Pennsylvania Ave, Washington D.C

Pennsylvania Avenue is a important street in the United States capital, Washington, D.C., and it has been the venue for many important parades. The street runs for seven miles, but the stretch from the White House to the United States Capitol building is considered the most important as effectively the 'heart' of the city. It is the scene for official parades and processions, as well as protest marches and civilian protests.

Abraham Lincoln's funeral cortege solemnly proceeded down Pennsylvania Avenue in 1865, and only weeks later the end of the American Civil War was celebrated when the Army of the Potomac paraded more joyously down the street. Following the lead of Thomas Jefferson, incoming Presidents traditionally walk or ride down the avenue after taking their oath of office.

Photo of Pennsylvania Avenue about 1900, looking from the Treasury Building to the U.S. Capitol Building.