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When the Declaration of Independence was first published, only two names appeared on the bottom: President of the Continental Congress John Hancock and Charles Thomson. Who was Charles Thomson and what is his connection to the Declaration and to the Great Seal of the United States?

As part of Constitution Week, join us for highlights of the key moments and figures that guided the development of a new nation, from the War for Independence to the ratification of the U.S. Constitution. Look for signs inside Exhibition Hall for program location. 

Connect a key moment in U.S. history with film. No reservations necessary. Please join us!

Discover the story behind an artifact or document on display in Exhibition Hall.  Meet Visitor Center staff at the entrance to Exhibition Hall.

Explore the subjects and materials used to represent American history in Capitol Art. 

Listen to a short story about symbols at the Capitol and then look closely at the Statue of Freedom in Emancipation Hall. No reservations necessary. Please join us!

Create a Capitol craft project. This 1-hour program for young visitors and their accompanying adults meets in the Democracy Lab.

Henry Clay was the first person to lie in state in the Rotunda. Learn more about this ceremony and the establishment of a solemn tradition at the Capitol.

Curator for the Architect of the Capitol Dr. Michele Cohen will provide an overview of the memorial's recent conservation.

Congress has created many federal holidays celebrating different people and events in American history. Learn about one of June's holidays, Flag Day, commemorating the adoption of the flag of the United States.