KEIM'8 HAND-BOOK, Class ___ Book__ J \ School ) Washington and its Environs: AN ILLUSTRATED DESCRIPTIVE AND HISTORICAL HAND-BOOK CAPITAL OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, BY DeB. RANDOLPH KEIM, IVashington Correspondent^ AUTHOR OF " Sheridan's troopers on the borders" and "sketches OF SAN DOMINGO," Revised Annually.— Edition for 1874. [second edition.] WASHINGTON CITY: FOR THE COMPILER. 1874. Gcrf^-^ Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1874, BY DeB RANDOLPH KEIM, In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. U. ^. Li 4-^ M'GILL A WITHEROW, PKINTERS AND STEREOTYPERfi, WASHINGTON, D. C. CONTENTS. [See Alphabetical Index at the end of the Hand-book.] Page. Preface v General Information vii Hotels, vii— Lodgings, vii— Boarding, viii— Restaurants, viii— Railroads, viii— Steamers, ix— Street Cars, ix— Vehicles for hire, xii— City Post Office, xii— Mails, xii— Rates of Postage, xiii— Telegraph Offices, xiii— Churches, xiii— Theatres, xiv— General Amusements, xiv— Etiquette, Ceremonies, and For- malities, xiv— Distances from Washington, xix— Foreign Dis- tances, xix— Differences of Time, xx. Section I. Washington and the District of Columbia 1 Washington, 1— District of Columbia, 5. Section II. Description OF the City 15 Avenues, Squares, Statues, &c. Section III. Public Buildings and Grounds 55 Historical Retrospect, 55— Capitol, 56 — History of Congress, 118— President's House, 121— Department of State, 128— Treas- ury Department, 131— War Department, 136— Navy Depart- ment, 140— Department of the Interior, 142— Patent Office, 145— General Post Office, 151— Department of Justice, 154 — Department of Agriculture, 156— Naval Observatory, 163— Army Medical Musuem, 166— Government Printing Office, 168— Winder's Building, 170— City Hall, 171— Arsenal, 172— Navy- Yard, 174— Marine Barracks, 176— Magazines, 177 Section IV. Places of General Interest 178 Smithsonian Institution, 178— Corcoran Gallery of Art, ISO- Washington National Monument, 192"Armory, 196~Churches, 197— Halls, 198— Newspaper Offices, 199— Public Schools, 201— Asylums, 202— Cemeteries, 205— District Government, 207— Markets, 209— Places of Historical Interest, 210. (iii) IV CONTENTS. Section V. The Environs OF Washington 211 Section VI. History of Washington 234 Index 244 List of Maps, Plans, and Diagrams. Map of the District of Columbia and surrounding coun- try, before title page. Plan of Washington, facing page 14 Diagram of Main Bronze Door 67 Plan of the Principal Floor of the Capitol 78 Diagram of the Senate Bronze Door 90 Diagram of the Floor of the Senate 98 Diagram of the Floor of the House of Kepresentatives... 110 Abbreviations. N., S., E., W., north, northern, northward, south, &c., east, &c., west., &c. ; m., mile ; sq. m., square mile ; lbs., pounds; r., right; 1., left"; hr., hour; min., minute; yr., year; a., acres; av., avenue; st., street; yds., yards. PEEFAOE The necessity of a reliable and complete Descriptivb AND Historical Hand-book to the Capitaij of the United States has long been felt. Warden's Geographical and Statistical Description of the District of Columbia, pub- lished in Paris in 1816, and the several editions of the Guides compiled by William Elliott, 1826 and 1830, and George Wat- terson, 1848, are really the only ones which possess the merit of original research. The productions of a similar character published since 1848, and especially the later ones, have been crude and imperfect, impositions in character and price, and noticeable only as containing the smallest amount of informa- tion for the largest amount of money. The compiler of the present work hopes to avoid these objections at least, and to give to the public a Hand-book of attractive and useful descriptive information about all places of interest in and around Washington, and at the same time to supply some appropriate historical data which may be valuable to carry away as a souvenir of a visit to the Seat of Government. In the preparation of the historical portions of the Hand- book TO Washington and its Environs, original author- ities only have been examined, including the manuscript rec- ords, correspondence, and proceedings of the Commissioners charged with the superintendence of the building of the city, 1791-1800 ; the correspondence of George Washington, Thom- as Jefferson, and others on the same subject ; the Statutes at Large ; official documents, from the establishment of the per- manent Seat of Government down to the present time; besides the writings of travelers and public men and files of news- papers. Eespecting the descriptive features, all points of interest in the city and surroundings, still in existence, have been personally visited and inspected. It is hoped, therefore, that the Hand-book will prove not only an invaluable companion on the spot, but an ever-wel- come and entertaining friend for future perusal and refer- ence at the home fireside. The compiler is under obligations to many of the officers (V) VI PREFACE. of the Government ; and while desiring to recognize their kindness, finds it diflScult to make distinctions by mdividuals : he therefore thanks them all. A map of the District, plan of the city, and several dia- grams have been introduced to facilitate inqim-ies and exami- nation. Many illustrations, engraved by J. C. Lyons, esq. and others, liave also been added, to aid in recalling the appearance of the principal places. The general information has been compiled with special reference to the necessities of the stranger in the city, and, in connection with other useful matter, will be found to con- tam trustworthy intelligence respecting railways, hotels, churches, theatres, &c. The code of Etiquette in Washing- ton and Street-car Directory will be found particularly con- venient and valuable. The remaining features of the Hani>book will appear as the reader familiarizes himself with its contents. In a city like the capital of such a constantly expanding Kepublic as the United States of America there are never- ending changes. To keep pace with these, it is the intention to annually revise and augment the HAND-BOOK TO Wash- ington AND ITS Envibons, SO as to keep it at all times cor- rected to the latest period. The compiler does not presume that the Hand-book is faultless ; but to approximate such a degree of completeness, as far as practicable, will constantly be his endeavor. He will therefore be grateful for any errors or omissions pointed out or corrections suggested. These may be communicated by letter. DeB. R. K. Washington, D. C, 1874. GENERAL INFORMATION. J-^^^HOSE who are influenced by a desire to visit the ^■"^^ National Capital, when most attractive in point of beauty of nature and art, and without reference to the fashionable and congressional season, should arrive in May or June, or October or November. .,. . The hottest months are July and August. The winters, on the other hand, are generally mild and beautiful. The health of the city at all seasons is imexceptionable. For official and social seasons see Etiquette. Hotels. — The National Capital has a number of hotels, some of which will compare favorably with the best in the country. They are all located upon or conveniently acces- sible to the different lines of street cars connecting the Ex- ecutive Departments with the Capitol and western and east- ern portions of the city. The following are the principal hotels and charges per day : The Arlington., Vermont av., near H st. N., $5; Ebhitt, F st., comer of 14th st. W., $4 00; Willards\ Pennsylvania av., corner of 14th st. W., $4 50; Metropolitan., Pennsylvania av., between 6th and 7th sts. W., 64; Imperial, E st. N., between 13th and 14th sts. W., $4; and National., Pennsylvania av., corner of 6tli st. W., $4. The hotels on the European plan are the >S7. James., Penn- sylvania av., corner of 6th st. W., single rooms, one person, $1 to $2 ; double rooms, two persons, $2 to $6 ; the latter in- cludes parlor and bed-room; restaui-ant attached; and St. Marc, Pennsylvania av., near 7th st. W., single rooms $1 to $2, double $2 to $3; restaurant attached. There are also other hotels on the American and European plans suited to all classes of persons, and at lower rates. Lodgings. — Persons desiring to pass some time in Wash- ington, and desirous of living retired, can find excellent lodg- ings in the vicinity of all the hotels, and in different parts of the city. The large transient population of the city has cre- ated an unusual demand for this style of accommodations, and every grade, from elegant suites down to unpretending single apartments, may be found. The rates for rooms (vii) nil GENERAL INFORMATION. would range from $25 for single rooms to $100 and upwards a month for suites. Persons remaining less than a month can also be supplied with quarters. Boarding, — Many houses in which lodgings can be secured also provide daily board, ranging from $25 to $35 a month for each person. The hotels also accommodate outside boarders at $45 a month for each person. Eestaurants. — A number of excellent restaurants can be found in all the business portions of the city. Frequently persons find it more convenient to have lodgings and take theh- meals nearest where tliej'' may happen to be at the iiour of dining. The charges at restaurants are about the same as at hotels or boarding-houses, according to grade. There are several excellent restaurants equal in appoint- ments to any in the large cities of the Il^'orth. Cuisine excellent. Railroads. — {See Table of Distances.) — Persons departing from Wasliington have a choice of several routes. North, East, and West.— Baltimore and Ohio Railroad — Depot NE. corner of jSTew Jersey av. and C st. XW., may be reached by the blue cars on Pennsylvania av. and the F-st. cars. Ticket Offices^ 485 Pennsylvania av. and the Depot. North, East, and West.— Baltimore and Potomac Railroad— Depot SW. corner of B and 6th sts. NW., maj be reached by street cars on 9th st., and witliin one square on Pennsylvania av. Ticket Offices^ 13th and 6th sts. and Pennsylvania av. and Depot. South and Southwest. — Southern trains leave from the Baltimore and Potomac Depot. Travellers may also leave Washington by the Potomac Ferry Company, at the foot of 7tli St. W., and take trains at the corner of King and Union sts., Alexandria, for Richmond. and Xew Orleans. Transfer coaches convey passengers from the Baltimore and Oliio Depot to the Baltimore and Potomac Depot and Poto- mac Ferry. Alexandria. — Local trains on the Alexandria and Wash- ington Railroad leave from the Baltimore and Potomac Depot about every hour during the day. Sleeping Cars are attached to all through night trains. Tickets may be procured at railroad ticket offices. Baggage will be called for and checked to all the princi- pal cities of the United States, by leaving orders at the rail- road ticket offices. GENERAL INFORMATION. IX !.— Alexandria— The Washington and Al- exandria Ferry steamers ply hourly each way between Washhif^ton and Alexandria durino^ the day. Wharf foot of 7th St., Washington, and King St., Alexandria. Fare, single trip 15 cents, round trip 25 cents. Mount Vernon. — The steamer for Mount Vernon leaves the 7th-st. wharf daily, except Sunday, at 10 A. M. Return- ing, arrives at Washington at 4 p.m. Fare, $1.50, and ad- mission to mansion and grounds. QuANTico. — Potomac Steamboat Company— Steam- ers leave daily, at 7 A. M., from the 7tli-st. wharf, for Quan-. tico^ connecting with trains for Richmond and the South. Potomac Landings.— The Palisades, on Mondays and Thursdays, 7 A. M., and Pilot Boy, on Tuesdays and Fridays, 7 A. M., during navigation, from 7th-st. wharf. Baltimore and Intermediate Landings. — Three steamers a week, during the season of navigation, leaving Mondays, 7 P. M., Tuesdays, 9 p. m., and Fridays, 12 mid- night, from the 7th-st. wharf. New York. — The Washington and New York steam- ers leave Fridays, from the foot of High st., Georgetown. Philadelphia. — Steamers leave Georgetown (Water st.) on Tuesdays and Satm-days, at 10 A. M., via canal, till navi- gation closes. Boston and Norfolk. — Steamers of the Washington, Norfolk, and Boston Line leave the 7th-st. wharf Mon- days and Thursdays, at 2 P. M., touching at all principal landings, and connecting with the Richmond and Boston steamers. This line usually suspends during the winter months. The wharves of all the Washington lines may be reached by the 7th-st. horse-cars. Street Oars. — All parts of Washington may be reached by street-cars. Washington and Georgetown Street Railway, incor- porated 1862, cars every 3, 4, and 5 min. during the daj^, start on Bridge st., at High, Georgetown, cross Rock Creek over a fine iron bridge, follow Pennsylvania av., passing Mills' Statue of Washington, Corcoran Art Gallery, Lafayette Square, War Department, President's House, and Treasury. At the intersection of 15th st. W. they connect with tlie cars on the lUh Street and Columhia Railioays. Exchange tick- ets given for the former. At the S. end of the Treasury they again enter Pennsylvania av., which they follow the entire length of the business quarter of the city, passing the Centre Market and Botanical Garden. At 9th st, W.they X GENERAL INFORMATION. intercept the Metropolitan line N. and S. ; and at 7th st. W. connect with the cars of the 7th st. branch N. and S. On the latter exchange tickets are given. At the W. gate of the Capitol grounds one branch turns to the 1. for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Depot eveiy 10 min. daring the day, and the otlier to the r. for the Capitol or Navy Yard^ every 5 min . during the day. At the top of the hill a branch carries pas- sengers to the E. front of tJie House^ or S. extensioii of the Capitol. The main line continues along B st. S. to Pennsyl- vania av., and thence to 8th st. E., thence passing the Marine Barracks to the Navy Yard. Fourteenth-Street Branch, cars every 10 min. dur- ing the day, start on New York av. at 15th st. Vf., NE. of the Treasury Department, thence to 14th st., thence N. to boundary, passing the Fourteenth-Street Circle and State Department. Exchange tickets are given on the Pennsyl- vania av. line. Seventh-Street Branch, cars every 4 and 5 min. dur- ing the day, start at the boundary, follow the same street across the city to the Potomac river, passing the N. Market, Mount Vernon Place, Patent and Post Offices, and Odd- Fellows' Hall. At Massachusetts av. they intersect the Co- lumbia Railway, and at F st. N. the Metropolitan line. On Pennsylvania av. they connect with the main line. Ex- change tickets given E. or W. The cars now pass the Cen- tre Market, cross the Mall, with the Smithsonion grounds on r., continuing to the wharves for the Alexandria, !Mount Vernon, and other steamers. Metropolitan Railway, incorporated 1864, cars every 4 min. during tlie day, start on 17th st., W. of the Navy and New State Departments, follow 17th st. W.,. passing the State, War, and Navy Departments, and Corcoran Art Gal- lery to H St. ; here the Geoi-getown branch leaves ; thence passing Lafayette Square to i4th st. ; thence to F st., inter- secting the i4th St. and Columbia Railways at New York av. ; connecting with the cars on the 9th st. branch N. and S., on which exchange tickets are given, passing the Patent and Post Offices, and intersecting tlie 7th st. line; thence to 5th St. ; thence to Louisiana av., passing Judiciary Square ; thence to Indiana av., passing the City Hall; thence to C St., passing the Baltimore and Ohio depot to Delaware av. ; thence to B st. N., where the E. Capitol branch leaves; thence to the Senate extension. Georgetown and East Capitol Street Br anch, cars every 6 min. during the day. Same as the main line going W. Cars leave that at H and 17th sts. NW. ; thence to Con- necticut av. ; thence to P st. at the Circle, intei-secting the GENERAL INFORMATION. XI Connecticut av. and Park Railway ; thence along P st., cross- ing Rock Creek over a fine bridge, entering West St., George- town ; thence to High ; thence to Fayette, where it passes the Convent of the Visitation ; thence to 2cl ; thence to High ; thence to Dunbarton; thence to Montgomery; thence to West, wliere the return track follows the outward, back to Washington. The East Capitol extension continues on B st. N. to 1st E.; thence to East Capitol st., and thence to Lin- coln Square, the present terminus. It will be extended E. on the same street to the Anacostia. Ninth Street Branch, cars every 7 and S min. during the day, start at M st. N. ; tlience, passing Mount Vernon Place, the Patent Office and Masonic and Lincoln Halls, toB St. At New York av. they intersect the Columbia Railway. At F st. exchange tickets are given E. and W. OnB st. the cars pass the Centre Market, and intersect the 7th st. line. On 6th St. they pass the Baltimore and Potomac Depot to Ms- souri av. ; thence to 4| st. ; thence to the Arsenal gate. StLVER Springs Branch, when completed, will connect with the 9th st. branch at M st. N. At present it starts at the N. terminus of the 7th st. line, and follows the 7th st. road a distance of 1^ m., passing the Scheutzen Park and Howard University, and terminates at present at the road to the Soldiers' Home and Rock Creek Cliurch. Columbia Railway, incorporated 1870, cars every 10 min. dm-ing the day, start on New York av. at loth st. W., NE. of the Treasury ; thence to H st. At 14th st. they cross the Metropolitan and 14th st. lines ; at 9th st. W. the Metro- politan, passing Mount Vernon Place, to Massachusetts av. At 7th St. they cross that line ; thence to H st. N. ; thence to the boundarj^, passing the Government Printing Office. At the terminus the Baltimore turnpike and Benning's Bridge road commence. Connecticut Avenue and Park Railway, incorpo- rated 1868. The Connecticut av. portion is used by the Me- tropolitan line to Georgetown. A car connects at the P st. Circle, and runs to boundary. Fares. — The rate of fare on the Washington and George- town line is 5 cents, to include a transfer or exchange ticket on the 14th and 7th st. branches N. and S. The fare on the MetrojjoUtan line is 7 cents for single tickets, or ten for 50 cents, or on the 9tli-st. branch five for 25 cents. Transfers N. and S. are given on the 9th-st. branch. The fare on the Columbia line is 5 cts. Further extensions of existing lines, and the construction of new ones, are proposed, in some instances the roadway ha\dng already been laid. Xll GENERAL INFORMATION. Vehicles for hire.— Rates of fare established by law for hacks, cabs, or other vehicle for hire m the District of Co- lumbia. Bet. 5 a. m. and Bet. 12.30 a. m. 12.30 a. m. and 5 a. m. For one or two passengers in a one- f Per h'r, 75 cts. Per h our, $112. horse vehicle. |Pertrip,75 cts. Per trip, $112. For one or two passengers, four- T Per hour, $1 50. Per hour, $2 25. seated vehicle drawn by two ^ Per trip, ex- Per trip, exceed- horses, within the city. |^ ceed'glm.,81. 1 m., $1 50. And for each additional passenger, 50 cts. One mile or less, one half these rates. And for each additional passenger, 50 cts. One mile or less, one half these rates. One-horse vehicle does not include buggies and phaetons. In all cases wliere a vehicle is not engaged by the hour, it will be considered as being engaged by the trip. Special rates are charged for excursions. If there sliould be an overcharge, drive to the nearest police station, where otficers in charge will immediately decide the case. In every case require a ticket of the driver before starting. City Post Office.— General Post Office Building, entrance on F St. General Delivery, 6 a. m. to 11 p. m. Box Delivery, 7 a. m. to 8 p. m. Sunday, 8 to 10 a. m. and 6 to 7 P. M. Letter Carriers' Window on r., open 7 to 8 P. M. Stajnip Office on r. Ladies' Window on the 1. The Mails.— Eastern— for New York, Philadelphia, Bos- ton, tic, due G.30 A. M., 6 P. M. ; close 7 A. M. 8 P. M. AVestern— ^Me G.05, 11.30 A. m., 2, 7 P. M. ; close 6 A. M., 6.45 p. M. ^OVTH.— due 7.20 A. M., 5, 7.25 p. M. ; close 6 A. M., 5.30, 9.20 p.m. Bajltimore, Mb.— due 6.05 A. M., 2, 6, 9 p. M. ; close 7, 10 A. M., 12 M., 8 p. M. ^Georgetown— cZwe 11.45 A. M., 4.45, 8, 10 p. m. ; close 8 A.M., 2, 7 P.M. Alexandria — due 7.45 a. m., 7.20 p. M. ; close 6 A. m., 5.30 P. M. Foreign ;Mails are forwarded daily to New York and San Francisco. GENERAL INFORMATION. Xlll Bates of Postage.— Domestic. — Letters to any part of the United States, 3 cents for each J ounce or fraction thereof. Letters witliin any city, 2 cents where free delivery ; other offices, 1 cent. Kegistered Letters, 8 cents registration fee, in addition to the regular postage. At least one full rate must be paid on letters to secure their transmission. Printed books, package limited to 4 lbs., except books printed by or- der of Congress, 2 cents for each 2 ounces or fraction thereof. Newspapers and magazines 1 cent 2 ounces. All transient matter must be prepaid in full by stamps. Foreign. — The frequent changes in routes and rates rend- ers it advisable to omit a table of foreign postages. All ne- cessary information should be obtained at the Post Office. Money-Orders and Kegistered Letters.— The Mo- ney-Order and Kegistered-Letter Departments are open from 8 A. M. to 4 P. M. Ko business is transacted in either of these departments on Sunday. Entrance to Money-Order and Kegistry Departments, from F St., door E. of delivery. Telegraph Offices.— Automatic. — Principal office, 1409 Penn. av. Franklin.— Principal office, 609 Penn. av. Western Union.— Principal office, Penn. av. and 14th St. W. Branch Offices will be found in all the principal hotels, or near by, and in the Capitol. Ohurclies. — The following list of places of religious worship is merely designed for the use of visitors in the citj'-, and therefore embraces only the representative churches of each denomination. For convenience of reference, it is arranged alphabetically. The usual hour for service is 10.30 to 11 a. M. and 7 to 8 P. M., according to the season of the year. Baptist.— First, 13th st. W., bet. G and H. E-street, E St., bet. 6th and 7th W. Calvary, H and 8th sts. NW. Shi- loh, (Old School,) Mass. av., bet. 9th a\id 10th sts. W. Catholic, Roman.— St. Aloysius, I and N. Capitol st. NW. St. Dominic's, 6th and F. sts. SW. St. Matthew's, H and 15th st. NW. St. Patrick's, 10th and F sts., (rebuilding.) St. Stephen's, Penn. av. and 25th st. NW. Christian.— First, Vermont av., above N" st. NW. Congregational.— First, 10th and G sts. NW. Episcopal, Protestant.— Ascension, H st., bet. 9th and 10th NW. Epiphany, G St., bet. 13th and 14th NW. Rock Creek, near Soldiers' Home. St. John's, 16th and H sts. XIV GENERAL INFORMATION. NW. St. Paul's, (Kitualistic.) 23d st., S. of Circle, NW. Trinity, 3(1 and C sts. NW. Episcopal, Methodist.— Foundry, G and 14th sts. NW. Hamline, cor. 9th and P sts. NW. McKendree, Mass. av., near 9th st. NW. Metropolitan, 4| and C sts. NW. Wesley .Chapel, 5th and F sts. NW. Episcopal, Methodist South.— Mount Vernon, 9th and K sts. NW. Friends.— Orthodox, 13th, bet. R and S sts. NW. Hick- site, I St., bet. 18th and 19tli NW. Meetings, 11 o'clock A. M. German Reformed.— First, 6th and N sts. NW. Ger- man service, a.m. ; English, p. m. Hebrew. — Washington Hebrew Congregation, 8th st., bet. II and I NW. Services every Friday 7 P. M., and Sab- bath (SaturdajO 9 A. M. Lutheran — Trinity, (Unaltered Augsburg Confession,) E and 4th sts. NW. St. Paul's, H and 11th sts NW. Me- morial, N and 14th sts. N. Methodist Protestant. — 9th st., bet. E and F NW. Presbyterian. — First, 4^ st. NW., near the City Hall. Fourth, 9th, bet. G and H sts. NW. New-York Avenue, New-York av., bet. 13th and 14th NW. Unitarian.— D and 6tli sts. NW. Uni VERS ALIST.— Masonic Hall, F and 9th sts. NW. Colored Churches. — Baptist, First, I and 19th sts. N W. Catholic, Roman, St. Martin's, 15th st., near L NW. Epis- copal, St. Mary's, 23d st., bet. G and H NW. Methodist, Asbury, K and 11th sts. NW. Presbyterian, 15th, bet. I and Ksts.NW. Theatres. — The best places of amusement in the city are Ford's Opera Hotise, on 9th st. W,, immediately S. of Penn- sylvania av., and the National Theatre, on E st. N., bet. 13th and 14th sts. NW. Here the standard comedies and trage- dies and plays of the day are performed by excellent stock companies during the winter season, varied at intervals by Italian, German,'^or Ejigllsh opera, and the presence of the- atrical "stars." General Amusements.— Concerts and lectures take place almost every night, and will afibrd recreation for those who prefer this character of entertainment. Etiquette, Ceremonies, and Formalities. — The population of Washington is divided into two classes : official and unoffi- cial, and society admits of the same classification. The first includes those actively associated with the various branches GENERAL INFORMATION. XV and departments of the Government and retired officers of the Army and Navy and families. Tlie second includes resi- dents in the capital not in official employment, and visitors. The Season. — The fashionable season commences Avith the New Year's receptions, and ends with the beginning of Lent. During this period life at the capital is extremely gay. The congressional season begins on the tirst Monday in De- cember of each year, and, with a recess during the Christmas holidays, lasts till March 4 in the odd years and imtil June or July in the even years. During the mouths of July, August, and September, the prominent officials and residents leave the capital for places of summer resort. Receptions. — The reception season begins on New Year's day and lusts till the beginning of Lent. The days for after- noon receptions are arranged among the ladies of the families of the President, Cabinet 'Ministers, and Governor of the Dis- trict. The announcements are made daily during the season in the newspapers. Hours, afternoon, 2 to 5 p. m. ; evening, 8 to 11 p. m. Afternoon receptions are open to all. Evening receptions are by card, unless otherwise announced in the daily .newspapers. Titles — The following are the forms of address used in conversation with certain officials, viz : Mr. President ; to members of the Cabinet, Mr. Secretary, M.v. Postmaster Gen- eral, Mr. Attorney General ; Mr. Chief Justice, Mr. Vice Presi- dent, Mr. Senator, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Justice, for associates of the Supreme Court, and Mr. , for Representatives. The latter frequently have titles, as Judge, &c. Official commu- nications should be addressed, "To the President, "To the Chief Justice," and all otliers "To the Honorable, the Sec- retary of State," &c., or " The Honorable D. W., Secretary of State;" and to members of Congress, Honorable, with the name. The form customary for ladies of officials, is Mrs. President ; ISIi's. General ; Mrs. Secretary, &c. The following form of address for certain officers would be better than those now in vogue : For the Secretary of State, The Premier; other members of the Cabinet, Mr. Minister. Cards. — Whenever a visit is made or reception attended, a card, containing the name and residence in the city, should be sent in, or left with the usher, or in the receiver in the hall. Cards left at afternoon receptions are generally recog- nized by cards to evening receptions. Cards are generally issued to all evening receptions, except those of the President and Speaker of the House of Representatives, and sometimes the General of the Army. In private calls, if the person called upon be out, turn down the right upper corner of the card, to indicate that called in person ; if the call be upon XVI GENERAL INFORMATION. the family, under the same circumstances, turn down the right end. In maldng a farewell call, place P. P. C, on the lower edge of the card. A stranger, in calling upon officials, or at receptions, should, if his name be not announced by an usher or by card, men- tion it himself, so as to prevent embarrassment. Invitations. — In all cases, invitations to dinner should be promptly accepted or declined. It is not obligatory to respond to invitations to evening entertainments, unless re- quired in the letters E. S. V. P., though it is proper to recog- nize them formally. Invitations to evening receptions do not require a reply. The general form of reply is : Mr. S presents his compliments to Secretary , and accepts with pleasure his invitation to dinner Thursday evening. Mon- day, Dec. — , 187 — . The form is the same, with adaptation, for evening entertainments. CAI.LS. — The ladies of officials return calls. The President and wife are not required to return calls ; other members of the family can. The lower officials should always call first upon the higher; and ladies the same ; hours 2 to 5 p. m. Evening calls only allowed for social acquaintances. The first visit received should be returned in three daj^s. Stran- gers, desiring to pay respects to any officials, can do so with propriety during office hours, sending in a card, marked "to pay respects," by the usher. Dress. — For visiting and at all afternoon receptions such di-ess for ladies and gentlemen as is recognized in good soci- ety for morning calls should be worn. At all evening recep- tions and dinner parties^ full evening dress for ladies and gentlemen shoidd be strictly observed ; consisting, for gen- tlemen, of black dress-coat and pantaloons, white neck-tie, and light gloves. The President. — Cabinet days, Tuesdays and Fridays, hours of meeting 12 M. Business hours : During the session of Congress, the President receives Senators and Kepresen- tatives from 10 A. M. to 12 m. every day, except Sunday, and the public, by card through the usher in the ante-room, from 12 M. till 3 P. M., except on Cabinet days and Sundays. The number admitted during hours is governed entirely by the time the President can spare from his public duties. Persons desh-ing to pay their respects only, should note '-^ to pay res- pects'''' on their cards, and call the attention of the officer in in the ante-room thereto. During the adjournment of Con- gress, the President, when not absent from the Capital, usu- ally receives in the morning from 10 A. M. to 12 M. The President and family receive socially in the evening. GENERAL INFORMATION. XVll These visits, liowever, are only made by tliose warranted by their acquaintance to call upon them. Di2)lomatic representatives of foreign governments, upon their first arrival at the Capital, are presented in the Blue- Room, at a time fixed by the Secretary of State, with the consent of the President. The ceremony of presentation consists of an address by the Minister, and a reply by the President. The President's levees are announced through the press. No further invitation is necessary, and all strangers at the Capital are at liberty to call. The hours are usually from 8 to 10 P.M. Music by the ISIarine Band. Ko dress is pre- scribed, though it is eminently pi-oper to appear in the even- ing dress dictated by good society. Enter by the N. door, where the ushers will direct to the cloak rooms. Then enter the Red, and pass into the Blue-Room, where the President receives. Announce name to the Marshal of the District, who presents to the President. The Engineer in charge of Public Buildings and Grounds presents to the wife of the President. After paying respects, in order to make room for others, it is advisable to pass out at once into the Green and thence into the East-Room. The afternoon receptions at the President's House are al- ways held by the wife of the President, on such days as she may select. She is assisted by such ladies as she may invite, generally selected in alphabetical order from the wives of Senators and Members, who, by their official positions, are entitled to such consideration, and any friend. Hours^ 2 to 5 p. m. Ko invitations. Visitors in the city are at liberty to attend. The President, after office hours, often assists. Presentations are made in the Blue Room by the Engineer in charge of Public Buildings and Grounds. Approach as in levees, except that it is customary to leave a card at the door. Enter the Red Room. Dress the same as recognized by good society as suitable for morning calls. These recep- tions afford an excellent opportunity to strangers at the Cap- ital to view the suits of parlors, state dining room, and con- servatories. The latter are open to the public only on these occasions. After leaving the Blue Room, pass into the Green and East Rooms. The corridor which leads from the East Room extends to the conservatories on the W. end. The President, during the winter, gives state dinners^ to which thirtj^-six invitations at a time are issued, and comprise Sen- ators and Representatives, selected alphabetically. Their wives are also included. The President also invites promi- nent officers of the Government in recognized order. On New Year''s day the President receives in the following XVlll GENERAL INFORMATION. order : Members of the Cabinet and Foreign Ministers ; judges of the Supreme Court of the United States; Senators and Representatives in Congress ; the Governor of the Dis- trict of Cokmibia and suite ; judges of the courts of the Dis- trict of Cohimbia and of the tjnited States Coiu-t of Claims ; officers of the army and navy ; Assistant Secretaries of depart- ments ; SoHcitor General ; associations and the public. Chief Justice and Judges of the Supreme Court. — La- dies receive on Monday. Retm-n visits. Fu-st call must be made upon them. Speaker's receptions are announced in the newspapers. General, of the Army.— Reception of lady, ^Mondays. Expect the first call. The General's receptions are by card, miless otherwise announced in the newspapers. Admiral of the I!^avy. — Same as for General of the Army, except evening receptions always by card. The Cabinet. — Tlie ladies of Cabinet Mnisters usually receive on Wednesdays, at which time visitors in the city are at liberty to call, leave cards with and give names to the usher at the door. Evening receptions by card are given by Cabi- net Ministers. The ladies of the Cabinet return visits. The first call must be made npon them. Senators and Representatives. — Ladies receive on Thursdays. Calls must be first made npon them. Governor of the District. — Afternoon receptions of ladies announced in the newspapers. Open to all. Evening by card. First call must be made. Diplomatic Corps. — Invitations are issued to all enter- tainments. Receive calls first. There are also diplomatic evenings for members of the corps and families, and such others as the lady personally invites. Residents.— The ladies of the families of residents at the capital not in official life, call first. Their days at home are generally marked on their cards. Social precedence.— 1, The President; 2, the Chief Justice ; 3, the Vice President : 4, the Speaker ; 5, the Gen- eral of the Army; 6, the Admiral of the Kavy; 7, the Cabi- net, Secretary of State, Treasury, War, Navy, Postmaster General, Secretary of the Interior, and Attorney General ; 8, Senators; 9, Associate Justices; 10, Representatives in Con- gress; and, 11, Governor of the District. Remarks. — General Jackson first introduced bad manners into the society of the President's House. The President, by virtue of his office, of a rigbt occupies the highest social posi- tion in the land, and the observance of the formalities which are recognized in the surroundino^s of any American gentle- man's home should be accorded to the home of the President. GENERAL INFORMATION. XIX Distances from Washington. Capitals of States or Territories are in capital letters. MILES. Albany, N. Y 874 Albuquerque, N.M..215G Alexandria, Va 7 Annapolis, Md 42 Atlanta, Ga 721 Augusta. Me 631 Austin, Texas 1781 Baltimore, Md 40 Boise Citt, Idaho. ..2607 Boston, Mass 458 Brownsville, Tex. ..1046 Buffalo, N.Y 440 (Jairo, Illinois 077 Carson City, Nev...2050 Charleston, S. C 587 Cheyenne. Wy. T....1S50 Chicago, 111 842 Cincinnati, Ohio.... fill Columbia, S. C 510 Columbus, Ohio 535 Concord, N. H 503 Deer LoDGE,Mon.T.2700 Denver, Col. T .1950 Desmoines, Iowa 1102 Detroit, Mich C92 Dover, Del. 159 Duluth, Minn 1437 Erie, Pa 466 Fort Abercrombie,1507 Fort Benton, M.T..3130 FortBerthold,D.T.2186 Fort Bliss, Tex 2523 Fort Boise, Idaho..2669 miles. Fort Bridger, Wy.T.2349 Fort Dodge, Kan. ..1586 Fort Fetterman 1984 Fort Gibson,Ch.Na.l387 Fort Hays, Kan 1525 Fort Klamath, Ore.3320 Fort Laramie, VV.T.IOOO Fort Leavenworth. .1203 Fort Randall, D. T.1535 Fort Smith, Ark. ...1307 Fort AVayne, Ind... G94 Fort Yuma, Cal 3881 Frankfort, Ky 731 Galveston, Texas. ..1556 Harrisburg, Pa 125 Hartford, Conn 342 Indianapolis, Ind... 715 Jackson, Miss 1082 Jefferson City, Mo.1077 Kansas City, Mo... .1234 Lansing, Mich 742 Leavenworth, Kan. 1260 Little Rock, Ark. ..1115 Louisville, Ky 720 MADisoN,Wis 074 Memphis, Tenn 934 MiLLEDGEVILLE, Ga.. 008 Milwaukee, Wis 927 Mobile, Ala 1082 Montgomery, Ala.... 896 MONTPELIER, Vt 556 Nashville, Tenn.... 775 New Haven, Conn., 307 miles. New Orleans, La.. ,.1250 New York, N. Y 229 Norfolk, Va 233 Olympia, Wash, T...3982 Omaha, Neb 1298 Pensacola, Fla 1050 Philadelphia, Pa.... 139 Pittsburg, Pa 374 Pori.land, Ore... 3952 Providence, R. 1 419 Raleigh, N. C 313 Richmond, Va 130 Sacramento, Cal 3072 Saint Louis, Mo 952 Saint Paul, Minn.. 1285 Salem, Ore 3834 Salt Lake CityU.T.2464 San Francisco,Cal.3l55 San Juan Is., W. T.4047 Santa Fe, N. Mex...2093 Savannah. Ga 691 Tahlequah, Ind. T..1300 Sitka, Alaska.., 4535 Springfield, 111 928 Tallahassee, Fla 953 Topeka, Kan 1302 Trenton, N.J 170 Tucson, Ar. T 2628 Vancouver, W, T...3970 Virginia City, M.T.2087 Wheeling, W. Va.... 401 Wilmington, Del... Ill Yankton, D. T 1449 Foreign Distances, air-Line, from Washington, to miles. Belize 1410 miles. ....4050 miles. ....4080 Berlin 3840 Buenos Ayres 4870 Calcutta 8580 Callao 3108 Jerusalem Lima Lisbon .^...5490 ....3180 ....3180 ....3300 San Domingo.... San Juan San Salvador.... Santiago, Chili.. Spanishtown, Ja St. Petersburg.. Sydney, Aus .... Tehauntepec Vera Cruz Vienna ....1300 ....1380 ....1650 ....4700 Caracas 1830 Cape Good Hope....7380 Cape Horn 6450 Chuquisaca 3070 Constantinople 4870 Georaetown, Br. G.2230 Mexico Nicaragua. Panama Paris Pekin ....1G80 ....1740 ....1S40 .,...3480 ... 7(580 m..l290 ....4200 ....0150 1620 1560 Rio de Janeiro. ....4300 4110r Havana 1250 XX GENERAL INFORMATION. Differences of Time. Tahle showing the mean time at 39 places in the United States and Foreign Countries, v. hen it is mean noon at Washington, D. C, United States of America. * Signifies forenoon and f afternoon. Time computed from the ob- servatories of all places marked {o.) h. Albany, N.Y (o) f Alexandria, Egypt. f 7 Astoria. Oregon * 8 Augusta, Maine f Baltimore, Md f Berlin, Prussia (o) f 6 Boston, Mass f Cambridge, Mass... (o) f Canton, China * Charleston, S. C * U Chicago, 111 * 11 Cincinnati, Ohio.... * 11 Detroit, Micliigan.. * 11 Greenwich, Eng.... (o) f 5 Honolulu, S. I * f) Jeddo, Japan * 2 Leavenworth, Kan. * 10 Lima, Peru * 11 Liverpool, Eng {o) f 4 London, Eng (o) f 5 m. s. 13 13 7 44 52 57 2S 52 1 45 1 46 '!?, 58 23 42 41 18 48 30 17 41 80 13 86 2 8 11 3(j 44 28 12 40 16 59 41 56 11 2 12 h. Louisville, Ky j H Melbourne, Aus'lia * 2 Memphis, Teun * 11 iMexico, Mex * 10 Milwaukee, Wis * 11 Mobile, Alabama... * 11 Montreal, C.E f Moscow, Russia (o) f 7 New Orleans, La.... * 11 New York, N. Y f Panama, C. A * 11 Paris,, France (o) f 5 Philadelphia, Pa.... (o) f Rome, Italy (o) f 5 Salt Lake, Utah * 9 San Francisco, Cal. * 8 St. Louis, Mo * 11 Vienna, Austria (o) t 6 Washington, D.C... (o) m. s. 26 12 48 5 7 40 31 50 16 35 16 6 14 38 28 8 12 12 12 50 15 17 33 7 34 58 6 39 48 58 25 7 11 13 44 SECTION I. WASHINGTON AND THE DISTRICT Of COLUMBIA. WASHIlSrGTON. I HE Seat of Government of the United States of America has been appropriatelj^ called ''the Virgin Capital." A territory under the exclusive jurisdiction of Congress had early received the atten- tion of the legislators of the new Republic; indeed, before the clamor of war had fairly ceased, or the royal standard of England had left its shores. The posses- sion of such a territory was an important featm-e in the de- bates upon the framing of the Constitution ; and it was pre- cisely forty-eight days after the last act of ratification, that the Federal City of the American Republic was by solemn en- actment of the young Congress of the Thirteen Free and Inde- pendent States located on the beautiful eastern shore of the broad Potomac. It might be added, that not only is Washing- ton the only virgin capital in the world, but its foundation was simultaneous with the inauguration of the permanent form of government of the nation. Of being synchronous it lacked less than two years. The idea and the execution were essentially American. It was founded as the Capital of the Republic. It sprang out of the virgin soil, and its growth and magnificence were to be measured by the progress and taste of the people who constituted the Government of which it was to be the political head and centre and the permanent residence. Among the capitals of the great nations of modern times, in this particular Washmgton stands alone. St. Petersburg, now the seat of the imperial residence of the Autocrat of all the Russias, rose out of the morasses of the Neva at the wiU of the great Peter. It was long Avhat its founder called it, a look-out upon Europe, before tlie ancient capital of the Czars, in the fertile Moskva, left the sheltering walls of the Krem- lin for the banks of the Neva. Versailles, the queen of royal residences, sprang from a favorite hunting lodge of Louis Xin. A monarch like his successor was alone capable of a» Z GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION. exhibition of extravagance such as this. The genius of Le Brun and Le Notre, and the expenditure of two hundred millions of dollars, did not make Versailles a capital. Its name and its associations are synonymous with the recldess- ness of a luxurious and dissolute coiu-t. Kome, the city of over twenty-six centuries, was government and capital , when Romulus, with his handful of Latins on the western slope of the Palatine ; Tatius, with his Sabines on the Capitoline and the Quirinal ; and the Etruscans on the Caelian and Esquiline, gathered around the forum, and laid the foundation of that career of gi-eatness and power, which justly earned the proud title of Mistress of the World. But republican Rome rose on the ruins of the earlier kingdom of the Tarquins. Impe- rial Rome superseded the colossal fabric of the Republic of the Consuls, the Tribunes, and the Triumvirs. Pontifical Rome reared herself upon the crumbled throne of the Impe- rial Caesars. The Rome of to-day, the capital of United Italy, therefore, may well be said to be the mother, while Washington is the maiden, of capitals. Geographical Location.— Washington the Federal, or Capi- tal City of the United States of America, is situated on the left or eastern bank of tlie Potomac River, between the Anacostia, or Eastern Branch of the Potomac, and Rock Creek, 106^ m. (statute) above the mouth of the Potomac River, by ship channel, from abreast the red buoy off Point Lookout to Ai'senal or Geenleaf 's Point, and 185^ m. fi'om the buoy 1^ m. NE. of Cape Henry light, mouth of Chesa- peake Bay. The distance by air line to the mouth of the Potomac River is 69 m., and to the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay 143 m. The distance from the Capitol by air line to the sea-coast, just below Cape Henlopen, the nearest point, is 105 m. ; and to the Chesapeake Bay, available for vessels of war, Patuxent River, 53 m. ; Annapolis 38J m., and Herring Bay 39 m. The city, the site of which was selected by President Wash- ington, was founded under the same provisions of constitu- tional authority and State and National legislation which led to the establishment of the Federal Territory, or District of Columbia. The only direct reference to the location of the public buildings within the limits of the Territory already accepted was contained in a proviso in the amendatory act of Congress approved March 3, 1791, requiring their erect- ion on the Maryland side of the Po.tomac. The longitude of tlie Capitol, ascertained by Lambert, is 76° 55' 30^' 54 W. of Greenwich, and 79° 15' 41'' 69 W. of Paris. Latitude 38° 52' 20 N. AREA. 3 When the city was located, the northern limit of the United States was lat. 46° N. and the southern 31° K., placing Washington but 23 min. or geographical miles south of the centre from N. to S. Subsequent acquisitions of territory, however, on the line of the Atlantic sea-board, from the mouth of the St. Croix to the S. extremity of the peninsula of Florida, places the centre at lat. 35° N., the vicinity of Newberne, North Carolina, or 233 miles S. Another im- portant consideration in those days was the fact, that on no part of the coast within the bounds of the country was there accessible to sea-going vessels a port situated so far inland. Distances. — The distances in miles to the chief points in the different sections of the vast domain now under the ■•urisdiction of the National Government are as follows : From Washington.— North and East : Baltimore, Md., 40; Philadelphia, Penn., 139; New York, N.Y., 229; Bos- ton, Mass., 458 ; Portland, Me., 567 ; mouth of the St. Croix River, the N. E. boundary on New Brunswick, 750; Rouse's Point on Lake Champlain, N. boundary on Lower Canada, 59S. Northwest: Oswego, N. Y., on Lake Ontario, 475; Bufi'alo, N. Y., on Lake Erie, 446 ; Chicago, 111., on Lake^ Michigan, 842 ; Fort Brady, Mich., on Sault Ste. Marie,^ bpimdary on Upper Canada, 1,031 ; Duluth, Minn., W. end Lake Superior, 1,437 : Pembina, Dakota, forty-ninth paral- lel, boundary between the United States and British posses- sions, 1,677 ; Olympia, Washington Territory, 3,982 ; Cape Flattery, extreme N. W. point on Pacific Ocean, 4,102; Sitka, Alaska, 4,535. West : St. Louis, Mo., on the Mississippi River, 952; Omaha, Neb., on the Missouri River, 1,298; Salt Lake City, Utah, Rocky Mountains, 2,464; San Francisco, Cal., on the Pacific Ocean, W. boundary, 3,155. South and Southwest: Richmond, Va., 130; Charleston, S. C, 587; Key West., Fla., extreme S. point Gulf of Mexico, 1,494; New Orleans, La., 100 miles from the mouth of the Missis- sippi River, 1,250; Brownsville, Tex., S. W. Rio Grande or Mexican frontier, 1,946 ; San Diego, Cal., S. W. limit, on Lower California and Pacific Coast, 3,672. [For Table of Distances to all parts of the U. S. and the world, see Gen- eral Information.] Area.— The plot of the city lies on the W. side of the tract, 64 sq. m., within the present borders of the District of Columbia, and is 14 m. in circumference. It covers 6,111 a., or a little over 9J sq. m. The avenues, streets, and spaces comprise 2,654 a. ; the Government reservations, as origi- nally laid out, 541 a., and squares 3,016 a. The greatest 4 POPULATION. length is from W. to S. of E. ; or from Rock Creek, between I and K sts. W., to the bank of the Anacostia, at 24th st. E., on B St. S., 4.57 m. The earlier plot is extended to 31st St. E. ; but the 7 additional streets and squares are subject to tidal inundation, and are generally excluded from the later maps. The greatest breadth of the city is W. of N., from Greenleaf Point, at the foot of the Ai-senal Grounds, to Boundary, at 11th st. W., 3.78 m. The mean width, however, is not more than 2^ m. The mean length is over 4 m. The boundary of the city begins at the mouth of Rock Creek, near the western limits of I St. IST., opposite Analostan Island, in the Potomac, and fol- lows the course of the creelv to the point of intersection of the W. limit of P st. N. ; thence it follows an irregular N. course to a point midway between 11th and the prolonga- tion of 10th St. W. and north of W st. N. ; thence it runs S. till it joins the W. line of the northern end of 9th st. W., about V St. N. ; and following 9th st. W. to U st. N., it pur- sues the latter street a few feet ; thence in a due SW. line to the angle formed by the intersection of H st. N., loth st. E., and the NE. limit of Maryland avenue, where the Bal- timore Turnpike and Benning's Bridge road diverge ; thence by the line of 15th st. E. to a few feet S. of the eastern ex- tremity of C St. N". ; thence by a due E. and W. line till it strikes the Anacostia ; thence by the riglit bank of the Ana- costia and the left bank of the Potomac to the place of be- ginning. Tlie city lies 4 m. along the Potomac and about 3J m. along the Anacostia. Government. — ^The old municipal form was abolished by the act of Congress, 1871, and the jurisdiction of the city was vested in the Governor and Legislature of the Territory, incorporated for municipal purposes and empowered to exer- cise the powers of a municipal corporation, not inconsistent with the Constitution and laws of the United States. Finances. — (See District of Columbia.) Population.— The population of the city, by decades, since its foundation, was as follows: 1810, 8,208; 1820, 13,247; 1830, 18,826 ; 1840, 23,364 ; 1850, 40,001 ; 1860, 61,122 ; 1870, 100,199. The population, when occupied by Congress, in 1800, is not separately given ; but that it was very small may be judged from the "fact that the total for Washington and Georgetown and the County was but 8,144. The population in 1870 was, white, 73,731 ; colored, 35,455 ; Indian, 13. Born in the District of Columbia, 42,694; and in other States, 52,748 ; in foreign countries, 13,757, viz : Ireland, 6,948 ; Germany, 4,133; England, 1,235; Scotland, 299; British GEOGRAPHICAL SITUATION. 5 America, 239 ; Italy, 175 ; Switzerland, 146 ; all other foreign countries, 582. Miscellaneous Statistics.— Size, 12 in population ; families, 21,343; persons to a familj', 5.12; dwellings, No., 19,545; persons to each, 5.59. Persons in each class of occupations, 41,188 : agriculture, 284; personal and professional services, 2G,109 ; male, 15,59G ; female, 10,513 ; trade and transport- ation, 5,296 ; manufactures, mechanical, and mining indus- tries, 9,499. Foreign Capitals.