Historical Society of Washington, DC: Keeping DC's memory alive
Washington, DC has always felt and been treated as the country's stepchild: no representation in Congress, no star in the flag, and existing for eternity as the country's repository for all historical documentation except its own. Its residents, however, are fiercely proud of their 202 area code, long before telephones existed. Over the past 100 years, a group began collecting items and documents to keep a record of the city for what would eventually become the Historical Society of Washington, DC.
In 1894, a group of Washingtonians created what they hoped would become a City Museum. Fast-forward more than 100 years, and the Historical Society now lives in the old Carnegie Library on Mt. Vernon Square. For about a year, from 2003 to 2004, the city enjoyed its very own City Museum. However, possibly due to overshadowing from all the other museums of Washington DC, the museum closed its doors and remained a historical society with a library, publications and exhibits.
Today, visitors can still go to the Historical Society to view rotating exhibits and learn about the history of the District. Exhibits range from history to art. Current exhibits include works of art by local Washington artists and art societies, Binding Wounds, Pushing Boundaries exhibit which examines the contribution of African-Americans in Civil War Medicine, and another study on the communities east of the Anacostia River. Touring exhibits from other cities also come through the Historical Society as well. Outside, visitors can wander among a variety of sculpture art surrounding the building.
Various events are held at the Historical Society. Free Kung-Fu and T'ai Chi classes are offered, as well as lectures by local politicians, artists, writers, and other District leaders. There's also discussion on particular topics and Q&A sessions. Check the calendar online for upcoming events and exhibits. Private events are also held, and the space is available for renting.
Posted by Rin-rin Yu
