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schooling, but his mathematical prowess and ingenuity are what made him famous. As a young man, he fashioned a wooden clock from his own drawings of pocket watch parts, and this clock kept perfect time throughout his life. He studied astronomy and higher mathematics, and later wrote his famed almanac, proving the equal intelligence of blacks to other races. He was also outspoken about the plight of slaves, and did all he could to enlighten the slavery mindset of the time.

When L'Enfant was dismissed from the project, he presumably took all of his maps and drawings with him. It is a widely held belief that Banneker reproduced these plans from memory, including streets, buildings, and parks. Some would argue that this is merely an urban legend, citing historical evidence that L'Enfant left copies of his map behind, and that Banneker left the project before L'Enfant was dismissed. However, for those who believe, a more in-depth review of Banneker's intellectual feats would suggest that his mind and memory might have been up to the task. (This paragraph is intended to briefly report this controversy, not support either side of it.)

== Summary ==

L'Enfant's vision transformed swamps, fields, rivers, and forests into the bustling, sometimes confusing, yet statuesque metropolis of today. Many streets and contemporary structures have been added since the plans of L'Enfant and Ellicott were originally finished, and the federal city certainly shows signs of age. However, the layout of Washington, D.C. remains true to the original plan, reminding visitors and locals alike that the passage of time can still allow the richness of history to shine through.

Learn more about this author, Len Morse.
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