Rare CDV of the Old Soldiers’ Home Washington, D.C., by G.D. Wakely 

Description

Rare CDV of the Old Soldiers’ Home 

Washington, D.C., by G.D. Wakely 

1866 Original carte de visite photograph of the Old Soldiers’ Home in Washington, D.C., taken in 1866 by noted photographer G.D. Wakely. Constructed in 1851, the Old Soldiers’ Home became a favored retreat of President Abraham Lincoln, who spent roughly one-quarter of his presidency there, including the summer months during which he drafted the Emancipation Proclamation. This finely detailed image captures the distinctive architecture of the Home’s central building with its Italianate tower, balconies, and landscaped grounds. Imprint on verso and copyright line along lower margin reading: “Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1866, by G.D. Wakely, Washington, D.C.” A scarce post-war view of one of the most historically significant presidential residences outside the White House.  

Inventory Number: CDV 588