The Smithsonian Castle and the Seneca Quarry

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The narrative delves into the intriguing history of the Seneca Quarry, the red sandstone source for the Smithsonian Castle. It recounts the tumultuous journey of the quarry, marked by financial failures, natural disasters, and a scandal tied to the Grant presidency. The story highlights the lives of the quarry owners and the emancipated slaves who labored there, as well as ongoing efforts to preserve this significant site. Author Garrett Peck weaves together these elements to reveal the rich, yet often overlooked, legacy behind the iconic institution.