Growing Up on Capitol Hill: A Young Washingtonian’s Journal, 1850-1852

Francis Ormond French (1837-1893) was twelve years old when he thought he had better commence his journal on the first day of January 1850. He lived in Washington at 37 East Capitol in a house built by his father, Clerk of the House of Representatives & Commissioner of Public Buildings under several presidents. This volume presents, in its entirety, the contents of Franciss journal which, together with endnotes & carefully chosen illustrations, provides a fascinating look at the daily life of a young boy living in the heart of Washington during a period of great change & historical interest. Includes selected readings.