As the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the Capitol Visitor Center is also celebrating the 150th anniversary of the creation of the U.S. Capitol Guide Service.

Since 1876, official guides of the U.S. Capitol have served Congress and visitors. From guiding public tours to serving at official events, members of the Guide Service have witnessed history on the nation’s stage.

Explore key moments in the history of the Capitol Guides during their 150 years of service to Congress and the nation.

“The Guides were at the heart of so many of these things that affected the Capitol.”
— Ted Daniel, Visitor Guide and Chief Guide from 1981-2001