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

Subscribe to receive Blog updates via email.

Programs & Events

Capturing Autumn

Michael Dunn, Architect of the Capitol's (AOC) chief of photography, draws upon his many years of experience to share tips for photographing the U.S. Capitol Grounds in fall.
Background Image
Behind the Scenes

Tools of the Trade: House Carpentry Branch Measures Up

By Sarah Davis | April 8, 2026

The carpentry workers, wood crafters and locksmiths of the House Office Buildings complete a wide range of projects from installing cabinetry to hanging pictures to replacing missing door pieces — creating a place of lasting memories in historic spaces for those they serve.

History & Discoveries

Artfully Yours, Robert Fulton

By AOC Staff | February 24, 2026

To celebrate 75 years of Engineers Week, we are highlighting art in the U.S. Capitol that honors Fulton (1765-1815), an American engineer and inventor, plus the innovation he is most associated with: steam power.

History & Discoveries

Lincoln and the Capitol

By AOC Staff | February 12, 2026

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.

History & Discoveries

Squirrels on Capitol Grounds

By Curator Division | January 21, 2026

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.

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