White House Cornerstone Laid

This Day in History: October 13, 1792

The bustling city of Washington, D.C. has not always been as elaborate as it is today nor is it the only city having served as the nation's capital. The United States capital was originally located in Philadelphia. The city of Washington was created to replace Philadelphia as the nation's capital because of its geographical position in the center of the existing new republic.

President's House, Philadelphia.

After the election of the First President of the United States in 1789, discussion began as to where the President should live. Would he be housed in a northern state or southern state? What kind of house should he live in...a palace like a king, a mansion like a millionaire, a simpler house like a commoner? 

Congress debated on what type of dwelling to build and where to build it. During this time, President Washington actually lived in three houses: the first two in New York City and the third in Philadelphia, PA. President Washington made the decision compromising on a patch of land along the Potomac River.

White House, 1846

The White House is the president's official residence with its cornerstone being laid in the newly designated capital city of Washington, D.C. on October 13, 1792.  The Capitol building is the domed structure where congress has its sessions, where government business is conducted. This structure's cornerstone was laid on September 18, 1793. (See Capitol Cornerstone Laid.)

With today being celebrated as Columbus Day and in some states, Native American Day, it is interesting to note that archaeological evidence indicates Native Americans settled in the area at least 4000 years ago, around the Anacostia River. Early European exploration of the region took place early in the 17th century, including explorations by Captain John Smith in 1608.

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