I happened to be in Washington DC last week on business. At the last minute I decided to bring my camera with intention capturing DC at night. In a effort to change things up here, I wanted to share these images.I consider myself lucky that I got out of town before the arrival of thousands of buses carrying inauguration visitors and the crush of millions of people for the events this week. I understand the desire for people to be there this week, I for one, will be happy to watch from my television.
On Wednesday night I decided to jump on the Metro train and check out the preparations going on at the National Mall. Armed with my camera I started at the US Capital building. You can see the flags and stage behind the statue of US Grant. I could not get within 200 yards of the building itself. There was already a sea of seats and different fenced off areas for special ticket holders.
I then started walking towards the Washington Monument. The number of chem-cans and crowd control structures was astonishing to me. I guess with the expected number of people to exceed 1.5 million, they need to have a place for them to go to the bathroom and control where they can go. Beyond the Washington Monument, on the edge of the reflecting pool is the new World War II Memorial. This plaza and fountain structure was opened in 2004 and has become one of my favorite places to visit during my frequent trips to Washington DC.
I continued my walk along the reflecting pool towards the Lincoln Memorial. The Memorial site was buzzing with late night construction crews erecting the stage for the pre-inauguration concert yesterday featuring Bruce Springsteen and U2. It took a little navigation expertise to work around the stage structure, but I was able to get up the stairs to get this shot of the huge Abraham Lincoln mable statue. I have been coming to this memorial for 30+ years and it gives me goose bumps each and every time. It is a very special place.Regardless of your politics, tomorrow we will witness one of the most important aspects of our American democracy. Outside of the historical impact of this day -- the peaceful transition of power is a wonderful and astonishing event. The excitment that has overtaken Washington is breathtaking.
Posts
4 comments:
I have worked in Washington many times myself and I am fascinated by it everytime I am there. My son lived in Alexandria, Virginia for about a year and went through the Washington, D.C. police academy. He is now back in Michigan (another story for another time) but my wife and I visited him several times when he was there. Having gone there so many times I am sure you know about the Old Ebbitt Grill. I also agree with you about the Lincoln Memorial. It is one of the most fascinating things in the area. Great pictures and nice write up.
Yes, I have been to Old Ebbitt many times. Great people watching and fun bartenders.
Andy,
I hope you stopped by Arlington National Cemetary. My dad is buried there. He was a CWO 2 in the Coast Guard for 20+ years. I was ok during all the ceremonies, but really broke down during the 21 gun salute at his gravesite.
I was 28 when he passed and the experience "hit me" at that moment. I asked 'what have I done with my life? He is getting all of these "props" for stuff he did at my age..."
I have been back there to see good ol' dad a handful of times since then and am able to tell my dad, "Dad, you did good. You would be proud of me if you were still alive."
While I am eligible to be buried with my dad, I do not have that option in my estate plans. He was out of the Coast Guard for 5 yrs before I was born.
Thanks for letting me share.
Go Blue.
Those are very good pictures. Night pictures are always a pain to get.
Post a Comment