Secret Washington DC: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure

by Joann Hill

Around the world, Washington, DC, is known for its powerful government, majestic monuments, and world-renowned museums. Secret Washington, A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure reminds us that the fabric of the city isn’t solely embedded in its callous political parties, exhausting lawmaking policies, and rampant tourism. Rather, it’s woven through its rich and complex history, mysterious relics, underground societies, forgotten and abandoned buildings, and controversial scandals.From the assassinations of Presidents Abraham Lincoln and James Garfield and Francis Scott Key’s son, to crimes of passion and rage at the US Capitol, Secret Washington, DC uncovers many of the dark and untold truths of how our nation emerged. At the same time, it shines a bright light on the capital’s numerous signs of creativity and innovation through the exploration of quirky art installations like Foamhenge and Barbie Pond on Avenue Q, to oddly shaped and decorated homes like the Mushroom House and the Vanadu Art House. Local author and educator JoAnn Hill will introduce you to the other side of Washington, a treasure trove of mystique, peculiarities, and hidden history just waiting to be explored.

318 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 23, 2021

Reviews

[Nancy Fondriest · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice, quick read with a fun collection of stories! I've lived in the area since 1987 and love exploring. I had previously discovered many of the sites, but still learned about many new places! Also, this is a great starting point for people who are new to the area!

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting to learn things about places I've been countless times. Great read, especially for locals.