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Section, Revised Dome Design for U.S. Capitol. Pen, Ink and watercolor by Thomas U. Walter, 1859.

History & Discoveries

Dancing by Dawn's Early Light

Did you know that the 15,000-pound bronze Statue of Freedom, standing atop the 9 million pounds of cast iron of the U.S. Capitol Dome, dances every day?
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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. Once inside the building, a portion of it can be found painted in the Cox Corridors of the south wing.

History & Discoveries

Unearthing Capitol Hill's Buried History

By Kristen Frederick | October 18, 2024

Visit Congressional Cemetery and discover the many connections the Architect of the Capitol has to this hallowed ground.

History & Discoveries

The Liberty Cap: Symbol of American Freedom

By AOC Staff | July 26, 2024

The 2024 Olympic mascot is a conical cap, the Phryge, a French symbol of freedom, but it symbolized freedom in the United States before the French adopted it.

History & Discoveries

The Original Olmsted Trees

By Capitol Grounds and Arboretum | April 26, 2024

Celebrating the history of tree planting and tree preservation at the U.S. Capitol Grounds by highlighting some of the oldest trees on the grounds.

History & Discoveries

Jefferson Finds Capitol Inspiration in City of Light

By Franklin Bradley | April 12, 2024

Thomas Jefferson, inspired by skylights he saw in Paris, prevailed upon the Architect of the Capitol to include something similar in the U.S. Capitol's new chamber for the House of Representatives. However, all the skylights came to an untimely end.

History & Discoveries

Evolution of Women in Art at the U.S. Capitol

By Michele Cohen, Ph D | March 12, 2024

An in-depth look at the evolution of women in art at the U.S. Capitol. First appearing primarily as allegorical figures representing ideals, not individuals. Later, as women took on more prominent positions in society and won basic rights, greater opportunities and visibility have led to more.

History & Discoveries

Capitol Illumination

By Franklin Bradley | March 6, 2024

The Architect of the Capitol makes the U.S. Capitol Dome, an enduring symbol of democracy recognized throughout the world, visible to all throughout the night. Learn more about the history of lighting this iconic building including the part of the Dome called the "tholos."

History & Discoveries

Artfully Yours, George Washington

By Erin Courtney | February 22, 2024

Our first president had a significant impact on the nation and, while George Washington never actually graced the halls of the United States Capitol, his presence, influence and even his likeness, is everywhere. Approximately 35 pieces of art include Washington's likeness in the U.S. Capitol.

History & Discoveries

How Two Tiny "Houses" Ended Up on the National Mall

By Madeleine Lucchetti | October 10, 2023

The pencil-like shape of the Washington Monument, the grand pediment of the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol Dome are all emblematic shapes of Washington, D.C. But in addition to these architectural juggernauts, two smaller, more understated buildings on the National Mall often draw the eye.

History & Discoveries

A Most Magnificent Ruin: The Burning of the Capitol during the War of 1812

By Curator Division | August 1, 2023

In retaliation for Americans burning the Canadian capital at York (Toronto) on April 27, 1813, British troops would later descend on Washington, D.C., setting fire to much of the city. Follow the path the British took in 1814 to burn the U.S. Capitol and learn more about damage done to this historic building.

History & Discoveries

Leaves of Green: Capitol's Mature Trees Offer Big Payouts

By Madeleine Lucchetti | April 28, 2023

This Arbor Day, we celebrate the Capitol Grounds and Arboretum team's continued efforts to preserve and protect Olmsted's legacy — one of longstanding stewardship that's paying off every day.