Capitol Conversations

WEDNESDAYS AT 2 p.m. -- Join our engaging guides and visitor services team on Zoom for Capitol Conversations – live, interactive, virtual discussions about the U.S. Capitol. During Capitol Conversations, our staff will discuss some of the U.S. Capitol’s historic spaces, artwork, artifacts and statues.

Visit the Online Gift Shop for the books and other materials mentioned during Capitol Conversations.

To request an accommodation to participate in a Capitol Conversation, please email your request to AccessibilityRequests@saa.senate.gov at least five business days in advance of the presentation date.

Wednesday October 9 - John Wood: Early Capitol Photographer

John Wood photographed the Capitol Extension of the 1850s. Learn more from Chief of the AOC Photo and Technical Imaging Branch Michael Dunn, AOC Senior Photography Archivist Leslie Matthaei, and author and Library of Congress Photography Conservator Adrienne Lundgren about his pioneering work in documenting an exciting chapter of Capitol history.

Registration: https://aocgovus.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vJItd-GpqTMrGxLwHgWD1iZmxA9pQTViiDM

Wednesday October 16 - Horse Depictions in the Capitol

Horses are represented in many Capitol artworks. Join our guides for a look at equestrian depictions, including specific individuals and their horse companions, and a discussion of what the artists intended by the horses depicted.

Registration: https://aocgovus.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vJItdeqprj4iHzIBw1nf6kZHOncL4xhPC9c

Wednesday October 23 - Mr. Edison Goes to Washington

Prolific inventor Thomas Edison is one of Ohio’s statues in the National Statuary Hall Collection. Join us to learn more about Edison’s life and legacy.

Registration: https://aocgovus.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vJIsdu-uqT0oHAp82crqGjh51jvJHP60XTA

Wednesday October 30 - The Death and Funeral of President James A. Garfield

James A. Garfield was the second president to lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda. In the wake of his death, citizens gathered in the Capitol to organize a fund for a suitable memorial to him. Hear the story of their actions and the role of Congress in the quest to honor President Garfield in Washington. 

Registration: https://aocgovus.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vJIsce2pqjsvGXkkGW0AeCJRjZ43lsGGBHM