— The Capital of the United States is situ- ated farther south than tliat of any of the greater States of Europe, as will be seen by the following: Washington.— Lat. 38° 52' 20'^ N. On Potomac Kiver, lOG^ m. from its moutli. Area 6,111 a., and 14 m. in cir- cuit. Population, 1870, 109,199. London.— Lat. (St. Paul's) 51° 30' 48'^ ]N'. On Thames River, 50 m. from its mouth. Area of old city 1 sq. m. With city and liberty of Westminster and 5 boroughs 31,353 sq. m. Population, 1870, 3,215,000. Paris.— Lat. 48^ 50' 12'^ N. On tlie Seine River, 110 m. from its mouth. Area 14 sq. m. Population, 1871, 1,950,000. Berlin.— Lat. 52^ 30' 16" N. On the Spree River. Area 6,800 a., and 10 m. in circuit. Population 820,000. St. Petersburg.— Lat. 59^ 56' N. On the ^vTeva River, near its mouth. Area 6 m. in length and 5 m, in width. Population 667,000. Vienna.— Lat. 48° 12' N". On the Wein River, near the Danube. Circuit 15 m. Population, 1872, 640,000. Rome.— Lat. 41° 54' 06" N. On the Tiber River, 17 m. from its mouth. Circuit 12 m. Population, 1872, 247,497. History. — The permanent Seat of Government was estab- lished at Washington under provisions of the Constitution of the United States and an act of Congress approved July 16, 1790. For a succinct history of its growth, from its founda- tion down to the present time. See History of WasJimgton^ at the end of tiiis Hand-book. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. Geographical Situation.— The Federal Territory, or Dis- trict of Columbia, is situated on tlie left or E. bank of the Potomac River, at the conlluence of the Anacostia. Its present limits lie entirely within the borders of the State of 6 GEOGRAPHICAL SITUATION. Maryland, and bounded on the NW., N., and partly on tlie NE. by Montgomery County, and partly on the NE. and on the E. and SE. by Prince George's County, in tliat State. Its entu-e western boundary is formed bj'' the Potomac River. The lat. of the centre of the District, as first laid out, varies but a few feet from that of the Capitol, and the long. is one minute or geograpliical mile and a fraction W. Boundaries. — Tlie Federal District, as originally located and proclaimed, Mar. 30, 1791, was a square of 10 m., and consequently comprised 100 sq. m. The lines of boundary began at Jones' Point, or tlie upper cape, which projects into the Potomac on the Vh-ginia side or right bank, at the con- fluence of Hunting Creek and the Potomac, and but a short distance SE. of the present town of Alexandria, Va. At this initial point the corner-stone of the Territory was plant- ed, with appropriate ceremonies, and formed the starting- point of a first line, which was run at an angle of 45=^ W. of N. or NW., a distance of 10 m., in the State of Virginia. The second line also started at the initial point, and ran at a right angle with the first, or NE., across the Potomac, 10 m., into the State of Maryland. The remaining two lines were run from the termini of the first two and at right angles with them, respectively, NE. and NW., the one crossing the Po- tomac and the other the Anacostia, and meeting each other in a point. The original Territory, it will be seen, stood diagonally, each angle facing one of the cardinal points of the compass. The N. point of the District, as originally laid Dut, is f of a ra. due W. of Silver Spring, Md. ; the E. point 2| m. S. of E. of Benning's Bridge, on the Anacostia ; the S. or initial point at the IST. cape of Hunting Creek, called Jones' Point, 1 m. E. of S. of the centre of Alexandria, Va. ; and the W. point near the source of Four-mile Eun, in Va. The Potomac Kiver now forms the AV. boundary : all that poi-tion foi-merly belonging to the State of Vh'ginia having been ret- roceded. The four sides of the District, instead of facing IST., S., E., and W., lie NE., SE., SW., and NW. The centre of the original Territory, by a right line drawn from the X. to the S. point of the square, is marked by a gray freestone, about 100 yds. W. of the Washington Monument, and on a line almost due S. from the President's House, at a distance of about 1 m. The stone was planted to mark the centre of the District. The lines, as run by Mr. EUicott, "Grcographer General," were marked by square mile-stones, with deeply-cut inscrip- tions, as follows : On the side facing the Territory, "Juris- diction OF THE United States." On the opposite ' ' Vir- GOVERNMENT. 7 GiNiA" or "Maryland," according to the State on whose possessions the line faced. On the thu-d side was the year, 1192. And on the foiu'th the position of the magnetic needle at the time and place. Some of these stones are still standing ; and more, probably, might be brought to light if the accumulations of decayed vegetable growth were re- moved. It has been wisely suggested that the Government should define the hues of the Federal Territory of this now mighty Republic by tablets, columns, and other marks, wor- thy and commemorative of its greatness. Shortly after the District was laid out this was seriously considered. It was proposed to build a great Fort at Jones' Point, on the site of the initial corner-stone of the Federal Territory. This fort, at the same time, was to constitute one of the defenses of tlie river approach to the capital from the Sea, and was to be called Fort Columbia. It was actually commenced, but soon afterwards abandoned. In 1846 all that portion of the District, consisting of about 36 sq. m., which lay on the W. bank of the Potomac, in Vir- ginia, was retroceded to that State, which reduced the area to 64 sq. m., its present extent. The length of the Potomac boundary is 12^ m. Since the retrocession, particularly dur- ing the rebellion of 1861-'65, the short-sighted policy of that act was sadly apparent in the inconvenience experienced in having the banks of the Potomac opposite the National Capital under the jmlsdiction of an inimical local govern- ment. The question of restoring the Territory to its first limits, by securing a new cession, from Virginia, is being agi- tated. In the absence of absolute jurisdiction on both sides of the river, it is manifest that there must be interminable conflicts of interest and authority: the more so as the Capi- tal increases in population, wealth, and magnificence. The schemes of improvement of the Potomac in front of Wash- ington and Georgetown also demand the possession of the Virginia shore. Political Divisions. — The District is di\T[ded into the cities of Washington and Georgetown and the County of Wash- ington. Govemmeiit. — The Congress of the United States, in Nov., 1800, assembled for the first time in the City of Washing- ton. The jurisdiction of the United States over the Dis- trict vested on the first Monday of Dec, 1§00. It was not, however, till Feb. 27, 1801, that Congress assumed direct and exclusive jurisdiction— all affairs of the District being first referred to a Committee for the District of Columbia for con- sideration and report. 8 GOVERNMENT. The act of Congress approved February 21, 1871, created all that part of the Territory of the United States inckided within the limits of the District of Columbia into a govern- ment, by the name of the District of Columbia : the execu- tive power to be vested in a Governor^ to be nominated by the President and confii-med by the Senate, and to hold oflBlce for four years ; and the legislative power in a Legislative As- sembly, composed of a Council of 11 members, nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate, to hold office two years ; and a House of Delegates of 22 members, elected by the people annually. Two members of the Council must be residents of Georgetown and two of the County outside of the cities of Washington and Georgetown, leaving seven for Washington. That portion of the District not included in the corporate limits of Washington and Georgetown is divided into three townships. The Territory is divided into 22 legis- lative districts, viz : of Washington 18 ; Georgetown 2 ; and County of Washington 2. The annual elections are held on the 2d Tuesday in October, and the annual sessions of the Legislative Assembly on the 4th Monday of April of each year. The sanitary care of the District is under the supervision of a Board of Health. All streets, avenues, alleys, and sewers are under a Board of Pub- lic Works. The Board is required to report annually to the President of the United States, Congress, and the Legislative Assembly. The organic act also defines certain limitations and restrictions in the exercise of governmental functions, particularly with reference to finances, assessments, and taxes. All acts of the Legislative Assembly of the District are sub- ject to revision by Congress, and that body retains the power of legislation over the District, the same as if the organic law had not been passed. The Legislative Assembly is required to maintain a system of free schools, is empowered to create corporations for the District, and has power to provide by law for the election or appointment of ministerial officers. The organic act of Feb. 21, 1871, repealed the charters of the cities of Washington and Georgetown and all legislation respecting the Levy Court and County of Washington incon- sistent with that act : the powers hitherto exercised in those connections being vested in the Territorial Government. A Delegate to the House of Kepresentatives of the United States, to serve for 2 years, is also elected by the voters quali- fied to elect members of the Legislative Assembly, and has the same rights and privileges as are exercised and enjoyed by the Delegates from the several Territories of the United States to the House of Representatives : he is also a member of the Committee for the District of Columbia. POrULATION. 9 The judicial courts of tlie District are subject to the legisla- tive action of Congress only. The salaries of all officers appointed by the President are paid by the U. S. ; all others by the District. The new District government went into operation June 1, 1871. Finances, estimated upon the tax levy for the fiscal j'^ear ending June 30, 1874 : Assessed valuation of real estate in the District of Colum- bia, $96,433,072, viz : Washington, $80,539,782 ; Georgetown, $6,272,010; County of Washington, $9,621,280. Total actual valuation, $200,000,000. Revenue: Taxes, $1,888,252 06; other sources, $200,000; total, $2,088,252 06. Eate of tax on $100 : Washington, $2 00; Georgetown, $2 00; County, $1 58. Appropriations by the 3d Legislative Assembly, payable from above, to June 30, 1874: General District fund, $471,130; School fund, teachers and building, $318,360 26; Metropoli- tan Police, $137,445, or ^ total amount, f paid by U. S.; Gas .fund, $129,975; Interest on bonds D. C, $304,000; on water stock, $31,500; on bonds of late corporation, $289,417 24; Sinking funds bonds D. C, $250,000. Total, $1,931,827 50. Excess of revenues over appropriations, $156,424 56. Con- gress annually appropriates $25,000 towards the expenses of the Fire Department. The bonded debt existing Nov. 1, 1873, was as follows : District of Columbia, $5,522,350; late Corporation of Wash- ington, $4,127,584 22 ; late Corporation of Georgetown, $252,- 316 96 : total, $9,902,251 18. Congress limits the amount of debt that may be incurred by the District to $10,000,000. The financial operations of the Board of Public Works are not embraced in the above. It appears from the report of the Treasurer that from July 1, 1871, to November, 1873, the total receipts have been $14, 789,692.85. The expenditures for the same period have been $13,386,455.67, leaving a balance of $1,403,237.18. The contracts entered into by the Board number 951, and, deducting the amount estimated for water services, and chargeable directly to property, aggregate $13,501,162.49. Of this siun there remain to be expended, for the completion of the work under contract, $1,636,037.54. Population. — The population of the District, inclusive of the County of Alexandria np to 1840, and exclusive after, during each decade since its occupation by the Goverinnent, was, 1800, 14,093 ; 1810, 24,023 ; 1820, 33,039 ; 1830, 30,834 ; 1840, 43,712; 1850, 51,687; 1860, 75,080; 1870, 131,700. Classified, 1870 : White, 88,278 ; colored, 43,404 ; Cliinese, 3; Indian, 15 ; male, 62,192 ; female, 69,508 ; native, 115,446; 10 INDUSTRY AND WEALTH. foreign born, 16,254 ; native of District of Columbia, 52,340 ; of other States, 63,106. Of foreign countries, 16,254, \iz : Ireland, 8,218 ; Germany, 4,920 ; England, 1,422 ; Scotland, 352; British America, 290; France, 231; Italj^, 182; all other foreign countries, 639. By civil divisions, 1870 : Washington, 109,199 ; George- town, 11,384; county, 11,117. Slave population : 1800, 3,244 ; 1810, 5,395 ; 1820, 6,377 ; 1830, 6,119; 1840, 4,694; 1850, 3,687; 1860, 3,185; 1870, none. Total, exclusive of Alexandria Coimty : 1800, 8,144 ; 1810, 15,471 ; 1820, 23,336 ; 1830, 30,261 ; and 1840, 33,745 ; subse- quently, as above. The increase to 131,700 during the decade ending in 1870 indicates an unusually rapid gro^\th. This Will be further promoted, as the disposition already manifested by citizens of means in all parts of the country to make the National Capi- tal a place of winter resort increases. , Miscellaneous Statistics, 1870.— Area, 64 sq. m. ; persons to a sq. m., 2,057.81. Families, 25,276; persons to a family, 5.21. Dwellings, 23,308 ; persons to a dwelling 5.65. Per- sons in each class of occupations : Agriculture, 1,365 ; male, 1,350 ; female, 15. Professional and personal services, 29,845 ; male, 17,927; female, 11,918. Trade and transportation, 6,126; male, 5,852; female, 274. Manufacture, mechanical, and mining, 11,705; male, 10,071; female, 1,634. Otlier statistical information will be found under appropriate heads. Vital Statistics. -The District is situated in one of the health- iest regions in the country. Notwithstanding the large num- ber of strangers constantly arriving in the city and the in*egular habits of a large proportion, the average death-rate compares favorably witli other sections. The census of 1870 shows the following results : Oregon, 1 death to 146 popula- tion, the most favorable ; Minnesota, 1 to 124 ; New Hamp- shire, 1 to 74 ; Pennsylvania, 1 to 66 ; District of Cokmibia, 1 to 65 ; California, 1 to 62 ; Missouri, 1 to 61 ; IMassachusetts, 1 to 56 ; Louisiana, 1 to 50. The percentage of deaths to pop- ulation in the District is 1.53. The aggregate number of deaths in 1870 was 2,015: males, 1,065; females, 950; ag- gregate population, 131,700. Of the deaths, 929 died under the age of 5 years. The principal diseases are pulmonary and fevers, in particular localities. The fevers are generaUy intermitting and bilious. Industry and "Wealth, 1870.— Valuation of Property, $74,- 271,693; assessed real, $71,437,468; personal, $2,834,225. GEOLOGY. 11 True value, real and personal, $126,873,618. This is exclu- sive of the property of the General Government. Taxation, not national, total $1,581,569 ; countv, $49,975 ; city, $1,531,- 594 ; 1860, total $260,218 ; 1870, public debt, not national, $2,596,545. Agriculture: Acres improved, 8,266 ; woodland, 2,428 ; other unimproved, 983 ; value of farms, $3,800,230 ; implements, &c. $39,450 ; value of productions, betterments, and additions to stock, $319,517. In 1860 there were 17,474 acres improved and 16,789 unimproved, with a value of but $2,989,267. Manufactures : Establishments, 952 ; capital, $5,021,925; products, $9,292,173. In 1860 there were but 429 establishments, with capital $2,905,865, and products $5,412,102. No mining or established fisheries. Agriculture.— The cereals and other crops of the 'N. belt of the IS", temperate zone are cultivated with success in the District of Columbia. Fruits and vegetables in great varietj' are also grown. The markets of the capital are abundantly supplied from the vicinity, and rank with, if they do not ex- cel, the finest in other parts of the United States. Topography. — The District of Columbia presents a pleasing variety of landscape. On the shores of the Potomac, towards the NW., the outlying spurs of tiie Blue Kidge range of the Appalachian chain approach the city, and form the wild and romantic scenery of rugged rocky hills and deep valleys along the Potomac at the Little and Great Falls. The remainder of the District consists of sweeping and graceful undulations. The Potomac, from the NW., and the Anacostia, from the NE., unite their currents about the centre of the original bounds of the District, from which point the main river flows in a southerly direction, until it passes the line. A number of smaller streams, including Kock and Tiber Creeks,' which water all parts of the District, find their outlets into the Po- tomac or Anacostia. Geology.— The soil of the District bordering the Potomac is alluvial, formed by the rich deposits of the river, brought down from the mountains. The elevated lands consist almost exclusively of yellow clay, interspersed with sand and gravel. Occasionally a mixture of loam and clay is met with. Kock Creek divides the primitive from the alluvial soil. Above Kock Creek the shores of the Potomac are fined with primi- tive rocks. Shortly after leaving the District the red sand- stone appears. In some parts the stone frequently contains leaves of trees and ligneous fragments. A species of gneiss, composed of feldspar, quartz, and mica, is also abundant, and constitutes the underlying rock of the entire District. 12 ORNITHOLOGY. Mineralogy. — The mineralogy of the District is thus stated by Mr. Eobhison, hi his Catalogue : Flint, on the sliores of the Eastern Branch of the Poto- mac, near the Navy Yard, in small nodules. HOKXESTONE, Containing organic remains. Agatized Wood, woodstone, three miles north from Wash- ington, sometimes invested with minute crystals of quartz, fine specimens, and abundant. Schorl, in Georgetown, in gneiss. Lignite and Pyritical Fossil Wood, found abund- antly in digging wells. Iron Ore, in the vicinity of the woodstone locality, in de- tached masses, on the surface. Organic remains in sandstone abundant. Botany. — A list of the plants indigenous to the District of Columbia, prepared by J. A. Brereton, in 1822, from the ma- terial collected under the auspices of the Washington Botan- ical Society, and entitled Florida Columhiana^ presents 22 classes and 288 varieties, following the Linmean classification. Of the more familiar varieties found are tlie oak. (several va- rieties,) button- wood, red maple, sassafras, alder, mountain ash, linden, catalpa, locust, chestnut, tulip, horehound, pen- nyroyal, dogwood, blue-eyed gi*ass, violet, wild honeysuckle, fox grape, Indian tobacco, mullien, wild sweet potato, night- shade, chickweed, touch-me-not, dog's bane, spiderwort, elder, sumac, calamus, superb lily, hellebore, free primrose, gTound laurel, laurel, whortleberry, wild indigo, wild pink, cockle, poke, strawberry, dewberry, blackberry, sweet brier, May apple, columbine, ground i^y, motherwort, catnip, trumpet creeper, water-cress, wild pepper-grass, passion flower, crow- foot geranium, snakeroot, pea vine, wild potato vine, dande- lion, thistle, wild lettuce, sunflower, ladies' slipper, sedge, nettle, bm-dock, hog weed, Indian turnip, cucumber. Zoology. — The animals native to the region embraced within and contiguous to the District of Columbia in primitive times resorted to this vicinity in large numbers to feed upon the rich pastures found upon the alluvial banks of the Potomac. Among these were several varieties of deer. There were also pantlier, black bear, wild cat, wolves, red and gray foxes, rabbits, beaver, raccoon, opossum, squirrels, (several varieties,) field mice. The larger species are exterminated. The num- ber of species of all kinds is stated at 42. Ornithology. — The feathered kingdom is well represent- ed. Jefterson, in his Notes on Virginia, speaks of 100 vari- eties of birds, most of which doubtless were found in the CLIMATE. 13 District. The wild turkey was found in great numbers. The canvas-back duck, which in early days resorted to the vicinity of Analostan Island, is yet met witli in the estu- aries of the streams below the city; also the wild goose, swan, mallard, blue-winged teal, widgeon, and other spe- cies. In tlie swamps are found snipe, rail, blackbirds, and reed-birds. The country generally abounds in quail. The hunting of feathered game is restricted by law. The autumn months generally constitute the season. The car- dinal grosbeak, mocking-bird, sparrow, linnet, yellow-bird, thrush, sand-piper, king-fisher, and heron are also met with. The number of species'of all kinds is stated at 236. Ichthyology — The Potomac, within the District, is stocked with fish in great numbers, some of which are of the finest varieties. Those best known are the sturgeon, (w^eight from 40 to 150 lbs.,) rock fish, (from 1 to 75 lbs.,) shad, bass, gar, eel, (three varieties,) carp, herring, pike, perch, (four varie- ties,) catfish, mullet, (three varieties,) and smelt. The shad of the Potomac are of excellent quality. In the season they are very abundant, and may be seen caught on the Virginia shore opposite the city; also large quantities of herring are caught below the city. The laws of Maryland, as early as 1768, provided for the protection of the fish. Subsequent acts placed a heavy penalty upon the destruction of young fish by weirs and dams, and to prevent beating with cords or poles at certain seasons of the year. A species of shark also ascends to the city. Herpetology. — There are about 50 species of reptiles. Of turtles and lizards there are several varieties. There are about 20 species of serpents, including the rattle, copperhead, black, garter, water, green snakes, and vipers. Climate. — The following meteorological summary, pre- pared at the oflSce of the Chief Signal Officer, shows the con- ditions of the climate at the Washingtow, D. C, station for the year ending June 30, 1873 : 1872. July — Mean temperature, 81^.7; maximum, 101; minimum, 64; rain fall, 0.82; prevailing wind, S. August — M. temp. 79^.6 ; max. 98; min. 55; rain, 5.72; wind, S. September — M. temp. 69°.3 ; max. 98; min. 44; rain, 3.92; wind, NW. Octobor — M. temp. 55°.8 ; max. 82 ; min. 33.5; rain, 4.83; wind, TvTW. JSTovember— M. temp. 42°.2 ; max. 65; min. 14: rain, 2.75; wind, NW. 14 CLIMATE. December — M. temp. 31°; max. 48; min. 3; rain, 2.49; wind, NW. 1873. January — M. temp. 31°. 7; max. 64.5; min. 7; rain, 3.73 ; wind, N. February — M. temp. 31°. 1 ; max. 63; min. 1; rain, 4.69; wind, NW. March — M. temp. 41°. 5; max. 69; min. 4; rain, 3.03; wind, NW. April — M. temp. 53°. 3; max. 87; min. 36; rain, 3.19; wind, NW. May— M. temp. 63°.6; max. 92.5; min. 43; rain, 5.21; wind, NE. June — M. temp. 76°.5; max. 96; min. 46.5; rain, 1.63; wind, S. For the year, mean temperature, 54°.3 ; total rain fall, 42.01 inches. The climate of the District is generally salubrious, though it is subject to sudden changes, particularly in the spring. " A comparison of the above figures with the same for pre^'iou.« years shows that the mean of the climate has not materiall}' varied. The hottest months are July and August, and the coldest December and February. Jefferson, in his Notes, says that in 1780 the Chesapeake Bay was frozen from its head to the mouth of the Potomac. The extremes in that j'ear were from 6° to 90°. In 1772 there was a fall of snow averaging 3 feet in depth. At present the average is less than 8 inches. In summer storms of thunder and lightning are frequent. t s House. cm of State. ' DRpartment. partment. partment Uepiitmcnt Poit Office ent of Justi e Hit ot Agnculturp. cry WiS! I ^' Kkb 18 Centre Market. 19 binith-sonian Institution. 20 War.liington Monument, ii Statue of Washington. iz Grceiiough's Washington. 25 Statute of Jackson. 14 Corcoran Gallery of Art. 15 Bolarical Garden. z'> Magazines. i7 Naval Hospital. iS Statue of Siott ly Mcilical Museum. ;o Government rrinting 0*i ii Winder's Building. !i Armorv. }} Congressional Omilcrv f WASHINCT 1B74. COMPILE)) 1.XHCKS>J1.V KEIMS HA2sD-] Wasiiicgton and its h VIRGIN'L ajjjo^ / MARYLAND lJyilG:ri^^LlJLJJLlLj ■^ '.J'^y^JcJ^ GDdv,. .JLJL_\'UL_J[LsGii: _.^irdtJLi]jil]y^?!LyGLjv^L_jO^ 1 Capitol. 2 Presidents House. { Department of State. 4 Treasury Dfipartmeiit. 5 War Department. :ral Post Office. i) Department of Justi.:e, 10 Deparimmt ot Agriculture, 11 oijservatory. 12 Aricnal. 13 .Navy Yi.-ii. 14 Marine liarracks. 15 C.iy Hall. gton. 18 Centre Market, e. 19 Smithsonian Institution. 20 Washington Monumeni 21 Statue ot Washington. 21 Crcenough's Washin 25 Statute of Jackson. 14 Corcoran Gallery of A 25 Uolanical Garden. 26 Magazines. 27 Naval Hospital. li Statue of .^>.<.tt 29 Medical Museum, jc C.'overnmcnt Printing ?I Winder's Building. 52 Armory. fi Congressional t rmitf 7 Asylum. SECTION II. DESCRIPTION OF THE CITY. AVENUES, SQUAKES, STATUES, &c. ^.^^^^HEEE are three points within the city from which ^-"■'^'^^the finest views of Washington may be obtained : 1st. The Dome of the Capitol. 2cl. The West Por- tico of the Capitol, reached through the central hall of the Library of the United States. 3d. The higher of the north central towers of the Smithsonian In- stitution. Outside of tlie city tlie best points are from the tower of the Government Hospital for the Insane, beyond the Anacostia, and the portico of Arlington House, beyond the Potomac. Tlie stranger sliould not fail to talie advan- tage of at least one of these opportunities, and all w^ould amply repay him. With the aid of this Hand-book and map he will thus be able to form a perfect idea of the city and tlie location of the principal public buildings. Topography. — The site of Washington covers an undulat- ing tract, which lies along the left or E. bank of the Potomac River, between Roclv Creelv and the Anacostia. From the rugged elevations on tlie banks of Rock Creek a crescent- shaped ridge crosses the northern portions of the city. About two thirds its length it suddenly f^arts, to allow the fitful cur- rent of the Tiber through. From that point it rises and spreads out into the expansive plateau of Capitol Hill, which overlooks the Anacostia on the E. Within this encircling ridge the surface falls away in terraces and gentle slopes to the banks of the Potomac. In different parts of the city are eminences which afford commanding situations for the public buildings. From the lowjer falls of the Potomac at Georgetown, where the outlying spurs of the Blue Ridge Mountains give the face of nature a somewhat rugged appearance, a chain of low, wooded hills range on the N"., and continuing on the op- posite shores of the Anacostia and Potomac, merge again in the hills on the Virginia side. These give the appearance of a vast ampitheatre, in the centre of which stands the city. The mean altitude of the city is about 40 ft. above the or- 15 1(5 PLAN OF THE CITY. dinary low tide in the Potomac opposite. The more impor- tant elevations, according to levels taken by Brev. Lieut. Col. George W. Hughes, Corps of Topographical Engineers, in 1850, are as follows : Foundation of St. John's Church, NT^. corner of 16th and H sts. ISTW., opposite Lafayette Square and the Presi- dent's House, 65.50 ft. Corner of I and 19th sts. N"W., 82.10 ft. East base of Capitol, 89.50 ft. Base of Naval Observatory, 96.20 ft. Corner of N and 11th sts. ISTW., (highest point in the city,) 103.70 ft. The soil upon which the city is built is generally a yellow- ish clay, mixed with gravel. In digging wells near New Jer- sey av. trees well preserved were found at a depth of from 6 to 48 ft. At one point a stratum of black mud was discov- ered at a depth of 18 ft. The Tiber — so named more than a century before Wash- ington was founded, in the belief, it is said, that some day upon its banks would rise a capital greater than Rome, like its historic and larger namesake — runs through the city, di- viding it into two parts. Its fountain streams rise in the hills to the N., and enter the city in several branches, the princii)al one in tlie vicinity of 1st st. W. ; it then pursues a SE. and S. course, till it crosses Massachusetts av., when it winds oft" to tlie SW. around the NW. base of Capitol Hill and across Pennsylvania av. and the Botanical Garden. Originally its course continued along the Mall and emptied into the JPotomac immediately W. of the Washington Mon- ument. Subsequently it was diverted into the Washington Canal at 3d st. W., which foi^lowed the line of B st. N. along the N. borders of tlie Mall. The filling of tlie canal led to further chang(»s. The Tiber and its tributaries have since been utilized by diverting them into the sewerage system of the central and southern portions of the city; hence, although the stream traverses one of the most populous sections, its course is not traceable, the current flowing beneath heavy brick arches, upon which buildings have been erected and avenues, streets, and parks laid out. In primitive daj's the banks of the Tiber were lined with forests, and shad and her- ring in their season were caught in its waters, under the very shadow of the hill where the Capitol now stands. Plan of the City. — The plan of Washington was prepared in 1791 by Peter Charles L'Enfant, a French engineer of noticeable genius but eccentric habits, who had served in the Continental Army with sufficient distinction to attract the PROPOSED i;iV!BELLIbHMENTS. 17 attention of Wasliiiigtoii. In the work he was greatly as- sisted by the advice of Thomas Jeft'erson, who, when diplo- matic representative of the United States at foreign courts, had, with an intnitive vision of the wants of the future, stud- ied the plans of the cities of Europe visited by him, and was competent and prepared, with the aid of plans and his per- sonal knowledge of their details, to contribute an invaluable amount of information on this important subject. The plan adopted combines the artistic beauty and grace of Versailles and the practical advantages of Babylon, revived by William Penn in Philadelphia. In the concejDtion of the plan, the predominating object was to secure positions for the different public edifices ; also squares and areas of different shapes, which would afford fine prospects. The avenues were in- tended to connect the most distant parts with certain princi- pal central points, to insure a reciprocity of views. Lines N". and S., intersected by others running E. and W., were to divide the city into streets and squares. These lines were to be so combined as to intersect at certain given points another set of divergent avenues, so as to form on the open spaces. Every grand transverse avenue and every principal divergent one, such as from the Capitol to the President's House, was to be 160 ft. wide, laid out with 10 ft. sidewalks and 30 ft. of gi'avel-walk, planted with trees on either side, and 80 ft. of carriageway in the centre. The other avenues and streets leading to public buildings or markets were to be 130 ft. wide, and others 110 and 90 ft. Its Execution. — The site for the Capitol was determined upon as the initial point in execution of this plan. That im- portant question having been decided, Mr. EUicott drew a true meridian line by celestial observation, which passed through the area intended for the Capitol. This he crossed by another, a due E. and W. line, which passed through the same area. These lines were accurately measured, and formed the basis on which the whole plan was executed. All these lines were run by a transit instrument, and the acute angles were deter- mined by actual measurement, leaving nothing to the uncer- tainty of the compass. The avenues' and streets were then laid down. Proposed Embellislimeiits.— The ideas of the projectors not only contemplated a Federal City capable of infinite expan- sion, but also took in its creditable embellishment. Although the want of means and the general apathy of the Government and people allowed these suggestions to pass unrecognized, it is interesting to observe that tlie disgraceful and neglected condition of the Capital of the United States for nearly tliree 2 18 PROPOSED EMBELLISHMENTS. quarters of a century was not owing to any imperfections in tlie original plans. Directly S. of the President's House, in the triangnlar space between the Mall and the Potomac and the mouth of the Tiber, where the untinished and neglected Obelisk to the memory of Washington has stood for over a quarter of a century, was located the site for the Equestrian i^tatue of Washingtoii^ voted by the Continental Congress in 1783. On E. Capitol st., between 11th and 13th sts. E., and about the centre of the high plateau between the Capital and the Anacostia, where four avenues intersected, was laid out a spacious square, in which was to be erected a Historic Column, to be used also as a Mile or Itinerary Column^ from which sta- tion it was intended to calculate the distances to all places within the United States and on the continent. This column would have answered the purpose of the celebrated Niphon- Bass or Bridge of Japan, situated in the Soto-Siro, or outside of the castle in Yedclo. This bridge is considered as the cen- tre of the empire. From it the Tocaido extends to all parts of the empire, and geographical distances are computed. At the foot of 8th st. W., immediately on the banks of the Poto- mac, and commanding a fine view of the widening reach of the river below, was to be erected a Naval Itinerary Column, to celebrate the first rise of the Navy, and " to stand a ready monument to consecrate its progress and achievements. ' ' Tlie crest of the knoll on which the Patent Oflice now stands was set apart for a National Church and Mausoleum^ designed for the use of the Government on occasions of public" prayer, thanksgivings, state funerals and orations, and for any other purpose national in character. The edifice was to be assigned to the special use of no particular sect or denomination', but to be equally open to all. It was also to be the place for such monumental or other tributes of a grateful country voted by the then late Continental Congress for those heroes who fell in the cause of liberty, and for such otliers as might be decreed a place there by the voice of the nation. Also, five grand Fountains were to be erected at different prominent points: one S. of the Capitol, in the large irregular space formed by the intersection of Virginia and North and South Carolina avs.; one on Maryland av., at the intersection of F and 11th sts. NE. ; one at the intersection of Pennsylvania and Lou- isiana avs., near the present site of the Centre Market ; one on New York av., at tlie intersection of I st., between 11th and 12th sts. NW.; and one on the N. side of Pennsylvania av., at the intersection of I st., between 20th and 21st sts. NW. It was proposed to supplj'^ these fountains from the springs and streams within the limits of the city. Between the Capi- tol and the Botanical Garden it was intended to construct a ORIGIN OF THE PLAN. 19 Grand Cascade, to be fed from the Tiber. Between Pennsyl- vania and Maryland avs., from 3d st. W., a space of 1,200 ft. was laid down as the main approach to the "Federal House" or Capitol, and by which it was intended to reach the upper square of the "Federal House." The Mall was to form a grand avenue, 400 ft. wide and about 1 m. in length, bordered with gardens, to lead to the Equestrian Statue of Washington, or where the Monument now stands, and to connect the "Congress Garden with the President's Park." On E. Capitol St., which was to be 160 ft. wide to the proposed bridge across the Anacostia^ the pavement on each side was to pass under archways, with shops. On the S. of the President's Park was to be a well-improved "Field, 1,800 ft. wide and f m. long," part of the "Walk" from the President's House. This spacious reservation was designed for the more elegant houses and gardens of the city, to be used by diplomatic or other foreign representatives and prominent officials of the United States. Fifteen squares in the more conspicuous parts of the city were to be distributed among the States in the Union, for them to improve, or to subscribe a sum in addition to the value of the land for that purpose. The States were to embellish these squares within a limited time, by the erection of some appropriate statue, column, obelisk, or other appropriate mark, as they might determine, to the memory of the heroes of the Revolution, " to inspire the young," and designed to "leave a grand idea of patriotic interest." Other designated points were to be set apart for the erection, by the different denominations, of edifices for religious worship, No burial places were to be allowed within the limits of the city. Also squares and areas unappropriated were to be assigned for the uses of colleges and other institutions. All dwellings or other structures were to be built in accordance with certain regulations, so as to preserve uniformity. Origin of the Plan. — The resemblance between the plans of L'Enfant for Washington and L'Notre for Versailles will be apparent to any one who has visited the capital of the Western Republic and the magnificent royal residence of the kings of France. The grand avenues de Sceaux and de St. Cloud, diverging from the Cour Royale, are reproduced in Pennsylvania and Maryland avs., radiating from the E. front of the Capitol ; E. Capitol st. is the Avenue de Paris; the Boulevard du Roi and the AU^e du Potager in N. and S. Capitol sts. ; and the Allies de la Reine, de Noisy, des Paons, and de la Reine, which diverge from the E. extrem- ity of the Grand Canal, near the Basin d'Apollon, with the 20 A RETROSPECT. omission of All^e de la Reine to the SW., respectively, in Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and New York avs. W. of the President's House. The missing avenue m the plan of Washington, the continuation of Vermont av., would have completed the resemblance, but for the interference of na- ture : the Potomac and the mouth of the Tiber standing in the way of the extension SW. of the President's House. Other striking features of the design of Versailles are observ- able. Washington, however, having in view the practical as well as the beautiful, might be said to combine the plans of two cities. The streets running at right angles have a regard for the facilities of business. While over these, with an eye to beautiful prospects and the advantageous display of the centres of attraction, at long ranges are laid the broad ave- nues, carrefours^ allees, and lawns of the imperial retreat at Versailles. A Eetrospect. — Though the city was originally laid out on a scale adequate to the necessities of a metropolis of more than half a million inhabitants, and with the proper regard for the adornment of the Capital of a gi*eat people in the future, the crude ideas entertained by subsequent statesmen respecting the political status of the Federal Territory and city were ad- verse to any expenditure other than to establish there a sim- ple place of meeting for the representatives of the States — a sort of central agency, where the President and Executive officers might be stationed, and where Congress might come once a year or oftener, as the exigencies of the times required, to transact the business intrusted to them by the Constitu- tion — mainly to pass laws, appropriate money, \q\j taxes, declare war, ratify treaties, and confii-m nominations. This class, then in the ascendancy, found it impossible, or were un- willing, to see anything national in the foundation of a Fed- eral Capital, and consequently opposed every measure look- ing beyond the mere provision of accommodations for the public offices. To build a capital in every sense symbolic and worthy of the Union was entirely foreign to their inter- pretation of the meaning of that portion of the Constitution which gave Congress the power to accept and exercise exclu- sive jurisdiction over a Territory to be solely devoted to the uses of the nation for the purposes of the Government. These notions, it would seem, were a revival of a practice in Ger- many centm-ies ago. On the left bank of the Rhine, imme- diately below the ancient village of Rhense, on the very brink of the stream, and apart from the habitations of men, is still to be seen the famous though rude rostrum or temple known as the Koenigsstuhl. It consists of stone seats, within a small RESERVATIONS. 21 circular wall, and overhead entirely open to the air. Here, in the earlier ages, the German electors assembled to deliber- ate upon the affairs of the empire, to perform acts for the common good, to make treaties, and to nominate or depose the emperors. Washington, by the class alluded to, was viewed in the light of the Koenigsstuhl of the United States. More mature thought, however, "at last brought the people to look upon then- capital as the political metropolis of the United States. This enlightened view is recent, dating no further back than 1861. It was not till 1870 that the march of much- needed improvement commenced. With this new state of affairs the Capital is annually becoming more worthy of the greatness of the Republic of forty millions of people. Keservations.— In the plan of the city a liberal allowance of space was selected and marked out in the most desu-able localities for the sites of public buildings, parks, and for other purposes of the Government. These grounds were called res- ervations, and were numbered from 1 to 17, with an aggregate area of 541 acres, 1 rood, 29 perches. Those still possessed by the Government — several having been sold or granted away since — ^are designated on the maps by their original numbers, but are popularly called after the principal build- 22 RESERVATIONS. ing situated on them, or from the uses to which assigned, as follows : 1. The President's Grounds include the K. and S. Parks and Lafayette Square^ extend from H st. on the N. to the mouth of Tiber Creek on the S., and from 15th to 17th 8ts. W., with the exception of a square in the NE. and NW. angles. On these grounds are the President's House, con- servatories, and stables, flanked on the E. by the Treasury- Department, and on the W. by the State, War, and Navy Departments. The former now building. Total area of grounds, 83 a. 1 r. 22 p. 2. The Capitol. Grounds include the E. and W. Parks and the Mall^ extending from 1st st. E. to the prolongation of loth St. W., and between B sts. N. and S., with the excep- tion of a narrow connecting strip between 3d and 6th sts. W. This deficient portion of the Mall in 1822 was granted by Con- gress to the municipal corporation, to be sold in lots, to pay the expense of removing the old canal from its location on the S. side of Pennsylvania av., between 3d and 6th sts. W., to the middle of the Mall. On these grounds are the Capitol, Botanical Garden, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Ag- ricultural Department. Total area of grounds originally, 227 a. r. 8 p. Under authority of Congress, in 1872, squares 1^0. 687 and 688, in the NE. and SE. angles of the E. Park, were purchased and thrown into the grounds. 3. The Park extends from the W. line of the Mall, on 15th St. W., to the banks of the Potomac, and is separated from the S. gardens of the President's Grounds by B st. N., form- erly the line of the Tiber Creek and the Washington Canal. The old channel of the Tiber entered the Potomac on the NW. border of this reservation. These grounds are occupied by the Washington Monument and the Government Nurse- ries. Total area, 29 a. 3 r. 9 p. 4. The University Square extends from E st. N. to the banks of the Potomac, and between 23d and 25th sts. NW. On these grounds is the Naval Observatory. Total area, 21 a. Or. 18 p. 5. The Arsenal Grounds, foot of ^ st. W., originally included the point of land at the confluence of the Anacostia and Potomac, from Greenleaf 's Point to T st. S., and between the mouth of James Creek and the line of 3d st. W. to the Po- tomac. Total area, 28 a. 2 r. 31 p. This reservation in 1857 was extended by the purchase of the land between the line of the canal into James Creek and W. to the Potomac and N. to P St. S. 6. The West Market Squahe, on the Potomac, at the foot of 20th and 21st sts. W. covered with water. RESERVATIONS. 23 7. The Centre IMarket Square, between the point of intersection of Pennsylvania and Louisiana avs. on the N. and B st. N. on the S., and from 7th to 9th sts. W. Total area, 2 a. 3 r. 29 p. This reservation in 1860 was granted to the corporation for the use originally designed, and is occu- pied by the principal market in the city. 8. The National Church Square, between 7th and 9th sts. W. and F and G sts. N., now occupied by the Patent Office. Area, 4 a. r. 22 p. 9. Judiciary Square, between the intersection of Indi- ana and Louisiana avs. on the S. and G st. N. on the IST. and 4th and 5th sts. W., occupied by the City Hall and Jail. Area, 19 a. 1 r. 27 p. In 1819 a portion of this reservation was granted by Congress to the corporation for a Town House or City Hall. In 1845 another portion was granted for Public School purposes. 10. Reservation N. of Pennsylvania av., between 3d and 4 J sts. AV., in 1822, was granted by Congress to the cor- poration, to be sold in lots, to pay for the removal of the canal, which then ran along the S. side of Pennsylvania av. to the centre of the Mall, from 3d to 6th sts. W., and to till up the low grounds in that vicinity. Total area, 6 a. r. 31 p. 11. Reservation between B and C sts. N. and 2d and 3d sts, W. Total area, 3 a. 2 r. 34 p. Disposed of same as reservation No. 10. 12. Reservation N. of Pennsylvania av., between 2d and 3d sts. W. Total area, 1 a. 1 r. 4 p. Disposed of same as reservations Nos. 10 and 11. 13. Hospital Square, from the Anacostia to 19th st. E. and between B and G sts. S. Total area, 77 a. r. 26 p. On this square stands the Magazine, Alms House, and new Jail. 14. The Navy Yard, bounded by M st. S. on the N., the Anacostia on the S., and lies between the continuation of 6th and 9th sts. E. Total area, 12 a. 3 r. 15 p. On these grounds are the buildings, docks, ship-houses, and works of the Washington Navy Yard. 15 and 16. EASTERN Market House Squares, near the Navj'- Yard. These reservations were granted by Congress to the municipal corporation for the purpose stated. Area, No. 15, 1 a. r. 21 p. ; No. 16, 1 a. r. 23 p. 17. Town House Square, the irregular space S. of the Capitol, between S. Capital st. and 3d st. E. and E and H sts. S., intersected by New Jersey and Virginia avs. Total area, 21 a. 1 r. 29 p. The aggregate area of the public reservations in the city, deducting those disposed of, correction of errors, and modifi- cations, is 513 acres. 24 AVENUES. In 1812 the President of the United States was authorized to take possession of the whole of the public reservations, and to lease them out for not exceeding ten years, on such terms and conditions as in his judgment might best effect their im- provement for walks, botanic gardens, or other public pur- poses. A detailed description of the reservations occupied by the Grovernment will be found in connection with the public buildings or their other designating feature. Avenues, — The avenues and streets nave an aggregate length of 2G4 m. — avenues 65 m., streets 199 m. — and are of greater width than those of any other city in the world. With the alleys and open spaces at intersections they cover 2,554 a., or about two thirds of the area of the entire city. The ratio of street areas to areas of three of the principal cities in the United States and the same number in Europe is : Paris, France, 25.8 per cent. ; Berlin, Prussia, 26.4 per cent. ; Boston, United States, 26.7 per cent. ; Pliiladelphia, United States, 29.8 per cent.; Xew York, United States, 35.3 per cent. ; Vienna, Austria, 35.8 per cent. ; Washing- ton, United States, 41.8 per cent. The carriageways of the avenues and streets are well laid, with a variety of pavements, amounting to over ]15 m. Xov. 1, 1872, in the following pro- portions :"Wood, 34.71 m. ; round block, 5.05 m. ; compound wood and concrete, 0.87 m. ; concrete, 16.34 m. ; Belgian and granite, 4.01 m. ; cobblestone, 6.76 m. ; macadamized, 8.08 m. ; graveled and roads, mostlv in the county, 39.22 m. : total, 115.54 m. Cost, 84,081,716 78. At the time of going to press 50 m. were in course of completion. This length is computed on tlie basis of an assumed width of 32 ft. The improved styles of pavements have been laid on principal thoroughfares of business and pleasure and on the avenues and streets occupied by the better class of residences. The cobblestone, in streets less traveled, mostlj^ south of Penn- sylvania av. The ISlcAdam is but little used within the city, oVing to the dust, but is extensively employed on the high- ways traversing the rural districts within the Territory. Originally there were 13 avs., named after the States in the Union wlien the city was laid out. Others on the first plan, but undesignated, were named after States subsequently ad- mit'.v d, though not in the order of their admission. There are now 21 avs., nineteen varying from 120 to 160 ft. wide, and two 85 ft. wide, radiating from principal centres or con- nectiug different parts of the city. From THE Capitol— Delawabe av., 160 ft. wide, N. 15° 44' E. to Boundary. AVENUES. 25 New Jersey av., 160 ft. wide, N. 15° 44^ W. to Boundary. :Maryland av., 160 ft. wide, N. 62° 25' E. to Boundary. Pennsylvania av., 160 ft. wide, S. 62° 27' E. to Anacostia. Tliese same avs. are continued beyond the point of inter- section, and form the corresponding radiation on the S. and W. Maryland av., W. of Capitol, N. 70° 22' E. The inter- mediate broad streets intersecting at right-angles are N., E., and S. Capitol sts. From THE President's House- New York av., 130 ft. wide, N. 66° 9' E. to Boundary. Vermont av., 130 ft. wide, N. 24° 31^' E. to Boundary. Connecticut av., 130 ft. wide, N. 24° 31^' W. to Bound- ary. 