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View of a walkway and benches on the U.S. Capitol Grounds.

History & Discoveries

Top 5 Spots to Enjoy Spring on the Capitol Campus

Spring in Washington, D.C., is one of the most beautiful times to visit the nation's capital. Learn about five beautiful, and less known spots, to enjoy the warm weather near the U.S. Capitol.
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Behind the Scenes

Senate Office Moves

By elizabeth yoder | February 6, 2019

Every two years, the Senate Office Buildings jurisdiction takes on one of its biggest responsibilities, the Senate election-year office moves.

History & Discoveries

Then & Now: Madison Building

By franklin bradley | April 5, 2017

A look back at the founding of the James Madison Memorial Building.

History & Discoveries

Squirrels on Capitol Grounds

By aoc curator | April 11, 2013

When walking across the 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? Archivist Andria Leo took a look through AOC’s historical records to investigate the history of the squirrel at the Capitol.

History & Discoveries

Presidents in Art

By aoc curator | February 27, 2012

Presidents don't sleep here, but they're honored in art!

Behind the Scenes

Two Thumbs Up for Taking the Edge Off

By franklin bradley | August 9, 2017

A small and seemingly simple tool used by the Architect of the Capitol sheet metal mechanics reduces injuries by saving hands, which is why we give it two thumbs up as a cool tool. This deburring tool removes sharp edges from metal which must be custom fit to unique spaces.

Programs & Events

U.S. Botanic Garden Orchids Gain 600 New Siblings

By devin dotson | August 6, 2019

This newly donated collection — the second largest single donation in U.S. Botanic Garden (USBG) history — adds to the rich heritage and importance of the USBG's orchid collection. The donation came from orchid grower Joe Francis, who lives in northern Virginia.

Projects

Leave No Stone Unrestored

By justin kieffer | January 11, 2018

All around the U.S. Capitol campus, there is something that you cannot avoid seeing as you look at the historic buildings: stone. Stone preservation will continue to be a priority of the Architect of the Capitol as the best way to maintain these buildings is to constantly monitor them.

Behind the Scenes

Meet the Team: AOC University

By carol campos | October 18, 2023

The AOC University team has a clear sense of purpose to make learning fun, increase employee engagement, encourage retention of valued talent and attract the next generation of AOC leaders.

Behind the Scenes

A New Home for a Capitol Treasure

By kristen frederick | January 21, 2011

It took both brawn and brains to move a beautiful (and hefty) treasure when the Magna Carta display was moved from the Capitol Rotunda to its new home in the Capitol Crypt.

Behind the Scenes

Mulch Blower Extraordinaire

By cristin obrien | May 26, 2022

On a sunny morning, employees from Capitol Grounds and Arboretum gathered to see a demonstration of a new tool and hear about its benefits.