cast in New York by the Roman Bronze Company and installed in 1947.

The statue features Jefferson stands stoically with a copy of the Declaration of Independence clutched within his left hand. The long jacket he appears to be wearing was supposedly a gift from his dear friend and fellow patriot Tadeusz Kosciuszko.

Surrounding Jefferson is five quotations from some of his most memorable writings. In 1972 a transcript error was noted by a professor from Northwestern University on a quotation taken from the Declaration of Independence. This quote located along the southwestern wall contains the word “inalienable” in lieu of “unalienable” as drafted on the Declaration of Independence.

Also worthy of note around the memorial is a marble pediment that resides just above the main entryway on the north side. The pediment is titled The Drafting of the Declaration of Independence and was sculpted by Adolph A. Weinman in 1943. Amongst the famous faces you will see include the likes of Mr. Jefferson, along with Benjamin Franklin and John Adams.

Info Jefferson National Expansion Memorial

• Website: http://www.nps.gov/thje/index.htm
• Address: Intersection of E Basin Drive, SW and Ohio Drive, SW, Washington, DC
• Cost: Free

The Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Washington DC

The Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Washington DC - Our nation’s capitol. Nowhere else in the United States will you find so many family friendly and “free” attractions. Most of the largest tourist attractions are centrally located in the National Mall area which allows for easy navigation. The most popular time of year to visit is during spring when the cherry blossoms (1912 gifts from Japan) are in full bloom. Once you’re here, though, where do you go to make the most of your time? Well, we here at I Walked have compiled our favorite recommendations for Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Washington D.C.

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Washington DC

1. Washington Monument

It’s no irony that the tallest building in Washington D.C. (By law) presents the greatest views of the city. You can ride the elevator to top of the 555 foot white stone obelisk whereby park rangers will explain the history of this long-in-the-works building. Approved for construction in 1783, it was not formally completed until 1885. From the outside you can even see two different hues of stone which show when construction was temporarily stopped during the Civil War. The color differentiation is due to builders having to obtain the stones from a different quarry post-war.

Address: 1600 Independence Avenue, N.W., Washington D.C.
Cost: Free, but you do need to book a ticket in advance via the website above.

2. U.S. Capitol

This historic building may appear to turn its back on visitors whilst facing east (away from the National Mall to the west), you should definitely not turn your back on it. Within its impressive walls you may view where laws are passed within the Senate and House or enjoy the 4,644 square foot ceiling fresco, the Apotheosis of Washington. This painting depicts our 1st president, becoming a god. A visitation to the cafeteria is guaranteed to offer bean soup, as this menu item is required by law since the early 1900s.

Address: Entrance is at the Eastern front on First Street and East Capitol Street, NE, Washington, D.C.
Cost: Free, but the tour pass is required. Tours are recommended to be booked in advance; however, a limited number of tickets are available daily at the Information Desk in Emancipation Hall on the lower level of the U.S. Capitol.

3. White House

The rooms for visitation are somewhat limited, including the cleverly titled Blue, Green and Red Rooms. No visit to Washington, D.C., however, would be complete without a stop to the home of every president since John Adams.
Web site
Address: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington D.C.
Cost: Free, however, tours must be scheduled through your appropriate Member of Congress 1-6 months in advance of your planned visit.

4. Lincoln Memorial

The stoic 19 foot white marble statue of a seated Abraham Lincoln sends shivers down your spine. Daniel Chester French’s depiction is incredibly ornate in detail situated within a 36 Doric columned hall (representing the number of states in the union at the time of Lincoln’s presidency). At the base of the monument is the infamous reflection pool providing impressive views of the Washington Monument.
Web site
Address: Intersection of Independence Ave SW & 23rd St SW.
Cost: Free

5. Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

The most popular of the 19 Smithsonian museums, the National Air and Space Museum provides a hands-on opportunity for families to learn and experience the history of flight. Here you can see the original Wright Brothers airplane, the Apollo 11 command module or the original model for the Star Trek Enterprise. Time permitting, you can also visit the Albert Einstein Planetarium or one of the many IMAX films offered. Do not leave without letting the kids touch an actual moon rock!
Web site
Address: Independence Ave at 6th Street, SW, Washington D.C.
Cost: Free

6. National Gallery of Art

Segregated into 2 wings, the museum timelines its collection of 100,000+ pieces of art. Within the west wing (designed by John Russell Pope, best known for designing the Jefferson Memorial) are treasures dating from the 13th to 19th centuries. Here you will find the only DA Vinci painting within the United States. Working your way to the east wing (designed by I.M. Poe, who also designed the pyramid outside of the Louvre in Paris), you may enjoy more compositions of modern art.
Web site
Address: 4th and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC
Cost: Free

7. National Zoo

Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead (who also created that small park in New York known as Central Park), this is another surprisingly free attraction (well, less the parking). Famous residents have included pandas from China (still a popular attraction) and Smokey the Bear. Kids will get a kick out of watching the orangutans traveling across the Orangutan Transport System (O-Line) over their heads within the Think Tank.
Web site
Address: 3001 Connecticut Avenue Northwest, Washington D.C.
Cost: Admission is free, however, parking is $10 for 1 hour, $15 for 2-3 hours, and $20 for greater than 3 hours.

8. Georgetown

Famous for its University, the streets of Georgetown are where you’ll likely want to go for shopping, restaurants and enjoying the old architecture along M Street. The Old Stone House at 3051 M Street is the oldest home in the area dating back to 1765. For shopping/commerce, check out Wisconsin Ave.
Web site
Address: 37th and O Street, NW, Washington, DC. (Note: Address is from Georgetown University—a popular attraction. Otherwise, take a stroll along Wisconsin Ave, NW.)
Cost: Depends on how much you eat/drink.