'Pennsylvania av., 130 ft. wide, N. 66 W. to Eock Creek and Georgetown. These same avenues are continued from the centre of inter- section at the President's House, and form the corresponding radiation on the SE. and SW. Pennsylvania av., from the President's House to the Capi- tol, is 160 ft. wide, and runs S. 70° 33' 30" E. New York av., W. of President's House, is 160 ft. wide, and runs S. 70° 27' W. From Lincoln Square, E. of the Capitol— Tennessee av., 120 ft. wide, N. 32° 25' E. to Boundary. North Carolina av., 160 ft. wide, N. 62° 30' E . to Bound- ary. JtlASSAOHUSETTS av., 160 ft. wide, S. 62° 26' E. to Hospital Square. Kentucky av., 120 ft. S. 33° E. to the Anacostia. Tennessee and Kentucky avs. start here, while Massachu- setts and North Carolina avs. intersect and cross, forming the corresponding diverging avs. on the W. Under the old corporation, with the exception of a few spasmodic attempts, as the necessities of an increased popu- lation became urgent, no efforts were made to improve the avenues, streets, and spaces. For a half a century Pennsyl- vania av. was the only improved thoroughfare. An act of Congress, approved April 6, 1870, authorized the corporation to set apart one half the width of any or all the avenues and streets under its jurisdiction for parking, leaving a roadway of not less than 35 ft. width in the centre, or two such road- ways on each side of the park, should that be placed in the centre. Pennsylvania and Indiana avs. and 4^ st. W., be- tween the City Hall and Pennsylvania av., were excluded from this arrangement. On July 8, of the same year, Con- gress authorized the paving of Pennsylvania av. at the Gov- ernment expense. Under the Board of Public Works, created 26 DESCRIPTION OF AVENUES. under the organic act of 1871 of the District, the improvement of the thorouojhfares of the city was systematically under- taken. A plan of grades was adopted, to which all avenues and streets were rnade to conform. This gave a regularity and finish which do not fail to strike the eye with pleasing effect. Description of Avenues.— The broad thoroughfares are among the principal attractions of the National Capital, and the finest possessed by any city in the world. A drive upon them, especially of an evening, when thronged with hand- some equipages, aflbrds a truly enjoyable recreation. Pennsylvania av. is not only the principal, but also one of the two longest in the city. * It is, however, twice interrupted in its continuity — by the President's House and Capitol. Its width varies from 130 to 160 ft. It is about 4^ m. in length, from Georgetown and Rock Creek to the Anacostia, and is the main line of communication across the city. Along its route are the Washington Circle, the War and Treasury Departments, and Presidenfs House. From 17tli to 15th sts. the avenue pre- phesident's house, 1870. sents a particularly fine prospect, passing between the North Park of the Presidents Grounds, in front of which is a side- walk 34r} ft. wide, and Lafayette Square. From 15th st. W. to the Capitol it traverses the entire length of the finest business quarter and the fashionable drive. It thence winds up and around the hill surmounted by the Capitol, and continues to its terminus on the banks of the Anacostia. At the foot of 8th St. E., leaving this avenue, is the Navy Yard. Pennsyl- DESCRIPTION OF AVENUES. 27 vania av. was also the earliest used. In 1800 it was opened and rudely drained from tlie Capitol to Georgetown. During the administration of Jefterson, from the Capitol to the Pres- ident's House it was laid out in three roadways. A row of Lombardy poplars was planted between the centre or main roadway and that on either side. A flag-stone footwalk also ran from the Capitol to Georgetown. In 1825 the sidewalk on the S. side was paved with stone from the Capitol to the Navy Department. In 1832 the trees were cut down, the curbs extended, and a drained macadamized roadway, 45 ft. wide in the centre, laid out. The "centre strip," however, was not entirely completed till 1849, and then was shaded with elms, maples, and "trees of heaven." In 1842 it was lighted with lamps from the Capitol to the President's House ; subsequently it was paved with cobblestones, and so remained till 1870. J^Iassachusetts Avenue is the longest unbroken in the city, being over 4^ m. It begins at the NW. Boundary, at 22d St. W. ; is 160 ft. wide, and extends to the Ana- costia SE., intersecting New Hampshire and Connecticut avs. at 19th and P sts. NW., forming the Pstreet Circle; Vermont a v. at 14th and M sts. N W., forming the Fourtee^ith- street Circle; New Yorkav. at 8th and K sts. NW., at Mount Vernon Place; New Jersey av. at 1st and G sts. NW. ; Del- aware av., between E and F sts. NE. ; Maryland av. and 5th and C sts. NE. at Stanton Place; Tennessee, North Caro- lina, and Kentucky avs. and E. Capitol and 12th sts. E. at Lincoln Square^ and thence to the Hospital Grounds on the Anacostia. Tills avenue is the most beautiful in the city, gradually rising to an elevation considerably above the surrounding heights, from which it descends in easy gradation to the mid- dle of the broad intermediate valley, and rises again on the east. On its route are the finest circles and squares. The roadway is in the centre, while on either side are brick side- walks and plots of grass. From Rock Creek this avenue is paved with concrete, and from that point to New Jersey av. wood pavement. Beyond it is ungraded. Vebmont and Connecticut Avenues, 130 ft. wide, extending respectively NE. and NW. from the N. side of Lafayette Square, pass through two of the most attractive portions of the city. New York Avenue, 130 ft. wide, is a fine thoroughfare. It begins at the Potomac and runs across the city in a NE. direction. From the Treasury Department it is parked in the centre, with a fine vista of young trees. Maryland Avenue, 160 ft. wide, extends NE. across 28 DESCRIPTION OF AVENUES. the city from Long Bridge to the Baltimore Turnpike. SW. of the Capitol it is used for railroad purposes. New Jersey and Delaware Avenues, 160 ft. wide, begin respectively at the Anacostia and the Arsenal Grounds, and run NW. and NE. to the Boundary, crossing each other at the Capitol. Georgia Avenue, 160 ft. wide, begins at the Arsenal Grounds and runs NE., near and parallel to the Anacostia, striking it for a short distance W. of the Kavy Yard, and ter- minates at the Hospital Grounds. South Carolina Avenue, 160 ft. wide, begins at Kes- en^ation No. 17, S. of the Capitol, runs NE., and terminates in Massachusetts av. Virginia Avenue, 120 ft. wide, begins near the mouth of Kock Creek and runs SE., crossing Sfew Hampshire and New York avs., to the Potomac, near the SW. corner of the President's Grounds. On the S. boundary of the Mall, at 12th St., it resimies, the width being 160 ft., and terminates at the Anacostia, crossing Maryland av., Keservation No. 17, and Georgia av. Khode Island Avenue, 130 ft. wide, starts at Connect- icut av. and M st. N., runs NE., intersecting Massachusetts av. at 16th and IST sts. N^Y. ; Vermont av. at 13th and P sts. NW., to the Boundary. New Hajnipshire Avenue starts at the Potomac, be- tween E and F sts. N. ; is 120 ft. wide, and runs NE., crossing Virginia av., 23d and P-street Ch'cles, to the Boundary. Louisiana Avenue, 160 ft. wide, begins at the City Hall, runs SW. to Central Market Square, crossing Pennsylvania avenue. Indiana Avenue, 160 ft. wide, begins at the City HaU, runs SE. to 1st st. W. In 1850 it was improved from the City Hall. Missouri and Maine Avenues, 85 ft. wide, begin at the E. line of the Mall at 6th st. W. : run respectively SE. and NE. to 3d St. W., the western limit of the Botanical Garden. Ohio Avenue begins at the E. line of the S. Park of the President's Grounds at C st. N. ; runs SE. to Centre Market Square. North Carolina, Tennessee, and Kentucky Ave- nues, in the E. part of the city, are but little built upon. All these avenues are more or less improved by the lajnlng of stone, concrete, wood, cobble, or Belgian pavements, or macadamized or graveled roads, with parking. Executive Avenue, the construction of which began in 1871, begins at Pennsylvania av. E . and W. of the President's DESCRIPTION OF AVENUES. 29 House, and opposite 15^ and 16| sts. W. The W. entrances each consist of 6 massive granite gate-posts, upon wliich are swung iron gates. The avenue encloses a portion of the Pres- ident's Grounds on tlie E. and W., and on tlie opposite sides are the Treasury Department E., and the War and Navy De- partment and the edifice now building for the joint use of the State, War, and ISTavy Departments W. A granite stair- case, 20 ft. wide, with a fountain at the foot of the E. one, is built in the terrace on either side of the President's House, completing communication by the gravel walks leading to the Executive Departments. The sidewalks are richly paved and well lighted. Passing S. of the President's House, on either side, at the prolongation of E st. N., the two wings of theav. form a semi-circle, the two extremities uniting opposite the S. Portico of the President's House, and proceed in a broad sin- gle line due S. to B st. N., where the av. enters the Park or Monument Grounds, and joins the beautiful Drive, commenced in 1872, connecting the President's and Capitol Grounds. The Drive. — Leaving the S. terminus of Executive av., the Drive^ consisting of a graveled roadway of 35 ft., planted on either side with trees, sweeps along the banks of the Po- tomac on the right, affording a superb view of the expansive bosom of the river N., till lost behind the hill crowned by the N'aval Observatory, and S. as far as the Long Bridge. On the left is a Lake, in course of completion, covering 3 a., fed by a spring on its SE . border and the waters of the Potomac . With- in a small enclosure, about 100 yds. W. of the Washington Monument, and on the left, near the av., is a gray freestone, a little over 2 ft. in heiglit, which marks the centre of the District of Columbia, as laid out in 1791-'92. The Drive now winds around the Monument. On the S. may be seen the green-houses and plants of the Government Propagating Gar- den. The wooden buildings, still standing on the hill near by and used as Government hospitals and by the Commissary Department of the United States Army 1861-'65, are now occupied for blacksmith-shops, tools, and storage by the Commissioner of Public Buildings and Grounds. The Drive enters 14th st. W. nearly opposite the entrance of the Agricul- tural Grounds^ and connects with the carriageways of that beautiful reservation. At this point also commences the Mall. Prior to 1816 this attractive portion of the public grounds was covered with majestic oaks, which were cut down about that year, under the stipulation in the agreement of the Com- missioners with the original proprietors that the latter should be entitled to the wood on the lands. Even the trees which cast a grateful shade over a refreshing spring at the foot of Capitol HUl, near Pennyslvania av., were thus destroyed. 30 STREETS. Crossing 12th st. W., the drive enters the quiet retreat of the Smithsonian Institution^ and leaving this at 7th St., enters Armory Square^ so named from the Armory of the District Militia located on tlie S. portion, and talj;es a w^inding course to 6th St. W. This portion of the roadway is 1,300 ft. long, and will cross the track of the Baltimore and Potomac Kail- road at 6th St. W. on an ornamental iron bridge, with a 40 ft. roadway and 12 ft. sidewalk on either side, to be con- structed by that company in compliance with the act of Con- gress. From 6th st. the Drive continues through the reserva- tion to ^ St. W., and thence W. to the line of 3d st. W., terminating opposite the W. entrance to the Botanical Gar- den. It is proposed to extend the Drive across the garden, so as to complete the connection with the Capitol Grounds without leaving the line of the Mall, thus carrying out the original plan of the city, which contemplated a walk and drive between the President's House and the Capitol. The Drive, in connection with the roads of the Agricultural and Smithsonian grounds, is nearly 2 m. in length. Streets.— The streets of the city run from N. to S. and E. to W., crossing at right angles. The streets running N". and S. are designated mimerically and by the words E. or W., according to their positions with respect to the Capitol, which is tlie dividing point — as 1st st. E. of the Capitol, or 1st st. W. of the Capitol, and so on. The streets running E. and W. are designated by the letters of the alphabet and by the word ^. or S., according as they are situated N. or S. of the Capitol, the dividing point — as A st. N., A st. S., which are the tirst streets IsT. and S. of the Capitol, and so on. Tiie streets E. of the Capitol number from 1st to 31st St., includ- ing the seven subject to overflow, and W. from 1st to 28th W. The lettered streets run to W st. IST. and to V st. S. The limit of the city inland, or on the N., is known as Boundary Street. To avoid confusion, the city is divided into 4 quarters or sections— NE. and NW., SE. and SW. N". and S. Capitol sts., running on a N. and S. line from the Capitol and E. Capitol St., and the prolongation of the same replaced by the Mall, running at right angles, constitute the dividing lines. The streets vary in width from 70 to 160 ft., and are paved, macadamized, or graveled, according to their importance. The avenues and streets are numbered after the plan adopted in Philadelphia ; that is, 100 numbers to each square, commencuig E. or W. and N. or S. of the Capitol. For in- stance, 100 would be the first number beyond 1st st., and 200 beyond 2d to 3d st., and so on, the intermediate numbers RENOiMENCLATURE. 31 ending in the block. The same rule is adopted for lettered streets and avenues. Principal Streets.— E. Capitol. Street, 160 ft. wide, ex- tending ni front of the Central Portico of the Capitol E. to the Anacostia, was originally designed to be the chief street of the capital. N. and S. Capitol Streets, each 130 ft. wide, and re- ceive their designation from the direction they take with respect to the Capitol as the centre. These streets lie on the first meridian or longitude for the United States, as laid down by Ellicott, 1791. K Street N., the longest unbroken lettered street, is 148 ft. wide, and extends from Rock Creek to the Anacostia. It is one of the most beautiful thoroughfares of the city, and on much of its length is bounded on either side by fine residences. 16th Street W. is 160 ft. wide, and extends from Lafaj'-- ette Square, opposite the N. Portico of the President's House, due N. to the Boundary. It presents a tine prospect. Boundary Street follows on the line of the city limits, from the intersection of Maryland av., loth, and H sts. NE., to Rock Creek on the W. There are a few streets which are not part of the general plan of the city. These vary from 40 to 65 ft. in width. Eenomenclature.— It is proposed to abolish the present sys- tem of nomenclature of the streets with duplicate letters and numbers. This plan is not only extremely confusing to stran- gers, but embarrassing and a source of great inconvenience to residents. The proposed renomenclature contemplates for streets running N. and S. a system of consecutive numbers, beginning at 2Sth st. W., which would be 1st St., and termi- nating at 31st St. E., which would be 60th St., the additional street necessary to make up that aggregate being 4| st. W. or 21st St. First sts. W. and E. at the Capitol would be 29th and 30th sts. respectively. N. and S. Capitol sts. would re- tain their present names. It is also proposed to adopt for the streets running E. and W. a nomenclature which would re- quire no alteration in the letters, selecting for each the name of some citizen eminent in the service of the Government or in private life, the initial letter to correspond with the letter w'hich now designates the street. For instance: Streets North of the Capitol— A(}iims, Benton, Clay or Clin- ton, Douglas, Everett, Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Jeffer- son, Kent, Lincoln, Marshall, Nelson, Otis, Peabody, Quincy, Randolph, Story, Tompkins, Upshur, Van Buren, and Web- ster. Streets South of the CoptYoZ— Anderson, Bainbridge, Chaun- 32 SEWERS. cey, Decatur, Ellsworth, Farragut, Grant, Harrison, Jackson, Knox, Lawrence, Marion, Nash or Nicholson, Overton, Per- ry, Quitman, Kodgers, Scott, Taylor, Union, Van Ness, and Warren. Parking, — The street parks and sidewallvs of the avenues and streets are generally planted with trees possessing the merits of stateliness and symmetry of growth, expansive foli- age, early spring verdure, variety of colors in autumn, healthi- ness, cleanliness, and vigorous and rapid growth. The varie- ties used are the silver maple, American linden, European sycamore maple, American elm, tuli^) tree, sugar maple, sweet gum, red maple, Norway maple, negundo, American ash, buttonwood, oaks, and European ash and linden. The trees are usually planted 40 feet apart. The American white elm has been planted on E. Capitol st. The supply is kept up from the reserve Nurseiy on the banks of the Anacostia in the grounds S. of the Alms House, where there is constantly a stock of upwards of 20,000 plants from 2 to 9 feet in height. In 1873, 6,000 young trees were planted. All are carefully boxed, and at intervals watered and pruned : the latter in or- der to preserve uniformity of growth. The narrow roadways and side or centre parking of the Avider avenues and streets overcome their barren appearance, and adds vastly to the adornment of the capital. Quarters. — The arrangement of the streets with respect to the Capitol, as we have seen, divides the city into 4 sections. The Northwest Quarter constitutes the finest portions of the capital, embracing the President's House, all the Departments and Foreign Legations, the principal business establishments, fashionable residences and squares. The Southtoest Quarter^ formerly known as "the Island, " from its separation from the rest of the city by the Washington Canal, now filled, is gen- erally the quarter of persons of moderate means. In it are also the wharves. The Northeast Quarter is the same as the SW. The Southeast Quarter, with a small portion of the NE., is known as " Capitol Hill," from the Capitol, which stands on the W. brow. It was intended, originally, to make it by art what it is by natm*e — the finest portion of the city. It has many attractions, and promises, in time, to compete with the magnificence of the West End. Sewers. — The cities of Washington and Georgetown, for the purpose of sewerage and drainage, are diA^ded into 5 sec- tions. 1st. Georgetown, embracing the limits of that city. 2d. Slash Run, beginning at the intersection of Eock Creek and K St. N^7. ; thence along K to 21st NW. ; along 21st to I St. N. ; along I to 17th W."; along 17th to H st. N. ; along SEWERS. 33 11 to 10th W.; iiloiio- IGth to I st. N.; along I to loth W. ; along 15th to Vermont av. ; along Vermont av. to 14th W. ; along lltli to Bonndary; along Bonndary to Eock Creek; along Rock Creek to beginning. 3d. The intermediate sec- tion," beginning at the intersection of Eock Creek andK st. NW. ; thence along K to 21st ISTW. ; thence along 21st to I st. NW. ; thence along I to 19th NW. to G st. NVV. ; thence along G to the Potomac Eiver ; along Potomac Elver and Eock Creek to the beginning. 4th. The intercepting section, be- ginning at the intersection of Potomac Eiver and G st. N W. ; thence along G to IDtli NW.; thence along 19th to I st. NW. ; along I to 17th ; along 17th to H st. N. ; along H to 16th W. ; along IGth to I st. N. ; along I to 15th W. ; along loth to Ver- mont av.; along Vermont av. to 14th W. ; along 14th to N St. IST. ; along IST to Vermont av; along Vcrjnont av. to O st. N. ; along O to 7th NW. ; along 7th to B st. N. ; along B to Gth W. ; along 6th to B st. S. • along B to Potomac Eiver; along Potomac Eiver following the borders of stream to be- ginning. 5th. The Tiber Basin, beginning at intersection of Boundary and 14th st. W. ; along 14th to N st. N. ; along N to Vermont av. ; along Vermont av. to O st. N. ; along O to 7th AY. ; along 7tli to B st. N. ; along B to 6th W. ; along 6th to B St. S. ; along B to Potomac Eiver ; along Potomac Eiver to the Anacostia; along the Anacostia to C st. NE.; along C to 15th E. ; along 15th to Boundary; along Boundary to beginning. The sewerage of the city formerly drained into the canal, which crossed the city from the Anacostia to the Potomac S. of the President's Grounds. From 3d to 15th st. W. it ran directly in front of the Capitol, and separated the beautiful grounds on the Mall from the rest of the city. This open mass of filth and disease was filled in 1872. The B-street Intercepting Seiver^ 1 m. in length and 12 ft. in diameter, was constructed in place of the canal. The main branch empties into the Potomac at the foot of 1 7th St. W. One of the largest sewers in the Avorld is the Tiber- creek Scwer^ so named from the stream which flows through it. It is a brick arch 24 to 30 ft. span, and 15 ft. high, aiid drains the entire city E of 6th st. W. — about 3,000 acres. Its outlet is at the Tiber arch, near the W. entrance to the Botan- ical Garden, on 3d st. W., into which the smaller branch of the intersecting or canal sewer from 7th st. W. empties. The line of this great sewer, from its mouth, passes under the Botan- ical Garden and Pennsylvania av. N. to E st. N. at its junc- tion with N. Capitol st., which it follows to K st. N. The portion from H to K st. is now under construction. The destination of this sewer is the Boundary, reached along K 3 64: SQUARES. St. X. to 1 >t pt. E. ; tlicnce by tlie latter. When completed, it will be 2 111. ill k'ii<;tli. Branch sewers of 9 ft. each are bein^ built out from 3d st. NW. and F st. NE. From the Tiber arch a large sewer extends SE. The Slash-run Sewer, ^ m. long, 10 ft. span, named after the natural watercourses which enter the city in several branches on itsNW. boundary, empties into Eock Creek. A 9-ft. conduit sewer is also being built along Boundary st., in the NE. part of the citj% as supple- mentary to the Tiber-basin sj^stem. Small tile and pipe sew- ers convey the sewerage of streets and dwellings into the general system. There are about 10 m. of main sewerage, including 5 m. of brick sewers, from 4 to 9 ft. in diameter, and 80 m. of tile and pipe. Squares. — In addition to the grounds attached to the public buildings, and which Avill be described in tliat connection, there are a number of beautiful squares in various parts of the city. Tliose W. of the Capitol are — Lafayette Square, a parallelogram of 7 a., X. of the President's House, and between 15^ and 16J sts., frequent]}^ popularly known as Madison and Jackson sts., respectively, from the early residence of those distinguished gentlemen upon them. The broad av. extending to the N. is IGth St., tlie high ground at its terminus being'Meridian Hill. From the President's Grounds on the S. it is separated by a broad av., which extends from l^th to 17th sts. This square is beau- tifully laid out in graveled walks with seats. It is adorned with trees and slirubbery, many of them rare and valuable species and in pleasing variety. It is liglited throughout with gas, tAvo of the lamp-posts combining drinking foun- tains. A watchman's lodge, also partly for the public, stands on the N. side. The building is approached at either end by circular walks, screened by rows of evergreens upon each side and in front llower beds. Two bronze Vases 7 ft. high, weighing 1,300 lbs. each, mounted on granite pedestals, stand on the E. and W. sides of the square. These are copies from an antique vase, and are the work of the brass foundry of the Navy Yard. They were cast with the permission of Mr. Robe- son, Secretary of the ISTavy, and rellect great credit upon the workshops of the Governm^'nt. In the centre of this square is Clark ^Mills's equestrian statue of General Andrew Jackson, contracted for by the Jackson Monument Association, com- posed of the friends and admirers of the subject, who sub- scribed $12,000 for the purpose. lu 1848 Congress granted to the Association the brass guns and mortars captured by the General at Pensacola. In 1850 an additional number of brass guns and national trophies, sutRcient to complete the SQUARES. 35 statue, were donated by Congress. In 1852 Congress appro- priated funds for the erection of the marble pedestal upon which it stands, and in 1853 made a further appropriation of 820,000 for the statue itself, and made it the property of the United States. The statue is one third larger than life, weighs JACKSON EQUESTIMAN STATUE. 15 tons, and cost, inclusive of the value of metal and the amount contributed by the Association, $50,000. The hind parts and tail of the horse being solid, the animal is poised, without the aid of iron rods or other devices as in the great statues of Peter the Great, George III, and the Duke of Wel- lington. This was the first application of this principle. The statue was unveiled in the presence of a large number of peo- ple, Stephen A. Douglas delivering the oration, on the 8th day of January, 1853, the anniversary of the battle of New Orleans, in which General Jackson routed the British forces under Sir John Packenham. From the N. line of Lafayette Square, on the E. and W. extremities respectively, diverge Vermont and Connecticut avs. On the former, just beyond I st. W., the first trans- verse St. N., is Scott Square^ and in the corresponding loca- 36 SQUARES. tion on Connecticut av. is Farragut Square^ each containing \\ a. Both these squares have a paved roaclwaj^ of 24 ft. width cut through them, running on a line with the avs. They are laid out in walks, with seats and drinking fountains for j)edestrians, and are in every way attractive popular re- sorts for the neighborhood. In the centre of Farragut Square is an ellipse, in which will be placed the Colossal Statue of Ad- miral Farragut^ for which $20,000 was voted by resolution of Congress April 16, 1872. At the intersection of Massachusetts and Khode Island avs. and i*^ and 16th sts. NW., less than ten minutes' v\'alk on 16th St., due N". of the President's House, is an unnamed square of about 1 a., situated in one of the most interesting portions of the city. In this square, erected in 1874, stands the Colossal Bronze Equestriari Statue of Brevet Lieutenant General Winfield Scott, ordered by Congress in 1867. This magnificent work of art represents the General in full miiform, mounted on a war charger at rest. He holds the reins in the left hand and a pair of field glasses in the right, the latter resting against his hip, and with calm martial bear- ing surveys the field. The figure is 10 ft. from the stirrups to the chapeau and horse and rider 15 ft. The pose is one of grace, dignity, and firmness. The charger, with ears thrown up and nostrils dilated, every vein flushed with life, stands ready to obey the commands of his rider. The design is by H. K. Brown, sculptor, New York, and was cast by Robert Wood & Co., of Philadelphia, out of bronze cannon, trophies of the valor and skill of the General in the Mexican war, and donated by Congress. The statue weighs 12,000 pounds, involved the labor of eight skillful artists nine months, and will cost $20,000. The statue is considered one of the finest of the kind ever made in the United States, and is not only creditable to the sculptor and the founders, but to American art. The pedestal stands 14 ft high, consisting of platform, sub-base, base, die, and cap, of Cape Ann granite, in five large blocks. Total height of the pedestal and statue 29 ft. The platform is 26 ft. long, 13 ft. wide, and 2 ft. thick, and weighs 119 tons 1,197 lbs; sub-base, 20 ft. X 10 ft. X 1 ft., 84 tons; base, 17 ft. X 7 ft. X 3 ft., 41 tons; die, 15 ft. X 5 ft. X 5 ft., 38 tons; and cap, 17 ft. X 7 ft. X 3 ft., 37 tons 1,500 lbs. Total weight of pedestal, 320 tons 697 ft)S. The entire pedestal, when quarried, weighed 400 tons 621 lbs. These are the largest stones ever successfully quarried in this country, and among the largest, if not quite so, in the world. Great difficulty was experienced in their removal to the seacoast, whence they were transported to the National Capital by sea. The site for this statue is ad- SQUARES. 37 mirablj' chosen, tlie broad street and intersecting avenues affordinc^ a view of it from various parts of tlie city. Franklin Square, between 13th and 14th sts. W. and I and K sts. IST., comprises 4 a., and was purchased by the Government in 1829 in order to secure control of a fine spring, the waters of wliicli, as early as 1832, were conveyed in pipes to the President's House and Executive offices. This water is still used for drinking purposes at the President's House, it being considered better than that from the Potomac. The spring'lies N. of the foiuitain, beneath two iron and stone covers, built in the arch constructed over the spring. It was not until 1851 that this square was laid out. In the centre is a small fountain, with a basin 30 ft. in diameter, and a keep- er's lodge, with other conveniences, near by. There are also several drinking fountains. The square is planted with a pleasing variety of ornamental trees and shrubs. Judiciary Square, on the original plan of tjie city, was designated reservation No. 9, and was set apart for the then contemplated buildings for the accommodation of the judicial branch of the Government. It comprises 19^ a., and ex- tends on the S. from the intersection of Louisiana and Indi- ana avs., at the head of 4J st. W. to G st. N., and between 4th and 5th sts. W. The S. portion, fronting on 4^ st., is occupied by the City Hall. On the iE. side, beyond E st., was erected the immense temporary wooden structure for the ball given in honor of the Second Inauguration of President Grant, March 4, 1873. In the NE. angle is the Jail. On the W. side, during the re- bellion, 1861-'65, wooden buildings were erected foi' soldiers' hospitals, afterwards donated to the uses of the Women's Christian Association, but since removed. This square is being made one of the most attractive in tlM3 city. Rawlins Square, on New York av., SW. of the Pres- ident's Grounds, between 18th and 19th sts. W., containing about \\ a., is beautifully laid out, with walks, trees, ever- greens, and shrubbery. It has two small rustic foiuitains, with ornamental margins and centre-pieces of rock- work. This square, prior to 1872, was a low, desolate waste. It was filled up to the grade, and covered with earth capable of sus- taining vegetable growtli, and planted with trees and ever- greens. The change has added a pleasing feature to a por- tion of the city in many respects naturally uninviting. In this square will be placed the Statue of General John A. Rawlins., Adjutant General and Chief of Staff to General Grant, and later Secretary of War, and for which $10,000 was voted by Congi-ess in 1872. Mount Vernon Place, at the intersection of Massachu- 38 CIRCLES. setts and New York avs. and K and 8th sts. NAY., till 1871, was occupied on tlie E. half by the Northern Market. It is now beautifully laid out and planted. In the centre is a raised circular space, containing a bronze fountain. A short distance S. of Pennsylvania av., on the E. side of 6th St. W., is what is known as Circus Lot; that part of the reservation in which it is embraced being set apart for that purpose. The rents are contributed to charitable insti- tutions. There are other spaces in the TV. portions of the city, but are without name. Of these is the wedge-shaped space, of about 4 a., between 3d and 4^ sts. and Missouri and Maine avs., lying W. of the Botanical Garden; and adjoining it, on the W., another area of 17^ a., which extends to 7th st. The W. portion is known as Armory Square^ from being the site of the District Armory. Also one of ^ a., N. of the ;Mall, at the intersection of Ohio and Louisiana avs. Lincoln Square lies 1 m. directly E. of the central Por- tico of the Capitol, on E. Capitol St., and at the intersection of Massachusetts, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Kentucky avs. It comprises Q\ a., and is beautifully laid out in walks and planted with trees and shrubs. In the centre is a raised circular mound, on which it is proposed to erect a statue to the President from whom the square received its name. On either side is a small fountain. It was in this square, in the original embellishment of the Capital, that the Historic Col- umn was to be built ; to serve also as a Mile or Itinerary Col- umn^ from which all geographical distances in the United States were to be calculated. There is an excellent distant view of the Capitol from here. Stanton Place lies NE. of the Capitol, at the intersec- tion of Maryland and Massachusetts avs., and comprises 3^ a. A short distance S. of tlie Capitol, at the convergence of New Jersey, South Carolina, and North Carolina avs., is a large tract, originally laid out as Keservation No. 17. It contains 23^ a., or, on the first maps, 21 a., and was set off as the site for the Town House or City Hall, but has never since been considered in that connection. It is still with- out improvement, though the subject has been called to the attention of Congress. ^ There are other squares in the SE. parts of the city vacant and unimproved. Of these might be mentioned one of 3^ a., at the intersection of Pennsjdvania and North Carolina avs.; one of 2^ a., at the intersection of Pennsylvania and South Carolina avs.; and one of 1^ a., on North Carolina av., be- tween 2d and 3d sts. E. It is the purpose to extend to these spaces the improvements contemplated. ORNAMENTAL GARDENING. 39 Circles, — The spaces at the hitersections of the more import- ant avenues form what are termed Ch-cles, containing ^ acre or less. These constitute most beautiful features. The Washi?igton Circle^ on 23d st. W., at the intersection of Pennsylvania and NewHampsliire avs., and passed on tlie way to Georo-etown, contains tlie Colossal Equestrian Statue of General George Washington^ by Clark jNIills, ordered b,y Congress in 18o'3, and for which $50,000 were appropi'iated. The statue was cast out of ginis donated by Congi^ess, and represents Washington at the crisis of tlie Battle of Prince- ton, the horse shrinking before the storm of shot and din of conflict, while the rider preserves that equanimity of bearing- native to his great character. The Fourteenth-street Circle^ at the intersection of Massa- chusetts and Vermont avs., is chastely laid out in walks, and planted with a choice selection of evergreens, trees, plants, shrubs, and flowers. In the centre is a rustic fountain, with a Scotch terra-cotta foundation-bowl and rustic stone centre- piece, and in ditterent parts of the circle are rustic stone and wooden seats. A short distance beyond, on Vermont av., at the intersection of Khode Island av., is the Thirteenth- street Circle^ as yet without particular improvement. On P St., in the direction of Georgetown, and at the inter- section of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire avs., is the P-street Circle^ 380 ft. in diameter, and laid out m walks and lighted. It is designed to erect in this circle a fountain 50 ft. in diameter, with coping and centre-piece of handsome design in marble or granite. A fine selection of evergreens and trees will also be planted. Several fine residences face upon it. The residence of the British Lega- tion is in the vicinity. The terminus of Pennsylvania av., on the Anacostia, widens into a semi-circle of nearly 5 acres, as yet but little improved. Triangles, — At the intersection of the avenues and streets are small spaces, designated Triangular Reservations. Many of these E. and W. of the Capitol are planted with trees and shrubs, and are further beautified with small fountains. Birds. — A flock of imported sparrows was set at liberty in the public grounds in 1871 for the destruction of insects. During 1873, 425 cages, in addition to those previously put up, were placed in the trees for the accommotlation of their increased numbers. These useful birds are fed regularly every morning during the winter in Franklin, Lafayette, and other squares. Ornamental Gardening.— In 1851 A. J. Downing, the cele- brated landscape gardener, was employed by the Government 40 engineer's office. to lay out the public parks and reservations. The grounds of the President's House were to be extended to the line of the Washington Canal, now B st. jST., and to be laid out with a circular parade-ground, .lined with trees in the centre. A carriageway, by means of a suspension bridge, was to con- nect the S. Park of those grounds with tlie Mall, near the Washington Monument. A drive was to follow the ^lall to the Capitol. The Mall itself was to be beautifully adorned with lawns, walks, drives, trees, and shrubbery. Lafa^^ette, Franklin, and tlie other squares were to be laid out by the same person. The achniralDle schemes of improvement con- templated by this truly artistic gardener were suddenly in- terrupted hj his death in 1852. During the single year of his service he prepared a general plan for the laying out and beautifying of the public grounds. This, in a great measure, has been carried out by Ins successors. In the Smithsonian Grounds may be seen a beautiful Vase, erected by the Amer- ican Pomological Society to tlie memory of Downing. A description of this tribute to his genius will be found in its appropriate place. Previous to this the attempts at the appropriate laying out and planting of the public parks were both crude and spas- modic. In 1826, more than a quarter of a century after the Government had made the city its permanent seat, there were no public walks, save the dusty avenues. In 1831 the grounds around the Capitol and President's House wei-e still in the unkempt condition of nature unadorned. In 1832 the old Treasury Building was enclosed. The next year the pedestal wall and railing were placed in front of the Park of the President's House, and the S. Park, near the mansion, was plantrnl with trees. In 1834 the foot and carriageway were completed. In 1835 Lafayette Square was improved and planted, and supplied with lamps. In 1837 the W. Park of the Capitol Grounds was extended to take in part of tlie Mall from the circular road around the building to 1st St. W., mak- ing an addition of 8 a. The park was walled in and the grounds laid out in walks and supplied with fountains. In the same year the President's Grounds were in more creditable condi- tion. In the S. park, towards the then line of the canal, it was proposed to lay out an extensive fish-pond, to supply the Presi- dent's table with fish. The public grounds, an eyesore to the community and a reflection uponthe tase and liberality of Congress, were again neglected. Engineer'a Office. — It was not until 1871 that a course of systematic imjirovement was inaugurated by Major O. E. Bab- cock, Corps of Engineers U. S. Army, Engineer in charge BOTANICAL GARDEN. 41 Public Buildings and Grounds, under whose supervision are all squares, circles, and triangles, tlie Propagating Garden, and the grounds of the President's House, Smithsonian In- stitution, and Wasliington Monument, and reservations not otherwise provided for. Tlie control of sucli otlier reserva- tions belongs to the department bj^ wliich occupied, and tlie Capitol Grounds and Botanical Garden to Congress. Con- gress annually appropriates funds, to be expended under tlie Office of Engineer, for salaries of employees; the improve- ment and care of the public grounds not otherwise specially assigned; repairs and refurnishing the President's House, green-houses, and for fuel ; lighting the Capitol, President's House, and public grounds, purchase of new posts, repairs, and pay of lighters ; and construction and repairs of all bridges on the Potomac and Anacostia, and repairing and extension of Government water-pipes. The total appropriations, for 1873 were $829,042, of which $265,550 were for care of grounds, $369,536 for a new bridge across the Anacostia, and the bal- ance on all other accounts. Propagating Garden. — The Government Propagating Gar- den, originally on Missouri av., between 3d and 4J sts. W., is beautifully situated on the banks of the Potomac, S. of the Washington Monument. The garden covers 8 a. The forc- ing houses are supplied with apparatus for the propagation and growth of plants of the rarest species and varieties. In 1872rfrom the old garden, upwards of 20,000 papers of flower seeds were collected and cured. These, with surplus plants, sometimes numbering upwards of 10,000, consisting of roses, chrysanthemums, verbenas, geraniums, begonias, and other hot-house annuals and shrubs propagated at these gardens, were distributed to members of Congress, and others notified by circular letter that such stock was ready. A Nursery is connected vrith the garden, in which trees and shrubs are gi'own for the supply'of the public parks. Botanical Garden. — Open daily, d a. m. to 6 p. tw.— This instructive place of public resort is situated at the foot of Capi- tol Hill, extending from 1st to 3d sts. W., and between Penn- sylvania and Maryland avs. There are two main entrances for pedestrians, one opposite the main central W. gate of the Cap- itol Park and the other on 3d St., opposite the E. end of the Drive. Each entrance consists oifour marble and brick gate piers, with iron gates. No wheeled vehicles arc i)ermitted in the garden. The avenues diverging from the W. Cajjitol Park give the garden a wedge-shape, the narrower end facing the W. front of the Capitol. It comprises 10 a., surrounded by 42 BOTANICAL GARDEN. a low, brick wall, with stone coping and iron railino-, and is laid out in walks, lawns, and flower-beds. jN". of the Main Conservatory is a Isivgefomitain, with 9 main jets and a mar- ble basin 93 ft. in diameter. The fountain is supplied from the Acqueduct, and throws its highest stream to an altitude of 65 ft. This fountain in full play presents a beautiful ef- fect^ especially wdien reflecting the raj^s of the sun. S. of the Conservatory is a smaller fountain, with a granite basin. During the summer the hardiest plants, in boxes, are ranged on either side of the main walk, and contribute materially to the beauty of the garden. Tlie Main Conservatory, commenced in 1867 from designs by Mr. Clark, Ai'chitect of the Capitol, consists of a central dome and two wings. The base is of marble and the super- structure iron. The entire lengtli is 300 ft., greatest width 60 ft., lieight of dome 40 ft., and wings 25 ft. Tlie do)ne is supported on a brick column, which answers the double pur- pose of being a chimney also. Around this column winds an iron, spiral staircase, whicli leads to a cupola sm-rounded by a balustrade. From this point the llnest view of the AY. front of the Capitol may be obtained. The key is kept by tlie Su- perintendent. There are 10 smaller Conservatories, of brick and wood, in one of wliich is a Lecture or Botanical Class- room, with accommodations for 100 students. Tlie latter fea- ture contemplates the appointment of a Professor of Botany by the colleges of the capital to hold lectures here. All the conservatories are heated by hot water, conducted in iron I)ipes, supplied from 5 boilers. Three of the boilers are in the vaults under the pavement of the dome of the Main Conser- vatory. The object of the garden is education and the disr tribution of rare plants. For the latter purpose there are 4 conservatories devoted to propagation. All seeds are saved. The garden is under the control of the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library. Each member of Congress, on ap- plying to the chairman of the committee for plants or seeds, is supplied, if practicable. Boquets are frequently obtained in the same way. Botanical Collection.— The first collection of plants in this National Conservatory was brought to the United States by the Exploring Expedition to the "Southern Hemisphere, 1838-'42, commanded by Captain (Rear Admiral) Charles Wilkes. The collection was first deposited in the Patent Office, but in 1850 was removed to the Botanical Garden. Some of 1 he plants are still living, and a large shai'c of the present collection are the descendants of those brought back by the Wilkes Expedition. A few have furnished represent- atives for many of the principal conservatories of the United States and Eiu-ope. BOTANICAL GARDEN. 43 The disposition of the collection is according to a geograph- ical distribution. The strictlj^ tropical plants occupy the cen- tre Conservatory, and those of a semi-tropical nature, requir- ing protection and lying towards tlie N. pole, are jjlaced in the W. range and wing; and all indigenous to countries lying towards the S. pole are in the E. range and wing. The Centre Building or Rotunda^ temperature 80^, contains a fine variety of the majestic palms, called by Martius the princes of vegetation, and of which there are 300 kinds, the most prominent being here represented. The most interest- ing in the collection is the palm tree of Scripture, familiarly known as the date palm. Jericho, the City of Palms, was so called from the numbers of this tree growing in its vicin- ity. It was recommended to be used by the Jew^s in the Feast of Tabernacles. In Arabia, Egypt, and Persia it sup- plies almost every want of the inhabitants. The fruit is used for food, the leaves for shelter, the wood for fuel, and the sap for spirituous liquor. It matures in 10 years and then fruits for centuries, bearing from 1 to 300 cwt. at a time. Among the Arabs the pollen dust is preserved from year to year, and at the season of impregnation of the pistils or female flowers a feast called "Marriage of the Palms" is held. It is a singular historical fact, that the date palm of Egypt bore no fruit in the year 1800, owing to the presence of the French army in the country, which prevented the an- nual marriage feas,t. Among the other plants in this portion of the Conservatory are the fan, royal, ratan, sago of Japan and China, Panama hat, oil, wine, coco de Chili, sugar, and cradle palms ; the East India bamboo ; the tree fern, from New Zealand ; as- trapea, from Madagascar ; screw pine of Australia, with its cork-screw leaves and roots in mid air ; the cinnamon of Ceylon ; maiden's hair fern ; mango, a delicious fruit of the West Indies; and banana, that most prolilic of all plants; the great stag and elldiorn ferns from Australia, (very fine specimens,) and the dumb cane of South America. The sap of the root of the latter will take away the power of speech. Humboldt, during his explorations in South America, was eight days speechless fi'om tasting it. The outer circle of the rotunda is devoted to the smaller tropical plants. The E. range^ temperature 50=', and loing^ 40°, are de- voted more particularly to the plants of the South Sea Islands, Brazil, Cape of Good Hope, Australia, and ISTew Holland. The principal specimens are the tree fern of New Zealand ; the aloe and the CafFre bread tree from the Cape of Good Hope ; the India rubber, the passion flower, the caladium, of Brazil; Norfolk Island pine of Australia, one of the most 44 BOTANICAL GARDEN. beautiful and largest-growing trees in the world ; the queen plant, or bird of paradise flower, from its resemblance to the plume of that bird ; the tutui, or candle-nut tree, from the Society Islands, the nut being used by the natives for ligliting their huts ; the cofl'ee plant, and several varieties of cactus. To the W. range and wing^ temperature same as E., the plants of China and Japan, the East and West Indies, and Mexico are assigned. Tlie most notable plants here are the cycadacea3, of the East Indies, the largest in the country; the four-century plant ; the camellia japonica, or Japan rose ; the lovelj^ lily of Cuba; the historic jpapyrus aniiquorum^ or paper plant, of Egypt; the tallow and leechee trees of China; the guava, a delightful fruit of the West Indies ; the vanilla of Mexico, the species which furnishes the aromatic bean ; the black pepper from the East Indies ; the sugar cane, the clieramoyer, or custard apple, and cassava of the West Indies ; the sensitive and the humble plants ; the American aloe, or century plant, of Mexico ; the camphor tree from Japan ; the tea plant ; the papay, an Oriental tree, which has the property of rendering the toughest meat tender ; a plant of the adansonia digitata, or monkey bread, which gTows on the banks of the Senegal, and reaches the enormous circum- ference of 100 ft. They are supposed to attain the age of 5,000 years. They have many uses. Humboldt pronounces them the oldest organic monuments of our planet. There is also a specimen of the carob tree of Palestine, sometimes called St. John's bread. The pulp around the seed is sup- posed to have been the wild honey upon which St. John fed in the wilderness. There are other interesting speci- mens of the vegetable kingdom, including a pleasing variety of climbing plants. The arrangement of the exotics in the Central Conservatory presents the appearance of a miniature tropical forest, with its luxuriant growth of tree and vine. Until recently the Conservatory was in possession of a speci- men of the bohan upas tree, of which such fabulous stories have been told. Each ^^•ing of the Conservatory is supplied with a fountain. In the W. range is a vase, brought from St. Augustine, Florida, and taken from the first house built on the J^orth American continent within the present limits of the United States. A fine specimen of maiden's hair fern grows in the vase. The outside conservatories are generally used for propaga- tion. One, however, is specially' devoted to camellia japo- nica, and another to that curious growth, the orchids or air plants. The botanical collection received some valuable con- tributions from the exj^edition of Commodore Perry to Japan. The supply is kept up by propagation and pm-chase, and at LIGHTINa OF THE CITY. 45 rare intervals by scientific or exploring expeditions of the United States. Superintendents of the Botanical Garden. — 1850-1852, W. D. Breckenridge ; 1852, William R. Smith. HiSTOBY. — The design of the projectors of the city contem- plated the location of a botanical garden upon one of the extensive reservations which had been set apart for public purposes. In 1798 there was considerable discussion as to its location. A deputation waited upon the Commissioners of the city and urged the S. Park of the President's Grounds, but as the object was the enjoyment of the public, it was seen fit to establish it in its present desirable situation near the Capitol. The topography of the ground, however, was most uiiin\it- ing. The Tiber flowed across one end of it, and most of it was low and marshy, and exposed to the ebb and flow of the tides in the Potomac. There is a tradition that it was the early execution ground of the city, and that no less than five criminals were hanged there. In 1822 the Botanical Society of Washington was incorporated by Congress. The society, prior to its incorporation, through the individual eftbrts of those interested in botanical researches and investigations in the District of Columbia, had prepared a full list of plants, and as early as 1817 had arranged them according to the Lin- naean classification and the more fashionable arrangment of Jussieu. The grounds assigned to the society were the same now used by Congress for that purpose. Under the auspices of the societj^ the marshy portions were dredged and con- verted into a small lake, into which the tide continued to ebb and flow. A few of the native trees were planted, consisting of fine oaks, button woods, gums and persimmons. The only vestige remaining of these primitive eff'orts at a botan- ical garden are two post oaks. After the discontinuance of the society the garden was used as a deposit for rubbish. In 1850 the representative management was assigned to the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library. The first buildings were then erected, and the office of Superintendent created. This post was first filled by W. D. Breckenridge, who had been horticulturist and botanist to the Wilkes Ex- pedition. A systematic course of improvement was inaugu- rated out of the annual appropriations by Congress, begin- ning with the filling of the entire grounds to a depth of 5 to 6 ft. Lighting of the City. — ^The lighting of the city is entirely by private companies. The first of these was incoq^orated in 1848. In that year Congress made an appropriation of $2,000 46 STATUES. for payii^i^ the Washington Gas Companj^ for lighting the Capitol and Capitol Grounds, to include fixtures ;"for laying pipes from the main pipe at the Capitol to the foot of loth st. W., on both sides of Pennsylvania av., and for 100 lamp- posts and lamps and other necessary fixtures. This was the fii'st use of gas in the city. In the same year gas was also first introduced into the President's House. It has since grown into general use. The Government provides for the lighting of all public buildings and grounds, and the District for avs. and sts. Statues. — The statues in the public parks contribute greatly to the adornment of the capital. The principal are Green- oughts Washington, in marble, in the E. Park of the Capitol, and those of Jefferson^ E. of the President's House ; Jackson^ in Lafayette Square ; and Washington^ in Washington Circle, in bronze ; the Equestrian Statue of General Scott\ in bronze, to be placed on 16th st. W. ; a statue of Lincoln^ in marble, surmounting a small column of the same material, in front of the City Hah. A description of all statues will be found in connection with the grounds in which they are placed. Statues of Admiral Farragidiin{\ General Rawlings have been ordered by Congress. In 1792 .Jeherson urged the commissioners of the city to employ one Cerachi, aultalian sculptor, to exe- cute the equestrian statue of Washington ordered by the Con- tinental Congress. The sum of 20,000 guineas was to be the cost, and Jetlerson suggested the sale of city lots to supply the funds. No action 'was taken. In 1794 the same sculptor was brought forward as the best person to design and execute the IMonument to American Liberty proposed to be erected E. of the Capitol, in what is now Lincoln Square. This was also abandoned. Water Supply. — The water of tlie city is carried from the Great Falls of the Potomac, by the Aqueduct, a distance of 12 m., to a Distributing Reservoir, 2 m. from Kock Creek and 4^ m. from the Capitol. The daily supply is 30 million galls, and consumption 17 million galls., or 1^7 galls, to each per- son — the largest of any city in the Avorld. The full capacity of the Aqueduct is 80 million galls. A description of this remarkable work will be found in another part of this Hand- book. In the effluent screen w^ell at the distributing reservoir are laid four 48-in. mouth-pieces for the supply of the city. Three of these are reduced in the pipe-vault to 86-in., 30-in., and 12-in . Leaving the vault these three mains run parallel across the country to a small stream ivuown as Foundry Branch. WATER SUPPLY. 