The 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree will arrive Friday, 11/22. Lighting Ceremony 12/3. Details.
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How The Capitol Crypt Got Its Name
By Curator Division | December 14, 2022
Is anyone buried in the U.S. Capitol? The term "crypt" has long referred to a space beneath the main floor of a church or a chamber in a mausoleum. For many of us it suggests somber, stony silence and perhaps dusty coffins. The Capitol Crypt, however, is a different thing altogether.
An Olmsted Christmas at the U.S. Capitol
By Jim Kaufmann | November 14, 2022
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.
Haunted Halls of Congress: 5 Creepy Capitol Legends
By Erin Courtney | October 31, 2022
Given that the United States Capitol was once expected to be the final resting place for George Washington, replete with a crypt, should we be surprised that multiple Capitol-related ghost stories exist? Discover the myths, mysteries and folklore of this historic American building.
Cannon Light Fixture Restoration
By Aimee Jorjani | September 27, 2022
While light fixtures are like jewelry to a room, they can also set a tone for the significance of the space. Naturally, they also provide illumination to enable work and safe movement.
24 Hours at the Capitol Power Plant
By Erin Nelson | September 19, 2022
The mission of the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) continues year-round, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our buildings never sleep, and the work never stops. This is especially true for the dedicated workers at the Capitol Power Plant.
Cultivating a New Agriculture Exhibit at the U.S. Botanic Garden
By Devin Dotson | September 14, 2022
Visitors can explore the galleries and gardens to learn how inventive ideas in agriculture, both scientific and social, sustain and enrich life and how growing and cooking food connects people with each other and their communities.
The Art of Walking Across History
By Cristin O'Brien | June 1, 2022
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.
Mulch Blower Extraordinaire
By Cristin O'Brien | 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.
Retro-Commissioning: Big Energy Savings For Big Buildings
By AOC Staff | May 16, 2022
Honoring Service, Sacrifice and a Unique Partnership
By AOC Staff | May 11, 2022
Celebrating the men and women of the United States Capitol Police who put their lives on the line to protect America's beacon of democracy.
U.S. Botanic Garden Taps New Technologies To Grow Plant Education
By Devin Dotson | May 3, 2022
Top 5 Spots to Enjoy Spring on the Capitol Campus
By AOC Staff | March 29, 2022
Spring in Washington, D.C., is one of the most beautiful times to visit the nation's capital; it is also the busiest. Learn about five beautiful, and less known spots, to enjoy the warm weather near the U.S. Capitol including where you can see more than 100 cherry blossom trees.
Employees Lead U.S. Botanic Garden Horticultural Renovations
By Devin Dotson | February 15, 2022
Several U.S. Botanic Garden (USBG) employees recently led projects inside the Conservatory to improve the growing spaces and showcase more of the permanent plant collection.
Surviving to Thriving
By Erin Courtney | February 8, 2022
Losing one family member is tough. How does anyone deal with multiple losses? Architect of the Capitol employee Milton Lee Dennis has survived a lifetime of losses.