City of Washington President <a href="http://mallhistory.org/items/show/152">George Washington</a> and city planner <a href="http://mallhistory.org/items/show/82">Pierre L'Enfant</a> chose the land for the new capital of the United States, in part, because of the beauty of its landscape. Rolling hills, the meeting point of two rivers, flat lands along the river banks, and fields good for growing crops were positive signs. This image shows a romantic view of the city looking across the Potomac River from Virginia into the District. The Capitol building stands on a hill. Sailing ships and tranquil farmlands speak of a prosperous and beautiful city. Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.<a href="http://www.loc.gov/pictures/item/hec2009014634/"> View original</a>. 1939 <a href="/items/browse?advanced%5B0%5D%5Belement_id%5D=38&advanced%5B0%5D%5Btype%5D=is+exactly&advanced%5B0%5D%5Bterms%5D=Pre-1800s">Pre-1800s</a>