9. Washington National Cathedral

The 6th largest cathedral in the world took almost a full century to complete (1907-1990). A single visit will confirm it was worth the wait. Visit the cathedral for mass (as every president since Theodore Roosevelt has) or for a tour. The gothic structure contains over 200 stained-glass windows, gargoyles and the face of Darth Vader (as alluded to in Dan Brown’s The Lost Symbol). For information on how to find the Star Wars villain, check out http://www.nationalcathedral.org/about/darthVader.shtml.
Web site
Address: 3101 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Washington D.C.
Cost: Requested donation of $5.

10. (Tie) Thomas Jefferson Memorial

If you are lucky enough to come to Washington D.C. When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, there is no more beautiful locale to experience them than outside of this monument. Sometimes neglected as it has been relegated to the southern point of the National Mall just behind the Tidal Basin. A visit to reflect and enjoy the John Russell Pope structure which celebrates our 3rd president (and author of the Declaration of Independence) is well worth the extra hike.
Web site
Address: Intersection of Ohio Drive SW & E Basin Drive SW, Washington D.C.
Cost: Free

11. (Tie) International Spy Museum

Finally the opportunity for children and adults alike to live out their James Bond-like fantasies. Take part in “Spy in the City” or “Operation Spy” and become an actual agent. For the lazier amongst us who just want to learn about the history of espionage from Moses to the Cold War, the museum offers this opportunity as well. No guarantees that the eye will not be watching your every move.
Web site
Address: 800 F Street Northwest, Washington D.C.
Cost: $18 Adult and $15 Children (Ages 5-11)

Iwalked Washington D.C.’S Cutts-Madison House

I walked Washington D.C.’S Cutts-Madison House - The yellow Colonial-style home at the intersection of H Street, NW and Madison Place, NW is named for two of its former owners and recognized as the Cutts-Madison House. The building was constructed in 1820 for the Comptroller of the Treasury named Richard Cutts. He actually built the house himself for which he and his wife, Anna Payne Cutts (the younger sister of Dolley Madison). The building was the first to be constructed along the eastern edge of Lafayette Square and originally featured two stories covered in grey stucco. The building’s original entrance also formerly faced Lafayette Square, although it has since been replaced by a bay window.

Cutts-Madison House

The Cutts family ran into financial hardship in 1828 and the building’s mortgage was acquired by former President James Madison for the sum of $5,750. James lived here with his wife Dolley until his death in 1836. James’ death, along with supporting a son with extravagant habits from a former marriage (John Payne Todd), left Dolley in a financially unstable position. She moved out of the family’s mansion at Montpelier and moved into this residence to attempt to reduce her expenses. She made one final valiant attempt to save her beloved Montpelier when she returned for a brief period during 1839 to 1843 and rented out her Madison Place residence. Unfortunately the additional income was insufficient to save Montpelier and she was forced to sell the property and return to the Cutts-Madison House in 1843. She would live the remainder of her days here until her death in July 1849. A historical plaque recognizing the famous former tenants of this building resides along it’s H Street, NW side. One interesting fact of note regarding the plaque is that Mrs. Madison’s name is misspelled as she actually spelled her name Dolley—not Dolly.

Upon Dolley’s passing the residence passed to her sole surviving child, John, although it appears someone forgot to inform Dolley that the property had passed onto new owners. For a number of years after her death many passersby of this home would claim to see her ghostly image sitting on the porch as she loved to do in her later years.
Officially the property would pass into the ownership of Rear Admiral Charles Wilkes, who purchased the home from John in April 1851. Wilkes is best recognized as having led an exploring expedition within the South Seas from 1838-1842. He would reside here with his family for a period dating 1851 to 1886. During this time Wilkes did make one significant change in the structure when he had the original gable roof removed and replaced it with the current flat roof which you see today.

The next official tenant to move into the famed Cutts-Madison House would be the Cosmos Club, which acquired the building from Wilkes in 1886 for $40,000. The Cosmos Club is a private social club that was founded in 1878 by John Wesley Powell with the stated objective of, “The advancement of its members in science, literature and art.” The Cosmos Club, during its tenancy which lasted until 1952, made a number of additional alterations to the building including raising the roof for the addition of a full third story. The Cosmos Club would vacate the property in 1952 when it moved to its current home and headquarters within the Townsend Mansion(located at 2121 Massachusetts Avenue, NW).

In the ensuing years a handful of government agencies would call the Cutts-Madison House home. The National Science Foundation operated out of here for a handful of years during 1952 to 1958. After this, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) actually held offices here until 1964. Today, the Cutts-Madison is part of a complex of buildings that are a part of the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. In addition to the Cutts-Madison House this complex includes the neighboring Cosmos Club Building, the Benjamin Ogle Tayloe House and the Howard T. Markey National Courts Building.

• Website: http://www.streetsofwashington.com/2010/10/dolley-madisons-house-on-lafayette.html
• Address:721 Madison Place, NW, Washington, DC
• Cost: Free

The tributary statue to Marquis de Lafayette in Washington DC

The tributary statue of Marquis de Lafayette within his namesake Washington D.C. Square, resides on the southeast corner of the park. The sculpture was erected in 1891 and designed by two French sculptors, Jean Alexandre Joseph Faulguiere and Marius Jean Antonin Marcie. The ten-foot bronze impression of Lafayette stands atop a fifteen-foot white marble base. In the sculpture, Lafayette is said to be addressing the French National Assembly to plea for their assistance in America’s war of independence. Lafayette is dressed casually in civilian clothing to signify him as a man of the people. Draped over his left arm is a cape or cloak of some sort.

