Delve deeper into the stories behind the people, art, history and grounds.
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History & Discoveries
Today, one cannot go far at the U.S. Capitol without seeing a likeness or connection to President Abraham Lincoln and the tumultuous period he served in Congress and the White House.
When walking across the U.S. Capitol Grounds there is one critter that can consistently be seen out and about – the squirrel. When did squirrels first come to Washington, D.C., and how did they end up here? Take a look through the AOC's historical records to investigate the history of the squirrel at the Capitol.
Benjamin Franklin remains one of the most celebrated figures in American history. The many pieces of art in the United States Capitol Building that include his image reflect his immense impact on our nation's development.
All eyes are on the clocks as we countdown to the New Year. These clocks around the Capitol campus also get plenty of attention throughout the rest of the year.
A potential disaster from centuries ago results in Capitol Building improvements we still see today.
In the bleak winter, when most Washingtonians are looking to stay indoors, the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) Capitol Grounds and Arboretum team still spends a lot of time outside.
To commemorate the birthday of our nation's 20th president, we are highlighting several pieces of art featuring or including Garfield at the U.S. Capitol.
Follow along as we travel to the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest to select the 2025 U.S. Capitol tree for the holiday season. 🎄
A short history of this significant space's special fabric.
The AOC's Capitol Building Sheet Metal Shop craftspeople utilize traditional, handheld tools alongside current technologies to shape, fit and repair metalworks.
Understanding light and how it works is an important aspect of the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) Photography and Technical Imaging Branch day-to-day operations.
The lyrics of this patriotic song are found easily at the U.S. Capitol, including inside the building where a portion of it is painted in the Cox Corridors of the south wing.
Nestled on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol, these trees stand as a symbol of renewal and spring. A few of the oldest recently received some unique preservation care.
See the Capitol campus through the eyes of an AOC Photographer.