Historic Sketches at Washington; Containing a Full Record of the Origin and Early History of Washington City and Its Founders, Together with a Detailed Account of Its Growth, Its Public Buildings, the Style and Extravagance of Living There, and a Descript (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1877. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XTX. A RUNNING HISTORY OP IMPROVEMENTS IN WASHINGTON. June loth, 1800, the public offices were opened at Washington, and Congress assembled there for the first time, November 22d. The laws of Virginia and Maryland were extended over the portions ceded by those States, which constituted respectively the counties of Alexandria and Washington, both of which had jurisdiction on the intermediate Potomac river. A court of three judges, with U. S. Circuit Court powers, was provided for, and also an orphans' court. February 11th, 1800, while a snow storm raged without, and intense partisan activity and bitterness went on within, the House of Representatives proceeded to ballot for the successor of John Adams. One member was carried to the Hall in a litter, and the ballot-box brought to his side. Express-riders were kept in relay from Washington to Richmond, and one Session of Congress continued for thirty-one hours. Jefferson and Burr were both in the city. On the thirty-sixth ballot, February 17th, Jefferson was elected. Washington was first so called explicitly by the three commissioners--Johnson, Stuart, and Carroll--in a letter addressed to Major L' Enfant, from Georgetown, September 9th, 1791. Under the first board of commissioners--Johnson, Carroll, nnd Stuart--who kept in office until 1794, there were sold 6,227 Washington lots, for $541,384. The next board--Scott, Carroll, and Thornton--sold 83 lots for $50,217. The third board--Scott, White, and Thornton--sold 101 lots for $41,081. About $117,000 failed to be collected. In 1802 the board was dissolved, and the office of Superintendent created, and Thomas Monroe appointed. He served until 1817, and sold 238 lots for $51,652. Colonel Samuel Lane succeeded Monroe, and sold 69 lots for $21,128. The e...