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History & Discoveries
The Senate Office Buildings Painting and Refinishing Branch gives hands-on attention to help blend vintage and new into a cohesive collection.
Fountains and formal pools of water abound on the U.S. Capitol campus in Washington, D.C. These small areas of urban "blue space" may provide other benefits though, including mental tranquility and increased creativity. Here is a collection of seven water features that inspire.
Walk in the footsteps of the masons and laborers who worked the quarry at Government Island in Aquia, Virginia, to gather stone for the U.S. Capitol more than 200 years ago. Pierre L'Enfant purchased the area on behalf of the federal government in 1791 to build the nation's new capital city.
With the recent Kennedy Center announcement that the award-winning musical "Hamilton" is coming to Washington, D.C., the options to explore and experience one of our Founding Fathers in our nation's capital has never been better.
A celebration of the passenger elevator's birthday leads to a search for the U.S. Capitol's historic first elevator. Follow along as we investigate through clues from the archives including correspondence in the 1870s, records, books, floor plans and other reports.
A 30 percent reduction in energy consumption is a major accomplishment. Take a look back at how we got there, and find out where we're going.
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.
The Capitol Power Plant has undergone significant changes as new buildings were built, and more modern and efficient equipment was installed, but what hasn't changed is the commitment of the staff. The plant's staff are highly-skilled and extremely dedicated — many have worked there for decades.
Visitors to the Capitol are often drawn to the "big ticket" items, but there are several other must-see items you should check out when visiting the U.S. Capitol Building.
The preservation of the Cannon House Office Building's historic windows and doors allows the building to retain much of its original character and charm, while increasing the building's functionality for those who work and visit within its walls. Learn more about the process.
A National Safety Month Reminder: Whether you work on Capitol Hill, are a regular visitor or you are planning to visit for the first time, remember to stay mindful of your surroundings — it is not only safer, you may also spot beautiful things in unexpected places.
The Architect of the Capitol selects the annual U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree in consultation with the USDA Forest Service. Follow along as our Director of Capitol Grounds and Arboretum travels to the National Forests in North Carolina to select the 2022 tree.
During a recent renovation at the U.S. Capitol Building, members of the Architect of the Capitol uncovered a long-forgotten painting of the famous horse, Blackjack. During his tenure, Blackjack took part in the funerals of Presidents Hoover, Kennedy and Johnson as well as General MacArthur.
Preparing the Christmas tree is a true team effort for the Architect of the Capitol. Find out how we work around the clock from tree selection to arrival, decoration and lighting.
Our nation’s third president has his successes, as well as himself, memorialized in more than 10 pieces of art in the U.S. Capitol Building.