The New York herald. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1840-1920, 1859-10-17

WASHINGTON, Oct. IA, 1859.
Filling up Of "e Magnificent Distomces'- Construction Of
Neso and Renovation Of Old Observation-Disclosures in the
Wosh,ngton Belg7ara--lncrease of Educational Fdeii
Fashionable Schools, &C., dc.
During the recess of Congress the arstocratic fau
pourgs Of Washington have undergone pretty thorough
renovation. Many and elegant houses have been
completed, nearly So while others have been freshly
vamped up, painted, papcred and whtcwashed and
mechanics yet have their hands full Of work. Several
edifces of stately proportions greet the sight, and
Others well known to the citizens and soourners here
the former abodes Of hospitality and luxury, being
modernzed and rejuvenated by propretors. These
changes 80 numerous that hardly knows where to
begin description or list Of them.
In and streets, the real Belgray.l Of Washington,
very great improvements noticeable Lord Lyons oc
ecupies the former residence of Lord Napier, which
has almost to be considered as the fixed
home Of tho British Legation. This establishment
was well arranged under tho former tenant that but
few alterations rendered necessary On the oppo
site side of the fine of modern brick houses
has sprung up, which nearly ready for occupancy.
They are elegant and commodious. Adjoining this block
is what is known here the Ellet House, recently pur
chased by Commodore Magruder Of the navy who
engaged in adding to its internal attractions Baron do
Stoeckie became the purchaser time since Of tho
well known residence OF Mr.. Elisha Riggs on street. and
he 10 now moving into it, Is a snowy house, but pro-
sens striking contrast TO ts next door neighbor tho
grand and substantial mansion owned and occupied by
Mr.. George Riggs. Passing Corcorans the same
street, you como upon stylish and convenient house,
ouik for Mr. Hoover late Marshal OF this district, and
nearly ready for occupancy Colonel Bcrre the Mayor,
mas Just taken possession Of one Of the best houses in
Guy, out for him in II street, and in his immediate neigh
pornood are some houses the course Of constuc
nue. palaces W. 'V ' ~
the members Of the Cabinet will continue in their pre-
sen. locauons with the exception of Mr. Cobb who il is
nnlsncu menr and Sixteenth streets An excellent
new mouse IN street, just finished has been
rented 70 Jefferson Davis, and, on the same
square, the imposing and handsome brown front
quit ny captain sanger, and recently oc,upicd nv
him, mas passed by purchase into tho hands Of
the wealthy Mr. Goodyear OF your city. who intends IN
take up his residence here wy wa" "''"us W
Washington ia daily receiving ACQUISITIONS or vveo,,,,
men, and Is now exhibiting unusual signs OF
and activity. am very happy to observe that with a
the other improvements the education IL moi Far
gotten. Many good schools have recently been established
here and In the neighborhood There is now no longer
any necessity for sending children to Northern
schools doubtful policy at best. One seminary for
young ladies' In particular, has recently sprung into life
here which promises all the advantages Northern or
European education and which Is destined to prove
great success refer to that or Mrs Smith, formerly OF
Mystic Hail. Massachusetts. This institution was na
guraed last week under very aattcng auspices and with