Dedicated to educating the public on the history and heritage of the Capitol and Congress, the US Capitol Historical Society places special emphasis on making the past come alive for young DC citizens. Programs focus on landmark legislation that has shaped our nation, the remarkable art and architecture of the Capitol, and the cultural and ethnic diversity of Congress. The "We the People" Constitution Tour helps eighth-grade students understand their government and take pride in their city; Capitol Literacy activities, youth leadership forums, and traveling exhibits spark an early interest in government for elementary and secondary school students. The Society also works to make the Capitol's rich history more comprehensible to visitors from around the nation. Working closely with the National Archives, Congress, the Library of Congress, and others, the Society stands up for historical literacy. Let's stand with them.
COVID-19 Update:
Already-planned events like the Annual Symposium moved to a virtual format. Some of this has involved a complete rethink--especially delivering its "We the People" program, which had been extremely dependent upon interaction with on-site staff resources at partner organizations. The positive side of this is that programming is more accessible than ever, and the Historical Society will be able to use new skills/partnerships/tools to continue serving the broader public even when it is able to resume in-person events.
Headquarters: DC-Ward 6
Where They Operate: DC-Citywide; MD-Statewide; VA-Statewide; Capitol Hill
Age Groups Served: Youth (5-11); Pre-teen/teen (12-17); Young adult (18-24); Adult (25-49); All
Population(s) Served: Men/Boys; Women/Girls; Students; ; All
Schools They Work In: We work with a variety of DC public and private schools.
- Number of Students served:
1500 - Number of volunteers who work with us annually:
100
Awards & Recognition
National Humanities Medal - 2004
Best Practices and Exemplary Achievements in Not-For-Profit Financial Management - USCHS’s Vice President of Finance was one of the ten finalists - 2006
Our "We the People Constitution Program" was listed as an approved "Short Cycle Assessment" by the D.C. Public School Office of Social Studies in its 8th grade pacing guide - 2008
USCHS's exterior tour of the Capitol was named "Best Specialized Tour of 2009" by Washingtonian Magazine - 2009
Press
- Center News
Sun Jun 1 2014, Brown Rudnick Center for the Public Interest Newsletter
The Brown Rudnick Charitable Foundation is a sponsor of USCHS's We the People Program. See pages 4-5 to learn more about our partnership.
- Hidden Gems -- Tours
Tue Feb 18 2014, Washingtonian Magazine
USCHS's exterior tour of the Capitol on Monday mornings offers a unique look at form, function and magnificent architecture.
- Getting to Know the Capitol
Fri Dec 17 2010, Politico
Many know what goes on inside the Capitol, but they don't know the history of the building. The president of USCHS wants to change that.
Budget (FY2013)
- The current budget for United States Capitol Historical Society is: $3 million or higher
- $1 million to $3 million
- $500k to $1 million
- Less than $500k
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