47 Near this point they strike the road aloiio: the Cliesnpeake and Ohio Canal, which they follow through Bridge and Aque- duct sts., Georgetown, to Kock Creek, a distance of 2 m. On the way the 30 and 12-in. mains cross College Pond, over an arch of 120 ft. span, composed of two 30-in. pipes. The 36-in. main is laid in the bottom of the creek. At Hock Creek two of the three mains are joined, so tliat the water is conveyed through two 48-in. pipes, which form an arch of 200 ft. span across that stream. These arches also sustain a roadway for a horse railway and general traffic between the cities of Washington and Georgetown.' At the E. end of the bridge the three mains are resumed, and following Pennsylvania av. E., the 36-in main, laid by the District, enters L st. N., following it to New Jersey av.; tlience by that avenue, in a 30-in. main, to Massachusetts av. and B st. N.; thence, in a 20-in. main, to 11th st. E., where it terminates; the 30-in. main, laid by the United States from Rock Creek, leaves Pennsjdvania av. at the Washington Circle, following K st., Massachusetts and New Jersey avs. to B st. N., and thence is continued in a 20-in. main through B st. N. to 11th st. E. A branch from this main supplies the Botanical Garden, Smithsonian and Arsenal Grounds. The r2-in. main, laid by the United States from Rock Creek, follows the line of Penn- sylvania av. and Sth st. E., thence to the Navy Yard wharf, on the way passing around the Capitol Grounds by A st. N. and 1st St. E. Distance, 4f m.; or Gf m. from the reservoir. These mains supply all the public buildings and fountains, besides the daily consumption of the city. The branch pipes for the latter are laid at the expense of the District. By law the water-rates are regulated to cover the expense of laying new pipes and keeping old ones in repair, but cannot be a source of revenue. The total length of Distrihvting Pipes, Nov., 1873, was 132.69 m., of which 16.89 were laid by the Washington Aque- duct, 10.41 m. by tlie late coi-poration of Georgetown, and 105.3 m. by the City of Washington. The pipes are supplied with stop-valves and attachments. There are also upwards of 500 fire-plngs ; also drinking fountains, hydrants, taps, and water-services, water-meters, &c. A tax of |- of 1 cent, per square foot is assessed upon all property which binds or touches upon any street in which a main water-pipe has been laid. Tliere is also an annual fire- plug tax on all buildings situated within 500 ft. of any main pipe, the owners or occupants of which do not pay an annual water-rate or tax. The annual revenues are about $150,000. In founding the capital, it was proposed to utilize the springs within the city, and the Tiber, which entered from 48 THE HARBOR. the N. The elevation of the source of the latter was 236| ft. above tide. Its water was to be carried to the Capitol. After also supplying the E. part of the city, the excess was to be conducted to the W. front of the Capitol, and form the proposed Cascade^ to have a fall of 20 ft. and width of 50 ft. into a reservoir below. Thence the water was to be distributed into three falls across the W. Park, the Botanical Garden, and the Mall. In 1832 one of the earliest efforts in this direc- tion M'as to convej^ the water of Smith's Spring, 2 J miles I^J". of the Capitol and 30 ft. above its base, in pipes to the reser- voir in the E. Park, and from thence into the buildina;. The surplus was conducted under the building, and feeds tlie foun- tain in the W. Terrace. In 1836 Congress purchased this spring and 1 acre of land adjoining, and enclosed it. In 1837 a scant supply was carried in pipes from the reservoir in the E. Park along the N. side of Pennsylvania av. to the Treas- ury Department, and subsequentlj^ to the General Post Office. In 1832 the spring in wliat is now Franldin Square supplied the President's House and "public offices." It does the same now, though the Aqueduct water has also been inti-oduced. At the same time a new spring at K and 13th sts. X\Y. was opened, and carried a supply of 60 gallons a minute to the vicinity of F and 13th sts. ISTW. Also pipes were laid from a spring on New Jersey av., S. of the Capitol, and from an- other just W. of the Navy Yard, wliich supplied tlie SE. sec- tion of city near the Anacostia. Over half a century elapsed before the Aqueduct was built. Fountains. — In the public parks and squares are a number of fountains, some of which, though not elaborate in design, contribute greatly to tlie beauty of the city. The largest is in the Botanical Garden. There are also line ones N. and E. of the President's House and N. of tlie Treasury Depart- ment. The latter consists of an immense granite urn, in a basin of tlie same material, with side outlets formed of lions' heads. In Mount Vernon Place is another, with a bronze centre-piece. There are many of smaller dimensions. The first public fountain was erected in 1810, by the corporation and voluntary subscription, and bore the inscription, "By the Mayoralty. Kobert Brent, Esq." The Harbor, — In front of Washington the Potomac, re- leased from the hills above Georgetown, expands into a broad lake-like river. The Potomac River rises in the Alleghany Mountains, and after a course of 400 m. empties into the Chesapeake Bay. At its confluence with the bay it is 7J m. wide, and in front THE HARBOR. 49 of Washington 1^ m., with 18 ft. of water. The Anacostia at its mouth is nearly as wide as the main stream, and is fully as deep. Salt water reaches to within 50 ra. of the city. The average tide at the Navy Yard is 3 ft. The Harhm of Washington consists of a channel extending from Greenle'if 's or Arsenal Point, the upper point at the junction of the Anacostia and Potomac, to the foot of 17th St. W., a distance of | m., and also a small channel in the Anacostia. The Potomac Channel has an average width of 400 ft. up to Maryland av. or Long Bridge, between the depths of 6 ft. at mean low water, and narrows to 250 ft. at the Arsenal wharf. The greatest depth to the lower wharves at 6th st. SW. is 11 ft., and to Maryland av. 8 ft. Above Long Bridge this channel gradually shoals, and is lost in the flats otF 17th St. The Anacostia Channel has an average width of 350 ft., between the depths of 6 ft. on either side, and narrows to 250 ft. The greatest depth to the Navy Yard is 14 ft., and 1 m. above is but 6 ft. The Harbor of Georgetown consists of a depression in the bed of the Potomac, lying between the town front on the left bank and a small portion of the right or Virginia bank and Analostan Island, near the same bank. This harbor has an average width of 800 ft., with an average depth of 25 ft. at mean low water. The depth over the bar in tlie main chan- nel of the Potomac just below this harbor is but 10 ft. at mean low water. This depth has been increased to 15 ft. by dredging. The Main Channel, starting at the harbor of Georgetown, runs between Analostan Island and Easby's Point, the S. end of 27th St. W., along the bank of tlie river to the W. end of Long Bridge, and thence to Geisborough, or the lower point of the mouth of the Anacostia. Off this it joins the channel of the Anacostia and that from the Potomac front of Wash- ington. Here the three unite, and form the broad channel, which extends down the main river. The length of the main channel from the canal aqueduct at Georgetown to deep water at Geisborough Point is 4f m. The depth at mean high water at the shoalest place in the Potomac below Wasli- ington is 22 ft. Between the main channel of the Potomac and the shore lying between 17th and 27th sts. W. lies an expansive marsh of about 1,000 a., known as the flats, and mostly covered with a rank growth of water-grass. One third is clear at low water, and the remainder is covered from 1 to 4 ft. It is stated by the engineers who have made a survey 4 50 COMMERCE. that these deposits increase yearly as the shores above are cleared of forest. Wharves. — The wharves of the city, along the banks of the Potomac, at the foot of 17th St., are used by wood and sand craft; and 7th st. W., by steamboats and schooners. Those on the Anacostia, W. of the Navy-yard, are used for wood, lumber, coal, stone, sand, and other articles brought to the Washington market. The 17th st. w^harves are among the oldest, and were- known as early as 1806 as Van Xess wharves, after General Van Ness, their owner. At this point also was the entrance to the old Washington Canal. The ruins of the Van Ness warehouse are still to be seen near by. Canal. — For the convenience of the wood, coal, and sand- boats, and other small craft, James Creek, which enters the Anacostia immediately E. of the Arsenal, has been dredged to a depth of 8 ft. at low- water mark, and widened to 60 ft. as far as Virginia av. at its intersection with S. Capitol st. It is the design ultimately to abandon the present wharves at the foot of 17th st. W. The old Washington Canal, ^\iiich connected the Anacostia at the foot of 2d st. E. with the Po- tomac at the foot of 17th st. W., commenced in 1791 and fin- ished in 1837, has been filled from 3d to 17th sts. W., and a covered sewer built in its place. Commerce. — In addition to its central location, consid- ered with reference to the bounds of the United States iu 1790, the site for the Federal City on the Potomac Kiver also had the advantage of easy water communication with the Chesapeake Bay and the Ocean. Its location was also farther inland than could have been secured on tide water on any other navigable stream on the Atlantic seaboard. In those early days such recommendations were paramount. Tlie pro- ject of improving the na\agation of the Potomac and the con- struction of a canal to connect with the head-waters of the Ohio promised an increase of these facilities. Alexandria, 7 m. beloAV, already enjoyed a considerable commerce with the cities and towns on the Chesapeake, along the Atlantic coast, and the ports of foreign lands. Georgetown, just above, also had a local trade of some importance. The introduction of steam on tlie Potomac took place shortly after its satisfac- tory application as a motive power in navigation. The Wash- ington, Alexandria, and Baltimore Steaiii-packet Company was succeeded by the Washington, Alexandria, and George- toAvn Steam-packet Company, incorporated in 1829. The facilities of travel on the river and bay, and to pomts N. by sea, have at different times since been largely augmented. HARBOR IMPROVEMENT. 51 Merchant vessels belong:mg to the customs district of George- town, which includes Washington — 1872, sail 78, 2,081 tons ; steam 25, 5,084^ tons; unrigged 309, 18,490^ : total 412, 25,- 656 tons. There is an extensive home trade on the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay, and by Sea, with the cities on the Atlantic seaboard. Direct foreign trade, however, is small, all imported goods being received through other ports. In 1872 but one foreign vessel arrived. The dutiable imports amounted to but $1,804, and domestic exports $2,416. Harbor Improvement.— In 1872 a board of officers was ap- pointed, under an act of Congress, with a view to the im- provement of the channel of the river and the water fronts of Wasliington and Georgetown for commercial purposes, and the reclamation of the poisonous marsh opposite the city. The board reported three plans, that most favored proposing but one channel, of sufficient width and depth for all purposes , a du-ect continuation of the river at Georgetown, to run along the right bank of the river as far down as Gravelly Point, and thence directly toward Geisborough Point on the left bank, joining the deep channel of the river at that point, following nearly the present main channel of the river, and affording a frontage of 7 m. The channel, 23 ft deep, would be of suffi- cient width to enable the largest vessels to move with ease and free from danger of grounding, and also to discharge the heaviest freshets. The great freshet of about 1852 swelled the river at the old Chain Bridge, just below the Little Falls, to a height of 43 feet above mean high water ; at the Aque- duct Bridge, 10 ft. ; at the Arsenal, about 3f m. below, 4| ft.; and at Alexandria, about 3^ m. still lower down, 2^ ft. The width of channel adopted for the Anacostia is 600 ft., with a depth of 23 ft. at mean low water at the Navy Yard Bridge. For the transshipment of coal from the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, in front of Georgetown, it is proposed to erect suitable docks and J9ier5, to be continued by lines of bulkhead, includ- ing piers, the whole commencing at the NE. corner of High and Water sts., Georgetown, and extending along the entire Washington front on the Potomac and Anacostia to the outer end of the IST. abutment of Anacostia Bridge. With these improvements Long Bridge would be recon- structed, with spans of not less than 200 ft., and a pivot-draw, with two openings of not less than 160 ft. clear in each, the bridge to be constructed for railroad and ordinary travel. The estimated cost of the whole work is $6,000,000 ; or less expen- sive materials, $4,000,000. Land reclaimed, 1023 a.; time to complete, 4 yrs. 52 BRIDGES. It is proposed to remove the Naval Observatorj'^, and use the earth for filling. Extension of the City, — ^Long Bridge, to the water front, to be designated Railroad Avenue^ would be laid out in a road- way 200 ft. wide, with space for rail-tracks in the centre and a carriageway on either side. The irregular space between Maryland av. continued to the water, Kailroad av., and the bulkhead, including streets, 44 a., with 4 piers, to be re- served for railroad freight depots and workshops. The Mall would be extended W. to proposed Potomac av., would give an aggregate length of 2yV ni-? and would form a magnifi- cent triple avenue, sweeping away in front of the W. fa- pade of the Capitol, by the side of which would tower the Washington Monument, and along whibh could be erected statues and monuments to the memory of the great men of the Kepublic. The general system of streets and avenues would be extended over the reclaimed ground outside of the Government reservations, 454 a., with the exception of Kail- road av., now Long Bridge and Potomac av., 200 ft. wide, to run the entire length inside the bulkhead. The street, 100 ft. wide inside the bulkheads, on the Anacostia front, called by the name of that stream, would run from the Arsenal to the Navy-yard. Bridges. — There are no fine bridges across the Potomac or Anacostia connecting Wasliington with the opposite shore. At the beginning of the present century there were four bridges: one across the Potomac into Virginia, and three across the Anacostia ; all owned by private companies. There are now the Long Bridge across tlie Potomac, which is also used for a railway, and the Navy Yard and Benning's, or the Upper Bridge, across the Anacostia. The Baltimore and Potomac Eailroad Bridge also crosses the Anacostia above the Navy-yard. In 1809 a pile bridge, 1 m. long, vnth a draw on the E. and W. ends, was in use across the Potomac. The SW. end was destroyed in 1814, by order of the Government, during the presence of a foreign enemy. It was restored in 1816. In 1832 the Government purchased it and built a new one, which was destroj^ed by ice in 1836. It was restored in 1838. In 1850 it was proposed to build an iron or stone arched bridge, but after plans were submitted the matter dropped. The railroad portion of the present Potomac bridge was built in 1872. The entire structiu*e consists of a way for vehicles and pedestrians and for the track of the Washington and Alexandria Railroad. Near the Washington end is a small draw over the E . channel. From this point a causeway crosses BRIDGES. 53 the marshes of the river to the Vir^mia channel, which is sur- mounted by a wooden structure, with a draw sufficient to ad- mit of the passage of the largest vessels. It was by this bridge that most of the vast armies of the United States marched into Virginia during the rebellion, 1861-'65. In 1814 the bridges over the Anacostia were also burned by order of the Government. In 1819 the Navy Yard Bridge^ which crosses the Anacostia from the foot of 11th st. E. and terminates at Uniontown, or E. Washington, was built. It is a dilapidated wooden structure, with a small draw. It is proposed to erect a new bridge, with stone abutments and iron superstructure. A short distance E. of this structure are yet visible some of the charred timbers of the old bridge destroyed at the time of the invasion. Above is the bridge of the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad^ used only for railroad pm-poses. The bridges within the District are Benning''s Bridge^ a wooden structure | m. above the ISTavy Yard ; the Aqueduct Bridge of the Alexandria Canal at Geoi'getown, and " Chain " Bridge at the Little Falls, 4 m. above. The latter received its name from the original strurjture, which was a chain-suspension bridge, built before 1811. The E. portion of the present bridge, was carried away by the freshet of 1870, thus sharing the fate of several previous structures. Here the river is compressed within a narrow channel, and in the ramy season rises upwards of 40 ft. In the whiter great damage is also done by the immense ice gorge which forms here. In 1872 Congress appropriated $100,ObO for the erec- tion of a suitable iron bridge. In the same year a contract was awarded, but nothing has since been done. All bridge across the Potomac, except the Aqueduct Bridge at Georges town, are now the property of the Government, and free to- the public. Communication between Washington and Georgetown across Rock Creek is maintained by three bridges. The Fennsylvania-av. Bridge is a fine iron structure, consisting of an arch of 200 feet, formed by two 48-in. pipes, used to con- vey the Aqueduct water into the city, and upon which rests the roadway. The M and P-st. Bridges are also superior specimens of bridge architecture. The James Creek Canal, in the SE. parts of the city, is spanned by iron and stone bridges. In the county stone culverts are used over natural watercourses. In this part of the District there are 39 m. of improved roads. The old culverts, where showing signs of decay, are being re- placed by new structures of a similar character. In Union- town, on the S. bank of the Anacostia opposite the Navy-yard, on the road to the National Insane Asylum, is a very fine brick culvert, erected in 1873 by the Board of Public Works. 54 TELEGRAPHS. Street Eailways, — Since 1862, when first incorporated, these popular modes of city convej^ance have been greatly extended. Two lines cross the city E. to W. and two N". to S., and from Pennsylvania av. on 15th st., opposite the jSTE. angle of the Treasury N., to the Boundary on 14th st. W., and another from the same point to the E . Boundary. Kew enterprises of this character are laid out or in course of completion. There are 45 m. of st. railway in the two cities and District, estimated on the basis of a single track. [See General Information.] Kailroads. — The capital is accessible by railway from all parts of the United States. Previous to the establishment of railways, the Government patronized the opening of wagon- roads and canals to carry all trade centering at the District into the city. A through road of communication across the Alleghenies was fostered and carried to completion. In 1828 Congress authorized the railroad company incorporated by the State of Maryland to build a road from Baltimore to Wash- ington, to enter the District and city ; Congi-ess merely re- taining jurisdiction of the soil. This was the first eftbrt to establish railway communication with the National Capital. A lateral branch of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad into Washington was authorized in 1831. By 1841 there were two trains, daily, each way, between Washington and Balti- more — time, 21 hours. The incorporation of the Washing- ton and Alexandria in 1854, and the lateral branches of the Baltimore and Potomac in 1867, together with the extensions of the Baltimore and Ohio, have connected the National Cap- ital with the railroad systems of the E., N., W., and S. [See General Liformation.] Telegraphs.— In 1843 CongTess appropriated $30,000, to be expended under the Secretary of the Treasury, for testing the capacity and usefulness of the system of electro-magnetic tele- graphs invented by Samuel F. B. Morse, of New York, for the use of the Government of the United States. In 1845 the line was completed between Washington and Baltimore. In 1846 Congi*ess ordered that the proceeds of the line be placed in the Treasury of the United States for the benefit of the Post Office Department, in the same manner as revenues from post- ages. From this beginning the present extensive system of telegraphic communication began. The various Unes are now owned by private corporations. The telegraph is now the principal means of conveying intelligence respecting the op- erations of the Government to the people of the country through the newspapers. [See General Information.] SECTION III. PUBLIC BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS. HISTORICAL RETROSPECT. ., y^^^^HE Legislative and Executive branches of the i-^ -*^ Government occupy buildings erected expressly for their accommodation. The co-ordinate, or Judi- cial branch, is yet Avithout a structure of its own, v^'^rf^ though sucli provision for its accommodation was ^'^ r*" originally contemplated. The Capitol is devoted to the purposes of Congress, and affords limited facilities for the sessions and business of the Supreme Court of the United States and Court -of Claims. The Executive, with its various departments, occupies a number of buildings. The public edifices used for these purposes are not only attractive in architecture, but are immense in proportions, and practically without limit in durability. They are all built of the best qualities of granite, marble, or freestone, with interior finish of brick, iron, and glass. In comparison with tlie buildings of other Governments, used strictly for governmental purposes, they are without an equal, and more frequently without a rival. The buildings occupied by the executive oflices are desig- nated according to the natm-e of the executive business trans- acted in them. For instance, the Treasury Department con- tains the various offices under the direction of the Secretary of the Treasury. There is one exception, however : the building occupied by the Department of the Interior, which is known as the Patent Office, it having been erected to serve for the display of models. The Patent Office proper is but a bureau of the Department of the Interior. The increase of the Government business and the inad- equate accommodations afibrded by the public buildings, commodious as they are, has necessitated, in a number of cases, tlie purchase or renting of private buildings in different parts of the city. The Department of Justice occupies the upper portion of 56 THE CAPITOL. the Freedmen's Bank building. Winder's building, origi- nally erected for a hotel, now owned by the Government, is used by several of the bureaus of the War Department. A number of the bm-eaus of the other executive offices are similarly provided for. The tirst edifices built for tlie accommodation of the exec- utive ofiices were the War Office, 450 ft. SW., and the Ti*eas- my, on a corresponding site SE. of the President's House; the former before and the latter after 1800. Both faced S. The War Office, now the Navy Department, was later trans- ferred to the new building on the N. In 1818 Congress au- thorized tlie erection of two new buildings N. of tiiose then standing. These were completed during the administration of Prestdcnt Monroe. The fom- structures were then desig- nated according to then' location with respect to the Presi- dent's House; that is, the ISTE., SE., NW., and SW. Execu- tive BuUdings — respectively State, Treasury, War, and Navy Departments. The site of the first two is now occupied by the Treasury Department. The War and Navy Departments are still standing, but will shortly be removed, to make room for the new State, War, and Navy Department now build- ing. The first building, designed by George Hadfield, Archi- tect of the Capitol, formed tlie models for all. They were brick, originally 2 stories liigh, 120 to 160 ft. front, 60 ft. deep, and 16 ft. high, with a freestone basement and Ionic portico. They were subsequently raised and otherwise modified. It was originally intended to have a passage between them and the President's House, but this was abandoned. The SE. building, or Treasury Department, was destroyed by fire in Marcli, 1833. It then occupied temporary quarters on Penn- sylvania av. In 1836 the erection of a new Treasiu-y Depart- ment, more suitable in design and dimensions, was com- menced on the site of the old. Before the business of the Government became so great, all the offices were accom- modated in the four buildings. The Patent Bureau then oc- cupied rooms in the NE., the Attorney General's Office and Indian Bureau in the NW., and the General Land Office in the SE. Executive Buildings. THE CAPITOL. The Capitol of the United States {open every day^ except Sunday) stands on the W. brow of the plateau which forms the E. portion of the city. It may be reached from the more populous sections by street cars. Pennsylvania av., from APPROACHES. 57 Georgetown, leads to one of the gates at the foot of the hill, below the W. entrance. From the President's House, by Pennsylvania av., the distance to the Capitol is 1|^ m., and the same from the most remote of the principal hotels. The street cars pass in front of or close by all the hotels. Street Oars.— The Pennsylmnia-av. (marked ''Capitol**) Street Cars^ from the W., pass around the Capitol on the S., and by a branch track from S. B St., carry visitors to the SE. angle of the S. Extension, occupied by the House of Representatives. Strangers should be careful to take a car for the Capitol. Those marked "Navy Yard" run within a short distance of the same point. Those of the same line for the Baltimore and Ohio RR. Depot would leave them on the N. line of the grounds, and some distance from the building. The Metropolitan^ or F-st Cars, by a branch track, land pas- sengers on the plateau at the NE. angle of the N. or Senate Extension. Strangers should be careful to take a car for the Capitol. The same line of cars to the E. parts of the city on E. Capitol St. also pass near the same point. Site. — The Capitol occupies very nearly the centre of the plot of the city, there being 25 sts. E., 27 sts. W., 22 sts. N., and 21 sts. S. On a straightline, however, di*awn from NW. to SE., it stands about ^ m. towards the latter point. The great white Dome which surmounts the mighty pile, rising high in the air, is visible for miles around — indeed from every elevated point in the District. From it, as far as the eye can reach, may be seen rolling hills, broad valleys, and rivers. The E. fa9ade of the building looks out upon the expansive plain of Capitol Hill, with a background of beautiful elevations, those on the right being beyond the Anacostia; the X. across a broad intervening valley to the wooded encircling hills of the city; the S. down upon the low grounds and sparsely settled portions of the city, with the broad Potom Maj. Gen. Knox, Commander of Artillery; 29, Lieut. Col. Huntingdon, acting Aid to Gen. Lincoln; jo. Col. Timothy Pickering, Quartermaster General; Ji, Col. Alexander Hamilton, commanding Light Infantry ; 32, Col. Laurens, of S. C; 33^ Col. Wal- ter Stuart, of Penn., and 34, Col. Nicholas Fish, of N. Y. Resignation of General Washington, Dec. 23, 1783 : Trumbull. Ordered 1817, cost 88,000. The painting on the 1. of tlie ]Sr. door represents Wasliington returning liis com- mi.' officers or persons having access to that Library. Tlie sum of $5,000, and an annual sum of $1,000, for a pe- riod of five years, was appropriated, to be expended in law books, the purchases to be made by the Librarian of Con- gress, under the direction of the Chief Justice of the United SUPREME COURT OF THE UNITED STATES. 87 States. Tliese appropriations have since varied in amounts, at present avcra.i^ins^ $2,000 each year. At that time there were ahout 2,000 law hooks in tlie Library of Coni^ress, of which 639 were of the JetVerson library. Under a resolution of Cono-ress, the law library of James L. Petigrn, of S. C, was purchased in 1867 for $5,000. Tlie law branch of the Library of the United States is now the largest and most valuable law collection in the United States. North Wing. — Leaving the Eotunda by the IS", door, the passage leads into a small elliptical vestibule, in imitation of a Greek temple, containinga peristyle, supported on an arched substruction in the basenient. The capitals of the pillars are ornamented with the leaf and flower of the tobacco plant. A dim light is admitted through the cupola. The door imme- diately on the 1. entering this space leads to the electrician's apartments and the top of the Dome. On the 1. of the nar- row passage is the apparatus which operates the A\ires con- necting the batteries and gas jets. Across this vestibule is a second vestibule, whicli leads into the Supreme Court room on the E. Opposite is a prostyle of Potomac marble. The door on this side opens into tlie offices of the Marshal and Clerk of the Supreme Court. Supreme Court of the United States. — {Open to visitors every day^ except Sunday.) The apartment occupied by this tribu- nal, formerly the Senate Cliamber, is semi-circular, with a; rather flat dome, enriched with square caissons in stucco, and circular apertures to admit light. The chamber is 75 ft . great- est length or diameter, 45 ft. greatest width, and 45 ft. high. On the"E. side, a screen of Grecian Ionic columns of breccia., or variegated Potomac marble, with capitals of white Italian marble, modeled after those of the Temple of Minerva, pol- ished, extends along the back of the range of seats of the Justices. These columns, with tlie entablature, support a gallery. The seats of the Justices are raised several feet above the floor, and are ranged behind a low screen, which answers the purpose of desks. The Chief Justice occupies the centre seat. The oflicers of the court have desks at either end and at the foot of the Justices' platform. The floor is beautifully carpeted, and tables and chairs are placed within the bar for the accommodation of those having cases before the court. Outside the rail are seats for visitors. Against the ^\. wall are a number of consoles, supporting busts of the departed Chief Justices: Jolni Jay, by Frazee, 1831, $400; John Eutledge, 1857, SUPREME COURT OF THE UNITED STATES. ; Oliver Ellsworth, by Auger, 1834, 8400 ; John Mar- shall, 1836, $500. The times for holding the sessions of the Supreme Court have been subjected to frequent changes by statute since 1789. Under the act of January, 1873, the annual session com- mences on the second Monday of October in each year. The adjournment usually takes place in May following. Daily sessions from 12 noon to 4 p. m. The Justices, wearing their judicial robes, enter from the ]^. door of the chamber, and are formally announced by the Marshal or deputy. The peo- ple in the room rise and remain standing till the Justices are seated. The opening of the court is tlien proclaimed by a proper officer. When the court-room was occupied by the Senate the President's chair stood in a niche in the screen of columns, and was raised on a platform. In front and lower were the desks of the Secretary and Chief Clerk. The entablature of the screen supported a gallery, in front of which was another, following tlie circle of the room, and supported by iron col- umns, with bronzed caps, surmounted by a gilt iron balus- trade. Against the wall over the E. gallery was a fine painting of Washington, b.y Charles Wilson Peale, richly framed and draped. The chamber was chiefly lighted from rlie E., and tlie President's chair, standing on the line of the diameter of the circle, formed tlie centre of the radiat- ing aisles, between which, in concentric curves, were ar- ranged the Senator's desks. There were accommodations for 64 Senators. In the rear a railing enclosed the bar of the Senate. Outside were sofas for privileged visitors. The offices of the Senate occupied the rooms in the immediate vicinity of the chamber. Originally there was an upper gallery on the E. side, su])- ported by an attic colonnade, but this was removed in 1828 to admit more light. It was then that the semi-circular gal- lery was introduced. The approaches to the chamber and galleries were exceedingly dark and gloomj^ At night a gas chandelier diffused light. On the W. side of the building, across the main vestibule, were the offices of the Secretary of the Senate, now occupied by the officers of the court. The two rooms on rhe N. side were assigned to the President and Vice President — now the robing rooms. Latrobe, the architect, proposed to have one of the galle- ries supported upon emblematical figures, representing the thirteen original States. The models, by Franzoni, "were completed in Italy and brought over, but no fiuther use was made of them, Congress fiiiling to appropriate the funds necessary to the execution of the design. THE UNITED STATES COURT OF CLAIMS. 89 111 the plan of the city, the reservation between D and G sts. N. and 4th and 5th sts. W. was set apart for the erection of a building for the uses of the judicial branch of the Govern- ment. Nothing, however, was done. In Feb., 1801, the Supreme Court of the United States was assigned to and assembled in the basement on the E. side, immediately be- neath the present room, and now the Law Library. The court was assigned to its present accommodations in Dec, 1860, upon the occupation of the new chamber provided for the Senate. It is proposed to erect a building for the inde- pendent use of the judiciary, to include the Supreme and other courts of tlie United States in the District of Colum- bia. The site under consideration is the square recentlj'' added to the E. Park of the Capitol Grounds on the S., to correspond with the proposed building for the occupation of the Library of the United States in tlie same square on the N. These two buildings completed, standing respectively SE. and N'E., and clear of the E. fapadeof the Capitol, would add greatly to the magnificence of the main central structure. Chief Justices.— 17SQ, John Jay, N. Y. ; 1795, John Kut- ledge, S. C, rejected; 1700, William Gushing, Mass., de- clined; 1796, Oliver Ellswortli, Conn.; 1800, John Jay, N. Y. ; 1801, John Marsliall, Va. ; 1836, Roger B. Taney, Md. ; 1864, Salmon P. Chase, Ohio; 1874,MorrisonR.Waite, Ohio. Associate Justices^ 1874. ^Nathan Clifford, Me., 1858; Noali H. Swavne, Ohio, 1802 ; Samuel F. Miller, lo., 1862 ; David Davis, til., 1862; Stoplien Field, Cal., 1863; William Strong. Penn., 1870; Joseph P. Bradley, N". J., 1870; Ward Hunt; N^. Y., 1873. The judicial jmioer of the United States, by the third ar- ticle of the Constitution, is vested in one supreme court and in such inferior courts as Congress may from time to time ordain and establish. The judges of both the supreme and inferior courts hold their offices during good behavior, and receive for their services compensation whicli cannot be diminished during their continuance in office. The Chief Justice and Associates of the Supreme Court of the United States are appointed by tiie President, by and with the ad- vice of the Senate. The Constitution defines the judicial power of the court, which is confined to civil cases national in their character : for instance, between citizens of different States, or in which aliens or representatives of foreign gov- ernments are interested, questions under treaties, and appel- late and revisory jurisdiction in certain cases. The United States Oourt of Claims occupies a suit of rooms in the basement of the W. projection of the central building. 90 SENATE EXTENSION. reached by the 1. corridor jifter entorins; the main "\V. door of the Capitol. The court consists of a Chief Justice and four Associates. Its business is the verilication of claims against the U. S. and brought before Cono^-ess for adjustment. Chief Justice, Charles D. Drake, Mo., 1870. North or Senate Extension, — In order to preserve the con- tin uitj^ of description, after leaving the Supreme Court room, in the N". Wing, the visitor to the Capitol should proceed di- rectly to the Bronze Door of the E. vestibule of the iST. Exten- sion, which may be reached by pursuing- the main X. and S. corridor, and at its terminus turning to the r. and then to the 1., the last corridor ending in the vestibule. Just after leaving the vestibule of the Supreme Court the division between the original Capitol and the Extension will be observed, the first part reached being the connecting corridor. The Senate Bronze Door, by Crawford, consists of a simple post and lintel. The frame over the door is supported by enricli- ed brackets. The ornjuiienta- tion consists of scroll-work and acanthus, with the cotton-boll, maize, grapes, and entwining vines. The upper panel of each valve contains a star, surround- ed by a wreath of oak leaves, and acts as a ventilator. In the foot panel of each leaf are figures, typical of Peace and Waj*. The door is 14^ ft. high and 9r] ft. wide, with two leaves, weiiiiis 14,000 lbs., and was cast by James T. Ames, at Chicopee, Mass. The total cost was ^Q^- 000 for model and $50,495 for casting. It was put up in 1868. The remainder of the door is divided into 6 panels, in which, in alto relievo^ arc rep- resented events connected with SENATE BRONZE DooB. thc rcvolutiouary struggle, the establishment of the Government, and the foundation of the Capitol. The panels containing liistorical subjects, in chro- nological succession, begin at the top of the left valve of the door^ as follows : I. Battle of Bunker Hill and Death of Warren, June, 1775. \ / \ y / \ / \ VI I V II IV HI 0. .0 SENATE EXTENSION. 91 II. Battle of Monmouth, June, 1778, and Rebuke of General Lee, who meditated betraying the American Army. III. Battle of Yorktown, October, 1781. Hamilton's Capture of the Redoubt. IV. Welcome of Washington at Trenton, April, 1789, on his way to New York i to assume the office of President of the United States. This panel contains por- traits of the sculptor, his wife, and three children, and of Rogers, the sculptor of the Main Door. V. Inauguration of Washington, First President of the United States, in New 1 York, April jo, 1789. The principal figures in this panel are portraits, including John Adams, Vice President, on his right; Chancellor Livingstone administers the oath; Mr. Otis, Secretary of the Senate, presented the Bible. The other distinguished personages represented are Alexander Hamilton, Generals Knox and St. Clair, Roger j Sherman, and Baron Steuben. VI. Laying of the Corner-stone of the Capitol of the United States at Washing- ! ton, September 18, 179J. The prominent figures are likenesses. i The order to Mr. Crawford contemplated two door.s, one for i the E. Portico of each wing. The sculptor had proceeded no j further than to complete tlie drawing of his designs and the work of his models in clay, when he was overtaken by death. j The work, however, was completed bj'^ ^V. H. Rhiuehart, of I Maryland, an assistant in the studio of the sculptor at Rome. The fortunate exaction of a guaranty fi-om the European j founder, who seemed to doubt the ability of the nation to maintain its credit and to cope with the Rebellion, then i going on, led to the shipment of the models to the United i States in 1863. They were somewhat damaged in removal, " but were restored by Silas IMosman, of Massachusetts, under whose superintendence they were cast. The mechanical ex- ecution ol this work is considered in every respect equal to the gi-eat Door, and establishes the skill of American workmen in competition with those of Europe. Above the door, resting on a cap supported by massive brackets, are two reclining female figures, in American mar- ble, by Crawford, representing Justice and History. Both recline against a globe, the former supporting a volume bear- ! ing the words "Justice, Law, and Order," and has a pair of scales lying by her side. Tlie latter holds a scroll, inscribed "History, July, 1776." On either side of the door, in the beautiful marble wall, is a niche, ready to receive appropriate statues. From this portico the bronze door enters a vestibule., consist- ing of a colonnade of 16 fluted marble columns, with capitals of acanthus and tobacco leaves. The columns are disposed in ! couples, and equally divided on either side with corresponding pilasters. The ceiling is composed of massive blocks of higlily- polished marble, ranged so as to form panels, three of which I are provided with stained glass for the admission of light. The walls are scagliola imitation of Sienna marble, and are broken at suitable intervals into niches, with bases of Ten- nessee maxble. The floor is tessellated in white and blue 92 SENATE EXTENSION. marble. The first door on the 1., after entering, leads into the Official BepoHers' Room. On the r. is the Senate Post Office. At the W. end is a smaller vestibule, leading to the floor of the Senate Chamber. The doors are of bird's-eye maple, with bronze enrichments, and set in bronze frames. The Senate Chamber will be described from the galleries. The public are permitted on the floor of the Chamber when the Senate is not in session. The regular hour of meeting of the Senate during the session is 12 noon every day ex- cept Sunday, and adjourns on its own motion : holiday and night sessions are ordered by the Senate. During the ses- sion the following persons onlj^ are by law entitled to the privileges of the floor of the Senate : Ofiicers of the Senate; Members of the House of Kepresentatives and then- clerks; President of the U. S. and private secretary ; heads of de- partments; Ministers of the U. S. and Foreign Ministers; ex-Presidents and ex-Vice Presidents of the U. S. ; ex-Sen- ators and Senators elect ; Judges of the Supreme Court of the U. S. ; Governors of States and Territories ; General of the Army; Admiral of the Navy; Members of N^ational Legislatures of foreign countries ; private secretaries of Sen- ators, appointed in writing ; and Librarian of Congress. The W. door in the S. wall of the main vestibule leads to the E. Staircase^ ascending to the corridors and committee rooms of the second floor and to the ladies' galleries and retiring rooms. This magnificent staircase is made of highly-polished Tennessee marble. The columns have bronze capitals. The ascent from the main floor is by a broad flight of IG steps, which divide at tlie first landing, the rest of the ascent being by a double flight of 18 steps. Overhead is a stained-glass skylight set in an iron frame, surrounded by iron casing of trellis work, resting on a heavy cornice of marble. At the foot of the steps, in a niche, stands the semi-heroic statue of Franklin, the phi- losopher, in marble : by Hiram Powers. 18G2, $10,000. Against the E. M^all, over the first landing, is the painting of Peri-y's Victorj^ over the British on Lake Erie : by Powell, of Ohio. 1873, cost $25,000. The painting represents tlie Com- modore transferring his flag from the Lawrence, which liad been disabled, to another ship. A new movement compelled the enemy to surrender. Tlie. best view of this painting is from the balusti-ade at the top of the staircase. A double stairway, \Alnch unites at the first landing below, leads be- neath the arched support and massive blocking of the upper staircase to the basement. A beautiful stained-glass window, at the head of the second descent, admits light. At the foot of these steps is the Senate Refectory. The best general view SENATE EXTENSION. 