Antique 1869 first edition copy of Sights and Secrets of the National Capital: A Work Descriptive of Washington City in All Its Various Phases by Dr. John B. Ellis and published by the United States Publishing Company of New York. Features full page engravings of public buildings and landmarks like the White House and Smithsonian. The preface states that this is the first work in print describing both the attractions and sights as well as what goes on in the capitol city, and was intended to educate people who were not able to visit in person. It details not just landmarks, but also government departments, from the Senate and Judiciary to the Patent office and War Department, plus brief biographies for a few noted politicians. It also details things like hotels, amusements and society. Probably the most fascinating passages warn of houses of ill repute, gambling, criminal rings, counterfeiters, and bogus congressman. 512 pages.
Antique estate find, please see photos for more information on condition. In very good condition for age. Wear to corners and spine edges as shown. Binding is secure and pages are intact and are not yellow or brittle. Some light foxing on page edges as well as the first few and last few pages of the book. Still easily readable, or use it for display. A fascinating look at Washington D.C. from a book in exceptional condition, printed over 150 years ago.
