After a fine post-run breakfast we jumped on the Metro and headed back into DC to check out the mall at a more sedate pace than the morning run.

It was already shaping up to be a scorcher and the sun was punishing on the mainly white stone surfaces. We passed several museums but on a whim decided to head into the National Archives. We were very glad we did – an original copy of Magna Carta, one of only four, was on display, as part of a great exhibit on the progression of rights in America. Of particular note was the section on African American rights, some great material on Martin Luther King Jr and some poignant personal stories of freed slaves.

There were also significant displays on women’s rights and Native American rights.

After this we headed upstairs to the rotunda, holding the jewels in the museum’s crown – the originals of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

Unsurprisingly no photos were allowed but the documents were great to see in real life, even if they were quite faded. A real treat!

 

Leaving the cool dark confines of the archives we headed back into the blazing sun, further down the mall and to the beautiful treasury building. Quite ornate and lovely, but overshadowed by its smaller next-door-neighbour – 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue (the Gettysburg Address?) and the White House. 

 We came in the back way (like Dubya in 2004, ahahaha) and were able to get quite close, despite the heavy security presence. Out of nowhere a group of army people ran past without their shirts chanting U-S-A, U-S-A, which I suppose suited the location.

To evade the heat we retired to a roof-top bar nearby for a cooling beverage and some lunch. We had spectacular views of the White House, treasury building and Washington monument. The beers were pretty good too! 

 Refreshed, we set off to see the monument up close, pausing briefly for the mandatory lame perspective trick photos.  

 We then walked down alongside the reflecting pool, pondering the essential nature of duck poo and solving the problems of the world, until we came to the Lincoln Memorial. A stunning building, the statue of Abe is very impressive up close. 

 Salli also pointed out a plaque on the floor denoting the place where MLK gave the legendary “I have a dream” speech. Some great history here. The sun was behind the memorial and lighting the reflecting pool and monument beautifully, I’m not sure photos can do justice to the moment. 

   
Meanwhile Otto had taken a liking to the marble stairs and was clambering up and down them (supervised of course!) and making friends with all and sundry.

Moving on we wandered back to the station via a grocery store. As I was browsing I heard the guy next to me saying his best trip was to Australia and how much he likes Australians. I introduced myself and tried to set the record straight. Turns out he’s a fellow Bombers supporter, good man.

Another day packed with history and fun with our most kind hosts. Really enjoying DC so far!