Marquis de Lafayette in Washington DC

Lafayette’s likeliness originally faced the White House and was placed between it and the centerpiece of Lafayette Square, an equestrian statue of Andrew Jackson. The statue did not remain there long, however, as the White House complained that it blocked their view of Jackson and the sculpture of Lafayette was subsequently moved to its current locale.

Along all four sides of the square base of the Lafayette statue are a series of added bronze sculptures. On the front side of the monument (south side) is a bare-breasted figure representing America offers up a sword to Lafayette. Working our way around the statue clockwise, on Lafayette’s left (east side) are two figures said to represent Comte d’Estaing and the Comte de Grasse of the French navy who came to aid in America’s cause as per Lafayette’s plea. Along the back side is inscribed a personal thank you to Lafayette for his services in the American Revolution as drafted by Congress. Lastly, along Lafayette’s right (west side) are two French army commanders, Comte de Rochambeau and Chevalier du Portail who also answered to Lafayette’s call for French assistance.

Lafayette is best known for leading his troops to victory at the Siege of Yorktown at which the infamous British General Charles Cornwallis finally surrendered in 1781, thereby virtually ending the Revolutionary War.

• Website: http://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WM35VR_Gilbert_de_Lafayette_Memorial_Washington_DC
• Address: Lafayette Square, Washington, DC (southeast corner of park)
• Cost: Free

Iwalked Washington D.C.’S Carousel On The Mall

Washington D.C.’S Carousel On The Mall Located just outside of the Arts and Industries Building is a carousel that has amused children since it was first moved here in 1967. The existing carousel actually pre-dates the placement of a carousel on this site by exactly twenty years (1947). This current carousel was built by the popular Allan Hershell Company, a company that specialized in construction of amusement park rides and carousels for years, and was originally located at the Gwynn Oak Amusement Park in Woodlawn, MD. It consists of four rows of wooden and metal figures that children may mount and ride for three joy-filled minutes. Amongst the selection of readable figures includes some fifty-seven horses, one dragon, two chariots and one spinning tub.

The idea of placement of a carousel on the Mall was first proposed by the eighth Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, S. Dillon Ripley (a position he served for twenty years during the period 1964-1984). Ripley’s idea was initially chastised because it was feared that by starting to put children’s rides on the grounds of the Mall, it would start a trend that may transpire into a full blown amusement park. Ripley calmed fears, however, and was successful in planting a carousel on the grounds in the spring of 1967.

Carousel On The Mall

The original carousel acquired by Ripley included thirty-three horses. Its a most charming feature, though, was the inclusion of an actual Wurlitzer pipe organ that played while children rode aboard it. This carousel was replaced by the current one in front of you in 1975.

The Smithsonian Carousel on the Mall is open for rides all year round. During the period of March 1 to September 6 it is open during the hours of 6:10am-5:30pm. From September 7 to February 28 an abridged schedule of 11am-5pm exists. As of early 2012 rides currently cost $3.50 for each child, and children under four must be accompanied by an adult.

• Website: http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/misc-locations/the-carousel-on-the-national-mall,1027953.html
• Address: 900 Jefferson Drive, Washington, DC
• Cost: $3.50 for each child. Children under four must be accompanied by an adult.

Iwalked Washington DC's Treasury Building

Iwalked Washington DC's Treasury Building - The Treasury Building is the oldest executive department within the United States federal government and also one of the largest with over 100,000 employees. Despite being housed in one of the biggest governmental buildings in all of Washington, it is said that only about ten percent of its work force can be accommodated here. The Treasury department was formally established by an act of Congress on September 2, 1789 with the general objectives of managing the government’s revenue through such activities as producing currency, collecting taxes and managing all public debt. Just nine days after the department’s creation the first Secretary of the Treasury was sworn in, Alexander Hamilton.

Treasury Building

The Treasury Building is the third oldest federal building in the city (after the White House and U.S. Capitol) and how it came to be here is one of Washington’s grandest legends. Supposedly President Andrew Jackson was out for a walk with some his aides discussing some issues that required his direct attention. When the topic of the hotly debated locale of the new Treasury Building came up Jackson became angered, slammed down his walking cane and said, “Put it here!” His aides reportedly took his declaration literally and began preparations for construction of the new monstrous home for the Treasury Department. When the cornerstone for the Treasury Building was laid it was said that Jackson added a lock of hair from his granddaughter as an added token of good luck.

Four-story Structure

The Treasury Building is a massive four-story structure that claims to be the largest Greek Revival building in the world. It encompasses two full city blocks and covers five acres of space. The original T-shaped structure (consisting of the central and eastern wings) was designed by architect Robert Mills and constructed over a period from 1836 to 1842. Mill’s design was largely unpopular by Congress who fretted that the mountainous structure would block the White House’s view to the east. Mills snubbed the remarks and continued with his prodigious efforts. For his insubordination, Mills would be released from his post of chief architect for the Treasury Building in 1851.

Prior to his dismissal though, Mills managed to create a magnificent sandstone and granite structure that integrated a series of thirty Ionic columns along its 15th Street facade. Each of these columns stands thirty-six feet tall, weighs thirty tons and was reportedly carved out of a single piece of granite. The costs incurred to construct and install each column were reported to be $5,000 each.

