On June 30, 1882, Charles Guiteau was executed for the assassination of President Garfield. It was just under a year since he had pulled the trigger, and the trial had held public attention for most of the intervening year. The execution took place on Capitol Hill, and the executioner himself was not only a Hill […]
In the early 20th century, cremation was still a new concept in the United States. Although there were 40 crematoria scattered around the country, and New Yorkers were increasingly turning to this method of disposal, cremation still was a repugnant concept to most Americans. Of course, there were those who could not let their views on […]
Occasionally something happens nearby which does not really have any direct connection to Capitol Hill, but still merits a post here. I wrote last week about Olive G. Kimball‘s tireless work to build the new amphitheater at Arlington Cemetery, and mentioned that Frank Buckles, last surviving US World War I veteran would soon lie in […]
On Tuesday March 15, the US Army will say farewell to its last surviving veteran of the first World War. Frank Buckles will lie in honor in the Arlington Amphitheater, which lies immediately behind the Tomb of the Unknowns, and thus anyone who wants to pay their last respects can do so. It is, however, […]
I have been spending the last weeks researching the houses that will be featured on this year’s CHRS House & Garden tour. Much of what I have been able to find out will not be published in their guide, but before I let the story of another Capitol Hill resident go to waste, I will […]