All the News...

Reading the day's news while soaking up some spring warmth
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Continuing with 100 Strangers, I was downtown today to meet my brother for an early lunch and then to reconnect with a former colleague from my days working at a recycling non-profit. While I was waiting, I took some pictures of a few sights and some of the people out and about. This woman, reading a newspaper outside 14 & K Restaurant and Lounge, intrigued me. Her name is Nell Minnow. I didn't talk to her for very long, but I did compliment her on her name. She said she likes it, too!

Photo copyright: D.C. Confidential/Janet Kincaid, 03/09

McPherson Square

Gen. James McPherson--highest ranking officer to die during the Civil War

Yep, it's another Dead Guy Memorial! This one is of General James McPherson who served in the U.S. Army during the Civil War. This equestrian statue is located in the center of McPherson Square, one block north of the White House and bordered by the infamous K Street--home to many of Washington's lobbying and special interest groups. But enough of that.

McPherson, as I mentioned, served in the U.S. Army and was the highest ranking officer to die during the Civil War. He fell during an ambush by Confederate skirmishers at the Battle of Atlanta. Loved by his troops, he was greatly missed by his soldiers and his death brought profound sadness to his boyhood friend and Confederate peer, John Bell Hood.

McPherson Square is also the name of a Metro stop located across the street. Ironically, this square is also where many of Washington's homeless and mentally ill hang out. It isn't uncommon to see K Street policy wonks walking across the square past the destitute and downtrodden. They each keep their respectful distance, but the contrast is stark. Twice a day, a van from a local soup kitchen pulls up and dispenses food to the homeless.

Photo copyright: D.C. Confidential, 2/08