Standing at history’s door
by Matt | August 21st, 2008 |Everyone who knows me also knows that I’m a HUGE history dork. I love it. Every bit of it.
So, I’m sure you can imagine just how cool I thought it was when I arrived at the Washington Hilton this morning. Who can tell me what happened at the Washington Hilton in 1981?
It was in March. It’s where Jim Brady was shot. The main target’s last name began with the letter “R.”
Yeah… Reagan’s attempted assassination. It’s a little bit morbid thinking that I’ve stood outside a couple times already this morning right on the very spot someone tried to assassinate a U.S. president. Weird and creepy, but cool.
I snapped a photo (above) while standing outside. The cover over the driveway was put up after the March 30, 1981 assassination attempt. They haven’t changed the stone facing on the exterior wall in the time since then. The photo below was taken just seconds before the bullets were fired (click here for a time lapse montage).
As I continue my blogging from D.C. and the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association annual convention, I’ll be posting the majority of my updates at my Q-Notes staff blog, InsideSource.q-notes.com. Head over now for updates on the two morning sessions, including a Q&A session with former North Carolina U.S. Senate candidate Jim Neal and news regarding The Advocate.
3 Responses to “Standing at history’s door”
Umm, if Jim Brady died, who’s the guy in the wheelchair trying to take away everyone’s guns?
That’s awesome though, I hope your trip goes well!
By Ryan on Aug 21, 2008
Yeah, yeah, yeah. We all know I always get at least one detail wrong. lol
My trip is going well. Long days though.
By Matt on Aug 22, 2008
Wow Matt, I live just a few blocks away from the Hilton. Eugene and I walk by it every now and then as we visit the neighborhood. Wish I had time to visit; but, his mom is coming over from Russia this Sunday to visit and we’re trying to get the place cleaned. You’re close to many of the gay places in DC, too. The clubs on 17th are okay, or along “P” Street towards 14th Street. Try “Town” this weekend. Anyway, have a great time!
By juanito on Aug 22, 2008