Delve deeper into the stories behind the people, art, history and grounds.

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Programs & Events

Capturing Autumn

Michael Dunn, Architect of the Capitol's (AOC) chief of photography, draws upon his many years of experience to share tips for photographing the U.S. Capitol Grounds in fall.
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History & Discoveries

Artfully Yours, John Adams

By Sarah Davis | October 30, 2018

Similar to many other Founding Fathers, John Adams appears in several pieces of art throughout the United States Capitol. He played a large role in the Declaration of Independence, and art involving the signing of this document is where he can be found the most.

Behind the Scenes

Making Heads Safer, One Bump Cap at a Time

By Cristin O'Brien | July 11, 2018

Hard hats are designed to protect from falling objects, not bumps in narrow spaces. A bump cap resembles an elongated baseball cap with a short brim. Inside are squares of gray foam in a checkerboard pattern. This lightweight cap is the key to head protection in tight spaces at the U.S. Capitol.

History & Discoveries

Profile in History: Job W. Angus

By Franklin Bradley | June 28, 2018

A profile story on Job W. Angus, who built multiple structures for ceremonies held for Abraham Lincoln's time as president in Washington, D.C. from his inauguration ballroom to the catafalque for his Lying in State.

Behind the Scenes

By the Numbers: Capitol Visitor Center

By Laura Trivers | June 21, 2018

The Capitol Visitor Center serves as the main entrance for visitors to the U.S. Capitol. It is a facility rich with informational exhibits, two gift shops, a cafe and two orientation theaters. Find out more about the age of the facility, its hours and the number of people who have entered.

History & Discoveries

Calm and Collected Waters

By Sarah Davis | June 20, 2018

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.

From the Architect

Architect's Notebook: Finding Comfort In Balance

By Stephen T Ayers | June 12, 2018

Stephen Ayers, 11th Architect of the Capitol, describes how order, balance and proportion are all achieved through architecture in the Library of Congress' Main Reading Room. The Thomas Jefferson Building is one of his favorite examples of classical architecture on the U.S. Capitol Campus.

Doing Good

Serving with Encouragement

By Laura Condeluci | May 16, 2018

LaTisha Williams finds and gives encouragement by serving with her community church.

History & Discoveries

The $28,000,000 Question

By Michele Cohen, Ph D | April 17, 2018

Solving the mystery of numbers inscribed on a block of the Senate pediment.

History & Discoveries

Bold Legacies Endure

By Franklin Bradley | March 30, 2018

A story highlighting two women artists of the National Statuary Hall Collection as we celebrate Women's History Month. Sculptors Joy Flinsch Buba and Anne Whitney both have works of art on display in the U.S. Capitol with the Florence Sabin statue and the Samuel Adams statue, respectively.

History & Discoveries

Then & Now: Capitol Building Superintendent's Office

By Erin Nelson | March 27, 2018

Take a look back at the U.S. Capitol's baking operations during the Civil War. When Congress was not in session, the House and Senate Chambers were used to house troops, the Rotunda became a makeshift hospital and bakeries were created in the basement and terraces in the center of the building.

History & Discoveries

Congress' Role in Time

By Matt Ericson | March 21, 2018

Why change our clocks twice a year, spring forward and fall back? The idea of saving the daylight goes back centuries. The Capitol Visitor Center hosted a workshop to think about these issues and learn about Congress' role in time including the Standard Time Act of 1918 and the Uniform Time Act.

Behind the Scenes

Looking Ahead for Talent — Finding the Next Win

By AOC Staff | March 19, 2018

Not all internships are created equal. The Architect of the Capitol strives to make the intern experience substantive, challenging and rewarding. And that philosophy was evident during the piloting of the AOC's new work-for-credit intern program in the House Office Buildings.

From the Architect

Architect's Notebook: A Washington Connection

By Stephen T Ayers | March 13, 2018

Two pieces of art featuring George Washington have a special connection to Stephen Ayers' time serving as Architect of the Capitol. One is a sculpture in the Old Senate Chamber and the other, a portrait by William Dunlap, is one of the oldest works of art in the U.S. Capitol.

History & Discoveries

Symbolism Roars to Life on Capitol Hill

By Marty Shore | March 6, 2018

Imagery of the lion is well-represented in the art and architectural details of the U.S. Capitol campus in Washington, D.C. Historically, lions were used in architectural ornamentation to provide a sense of strength, majesty and awe, especially on public buildings.

Behind the Scenes

Cool Tools: The Ditch Witch

By Erin Courtney | March 1, 2018

This year's snow removal training exercise included a friendly competition between offices and jurisdictions on a new piece of equipment.