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.
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History & Discoveries
Displaying 1 - 15 of 283
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.
By erin nelson | July 8, 2024
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.
By carol campos | June 28, 2024
Thanking those who keep our trees thriving.
By Madeleine Lucchetti | June 21, 2024
The experts at the House Mechanic Shop meticulously oversee campus HVAC systems, ensuring building temperatures are optimal for both daily operations and historic preservation.
By aimee jorjani | May 30, 2024
Donna Klee has worked for the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) for more than 10 years and was named the agency's Historic Preservation Officer in the fall of 2023. In this capacity, she works to implement the agency's preservation policy.
By justin kieffer | May 28, 2024
More than 140 years later, the Architect of the Capitol's Summerhouse still offers visitors respite. Recent maintenance efforts will help keep the site around for repeat visitors and first timers alike.
By Madeleine Lucchetti | May 7, 2024
When it comes to preserving the Library of Congress' (LOC) record-breaking collection of more than 175 million items — including books, historical materials and cultural artifacts — the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) staff plays an instrumental role in keeping things cool.
By capitol grounds | 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.
By capitol grounds | April 22, 2024
At the Architect of the Capitol (AOC), the Capitol Grounds and Arboretum team works hard to promote green and sustainable practices around the Capitol campus.
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.
By philip davis | April 3, 2024
In a picturesque marriage of vintage charm and cutting-edge sustainability, the AOC's Capitol Grounds and Arboretum team has unveiled their latest addition to the gardening fleet: a vintage-style electric cargo tricycle.
By michele cohen | 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.
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."
By Madeleine Lucchetti | February 29, 2024
In the bleak winter, when most Washingtonians are looking to stay indoors, the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) Capitol Grounds and Arboretum team still spends a lot of time outside.
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.