Walking around the mall last weekend during the celebrations of MLKjr's March on Washington got me thinking about the history of the area. I've also been doing a project involving the National Archives and stumbled onto this nice set of photos that make the point nicely:

Panoramic photographs taken east from the Washington Monument (1916 and 1996)

People assume The Mall was always there-- especially when reinforced by scenes in Forrest Gump and other movies. But just look 80 years back-- easily within a person's lifespan-- and things look radically different.

Speaking of DC changing, take a listen to this group of stories NPR did about Walter Pierce Community Park in Adams Morgan. (that's right, Tim!)

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And on a different note...

Why do bagpipers always walk when they play?
-- They're trying to get away from the noise.

Given this flawless piece of musical wisdom, it's unsurprising that we hear (or perhaps not) the same thing from the proverbial horse's mouth:

Bagpipes hit sour note for hearing

By: James Doherty

FOR many a Scots regiment, the Highland bagpipe was as potent in the advance toward battle as artillery and rifles.

But a survey conducted by Piper & Drummer magazine has revealed the resonating force of the pipes can damage more than the morale of enemy troops.

Half of those surveyed reported hearing loss and repetitive strain injuries after years of playing.

Some 10 per cent also reported that their passion for the pipes had led to the break-up of marriages, while 84 per cent claimed to know pipe-band members who are alcoholics.
(excerpted from The Scotsman Magazine 082503)

Got to head out... More to come...