Washington, Italy
Franklin Square is less known than McPherson Square to the west and Mount Vernon Square to the east. The statue on the west side near McPherson Square Metro is of Commodore John Barry of the Revolutionary War-era Continental Navy and later the U.S. Navy, known today as the ''Father of the American N
avy.'' The striking red building at the northeast corner of the square is the Franklin School, from which Alexander Graham Bell sent his first wireless message (to 1325 L St NW). The building is owned by the city and development proposals are being considered by the mayor.
Listen to the audio guide for Franklin Square Free on WIP — starts by itself when you arrive, even with the screen off