Magnificent Intentions

About Magnificent Intentions

Offering a unique glimpse into American history, this is the first book to celebrate the compelling work of the United States’ first federal photographer

Features 160 photographs capturing Washington, DC in the midst of Civil War

“These photographs convey a keen sense that we should never take any of it for granted — neither the buildings nor democracy itself. Through his lens, we see it all coming together, pillar by pillar, frieze by frieze; an immense monument to ourselves.” —Boston Globe

“Thanks to a remarkable new book by Adrienne Lundgren, the true dimensions of Wood’s contribution to American history can be fully appreciated.” —Washington Post

Despite his prolific career as the first US federal photographer, John Wood has been largely forgotten. With 160 stunning, high-resolution images, Magnificent Intentions establishes Wood as a leader among American photographers of the time and provides historical context for his overlooked work and legacy, which includes:

• The first inauguration photo, from James Buchanan’s inauguration in 1857
• Newly uncovered evidence that Wood was the photographer who documented Abraham Lincoln’s first inauguration in 1861, the only surviving photograph of that historic event
• Hundreds of photographs of the construction of public buildings in DC, most notably the U.S. Capitol and the Washington Aqueduct

• Pioneering innovations in the use of photography to duplicate maps and plans during the Civil War
• The first panoramic photos of Washington, DC