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Capitol Columns – Pic of the Week

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Our picture of the week comes from the U.S. National Arboretum, where among the flowers, trees, and other natural wonders, you will find a man-made treasure: the Capitol Columns.

22 Corinthian sandstone columns stand in front of a bright blue sky with puffy white clouds.
Capitol Columns at the National Arboretum. Photo by Robert Brammer.

These 22 Corinthian sandstone columns were a part of the U.S. Capitol from 1828 to 1958, and were, as the sign reads “…the site of many speeches, protests and rallies.” These original columns were replaced during a 1958 renovation of the Capitol and moved to the arboretum in the 1980s.

Sign at the Capitol Columns describing the history of the columns.
Capitol Columns sign. Photo by Robert Brammer.
22 Corinthian sandstone columns stand in the grass at the National Arboretum, Washington, D.C.
Capitol Columns at the National Arboretum. Photo by Robert Brammer.

Have you had a chance to visit the Capitol Columns? Let us know in the comments.

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Comments (2)

  1. I have not had the opportunity to visit the National Arboretum, but after reading this blog it is going on my “must see” list. The photo evokes Greco-Roman ruins. I am curious as to the story of how the columns got to the arboretum. Where were they stored in the years from 1958 to the 1980s? Did they narrowly miss being discarded or demolished? I think there must be a story there. Please fill us in! Thanks!

    • Sadly, I was unable to find any information about where the columns were stored before they came to the Arboretum in the 1980s, thanks to Arboretum benefactress Ethel Garrett.

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