Despite Congress’ apparent concern over the size of the Treasury Building, expansions to the structure would ensue over three more periods. The first addition occurred from 1855-1860 when a wing was added along the south side (giving the building an upside down F-shape). This wing was designed by the architectural team of Ammi B. Young (who also designed Boston’s Custom House) and Alexander H. Bowman. An addition along the west wing shortly followed suit during 1855-1864. This façade that features ten columns along its exterior was designed by Isaiah Rogers. The final wing addition occurred along the north side and was built between 1868 and 1869. This addition, which would enclose the structure, was designed by Alfred B. Mullett who also oversaw construction of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building.

Reservations

Free guided tours of the Treasury Building are available upon reservations with your local Congressman. One hour tours are typically offered on Saturdays during the times of 9:00, 9:45, 10:30 and 11:45 a.m. All visitors should arrive via the building’s southern entrance and request access via the call button along the gated fence.
The tour includes a number of highlights to captivate your attention. Visitors are provided the opportunity to visit a former office that was used by President Andrew Jackson for a period after Abraham Lincoln’s death in 1865.

You will likely be in awe within the two-story Cash Room that was constructed of eight different varieties of marble. And a visit to the basement will provide some insight as to the current and prior usages of the fifteen vaults that reside here, including one vault from 1864 that is claimed to be burglar proof. The vaults range in size from 160 square feet to 4,500 square feet, and originally housed currency here from 1863-1880. During the Civil War, the vaults were primarily used for food and weapons storage.

Also located within the basement are shooting ranges used for the training of the Secret Service and other law enforcement agencies. Unfortunately visitors are not allowed to partake in this area. Another commonly mistaken element that visitors anticipate viewing is the production of currency. This actually occurs within the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, where visitors are actually provided the opportunity to watch George Washingtons, Abraham Lincolns, or larger bills roll off the presses.

Two significant statues reside along the building’s north and south facades. These portrait figures are dedicated to Alexander Hamilton and Albert Gallatin. Also, if you catch yourself walking along the western façade of the Treasury Building keep your eyes peeled for a reproduction of the Liberty Bell which resides here.

• Website: http://www.treasury.gov/about/education/Pages/edu_fact-sheets_building_history.aspx
• Address:1500 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW,Washington,DC
• Cost: Free

Iwalked Washington D C's Andrew W Mellon Memorial Fountain aka ZodiacFountain

Iwalkedaudiotours.com - Located just outside of the front entrance to the National Gallery of Art is a fountain which was installed here in 1952. The Andrew W. Mellon Memorial Fountain is named after the former Secretary of the Treasury (from 1921 to 1932) and was a gift from friends of Mr. Mellon who donated $300,000 for a memorial in his honor. The fountain consists of three tiers of bronze basins that flow into a granite base. Carved within the base are a series of zodiac symbols said to be arranged so that on the vernal equinox (March 21) the sign of Aries aligns with the sun’s light. These symbols have led to the fountain’s nickname as the “Zodiac Fountain.”

ZodiacFountain

• Website: http://dcmemorials.com/index_indiv0000330.htm
• Address: Intersection of 4th Street, NW and Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC
• Cost: Free

Iwalked Washington D.C.’s White House (Haunted Tales)

Iwalked Washington D.C.’s White House (Haunted Tales) - In our official White House blog tour we discussed some of the most important tenants of the White House including past Presidents and their spouses, but some of these “past” occupants are still rumored to be “current” tenants. Ironically despite having a reputation as being one of the most haunted locales within all of Washington, only two past Presidents have actually died within the building. The first was William Henry Harrison, the ninth President of the United States, who holds the distinction of both having delivered the longest inaugural speech ever (whilst in the freezing rain mind you), and also maintaining the shortest presidential term at only thirty days. Ironically the two records are related as he died after contracting pneumonia while delivering his prolonged speech. The other president to pass away in the White House was Zachary Taylor, the twelfth President of the United States, who also died under somewhat odd circumstances. Taylor it seems caught stomach flu after eating an abundance of cherries and cold milk. He became ill from his over-indulgence and passed away five days later.

Perhaps the most commonly cited haunted incidents regarding the White House revolve around the ghost of former President Abraham Lincoln. One famous story regarding Lincoln’s ghost involved a visit to the White House by the former Queen of the Netherlands, Wilhelmina Helena Pauline Maria. During her stay she heard a knock at her door and when she went to answer it, she found none other than the former President standing outside. Completely taken off guard, she ended up passing out from the incident. Ironically, it was Lincoln himself who foresaw his own death. He recalled to reporters on one occasion how he dreamed walking through the White House during what appeared to be a somber occasion. He found the source of despair when he noted a coffin lying in state.

White House (Haunted Tales)

He asked someone who was lying in the coffin and they informed him that it was the President. When Lincoln approached the coffin he was surprised to see his own face looking back up at him within. One President publicly declared a desire to see Mr. Lincoln but professed he has not. Ronald Reagan was commented on the topic as saying, “I don’t have any fear at all. I think it would be wonderful to have a little meeting with him and very probably helpful.”

Two other famous ghosts said to roam the halls of the White House include two noted First Ladies. The first is the former wife of second President John Adams, Abigail, who is said to continue about her chores in the East Room. While the White House was still under construction during her husband’s term of office she often hung her laundry in this room and is said to be seen to continue to do so on occasion. The second ghostly guest apparently splits time with her former home (the Cutts-Madison House) where she is also claimed to haunt. It is rumored that Dolley Madison’s apparition has made an appearance on occasions when her former rose garden is unkempt.

