United States Capitol Historical Society

The Grand Plan: President Eisenhower’s Work with Congress to Create Freedom of Movement Across the USA

 

USCHS is proud to join in Ike 
Week, a series of events
 spotlighting the historical legacy of
 our 34th President and culminating in the dedication of the Eisenhower Memorial.

The 2020 National Heritage Lecture will consider one of the most far-reaching accomplishments of mid-20th century American government: The comprehensive and strategic investment in our transportation infrastructure. We will examine the cooperation between the Eisenhower Administration and Congress that addressed the unique economic and defense concerns of a large nation of varied terrain—and created the deeply American concept of the open road in the process.

Program participants include former Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, former FAA Administrator Michael Huerta, and Senior Fellow with the Eno Center for Transportation Jeff Davis. USCHS President and CEO Jane Campbell will interview Davis on his research into recently released Eisenhower papers, and how they illuminate the crafting, legacy and impact of mid-20th century infrastructure policy. The program will include remarks from Members of Congress and moderated audience Q&A.

 

2020 National Heritage Lecture (VIRTUAL EVENT)

Monday, September 14, 2020 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM EDT

 

About the National Heritage Lecture:

The National Heritage Lecture was established in 1991 by the United States Capitol Historical Society, the White House Historical Association, and the Supreme Court Historical Society. Its purpose is to enhance the knowledge and appreciation of the American system of government and the principles upon which it was founded. Hosted in turn by each of the three historical societies, the annual National Heritage Lecture explores one of the three branches of government and the momentous events and personalities associated with its history.

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.