The Imperial Season - By William Seale

Reading and travelling are two of life’s great pleasures. Our Partnership with Random House Canada celebrates both. Our well-read friends have provided us with book excerpts and reading recommendations that will transport you to some of Fairmont’s most idyllic destinations. Go ahead, get comfortable and lose yourself in the pages.

William Seale is a historian and the author of The White House: History of an American Idea and several other books on state capitals, courthouses, and historic restoration. He is the editor of White House History, the journal of the White House Historical Association.

Between the Spanish American War and World War I, the thrill of America's new international role held the nation's capital in rapture. Visionaries gravitated to Washington and sought to make it the glorious equal to the great European capitals of the day. Remains of the period still define Washington--the monuments and great civic buildings on the Mall as well as the private mansions built on the avenues that now serve as embassies.

The first surge of America's world power led to profound changes in diplomacy, and a vibrant official life in Washington, DC, naturally followed. In the twenty-five year period that William Seale terms the "imperial season," a host of characters molded the city in the image of a great world capital. Some of the characters are well known, from presidents to John Hay and Uncle Joe Cannon, and some relatively unknown, from diplomat Alvey Adee to hostess Minnie Townsend and feminist Inez Milholland. The Imperial Season is a unique social history that defines a little explored period of American history that left an indelible mark on our nation's capital.

For more information and to purchase The Imperial Season please click here
 

Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown hotel

Located in Washington’s fashionable West End and adjacent to historic Georgetown, Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown hotel welcomes guests in capital style. A sunlit urban oasis that soothes the spirit, the Fairmont, perfect for business or leisure travel, celebrates many local Washington traditions. Known for its engaging service and stylish surroundings, our luxury Washington, D.C. hotel in Georgetown offers 415 spacious guest rooms and suites that provide guests with a welcome retreat. A relaxing visit to our Washington, D.C. hotel’s fitness center, indoor pool and serene courtyard garden also provide guests with an array of rejuvenating experiences.

For more information about Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown, please click here