• Website: http://www.history.com/topics/ghosts-in-the-white-house
• Address: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC
• Cost: Free

Iwalked Washington D.C.’s National Museum Of Natural History

Iwalked Washington D.C.’s National Museum Of Natural History - I’d like to declare the first stop along our National Mall audio tour as being “unique” or some “hidden treasure” but, alas, this site is a locale that 7.4 million other people visit annually—the National Museum of Natural History. The Natural History museum is the most popular of all of the Smithsonian museums and also one of the oldest on the north side of the Mall. This building was the first to be constructed on the northern edge of the Mall on June 20, 1911. The museum originated as the United States National Museum and was originally housed within the Arts and Industries Building. It began via a desire to extend the 100th anniversary of America showcase from the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia. Upon moving all of the exhibits to Washington, however, it quickly began apparent that sufficient space was severely lacking. In response, Congress appropriated a sum of $3.5 million for construction of a new building for which ground was broken on June 14, 1904.

National Museum Of Natural History

The current home of the National Museum of Natural History was designed by the firm of Hornblower & Marshall in the traditional Neoclassical styling of Washington D.C. The building is faced with pink granite from Massachusetts on the ground floor, Vermont granite on the 1st and 2nd floors, and North Carolina granite on the 3rd story. Corinthian columns grace the entrance and a central rotunda resides atop the structure.
Despite the fact that the museum was not officially completed until 1911, it actually opened on March 17, 1910. The interior contains some 1.5 million square feet of exhibits said to contain on the upwards of 126 million items. Being a Smithsonian building, admission is free and hours typically range from 10 am – 5:30 pm every day less Christmas.

If you wish to take some time to explore the National Museum of Natural History, let us give you an overview of “must see” exhibits. Immediately upon entering you will be welcomed by a large African Elephant that stands some fourteen feet tall and is said to weigh eight tons. A couple of popular destinations for children on the first floor are the IMAX theater and the Discovery Room that provides a number of “hands-on” and interactive learning displays. The Kenneth E. Behring Family Hall of Mammals contains a mass of mounted animals, some of which are attributed to President Theodore Roosevelt. By far the most noteworthy destination though is the Dinosaur Hall complete with Tyrannosaurus Rex dueling a 65-million-year-old Triceratops nicknamed “Hatcher” (in honor of the paleontologist who discovered his fossils in 1891).

As you make your way up to the second floor you may enjoy the Egyptian exhibits, Easter Island Stone Head, Insect zoo, and Gem/Mineral collection. Outside of the approximate 35,000 meteorites housed within the gem and mineral collection, the most popular specimen is the 45.52 carat Hope Diamond. The Hope Diamond is estimated to be more than one billion years old and is the largest blue diamond in the world. Its history has long been tied to a series of tragedies for each of its prior owners. One of the diamond’s first owners, Marie Antoinette (queen to King Louis XVI of France) was executed via guillotine in 1793 in response to the French Revolution.

A prominent Washingtonian heiress, Evalyn Walsh McLean soon lost her two-year old son, her mother-in-law (possibly debatable as to whether a tragedy), and saw her husband lose his fortune all subsequent to her acquiring the Hope Diamond. Today the diamond is owned by a New York jeweler named Harry Winston who first donated it to the Smithsonian for display in 1958.

Before leaving the museum, make sure you take notice of a work of public art near the Constitution Avenue entrance. This work by Ignacio Perez Solano is titled Colossal Head and was added to this location on October 19, 2001.

• Website: http://www.mnh.si.edu/
• Address: Intersection of 10th Street, NW and Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC
• Cost: Free

Iwalked Washington D C's Alexander Pushkin Statue

Iwalked Washington D C's Alexander Pushkin Statue - The statue of the originator of present day Russian written work is arranged in the gathered Pushkin Park, ROVA Farms, Cassville section of Jackson Township. It is a waist length picture of Alexander Pushkin, wearing long sideburns and wearing standard nineteenth century respectful colleagues' dress. The material he holds contains an etching in Russian. The statue is painted dim and is presented on top of a diminished stone base.

Alexander Pushkin Statue

Regardless, how did the historic point arrive? It was raised on the 150th remembrance of the Russian craftsman, in 1949, by inhabitants of ROVA farms, an incredible place which was seen as a late spring resort all through a vast segment of the twentieth century.

The record of this place began in 1934 when The Russian Consolidated Mutual Aid Society of America, known by the acronym of its Russian name, ROOVA or ROVA, obtained 1,600 segments of place that is known for land in Cassville, NJ in Jackson Township, a central region between the Russian-American society in Philadelphia and New York. The overall population set up a nation social concentration called ROVA Farm (calmly alluded to in the plural as ROVA Farms) which transformed into a place of significant and social centrality to the Russian-American society.

It was a place where Russian laborers gathered for summer journeys, acquired houses, and where their children went to camp. The people who went there normally refreshed in one-room holds up and spent most of their days out in the open living approaches. Summers were spent on the lake, where people took an interest in swimming, cruising, and calculating. Gradually, an extensive parcel of the Russian vacationers settled and ROVA farms framed into a gigantic Russian society. In 1940, St. Vladimir Memorial church was worked there on the 950th recognition of the gathering of Christianity in Russia, as a tribute to St. Sovereign Vladimir. Nowadays it is the fundamental bit of the settlement which has any activity.

Iwalked Washington D.C.’s Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Iwalked Washington D.C.’s Vietnam Veterans Memorial - “The names would become the memorial.” That is how twenty-one year old Maya Lin from Athens, Ohio described her entry to design one of the most controversial monuments for one of the most controversial wars in U.S. history. Plans for a memorial were initiated in 1979 via a former veteran from the war, Jan Scruggs. Just one year later, Congress formally approved a national monument and set aside two acres on the western portion of Constitution Gardens for its creation. More than 275,000 Americans donated $8.4 million to the cause of building the monument, of which no federal dollars were required. The monument was formally dedicated on November 11, 1993.

