The Society has created Where Freedom Speaks, a pageant in which schoolchildren re-enact the laying of the first Capitol cornerstone in 1793, and produced a videotape and lesson plan on the play for distribution in classrooms across the country. For high school students, Outstanding Members of Congress, a publication and forum series, introduces teenagers (in print and face-to-face) to former and current Members of Congress whose life stories reflect the characteristics of leadership and dedication necessary for public service.
Through its internship and scholarly symposia series, the Society has made substantial contributions to our knowledge of the Capitol, its architecture, political institutions, notable Congressional events, and other aspects of U.S. history pertaining to the Capitol.
Expansion of the U.S. Capitol Collection of Documents, Artwork and Furnishings
In the Society's efforts to enhance the substance and beauty of the Capitol's permanent collection, we are constantly searching for treasures that will bring greater knowledge to the American public. Since 1962, the Society has added over 3 million dollars in historic documents, paintings, sculpture, furnishings and scholarship support.
Enhancement of the U.S. Capitol
In 1970, the Society instituted the first of three phases of a mural project to decorate the walls and ceilings of the U.S. Capitol with scenes of our nation's history. Among our most recent contributions are the "Westward Expansion" mural located on the first floor, West Corridor, House of Representatives, and architectural prints of early Capitol construction for the conference rooms in the Senate wing of the Capitol.
Operation of the Visitor Information Kiosk/Gift Shop in the Capitol
The Society serves thousands of visitors to the Capitol daily, providing information to make their trips more enjoyable and memorable. In our effort to distribute educational information on the history of our Nation's Capitol, the Society has created an exclusive line of merchandise that is sold to help support our mission. Among the most popular items is our We, the People Guidebook to the Capitol which has sold over 5 million copies and has been printed in 6 languages.
