Delve deeper into the stories behind the people, art, history and grounds.

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A view of the Capitol after the British burning on the 24th August 1814.

History & Discoveries

Fires, Flight, Flag: The Story of the Star-Spangled Banner

When British troops burned the U.S. Capitol and White House during the War of 1812, three lesser-known elements of American history came together.
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History & Discoveries

Artfully Yours, Benjamin Franklin

By Erin Courtney | January 12, 2026

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.

History & Discoveries

Around the Clocks

By Sarah Davis | December 29, 2025

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.

History & Discoveries

Artfully Yours, James Garfield

By AOC Staff | November 19, 2025

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.

Behind the Scenes

Tools of the Trade: Sheet Metal

By Madeleine Lucchetti | July 22, 2025

The AOC's Capitol Building Sheet Metal Shop craftspeople utilize traditional, handheld tools alongside current technologies to shape, fit and repair metalworks.

History & Discoveries

Capitol Lyrics: "America the Beautiful"

By Sarah Davis | July 1, 2025

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.

Behind the Scenes

The People's Gardens

By AOC Staff | April 14, 2025

Blooming Beauty Around the Capitol Campus

Behind the Scenes

Photography and Technical Imaging Branch Marks 75th Anniversary

By Michael Dunn, Chief Of Photography | December 5, 2024

Recent historical research has confirmed that the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) is home to the first federal government photography office, what is today called the AOC Photography and Technical Imaging Branch (PTIB).