The Olivia Letters Being Some History of Washington City for Forty Years as Told by the Letters of a Newspaper Correspondent

"The Olivia Letters" by Emily Edson Briggs is a historical account rendered through a series of letters penned by Olivia, a newspaper correspondent, chronicling four decades of Washington, D.C.'s past. The collection provides insightful views into the social and political landscape of the city during and after the Civil War, presenting key figures and landmark events through a personal lens. The narrative begins with Olivia's reflections on iconic structures, such as the U.S. Capitol, which shows the nation's architectural aspirations; she uses these reflections to symbolize the nation's unity. As the story unfolds, Olivia immerses the reader in the society of Washington, where she describes interactions with soldiers and politicians, as well as the impact of reconstruction on society. The letters give detailed impressions, depicting a period marked by both change and reflection.