An anonymous submission process was used to select the winning design of the memorial. One thousand four hundred and twenty-one entries were received before entry #1026 was selected unanimously as the winner on May 1, 1981. The design came from an architecture student at Yale University who had created the design as part of her funerary architecture class during her senior year. Despite only receiving a “B” grade for her design at Yale, Lin’s design is now viewed by over three million Americans annually.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Lin currently owns a studio in New York City and continues to design popular works of art throughout other major cities. Perhaps her next best recognized work is the Civil Rights Memorial in Montgomery, Alabama (1989). An Oscar-winning documentary about Lin’s life and the hardships and joys presented to her via the creation of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was released in 1995, “Maya Lin: A Strong Clear Vision.”

Lin’s design raised some controversy at the time of its unveiling. Some described it as an open scar, while others embraced its simplicity. The memorial consists of two triangular black granite walls (quarried from Bangalore, India) that measure 246 feet and 8 inches long, and continues to grow as they converge to a height of ten feet and eleven and a half inches. The walls are set at one hundred twenty-five degree angles from each other with one wall pointed towards the Washington Monument and the other towards the Lincoln Memorial. Inscribed on each wall are the names of every American who was either killed, deemed missing in action or a taken prisoner of war.

There are currently 58,272 names etched on the wall in .53 inch font. When the wall was first constructed it contained 57,939 names. The earliest of these names dates back to 1959 with the latest added in May 2010. These individuals passed away as a result of injuries obtained during the war. There have been known instances of names that have made it onto the memorial where the person did not actually die. Up to thirty-eight potential instances have been identified where clerical errors may have contributed to this misclassification.


If you look closely at each name you will notice a symbol resides next to each one. A diamond signifies that the person died as a result of the war. A cross means that the person was either a prisoner of war or his/her status is still not officially accounted for. And in some occasions a circle has been placed around a cross demonstrating the missing person was later found alive.

Visitors are allowed to take away a rubbing of any names of family or friends. Park rangers are available to provide both commemorative paper and pencils to assist in your effort. In addition, in the event that you are unable to reach a particular name the rangers will also help you on this front as well. To find particular names, there are either books (located at each end of the memorial) or a computerized database within the information booth that provide guidance on where to look.

While many visitors are content to walk away with a remembrance from the memorial, others have been known to leave tokens of remembrance or tribute. Since 1984, the National Park Service has begun to collect each of the items left outside the memorial on a daily basis. All items are kept and maintained within the Museum Resource Center and many have been displayed within the National Museum of American History. There are said to be more than 150,000 objects left here including the likes of a Harley Davidson motorcycle and a tiger cage.

Two sculptures have been added to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial since its original unveiling. These include the Three Servicemen sculptured by Frederick E. Hart and the Vietnam Women’s Memorial by Glenna Goodacre.

• Website: http://thewall-usa.com/


• Address: Intersection of 21st Street, NW and Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC


• Cost: Free

Iwalked Washington D.C.’s Fdr Memorial Tidal Basin – Room Two (“SocialPolicy”)

Iwalked Washington D.C.’s Fdr Memorial Tidal Basin – Room Two (“Social Policy”) - The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Tidal Basin was the fourth memorial dedicated to a U.S. president located on the National Mall. Ironically Roosevelt, the only American President elected more than two terms, was actually opposed to the idea of being honored via a public monument. Despite his reservations, Roosevelt was quoted once as commenting to his good friend Supreme Court Justice Felix Frankfurther, “If they are to put up any memorial to me, I should like it to be placed in the center of that green plot in front of the Archives Building.” Although the site had to be moved to make room for this massive 7.5 acre monument, Congress did approve erection of a fitting tribute in 1955.

Memorial Tidal Basin

The memorial consists of four “rooms,” each of which represents one of Roosevelt’s presidential terms. In Room Two we move onto a reflection of FDR’s second term (1936-1940) titled “Social Policy.” The centerpieces of the room revolve around three sculptures by artist George Segal (known for his Gay Liberation sculpture in New York’s Christopher Park). The sculptures are set to depict three various emotions of hope, hunger and despair.

The first sculpture, Fireside Chat, shows a man leaning forward on a wooden chair while listening to one of Roosevelt’s famed radio addresses. Another sculpture, The Breadline, features five male figures in their trench coats and hats awaiting a ration of food. Lastly, The Rural Couple, depicts a male and female (assumingly man and wife) with a somber and tired looking expression on their faces. Also within this room is a large five panel bronze mural titled Social Programs. Depicted on the mural are random images of hands and faces interspersed with scenes symbolizing the various fifty-four programs from the period.

Iwalked Washington D.C.’S White House

Iwalked Washington D.C.’S White House - When Pierre Charles L’Enfant was hired to design Washington D.C., part of his commission was to propose on the design of a grand new “Presidential Palace.” Unfortunately, L’Enfant was fired for insubordination prior to “getting around” to sharing his vision. In response, a design contest was held in 1792 for which nine proposals would be submitted. The winner of the contest would receive for their efforts $500 or a medal of equal value. Second prize would offer the sum of $150. The second place entry was awarded to an architect from Richmond, VA, John Collins, who submitted his entry under the pseudonym “A.Z.” The design was said to emulate the Villa Rotunda just outside of Vicenza, Italy. Its entry has long been speculated to have been submitted by Thomas Jefferson, however, no direct evidence to confirm this has ever been found. The first prize was awarded to a self-taught Irish-born architect named James Hoban on July 17, 1792. Hoban’s design called for construction of a home that drew inspiration from the Leinster House in Dublin, Ireland.

