United States Capitol Historical Society

December 9, 2020

2020 Freedom Award: Dr. Carla Hayden, Librarian of Congress

USCHS presented the 2020 Freedom Award to Dr. Carla Hayden, Librarian of Congress. The accomplished librarian is the first woman and the first African American to serve as the leader of our national library. Under Dr. Hayden’s leadership, the Library of Congress works tirelessly every day to advance public understanding of and appreciation for freedom through making the Library’s vast and diverse collections accessible to its users throughout the country.

June 8, 2020

Launching the Podcast "Shaping History: Women and Capitol Art"

The U.S. Capitol Historical Society, and the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center presented a discussion to celebrate the launch of the podcast Shaping History: Women in Capitol Art. Joined by the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center team that produced this new 10-part series, Janet Clemens and Marcey Frutchey, the panel discussed the podcast and its themes. Curator for the Architect of the Capitol Michele Cohen also joined in to discuss Capitol statues. Shaping History: Women in Capitol Art brings together a rich soundtrack featuring curators, historians, artists, descendants of honored subjects, and eyewitnesses, providing insight that will enhance every visitor’s Capitol experience.

May 8, 2020

Capitol Video Tour: Premiere and Discussion

The U.S. Capitol Historical Society and the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center present a panel discussion and premiere of a video tour of the Capitol. Join U.S. Capitol Historical Society President/CEO Jane Campbell and the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center team that produced this new video tour–Lauren Windham Roszak, Marcey Frutchey, and Emily Boisvert–as we explore what’s being done to continue engaging and educating the public about the Capitol and the role of the U.S. Congress during this unique time in our history. During this webinar, we’ll view the video tour and engage in a discussion and Q&A with our panel.

Want to Support Civic Education?

We believe that every student deserves an education about our nation’s history, that inspires them to be the best citizens they can be, no matter their background. Our “We the People” Constitution Tours™ provide immersive educational experiences for eighth-grade students from D.C. Title I schools, ensuring that students from historically underserved communities can explore the foundations of our democracy firsthand. During the program, students visit important sites related to the Constitution including the George Mason Memorial, the National Archives, the U.S. Capitol Building, and The People’s House: A White House Experience. As the cost of providing these tours continues to rise, your donation will help cover essential expenses, including transportation, lunches, knowledgeable tour guides, and educational materials.

  • A $111 donation covers all expenses for one student, covering all costs associated with the tour.
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  • $325 provides lunches for 25 students during their trip, ensuring they stay energized and engaged.
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  • A donation of $3,880 will sponsor an entire trip for one class.

“We the People,” speaks to the freedoms and responsibilities inherent in the Constitution of the United States of America. For Jim and me, it has been of the greatest importance that all citizens have an understanding of the democratic process and rule of law in order to be active participants in the form of self-governance laid out by the Constitution and Bill of Rights. I believe that my support in Jim’s name of the “We the People” tours is essential for the future of our country.

– Mrs. Penny Morrill on why she supports the “We the People” Constitution Tours

Support Civic Education in 2025

Join us in our mission to educate, inspire, and encourage informed civic participation. By becoming an annual member, your support funds vital programs such as the ‘We the People’ Constitution Tour for DC students, free resources and lesson plans for teachers, and our series engaging virtual and in-person public history events. Together, we will preserve Congress’s history and empower citizens to influence the future of our democracy.

Join Today!

Help preserve and share the history of democracy with a year-end donation! Join as a member today and enjoy unique benefits—all while contributing to our mission of preserving history and promoting civic education.

Donations received by midnight tonight or checks postmarked on or before December 31, 2024, will be applied to the 2024 tax year.