This site is a collaborative project between the Office of the Historian and the Clerk of the House's Office of Art and Archives. Together, the offices serve as the House’s institutional memory, a resource for Members, staff, and the general public.
The Office of the Historian studies and documents the rich history of the United States House of Representatives as a resource for Members, staff, scholars, the media, and the public. It both serves as the House’s institutional memory and strives to inspire greater understanding about that body’s central role in U.S. history.
The Office of Art and Archives curates the House Collection, which encompasses the entire sweep of the institution’s history, from the laying of the Capitol’s cornerstone to the present day. The office provides information and guidance on the collection for members and staff, the media, scholars, and the general public.
The Archives staff process the official records of the House and oversee their eventual safe transfer to the National Archives, help House committees and officers identify records for permanent retention, and provide management advice to Members for their congressional papers.
The oral history program of the U.S. House of Representatives provides detailed descriptions of legislative processes and procedures, as well as recollections about the evolving nature of the institution. The interviews add a personal element to the often unfamiliar and complicated inner workings of Congress.
While many images on this Web site are in the public domain, some may be restricted by copyright. Find out more and download a form to request a reproduction here.
The Offices of History, Art & Archives offer internships to qualified students on a rotating basis. We encourage interested students to review the opportunities and necessary steps for these highly competitive internships.