93 of the E. staircase may be had from the landing of the steps leading to the basement. The W. door in the ^. wall of the vestibule opens into the Senate Reception Boom, a brilliant salon about 60 ft. long, with a vaulted ceiling divided into two arches, that on tlie N. being groined, and is divided into four sections, in which are allegorical figures in fresco: N., Liberty; S., Plenty; "VV., War; E., Peace. The S. half of the ceiling consists of a cir- cular arch, broken by deep caissons, arranged in concentric circles. The fresco in the cen|;re represents youthful figures in a vignette of clouds. Outside the circle are allegorical fig- ures in'fresco : NE., Prudence; SE., Justice; SW., Temper- ance ; NW., Strength. All these frescoes were executed by Brumidi, in 1856. The ceiling is heavily gilded throughout, and from it is suspended a fine chandelier. The walls are finished in tint, and enriched with stucco and gilt. They are divided into five panels, with medallion centres for portraits of illustrious citizens. Each medallion is surrounded by wreaths, and is surmounted by an eagle. The base of the walls is scagliola, in imitation of Potomac and Tennessee marbles. Under the arch in the S. wall is a well-executed centre-piece in oil, by Brumidi, representing Washington in consultation with Jeflerson, his Secretary of State, and Ham- ilton, Secretary of the Treasmy. On either side is a medal- lion yet unfilled. In the N. wall of this magnificent apart- ment, between the windows, is a mirror. Tlie floor is of encaustic tiles, finely laid, and with a beautifully-wrouglit star as a centre-piece. The room is furnished in rosewood, with damask and lace cm-tains. In winter the floor is richly carpeted. On the E. a door opens into the Senate Post Office, ele- gantly fitted with cases and other conveniences for the recep- tion and distribution of the Senate mails. This room was originally intended for the Library of the Senate, and was decorated with that view. The vaulted ceiling is embellished with frescoes by Brumidi, tlie principal pieces representing History, Geography, Physics, and the Telegraph. Three allegorical figures support a tasteful centre-piece, from which drops a chandelier. The walls are finished in oil and gilt. Adjoining, on the N"., is the Room of the Sergeant-at-Arms oj the Senate. On the walls under the arches are four allegorical designs in basso relievo : that on the E. representing Dissolu- tion or Secession, illustrated in the breaking of the fasces or bundle of rods, while on the one side lies cotton, and on the other corn, the rival products of the opposing sections of the country. On the S. is the same figure as AVar, with the en- gines of strife. On the W. the bundle of rods are again 94 SENATE EXTENSION. nnited, with the motto E Plurihus Uaum and ea.f^le. On the N. the implements of war are bcinurpose of light and ventilation. The dome is similar to tliat of the Panl;heon at Eome. On the S. side of the hall, forming the loggia, are 8 columns and 2 autre of the sam(^ style as the peristyle. Over the entablature of this colonnade springs a beautiful 72 ft. cliord. On the blocking of the cornice beneath is a figure of Liberty^ in plaster, by Gaucici, 1829, originally intended for execution in marble. The figure, seen from the gallaries in front, produces a strik- mg eftect, and is in every respect worthy of the pupil of the great Canova. On the r. is the frustum of a column, around which a serpent, the emblem of wisdom, is entwining itself, and at the feet of the figure is an American eagle. In the frieze of the entablatm*e, under this figure, is sculptured an eagle in stone, with outspread wings, tlie work of Valaperti, and of very superior merit. The gallery over tlie loggia was set apart for the ladies, having cushioned seats for the accom- modation of 200 persons : the general gallery would seat 500. Over the N. cloor stands an exquisitely designed and beauti- fully executed clock in marble, by Chas. Franzoni, 1830. His- tory, her drapery floating in the air, is represented as standing in the winged car of Time and recording passing events. The car is placed on a globe, on which, in basso relievo^ are cut the signs of the zodiac. The hours are marked on the face of the wheel of the car. In July, 1864, a paragi-aph in an appropriation bill passed by Congress authorized the President of the United States to invite each and all the States to furnish statues, in marble or bronze, not exceeding two in number for each State, of deceased persons who have been citizens thereof and illustri- ous for their historic renown, or for distinguished civic or mili- tary service, as the States determine, worthy of this national commemoration, when so furnished to be i)laced in the old Hall of the House of Representatives, in the Capitol of the United States, which is set apart for a National Statuary Hall. NATIONAL STATUARY HALL. 107 It is to be regretted that so many years have ah-eady been permitted to pass with so small a recognition of the grandeur of this projected i^ational Gallery. The estate contributions in the order received are — Rhode Island — ]Major General Nathaniel Greene, a dis- tinguished officer of the Revolution. Marble, by H. K. Brown, Boger Williams, founder of Rhode Island and promoter of civil and religious liberty in America. Marble, by Simmons. Connecticut — Jonathan Trumbull, an eminent patriot of the Revolution. From him the term "Brother Jonathan," as applied to the United States, originated. Marble, by Ives. Roger Sherman, one of the connnittee to draft the Declara- tion of Independence and signer of the same, member of the Constitutional Convention, and a Senator of the United States. Marble, by Ives, 1870. IS^EW York — George Clinton, a statesman and officer of the Revolution, Governor of New York, Vice President of the United States 1805-1813. Bronze, by H. K. Brown, 1873. Edward Livingston, Secretary of State 1831-1833. Now being executed in Italy. Marble, by Palmer. The following contributions have been ordered : New Jersey— it YZ Stockton, a signer of the Declara- tion of Independence, a Senator of the United States. Mar- ble, by H. K. Brown. Nearly ready. Major General Philip Kearney, an officer of the Army of the United States. Killed in the rebellion of 1861-'65. Bronze, by H. K. Brown. Nearly ready. In addition to the State contributions, the Hall also con- contains a jjlaster coioy of the statue of George Washington at Richmond, by Iloudon, 1788, representing the Father of his Country in civil attire, with a staff in his hand, his cloak and sword resting on a bundle of rods, and with a rude plow in the rear. The original was ordered by the General Assembly of Va. A bust of Abraham Lincoln, marble, by Mrs. Ames, 1868, $2,000, mounted on a beautiful pedestal of Aberdeen t^ranite, presented to the Fortieth Congress; a bust of T, Kosciusko, the Pole, in marble, by Saunders, 1857, $500; bust of Thomas Crauford, sculptor; the supei-b statue of Alexander Hamilton, in marble, by Horatio Stone, 1868, $10,000; statue of Abraham Lincoln, by Miss Ream, 1866, $15,000; and 11 Penseroso, a female figure, executed in mar- ble, by Mozier, $2,000. The generar collection of statuary will doubtless be enlarged from time to time. The beginnhig of a collection of paintings has also been made. In the panel at the E. end of the prostyle is Thomas Moran's celebrated painting of the Grand Canon of the Yellowstone, purchased by Congress in 1872 for $10,000. In 108 HOUSE EXTENSION. the opposite panel is a life-size portrait of Henry Clay, by John Xeagle, 1843, $500, and poi-traits of Charles Carroll of Carrollton, by Chester Hardinq; ; one of Gunninfj Bedford^ a member of the Constitutional Convention from Delaware, presented; one of Joshua R. Giddings^ by Miss Ransom, $1,000; and a mosaic of Abraham Lincoln^ by Salviati, of Venice, a manufacturer. It is proposed also to fit up this Hall with upper and lower galleries, with panels and niches, the former to be occupied by portraits of Speakers of the House of Representatives. When the Hall was occupied by the House, the Speaker's chair stood on the S. side, upon an open rostrum about four feet above the floor, enclosed by a bronze balustrade. Rich crimson curtains fell in elegant folds from the capitals of the columns, and were separated so as to form luxurious dra- peries as a background to the chair and rostrum. Below and in front of the' Speaker's rostrum stood the Clerk's desk, raised on a variegated socle. Upon this stood a rich mahog- any table, with damask silk curtains. This platform was reached by steps on either side. Between the columns were sofas and accommodations for twenty reporters. The members' desks, of mahogan}^ with arm chairs, were arranged in concentric circles, the aisles forming radii from the centre. The Hall was ari-anged for 232 members. In the rear of the outer row of desks ^^';)s a bronzed iron railing with curtains, constituting the bar of the House. Outside of this was the lobbj\ I'he panels on either side of the ladies' gal- lery contained full-length portraits of Washington by Van- derlyn, and Lafayette by Aiy Scheffer, a present from the distinguished Frenclnuan upon his last visit to the United States. These are now in the House of Representatives. Under these were copies of the Declaration of Independence, in frames emblematically ornamented. At night the Hall was lighted by "solar gas" from a chandelier at the apex of the dome. This Hall was occupied by Congress for 32 years. During the first days of the Rebellion, 1861-'65, troops were quartered in it. In 18G2 it was used as a hospital for the sick and wounded of the army; and in 18G4, by act of Congress, was set apart for its present appropriate purpose. South or " House " Extension. — The S. door of the National Statuary Hall opens into a broad corridor, which constitutes the beginning of the S. Extension of the Capitol, devoted en- tirelj^ to the uses of the House of Representati^'es, the lower branch of the Congress of the United States. This portion of the building corresponds, in its general features, with the Senate Extension, the larger size of the Hall of the Repre- HOUSE EXTENSION. 109 sentatives constituting the only difference. The E. staircase^ the same as the Senate, leads to the galleries for diplomatic representatives and families of members of Congress. At the foot, is the Statue of Jefferson, by Powers, 1863, $10,000, ex- ecuted in Italy, very superior. Opposite, over the first land- ing, is an equestrian portrait of General Winfeld Scott, by Troye, (not owned by the Government,) painted- for the Vir- ginia legislature, the rebellion breaking out before it was de- livered. The main entrance into the vestibule beyond will be fitted with a bronze door, the designs of which were prepared by Crawford, sculptor of the Senate door, previous to his death, and executed, in model, by Rhinehart, $9,000, and are now stored in the building. The door will represent scenes in the life of Washington. The vestibule consists of 8 fluted columns in couples, with capitals enriched with acanthus, to- bacco, and corn leaves. In the walls are niches. On the 1. of the S. corridor is the Members'' RetiHng Room, now used by the Official Reporters. The lobby beyond and the floor of the Hall ai-e open to the public during a recess or adjournment. At other times a member of the House can pass visitors into the former. The rules of the House designate those privi- leged to tlie floor. The lobby has an iron-paneled ceiling, decorated in oil, after the style of the 15th century. On the r. the doors open into the Hall, and on the 1. is the Sergeaivt- at- Arms'' Room, in which the Mace is kept when the House of Representatives is not in session. The Speaker'' s Room, next on tiie 1., is entirely finished in iron, enriched with gilt. The furniture and fittings are extpjmely fine. On the walls are . engravings or photographs of the Speakers. On the 1. of the W. corridor are the Offices of the House. On the same cor- ridor is the W. staircase, the same as on the E. At the foot is the head of Bee-she-kee, The Buflalo, a Chippewa warrior from the sources of the Mississippi, from nature by F. Vin- centi, 1854 ; copied in bronze by Joseph Lassalle, 1858. Op- posite, over the first landing, is Westward Ho, a chromo-silica, by Emanuel Leutze, 1862, 820,000. The best view is from the balustrade at the top of the staircase. The painting rep- resents an emigrant train crossing the Rocky Mountains. The figures are excellent, and the face of nature in those high al- titudes is faithfully portrayed. A guide to tiiese wild regions leads the way. The faces of the travel-worn emigrants beam with hope. In the distant valley in the rear is an emigrant camp. The snow-clad peaks and rugged rocks all appear in their wild sublimity. Above are the words "Westward the Course of Empire takes it waj^," and below is the "Golden Gate," the entrance to the harbor of San Francisco. The entu-e picture is surrounded by an appropriate border. In 110 HALL OF THE HOUS"R. MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE. Ill REPRESENTATIVES. A. R. Cotton J. W. Begole W. H. Lamport J. G. Sc)iumaker A. H. Willie M. Sayler W. P. McLe»n T. Swaim H. W. Parker 8. 8. Cox, R. M. Speer A. H. Stephens H. B. Smith J. Cobura I. W. Soudder J. B. Storm, J. B. Clarke, Jr. A. H. Buckner R. B. Vance A. White DeW. C. Giddingi W. S. Herndon J. D. C. Atkins 6. M. Adams J. Hancock J. M. Pendleton J. W. KiUinger D. A. Nunn C.St John C. L. Cobb H. Maynard L. B. (junekel A. H. ;ht »8 J. A. HubbeU Pa Wis Mass N.Y. X. Y. 0. N.Y. Pa Pa N.Y. N.Y, Pa 0. N.J. Ind Ga Ga Ga Mo Mo ^i N.J. 0. N.Y. Mo Iowa Mass Conn Ala Me. Md Mich T. S. Ashe J. H. Bloss T. T. Crittenden J. Y. Brown. W. E. Niblack R. M. Knapp J. T. Harris J. C. Robinson E. Perry Hiester Clymer C. N. Lamison F. Hereford E. Wells H. L. Pierce C. Hays J. H. I'latt, Jr J. R. Hawley J. M, Ha^ng G. Willara H. W. Barry J. H. Blount E. D. Standeford C. W. Milliken C. W. Kendall S. S. Marshall R. Q. Mills J. A. Magee I'a ! P. M. B. Young Ga R. A. Hatcher Mo ; E.Crossland Ky | W.C.Whitthome Tennl J.O.Whitehouse N. Y. | W. R. Morrison 111 ! F. Moray La ! C. B. Farwell W. H. Stone C. N. Potter H. J. Jewett 0. W. V. »Io Mass W. Va Mich Miss 115 J. A. Smith 116 W. Townsend 117 L. K. Bass 118 A. F. Pike 119 I. R. Sherwood 120 W. H. Barnum 121 A. Hodges V. Pa N.Y. M. H. 0. Corrn Ark. Kyi Kyi Ncvl 111 Tex III Mo N. Y. j 0.1 123 W. S. Moore Pa 124 M. K. Armstrong Dak 125 J. J. DayiB W. V» 126 127 N. P. Chipman rJ8 W.E. Arthur 129 J. H. Caldwell lai 8. J. Randall 131 J. W. Nesmith 132 H. B. Banning 133 S. K. Wolfe i:t4 J. D. Young 135 J. K. Luttrell 136 J. M. Bright 137 L. Todd 138 E. Hunton 139 A. M. Davis 140 R. T. Bowen 141 A. R. Howe 142 J. Bailey 143 L. A. Sheldon 144 F. G. Bromberg 145 R. C. McCormiok Ar.T. 146 W. R. Steele Wtj.T. 147 0. B. McFadden Wa.T. 148 G Q. Cannan U. T. 14y M.Ma^innis. M. T. 1611 F, Clark. N. Y. 161 J. B. Sener Va D. C. Ky Ala Pa Ore Tenn I'a V« Va V« Miss Id.T. U Ala West Side. 39 G. W 40 J. M. Wilson 41 G. W. McCrary 42 H. 1« Dawes 43 B. T. Eames 44 G. F. Hoar 45 H. S. Bundy, 46 J. Niles 47 P. Sawyer 48 C. G. Williams 49 E. 0. Stwiard 50 H. 0. Pratt 51 D. Wilber 52 J. H. Burlei-h b.i W. E. Lansing 54 W. J, Albert 55 H. L. Richmond .56 J. B. Packer 57 J. T. Aver-ll 58 C. W. Willard 59 B W. Harris CO a. H. Hathom 61 W. A. Smith 62 C L. Mcrriam 63 C. Foster 64 W. Williams 65 M. H. Dunnell 66 H. B. Strait, 67 H E. Havens 68 J. A. Kasson Iowa 69 I. Clements 111 70 W. G. Donnan Iowa 71 J. W. McDill Iowa 72 W. W. Phelps N. J. 73 C. D. MacDougall N. Y. 74 H. F. Page Cal 75 S. A. Dobbins N. J. 76 A. Clark, Jr. N. J. Ind Iowa Mass R. I. Mass' 0.! Miss Wig Wis N. Y. Md Pa Pa Minn Vt Mass N. Y. N. C. N.Y. 0. Ind' Minni Minn Mo' W. Loughridge W. Crutohfield D. P. Lowe H. B. Sayler J.D. I^trawbridge J. D. Ward W. D. Kelley J. M. Rusk M. C. Hunter E. H. Roberta L. Myers H. C. Burchard S. A. Hurlburt J. S. Martin J. B. Hawley G. C. McKee A. J. Rangier R. H. Whiteley, J. R. Lynch J. S Smart J. H. Rainey J. T. Walls B. F. Butler L. Lowndes, Jr S. B. Elking S. 0. Houghton J. B. Chaffee J. W. Robinson B. Lewis J.M.Thornburgh H. J. Scu.lder C. O'Neill J. C. Freeman J. B. Rice F. Corwin W. L. Sessions W. A. Phillips W. A. Wheeler Iowa 115 Tenn , 116 Kan 1 117 Ind 118 134 135 136 Mass 1137 Mdll38 (U. E. Hale R. S. Hale J. A. GaJrfield R. C. I'arsons C. B. Darrall W. J. Hynes G. L. Smith R. H. ( ain J. P. C. Shanks W. J. Purman J. H. Sypher 8. C. Ind Fla A. S. ;Dill N. M. Cal C. T. Tenn Tenn N. Y. Pa J. Orr Iowa I. B. Hyde Mo J. Buflinton Mass T. J. Cason Ind L. Danford 0. A. W. Taylor Pa H. H. Harrison Tenn L. Crounse Neb W. H. H. Stowell Va J. M. S. Williams Moss J. T. Rapier Ala 0. D. Conger Mich G. Willard 1. I'remain G. G. lloskins T. C. Piatt J. G. Cannon W. B. Small J. A. Barber J. Packard R. B. Elliott W. Lawrence S. A. Cobb. J. S. Biery Mich N. Y. N.Y. N. Y. ID N. H. Wig Ind 8. C. E. MoJunkin P« 112 HALL OF REPRESENTATIVES. that on tlie N. is a portrait of Daniel Boone, and below the words — '■'■ The spirit grows with its allotted space,. The mind is narrowed in a narrow sphere." Opposite is a portrait of Capt. William Clarke, and beneath the words — '' No pent-up Utica contracts our powers, But the whole boundless continent is ours." Second Floor, — The visitor has now reached the second story, or gallery floor. The corridors on the AY., wliere he stands, and on the N. and E., are open to tlie public. That on the S. is devoted to the Press Telegy^ajyh Offices^ and Ee- poiier's Retiring Room in the W. half, and Ladies'' Retiring Room on the E. The latter is reached by the oST. and E. cor- ridors, the entrance being at the S. end of the latter, right- hand side. The House Document Library, containing about 60,000 vols., is on tlie N. corridor centre, N. side. Commit- tee rooms open from the outside upon the E. and W. corri- dors. The corridors are neatly but plainly finished, in stucco ornamentations, on tinted and plain background. Galleries. — The galleries entered from the W. doors are for ladies or gentlemen accompanied by ladies ; on the I^. for gentlemen; on E. families of members and diplomatic representatives and ladies; and on tlie S., in centre, mem- bers of the press and ladies on either side. The entrances to all these galleries, during the sessions of Congress, are guarded by doorkeepers, whose duty it is to seat tlie people, and to' see that proper decorum is observed. The Hall of the Kepresentatives— or the "House of Rep- resentatives," occupies the centre of the main floor of the S. Extension of the Capitol. The dimensions of this superb legislative hall, the finest in the world, are : length, 139 ft. ; width, 93 ft. ; height. 36 ft. The measurement of the floor is 115 ft. by 67 ft^ The form of the hall is a parallelogram, with a range of galleries on the four sides, and capable of seating about 2,500 persons. Beneath these gallei-ies, against the X., E., and W. walls, are cloak and retiring rooms. Under the galleries, over the back of the Speaker's chair, is the lol)by. Upon the jioor of the Hall are oak desks for 302 members and delegates, arranged in 7 concentric semi-circles, facing the S. The aisles diverge from the Speaker's "desk." The latter is raised about 3 ft. from the floor. In front are desks for the clerks of the House, and still in front desks for the official reporters. These are made of white marble, with a BASEMENT. 113 base of Tennessee, and are extremely beautiful. The clock marks the morning hour and limit of debate. E. of the Speaker is a circular pedestal of Vermont marble, upon which the mace or insignia of autlwrity is placed when the House is in session. When not in use, this may be seen in the room of the Sergeant-at-Arms in the SE. end of the lobby. It con- sists of a bundle of lictor's rods, bound together by silver liga- tures, and suimounted by a silver terrestial globe, crowned by the American eagle. Against the wall on the same side is a full-length portrait of Washington, by Vanderlyn, 1834, and in the corresponding position on the W. a similar portrait of the Marquis de Lafayette,by Ary SchefFer,1822, the celebrated Frencli artist. The latter was presented to Congress by La- fayette upon liis last visit to the United States. In the W. panel of the S. wall, under the gallery, is a fresco by Bru- midi, representing Washington at Yorktown receiving the officer sent by Cornwallis to ask a two days' cessation of hos- tilities, and in place of which two hoiu-s were granted. The fresco was necessarily finished in great haste. The location is also unsuitable. Over the N". door is a clock, surmounted by an eagle,' and supported on either side by figures of an In- dian a^d hunter. The ceiling of the Hall is of cast iron, paneled, and highly enriched with gilt moldings, and supported on a decorated cornice. There are 45 panels, filled with glass of appropriate design, 37 with stained centre pieces, representing the coats of arms of the States. There are two outer rows of panels, that nearest the walls consisting of open work with massive pendants in the centre. The iron frame-work of the panels is beautifully painted and gilded. Between the ceiling and the roof of the building is the illuminating loft, which also accommodates the truss-work connecting the frame of the ceiling with the roof, in order to secure increased strength. Inside the panels are gas jets, numbering about 1,500, lighted by electricity, and which, during night sessions, shed a mel- low light upon the Hall beneath. The Hall is heated and ventilated by the same means as devised for the Senate. Basement. — The basement, reached beneath the E. or W. staircase, is entirely without decoration. Tlie central cor- ridor, 25 ft. wide from iST. to S., consists of a fine colonnade of 14 fluted marble columns on each side, with capitals formed of acanthus, tobacco, and corn leaves. The walls are scagliola, imitating Sienna marble, the ceiling iron, and the floor of encaustic tiles. On the 1. is the *' House" Re- fectory. The central corridor on the left passes the bath rooms, and terminates in the E. vestibule. The narrow 8 114 HISTORY. passage on the 1. leads to the steps to the vaults and sub- basement, in which are the kitchens, heating and ventilat- ing apparatus, and coal vaults. These are materially the same as beneath the Senate. Committee Rooms. — The only committee room of special interest is that on Agriculture, in tiie basement, on tlie W. side of the W. corridor S.. and near the foot of tiie W. stair- case. This room was decorated by BrumMi in 1855, the first work of the kind done on the Capitol, and, with the excep- tion of the panels, is frescoed throughout. On the ceilings are representations of thej'oui^ seasojis, symbolized in Flora, Ceres, Bacchus, and Boreas. On the JE. wall is a fresco representing Cincinnatus called from the plow to be Dictator of Rome. On the opposite wall is a corresponding scene, rep- resenting Putnam called from the ploAv to join in the battles of the Revolution. On the S. is a medallion of Washington^ and beneath a Harvest in the Olden Time. Opposite Jefferson., and beneath, a Harvest Scene with Modern Improvements. This room may be seen by rapping at the door or making inquiry of one of the Capitol Police. The visitor has now seen the grander features of the Capi- tol. Those portions having no special interest hav^been purposely omitted, it being considered uiniecessary to burden him with useless and unimportant details. Capitol Police.— The Capitol is patrolled by a special police corps, organized in 1862, and under the exclusive control of Congress. The officers and privates are invariably courteous, and will take pleasure at all times in directing or escorting strangers to various parts of the building. Architects of the Capitol.— 1793, Dr. William Thornton, of Penn., an amateur, designer of the Capitol; 1793, Stephen Hallct, France; 1794, James Hoban, S. C; 1795, George HadHeld, England; 1796, James Hoban, S. C. ; 1797, George Hadfield, England ; 1803, R. II. Latrobe, Md. ; 1817, Charles Bulfinch, Mass. ; 1851, Thomas U. Walter, I^enn. ; 1865, Ed- ward Clark, Penn. History. — The site of the Capitol., if not chosen, was ap- proved by Washington, in the original plans of the city, sub- mitted to him by L'Enfant, and in the summer of 1791 was located bj' the commissioners. On this occasion Mr. Elllcott drew the meridian and the E. and W. lines, at the intersection of which the Capitol was to stand. This having been accom- plished, in March, 1792, the commissioners prepared adver- tisements, which were published in the principal towns and HISTORY. 115 cities of the United States, ofFerins^ a premiiira of $500, or a medal, for a plan of a President's House and Capitol. In this matter Jefterson took an active interest. During his resi- dence in Europe he had collected drawings of the fronts of celebrated public buildings. These were now produced for examination. He suggested, in the present instance, that the style of architecture of the Capitol should be taken from some model of antiquity, and that the President's House should be modern. In response to the advertisements, a number of plans were submitted, but in the selection of one for the Capitol there was a variety of opinions. A plan by Dr. Wm. Thornton, of Penn., but materially al- tered and improved by others, was approved by Washington and submitted to Stephen Hallet, a French architect, who was intrusted with its execution. On Sept. 18, 1793, the corner- stone of the edifice, SE. corner, was laid by Brother George Washington, assisted by the Worshipful Masters and Free Masons of the surrounding cities, the military, and a large number of people. The silver plate deposited in the cavity of the stone bore the following inscription : " This southeast corner-stone of the Capitol of the United States of Anierica, in the City of Washington, was laid on the i8th day of September, 179J, in the thir- teenth year of American Independence, in the first year of the second term of the Presidency of George Washington, whose virtues in the civil administration of his country have been as conspicuous and beneficial, as his military valor and prudence have been useful in establishing her liberties, and in the year of Masonry, S79J, by the President of the United States, in concert with the Grand Lodge of Maryland, "" several Lodges under its jurisdiction, and Lodge No. 2i from Alexandria, Virginia. "Thomas Johnson, David Stewart, and Daniel Carroll, Commissioners; Joseph Clarke, R. W. G. M. P. T. ; James Hoban and Stephen Hallate, Architects; Collin Williamson, M. Mason." After ascending from the cavazion, the Grand Master, P. T., Joseph Clarke^ delivered an oration, during which, at inter- vals, volleys were fired by the artillery. The ceremony closed in prayer. Masonic chanting honors, and a national salute of 15 guns. The President wore the apron and full regalia of a Mason. The gavel used on the occasion was of ivory, and is still pre- served as a treasured relic by Lod;.(e No. 9 of Georgetown. After the dedicatory ceremonies the entire assemblage took part in a barbecue arranged for tlie occasion in the E. Park. The N". Wing was ready for occupation in 1800. In the completed wing the Senate on the W. side. House of Repre- sentatives on E., and Supreme Court in the basement, first held their sessions. In 1801 the House occupied a temporary structure called the ''Oven," erected on the site of t!ie pres- ent S. Extension. In 1805 it returned to its first apartment in the N. Wing. In 1803 President Jefferson appointed II. H. 116 HISTORY. Latrobe Architect of the Capitol. This gentleman made rad- ical changes in the elevation and ground-plan of the building, raising the floor from the ground story to the principal order over the casement. The S. Wing was in readiness for the occupation of Congress in 1811. The centi-al portions were still unfinished. An unsightly wooden passage connected the two wings. During the war of 1812 worlv on the build- ing was suspended. In 1814 tlie interior of both wings was destroyed bj^ the British, after which Congress, on Sept, 19, 1814, met temporarily in the structure known as Blodgett's Hotel, situated on the E-st. front of the squarc now occupied by the General Post Office. Tiie session of Congress com- mencing Dec. 18, 1815, assembled in a building on tlie SE. corner of A and 1st sts. NE., erected by tlie citizens of" Washington for the pm-pose, and was occupied till the res- toration of the S. Wing of the original Capitol. In 1815, after an obstinate discussion, for a time threatening the most serious consequences to the harmony of tlie Union, Congress determined to restore the Capitol. The work of res- toration was commenced by ]Mr. Latrobe, who resigned in 1817. President Monroe appointed Charles Bulfinch, of Bos- ton, as his successor. That architect commenced the central portions of the building, including the Rotunda and Library, in 1818, which were completed in 1827. In 1818 a temporary building was erected near the Capitol for the use of commit- tees of Congi-ess. The plans of Latrobe, with a few slight modifications, were carried out, and the enth-e structure, with terraces and grounds, was completed in 13 years, at a cost, in- cluding alterations, repairs, &c., and improvement of grounds to 1851, when the Extensions were added, of $2,690,459 21. In Sept., 1850, Congress passed an act authorizing the extension of the Capitol. Thomas U. Walter, the architect of Girard College, at Philadelphia, in June, 1851, submitted a plan of extension to President Fillmore. This was accepted, and Mr. Walter was designated to carry it into execution . The corner- stone of the S. extension was laid on July 4, 1851. The fol- lowing is a copy of the record deposited beneath the corner- stone : "On the morning of the first day of the seventy-sixth year of the Independence of the United States of America, in the City of Washington, being the 4th day of July, 1851, this stone, designed as the corner-stone of the Extension of the Capitol, according to a plan approved by the President, in pursuance of an act of Congress, was laid by MILLARD FILLMORE, President of the United States, ssisted by the Grand Master of the Masonic Lodges, in the presence of many members of Congress j of officers of the Executive and Judiciary departments. National, State, and District; of officers of the Army and Navy ; the corporate au- thorities of this and neighboring cities ; many associations, civil and military and HISTORY. 117 Masonic; officers of the Smithsonian Institution and National Institute; professori of colleges and teachers of schools of the District of Columbia, with their students and pupils, and a vast concourse of people from places near and remote, including a few surviving gentlemen who witnessed the laying of the corner-stone of the Capitol by President Washington, on the eighteenth day of September, seventeen hundred and ninety-three. " If, therefore, it shall be hereafter the will of God that this structure shall fall from its base, that its foundation be up-turned, and this deposit brought to the eye of men, be it known that, on this day, the Union of the United States of America stands firm ; that their Constitution still exists unimpaired, and with all its original usefulness and glory, growing every day stronger and stronger in the affections of the great body of the American people, and attracting more and more the admira- tion of the world. And all here assembled, whether belonging to public life or to private life, with hearts devoutly thankful to Almighty God for the preservation of the liberty and happiness of the country, unite in sincere and fervent prayers that this deposit, and the walls and arches, the domes and towers, the columns and en- tablatures, now to be erected over it, may endure forever ! " God save the United States of America ! Daniel Webster, '■^Secritary of Stat* of the Unitid Statist Daniel Webster, the orator of the day, concluded the cere- monies in an eloquent address. In 1855 Congress authorized the removal of the Dome over the centre of the Capitol, and the construction of a new one of iron, according to tiie plans of Mr. Walter. The first Dome was built of wood. In the fire of 1851, which consumed the interior of the Library of the United States, this Dome was in imminent danger. Tliough it escaped destruction, the lesson suggested its removal, whicli was done in 1856. In its place the erection of tlie present Dome of iron, finished in 1865, was undertaken. The inner shell of the first Dome was ornamented with panels or caissons, and modeled after tliat of the Pantlieon of Agrippa at Kome. It was smaller in size, the Dome of the Capitol being 96 ft. in heiglit and diameter* and 122 J ft. to the skylight. "The Dome of the Pantheon was 142 ft. in diameter, which was about the same as the height, one half being the height of the Dome and the circular open- ing for light 23 ft. in diameter. The outer shell of the Dome of the Capitol was higher in proportion than its original in Rome. The circular aperture at the apex was also covered by a cupola, around which there was a balustrade, reached by a stairway between the inner and outer shells. The access, however, was inconvenient and dangerous. On one occasion a lady slipped and fell upon the sash, breaking the glass, but was prevented from precipitation to tlie pavement of the Ro- tunda below by the strength of the frame. The work on the Capitol was continued through the war of the rebellion, 1861-'65. On December 12, 1863, at noon, the statue of Freedom which surmounts the Dome was placed in position. The flag of the United States was unfurled from its crest, and was greeted by the sliouts of thousands of citi- zens and soldiers. A national salute of 35 guns was fired by 118 HISTORY OP CONGRESS. a field battery in the E. Park, and was responded to by the great guns of the chain of forts constituting the defenses of the threatened Capital of the Nation. The new Hall of the S. Extension was occupied by the House of Kepresentatives Dec. 16, 1857, and that of the N". by the Senate Jan. 4, 1859. The Capitol to date cost : main Building, $3,000,000; Dome, $1,000,000; Extensions N. and S., $8,000,000; misceUaneous, $1,000,000. HISTORY OF CONGRESS. The establishment of a General Union of tlie British Colo- nies in N. America was early suggested as necessary to the maintenance of English supremacy on the American conti- nent, as well as to secure safety at home. In 1643 a Confed- eracy of the Colonies of New England was formed, which answered admirably as a means of defense and offense in the affairs pertainhig to that particular section. \ On February 8, 1697, William Penn presented to the Board i i of Commissioners in London '"A brief e and plaine scheam * how the English colonies on the north parts of America, namely, Boston, Connecticut, Road Island, New Yorlv, New Jerseys, Penusilvania, Maryland, Virginia, and Carolina, may be made more usef ull to the crown and one another's peace and safety with an universal concurrence." This was the first suggestion of a complete union of all the colonies for purposes of external defense, or to act in matters exclusively intercolonial. It was sixty-nine years after Penn made his proposition to the Lords Commissioners that the First Amer- ican Congress^ on Oct. 7, 1765, met in New York, in opposi- tion to several measures of the British Parliament, chiefly the stamp act. The Fb-st Continental Congress, Peyton Randolph, of Va., President, met at Piiiladelphia in Sept., 1774, all the colonies except Georgia being represented. The British king and ministry were highly incensed at these "persons, styling themselves delegates of his majesty's colonies in America, having presumed, without his majesty's consent, to assemble together at Philadelphia." A circular was sent to all the colonial governors, and every eftbrt was made, by threat or intimidation, to frustrate the assembling of the proposed Congress of 1775. The royal disapprobation of the proceed- RATIFICATION OF CONSTITUTION. 119 ing had no effect whatever. The Congress met at the ap- ; pointed time and place, and Peyton Randolph, of Va., was again chosen President. Since this gathering the American Congress, Continental or General, as it was variously styled, has liiid an unbroken line of succession. Sessions of the Continental Congress. — Commenced 1774, Sept. 5, Philadelphia, Penn. ; 1775, May 10, Philadelphia, Penn. ; 1776, Dec. 20, Baltimore, Md. ; 1777, March 4, Phil- adelphia, Penn.; 1777, Sept. 27, Lancaster, Penn.; 1777, Sept. 30, York, Penn.; 1778, July 2, Philadelphia, Penn.; 1783, June 30, Princeton, N". J. ; 1783, Nov. 26, Annapolis, Md.; 1784, Nov. 1, Trenton, N. J.; 1785, Jan. 11, New York City, N. Y., until the adoption of the Constitution of the United States. Presidents of the Continental Congress. 1774-1788.— Pey- ton Randolph, Va., elected Sept. 5, 1774 ; Henry Middleton, S. C, Oct. 22, 1774; Peyton Randolph, Va., May 10, 1775; John Hancock, Mass., May 24, 1775; Henry Laurens, S. C, Nov. 1, 1777; John Jay, N. Y., Dec. 10, 1778; Samuel Huntingdon, Conn., Sept. 28, 1779; Thomas McKean, Del., July 10, 1781 ; John Hiinson, Md., Nov. 5, 1781 ; Elias Bou- dhiot, N. J., Nov. 4, 1782 ; Thomas Mifflin, Penn., Nov. 3, 1783 ; Richard Henry Lee, Va., Nov. 30, 1784 ; Nathaniel Gorham, Mass., June 6, 1786; Arthiu- St. Clah', Penn., Feb. 2, 1787 ; Cyrus Griffin, Va., Jan. 22, 1788. LTnder the Articles of Confederation^ executed at Phila- delphia July 9, 1778, Congress met annually on the first Monday in November, till the Constitution of the United States went into operation, in 1789. Eatification of the Constitution.— The Constitution of the United States of America was adopted September 17, 1787, pursuant to a resolution dated February 21, 1787, of the Con- gress assembled under the provisions of the Articles of Con- federation. The ratification, in convention, by the thirteen original States, was as follows: 1787, Dec. 7, Delaware; 1787, Dec. 12, Pennsylvania ; 1787, Dec. 18, New Jersey ; 1788, Jan. 2, Georgia; 1788, Jan. 9, Connecticut; 1788, Feb. 6, Massa- chusetts; 1788, April 28, Maryland; 1788, May 23, South Car- olina; 1788, June 21, New Hampshire; 1788, June 26, Vir- ginia; 1788, Jnlv26, New York; 1789, Nov. 21, North Carolina; 1790, May 29, Rhode Island. The first Congress under the Constitution couimenced March 4, 1789, held two sessions in New York City, and subsequent- ly met in Philadelphia, Dec. 6, 1790. For the next ten years the national capital found a resting place on the very spot 120 PRESIDENTS OF THE SENATE. where the Continental Congress of 1776 had given to the world that great instrument of American freedom the Declaration of Independence. The next step was to plant itself upon the broad waters of the Potomac. In June, 1800, the executive branch of the Government was transferred from Philadelphia to the Permanent Seat of Government,, and future Capital of the Republic establish- ed, by the act of 1700. The 36th Congress, 2d Session, the first which met in the City of Washington, assembled here on Nov. 17, 1800, the third Monday of Nov., but failed of a quorum of the Senate till Nov. 21, on which day the Presi- dent of the United States and House of Representatives were notified of the organization of that body. On the next day the President of the United States, John Adams, in person, delivered an appropriate address to the two Houses of Congress assembled in the Senate Chamber of the Capitol. The Constitution requires that ^''Congress shall assemble at least once in everj^ year, and such meeting shall be on the first Monday in December, unless they shall by law appoint a different day." Article I section 1 of the Constitution provides that all legislative powers therein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Representatives. The Senate is composed of two Senators from each State, chosen by the Legislature thereof for six years ; and each Senator has one vote. The Senate is divided equally into three classes, so that one thii-d may be chosen every second year, the senato- rial term of a class always beginning with a new Congress. The Senate has advisory as well as legislative powers. Pres- ent number 74. Presidents of the Senate. — {Vice Presidents of the United States.)— 1780, 1-4 Congress, John Adams, Mass. ; 1797, 5-6, Thomas Jefterson, Va. ; 1801, 7-8, Aaron Burr, N. Y. ; 1805, 9-12, George Clinton, N. Y. ; 1813, 13-14, Elbridge Gerry, Mass. ; 1817, 15-18, D. D. Tompkins, N. Y. ; 1825^ 19-22, J. C. Calhoun, S. C. ; 1833, 23-24, Martin Van Buren, N. Y. ; 1837, 25-26, R. M. Johnson, Kv. ; 1841, 27, John Tyler, Va. ; 1843, 28, vacant; 1845, 29-30, G. M. Dallas, Penn.; 1849, 31, Millard Fillmore, N. Y. ; 1851, 32, vacant; 1853, 33-34, W. R. King, 1 mo., Ala, ; 1853, 33-34, vacant; 1857, 35-36, John C. BreckiJiridge, Ky. ; 1861, 37-38, II. Hamlin, Me. ; 1865, .'.■9-40, A. Johnson, Tenn. ; 1867, 40, vacant; 1869, 41-42, Schuyler Colfax, Ind. ; 1873, 43, Henry Wilson, Mass. The House of Representatives is composed of members chosen every second year by the people of the several States, and are apportioned according to their respective population. president's house. 121 Repi-esentatioii, 292 members, 10 delegates, viz : Alabama, 8; Arkansas, 4; California, 4 ; Connecticut 4; Delaware,!; Florida, 2 ; Georgia, 9 ; Illinois, 19 ; Indiana, 13 ; Iowa, 9 ; Kansas, 3 ; Kentucky 10 ; Louisiana, 6 ; Maine, 5 ; Maryland, 6 ; IVlassacluisetts, 11 ; Michigan, 9 ; Minnesota, 3 ; Mississip- pi, 6; Missouri, 13; i^ebraska, 1; Nevada, 1 ; New Hamp- shire 3; New Jersey, 7; New York, 33; North Carolina, 8; Ohio, 20; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 27; Kliode Island, 2; South Carolina, 5; Tennessee, 10; Texas, 6; Vermont, 3; Virginia, 9 ; West Virginia, 3 ; Wisconsin, 8 ; and one dele- gate from each of the Territories of Arizona, Colorada, Dako- ta, District of Columbia, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Utah, Wasliington, and Wyoming. Delegates may propose mea- sures relating to their own Territory, but have no vote. Speakers of the House of Representatives. — 1789, 1st Con- gi'ess, F. A. Muhlenberg, Penn.; 1791, 2, Jonathan Trum- bull, Conn.; 1793, 3, F. A. Muhlenberg, Penn.; 1795, 4-5, Jonathan Daji;on, N. J. ; 1799, 6, Theodore Sedgwick, Mass. ; 1801, 7-9, Nathaniel Macon, N. C. ; 1807, 10-11, Joseph B. Varnum, Mass.; 1811, 12-13, Henry Clay, Ky. ; 1813, 13, Langdon Cheves, S. C. ; 1815, 14-16, Henry Clay, Ky. ; 1819, 16, John W. Taylor, N. Y. ; 1821, 17, Philip B. Barbour, Va. ; 1823, 18, Henry Clay, Ky. ; 1825, 19, John W. Taylor, N. Y.; 1827, 20-23, Andrew Stevenson, Va.; 1835, 24, John Bell., Tenn. ; 1837, 25-26, James K. Polk, Tenn. ; 1841, 27, R. M. T. Hunter, Va. ; 27, John White, Ky. ; 1843, 28, John W. Jones, Va. ; 1845, 29, J. W. Davis, Ind. ; 1847, 30, R. C. Winthrop, Mass. ; 1849, 31, Howell Cobb, Ga, ; 1851, 32-33, Linn Boyd, Ky. ; 1855, 34, N. P. Banks, Mass. ; 1857, 35 James L. Orr, S. C. ; 1859, 36, W. Pennington, N. J. ; 1861, 37, Galusha A. Grow. Penn. ; 1863, 38-40, Schuyler Colfax, Ind. ; 18G9, 41-43, J. G. Blaine, Me. PRESIDENT'S HOUSE. On the E. portion of the W. plateau of the city, 1 J m. from the Capitol, stands the President's House, so designated in the early official plans and documents relating to the city, but since styled tlie Executive Mansion, and popularly the ''■ Wliite House." The Pennsylvania-av. street cars^ running E., pass in front. 122 PRESIDENT S HOUSE. Grounds. — ^The oflBcial residence of the President of the United States is situated in the centre, near the N. limit of Reservation No. 1 of tlie city, known as the President's Grounds, and, revised measurement, comprising 80| a. The grounds immediately connected with the building consist of about 20a. On the E., about 450 ft. distant, is the Treasury De- partment, and the same distance on the W. are those of War, Navy, and State, tlie latter now building. On either side, between these buildings and the President's House, is Exe- cutive av. In front a broad av., connecting loth and 17th sts. W., separates the N. Park from Lafayette Square, in which is tlie Equestrian Statue of General Jackson. Two gateways. PBESIDEKT'S HOUSE— NORTH TBONT. connected by a semi-circular drive and footwalk, constitute the entrances to the N". Park, and lead to the N. portico of the building. This portion of tlie grounds is laid out in walks and parterres, with a fountain in the centre. On the E. and W. the walks leave the grounds by granite steps, and lead to the executive offices. In 1841, on the E. of the N. Park was a rustic gateway of freestone, on either side of which stood a large w^eeping willow. The wife of one of the Presidents, upon being congratulated upon her elevation, replied; '■'I don't know that there is much cause for congratulation ; the President of the United States generally comes in at the iron gate (N.) and goes out at the weeping willows." On the E. is the bronze statue of Thomas Jefferson, holding in his 1. hand the scroll of the Declaration of Independence, and in the r. a pen, just having finished signing the document. On the base, r. side, is an inscription, ''Presented by Uriah Phillips president's house. 123 Le\y, of the United States Navy, to his fellow-citizens, 1833." On the 1. ''P. T. David D'Angers, sculptor, 1833. Fondie a Paris par Honore Conon et ses deux fils." Captain Levy was an ardent admirer of the subject, and the purcliaser of Mon- ticello, tlie liome of Jefferson. It first stood in tlie Rotunda of tlie Capitol, from whence it was removed to the site of the fountain N. of the President's House, and in 1873 to its pres- ent position. The grounds S. of the President's House are divided into two parts by tlie semi-circular extension of Ex- ecutive av. That part within the enclosure is private, and is adorned witli lawns, walks, trees, flowers, and a fountain. Tlie Consei-vatories adjoining lie on the W. From a stand at the flag-staff in front of the S. portico, on every Saturday afternoon during the summer, tlie Marine Band discourses music for the enjoyment of the President's family and the public. The same band plays on Wednesdays, during the season, in the E. Park of the Capitol. Tlie grounds S. of Executive av. are sometimes designated by the meaningless title of " White Lot:' On tlie W. are the PresidenVs Stables. In the centre, running S., is a broad avenue, which connects with the drive on the Mall. • Description. — The President's House (E. Room open to vis- itors every day, except Sunday, from 10 a. m. to 3 p. m.) faces N. and S., and is 170 ft. front by 86 ft. deep, two stories high, broken by pilasters of the order, and crowned with a balus- trade. The entire structure is built of freestone, painted white. On the N. front projects a grand portico, supported on 8 Ionic columns, 2 on either side and 4 in front, and 4 corresponding pilasters in the rear. The outer intercolumni- ation aflbrds a shelter for carriages, from which steps ascend to a broad platform in front of the main door. The centre is for pedestrians. The S. front is adorned with a lofty semi- circular colonnade of G columns, of the same style as the N., resting on a rustic basement, and reached by 2 flights of steps. On the W. are the Conservatories. The general style is a modification of Lienster House, Dublin, the residence of the Duke of Lienster. The main door on the N. opens into a spacious vestibule or entrance hall, 40 ft. front by 50 ft. deep. A sash screen, removed on public occasions, di- vides the entrance hall into two unequal parts, securing greater privacy for the suite of parlors on the S. The en- trance hall is frescoed overhead. The medallions on either side of the beautiful crystal chandelier are canvas. On the walls of the liall and corridor, within the screen, are portraits of Presidents John Adams, Van Buren, Tyler, Polk, Fill- more, and Pierce, by Healy^ purchased under the act of 1857. 124 president's house. The Washington is by Stuart. Durino^ the invasion of the British one of tiie colored servants of President Madison cut this picture from the frame, and in the fli. m.) occupies an L-shaped brick building, on the SW. corner of H and North Capitol sts. The Ofiice may be reached by the Columbia Horse Eaihcay. Visitors should alight and enter by the door nearest N. Capitol st. There is also a public entrance on the latter st. It will be necessary for strangers to state to the watchman at either door that they desire to visit the build- ing. The building measures 300 ft. on H St., aUd 175 ft. on N. Capitol St., and is 60 ft. deep and four stories high. The building, without the addition of an extension of 60 ft. on the W. end, and an L of 113 ft. on the E. end, made in 1871, Avas purcliased in 1860 by the Superintendent of Public Printing, an ofiice then created under authority of an act of Congress. It had previously belonged to Cornelius Wendell, and was then used as a printing office, under the contract system. The object of the purchase was the execution of the printing and binding authorized b}'^ the Senate and House of Repre- sentatives, tlie Executive and Judicial Departments, and the Court of Claims. Connected with the main building are a paper warehouse, machine shops, boiler and coal liouses, wagon shed and stable. On t\\Q first floor are the press, wetting, drying, and engine rooms. The presses include a variety of patterns, and are adapted to every species of Avork. There are 52 in all, from the immense Bullock press to the small Gordon. On the second floor are the composing-room, with 300 stands, the GOVERNMENT PRINTING OmCE. 169 proof-reading rooms, the electro and stereotype foundery, and the offices of the Congressional Printer. On the third floor is the bindery, including embossing, numbering, paging, rul- ing, stamping, stitching, marbling, and all other branches. The process of marbling is particularly interesting. On the fourth floor are the stitching and folding rooms and the Con- gressional Record office, with a capacity of working 100 men. The Record, containing the proceedings and debates of Con- gress, now printed at the Publi(3 Printing Office, is issued every day at 6 A. M. during the session of Congress. All bills and reports, without regard to length, are delivered in print to Congress the day following their presentation. The Public Printing Office is the largest establishment of the kind in the world. The capacity for work is practically without limit. Upwards of 120,000 pages of documentary composition and 1,000,000 volumes of that class of work have been turned out in a single year. The finest works printed here are the Medical and Surgical History of the War ; the reports of the Paris Exposition ; Astronomical Observations of the Naval Observatory ; the Census of 1870 ; the Case of the United States before the Tribunal of Arbitration at Gen- eva, in Englisli, French, and Portuguese ; professional papers of the Bureau of Engineers, War Department ; the Darien and Tehuantepec Ship-canal Expeditions; Haj^den's Final Surveys ; Clarence King's Surveys of the 40th Parallel ; the Coast Survey Reports ; and general Catalogues of the Libra- ries of tlie United States and the Surgeon General's Office. Public Printers. — Superintendents^ 1853, J. T. Towers, D. C; 1854, A. G. Seaman, Penn. ; 1858, G. W. Bowman, Penn. ; 1860, John Heart, Penn.; 1861, J. D. Defrees, Ind. ; 1866, C. Wendell, N. Y. Congressional Printers— lH(i7 , J. D. Defrees, Ind. ; 1869, A. M. Clapp, N. Y. The office is divided into the C(5mposing Department, 11. T. Brian, Foreman of Printing; Electro and Stereotyping, A. Elliott, jr., Maurice Joyce; Bindery, J. H Roberts. In 1852 the old contract system of public printing was abolished, and the office of Superintendent of Public Print- hig for each House of Congress was created. The work, though still executed by contract, was then done under the direction of those officers. In 1860 Congress took the public printing in their own hands, and in 1867 the office of Super- intendent of Public Printing was abolished, and instead the Senate of the United States was authorized to elect some competent person, a practical printer, to take charge of the Government Printing Office. 