Normally, this is where I’d discuss what has changed in the original picture vs. today. But when the photo is of the March on Washington, I’m not sure what I can say. What has changed? Many things. But not enough things. We must do better.
Original photo taken by Warren Leffler, August 28, 1963, courtesy of the Library of Congress.
The Mall has changed a lot in 148 years, hasn’t it? It was beautiful. I have conflicted feelings about the Mall today. It’s the nation’s gathering place, and so it being a flat expanse of boringness is a practical solution to that problem. But imagine if it was still the hilly park it used to be? With wildflower meadows or gardens?
Original photo taken in June of 18-friggin-62 by Andrew J. Russell, courtesy of the Library of Congress.
The original caption reads: Photograph shows a view of the Smithsonian Institution from below a field of wildflowers. Seven men face the building.
Man, those Hudsons are awesome, aren’t they? And isn’t that monstrosity of a facade on the left horrible?
See this scene today.
Original photo taken in 1911, courtesy of the Library of Congress, and discovered via the always excellent Shorpy.
Well, the landscape looks similar in this view, but thank goodness times have changed. This kid is 9 years old!
Caption of original image, taken by Lewis Hine:
Israel April, 314 I St., S.W., Washington, D.C. “I serves the President”. 9 yr. old news boy with no badge selling near Willard Hotel, Sunday P.M., 4/14/12. Been selling for several years. I found him selling after midnight April 17th and 18th. Quite a pugnacious little chap. He and his brother are said to have a large clientele among ambassadors and senators. Location: Washington (D.C.), District of Columbia.
Original image taken on April 14, 1912, courtesy of the Library of Congress.
This photo is amazing. Here’s the caption for the original:
Congressional hog caller. Washington, D.C. June 9. The Capitol Plaza reverberated with sounds of the barnyard today as Rep. Robert L. Mouton, of Louisana, went into serious training for his coming hog. calling contest with Rep. Otha D. Wearin, of Iowa. The contest, which will take place on the Capitol steps sometime in the new future, is the result of an argument between the two solons as to the abilities of the hog-yodelers from the respective states. Judging from his demonstration today the cameraman is willing right now to place the mantle of champion of Rep. Mouton. 6/9/37
Original photo taken on 6/9/1937, courtesy of the Library of Congress.
This lovely corner is now home to the Spy City Cafe (next door to the International Spy Museum). I’m glad they’ve kept it around.
See this scene today.
Original photo taken in 1920, courtesy of the Library of Congress. Discovered via Shorpy.
Well, as you can see, this looks pretty close to what it did during the Civil War, if you discount the new bridge and all. This bridge was destroyed during the Battle of Bull Run (First Manassas) and rebuilt soon after.
See this scene today.
Original photo taken in 1923, courtesy of the Library of Congress.
Other than the Willard (the imposing structure on the left – one of the most beautiful buildings in Washington), everything here is gone. Instead, we have a crapass ugly Marriott. Wonderful.
The building that is on the far right in the original photo is the original Washington Post building. Be sure to check out this Shorpy thread to get more info on all the businesses that used to occupy this block.
I don’t have this aligned properly because the square that the original shot was taken from is gone, and alignment was impossible.
Original image taken in 1920, courtesy of the Library of Congress, and discovered via Shorpy.
Please view large to look at creepy ghost child.
Well, aside from what appears to be some erosion on this hill, not much has changed. Trees and bushes have grown, which is to be expected.
Quick aside: the Capitol is fantastic. Especially on a beautiful spring day. Be sure to visit if you get the chance.
Original photo taken in 1924, courtesy of the Library of Congress
Miss Atlantic City, Miss Philadelphia and Miss Washington, DC gather in front of Union Station. Miss Washington, DC (Margaret Gorman – the first Miss America) has appeared in this series before. She is joined by Ethel Charles and Nellie Orr. And, as someone on Shorpy astutely notices, Jed Clampett.
Nothing other than some light fixtures has changed here. Good. Union Station doesn’t need the help.
Original photo taken in 1921, courtesy of the Library of Congress, and discovered via Shorpy.
RSS Feed