Arboretum in Northeast Washington in Washington, District of Columbia — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)

Capitol Columns

Photographed By Tom Fuchs, March 2007

1. Capitol Columns Marker

Inscription. These 22 Corinthian sandstone columns were among 24 that were part of the east portico of the United States Capitol. Architect Charles Bullfinch oversaw construction of the portico using a design handed down by his predecessors, William Thornton and Benjamin Henry Latrobe. Completed in 1826, these columns provided the backdrop for presidential inaugurations from 1829 (Andrew Jackson) to 1957 (Dwight Eisenhower), and were the site of many speeches, protests and rallies.

In 1958 the columns were dismantled to make way for the east front extension of the Capitol, which is adorned with marble reproductions.

Restoration of the columns was made possible through the efforts of Ethel Shields Garrett and support from the Friends of the National Arboretum. Garden designer Russell Page selected and designed the new site which was completed and dedicated in 1990.

Erected by Procter & Gamble Co. through Friends of the National Arboretum.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Government & Politics • Horticulture & Forestry.

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In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #07 Andrew Jackson, and the Former U.S. Presidents: #34 Dwight D. Eisenhower series lists. A significant historical year for this entry is 1826.

Location. 38° 54.613′ N, 76° 58.084′ W. Marker is in Northeast Washington in Washington, District of Columbia. It is in Arboretum. Marker can be reached from the intersection of Elipse Road Northeast and Beechwood Road Northeast, on the left when traveling north. Marker is in the National Arboretum. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 3501 New York Avenue Northeast, Washington DC 20002, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. National Capitol Columns (within shouting distance of this marker); Valeriana officinalis (about 600 feet away, measured in a direct line); Dianthus caryophyllus (about 600 feet away); Chichorium intybus (about 600 feet away); Origanum vulgare (about 600 feet away); Artemisia absinthium (about 600 feet away); Dianthus plumarius (about 600 feet away); Matthiola incana (about 600 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Northeast Washington.

More about this marker. The National Arboretum

National Capitol Columns image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Tom Fuchs, March 2007

2. National Capitol Columns

is located in the northeast section of Washington, DC, approximately ten minutes from the Capitol Building. There are two entrances: one at 3501 New York Avenue, NE (U.S. Route 50), and the other at 24th & R Streets, NE, off of Bladensburg Road. The Arboretum grounds are open every day of the year except December 25 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.

Photographed By Tom Fuchs, March 2007

3. National Capitol Columns

Photographed By Tom Fuchs, March 2007

4. National Capitol Columns

Credits. This page was last revised on January 30, 2023. It was originally submitted on April 4, 2007, by Tom Fuchs of Greenbelt, Maryland. This page has been viewed 1,908 times since then and 34 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on April 4, 2007, by Tom Fuchs of Greenbelt, Maryland. • J. J. Prats was the editor who published this page.