Washington D.C.’S White House

Construction on the White House would commence on October 13, 1792. Ironically, in very un-Washingtonian fashion, no formal ceremony was held. The building would be constructed over an eight-year period and was ready for occupancy on November 1, 1800. John Adams, the second President of the United States, was the first president to reside here. Washington, who oversaw a vast amount of the building’s construction, unfortunately never had the opportunity to live within the Presidential Palace. Adam’s residency would not last too long either though as he was only able to live within the White House during the final four months of his presidency.

When President Thomas Jefferson moved into the home in 1801 he was full of criticism of the building (perhaps in response to losing the design competition). Upon moving onto the premise Jefferson declared the property too big by stating it was, “big enough for two emperors, one Pope and the grand lama.” And Jefferson’s response to this declaration? Well, he immediately began making revisions to the structure by hiring US Capitol architect Benjamin Latrobe. These alterations included the addition of single-story wings to either side of the main building for added storage to Jefferson’s “already too big” home.


In August 1814, during the War of 1812, the British began to overtake the city of Washington and many occupants began to flee. Amongst those who left the city were President James Madison and his wife Dolley. Prior to her departure Dolley grabbed a copy of Gilbert Stuart’s famous portrait of George Washington (known to many as that which graces every $1 bill) while other aides ensured the safety of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution. On August 14, 1814, the British officially set the White House to torch and the building would only be saved by the hard rains falling from the sky that evening. James Hoban would be brought back in March 1815 to begin to reconstruct the charred remains of his original design. During his reconstruction, Hoban added a series of porticos to the building’s north and side and also painted the entire structure white. Some has theorized that Hoban’s decision to paint the building white was to cover-up the smoke and burn stains that resided on the exterior.

Hoban’s revitalized White House was a social curiosity to one famed visitor in the 19th Century and also the site of a historic first a few years later. In 1842, the White House was visited by esteemed author Charles Dickens who later wrote of his unique experience. Expecting a warm reception upon arrival Dickens was taken aback when he arrived with his official White House invite and found no one to greet him. Instead he escorted himself onto the premises and inspected the entire property without an intervention or being questioning during his exploration. A few years later the White House was the happy site of the only marriage ceremony for a U.S. President when Grover Cleveland, the 22nd and 24th President of the United States (and only president to serve two non-consecutive terms), married Frances Folsom. The wedding which occurred on June 2, 1886 was held within the White House’s Blue Room.

The White House would not see its next significant structural changes until just after the turn of the 20th century when a number of changes were set to occur. During President Theodore Roosevelt’s administration, he oversaw the addition of increased living space within the building’s third story attic. It was also Roosevelt who coined the official nickname of the White House around this time in 1901. Two other significant changes which would be implemented over the ensuing years included the additions of the West Wing and Oval Office. Originally known as the Yellow Room, the Oval Office served a number of purposes before becoming the official offices to the President of the United States. For instance, Thomas Jefferson was known to use it for practicing his violin. Woodrow Wilson, meanwhile, found the room a romantic setting sufficient to propose to his second wife, Edith Bolling. The last significant addition to the White House would occur in 1942 when President Franklin Delano Roosevelt authorized construction of the East Wing which would occur in 1942. This final alteration would provide the symmetry of the building you see today.

Public tours of the White House are available, however, be prepared to plan ahead. Requests must be made a minimum of twenty one days in advance through your local Congressman and it is recommended that you provide your request up to six months in advance. Tours, as provided, may be offered Tuesday-Thursday 7:30-11:00am, Fridays 7:30am-12pm and Saturdays 7:30am-1pm. Please note, tours are typically offered only to U.S. citizens unless coordinated through your local embassy and providing a request directly through them.

Fun facts that you may learn as part of your tour include insight as to the building’s architecture, history and occupants. For instance you may learn how the White House requires five hundred seventy gallons of paint. When the exterior was recently restored in 1996, workers found up to twenty-eight coats of this paint (some of which covered the fire damage from 1814)! In relation to occupants, you may also get to witness or cross paths with one of the five full-time chefs on-site that may serve on the upwards of up to one hundred forty guests on any one occasion.
To learn about famous ghosts and haunts of the White House you may

• Website: http://www.whitehouse.gov/
• Address: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC
• Cost: Free

Iwalked Washington D.C.’s Blair House

Iwalked Washington D.C.’s Blair House - The Blair House is the official guest house for visitors of the White House. When guests, such as foreign dignitaries come to visit, they stay within this 70,000 square foot, 119 room complex that is larger than the White House itself. The flag of the nation from which the dignitaries are visiting is always flown outside of the Blair House to signify that the residence is, at least for the given period of the visit, considered foreign soil. Residency within the Blair House can also be tough to come by. When President Obama and his family moved to Washington and were seeking a place to stay prior to his inauguration, they were rebuffed and informed that the home was currently being occupied by the former Prime Minister of Australia.

Blair House

The Blair House began as a single home at 1651 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, but has since expanded to into four adjoining townhouses. The original building was constructed as a two-story structure in 1824 and was designed in the Federal style with a brick façade. The brick was later covered over with stucco and subsequently modernized to its current limestone exterior. Other later alterations to the building included the addition of a third and fourth story in the early 1850s.

The residence at 1651 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW was designed by an unknown architect for Joseph Lovell, the eight Surgeon General of the United States Army. Upon Lovell’s passing in 1836, the building was purchased by Francis Preston Blair for the sum of $6,500. Blair was an American journalist and politician who served as an advisor to President Andrew Jackson. Through his role as editor of the Congressional Globe newspaper, Blair was deemed a highly influential advisor to Jackson and considered a part of Jackson’s elite “Kitchen Cabinet.”

