We the People (D.C.)
Lincoln Memorial
In Seattle, we call Washington D.C., “the other Washington.” The D.C. stands for District of Columbia, though it is rarely called by its rightful name.
The hub of politics and government in the United States, Washington D.C. was named after the first President, General George Washington. Located on the bank of the Potomac River, it borders the states of Virginia and Maryland.
The original land owners were the Nacotchtank Indian Tribe who relocated once the Europeans began to arrive. Began in 1791. the area contained wetlands and those who began construction often fell victim to malaria, an incurable disease that caused high fever and hallucinations. But once construction was complete, it became one of the most beautiful cities in America. The United States Capitol burned in the War of 1812 with the British, during which the Capitol building, Treasury Building and the White House were severely damaged.
Most visitors are attracted to D.C. because of the excellent museums and monuments. Of course that is not all there is to see. D.C. has sports teams, the arts such as ballet, music recording studios, national television networks, parks and even a zoo with a world famous panda family. It is impossible not to find what you are looking for in D.C.
But perhaps history buffs are most drawn to this part of the United States. Who hasn’t seen a picture of Abe Lincoln’s statue sitting in a chair between the glorious pillars. Inside the Lincoln Memorial visitors can see amazing art work, inscriptions of documents such as Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and mural paintings. Ford’s Theatre, where Lincoln was assassinated, is also located in Washington D.C.
Other magnificent memorials to see include the White House; the Washington National Cathedral; the Thomas Jefferson Memorial; the United States Capitol; the Vietnam Veterans Memorial; the National Museum of the American Indian, and the Korean War Veterans Memorial to name only a few.
Inside the National Archives, visitors can see the Declaration of Independence “We the people …,” the United States Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. The Smithsonian Institution is a museum of gargantuan proportions where one can see artifacts from the earliest wars to Hollywood’s famous actors and it is free of charge.
Add to those the many other museums, sculptures and art galleries to see, and one should plan to stay for several days. And what’s a major city in America without its own Chinatown? D.C. even has a spy museum. At some of the many gala events, one might even see the President and his wife.
There is no shortage of hotels, restaurants and shopping malls. Transportation includes the Red, Orange, and Blue Metrorail lines; rapid transit buses, commuter trains and Reagan National Airport. But be prepared to get stuck in traffic if you choose to drive. About half a million actually live in D.C., but commuters raise the population considerably during the work week.
Although humid, D.C. enjoys all four seasons from hot summers to snowy winters. Therefore you might want to plan your holiday to take in the cherry blossoms in spring or the colorful turning of the leaves in fall. which ever you choose, visiting the capitol of “The new land,” is well worth your time.
Marti Talbott
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