The Octagon House is supposedly a great example of early Federalist
architecture. It may be a good example, but it's not too exciting.
This map of Washington D.C.'s geography in 1800 has the location of
modern buildings superimposed. It really illustrates how much land has
been recovered from water over the last two hundred years.
The fireplaces' mantels have detailed carvings. Notice how fine are the
dots that give this carving the impression of flowing cloth.