170 winder's building. WINDER'S BUILDING. This structure {open every day^ except Sunday^ from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m.) is situated on the NW. corner of F and 17th sts., opposite the Navy Department. It was originally ei-ected for a hotel, and was purchased by the Goveniment for the accommodation of public offices. The first floor is occupied principally by the Chief Engineer of the Army. The last room, No. 2, on the corridor leading to the r. after entering is the Battle Record Room^ in which the reports of tlie battles of the late war are filed and indexed. On the r. of the S. corridor. No. 13, is a^Ze room for the papers belonging to the Adjutant General's Office. The second floor, E. front, is devoted to the JvAge Advocate General of the Anny^ and the S. to the Orndance Office. The floors above are assigned to the Second Auditor of the Treasury Department. Ordnance Museum. — {Open every day., except Sunday., from 9 a. m. to^ p. m.) — This interesting military collection is on the second floor, and may be i-eached by ascending the steps opposite the main door, and keeping the corridors to the r., passing through the door marked '' Ordnance Office " to door No. 49 on the r. at the farther end of the corridor ; crossing this room and the connecting hall we enter the Museum, which occupies a detached building. The collection occupies two fine halls. The most conspicuous object on entering are the captured Confederate flags. They are all more or less associated with the battles of the late civil strife. The other objects of interest are United States Army infantry and cav- alry uniforms and accoutrements complete; section of an oak, which stood inside the Confederate entrenclmients near Spottsylvania C. H., and was cut down by musket balls in the attempt to recapture 'the works carried b}'- 2d Corps A. P., May 12, 1864; Jefferson Davis' rifle, a French piece, taken at the time of his capture in 1865 ; artillery, cavalry, and infantry accoutrements used in the U. S. Army from tlie earliest date; cheveaux-de-frise from front of Petersburg, Va. ; models and drawings of arsenals ; fuses for exploding shells and cannon ; shells picked up on the battle-fields ; cart- ridge bags for field, siege, and sea-coast artillery, the largest containing 100 lbs. ; projectiles of various sizes, botli spherical and rifled, the largest being 20 in. in diameter, and weigliing 1,000 lbs. ; portable cavalry forge and tools complete ; Gat- ling guns of various sizes, including tlie "Camel" gun mounted on tripod, and of which large numbers are in use in Egypt ; a Billinghurst and Requia battery ; a Union or CITY HALL. 171 "coffee-mill" gun ; a steel Whltvvorth gun, one of a battery from loyal Americans in Europe to the United States in 1861 ; the carriage of a 4 lb. cannon, formerly the property of the city of Vicksburg, fii-ed at a passing steamer several days before any guns were fired at United States forts or troops at Charleston or Pensacola — the gun is at West Point ; breech loaders captured at Richmond; confederate projectiles; models complete, showing mountings of guns in casemate and barbette, also mortars; a gun mounted on a saddle; models of field and siege artillery, caissons, forges, and bat- tery wagons used in the U. S. Army; life-size models of horse artillery equipments, ordnance rockets, and fii'eworks. On the second fioor is the Museum of small arms, in which can be traced their history from the beginning, and practically illustrating the stages of advancement. American breech-load- ing and repeating tii-e-arms, fi'om the first invented in the Uni- ted States, about 1831 . Patterns of arms manufactured by con- tract during the war, called ''contract arms." Models of latest breech-loaders. A muzzle-loader which fires two cartridges from one barrel. A set of rifles, from flintlocks to most ap- proved patterns. Muskets, rifles, and carbines, breech and muzzle-loading, captured from the confederates. Materials used in the composition of powder. Suit of armor of 1610. Cuu-ass and helmet from the battle-field of Sedan, the former partly pierced by a bullet, and the latter showing a severe sabre cut. Also horse pistol, flintlock, bayonets and swords from the same field ; cavalry equipments. Bavarian cuirasses, foreign cavalry equipments, patterns of foreign arms, case of Indian war clubs, swivels, arquebuses, case of pistols and re- volvers, Japanese two-handed sword, worn by Kondo, a pro- vincial oflicer of Japan, upon his visit to the United States in 1871, who being convinced of the uselessness of the ancient custom of wearing two swords, presented it to Arinori Mori, charge d'aftaires, who, in turn, presented it to the museum ; three wall pieces manufactured during the earliest use of gun- powder ; two racks of pistols, some of early date ; case of artil- lery and cavalry sabres of different styles and dates ; case of captured confederate sabres ; cases representing the various periods of the manufacture of small-arm cartridges ; rack of old patterns of swords. CITY HALL. The City Hall, until 1871, occupied jointly by the munici- pal government of Washington and the United States Courts 172 ARSENAL. fpr the District of Columbia, in 1873, by purchase, became the sole property of the United States, and is now entirely devoted to judicial purposes. The structure stands on the S. line of Ju(Uciary Square, fronting 4^ st. W., and at the intersection of Louisiana and Indiana avs. In the open space in frpnt is a marble column sm-mounted by a statue of Lincoln by Lot Flannery, a self-taught sculptor. It was erected out of the contributions of a number of patriotic citizens. Tlie building was commenced in 1820, from plans by George Hadfield, the architect of tlie Capitol. The E. wing was finished in 1826, and the W. in 1849. It is two stories, 47 ft. high, and con- sists of a recessed centre 150 ft. long, witli two projecting wings, eacli 50 ft. front and 166 ft. deep. The entire frontage is 250 ft. The structure is built of freestone painted white. In the centre of the main building, and in each wing, are re- cessed porticos, formed of Doric columns. Between the wings is a paved space. AESENAL. The arsenal {open from sunrise to simseO occupies a tract of 45 a. at the extreme S. point of the city. It is accessible by the 9th-st. line of the Metropolitan horse railway^ the terminus of which is near the gate, at the foot of 4^ st. W. The tract originally comprised 28^- a., and included the point of land at the conlluence of the Potomac and Anacostia rivers, extend- ing f i-om the former stream to the mouth of James Creek, and N. to T st. S. In 1857 it was extended, by the purchase of the adjoining land on the N., (16 a.,) between the Potomac and the James Creek Canal, to P. st. S. The grounds are laid out in walks and drives, and entered througii a gateway consisting of iron gates swung on 32 and 24-pdr. cannon. The guard room is on the 1., and on the r. is a 15-in. Kodman gun, and below a pendulum house, in which is a iDenduhmi balance for testing the force of gun- powder. Tlie Chief of Ordnance resides at the end of the main drive, in the large building on the 1., and opposite are officers' quarters. The old quai-ters and shops are at the S. extremity of the grounds, about | m., where there is also a gi"ove of oaks, hickorj', and American beech. The distance from tlie commanding officer's quarters to JPennsylvania av. is 2 m. In front of the old quarters are a number of captm*ed cannon and mortars, among which are two Blakely guns, one inscribed, "Presented to the sovereign State of South Caro- lina, by one of her citizens residing abroad, in commemora- ARSENAL. 173 tion of the 20 of Dec, I860;" a brass gnu with a ball in the muzzle, shot tlierc in the battle of Gettysburg ; guns surren- renclered by the British by the Convention of Saratoga, Oct. 17, 1777; French guns taken at the battle of Niagara, July 25, 1814; a 64 pounder captiu-ed at Vera Cruz, March 29, 1847 ; and guns captured from Cornwallis at Yorl^to^^'n, Oct. 19, 1781 : also a number of small guns and mortars, some of date 1756. In 1826 the United States Penitentiary, designed by Bullfinch, was commenced on the present N. portion of these grounds. It was completed m 1829. The body of Booth, the assassin of President Lincoln, was landed at the small wharf at the lower end of the grounds, and was buried in one of the lower cells of the penitentiary. The other con- spirators were buried in the same building. When the peni- tentiary was torn down, these bodies were taken up and reinterred in one of the storehouses. They have all since been removed. In 1865 the body of Wirz, the keeper of the Andersonville prison, was also brought here, after the execu- tion at the Old Capitol. It is now buried in Mt. Olivet ceme- tery. The grounds afford a delightful stroll or drive, with the broad Potomac on the W. and the James Creek Canal on the.E. In the arsenal buildings are stored guns of various sizes, shot and shell, artillery implements and equipments, cavalry and infantry accoutrements, and small arms. There are also oflicers' quarters, barracks, hospitals, bakeries, stables, and machine, carpenter, blacksmith, and painters' shops, lumber storehouses, and two magazines for fixed ammunition and small-arm cartridges. The principal magazines are on the Anacostia. A detachment and three officers of the ordnance corps are on duty. In 1803 a military station was established on the Arsenal grounds. In 1807 shops were erected. In 1812 powder was stored here. In 1813 it became a regular depot of supplies. In 1814 it was destroyed by the British. A number of the latter were killed by the explosion of powder secreted in a well near tlie quarters. In 1815 it was rebuilt under Col. George Bomford. In 1816 buildings were erected by the Ordnance Department. The station was under command of M. Villard, a French oflficer, who came to the United States with Lafayette. During the rebellion, 1861-'65, the Arsenal was the depot of ordnance supplies for the Army of the Potomac. Large quantities of ammunition and gun car- riages were made here. In 1864 twenty-one girls were killed in an explosion of one of the laboratories. Since the war the grounds have been beautified. 174 NAVY -YARD. NAVY-YARD. The Navy- Yard {open every day, except Sundajj, from 7 a. m. to sunset,) is situated on the Anacostia, f in. SE. of the Capitol, 8th st. E. terminating at the entrance. It may be reached from the W. portions of the city in tlT£ red cars of the Pennsylvania av. st. railway. The officer of the marine guard at the gate will pass visitors. The present grounds comprise about 27 a., and are entered by a stone gateway, in Doric style, over which are small cannon-and-ball embellish- ments, and in the centre a well-executed eagle, resting on an anchor. Inside, on the r., is the guard-room, and opposite the officers' room. An avenue runs S. from tlie entrance to the building occupied by tlie Commandant's and other offices of the yard. The Executive officer's room is on the second floor, and from whom a permit may be obtained, which will admit the bearer to any part of the yard, in the workshops, and on board any monitors in the stream. Immediately within tiie entrance, on either side of the avenue, are two large guns, captured in 1804, by Commodore Decatur from two "Tripolitan gunboats. The buildings on the 1. and r. are the officers' quarters: those of the Com- mandant being on the 1. On the 1. of the main avenue are the storehouses, copper-works, &c. ; and on the r. the foundry, machine, and other sliops. S. of the Conmiandant's building are a number of cannon and projectiles : among the former two of 1686 and 1767 date, captured at Norfolk, Va., 1862; several Austrian and French guns, and two Austrian howit- zers, rifled, captured on the steamer Columbia in 1802. On the river bank are two ship-houses E. and W. Near the E. is the boat-liouse, from which a boat may be taken to the monitors, if any, in the stream. More to the W. lies the receiving-ship, the W. ship-house, and a water battery. The large building crowning the hill on the opposite side of the river is the National Asylum for the Insane. The view down the river is very fine. In the W. part of the yard is tlie Ord- nance-shop and Laboratoiy. The avenue leading back to- w*ardsthe main entrance passes near the Museum, {open from 9 a. m. to 4.J9. m.) On either side of the door are a number of projectiles of the largest size. Among these a 20-in. shot, weighing 1,048 lbs. The gun is on the Eip-raps, Hampton Koads. Here may be seen a number of relics and other ob- jects of interest : among which, on the first floor, are a Span- ish gun. cast about 1400, brouglit to America by Cortez, and used in the conquest of Mexico ; a Spanish gun captured by Commodore Stockton in California in 1847 ; an old-style re- NAVY- YARD. 175 NAVY-VAUI). peater ; a small mortar, captured from Lord Oornwallis ; a section of the sternpost of the Kearsar<:^e, showing a shell, which did not explode, fired into it by the Alabama; confed- erate torpedoes, taken out of soutliern harbors ; submarine roclvets; models of projectiles, and a veiy interesting col- lection of those whicii had been fired. On the second floor are principally small arms ; models of camion ; a model of the ordnance doclc, Brooklyn ; brass swivels, one very old, said to have belonged to Cortez ; a telescope rifle ; two blunder- busses, and cases of rifles and pistols. The walls and ceil- ings are artistically decorated with pikes, cutlasses, sabres, and pistols. History.— On Oct. 30, 1799, the selection of a site for the Navy- Yard was brought to the attention of the commission- ers, and led to considerable correspondence with Naval Agent William Marbnry. The ground best suiced for that purpose lay on the Anacostia, a short distance above its confluence with the Potomac, on land owned by Messrs. Carroll and Prout. On Dec. 3, 1799, the Secretary of the Navy gave orders to lay the ground out. The yard, however, was not formally establislied till the passage of the act of Marcli, 1804. In those early days it was unrivalled. Such famous vessels as the "Wasp, Argus, the brig Viper, the Essex, the schoon- ers Shark and Grampus, the sloop of war St. Louis, 24 guns, and frigates Columbia, Potomac, and Brandywine, 44 guns each, were built here. In 1837 it was proposed to establish a 176 MARINE BARRACKS. naval school at the yard. Of late yeai-s the yard has lost its prominence for naval construction, owina^ to the greater fa- cilities presented by more recently-established stations, and the tilling up of the channel. In 1816 a ship of the line could anchor here. The j^ard is now one of the most important for the manufacture of naval supplies. ISIARINE BARRACKS. A short distance X. of tiie Xavy-Yard gate, on the E. side of 8th St. E., between G and I sts. S., are the Marine Barracks. The Pennsylvania av. cars [red) for the ISTavy-Yard pass the iron gate, which is the general entrance. Visitors are admit- ted from 9 a. m, till sundoicn^ but can be passed before that time by the officer of the day. The barracks have a frontage of 700 feet. The centre building, used for officers' (juarters, is two stories high, and the wings are one story, with accom- modations for 200 men. The offices of the general stafi' are opposite, on 9th st. E. On the jS'. of the square a:e the quar- ters of the Brigadier General and Commandant of the ^Marine Corps, and opposite, on the S., is the armory and liospital. In the former are some interesting Marine Corps flags. One bears the inscription "From Tripoli to the Halls of the Mon- tezumas" by land and sea; also, a Corean flag captured in battle. The most interesting occasion for a visit would be at the time of general inspection on any Monday, weather permit- ting, at 10 a. m., wlien the Marines and their excellent band may be seen in full parade. Every day at 8 a. m. in summer and 9 a. m. in Mdnter, there is guard mounts the band per- forming. The barracks were burnt by the British in 1814, but were immediately rebuilt. Recruits are sent here for in- struction before being detailed for service on the vessels of the Navy. The Marine Corps was organized in 1798 as an adjunct to the naval establishment, then placed under an independent administration. The corps has participated, with glory to its officers and men, in all the brilliant achievements which have characterized the operations of. the Na^y of the United States whenever called upon to vindicate the honor of the na- tion. On land the corps has borne itself nobly; and against greatly superior numbers and overcoming grave obstacles, has invariably returned Mith fresh laurels. In the Tripolitan and Mexican wars, in their participation in the attack on Fort MAGAZINES. 177 Fisher, in their desperate conflict on the coast of Corea against overwlielming numbers of the barbarous enemy, and in re- peated retaliatory landings on the shores of Asiatic countries and islands of tlie Pacific, their discipline and bravery liave won for them a bright page in the nation's history. The headquarters of the corps are appropriately at the ISTatiojial Capital, being established at the Marine Barracks. The com- mandant or superior officer holds the rank of brigadier gen- eral ; there are also 1 colonel, 2 lieutenant colonels. 4 majors, 20 captains, and an increased number of lieutenants. The numerical strength of the corps by law is 2,500 men. MAGAZINES. The Army and Navy Magazines, to which there is no ad- mittance, occupy about 6 a. "in the S. part of reservation No. 13, or Hospital Square, situated in the extreme E. part of the city on the Anacostia. They consist of four brick buildings, the two for the Army on the N., and those for the Navy on the S., with a capacity of 2,000 bbls. each. The grounds are tastefully laid out. A sergeant and private and a small detach- ment of 'marines are on duty. The wharf at the foot of the grounds is used exclusively for the discharge or shipment of powder. In 1873 the Bellville farm, of 90 a., on Oxen creek, with a frontage on the Potomac nearly opposite Alexandria, was purchased for the Naval Magazine, which will be remov- ed from its present location. The large quantities of powder usually stored in these magazines occasions great uneasiness to the inhabitants of the adjacent parts of tlie city. Frequent measures have been taken to have the magazines removed. That of the Navy will be transferred to its new site as soon as the buildings are ready for use. The Army magazines. will doubtless speedily follow. 12 SECTION lY. PLACES OF GENERAL INTEREST, SMITHSONIAN^ IXSTITUTIOX. I HE Smithsonian Institution {open daily ^ except Sunday^ from 9 a. m. to 4 p. m.) occupies a fine site S. of Pennsylvania av., and maj^ be conveniently reached by 10th st. W.. the centre of the N. front of the building facing that street . Grounds, — The whole area of what are now desig- nated the Smithsonian Grounds — that is, from 7th to 12th st. and between B sts. N. and S., covers 52| aci-es. The Smith- sonian grounds proper, and which were set apart for the In- stitution in 1846, consist of 20 a., situated in the SW. corner of the larger reservation. At first the cliarge of the Smith- sonian grounds proper was under the Institution. About 15 years ago, however, Congress resumed thei!- supervision. They were tlien tin-own into the extensive and beautiful res- ervation which now surrounds the Institution building. The grounds wctc designed and partially laid out by the distinguished horticulturist and landscape gardener, Andrew Jaclvson Downing, whose death occurred while in tlie prose- cution of liis plans. Thej'^ are arranged with lawns, groves, di-ives, and footways, and are planted witli 150 species of trees and shrubs, chiefly American. In the E. portion of the grounds, IST. of the E. wing of the building, is a vase of ex- quisite beauty, designed by Calvert Vaux,"of N^ewburg, N". Y., executed by Robert Launitz, scul])tor, of New York, and erected by the American Pomological Society to the memory of Downing. The funds were supplied by fri(Muls of. the deceased. The principal design of the monument con- sists of a large vase of antique pattern, worked in Italian marble, and resting on a pedestal of the same material. The vase is 4 ft. high and 3 ft. in diameter at the upper rim. The body is ornamented with arabesque. Acanthus leaves sur- round the lower part. The handles rest on the heads of satyrs, gods of groves and woods, and the pedestal on a carved base a78 SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. 179 surrounded with a coruioe. On each side is a deep panel, relieved by carved niouldinortraU of Mr. Corcoran at 69 years of age, founder of the Institution, painted by Charles Elliott in 1867. Mr. Corcoran was born in Georgetown, in 1798, and re- ceived his education tliere. He began business as an auction- eer and commission merchant. In 1837 he became a banker in Washington. In 1840 he became associated with George W. Riggs, and retired from business in 1854. Mr. Corcoran still enjoys excellent health. Among the interesting objects ordered are plaster copies of about two-thirds of the Elgin marbles in the British Museum ; a collection of porcelain and Fayance manufacture ; copies of the Baptistry Gates at Florence ; and antiques being cast in plaster in Paris and Rome. WASHINGTOI!^ NATIONAL MONUMENT. This long-neglected tribute to the life and character of George Washington, occupies a conspicuous site on a small plateau near the banks of the Potomac, W. of the Mall, where the Tiber formerly emptied into the main stream, and S. of the President's House. The Monument Grounds.^ or Park., as originally designated, have an area of 45 a. An avenue 69 ft wide connects Execu- tive av. with the Drive Avhich, leaving the lake on the 1., fol- lows the line of the river bank, winds around the Monument, and communicates with the grounds of the Department of Agriculture at 14th st. W. A short distance W. of the Mon- ument may be seen the stone which marks the centre of the District of Columbia. On the hillside to the S. are the Gov- ernment Propagating Garden and Nm'sery. The Design, — The design of the Monument, prepared by Robert Mills, comprehends an appropriate National testimo- nial to the services of the great citizen in whose honor it was founded, and at the same time symbolizes the Republic estab- lished by his patriotism and discretion. It embraces the idea of a grand circular colonnaded building, 250 ft. in diameter, WASHINGTON NATIONAL MONUMENT. 193 WASHINGTON MONUMENT. and 100 ft. high, from which springs an obelisk shaft'70 ft. at the base and 500 ft. high. The vast rotnnda, forming the grand base of the monnment, is surrounded by 30 columns of massive proportions, be- ing 12 ft. in diameter and 45 ft. high, elevated upon a lofty base or stylobate of 20 ft. elevation and 300 ft. square, surmounted by an entablature 20 ft. high, and crowned by a massive balus- trade 15 ft. in height. The terrace outside of the colonnade is 25 ft. wide, and the pronaos or walk within the colonnade, including the col- umn space, 25 ft. Tlie walks inclosing the cella, or gallery within, are fretted with 30 massive pilasters 10 ft. Avide, 45 ft. high, and 7J ft. projection, answer- ing to the columns in front, surmounted by their appropriate architrave. The deej) recesses formed by the projection of the pilasters provide suitable niches for the reception of statues. A tetrastyle portico, (four columns in front,) in triple rows of the same proportions and order with the columns of the colonnade, distinguishes the entrance to the monument, and serves as a pedestal for the triumphal car and statue of the illustrious chief. The steps to this portico are flanked by massive blockings, surmounted by appropriate figures and trophies. Over each column, in the great frieze of the entablatm-es, around the entire building, are sculptured escutcheons, (coats of arms of each State in the Union,) surrounded by bronze civic wreaths, banded together by festoons of oak leaves, &c., all of which spring (each way) from the centre of the portico, where the coat of arms of the United States is emblazoned. The statues surrounding the rotunda outside, under the colonnade, are all elevated upon pedestals, and will be those of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Ascending the portico outside to the terrace level a lofty vomitoria, (doorway,) 30 ft. high, leads into the cella, (rotunda gallery,) 50 ft. wide, 500 ft, in circumference, and 68 ft. high, with a colossal pillar in the centre 70 ft. in diameter, around which the gallery sweeps. This pillar forms the foundation of the obelisk column above. Both sides of the gallery are divided into spaces by pUas- 13 194 WASHINGTON NATIONAL MONUMENT. ters, elevated on a continued zocle or base 5 ft. high, forming an order, mth its entablature, 40 ft., crowned by a vaulted ceiling 20 ft., divided by radiating archevaults corresponding with the relative positions of the opposing pilasters, and in- closing deep sunken coffers enriched with paintings. The spaces between tlie pilasters are sunk into niches for the reception of the statues of the fathers of the Revolution, contemporary with Washiu,2:ton ; over which are large tablets to receive the national paintings commemorative of the bat- tles and other scenes of that memorable period. Opposite to the entrance of this gallery, at the extremity of the great cir- cular wall, is the grand niche for the reception of the statue of the "Father of his Country," elevated on its appropriate pedestal, and designated as principal in the group bj^ its co- lossal proportions. This spacious gallery and rotunda, which properly may be denominated the ''national Pantheon," is lighted in 4 grand divisions from above. Entering the centre pier through an arched way, you pass into a spacious circular area, and a^^cend with an easy grade, by a railway, to the grand terrace, 75 ft. alcove the base of the monument. This terrace is 700 ft. in circumference, 180 ft. wide, inclosed by a colonnade balustrade 15 ft. high, with its ba.«e and capping. The circuit of this grand terrace is studded with small temple-formed structures, constituting the cupolas of the lanterns, lighting the pantheon gallery below. Through the base of the great circle of the balustrade are 4 apertures at the 4 cardinal points, leading outside of the bal- ustrade upon the top of the main cornice, where a gallery 6 ft. wide and 750 ft. in circumference encircles the whole, in- closed by an ornamental guard, forming the crowning mem- ber on the top of the tholiis of the main cornice of the grand colonnade. Within the thickness of this wall staircases de- scend to a lower gallery over the plafond of the pronaos of the colonnade, lighted from above. This gallery, which ex- tends around the colonnade, is 20 ft. wide, divided into rooms for the records of the monument, works of art, or studios for artists engaged in the service of the monument. Two other ways communicate with this gallery from below. In the centre of tlie grand terrace above described rises the lofty obelisk shaft of tlie monument, 70 ft. square at the base, and 500 ft. high, diminishing as it rises to its apex, where it is 40 ft. square ; at the foot of this shaft, and on each face, pi'oject 4 massive zocles 25 ft. high, supporting so many co- lossal sj'^mbolic tripods of victory^ 20 ft. high, surmounted by facial columns with their sj^mbols of authority. These zocle faces are embellished with inscriptions, which are continued WASHINGTON NATIONAL MONUMENT. 195 around the entire base of the shaft, and occupy the surface of that part of the shaft between tlie tripods. On each face of the shaft, above this, is sculptured the four leading- events in Washington's career in basso relievo, and above this the shaft is perfectly plain to within 50 ft. of its summit, where a sim- ple star is placed, emblematic of the glory which the name of Washington has attained. To ascend to the summit of the column, the same facilities as below are provided within the shaft by an easy-graded gal- lery, which may be traversed by a railway terminating in a circular observatory 20 ft. in diameter, around which, at the top, is a lookout gallery which opens a prospect all around the horizon. The inner space, or that under the grand gallery or rotun- da, may be appropriated to catacombs for the reception of tlie remains of such distinguished men fis the nation may honor with interment here. In the centre of the monument is placed the tomb of Wash- ington, to receive his remains, should they be removed thither, the descent to which is by a bi-oad flight of steps, lighted by the same light which illumines his statue. Description. — In its present state the Monument is 174 ft. high. It rests on a solid foundation of Potomac gneiss rock, 81 ft. square at the base, 8 feet below the surface, and 18 ft. above, narrowing to 60 ft. square. The base of the obelisk is 55 ft. square outside, the walls being 15 ft. thick, and 25 ft. square inside. The outer surface consists of heavy blocks of crj^stal marble, from Maryland, laid in regular courses of about 2 ft., and backed to the required thickness by gneiss rock, as used in the foundation. The inside of the wall is perpendicular, while the outer surface gradually recedes. At the summit, when completed, the walls will have a thickness of but 2 ft. The interior will be provided with an iron stair- case. The tablets already built in the interior walls are ar- ranged to correspond with the galleries of the proposed stairway. The Monument, as it now stands, cost $230,000, and was six years in building, when the funds ran out. The esti- mated cost of the obelisk is $550,000, and pantheon $570,000 additional. Total, $1,120,000. The Monument completed would rank with the loftiest works of ancient or modern times, viz : Tower of Babel, G80 ft.; Washington Monument completed, GOO ft.; Cologne Cathedral completed, 511 ft. ; Balbec, 500 ft. ; Pyramid of Cheops, 480 ft. ; Cathedral, Strasbourg, 474 ft. ; St. Peter's, Kome, 458 ft. ; St. Stephen, Vienna, 445 ft. ; Cathedral, Sails- 196 ARMORY. bury, England, 406 ft. ; Cathedral, Antwerp, 405 ft. ; St. Paul's Cathedi-al, London, 404 ft. ; Cathedral, Milan, 400 ft. The Lapidarimn.— In the low wooden building NE. of the Monument may be seen the tablets intended for the interior of the Monument, to be placed the same as those already used. A keeper, who has charge of the keys, resides on the ground, and will exhibit the Monument and tablets, 81 in number, to visitors. Among the American contributions are a block of native copper, weighing 2,100 pounds, from Michigan, and 12 bricks from the birthplace of Washington. Tlie contributions from abroad are from Mount Vesuvius ; Swiss Republic ; a block of granite from the Alexandrian Library, Egypt ; China ; Bre- men; Sultan of Turkey; the Temple of Carthage, Africa; ancient Egyptian head; Governor and Commune of the Islands of Paros and jS'axos ; Temple of Esculapius, island of Paros ; Greek Government ; and Japan. History. — ^Repeated attempts have been made to erect a suitable tribute to the memory of Washington. In 1783 the Continental CongTcss passed a resolution for a National Monument. The site for the Monument, near the present undertaking,. was approved by AVashington himself in the lii'st j)lan of the city. In 1800 a bill passed in one House of Congress to erect a ''mausoleum of American granite and marble in pyramidal form, 100 ft. square at the base, and of proportionate height." The Washington National Monument Association, the name by which the association of distinguished gentlemen wiio projected the monument was known, was organized in 1835. The amount collected to 1848 was $230,000. The corner- stone was laid July 4, 1848, with Masonic ceremonies, and in the presence of 4,000 people. Repeated efforts' have since been made to effect its completion, but without success. ARMORY. This building stands on the SE. portion of the Mall, E. of the Smithsonian Institution, and fronts on 6tli st. W. The main entrance is on the E., where a flight of steps leads to the drill-rooms on the second and third floors. The first floor is paved and arranged for artillery, there being three suitable entrances on the N. and S. sides of the CHURCHES. 197 builcVino:. Each floor is supported by 12 iron pillars, and is provided with gun racks and cases for accoutrements. The building is about 103 by 57 ft. In 1853 Congress authorized the erection of the building, to be used for the care of ord- nance arms, accommodation of volunteers and military of the District of Columbia, and for tlie preservation of military trophies of the revolution and otlier wars. It w^as finished in 1857. The building has long been out of use. It is proposed to place it in repair for the purposes for which it was origi- nally intended. CHUKCHES. The capital possesses many church edifices which, in ar- chitectural display and dimensions, have kept pace with the growth of the population in numbers and affluence. The finest are the Metropolitan MetJiodist Episcopal^ in which are also an interesting collection of relics from the Holy Land and memorial windows. First Congregational^ New-York Av. Preshyterian^ Epiphany Protestant Episcopal^ Foundry Methodist, Calvary Baptist, and St. Aloysius, Roman Catho- lic. Of the colored churches, the Fifteenth St. Presbyterian and Nineteenth St. Baptist are very fine structures. A list of leading churches and locations will be found in General Information. In 1794 the Washington Parish of the Protestant Episco- pal Church, to include the cities of Washington and George- town, was formed out of St. John's and St. Paul's Parishes. The parish of Christ Church was next created, and the church edifice near the Navy Yard was erected about 1800. For sixteen years it was the only Episcopal place of worship in the city. It was attended by Jefferson and Madison. Ser- vices are still held in the same structure. The first Presby- terian church services were held in 1793, in the carpenter shop used by the joiners at work on the President's House. The first Baptist church began worship in 1802, and com- menced a building on the corner of I and 19th sts. NW. in 1803. The first Presbyterian church on F st. was established in 1803, services being first held in the hall of the Treasury building. In 1826 their new building was completed. St. Patrick's, Roman Catholic, was established in 1810. A Methodist church was erected near the Navy Yard in 1805, but meetings had been held in the city before. St. Jolm's Episcopal Church, on the NE. corner of 16tli and H sts. l98 HALLS. NW., opposite Lafayette Square, was erected in 1816, from designs by Latrobe, the architect of the Capitol. In 1820 it was enlarged, and its original form, a Greek cross, was changed to a Latin, and a portico and steeple added. Among those who attended services here were Presidents Madison, Monroe, and Jackson, and the diplomatic representatives of England. The first Unitarian church, on 6th and D sts. NW., fronting on Louisiana av., was erected in 1824. HALLS. There are a number of halls in various parts of the city. Masoilic Temple is on the NW. corner of F and 9th sts. NW., entrance on F St., and was erected by the Masonic Hall Association. The corner-stone was laid in 1868. The build- ing is of granite and Connecticut and Nova Scotia freestone, and cost $200,000. The two exposed faces are tastefully en- riched with an appropriate introduction of Masonic symbols. The ground-floor is occupied by stores, and the second by a public hall, 100 by 48 ft. and 25 ft. high, and retiring rooms. The hall has been the scene of some of the most brilliant balls and State sociables given at the capital. . In the third story are the Blue Lodges of Masonry, and in the fourth the Koj^al Arch Chapters and Commanderies. The furniture and fittings of the lodges are of superior qualitj^ and are unsur- passed in any similar place in the country. A lodge of Ma- sons was established in the earliest days of the capital. Prior to 1816 there were two which assembled in a building on the borders of the river. Under the pavement of the Temple, on the S. front, is what was formerly known as the City Spring, Odd Pellows' Hall, situated on 7th st. W., bet. D and E sts. The earlier building was dedicated in 1846, and erected out of funds subscribed by the lodges and members meeting in the central part of the city. It was remodeled in 1873. It has a granite base and pressed-brick superstructure, with gal- vanized-iron pilasters, jambs, caps, and cornice, and is sur- mounted by three domes, that in the centre raised above the others. The gi'ound-floor is occupied by stores. The stair- way at the main entrance leads to the main hall, on the sec- ond floor. The hall is 100 by 40 ft. and 22 ft. liigh, and fitted with a stage of 21 ft. additional, at tlie E. end. It is princi- pally designed for balls, concerts, and lectures. Adjoining NEWSPAPER OFFICES. 199 are ladies' retiring and gentlemen's cloak-rooms. The third floor contains two lodge and one Encampment rooms. The Library^ on the same floor, for the use of members of the Order and their families, contains a fine collection of books. The first Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows was established in the District of Columbia in 1827 ; the Grand Lodge followed in 1828. Lincoln Hall. — This fine structure stands on the NE. cor- ner of 9th and D sts. NW. It is ])uilt of Seneca brownstone, with iron trimmings, is three stories high, surmounted by a Mansard roof. Tlie corner-stone on the SW. bears the in- stription, " Y. M, C. A., Nov. xxvii, mdccclxvii. Jeho- vah JiBEH." Tlie building was erected by a joint stock company chartered by act of Congress in 1867, and was com- pleted in 1869, at a cost of $200,000. On the ground floor are stores. There are two entrances to the upper floors : the main one to tiie Library and Reading Room and Lincoln Hall on D St. ; the smaller, on 9th st. The Free Reading Room and Library and the Parlors of the Association {open to the jniblic every day except Sunday, from 9 a. m. to 10 p. m.) are on tlie second floor under the Hall, en- trances on both sts. The Library contains about 17,000 vols., including the leading secular and religious newspapers of the country. The Washington City Library, founded in 1814, has been consolidated with it. On the same floor is Lincoln Hall, the flnest lecture or con- cert hall in the city, which will seat about 1,300 people. During each winter a course of lectures is given under the auspices of the Association. In its scientific course, tlie As- sociation is aided by the Smithsonian Institution. In addition to Lincoln Hall there is a smaller hall, used for religious and social gatherings of the Young Men's Christian Association, which are held twice daily, at noon and 6 p. m. Open to all. Willard's Hall, on F st., between 14th and 15th sts. W., also affords excellent accommodations for concerts or theatri- cals. NEWSPAPER OFFICES. The buildings occupied by two of the principal newspapers of the city will compare favorably in completeness, if not in size, with the best structures of the kind in the country. 200 NEWSPAPER OFFICES. The National Republican Printing 0-ffice stands on the SW. corner of Pennsylvania av. and 13th st. NW. It was designed by Henry R. Searle, of Wasliington, architect, and commenced in 1870. It measures 49 ft. front on the av. and 71 ft. depth on 13th St. It has an elevation of 100 ft. above the basement to the top of the tower, and is divided into five stories, includ- ing the French roof. It is built of point-dressed Seneca stone, from the Potomac, and rock-faced Ohio stone. The latter is used in the pilasters, belt, and sill courses, window arches, and cornices. In front of the second and fourth stories, on Pennsylvania av., are two Ohio-stone balconies, 16 ft. wide, with a projection of 5 ft., supported by hea\y stone brackets. The first story above the basement is built of solid alternate courses of Seneca and Ohio stone, and is topped with a heavy Ohio stone cornice. The remaining- stories to the cornice under the roof are Seneca stone, with Oliio stone trimnnngs. The arches of the windows of each story ditter, the first, sec- ond, and third having segment heads of different patterns, and the fourth a half-circle. Surmounting tlie entire struc- ture is a modern double pitch French roof, slated, and broken in towers, and dormer windows on each street. Below the roof is a cornice of galvanized iron, and above a cresting of the same material. Over the N. dormer window is a clock, surmounted by a gilded eagle 16 ft. from tip to tip, and carry- ing in its beak a shield, upon which is the monogram jST. R. There is a fiag staff of 60 ft. on the roof. There are entrances reached by granite steps on both streets. The building is fitted up with every convenience for the em- ployees, is supplied witli hydrants and fire-cocks on every fioor, and is heated by steam. The lower stories are fire-proof. The Chronicle Building is situated on Pennsylvania av., S. side, No. 914, between 9th and lOtli sts. W. It was erected in 1873, from designs by T. M. Plowman ; has a frontage of 25 ft. and depth of 107 ft. to C St., witli a basement and su- perstructure of 5 stories. Tlie front is of iron, faced with columns. Presses are on the tirst floor, editorial rooms on the second, job office on the third, bindery fourth, and-com- posing-room on the fifth. Tlie office possesses all the latest improvements of an establishment of the kind. The Evening Star newspaper company have also in con- templation tlie erection of a fine building in a desirable local- ity on Pennsylvania av. in the central part of the city. The selection of a site has been under consideration, and it is pro- posed to erect a building whicli, in exterior proportions and design, will be an ornament to the city, ancl its interior ar- rangement one of the most complete printing offices in the country. SCHOOLS. 201 SCHOOLS. The Public Schools are among tlie prominent features of the National Capital. Of the buildings are the Franklin^ 1st dis- trict, cor. 13th and K sts. NW., brick, 148 X 79 ft., basement and three stories, erected in 1 869, and contains 14 school-rooms. This is said to be one of the finest school buildings in the Uni- ted States. The Seatou, 2d district, on I, bet. 2d and 3d sts. NW., brick, 94 X 67 feet, basement and 3 stories, erected in 1871. The Wallach, 8d district, Pennsylvania av., bet. 7th and 8th sts. SE., brick, 99 X 76 ft., basement and three sto- ries, erected in 1864. Tlie Jefferson^ 4th district, cor. of 6th and D sts. SW., brick, 172 X 88 ft, basement and 3 stories, with 20 school-rooms, erected in 1872. This is the largest school building in the city. It will accommodate 1,200 pupils. It is named after Thomas Jefterson, President of the United States, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Public Schools of Washington, and president of the same 180o-'08. There are also fine grounds. In the four school districts there are 43 school buildings, owned or rented by the city. The oldest still standing was erected in 1800 for a stable, cor. 14th and G sts. NW. The Colored Schools are distinct from those attended by white children. Prior to 1862 there were no colored public schools. Subsequently the schools were under charitable associations of the North. The first building was erected in 1866, on the square now occupied by the Sumner building. The Sumner Building, on the NE. corner of M and 17th sts. NW., was completed in 1872, at a cost of $70,000. It is 04 ft. long, by 69 ft. wide, and has a basement, 3 stories, and a trussed roof. In it are 10 school-rooms. There are 13 public schools for colored children. The annual expenditures are about $318,000, One third of tliis sum is set apart for colored scliools. The total school population is 17,403. In 1805 the revenues for the support of schools were derived from the net proceeds of taxes on slaves, dogs, licenses for carriages and hacks, ordinaries and taverns, selling wines and spirits, billiard tables, hawkers and pedlers, tlieatres and other public amusements. In 1806 there were the E. and W. academies. In 1826 the schools were supported b}^ lottery. There is now a school tax. The public schools were quartered in rented rooms, prior to the dedication of the Wallach building, in 1864. 202 ASYLUMS. ASYT.UMS. There are a number of public and private institutions for the destitute and sick. Naval Hospital {open after 12 noon^ during the week, if no severe cases) occupies the square between 9th and 10th sts, E. and E st. S. and Pennsylvania av. It is accessible from the Pennsylvania av. sti-eet cars (red) for the Navy Yard, at E St. The hospital is under the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery of the Navy dcDartment, and is open to officers and men of the navy and marine corps. The building consists of a three-story brick edifice, with mansard, and possesses accommodations for 50 patients. There is a reading-room for convalescents. A medical director in the navy is in charge. Naval discipline is observed. National Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphan Home, on G st. be- tween 17th and 18th sts. NW., (open to visitors every day, except Sunday, after 9 a. m.,) was incorporated by Congress in 1866, and is supported by Government appropriations. It is under the direction of a Board of Lady Managers, and is for the sup])ort and education of the orphans of the national sol- diers or sailors who were killed or died of wounds in the re- bellion of 1861-'65. No applicants are received younger than 6 years, nor retained after 16 years. I Columbia Hospital for Women, and Lying-in Asylum, incorporated 1866, {visiting days Tuesdays and Fridays, from 10 a. m. to 4 p. m.,)is on the corner of L and 2oth sts. NW. The general wards for 50 patients are free to the wives of sol- diers, on the permit of the Surgeon General ; to women of other States, on permit of the Secretary of the Interior ; and to women of the District, on permit of the Governor. There are also private rooms and special wards for 30 patients, for the use of which a small compensation is required. Connected with the hospital is an operating room, used for free patients only, and open every Saturday at 3.30 p. m., to students of medicine in the District. In the W. wing is a dispensary, open every day, where the poor receive medicines and treat- ment free. The institution is principally supported by the National Government. Washington Asylum {open every day, except Sunday) is sit- uated in tlie extreme E. portion of the city, on the public reservation. No. 17, laid out for the purpose. It may be reached in 15 min. along C st. S., leaving the Pennsylvania ASYLUMS. 