Tree Dedicated in Memory of Bertie H. Bowman

Several trees on the U.S. Capitol Grounds serve as living memorials. Yesterday, Senate Committee on Foreign Relations Chief Clerk John Dutton and other distinguished guests gathered in the Russell Building courtyard to dedicate a southern live oak tree honoring Bertie H. Bowman.

"Mr. Bowman worked on Capitol Hill for more than 60 years, making him our country's longest-serving African American congressional staffer. He was a devoted public servant who was known throughout the Hill community for his integrity and passion," said Francisco de la Mota, Deputy Director of Capitol Grounds and Arboretum. "The southern live oak is a long-lived, resilient tree — the perfect species to represent Mr. Bowman's many years of service… I am honored to add it to our memorial tree collection."

The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) cares for the historic and picturesque grounds surrounding the U.S. Capitol Building. The grounds were designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted in 1874. Now, 150 years later, the AOC continues to follow his plan for creating an urban oasis in the nation's capital.