US Capitol Columns Exhibit

These 22 Corinthian sandstone columns were among 24 that were part of the east central portico of the United States Capitol. Architect Charles Bulfinch oversaw the construction of the portico using a design handed down by his predecessors, William Thornton and Benjamin Henry Latrobe. Completed in 1829, these columns provided the backdrop for presidential Inaugurations from 1829 (Andrew Jackson) to 1857 (Dwight Eisenhower), and were the sites of many speeches, protests and rallies.

In 1958 the columns were dismantled to make way for the east front extension of the U.S. Capitol.

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 designated the new site, which was completed and dedicated in 1990.