Shaw in Northwest Washington in Washington, District of Columbia — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
The City & The Stars
Banneker's curiosity about the stars was piqued after peering through a telescope owned by George Ellicott. Ellicott encouraged Banneker's exploration of astronomy, lending him several books and instruments. Banneker successfully calculated a solar eclipse in 1789. In 1791, the 59-year-old assisted with surveying the new federal district and laying its cornerstones. For several weeks, he made astronomical observations and maintained a field clock. Banneker continued observations and work that would result in his most widely known accomplishment: an almanac.
"…your knowledge of the situation of my brethren is too extensive to need a recital here; neither shall i presume to prescribe methods by which they may be relieved; otherwise than by recommending to you and all others, to wean yourselves from these narrow prejudices which you have imbibed…"
—Letter from Benjamin Banneker to Thomas Jefferson, August 19, 1791
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Air & Space • Exploration • Science & Medicine. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #03 Thomas Jefferson series list. A significant historical date for this entry is August 19, 1791.
Location. 38° 54.692′
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Almanac of 1792 / The Naming of a Neighborhood (here, next to this marker); Benjamin Banneker - A Man of Science (here, next to this marker); The Evolution of a Neighborhood / Shaw, U Street, and Black Culture (a few steps from this marker); Planning the Federal City (a few steps from this marker); Shaw Junior High School (a few steps from this marker); Squares 336, 337 & 364 (a few steps from this marker); Benjamin Banneker Academic High School (within shouting distance of this marker); 10th Street Gateway (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Northwest Washington.
![The City & The Stars Marker [Reverse] image. Click for full size.](Photos6/692/Photo692609.jpg?1125202231100PM "The City & The Stars Marker [Reverse]. Click for full size.")
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), November 24, 2022
2. The City & The Stars Marker [Reverse]
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), November 24, 2022
3. Markers on the grounds of Benjamin Banneker Academic High School from the north
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), November 24, 2022
4. Markers on the grounds of Benjamin Banneker Academic High School from the south
Credits. This page was last revised on January 30, 2023. It was originally submitted on November 23, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 98 times since then and 14 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on November 25, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
