With so many historical buildings and grand museums to visit in Washington D.C., it's easy to miss the Library of Congress. It is one place that I'm glad I got to see.
The building dates back to 1897 and it is simply magnificent inside. Unfortunately, photography was not allowed looking into the grand reading room that is surrounded by huge stacks of books. However, the foyer of the building was so palatial, I didn't miss getting that other view. Off to one side of this lofty area is the Jefferson library containing some of the books that Thomas Jefferson sold to congress after the original collection went up in flames in 1814. The library is working with a generous grant to try to reassemble all of Jefferson's books here.
On the lower level of the building is a wonderful museum full of all kinds of interesting things to see. Above you see Gershwin's piano. From time to time, famous pianists are allowed to play it. Wouldn't that be fun to see? The museum also contains things like the maps of Lewis and Clark, Jefferson's draft of the Declaration of Independence, a Gutenberg Bible and Bob Hope's 80,000 page joke file. It's an eclectic mix of documents and items.
You can even get a close up view of the Presidential Medal of Freedom!
It's another historical Washington building that is well worth a visit.
4 comments:
I've never had the opportunity to visit this place, but your post -- photos and commentary make it very enticing. If I ever get the chance to visit Washington, I will see out the library and especially the are with Jefferson's books. It is an incredibly beautiful building and I'm glad to see that we can build some fine structures also.
WOW!
Utterly magnificent!
I could live there.
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