Featured Programming

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From Freedom’s Shadow

African Americans & the U.S. Capitol The cruel irony of this nation’s founding and the U.S. Capitol is that both were made possible by the enslavement of African Americans.

We the People Hub

Enhancing Civics Teaching & Learning Engage directly with the national institutions that exist to serve you! Explore free resources to deepen your students' understanding of civic rights, responsibilities, and the U.S. Constitution. The Hub offers videos, activities, quizzes, and lesson plans for every learning style.

About Us

Mission & History: Fred Schwengal

Discover the heart of American history with the U.S. Capitol Historical Society! Founded in 1962, the U.S. Capitol Historical Society has proudly worked to preserve and share the history of the Capitol, the Congress, and the people who work therein. As a nonpartisan, educational 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the Society was chartered by Congress in 1978, in part, “to foster and increase an informed patriotism.” In service of this mission, the Society conducts historical tours of the Capitol Building, hosts both virtual and in-person public history programming, publishes scholarly research in various aspects of Capitol History, coordinates a digital civics education resource hub for teachers, manages a renowned civics education field trip program for Title I D.C. public school students, and commissions works of fine art for the Capitol collections.

Experiencing History | Discover, Engage, Support

Civic Education Programs and Resources

Empower your students with a deeper understanding of civic rights, responsibilities, and the Constitution. Explore our We the People Hub for free lesson plans, classroom activities, primary source analysis, and a forum to connect with fellow educators. We're your free source for high-quality civic education!

2024 U.S. Capitol Jeweled Snowflake Ornament

This year's U.S. Capitol Historical Society annual metal ornament embraces the spirit of American history and pays homage to the grandeur of the US Capitol building. This enchanting piece captures the essence of Washington, D.C.'s winter wonder.

Historian Led Capitol Tours

The Society offers historian-led tours exclusively as part of our membership program. Discover our Capitol’s vast history as you explore the magnificent building where some of the most pivotal moments in American history took place. Led by our knowledgeable and passionate volunteers, this captivating experience offers an insider’s look at this world-famous building.

Support the Society​

Supporting our public history and civic education programs has never been easier. Whether you choose to join the Society as a Member or make a tax-deductible donation, your contribution promises a lasting influence. Explore cost-effective ways to maximize your support for our organization now!