Mysteries at the Museum Season 5 Episode 21 Secrets of D.C.

In season 5 episode 21 of Mysteries at the Museum titled "Secrets of D.C.," viewers are taken on a journey through some of the most intriguing stories and artifacts housed in the nation's capital. Host Don Wildman leads this captivating exploration, drawing attention to some of the lesser-known historical mysteries tied to iconic D.C. landmarks and political figures.

In the first segment, Wildman highlights the enigmatic story surrounding the Lincoln Memorial's hidden symbolism. While most visitors may perceive the famous statue of Abraham Lincoln as merely a representation of America's 16th president, this episode delves into the details that lay hidden in plain sight. Wildman aims to uncover the meaning behind some of the more obscure features, from the positioning of Lincoln's hands to the specific number of fasces in the design of the memorial's entrance.

Next up is an examination of a bizarre artifact housed within the Smithsonian Institution's archives - John Wilkes Booth's diary. While the contents of the diary itself may not be anything new to history buffs, the particular copy held in the Smithsonian's collection reveals an intriguing twist. Wildman investigates evidence of writing alterations and a missing page that could hold significant clues to the story surrounding Lincoln's assassination.

In the third segment, Wildman shifts gear and turns his attention to a peculiar piece of furniture displayed in Washington D.C.'s Decatur House museum. The mahogany chair appears unremarkable at first glance, but the story of its origin and history unfolds as the show delves into the life of its original owner, the infamous Stephen Decatur. From Decatur's rise to fame within the Navy to his rocky marriage with Susan Decatur, this segment is a deep dive into the often tumultuous personal life of a public figure.

The show then pivots towards the science of forensics in the next segment, where Wildman discusses the body of President Zachary Taylor, exhumed post-mortem over 140 years after his death. Despite theories of assassination, Wildman explores the science behind examinations of Taylor's remains that ultimately revealed a less sinister cause of death than was speculated.

The final segment explores a quirky political tradition within the U.S. Congress - the "Sharpening of the Pencils" ceremony. Wildman highlights the ceremony's obscure origins and how the tradition has evolved over time into a hilarious, yet meaningful, tribute to democracy and bipartisanship.

Overall, "Secrets of D.C." is a captivating blend of historical fact and intrigue that takes viewers on a journey of discovery through America's most iconic political hub. From hidden Lincoln Memorial symbols to presidential forensics, this episode is sure to entertain and educate viewers who seek to uncover the mysteries of the nation's capital.