The experts at the House Mechanic Shop meticulously oversee campus HVAC systems, ensuring building temperatures are optimal for both daily operations and historic preservation.
Delve deeper into the stories behind the people, art, history and grounds.
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Behind the Scenes
Hanami on the Hill: Cherry Blossom Season on U.S. Capitol Grounds
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.
Behind the Scenes
Picture Perfect: Capturing Iconic Images of the U.S. Capitol Grounds
See the Capitol campus through the eyes of an AOC Photographer.
History & Discoveries
A Hallowed Figure in American Art and Culture: the Bald Eagle
The bald eagle is painted, sculpted and carved throughout the Capitol campus. Its white head, wide wingspan and gnarled talons are ubiquitous.
Behind the Scenes
Photography and Technical Imaging Branch Marks 75th Anniversary
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).
Projects
House Hearing Room Renovation
If you've ever toured a historic building, you might have thought — or heard your tour guide remark — "Wow, if only these walls could talk!" In one Rayburn House Office Building hearing room, they can.
History & Discoveries
Unearthing Capitol Hill's Buried History
Visit Congressional Cemetery and discover the many connections the Architect of the Capitol has to this hallowed ground.
History & Discoveries
The U.S. Capitol Rotunda: Celebrating 200 Years as the Heart of American Democracy
The Rotunda was completed under the direction of Charles Bulfinch by the time of the visit of the Marquis de Lafayette in October 1824.
From the Architect
Meet the Architect: Q&A with Thomas E. Austin
Get to know the newest Architect of the Capitol.
Behind the Scenes
Meet the Team: Photography and Technical Imaging Branch
The Photography and Technical Imaging Branch (PTIB) is responsible for the documentation of the historical buildings and grounds under the care of the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) and capturing the historic events within those spaces.
Programs & Events
Branching Out: A Search for Christmas in Alaska's Rainforest
While record setting heat and humidity engulfed the nation's capital this summer, the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) celebrated Christmas in July by embarking on an adventure to select the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree.
History & Discoveries
The Liberty Cap: Symbol of American Freedom
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.
Behind the Scenes
Leading by Example
Charles "Doc" Wheatley, Assistant Supervisor of the Capitol Building Plumbing Shop's evening shift, has been a constant presence on the Capitol campus since 1987. That's when he accepted his first government position and began a decades-long career serving this treasured institution.
Behind the Scenes
Arborists on Campus — The Art of Tree Care
Thanking those who keep our trees thriving.
Behind the Scenes
Ducts in a Row
The experts at the House Mechanic Shop meticulously oversee campus HVAC systems, ensuring building temperatures are optimal for both daily operations and historic preservation.