That Time Congress Almost Left DC, and How John Sevier Was Involved

At Marble Springs, we are very lucky to have digital access to John Sevier's diary, especially as we can look back 200 years ago to see what he was doing on a certain day.

But we missed an important moment back in October:

"OCTOBER, 1814.

Sat. 15 . . . This day the H. of R. Negotiated a bill for the removal of the seat of Government."

But what does this mean?

During the War of 1812, the British attempted to burn down Washington, DC. They successfully torched the unfinished Capitol building, leaving it just a shell. The 13th Congress returned to DC for the next session and had to move their meetings to the Patent Office. 

Many of the legislators wanted to move the government out of Washington, DC. Legislation took a long time, and finally, on October 15, 1814, nine votes kept the capital in DC. Congress met in various places around the city for several years until the Capitol could be rebuilt. 

For more information about this, read the House of Representatives' blog post, "Leave No Forwarding Address: When Congress Almost Abandoned D.C.".

Hey whatever happened to... doing it all by hand?

Back before everything became automatic, the Seviers (and everyone else living in the late 18th/ early 19th centuries) had to make things by hand and use candlelight to see! 

We are gearing up for our final two events of the 2014 calendar (have no fear-- our 2015 calendar will be released soon, and we have a few new events and workshops planned), and we are looking forward to both of them!

We are offering our popular Candle Making Workshop again on December 6. Be sure to call or email us soon for reservations-- spaces have been filling up quickly!

One of our favorite things to ask students who visit is "How are things different here compared to your home?" (or "What is missing?") It never fails-- electricity and video games/ television always come up quickly. During December, we provide an example of how the holidays were different during early statehood compared to today. We have our Candlelight Tours on December 13. Experience the historic site through the soft glow of candle light. The historic buildings will be decorated with fresh greenery. Music, open hearth cooking, baked goods & warm drinks will set your heart aglow with holiday spirit (Details are subject to change.) 

We hope you will join us for these fun events.