203 av. street cars (red) at that point. The institution combines an asyhim for the poor of the District, and a worlc-honse for persons convicted in the police courts of minor crimes except theft. There are accommodations in the brick buildino^s for 180 persons. The first building was erected in 1 815, but the present one in 1859. On the N. is the District jail, and S. the District nurseries, and beyond, the Army and Navy ma<^a- zines. About J m. distant, SW., is the "Congressional" Cemetery. Louise Home, {open to visitors every day^ except Sunday^ after 12 noon,) erected in 1871, was the gift of Mr. Corcoran. It is situated on Massachusetts av., bet. 15th and 16th sts. W. Its design* is for gentlewomen of education and refine- ment, but reduced to poverty. It is named after the wife and daughter of Mr. Corcoran, both deceased. The build- ing, a commodious structure, was erected and furnished un- der the personal supervisiou'of Mr. Corcoran, and, with the grounds, cost $200,000, and has accommodations for 55 per- sons. The institution is under the direction of a board of trustees, and has an endowment of $250,000. The inmates are invited by the board of directresses. Providence General Hospital, cor. 2d and D sts. SE., (open every day ^ from 10 ^o 12 a m. and 2 to 4 p. m.) The hospital is owned and under the care of the Sisters of Charity. It was founded in 1862, incorporated in 1864, and the present building commenced in 1867. It is about 280 ft. long, of brick, and will accommodate 250 patients. Towards the erection of the building, through Thaddeus Stevens, of Penn., Congress appropriated $30,000. There is now an annual ap- propriation for 75 non-resident paupers. Indigent persons receive permits from the Surgeon General of the Arm}'', but any one applying is taken in. The accommodations for pay patients are very superior. There is a medical statf of 12 physicians ; also, a reading-room, library, chapel, and oper- ating-room. The "Washington City Orphan Asylum, on I, bet. 2d and 3d sts. ]SrW., was founded in 1815, Dolly P. Madison, wife of the President of the United States, being first directress and Mrs. Van Ness second. It was incorporated in 1828, and the cor- ner-stone of the first building was laid by Mrs. Van Ness on Mausoleum square, on H, bet. 9th and 10th sts. NW., the bm-ial-ground of the Burns family. The building is now oc- cupied by the St. Joseph's Orphan Asylum. It is under the direction of the benevolent ladies of the city. The present 204 ASYLUMS. building is but temporarily occupied, that erected for the per- manent use of the Asylum being now rented by the Depart- ment of State. Children's Hospital, on E, bet. 8th and 9th sts. NW., (visit- ing days Sundays^ Tuesdays^ and Fridays^ from ^ to op. m.,) incorporated in 1871. It is under the patronage of benevo- lent ladies and gentlemen, of the city, and has for its object the free provision of surgical and medical treatment for the helpless children of the District between the ages of 15 mos. and 15 yrs. Admissions througli tlie Board Physicians. The sick of the City Orplian Asylum are also treated here. There is a free dispensary connected with the hospital, open to all every day except Sunday, from 12 m. to 3 p. m. St. Jolm's Hospital, for children, {visiting days Mondays and Thursdays^ from 2 to 5 p. »?i.,) on I, bet. 20th and 21st sts. NW., is under the St. John's Sisterhood of the Episcopal Church. The Hospital will shortly occupy its new premises, on H, bet. 19th and 20th sts. NW. St. Ann's Infant Asylum, founded in 1863, is on the corner of K and 24th sts. I^VY., {visiting days Thursdays, from 2 to 5 p. m.) It is under the management of the Sisters of Charity, and for the children, under 5 years, of the poor. There is a lying-in hospital attached. St. Joseph's Male Orphan Asylum, founded in 1855, {visit- ing days Saturdays, from 2to o p. m.,) on H, bet. 9tli and 10th sts. NW., is under the care of the Sisters of the Holy Cross. The male children at St. Ann's, arriving at 5 j^ears of age, are sent here. The building previously belonged to the Washington City Orphan Asylum, and was purchased in 1866. St, Vincent's Female Orphan Asylum, founded in 1831, {visiting every day, except Saturday and Sunday, bet. 9 and 11 a. m.,) is on the SW. cor. of H and 10th sts. NW. It is under the care of the Sisters of Cliarity. To this a^e transferred the female children at St. Ann's arriving at 5 years of age. A branch of this asylum, St. Rose''s Orphan Home, estab- lished in 1871, and owned and cared for by the Sisters of Charity, is situated on G, bet. 20tli and 21st sts. NW. Here the children, 13 years of age, are sent and taught a trade. It is open at 'auj time, and sewing of all kinds for ladies and children is taken. The Epiphany Church Home is on H, bet. 14th and 15th, sts. W. CEMETERIES. 205 The Home for the Aged, under the Little Sisters of the Poor, is on the NW cor. of 3d and H sts. NE. CEMETERIES. Two squares, known as the Eastern and Western Burial- grounds, were originally allotted by the Government for the interment of the dead. The E. Burial-ground has been removed. The W. Burial-ground, known as the Holmead Cemetery, on 19th st. W., between S. and T. sts. N"., is still in use. The oldest gravestones still standing are in the IS". portions, ranging from 1807 to 1811. In this Cemetery are tha remains of the religious enthusiast, Lorenzo Dow. His grave is on the N. borders of the grounds, and about the centre from E. to W. A picket fence closely surrounds the slab, upon which is the inscription : "The repository of Lorenzo Dow, who was born in Coventry, Conn., Oct. 18, 1777. • Died February 2, 1834. Aged 56. A Christian is the highest style of a man : he is a slave to no sect ; takes no private road to Heaven; but looks through nature up to nature's God." The Cemetery is much neglected. Congressional (or Washington Parish) Cemetery, {open every day^ except Sunday^) is situated in the extreme SE. portion of the city, on tlie banks of the Anacostia, and is accessible from the Washington and Georgetown Street Rail- way, along E St. S. from 8th st. E., distant J m. The Cem- etery, laid out in 1807, originally comprised about 10 a., but subsequent extensions have increased it to 30 a. The name Congressional originated from the fact that a number of sites are set apart for the interment of members of Congress, in return for Government donations of land and money. The small freestone cenotaphs, to the memory of deceased mem- bers of Congress, form a conspicuous feature. The grounds are adorned with drives, walks, trees, shrubs, evergreens, and a large fountain. The oldest gi'aves lie N. of the lodge and a few feet S. of the iron railing, and are of William, Mary, and James Math- ers, 1804-5. Near the superintendent's lodge is tlie grave of Commodore Tingey, second in command to Commodore Decatur in the Aigerine war. In the NE . portion lies George CliJiton, of New York, Vice President of the United States, died in 1811. A few feet distant lies Elbridge Gerry, of Mass- 206 CEMETERIES. aehusett?, signer of the Declaration of Independence and Vice President of tlie United States, died in 1814. This monument was erected by act of Congress. Not far otF is the grave of Tobias Lear, private secretary and friend of Greorge Washington, died in 1816. ISTear by are the graves of Jolin Forsj^th, Secretary of State, and Commodore Mont- gomery. On tlie 1. of the walk is the monument of Pus-ma- ta-ha, a Choctaw chief, the white man's friend, who died at Washington in 1824. Further on is the monument to Wil- liam Wirt, Attorney General of the United States 1817-1829, died 1834. On the 1. of the carriage road, near the fountain, is the gi-ave of General Alexander Macomb, Commander-in- chief of the United States Armj^ wiio died 1841. This mon- ument is a handsome piece of workmanship, appropriately embellished and inscribed. A few feet off stands a broken shaft over the remains of Major General Jacob Brown, Com- mander-in-chief of the United States Army, died 1828. In the same vicinity is a monument to Abel Parker Up- shur, Secretary of the Na^y 1841, Secretary of State 1843, died 1844, and Captain Kennon, killed by the explosion of the great gun on board the United States frigate Princeton. A few paces off stands the collossal monument to Joseph Lovel, Surgeon General of the United States Army, died 1836. Near by is the monument erected to Major General George Gibson, U. S. A., Commissary General of Subsist- ence," 1861, and to Frederick Eogers, midshipman in the United States Na\y, drowned at Norfolk, Va., 1828, while making efforts to sdve Midshipmen Slidell and Harrison, his friends and companions in life and death. Among others are the Wainwright family, consisting of Commodore Richard Wainwright, Bvt. Lt. Col. R. Aucb- matty Wainwright, Bvt. Lt. Col. Robert DeWar, of the United States Navy. All of these lie in the Wainwright vault, in the southern extremity of the grounds. In the S. portion is the tomb of Alexander Dallas Bache, Superin- tendent of United States Coast Survey service. Also a mar- ble monument, representing a broken ship's mast, to George Mifflin Bache, of tlie brig Washington, and his associates, who perished at sea on September 3, 1846, in a hurricane. Not far distant is the monument erected to the young ladies killed by the arsenal explosion. The remains of George Watterson, one of the early Librarians of Congress, lie in the vault bearing his name. In luiother part are about 1 00 sites purchased by the Ma- sonic fraternit5^ This fraternity purchased the^e sites for the benefit of the craft wlio should die in indigent cu-cum- stances. DISTRICT GOVERNMENT. 207 The vaults a:id lots of somo of the oldest citizens of the District are also in this cemetery. The public vault, erected by Coni^ess, lies SE. of the entrance, about the centre of the cemetery. It is a massive structure, entered by an iron door, which leads through a passage to a second iron door. DISTKICT GOVERNMENT. The offices of the Mayor and Councils of the corporation of Washington, previous to the abolition of the municipal and the adoption of the territorial form of government, occupied the City Hall. That structure having since become the prop- erty of the United States, the various offices of the District of Columbia are at present occupying rented buildings. The Governor'' s Ofjfice is at the NW. corner of Pennsylva- nia av. and 17th st. NW. The Legislative Assembly holds its sessions in a building known a? Metzerott's Hall, on Pennsyl- vania av., between 9th and 10th sts. W., on the N. side. The Board of Public Works, Assessor, Comptroller, and other District officers, occupy a structiu-e known as Columbia Building, on 4J st. W., "W side, near Pennsylvania av. The Legislative Assembly, in 1873, appropriated $90,000 for the erection of a suitable building for the District officers. Con- gress also* appropriated $75,000, the amount due on the City Hall, for the same purpose. It is proposed to erect the Ter- ritorial Building on the unoccupied portion of Centre Market Space, on Pennsylvania av., between 7th and 9th sts. W. Pire Department — The earliest measures for the security of the city against fire were exceedingly primitive. House- keepers were required to have a certain number of buckets, with tlieir names, for each story. They were regularly in- spected. An old-style manual system was next adopted. In 1835 there were two fire engines, and in 1846 seven. In 1801 the National Government engaged the services of the Iliber- nia Steam Fire Engine, of Philadelphia, and brought the first steamer to Washington, as a means of protection for the im- mense quantities of Government stores. In 1864 the paid system went into operation. Tlie Government then owned three steam fii-e engines, and the corporation three, and one Hook and Ladder" Company. In 1869 the Government steamers were withdrawn. 208 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT. The entire force of the District now consists of 5 Steam Fire Engines, 1 Hoolv and Ladder Company, and 29 horses, (4 to each engine,) and 59 officers and men, (10 to eacli com- pany.) The administrative control is under a Board of Fire Commissioners, a Chief and Assistant Engineer, and Secre- tary. In connection with the service is a Fire Alarm Tele- graph, witli the Central Station at Police Headquarters. There are 72 alarm stations in various parts of the city. The buildings were erected by the city, and have every conveni- ence for the men, animals, and apparatus, and are arranged with special reference to dispatcli in responding to alarms. The engines are also of the most approved patterns. The foreman will show visitors every tiling of interest. The com- panies are located, No. 1, K St., bet. 16th and 17tli W. ; No. 2, D St., near 12th NW. ; No. 3, Capitol Hill, New Jersey av. SE. of the Capitol; No. 4, Virginia av., bet. 4J and 6th St. SW; No. 5, Georgetown, High street, near Bridge. Hook and Ladder, Massachusetts av., bet. 4th and 5th sts. Metropolitan Police— (Office on Louisiana av., bet. ^ and 6th St. AV.) This branch of the District service was estab- lished in 1861. In 1866 a police telegraph was constructed. The police force consists of 238 officers and men, with duties extending throughout the entire District, There are 8 pre- cincts. District JaiL— The present jail of the District of Columbia is a three-storied, white-washed brick structure, occupying a portion of public reservation No. 9, N. of the City Hall, and on the SW. corner of G and 4th sts. NW., completed about 1841. A neio jail^ more suitable to the necessities of the Dis- trict, is being erected on the N. portion of reservation No. 13, on the Anacostia, immediately N. of the Washington Asy- lum. The plan contemplates an outer range of one-storied buildings of solid masonry, forming the enclosm-e of the jail proper. The latter will be built of Seneca stone, brick, and iron, three stories high, with ranges of cells on each floor, 300 in all. Between the inner building and the outer walls there will be a space of 16 ft., which will be under the siu-veillance of the guards. The building will be 310 by 193 ft., and from the stone base to the main cornice 50 ft. high, to the ridge 68 ft., and to the top of the cupola 90 ft. On either end of the building will be ventilating shafts 86 ft. high, and, in conjunction with steam pipes under each tier of cells, will preserve a regular THE MARKETS. 209 temperature. The centre of the bnildhig will form a vesti- bule 16 ft. square, from the lower floor of which will spring the staircases leading to the tiers of prisoners' cells. The S. projection will embrace the warden's oflice, guard, and wit- ness rooms, while the N". will contain a chapel and kitclien. The basement will be devoted to laundry, bath-room, and culinary conveniences. The structure was designed by Adolf Clus.«, architect, and is being executed bv A. B. Mullett. THE MARKETS. The country around the ISTational Capital produces fine vegetables of all descriptions, and the Potomac river and Chesapeake Bay aflbrd not only fish and oysters unexcelled and in great quantities, but admirable facilities for supplying the Markets with the earlier produce of more southern lati- tudes. The best qualities of meats and the finest game, aquatic and field, are also offered for sale at cheaper rates than other large cities. There are four principal markets in the city, two already accommodated with very fine pei-ma- nent buildings. Strangers would find the markets a most interesting place for a visit. The largest is the Centre Market^ erected by the Washington Market Company in 1870, comprising three commodious brick structures — a central building and two wings — lengtli from E. to W., 410 ft., and which occupy the S. half of the square between 7th and 9th sts. W., on the S. side of Pennsylvania av., and accessible by horse cars on that av. and 7th and 9th. sts. ^larket every day. The Eastern Market,^ on Capitol Hill, at the junction of 7th St. E. and Nortli Carolina av., completed in 1873, is also a fine la^-ge brick structure. The Western Market^ on K between 20th and 21st sts. N\V., and the Koriliern Market^ between 6th and 7tli and O and P sts. NW., at present temporarily occupy sheds. Brick struc- tures of large dimensions are now in course of erection for tlieir accommodation. In the original plan of the city, 1791, there were three reservations for the E., W., and Centre Markets ; the latter, however, is the only one erected on the site originally set apart. 14. 210 PLACE?? OF HISTORICAL INTEREST. PLACES OF HISTOEICAL mTEREST. The residence of Gen. J. P. Van Xess still stands on what was known as Mansion Square, about G a., at the foot of 17th St. W., between B and C sts. X., and where the Tiber then emptied its waters into the Potomac. It was previously the residence of David Burns, one of the original proprietors of the site of Washington, who owned, by inheritance through several generations of Scottisli ancestors, what now consti- tute the linest portions of the city. Gen. Van Ness, a repre- sentative from New York, by liis marriage, about 1802, with Marcia Burns, sole heiress of tlie Burns estate, enlarged the buildings, erected green houses, planted trees and fruits, and made other improvements, then considered very superior. Tlie place was then one of tlie finest in the country. The square is enclosed by a brick wall, with a fine gateway and two lodges. Many of the venerable trees are still growing. The Van Ness warehouse, on the line of 17tli St., is still stand- ing, though very dilapidated. The Washington canal ran just S.'of it. "Attorney General William Wirt'occupied the fine old mansion, now the National Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphan Asylum, on G St., between 17th and 18th sts. W. The Old Capitol, uow converted into private residences, stands on the NW. corner of A and 1st sts. NE. Congress met here after the burning of the Capitol in 1814. During the war it was used as a political prison. Wirz, the prison keeper of Ander- sonville, was executed here. On North Carolina av., between 1st and 2d sts. SE., stands the venerable mansion of Duddington, owned by Daniel Car- roll, one of the original proprietors of the site of Wasliington, and one of the three commissioners appointed in 1791 to su- perintend the building of tlie city. SECTION V. ENVIRONS OF WASHINGTON. EORGETOWiS', ill the District of Columbia, pop- ulation in 1870, 11,384, lies NW. of Washington, upon the 1. or N. bank of the Potomac River, near the head of natural navigation. It is the port of entry of the District of Columbia. The city is separated from Washington by Rock creek, a small mountain stream, across which are three fine bridges, and, topographically, is exceedingly romantic, being situated on a series of hills, the highest of whicli are known as '•'Georgetown Heights." These overlook a vast sweep of country, including Washington and the broad bosom of the Potomac. Upon these heights are numerous beautiful villas. Before the foundation of the rival city adjacent it enjoyed considerable local importance, and carried on a brisk com- merce on the river and with the surrounding country. Its exports were chiefly tobacco, fioui-, and leather. Its trade continued to flourish as late as 1830, when 5,000 hhds. of to- bacco and 80,000 bbls. of flour Merejnspected here. In addi- tion to home commerce there was a trade with Europe. South America, and the West Indies. The city was laid out under autliority of an act of the Colonial Assembly of Maryland, passed in 1751. The proprietors were George Gordon and George Beall. In 1789 it was incorporated, and Robert Peter was chosen first mayor. Georgetown may be reached from Washington by two lines of Iwrsc-cars — the Metropolitan on F st., (Georgetown cars,) and the Washington and Georgetown on Pennsylvania av. For convenience, it would be well to go out by tlie for- mer and return by tlie latter. Arriving at Washington st., Georgetown, the visitor will leave the cars, and a short walk to the head of the street will bring him to the entrance to Oak Hill Cemetery^ {open every day^ except Sunday and holi- days^ from sunrise to sunset.) The old portion, 10 a., incor- porated by Congress in 1849, was the gift of VV. W. Corcoran, (211) 212 GEORGETOWN. and this was increased by subsequent purchases to about 30 a. It lies on the N". slope of Georgetown Heights, at the foot of which runs Rock creek. It is an extremely beautiful spot. The cemetery has an endowment of $120,000, from Mr. Cor- coran. It contains a line chapel and superintendent's lodge. All the graves are vaulted with bluestone. The Corcoran mausoleum stands in the NE. portion of the ground. On the W. is the memorial chapel of Mr. Linthicum. In the E. por- tion is the Van N^ess mausoleum, designed by Hadtield. It formerly stood on Mausoleum Square, H St., bet. 9th and 10th, "Washington, the burial-ground of the family of David Burns, one of the original proprietors of the site of AVashington. It is a copy of the Temple of Vesta, at Rome. It wsis erected by Gen. Van Ness, and contains the remains of the Burns family, Marcia Van Ness, and her husband. Among the prominent persons buried here are Chief Justice Chase, E. M. Stanton, Secretary of War, on the brow of the hill, on the E.; Gen. L. Reno, near the latter, and Gen. Plummer, in W. portion. The public vault is large, and of the time of Henry VIII. The grounds were formerly known as Parrott's woods. Returning to the same line of street-cars, and alighting on the r. side, at Market st., at the head of the street is the George- town High-Service Reservoir. The same point may be reached by turning to the r. outside the cemetery gate, and follow- ing Road st. to the corner of High. It consists of a domical reservoir, of brick, 120 ft. in diameter, with a capacity of 1,000,000 galls., and is fed from the Aqueduct mains at the bridge over Rock creek by 2 pumps. The surface-water is 215 ft. above tide and 70 ft. above the Distributing Reservoir. It supplies all that part of Georgetown over 100 ft. above tide. Descending the st. a short distance towards the cit}^ and following the track to Fayette st., on the opposite corner is the Convent of the Visitation^ io\xi\Ci^(\. in 1799, but not now open to visitors. The Academy., imder the care of the Sisters of the Visitation, was founded at the same time, and occupies the building on the N., rebuilt in 1873, and is open to visitors on Wednesdays and Saturdays after 12 7ioon. The entrance is by the door of the new building, where visitors will be re- ceived and conducted through the school. There are two de- partments : primary for girls from 6 to 12 years, and senior, for young ladies of all school ages. There is a fine philosoph- ical apparatus, chemical laboratory, and library. The Acade- my grounds comprise 40 a. Attached to the Convent is a vault containing the remains of Archbishop Neale, second Bishop of Baltimore, and founder of the institution, the daughter of iMadame Yturbide, and the daughter of Gen. Winfiel'd Scott, GEORGETOWN. 213 a religious of the order. This Convent is the oldest institution of the kind in the country. Descending Fayette st. two squares, the st. to the r. leads to Georgetown College^ {open every day except Sunday^) situ- ated W. of the city, founded in 1789, and is the oldest Roman Catholic College in the country. In 1815 it was raised by Congress to the rank of a University. It is under the care of the Jesuits. The original building is still standing on the S., and is flanked by two buildings of more modern construction. Boys of all ages are received and carried through an entire course of instruction. The library contains 30,000 volumes, amongst which are many rare and curious works. There are 100 volumes printed between 1460 and 1520, and three manu- scripts anterior to 1400, and others later. Among the earliest printed books are the works of St. Isi- dore, of Seville, 1472; a book of church music, 1630. The oldest Bible is 1485 ; a monastic prayer book, on vellum, XVth century; an illuminated prayer book, vellum, Xlllth centu- ry ; an illuminated catalogue of the members of the Society of Jesus in Mexico in 1744 ; Commentaries of Paul de Castro, 1483, with a chain; an English black-letter book, London, 1555; ^sop's Fables in Sanscrit; the works of Martin Lu- ther, 1564, printed 18 years after his death ; the jBollandus Lives of the Saints, commenced 1643. There are also a phi- losophical cabinet, chemical laboratory, and museum. In the latter is a valuable collection of coins and medals and relics of Commodore Decatur. The Astronomical Observatory is the small building, 400 yds. distant, on the W. Tlie Medical Department was es- tablished in 1851, and the Law in 1870. From the grounds S. of the buildings is a fine view. Eeturning towards the city, take the first open street leading down to the river. At the foot of the hill is the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. The first undertaking was known as the Potomac Company, chartered by Maryland in 1784. and com- pleted before 1800 around the Little and Great Falls. These efforts were followed by the charter, by Congress, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, of the present enterprise. Work was commenced in 1828. The object was the connection of tide-water on the Potomac with tlie head of navigation on the Ohio, a distance of 360 m. In 1841 the canal was opened to Cumberland, 182 m., at a cost of $13,000,000, of wliich Maryland subscribed $5,000,000, the United States 81,000,000, "Washington $1,000,000, and Georgetown, Alexandria, and Virginia each $250,000. Cumberland remains the terminus. The execution of the enterprise was a work of great difficulty. There are 75 locks of 100 ft. in length, 15 ft. in width, and 214 ANALOSTAN, OR MASON 's ISLAND. averaging 8 ft. lift; 11 aqueducts, 1 across the Monocac}^ river, consisting of 7 arches of 54 ft. span ; also 190 culverts of various climelisions, some sufiiciently spacious to admit of the passage of wagons. The canal is fed bj^ a number of dams across the Potomac, varymg from 500 to 800 ft. in length, and from 4 to 20 ft. elevation. The breadth of tlie canal is GO ft. for the first 60 m. above Georgetown, and for the remaining distance to Cumberland 50 ft., with a uniform deptli of G ft. The entii-e lift is about GOO ft. The aqueducts, locks, and culverts are constructed of stone laid in liydranlic cement. The tunnel through the " PaMq^aw Kidge * ' is 3,11 8 ft. in length and 24 ft. in diameter, with an elevation of 17 ft. clear of the surface of tlie water. Tlie canal connects with Rock creek. From tliis point a canal, now out of use or filled, extended across \Yasliington to the Anacostia. The canal to Cumberland opens the immensely valuable and rich coal sections of A\estern Maryland and West Virginia. The unfinished portion of the canal from Cumberland to Pitts- burg is 178 m. Tlie Alexandria Canal, incorporated by Congress in 1830, starts at Georgetown. It crosses the Potomac on a line Aqueduct 1,400 ft. long and 36 ft. above liigh water. The piers are embedded 17 ft. in tbe bottom of the rivei-, and are capable of resisting the immense weiglit of ice thrown against them by the current of the river in winter. A very interesting feature of the city are the coal whaii^es^ where the coal is transhipped into scliooners for transporta- tion to the ports on the Atlantic seaboard. Tlie total mer- chant vessels belonging to the port, including Washington, in 1872, was 412 — 25,656 tons — or sailing and steam vessels, barges and canal boats, 419 — 26,623 tons. The foreign trade is chiefly carried on through other ports. Georgetown is one of the largest shad and herring markets in the United States. Not withstanding the facilities afforded by the falls of the Potomac, the manufacturing interests of the citj'^ are small. A short walk along Bridge st. brings the visitor to the Bock-creek bridge^ connecting the two Cities. It consists of a 200-ft. span, with 20 ft. rise, the arch formed by two lateral courses of cast-iron pipe, 4 ft. internal diameter, and 1| in. in thickness. The arch is supported on massive abutments of sandstone. The pipes convey the water of the Aqueduct across the stream, and at the same time carry a street road and horse railway. Here the Pennsj'lvania av. street cars may be taken back to Washington. Analostan, or Mason's Island, is Ww. large tract in the Po- tomac river, opposite Georgetown. It contains 70 a., and ARLINGTON HOUSE AND NATIONAL CEMETERY. 215 was the residence of Gen. .Tolui 3I;isoii. Tlie mansion still stands at the S. end, 50 ft. above the river. Tiie now neg- lected grounds were also beantifally adorned. A causeway on the Virginia side and ferry-boat from Georgetown in former times allbrded communication witli the main land. Arlington House and National Cemetery. — {Open to visit- ors everij day,) Arlington House, from 1802, was the resi- dence of George Washington Parke Cnstis, the adopted son of Gen. Washington, and in late years of Gen. Robert E. Lee, till 18G1. It is on the Virginia shore of the Potomac, on the summit of a hill, 200 ft . above the river. It is about 4 m . from the Capitol, and about 1 m. from Georgetown, across the Aque- duct bridge. The view of Washington is without a rival. The centre building, 60 ft., and two wings, each 40 ft., give a frontage of 140 ft. In front is a portico 60 ft. long and 25 ft. deep. Tlie pediment rests on 8 doric columns, (6 in front) 5 ft. in diameter and 26 ft. high, built of brick, stuc- coed. The design was from drawings of the temple at Paes- tum, near Naples. On the S. are the gardens and conserva- tory. In the rear are the kitchens, slave quarters, and stables. In the mansion, wlien occupied by its former possessors, were rare and valuable 2^^i(^iiir€s^ including two by Van- dyke, one by Sir Godfrey Kneller, painted 1X07, represent- ing Col. Parke, a fine engraving of the Death of Chatliam, by Copely, and of Napier, the'inventor of tlie logarithms, presented by the Earl of Buchan, and addressed to "Mar- shal " General Washington, announcing tliat Louis XVI had created the General a Marshal of Franc.', that he might be of sufficient ranktocommand the veteran Count de Rochambeau ; also a Death of Wolfe, presented to Washington by West ; the Mount Vernon plate, bearing the arms and crest of Washing- ton. The bed and bedstead upon Avhich Washington, as first President, slept during liis wliole i)residency, and on which he breathed his last, on December 14, 1799; china having the names of the votes of the old Confederation ; a service also bearing the representation of the Order of the Cincinnati, and other relics from the home of Washington. These were taken away by the family. Of original pictures of Washington there were four at Ar- lington.' The earliest, and only one extant at that age, was a full size, three-quarter length portrait by Charles Wilson Peale, the elder, painted in 1772. representing the subject as a provincial colonel, in the colonial uniform ; the second was a half bust by Houdon, antique, full size, taken after the Re- volution; the third, a cabinet picture in ndief, by Madame de Bi-ienne, representing the heads of Washington and La- 216 FORT WHIPPLE. fayette, date about the same as Houdon, and the fourth, a profile likeness in craj'on, by Sharpless, in 1796. Of other originals is the equestrian picture by Trumbull, in 1790, in the City Hall. N. Y., and a crayon by Mr. Williams, from sittings in 1794, lost. There are three originals bj' Stuart, the head, a masterpiece, and bust, from wliicli many copies have been made, the full length for the Karquis of Lans- downe, and one for lSli&. Washington. Ceracci, the sculptor, about 1794, executed two busts in marble, one of Washington and the other of Hamilton. In 1795 both the elder and the younger Pcalsj had sittings. x\rtington House in its halcyon days was famed for its hospitality. Tlie last proprietor. Gen. Lee, cam^e in posses- sion tln-ough his wife, wlio was the daughter of ^Ir. Custis. Having gone over to the rebellion against the National Govern- ment, and become its military cliieftain, the estate, upwards of 1,000 a., was abandoned. In 1863 it was sold under the confiscation act, and in 1864 was taken possession of by the National Government. About 200 a. were set apart as a National Cemetery for the interment of deceased soldiers of the army. The Cemetery was formally established in 1867. In the rear and 1. of the mansion is an amjjhitheatre, capable of accommodating 5,000 persons, erected in 1873, and designed for use in tlie annual ceremonies observed on decoration "day. The grounds were laid out with special reference to the purposes in view. The bodies of nearly 16,000 soldiers, from many a battle-field in Virginia and tlie hospitals at the capital, here find a fitting resting place. The W. Cemetery is devoted to white, and the N. to'coloiecl troops. A short distance S. of mansion is a granite sarcojjJiagus, surmounted by cannon and balls, in 1866 placed over the grave of 2,111 unknown .soldiers gathered after the war from the fields of Bull Kun and the route to the Rappahannock. The carnage entrance is on the SE., through a freestone gateway of composite order, erected in 1873. On the frieze are suitable inscrip- tions, and over the arch "Here rest 15,585 of the 315,558 citizens who died in defence of our country from 1S61 to 1865." On th^ '\ of the road leading from tlie main gate- way towards the river is the once-famous Custis spring. In 1850 it was visited from the capital by thousands of resi- dents and strangers. The forest wliich sheltered its limpid waters was felled for the uses of the array during the re^ bellion. Fort Whipple, reached by the road to the r. soon after crossing the Georgetown Aqueduct, lies a short distance NW. of Arlington House. It is now a station for the instruction AQUEDUCT AND GREAT TALLS OF THE POTOMAC. 217 of officers and men in army signalling-. It was built during the rebellion, and constituted portion of the defenses cover- ing the Aqueduct and Long Bridge, and the intermediate Heights of Arlington. Then it ni(3unted 6 12-lt). Kapoleon guns and 4 12-lb. howitzers. The Aqueduct aud Great Palls of the Potomac— One of the most interesting excursions is the drive by the Aqueduct to the Great Falls of the Potomac. Ta])lf' of distances from the Navy-yard to the Ch^eat Falls: From the Navy-yard to the E. froiit of the Capitol, 1.78 m; to Rock-Creek Bridge, (N'o. 6,) 4.65 ; College-Pond Bridge, (Xo. 5,) 'tM', Foundry Branch, 5.94; Pipe Vault Dist. Res., 6.57; Influent Gate House, 7.03; Waste Weir, (No. 3,) 7.44; Gate House Rec. Res., 8.89 ; Wooden Bridge Rec. Res., 9.19 ; Brooks' Road, 9.74; Cabin John Bridge, (No. 4,) 12.33; Mountain-Spring Bridge, (No. 3,) 13.59; Culvert No. 12, 14.27; Road at Radclitr's, 15.37; Junction Road, 16.65; Bridge No. 2, 17.13; Bridge No. 1, 17.32; Overfall No. 1, 18; Waste Weir No. 1,18.23; Great Falls Gate House, 18.59. Entering Georgetown from Pennsylvania av, the Aque- duct may be reached by Bridge and Fayette sts., and new road to the Distributing Reservoir^ a distance of 2 m. The water surface of this reservoir is 33 a. ; capacity, 150,000,000 galls, at depth of 11 ft., and 300,000,000 gall, at 24 ft ; eleva- tion, 144 ft. above mean tide at the Navy-yard. From tliis i)oint the water is carried by iron mains into the city. (See Water Supply, p. 46.) _ The Aqueduct terminates here, the influent gate-house staiidiiig on the NW. corner. A 7-ft. Auxiliary Conduit connects the influent and affluent gate-houses on the N., which may be used independently of tiie reservoir. The Aqueduct consists of a cylindrical con- duit, of 9 ft. internal diameter, constructed of stone and brick, laid in hydraulic cement, and covered by an embank- ment or tunneled through the hills, and is carried across the sti-eams by means of magnificent bridges, and has a fall of 9 in. to the m. The capacity of the conduit, full is 80,000,000 galls, every 24 hrs. The present mains can ca..., 'AY 30,000,- 000 galls.; the consumption, however, is but 17,000,000. From the Distributing Reservoir is a beautiful drive, 2 m. on the embankment of the Aqueduct, to the Receiving Reser- voir. The scenery on all sides is romantic in the extreme. On thf> 1. is the Potomac and the Little Falls. 'J'he Receiv- ing Reservoir, a natural basin, formed by an embankment 65 ft. high, across Powder-Mill Creek, retains the water within the encircling arms of the surrounding hills. It has a sur- face area of 52 a., a greatest depth of 53 ft., and drains 40,000 218 AQUEDUCT AND GREAT FALLS Or TDE P0T03IAC. a. of the adjacent couiitiy. The Sluice Tower is in the S. end. A conduit extends around the S. side, connecting the Aqueduct, without passing- through the Eeceiving Keservoir. The capacity is 103,00^,000 galls. The XW. boundary of the District crosses the lleservoir just bej-ond the Sluice Tower. The heiglitof water in the Eeservoir is controlled l)y a, chan- nel cut in solid rock. The Aqueduct enters through a tunnel 800 ft. in length, and pierced through solid rock. Passing the lleceiving Reservoir, and resuming the em- bankment, a drive of 3 m., througli a picturesque countrj', brings us to tiie famous Cabin-John Bridge. Tins magnill- cent structure springs the cliasm of Cabin-John Creek at a heigiit of 101 ft. The bridge is erected of inmiense blocks of granite, with Seneca parapets and coping, and k>aps the ra- vine in a single arch of 220 ft., witli 57^ ft. rise from the springing line. Tlie bridge is 20 ft. wide, and its extn.'nie length 482 ft. It cost $237,000. This magnificent work of art is unequalled in the Iiistory of bridge building. It is the largest stone arch in the world ; the second being that of the Grovesner Bridge, with a span of 200 ft., v/hich crossL's the river Dee. The next in siz'^ is at Yiell Briode, across the AUier, in France, llie .span l)eing 183 ft. One mile above is Mountain- Sjjrinr/ Brook, crossed b}^ a beautiful clbpiical arch of masonry, 75 ft. span. The bridge is 200 ft. long, and cost $7G,C00. From this point the aqueduct is conducted tln-ough the mountain by means of 2 tuimels. About 3.} m. from the Great Falls a road leads around the hills. Before reaching the falls the scenery becomes exceed- ingly picturesque. Tlie river is divided into two channels, by Cupid's Bower and Bear islands, the latter the upper. At 'the falls the river again forms into two channels, by Conn's and Great Falls islands, the former the upper, and constitut- ing the Maryland and Virginia channels. Across thi» former is a dam of ^solid masonry, with gate-house and gates. Tiiis dam, should there be occasion, will be extended to the Vir- ginia side. The Government owns the water-right, h.avingO a. of ground. The dam is faced with massive guards of stone. The total water supply of the river is 1,196,019,511 galls, in 24 hrs. At this point the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal is car- ried over tlie Aqueduct. At the Great Falls the Potomac breaks through the moun- tain in a channel narrowing to 100 yds. in widtli, and bound- ed on the Virginia side by perpendicular rocks 70 ft. high. The water falls over a series of cascades, making a descent of 80 ft. in 1| m., the greatest single pitch being 40 ft. At a distance of 4 m. it widens, and its agitated waters quiet into an unbroken current. About 10 m. below, at the Little Falls^ AQUEDUCT AND GREAT FALLS OF THE POTOMAC. 219 about 3 m. above Georgetown, the stream makes a descent of 37 ft. in a series of cascades. Released from tlie mountains, after passing- Georgetown, the river widens into the lake-like sti'eam which we have seen in front of Washington. Tlie best view of the Falls is from tlie Virginia side, the ledges and rugged boulders appearing to better advantage. Mingling witlt the wild aspect of nature is the cedar, oak; willow, birch, and jessamine. Wild cherries and strawber- ries in season are found in great abundance. The most ven- omous reptiles abound. The scene in winter is enchanting, great masses of ice piled up on either side, and the rocks and trees frosted with spray, forming a charming surrounding for the boilinu- tojrent in the channel. !^>m THK GI4EAT FALLS Olt 'lUh POIOUAC. Experimental surveys for the supplj^'of the city with water were made by Major L'Enfant, under tlie direction of Presi- dent W^ashington. In 1850 surveys were made by Col. Hughes from tiie Great Falls and Ilock creek. The first ground on the Washington Aqueduct was broken by President Piei-ce on N"ov. 8, 1853, in the presence of a large assemblage of officials 220 COLUMBIAN UNIVERSITY. and civilians. The length of pipe line is 18 m. ; number of culverts, 26 m. ; tunnels 12, the longest 1,438 ft., total, 6,653 ft. ; bridges 6, viz, cut stone 4, and iron trusses 2. In George- town is a high-service reservoir 120 ft. in diameter. The work was commenced by Capt. M. C. Meigs, U. 8. Corps of En- gineers, and cost 63,500,000. Tlie aqueduct is tlie third in rank in the United States. Kalorama liesNW. of Washington on the r., after leaving the P-st. bridge across Rock creek. On the brow of the hi.l, about 5 min. "walk, is a small brick vault belonging to tiie Kalorama estate, in which are the remains of Henry Baldwin, of Pennsylvania, an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, died 1844 ; Abraham Baldwin, a senator from Georgia, died 1807 ; and George Bomford, Colonel of the U. S. Ordnance Corps, died 1848 ; the body of Commo- dore Decatur was also placed here. Meridian Hill lies outside the Boundary, N". of the Presi- dent's House. It was formerly the residence of Commodore Porter. It is now the site of a village of the same name. Columbian University, N. of the city, 5 mini walk from the end of 14th st. W., on the 1., reached by horse cars, was in- corporated as a college in 1821, and went into operation in 1822. In 1873 it was created a University. There is also a preparatory school. The Medical Department was organized ill 1824, and the following year lectures were commenced. The medical building in the city, on H st., near 14th W., was tlie gift of W. VV. Corcoran. The Law Department was es- tablished in 1826. It is one of the finest in the country. The building is on 5th st. W., between D and E sts. N. Tlie Uni- versity is under the government of a board of trustees and overs'^ers, the President of the United States and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court being honorary m(^mbers of the board. The regular course of American universities, classi- cal and scientific, is taught. The number iii all the depart- ments averages 300 students, from all parts of the United States. The property of the institution consists of 40 a. of ground, a college edifice, a preparatory school, and residences for the president and instructors ; total value, $400,000. Mr. Corcoran has pledged the Trinidad farm, 150 a., on the NE. boundary, valued at $250,000, if $100,003 additional be raised. $50,000 of the amount has been collected. Wayland Seminary, for the education of colored ministers, stands SW. of Columbian College. The building is being SOLDIERS* HOME. 221 erected b5^thc Baptist Home Missionary Society. When com- pleted it will aiTorJ line accommodations for tlie purposes iii view. Howard University {open to visitors every day^ except Sun- day) occupies a conspicuous site on the r. of the 7th-st. road, a short distance N. of the city. It was incorporated in 18G7, for the education of youth, without reference to sex or color, though the pupils are almost exclusively of the black race. The University Building^ facing the city, is the most promi- nent, it is 4 stories high, and contains philosophical, lecture and recitation rooms, library, museum, and offices. On the NE. is Miner Hall^ so named after Miss Miner, a lady who taught colored children during the days of slavery in the Dis- trict. This lady accumulated about $5,000 before her death, which she invested in ground in the city of Washington. This has since realized about $40,000, and now constitutes a fund in the hands of a board of trustees, the interest of wliich at present is paid over to the Xormal Department of the University. In Mner Hall are the ladies' dormitory and university dining-rooms. At each end are residences for professors. The Normal Building stands N. of Miner Hall, and is used for the normal classes and chapel services. To the N". of the main building is Clarke Hall, named after David Clarke, of Hartford, Conn., a gentlemen of large be- nevolence, ^nd a liberal friend to tlie University. These halls have accommodations for 300 students. There are also residences for instructors. Tlie grounds comprise 35 a. The value of property is about $600,000. About 1,000 ft. S. of the main building is the Medical Department and Freed- men's Hospital. The latter is rented and supported by the War Department. In the NE. part of the grounds is the Government Spring, which supplies the Capitol building and grounds. Soldiers' Home, {grounds open everyday, except Sunday,) lies about 3 m. N. of the Capitol. It is one of the most attractive drives around the city. It may be reached by pedestrians from the "toll-gate" on the 7th-st. road, which point is ac- cessible by the 7th-st. and Silver Spring horse cars; the latter being a continuation of the former, though a separate line. When in possession of the City of Mexico, the place having been taken by storm, $300,000, in lieu of pillage money, were levied by General Scott. Some of this went to hospitals for troops in Mexico, and extra issues of clothing. The balance, $118,791, was placed in the Treasmy of the United States, and through the efforts of General Scott was, in 1851, assigned 222 GRAVE OF MAJOR l'eNFANT. by Congress to the fomidinc^ of a Military Asylum, subsequent- ly more appropriately designated the Soldiers' Home. This fimcl was increased by turning into it all forfeitures, stop- pages, and fines adjudged against soldiers, and a tax of 25 cents, now 12 cents, a month on each private soldier of the regular army. The Home was for the benefit of the legulars and volunteers who served in Mexico, and no\^' for the privates of the regular army, they alone contributing for its support. Pensioners surrender their pensions while at the Home.. The original site consisted of the Riggs tract, about 200 a., and homestead. It has since been extended by purchases, in- cluding Hare wood, the seat of W. W. Corcoran. The Home now possesses about 500 a., and is charmingly laid out in drives, of which there are 7 ip., lakes, lawns, gardens, and meadows. The buildings are also very fine. Tlie main one, used as a dormitory, is of marble, Norman in design, and measures 200 ft. front. In the rear is a wing of 60 ft., used for a mess room. On the lawn are a flag-stalF and cannon. On the E. of the main building is an additional dormitory, the stables, conservator^', and fi-uit garden. On the W. is the Kiggs liomestead, now the hospital, and near by, on a line running N. and S., are tlie q:iarters of the governor and officers of the institution. S. of this is the surgeon's resi- dence. SE. of the main building is a beautiful Seneca stone chapel, finished in 1871, and gardener's lodge, and S. is the pedestal upon which a heroic statue, 10 ft. high, 'of General Scott, the father of the institution, by Launt '['hompson, will be erected early in the present year. From this point may be had one of the finest views of the capital. In the distance S. is the new hospital, a commodious brick structure, and the buildings close by are used by tlu; farmer. Th.e Home was first opened in 1851. and has accommodations for 400 inmates. The soldiers keep the roads in order and perform police duty. There are representatives of the war of 1812, the Mexican and the Indian wars, and Rebellion. Tlii' Home was the favorite summer residence of Presidents Pierce, Buchanan, and Lincoln. Secretaries Floyd, JoiY. Davis, Stanton, and Schofield have also resided here during the summer months. Grave of Major Peter Charles L'Enfant, the designer of the plan of Washington, at Given Hill, the country seat of Geoi-ge "VV. Riggs, on the early manor of Chillam Castle, now Prince George's coimty, Maryland, is about 7 m. NE. of Washington. The grave is in the garden, near the house, in which was the burial-ground of the Digges family, the previous proprietors of the estate. The remains of the latter have been removed. The grave is without a marked stone. ROCK-CREEK CHURCH. 223 'Sluya- L'Eufant was born in France about 1755. He was a subordinate officer in the Frencli service. In 1778 lie was made a captain of enoineers in the Continental arni.y. His gallantry and ability, displayed especially at Savannah, at- tracted the attention of Washington. In 1783 he was pro- moted to major. In IMarch, 179L, he was ordered to George- town to join Mr.Ellicott, the chief surveyor, with instructions ••'to draw tlie site of the federal town and buildings." IsTot sharing in the practical views of the commissioners, who desired copies of his plan for circulation, as an inducement to purchasers of lots, a controversy sprung up. which was aggravated by some high-handed measures, chietly an attempt to demolish the residence of Mr. Carroll, one of the commis- sioners, Miiich interfered with the execution of his plan on the ground. These resulted in his dismissal, after a brief service of one year. In 1794 he was employed on Fort Mif- flin, below Philadelphia. It is said he was otFered, in 1812, a professorship of engineers at West Point. The last days of his life were spent around Washington. He found a home on the farm of Mr. Digges, and died in the summer of 1825, at the advanced age of 70 years. His remains still moulder beneath the sod where the kind hand of charity laid them. Kock-Oreek Ohurcliand Gemeterj.— {Church services, Epis- cojxd, ever// Sabbath at 11 a. w., and Cemetery open ever// day^ excep)t Simday.) — The cemetery lies contiguous to the Sol- diers' Home on the X., and is eas,y of access from the ho^;,se cars on the 7th-st. road. It comprises about one-half of the (jlebe, 103 a., the gift of John Bradford, about 1710. The church, which lies on the W., properly St. Paul's Ei)iseopal Church, Ilock-creek Parish, was erected in 1719, rebuilt in 1775, and remodeled in 1868. The bricks were imported from England. The main walls are the same as erected in 1719. The bible used is an Oxford edition of 1727. Immediately around the church are a numljcr of old graves, marlced by rude stones, and over them stands a venerable oak, the out- spreading branches of which cover an area of 126 ft. in diam- eter. T])e oldest monuments are E. of the church, of the Gramphin family, 1775. In this cemetery is the grave of Pe- ter Force, with a fine monument. National Military Cemetery, {open from sunrise to sunset.) lies N. of and adjoins the Soldiers'' Home, and E. of Kock- Creek Cemetery. It was established in 1861, and contains 5,424 interments : known 5145, unknown 279, and Conf;*der- ates 271. There are a fine keeper's lodge and conservatory. Adjoining, on the N., is the Cemetery of the Soldiers' Home. 224 BLADENSBURG. Glenwood Cemetery, [open every day^ except Sunday^) 1^ ni. N". of the Capitol, is situated at the head of Lincohi av., and nvAj he reached from the Columhisi st. railway at N. Capi- tol St., distance 1 m., or from the Soldiers' Home 1^ m. Tiu; cemetery was incorporated in 1854, and contains 90 a. The grounds are beautifully laid out in drives and walks.. Tiio public vault is a fine structure. Joseph llarbau^'li, a descend- ant of contractor efnployed by the city commissioners, 1792, and Amos Kendall, Postmaster General 1835 '40, are burieil here. Outside tlie gateway are Prospect Hill Cemetery, 17 a., incorporated in 1860, and St. Mary''s (Roman Catliolic Church) Burying Ground, 3 a. Bladensburg, a post-village of Prince George's co., Md., lies G m. XE. of "Washington, on the Baltimore railroad and on the Baltimore turnpike. The Anacostia flows b)^ the vil- lage. It was founded about 1750, and named after ]\[artin Blanden, one of the I^ords' Commissioners of Trade and Plantations. Before the Revolution it was a place of some commercial and agricultural importance. In those days the Anacostia admitted of successful navigation to the town. Over the stream was the bridge, and W. the field of the dis- astrous battle of August 24, 1814, which opened Washington to the enemy, and gave the name of Bladensburg a place in history. On the hill stood tlie artillery, and on the open groimd was the spot bravely defended by Commodore Bar- ney and his gallant soldiers and marines. About 1 m. from the village, on the turnpike on the 1., crossing a small stream and ravine, and enclosed by two hills, that on the E. concealing it from the turnpike, is a secluded spot, rendered notorious as the "duelling ground." The District line runs through the valley, thus enabling parties from the District and Virginia to pass into ^Maryland. The most painful of all duels fouglit here was that between Com- modores Decatur, the hero of the Algerine war, and Barron, in 1820. "I hope," said Barron, •* that Ave shall be better friends in the next world than in this." "Sir," said Deca- tur, coolly, "I have never been your enemy." When' both were writhing in agony, Barron gasped, "Would to God I had known this yesterday." Decatur's wound was mortal. Many other duels were fought here, but not of late years. The duel between Henry Clay and John Randolph of Roan- oke, in 1820, took place on the Virginia shore of the Potomac river, near"Washington. Near Bladensbu"rg, a short distance from the turnpike, stood the family mansion of George Calvert, the lineal des- cendant of the Baron of Baltimore. DEAF AND DUMB ASYLUM. 