Park Ranger Speaker Series

The Department of the Interior Library is proud to introduce a series of programs focusing on the background and history of sites of interest in the National Mall area of Washington, D.C. The 45-minute programs, presented by National Park Service Rangers, are held monthly in the training room of the DOI Library.

Additional programs will be posted as they are scheduled. Please check this page regularly for changes or updates.

Arlington House & Cemetery
Tuesday, September 16, 2008, 1:00 pm – 1:45 pm

Following the ratification of secession by Virginia in 1861, federal troops crossed the Potomac and occupied Arlington House, the 1804 estate owned by George Washington’s adopted great-granddaughter Mary Anna Custis and her husband, Robert E. Lee. The confiscated property was offered for public sale in 1864, and was purchased by a tax commissioner for "government use, for war, military, charitable and educational purposes." Soon thereafter, the grounds around Arlington House were established for use as a military cemetery.

Join National Park Service Ranger Matt Penrod in the DOI Library on Tuesday, September 16th for a look at the history of Arlington House, its occupation by Union troops during the Civil War, and the transformation of the estate into the hallowed ground we know it as today.

The Civil War Defenses of Washington
Tuesday, October 21, 2008, 1:00 pm – 1:45 pm

A general had selected its site and a military engineer had designed its layout, but the Civil War tested Washington’s defensive strengths. Beginning in 1861, Major John G. Barnard directed “the occupation of the heights” by thousands of soldiers and others who transformed the countryside into a bustling city unto itself with dozens of forts and batteries and miles of rifle trenches and connecting military roads. Many of these silent sentinels survive but lie somewhat forgotten among the capital area’s neighborhoods and parks.

Please join Park Ranger Michael T. Kelly for a look at the earth, wood, stone, and brick Civil War forts and defenses of Washington, each bearing the names of people and places carried forever on the honor rolls of service to the United States.

The Architecture of John Russell Pope
Tuesday, November 18, 2008, 1:00 pm – 1:45 pm

John Russell Pope was a noted and celebrated architect during the first half of the 20th century. He was chosen to be the architect of many memorials and important buildings throughout the country, including the Jefferson Memorial, Masonic Temple, National Archives Building, DAR Constitution Hall, and National Gallery of Art (West Building) all here in Washington, DC. Pope and his architectural firm consistently produced dignified architecture of classical inspiration, helping lead a Neo-Classical revival throughout the country.

Please join National Park Service Ranger Eric Pominville for a look at the life of John Russell Pope, the local monuments and buildings he designed, and how his architectural style continues to influence architects to this day.