Collection: District of Columbia

Washington, D.C., was established as the United States capital in 1790 along the Potomac River, carved from land ceded by Maryland and Virginia. Designed by French engineer Pierre Charles L'Enfant, the city was envisioned with grand avenues, open parks, and prominent landmarks that were easily accessible. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, D.C. became a hub for government, diplomacy, and culture, with iconic monuments like the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the White House shaping its landscape. Today, it is not only the political heart of the United States but also a vibrant city rich in history, museums, and diverse communities.