In 1859, Blair acquired the adjoining red brick Federal style home at 1653 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW. Blair had purchased the home as a gift to his daughter and her husband, Rear Admiral of the Navy, Samuel Phillips Lee. Samuel was related to the former Confederate General Robert E. Lee as the two were distant (third) cousins. In fact, it was at this residence that Robert had formerly turned down the opportunity to command the Union Army as offered by Francis Blair on April 18, 1861. The two other neighboring homes that would be integrated into the Blair-Lee home (700 Jackson Place and 704 Jackson Place) were each constructed in 1860.

The Blair Home was acquired by the U.S. government in 1942 for the purpose of needed guest space. A legend around the reason for this off-site hotel for White House guests has long been told surrounding Winston Churchill’s former overnight stays. Allegedly Mr. Churchill was noted for his love of staying up late and enjoying his brandy and cigars. After one especially long evening Eleanor Roosevelt decided she had had enough of Winston’s “bad influence” on her husband and demanded that a guest house be found as a solution for future guests.

One last tale regarding the Blair House revolves around an assassination plot on President Harry Truman that actually occurred here on November 1, 1950. Two Puerto Rican Nationalists named Griselio Torresola and Oscar Collazo literally walked up to Blair House and opened fire on security guards around the house. A White House Policeman, Leslie Coffelt, was mortally wounded in the shootout, but he managed to stagger out of his guard booth and take out Torresola before he perished himself. Collazo would be arrested and spend twenty-nine years in a federal prison before being released in September 1979.

• Website: http://www.blairhouse.org/home.html


• Address: 1651-1653 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC


• Cost: Free to view from exterior. No tours are available

Iwalked New York City’s Washington Square – Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument

Iwalked New York City’s Washington Square – Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument - The Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument is dedicated to an Italian general, politician and patriot who is nicknamed the “Sword of Unification” for his efforts in helping to unify Italy in the 19th century. Garibaldi spent four years in America on nearby Staten Island before actually returning home and leading his revolutionary efforts. During his brief stint in America, President Lincoln actually offered Garibaldi a military position to be served here in the United States. The position offered in 1862 would have been to serve as a Major General with the Union Army during the American Civil War. Garibaldi was said to have considered Lincoln’s offer but claimed he would only accept if Lincoln would publicly declare the Civil War’s purpose as the abolition of slavery. Lincoln, concerned over the ramifications of such a statement declined, and thus so did Garibaldi.

Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument

The Garibaldi Monument was designed by Giovanni Turini, who also created the bronze bust of Giuseppe Mazzini within Central Park. The work was officially unveiled in 1888, on the sixth anniversary of Garibaldi’s death. Due to renovations within the park, the statue had to be moved on one occasion fifteen feet east for the construction of new paths in 1970. During this time, a time capsule was discovered hidden within the monument which contained newspapers and other articles that highlighted the achievements of Garibaldi.

Iwalked Washington D.C.’s Martin Luther King Jr., National Memorial

Iwalked Washington D.C.’s Martin Luther King Jr., National Memorial - The Martin Luther King Jr., National Memorial is the latest addition to the National Mall, having opened to the public on August 22, 2011. The $120 million memorial is situated on four-acres near the Jefferson Memorial and is entered through a massive stone (titled the Mountain of Despair) that has had the central portion cut out of it. Surrounding the centerpiece is a 450-foot crescent-shaped wall of granite known as the Inscription Wall. Etched within this wall is text from fourteen of Dr. King’s most noted speeches. The speeches selected range from the Montgomery Bus Boycotts in 1955 up until his final speech in Washington D.C. at the National Cathedral just four days before his assassination. Surprisingly, none of the quotes are from King’s most famous speech of, “I Have a Dream.”

Martin Luther King Jr.

Located within the heart of the memorial is a thirty-foot sculpture of Dr. King with arms folded titled the “Stone of Hope.” Although the work appears as one continuous piece, it was actually sculpted from one hundred fifty nine individual pieces of granite and assembled into the work you see now. Located on the side of the statue are two noted quotes from King. Inscribed on one side is, “I was a drum major for justice, peace and righteousness.” When asked how he would like to be remembered, this was the response which King provided. The second quote on the opposite side serves as fitting symbolism, “Out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope.”

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the inspiration for this memorial, was assassinated on April 4, 1968. He had dedicated his life to peaceful protest and was taken from us too early at the age of thirty-nine when James Earl Ray shot King at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee while standing on the second-floor balcony. From 1979 through 1982 attempts were made to propose a national holiday honoring Dr. King. Finally on November 2, 1983 President Ronald Reagan signed a bill that formalized the holiday which would be celebrated on the third Monday of January each year, around the time of King’s birthday, January 15.

Efforts began to institute a national memorial further honoring King on November 12, 1996. On this date, President Clinton signed into legislation a bill that allowed for the creation of such a tributary monument in Washington D.C. The design competition included approximately nine hundred submissions from over 1900 firms across fifty-two countries. The winner selected was entry #1403 by the ROMA design group from San Francisco, California in September 2000. Groundbreaking would not occur until approximately six years later, on November 13, 2006. Attendees to this event included the likes of Oprah Winfrey and a then little known senator named Barrack Obama.

Although this memorial is already wrought with symbolism, the address selected for this site has been given further meaning. The address of 1964 Independence Avenue, SW is a nod to the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the year in which King won the Nobel Peace Prize.