Capitol Columns

These 22 Corinthian sandstone columns were among 24 that formed the east portico of the United States Capitol. Architect Charles Bullfinch oversaw construction of the portico using a design handed down by his predecessors, William Thornton and Benjamin Henry Latrobe. Completed in 1826, the columns provided the backdrop for presidential inaugurations from 1829, with Andrew Jackson, to 1957, with Dwight Eisenhower, and were the site of many speeches, protests, and rallies. In 1958 the columns were dismantled to make way for the east front extension of the Capitol, which is adorned with marble reproductions. Restoration of the columns was made possible through the efforts of Ethel Shields Garrett and support from the Friends of the National Arboretum. Garden designer Russell Page selected and designed the new site, which was completed and dedicated in 1990.

Washington, District of Columbia · United States