225 Columbia Institution for the Deaf and Dumb and National Deaf- Mute College, (ope/i every daij^ except Sundaj/,) NE. of the city, entrance to grounds at N. end of 7tli st. E., is con- veniently accessible from the Columbia horse railroad. The grounds of the institution comprise the estate known as "Ken- dall Green," previously the property and home of Amos Ken- dall, Postmaster General of the United States 1835-' 40. The first portion occupied comprised bat a few acres and a small building, presented to the institution by Mr. Kendall. Sub- sequently, 25 acres were purchased, and in 1872 the entire estate of 100 acres. The grounds and buildings were vested in the United States as trustee. The institution was incorporated in the year 1857, and has since been sustained by Congress as the institution where Government beneficiaries, viz, deaf-mute children of the Dis- trict of Columbia, and of the army and navy, should receive free education. A collegiate department was organized in 1864 by Congress, and is named the National Deaf-Mute Col- lege. Both are open to both sexes. The main central building, dedicated in 1871, was the gift of the Government. It is a fine specimen of the pointed Gothic architecture of the 14th century. It is 216 by 76 ft., and is faced on all sides with Connecticut brown-stone, in- terspersed with courses of white Ohio sandstone, and cov- ered with roofs of red and blue slate, laid in patterns and courses. The main entrance is under a recessed porch, formed by three pointed arches of alternate brown and white sandstone blocks, supported by double sets of dwarf columns of highly polished Scotch granite, with brown-stone bases and carved white sandstone capitals. This porch is paved with white and black marble tiles, and surmounted by an angular pedi- ment containing a carved half-relief figure of the Ameri- can eagle, with the stars and stripes on the shield over its breast.' From this porch leads a small vestibule at either end into the main hall, or chapel, a room 56 ft. square and 38 ft. high, with a paneled ceiling of light and dark colored woofl, with massive brackets, cornice, and panel mouldings, the walls be- ing frescoed in delicate tints in plain panels. The walls, to about 8 ft. from the floor, are protected by a paneled wain- scot, painted in strong party colors, with the pulpit, platform, and front, and folding-doors to match. The room is lighted by ten large stained-glass windows. Adjoining on the E., and separated from the chapel by eight sliding doors 15 ft. high and 27 ft. wide, is the lecture room. Over tliQ sliding doors is a solid white sandstone arch 15 226 MOUNT OLIVET CEMETERY. of 27 ft. span, sprinj.Ting*from lic^ht stone columns with carved capitals. The lectirre room is about 30 by 40 ft. in size, with a raised floor. The remainder of tlie E. wing on this floor is occupied by a large dining-hall, or refectory, for the pupils of the primary department, with its corridors and stairs ; and with Icitohens, bakery, and store-rooms in tlie basement below, and large dormitories in the attic above. The W. wing contains a large dining-hall for the students of the college, with its pantries and store-rooms. In the liall of this wing a stairway atibrds access to tlie tower. In the basement under this wing is an extensive laundry, steam- drying rooms, and store-rooms, while the basement under the chapel contains the fuel and boiler rooms. In the chapel is a line plaster cast of Abbe de I'Epee, taken from his tomb in the old churcli of Saint Koch, Paris ; also one of Abbe Sicard. Tlie former, about tlie year 1760, de- veloped and applied the system of communication for deaf mutes by means of natural signs. xVbbe Sicard subsequently perfected the system. There is also a portrait of the Rev. Thomas H. Gallaudet, formerly principal of the American Asylum at Hartford, Connecticut. That gentleman was sent abroad to acquire the system of instruction by natural signs. He chose the French system, now in use by the Institution and College, and also generally throughout the United States. The E. building is occujjied by the primary department, and contains several school rooms, chapel, lil^rarj-, recei)tioii parlor, private rooms of instructoivs, and dormitory for l)oys, and another in a remote part of the building for girls. The IV. building is used by the College. In the rear and W. of the main centml building is the iinished wingof a dormitory for College students. The value of the property is $350,000. Mount Olivet Cemetery {open every day) lies on the 1. of the Columbia turnpike, ^ m. X. of the E. terminus of the Columbia hoise railway. It comprises 70 a. It was incor- porated in 18G2, in the names of the parish priests of the four Roman Catholic churches of Washington. The grounds are well laid out, and shaded with oak and evergreens. Father Matthews, one of the earliest priests who arrived in the city after its occupation by the Government, is buried here, also Lieut. Col. Garesche, A. A. G. to General Rose- cranz, killed at ^Murfreesboro, 1862 ; Mrs. Surratt, executed for eoniplicity in the assassination of President Lincoln ; and Wirz, the keeper of the Andersonville prison pen for na- tional soldiers during the rebellion, 1861-'G5, an4 executed in Washington at its close. The entrance to the cemetery GOVERNMENT HOSPITAL FOR THE INSANE. 227 is at the SE. corner on the Cohimbla turnpike, where there is a neat superintendent's residence. Graceland Cemetery [open from simrise to sunset) is situated immediately outside tlie E. limits of the city, at the terminus of the Columbia horse railway. Tlie cemetery was opened in 1872, and comprises about 40 a. Eeform School of the District of Columbia occupies a com- manding site on the S. side of the Washington and Baltimore turnpike, 2 m. fi-om the E. terminus of the Columbia horse railway. The school, which is for boys only, was established bj^ Congress in 1S6G, and is under the supervision of the Department of Justice. It was first located on the Govern- ment farm, on the Aqueduct road, 4 m. above Georgetown, but owing to the unhealthiness of that section was, in 1871, removed to its present situation. The farm comprises 150 a. Tlie buildings stand on Lincoln's Hill, so-called from the fort of that name in the defenses of Washington during the rebellion, and which crowned the hill. They are 230 ft. above the Anacostia, which runs in the rear, and command a view of four railroads, portions of ^Vashington, the National Insane Asylum, the Soldiers' Homo, Bladeiisburg, the ]Mary- land State Agricultural School, and a vast sweep of country into iMarylantl and Virginia. The main building is occupied by the superintendent, boys' dining room, chapel, library, and reflecting room. The reception room for strangers is on the 1. of the main entrance. On either side of the main building are two detached wings, occupied by the assistants, and as school and dormitories. The boys divide their time in the scliool and shops. The boys are kept till i-eformed or their majority. The buildings and grounds will be greatly improved. Zoological Society was incorpoi-ated in 1870, with authority to import animals free of duty, and granting the free use of water from the Aqueduct. The site secured for the piu-pose comprises 20 a., lies about \ m. SE. of the E. terminus of the Columbia horse railway^ and extends to the Anacostia. On tlie ground is Gibson's spring, which will be converted into fish ponds. During the rebellion, 18Gl-'65, a pipe from this spring supplied the cavalry and infantry camps estab- lished in the adjacent valley and on the neigliboring hills. Government Hospital for the Insane, {visiting days, Wednes- days., from '2 to G p. m.) This institution, oil the S. bank of 228 ALEXANDRIA. the Anacostia, is accessible from the I^Tavy-yard terminus of the Pennsylvania av. street cars^ across the bridge at the foot of 11th St. E., and by the high road ascending the hill towards the r., which passes the gate. The village at the S. end of the bridge is known as Uniontown. The distance from the horse cars to the Asylum is about 2 m. The institution is for the use of the army and na^y and District of Columbia, and embraces indigent and independent patients. The gen- eral supervision is inider the Secretarj'' of the Interior, and it is supported by the National Government. The home tract, 185 a., is inclosed by a wall 9 ft. high. Subsequent additions, however, liave increased the estate to 419 a., which is cultivated for the benefit of the institution, and which fur- nishes occupation for many of the patients. The commodious structure is of brick, occupies the crest of the range of hills overlooking the mouth of tlie Anacostia, and consists of a centre, with connecting ranges and receding wings, with buttresses, iron window hoods, and an embattled parapet. The centre is four stories, and the wings three and four stories. The building is 750 ft. long. There are accommo- dations for 550 patients, tliough the number generally ex- ceeds 600. The W. wing is devoted to males and the E. to females. The centre contains the residence of the superin- tendent and stair officers, dispensary, and cliapel. There are six billiard tables for patients. In the basement are the kitchen, store-rooms, &c. There are two buildings in the rear for colored patients; also gas works, machine shops, barn, and stables. The institution was opened in 1855. Prior to that time the insane under the care of the Govern- ment were sent to Baltimore. Alexandria. — This city, originally called Bellhaven, stands in Virginia, on the r. bank of the Potomac river, at the con- fluence of that stream and Hunting Creek, 7 m. S. of Wash- ington. The boats of tlie Washington and Alexandria ferry, from the foot of 7th street W., reached by liorse cars, run every liour from 6 a. m. to 7 p. m., on Sunday from 9 a. m. Single fare 15 cts.. round trip 25 cts. The steam cars leave at the same intervals from 6 a. m. to 8 p. m. from the depot on Gth St., S. of Pennsylvania av. The city is picturesquely situated on the side of a range of low hills, and is surrounded by a fertile and well-cultivated countr3^ The town was founded in 1748. In 1755 five colonial governors met liore in connection with Braddock's expedition, which started here. In the early colonial days it was the rival of Baltimore in commerce, but superior advantages and other facilities at- tractive of trade soon advanced the metropolis of Maryland ALEXANDRIA. 229 beyond the successful rivaliy of the quaint Virginia town on tlie Potomac. During the Revolution it was a point of great strategic im- portance. The British General Gage, in 1776, from Pitts- burg, in co-operation witli Earl Dunmore's fleet fi'om the sea, planned an attack on the town, designing, by liolding this position, to cut ofl' communication between the N. and S. armies. Tlie expedition, however, was not carried out. Washington always tooli a great interest in the welfare of tlie place. Among otlicr evidences of this affection he be- queathed £1,000 for the beneflt of a free school here. During the invasion of tlie British, on Aug. 28, 1814, after Fort Warburton, (Washington,) below, had been blown up and abandoned without firmg a gun, the town surrendered to the British squadron. Five days after the enemy's vessels left with 1G,000 bbls. of flour, 1,000 hhds. of tobacco, and other property, including 3 ships and some river craft. The city and county were included in the original survey of the District of Columbia, but in 1846, with all that part on the W. side of the Potomac, was retroceded to Virginia. About 1 m. SE. of the city, on the point of a small pen- insula formed by the junction of Hunting creek and the Potomac, is the initial point oi the original boundaries of the District of Columbia. In the court of the Mansion House, on Fairfax st., is an old structure known as Washington'' s Headquarters^ having been occupied, it is said, by the General when in Alexandria. At the intersection of Washington and Cameron sts. is Christ Episcopal Churchy commenced in 1765 and finished in 1773, built of bricks imported from England. The interior has been renovated of late years ; thougii some of the wood-work about the chancel is old. The principal interest is associated with the fact that Washington was a member of the vestry of this church. His pew was Xo. 59, on the 1. of the 1. aisle. A little back is pew No. 46, used by Robert E. Lee, General of the Confederate forces, who came here from Arlington to worship. Marble tablets on the 1. and r. of the chancel have been placed in the walls to their memory. In the church- yard the oldest tombstone is 1771. The city hall, market- house, and masonic htill occupy a fine building. Near the city is a National Cemetery^ which contains the remains of 3,635 soldiers of the rebellion. A branch of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal connects the city with Georgetown. The river in front is 1 m. wide. The shipping of the place amounts to about 182 vessels; sail, steam, and unrigged, 8,210 tons. The principal exports are tobacco, corn, and coal. It also has railroad communication 230 MOUNT VERNON. with the N. and S. A new line, to connect witli the Balti- more and Ohio Kailroad at Bladensbur^, is now being built, and will cross the Potomac at this point. The population is 13,570. Mount Vemon, steamer daihj^ except Sunday^ at 10 a. m., ,^^ ^^ -=^ from the foot of 7th st. W., readied ^^'^^^^^^'^'^^P^^^^ hy horse-cars^ fare $1.50 round trip, j^ to include admission to the grounds. ^ 3^-^^ Distance, 15 m. Eeturn 4 p. m. Leaving the wharf, the boat runs ^^ close to the shore, and along the ^ \ Arsenal grounds, at the foot of ""' which the Anacostia enters the Po- tomac. Tlie village on the r. is Uniontown, and on the hill is the National Insane Asylum. On the 1. is the Xavy Yard. On the S. point of the river is Giesboro' . Dur- ing the rebellion a large number of cavalry horses were kept here for the supply of the army. During a stampede on one occasion over 1000 were drowned in the river. The steamer now directs her course to- wards Alexandria^ 6 m. below. Af- ter leaving Alexandria, the steamer passes Jones's point on the r. A lighthouse stands on the point at d the location of the initial stone of the THE MANSION. bouudarlcs of the District, planted in 1791. The lines extend NE. and XW. Hunting creek here enters the Potomac. The steamer next touches at Foii Foote, an earthwork on the ]Maryland shore. Broad creek enters below. The next landing is at Fort Washington, on the same side. This is an old work, mounting guns in casemate and barbette. On the high ground opposite the first view of the home of Washington may be had. The road from the wharf leads to the vaidt Avithin which is the marble sarcophagus containing the remains of General George Washington. By the side is another with the simple inscrip- tion, Martha^ the consort of Washington^ who died May 21, 1801, aged 71 years. The obelisk on the r. approaching is to Bushrod Washington, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, a nephew of General Washington, and to whom Mount Vernon was bequeathed, died 1821). That on the 1. is to John Ausfustine AVashiuirton, to whom Mount MOUNT VERNON. 231 Veniou was beqiieathed by Jud^e Biisluod Washinj^ton, died 1832. The path to the r. leads towards tiie mansion. On the 1. is tlie vault in whicli the remains of Washington were first placed. 'J'iie MansioniYonU NW., the rear looking toward the river. It is of wood, cut in imitation of stone, aiid 9G ft. in length, snnnoinitcd b}' a cupola. Tlie centre was built by Lawrence Washington, brother to the General ; the wings were added by the General. It is named after Admiral Vernon, in whose expedition Lawa-ence Washington served. The house and grounds, 6 a., as far as practicable, are as left by Washing- ton. The Mount Vernon Ladies^ Association of the Union, incor- poi-ated in 185G, pm-chased the mansion and contiguous grounds. In the iiall is the key to the Bastile, presented to Washing- ton by Lafayette after the destruc- tion of tliat French prison, 1789. In the E. jmrlor are intei-esting relics of Washington — a dress, sword, spy-glass, water buclvets, tripod. In the dining hall are portraits of Washington in 178G, a copy from Trumbull, and a copy from Stuart, 1795. The mantel was carved in Italy and presented. In this room is the great painting of Washington before Yorktown., by Rembrandt Pea'le. He is repre- sented as accompanied by Generals Lafayette, Hamilton, Knox, Lin- coln, and Rocliambeau, and giving orders to commence the enti-ench- ments before Yorktown. In the W, parlor is an old painting repre- senting the attaclf on Cartliagena, Admiral Vernon commanding, 1741, and Wasliington's holsters and camp equipage, also a globe. In the second story^ at the lK>ad of the stairs, is Lafaijette''s room. The room in whicli Waslo- ington died, December 14, 1799, is at the S. end of the build- ing on this floor. It is a small apartment. The bed is that on which he rested. There is a fine view of the surround- ing country from the cupola. On the r. of the mansion facing the lawn are the servants' hall, gardener's lodge, a modern building, and the spinning and weaving house. On GRAVE OF WASHINGTON. 232 DEFENSES Ol' WASHINGTON. the same side is the garden laid out by Washino^on. On the X. side are conservatories which replaced tlie old ones con- sumed by lire. The ruins of the old servants' quarters are near bj'. On the opposite side of the lawn are tlie family kitchen, butler's house, smoke house, and laundry, and in the rear of all the stables. On tlie lawn are several ash and and a magnolia tree planted b}^ "Washington. Defenses of Washington.— The inauguration of actual hos- tilities by the bombardment of Fort Sumter, April 12, 18, 18G1, -warned the National Government of the necessity of measures of protection. One of the first thoughts was the security of the Nation's Capital. The hastily-im])rovised first defensive preparations, after some squeamish hesitation about invading a State, were seconded by occupying the S. shore of the Potomac, and holding the debouches into Virginia. This was necessitated by the proximity of Arlington Heights, from which the enemy's artillery could shell the citJ^ On the night of May 23, 186i, the army, in three columns, crossed the Potomac, one, under Major Wood, by the Georgetown Aque- duct. ; another, under Major (General) Heintzelman, by the Long Bridge ; and the tliird. under Colonel Ellswoith, by water to Alexandria. Fort Corcoran, a tete-de-poai., was commenced before daylight, and, with its auxiliary works. Forts Bennett and Haggerty and rifle trenches, ai-ound the head of the Aqueduct, Forts Kuin'on, on the lowland — atete- de-pont — and Albany, on Arlington Heights, covering otir debouches fi-om the Long Bridge, and Fort Ellsworth, on Shuter's Hill, back of Alexandria, formed tlie basis of the line S. of the Potomac. By the time of the advance of McDowell's army, seven weeks, these works were nearly completed. The Bull Run disaster made it apparent that a protracted WHY was inevitable. The Heights of Arlington were effect- ively fortitied by intermediate works, and, with Fort Rmi- yon, formed a '''' Qouronne^^'' covering the bridge' and lieights. These works were preliminary and auxiliary to that line of impregnable fortifications which later encircled the Capital. The system of works, constituting and appropriately desig- nated the Defenses of Washingfon, were divided into four groups. 1. Those S. of the Potomac^ commencing with Foft Lyon, below Alexandria, and terminating with Fort De- Kalb, (Strong.) opposite Georgetown. 2. Those of the Chain Bridge. 3. Tliose N. of the Potomac, between that river and the Anacostia. commencing with Fort Stunner and ter- minating with Fort Lincoln. 4. Those S. of the Anacostia., commencing with Fort Mahan and terminating with Fort DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON. 233 Greble, neai-ly opposite Alexandria. The perimeter, from Fort Lyon to Fort Greble, was 33 m., and, including- the in- terval across the Potomac, betAveen Greble and I^yon, a total of 37 m. At the close of hostilities, in April, 18G5, the De- fenses consisted of G8 inclosed forts and batteries and em- placements, for 1,120 guns, 807 of which, and 98 mortars, were actually mounted t 93 unarmed l)atteries for field guns, having- 401 emplacements, and 20 m. of rifle-trenches, and 3 blockhouses. There were also 32 m. of specially-constructed military roads. In 1864 the garrisons S. of the Potomac consisted of one division, under General DeKussy, four brigades, under Colonels Tidball, Tannatt, Abbott, and Schi'rmer — 11,011 men ; N^. of the Potomac, one division, under Lieutenant Colonel Haskin, aid-de-camp, with three brigades, under Colonels Moms, Gibson, and Piper — 18,863 men. To pre- vent a sudden dash, the minor roads were obstructed by abattis and stockades. The fords of the Potomac above and the S. front were picketed with cavalry. An infantry divis- ion lay towards Bull Run, and infantry pickets were stationed on the jST. front. A provost guard of 1,776 men, under General Martindale, were on duty in Washington, and 1,090 men, under General Slough, in Alexandria. At the artillery depot at Camp Barry were 2,000 men and 17 batteries. The garrisons varied in numbers, yet tlie over-sensitiveness of the Government, respecting the safety of the Capital, con- stantly required the presence of a large force. The exi2:en- cies of the service in the field, however, on several occasions necessitated a reduction. The ertbrts of Gen. Grant, in 1864, to overwhelm Lee had caused the withdrawal of the well-trained artillerists, and their places were filled by new levies. As an ofiset to the vigorous movements of the Army of the Potomac, Early made his demonstration upon Washington. A brisk engage- ment took place at Rockville, 16 m. from Washington. On July 11, with 20,000 men, he appeared before Fort Stevens, on the 7th-st. road. The pickets retired, and the guns of Fort Stevens, Slocum, and DeRussy opened and checked the enemy, who retired tlie following night. The ruins of the now dismantled and deserted Defenses of Washington may yet be seen on almost every eminence in the vicinitj' of the city. During their use they accom])lished an important work. Tliey saved the nation from further ca- lamities after Bull Run, "when the enemy was in sight on Munson Hill, and from attack after the failures of McClel- lan's campaign against Richmond, and the retreat of Pope, in 1862. It is to be hoped the hand of fratricidal strife may never airain revive the sad work. SECTION YI. HISTORi^ OF WASHINGTON. I HE first attempt to explore the Chesapeake and its tributaries was made in 1608, by- Captain John Smith, from the Jamestown settlement. He left an interesting narrative of his discoveries. He speaks of the "Patawomeke " as G or 7 m. in breadth, and navigable 143 m. The Indian name was Cohongu- rotoii, or river of swans. The shores of the great baj^ and river had a large aboriginal population, not less than forty tribes, members of the numerous and warlike Algonquin family, who lived by fishing, the cultivation of maize, and warring upon their neighbors. The point of the tongue of land now occupied by the Arsenal was the seat of the council fire. The Manahoacks occupied the lands between the rivers, but about 1G60, after a severe war with the Powhatans, were overcome, and fled to the West, where they joined the Tus- caroras. In 1G34. Henry Fleet, with a party of Calvert's settlers, vis- ited tbe falls of the Potomac. In 1GG3, a tract of land 400 a., called Room, (Rome,) was laid out for Francis Pope, gentle- man, on the east side of the Anacostian river, and to the mouth of the Tiber. Another tract, of 500 a., for Captain Robert Troop, called Scotland Yard, was laid out adjoining on the same date. The lands of the western portion of the city, called ''The Widow's Mite," 600 a., were laid out in 1681 for William Langworth. All were in Charles county, province of Maryland. In 1790-'91, Daniel Carroll owned the lands on the Ana- costia, Notley Young, in tlie forks of the river and to the north wai-fl, and David Burns on the west, towards George- town. On the bank of the river, east of the Observatory, was a settlement called Hamburg, previously Fimkstown. On the Anacostia, a short distance above the Arsenal, was CarroUsburg. The arable lands were tilled, and produced wheat, tobacco, and maize. On April 30, 1783, nineteen da5^s after the proclamation of (234) HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 2o5 a cessation of hostilities between the late British Colonies in North America iiad the mother country, tlie subject of a per- manent capital for the general tyovernment of the United States of America was incidentally alluded to in Congress. In March, 17S3, tiie legislature of New York offered to cede the town of Kingston as a place of permanent meeting. Shortly after, Maryland tendered Annapolis for the same purpose ; also $180,090 if selected. A proposition by a prominent gentleman was the location of the capital, for a term of thirteen years, at some of the growing western settlements, such as Detroit, Louisville, Kaskaskia, St. Vincent's, and Sandusky; stating that '*an amazing value would be added to that important territory ; " that it would ''accelerate the rapidity of its settlement and population," and at about twelve cents an acre would extin- guish the national debt ; that Congress should assume plen- ary j urisdiction over a compass of twenty miles square ; sliould form a government '*on the most perfect plan of modern re- fmement ; " in place of certificates, should award the lands in the vicinity "to those brave officers and men wlio served in the late glorious war." These, Spartan-like, it was expected, would form "an impregnable bulwark against the natives," or any otlier dangers. Williamsburg, tlie old capital of Vir- ginia, was offered at the same time. On October 6, 1783, Congress voted upon the selection of a State, as they existed at that time, beginning with jSTew Hampshire, and proceeding in order southward. New Jersey and Maryland received the higliest number of votes, but no choice was made. The next day, on a resolution by Eldridge Gerry, the location of the "Federal City " was voted on or near the falls of the Delaware, near Trenton, and a commit- tee of five was appointed to examine the locality and report. On October 21 following, the erection of buildings was author- ized at or near the lower falls of the Potomac or Georgetown, and a committee was appointed to examine and report on that site. Two localities were now provided for, and meanwhile Congress was to meet alternately at Trenton and Annapolis. The inconvenience of two capitals was soon demonstrated. The Delaware committee reported favorably, and that for the Potomac unfavorably on that location, though they thought better of a site above Georgetown, or IJ m. below, at Funks- town. On December 20, 1784, it was decided inexpedient to erect buildings at more than one place. On December 23 three commissioners were apj^ointed to lay out a district of not less tlian two nor more tlian 3 m. square, on either side of the Delaware, within 8 m. above or below the falls. Commissioners. — 1791-'94, Thomas Johnson, Md.; 1791-'95, 236 HISTOR\ OP WASHINGTON. Daniel Carroll, Md. ; 1791-94, David Stuart, Ya. ; 1794-1800, Gustavus Scott, Md. ; 1794-1802, William Thornton, Penn. ; 1795-1802, Alexander Wliite, Md. ; 1800, William Cranch, Md.: 1800-1802, Tristram Dalton, Md. The Constitution of the United States, 1787, gave Congress the power ''to exercise exclusive legislation in all cases what- soever over such district, not exceeding 10 m. square, as may, by cession of particular States and the acceptance of Con- gress, become the seat of the Government of the United States." * * * (Art. I, Sec. 8.) Tlie first session of Congress of the United States of Amer- ica, assembled under the Constitution, was called upon to enter into this question, confronted by a stronger evidence of sectional spirit than liad hitherto been exhibited. Resolutions from the legislatures of States, besides numerous petitions and memorials, were presented, urging certain localities, and frequently offering great inducements. Districts of 10 m. square, with the right to exercise exclusive jurisdiction, were otiered to Congress for the seat of Government by acts of the General Assemblies of Maryland in December, 1788, Penn- sjdvania in September, 1789, and Virginia in December, 1789. As an additional inducement, Virginia ottered $120,000, and Maryland $72,000. Pennsylvania, in lier grant, excepted Pliiladelphia, the district of Southwark, and part of the Xortliern Liberties. Petitions were also received from the inhabitants of Trenton, in New .Jersey ; Lancaster, Wright's Ferry, York, Carlisle, Harrisburg, Eeading, and German- town, in Pennsylvania, and Baltimore and Georgetown, in Maryland. All expressed their willingness to come under the asgis of Congress andtlie Constitution, and pictured in glow- ing colors the advantages of climate and scenery, and conve- niences of access which their respective localities possessed. Tlie newspapers of the daj^ frequently took a humorous view of this patriotic competition, and in prose and verse gave vent to considerable good-natured sentiment. In the second session the Capital question was again agi- tated, ^nd Baltimore, Wilmington, the Delaware, German- town, between the Potomac and the Susquelianna, were all ui-ged ; but the act establishing the temporary Seat of Govern- ment at Philadelphia, from the first Monday in December, 1790, and tlie permanent on the river Potomac, between the mouths of the Eastern Branch (Anacostia) and Conogo- cheague, a tributary of the upper Potomac, to be reaily for the sessions of Congress by the first Monday in December, 1800, was finally passed, and approved by Washington July 10, 1790. In tlie Senate it received 14 yeas and 12 nays, and in tlie House 32 yeas and 29 nays. The immediate settle- HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 237 ment was effected as a compromise with tlie advocates of a fiscal measure known as the assumption of the State debts. The majorit)^ of the votes of the Middle States goino- with the South, gave the majority for the Potomac. The Legislature of Virginia, in December, 1790, appropri- ated the $120,000 previously offered, payable in three annual installments. In December, 1791, tlie Legislature of Mary- land gave an order for the payment of the $72,000 donated by that State. The December before, the same Legislature passed an act for providing for the condemnation of land, if necessary, for tlie public buildings. On January 22, 1791, the first commissioners, tlu-ee in number, were appointed to superintend the affairs of the city. On January 24 the Presi- dent issued a proclamation directing tlie commissioners to lay doAvn the four experimental lines of boundary, as follows : First, by running a line from the court-house of Alexan- dria, in Virginia, due SW. ^ m., and thence a due SE. course till it struck Hunting Creek. This was to be the initial point, from which the first line was to run due NW. 10 m. ; the second into Maryland due iSrE..10 m. ; the third due SE. , 10 m. ; and the fourth due SW. 10 m. to the beginning, on Hunting Creek; These were approved by Congress. The original act required the location of the District above the mouth of the Eastern Branch or Anacostia i-iver. To con- form the law to the experimental lines, an amendatory act, approved March 3, 1791, repealed the conflicting portion of the act of July IG, 1790, but required the public buildings to be erected on tlie Maryland side of the Potomac. After the completion of the necessaiy legislation on the subject. Presi- dent Washington set out on "a visit to the Potomac. He arrived March 28, 1791, and put up at Suter's tavern, a one- story frame structure, the favorite resort of travelers arriving at Georgetown. On March 29, in company with the three commissioners and the surveyors, Andrew Ellicott and Major Peter Charles Ti'Enfant, he rode over the ground. The same night a meeting was held for the purpose of elfecting a re- conciliation with the property owners. There were some who desired to derive all the advantages offered by the pro- posed city without making a reasonable concession to its success. The counsel of Washington had its effect. The general terms agreed upon were signed by nineteen of the original proprietors. The President issued a proclamation, dated ^larch 30, 1791, at Georgetown, which defined the lines of the Federal territory accepted by Congress, and ordered the commissioners to proceed forthwith to have the lines permanently marked. The President now left for a brief visit to his home at 238 HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. Mount Vernon ; thence he proceeded to Richmond, Va., to consult with Gov. Beverly Randolph respecting the payment of the $120,000 appropriated by the Commonwealtli of Virginia towards the building of the Capital. On April 13 he wrote, informing the commissioners that the Governor was willing to advance the money at earlier periods than agreed upon. On April 12 the commissioners held their first regular meet- ing at Georgetown. On April 15 the initial or corner-stone of the lines of the Federal territory was formally planted in the presence of the three commissioners, Andrew EUicott, the surveyor, and the Masons and many citizens of Alexan- dria. James Muir, the pastor of that Episcopal parish, deliv- ered a sermon. On June 29 a final settlement was etl'ected, by which the lands ceded to the Government w^ere conveyed in trust to Thomas Beall, of George, and John ^I. Gantt, of Maryland, or their lieirs, for the United States. The streets, squares, parcels, and lots WTre to be laid out, and conveyed by tlie trustees to the United States ; the residue of the land was to be divided equally. For their share the United States were to pay £25, or ^66 66f an a. The streets and squares went to the Government free. There were other stipulations respecting sales of lands and payment of indebtedness to the proprietors. They w^ere also permitted to occupy the lands till required for public use. Owing to a disagreement, the streets and reservations w-ere jiever conveyed to the commis- sioners. The law officer of the Government and the Supreme Court of the United States, however, have decided that the United States have absolute control over them notwithstand- ing. An act of Maryland, Dec. 19, 1791, ratified the cession of its portion of the Federal territory, and designated certain powers and duties of the commissioners, who were also au- thorized to take possession, in the same proportion as agreed with the others, of lots in Hamburg and Carrollsburg. The inhabitants of Georgetovrn. who so'requested, were t'b be in- cluded, provided the}^ conformed to the general terms of the agreement, which they declined. The laying out of the city according to the plans prepared by L'Enfant, which were approved by Wasliington in Aug., 1791, was carried out under the direction of Andrew EUicott, a native of Bucks county, Penn., a gentleman of fine attain- ments, and wlio had executed a number of important sur- veys. He was born in 1754, and died at West Point in 1820. The first step was the establishment of the "meridian line" througli the site of tlie Capitol, and the E. and W. in- tersecting line, whicli were to form tlie basis of the execution of the entire plan. At a meeting of the commissioners on Sept. 8, 1791, certain regulations were prescribed in regard HISTORY OP WASHINGTON. 239 to the erection of private buildings, and tile present names of the city and District and designation of the streets were adopted. Tlie first public sale of lots, of which the Govern- ment had 10,13G, took place at Georgetown on Oct. 17, 1791. A large number of purchasers were present from all parts of the country, and tlie prices paid ranged from $2G 66 to $306 59. During tlie summer and autumn of 1791 the commissioners also made preparations for the commencement of work early in the following spring. Contracts for building material and food were awarded, and a freestone quarry on Higgington's island, 40 m. below the city, was pnrcliased. Tlie President's House was tlie tirst of the public buildings commenced. An historical sketch of each of the public buildings will be found, with their description, in the HAND- BOOK. ' The building of the city, as might be expected, attracted a number of that class of persons who, though poor in means, were still rich in schemes. Among tlie earliest was one Samuel Blodgett, who appeared on the scene as an applicant for permission to build an entire street, which was granted. After considerable planning and negotiating, the enterprise was abandoned, the commissioners h.aving no funds to spare, and Blodgett's being all in anticipation. Undaunted, however, the same person undertook the erection of a great hotel, the funds for which were to be raised by lottery, the hotel being the first prize. The building was partly erected, and was drawn by a person without means to complete it. It re- mained unfinished till purchased, years after, by the Gevern- ment for the Post and Patent Otlices. In 1793, the commissioners entered into an agreement with Eobert Morris and James Greenleaf for the sale of 6,000 lots, at $80 a lot, payable in seven annual installments, with- out interest, they obliging themselves to erect, in 1794, and annually for six years, twenty brick houses, two stories high. The above two and John Nicholson bound themselves to ful- fill the contract. The parties failed to comply with any por- tion of the contract, which led to the serious embarrassment of the commissioners. One of the great obstacles in the way of the commission- ers in the beginning was the scarcity of skilled workmen. Agents were sent to the northern cities, and some importa- tions were made from abroad. The slaves from the adjacent plantations were almost exclusively employed as laborers. In 1796, Congress authorized the commissioners, under the direction of the President, to borrow $300,000, and, at the same time, assumed a supervision of the aftairs of the city, requiring the commissioners to report their operations 240 HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. semi-annually to the Secretary of the Treasury. Meeting witli no success in negotiating their loan in Holland, whence the first application of tlie commissioners was made, the As- sembly of Maryland came to their rescue by granting them a loan of $100,000. The election of John Adams at first excited some solicitude on tlie part of the friends of the Federal city, in considera- tion of the opposition to tlie selection of tlie Potomac site shown by the New England States in the discussion and vote in Congi-ess in 1790. The President, however, gave assur- ance of a determination to carry out the ^iews of his prede- cessor. In 1799, after a long discussion. Congress voted another $100,000 to the commissioners, which amount was also ad- vanced by the State of ISIaryland. The next yem- $50,000 was obtained from the same source, on the personal security of the commissioners. In Februaiy, 1800, they executed the i^apers necessary to the security of all the loans or advances to the city, both from the State of Maryland and the National Government, amounting to $300,000, exclusive of the last loan of $50,000. For that purpose thej^ pledged all the property in the city sold or contracted for before that time, and upon which pay- ments had not been made. The land accxuired or purchased for the United States and j^et unsold, exclusive of lots for- feited f(H- non-payment of purchase money and then liable to be sold, amounted to 4,682 lots and 2,043 ft. frontage on navigal^le water, valued at 0884,750. The debt was $144,125, and contracted for on the credit of the above funds of $300,- 881. The N. wing of the Capitol, the President's House, and War and Treasury Offices, the first commenced in 1797, were ready for occuj^ation. A number of dwellings had been erected by private parties in the vicinity of the Capitol, President's House, and Greenleaf's Point. Pennsylvania av., the thoroughfare from the Capitol to the President's House, was ditched. Other avenues and streets connecting the widelj^-scattered parts of the city were also opened. The resei-vations around the Capitol and President's House were planted. A turnpike was also opened to Baltimore. Suita- ble provisions having been made by act of Congress dated April 24, 1800, the archives of the Government were con- veyed to Washington. The Executive and offices were transferred at the same time. On November 21 Congress commenced its sessions in the N. wing of the Capitol. Con- gress assumed jurisdiction over the District of Columbia in 1801, and declared that the laws of Virginia and Maryland HISTORY OP WASHINGTON. 241 Bhoukl continue respectively in force in tlie portions of the District ceded by tliose States. In 1802 the Board of Commissioners was abolished and succeeded by asuperintendent, Thomas Mimroe, who was re- quired to settle up all accounts, and to sell a snfRcient number of the lots pledged for the repayment of the loan of $200,000 from the State of Marjiand, so as to meet all obligations of interest and installments. In event of an unwarrantable sac- rifice of tlie property to meet these demands, the sale was to cease, and the balance was to be paid out of the Treasury of the United States. Lots not paid for were also to be sold to meet the loan of $50,000 from the State of Maryland, or, if not sufficient, the residue was to be paid out of the Treasury. Mmjors of Washington. — 1802,Kobert Brent ; 1812, Daniel Rapine ; 1813, James H. Blake ; 1817, Benjamin G. Orr ; 1819, Samuel M. Small wood; 1822, T. Carberry; 1824, Eoger C. Weightman; 1827, Josepli Gales, jr.; 1830, John P. Van j^ess; 1834, W.A.Bradley; 1836, Peter Force ; 1840, W. W. Seaton; 1850, Walter Lenox; 1852, John W. Maury ; 1854, John T. Towers; 185G, W. B. Magruder; 1858, J. G. Ber- rett ; 1862, Richard Wallach ; 1868, S. J. Bowen ; 1870, M. G. Emery. Governors of the District of Columbia.' — 1871, Henry D. Cooke; 1873, A. R. Shepherd. On May 3, 1802, the municipal government was created by Congress, to consist of a mayor and council. Congress re- served supreme jurisdiction. The affaii-s of the county, and the construction of roads outside the city, were intrusted to a board known as the levy com-t. On Feb. 21, 1871, the ter- ritorial form of government was substituted. The most important event in the history of the Capital since its foundation was the occupation by the British. The President (Madison) and the Cabinet, over-confident of the safety of the Capital, or the indisposition of the British, who controlled tlie Chesapeake, to attack, had neglected to make suitable pi-ovisions for defense. As a consequence, about 3,500 raw militia, hastily concentrated and badly handled, were suddenly called upon to confront the enemy, 4,000 strong, at Bladensburg, 5 m. from the Capital, on August 24, 1814. Commodore Barney, with a few hundred sailors and marines, and Beall's Maryland militia, made a stubborn resistance on the turnpike, but, unsupported by the rest of the troops, who had fled almost without a fight, fell back to the Capital, proposing to defend that point. From here he was ordered to retire and take position behind Georgetown, leaving the city entirely defenseless. The American troops 16' 242 HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. retreated towards Montgomery Court House, having been preceded hy the President -and Cabinet and other prominent officers of the Government. The total force of Americans available was 7,000 men, but through mismanagement, the incapacity of Gen. "Winder, the commander, and tlie inter- ference of tlie President and Cabinet, especially the Secretary of War, not more than half that number reached the field, and even then were outnumbered five to one on the points of attack. The wliole Britisli force which landed on the Pau- tuxent numbered 5,123 men, of which 4,500 men took part hi the fight . The American loss was 26 killed and 51 wounded, and the' British 150 killed and 300 wounded. At 8 p. m. on the day of the battle the enemy bivouacked on Capitol Hill. The Capitol, Library of Congress, Presi- dent's House, Arsenal, Treasury and War otiices. Long Bridge, and office of the National Intelligencer newspaper, were bm-ned the same night, also some private buildings. The Navy Yard and frigate Columbia, on the stocks, and Argus, five barges, and two gunboats were destroyed by order of the Secretary of the Na\y. The explosion of pow- der in a well at the arsenal killed 15 and wounded 30 of the British. On tlie evening of August 25 the British evacuated the Capital. To use the words of one of the British officers, the retreat "was as cautious and stealthy and precipitate as was natural for a retreating army under such circumstances." On the retreat many died of fatigue or were taken prisoners by the cavalry harassing the rear. Nearly 200 of the dead left by the enemy were buried by the citizens. It was esti- mated that his aggregate loss was not less than 1,000 men. The enemy reached Benedict on the evening of August 29, and re-embarked the next day. The sight of the Capital in llames had aroused the inhab- itants of the surrounding countiy, who vrore beiug ralli(,'d by the Secretary of State, Mr. Monroe. It was resolved to cut off the enemy's retreat to his sliips. His haste, however, fi'ustrated these patriotic proceedings. When the question of the I'cstoration of the public build- mgs was under discussion, a long and bitter debate ensued, evincing not only a strong disposition to abandon the city, but a dangerous sectional feeling. For a time the most seri- ous consequences were threatened. Calmer counsels, how- ever, prevailed, and an appropriation of $500,000 was made for tlie repair or re-erection of the buildings on their old sites. The estimated loss was $1,000,000. In 1846 that portion of the District lying on the west bank of tlie Potomac was retroceded to Virginia. In 1850 tlie sale HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 243 of slaves was prohibited, and on April 16, 1862, slavery was abolished in the District. Diuini^ the rebellion, 1861-65, the Capital had every ap- peai-ance of a vast fortress. It was the base of operations of migiity armies, called out for the defens<} of the Constitution and tiie Union. ,0n the surrounding* hills were military camps ; in the city were hospitals and stores ; and the ave- nues and streets were the daily scene of moving troops and trains. The infusion of a new element into the population of the Capital was one of the important results of the rebellion of ]861-'6o. It was not, however, till a decade later that a sys- tem of improvements on a grand scale were commenced. In that time the number of the inhabitants increased nearly fifty thousand. Congress, in the meantime, had dispossessed itself of the idea that a National Capital was a political conve- nience, instead of necessity. The ideas of Washington, Jeffer- son, and L'Enfant, after a sleep of more than three quarters of a century, are being realized. The grand avenues, broad streets, and beautiful parks are in keeping with the magni- ficence of the Capitol and the imposing proportions of the structures occupied by the various Executive Departments of the Government. Elegant residences, fine churches, commodious school-houses, and many public and private institutions have been erected. It must be admitted that the Capital is no longer a reflection upon the taste, culture, and liberality of the nation, and the least inviting of American cities. At the same rate of improvement, in ten years the Capital of the United States will be one of the most beauti- ful in the world. These gratifying results are unquestion- ably due to the interest ancl zeal of "President Grant, an