United States House of Representatives: History, Art, & Archives
Discover the rich heritage of “the People's House” and its central role in U.S. history since 1789. Explore its unique story and the men and women who have shaped it. Browse its collections. Access historical data and other research resources.

Whereas: Stories from the People’s House

February 27, 2026

“This Great Gathering of the Nation”: Black Representatives and the 1876 Centennial Celebration

One hundred years after the Declaration of Independence announced to the world a new experiment in democratic governance, the Centennial celebration gave America the opportunity to highlight what South Carolina Representative Richard Harvey Cain called “our common brotherhood.”
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"Making Their Voices Heard"
The Honorable John R. Lewis, U.S. Representative of Georgia

Oral History

"Making Their Voices Heard"

The Honorable John R. Lewis describes the potential for popular protest to shape decisions on Capitol Hill.
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About The Offices

This site is a collaborative project between the Office of the Historian and the Clerk of the House's Office of Art and Archives. The offices preserve, collect, and interpret the heritage of the U.S. House, serving as the institution’s memory and a resource for Members, staff, and the general public.

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Historical Highlight

Four Puerto Rican Nationalists Opened Fire Onto the House Floor March 1, 1954

Four Puerto Rican Nationalists Opened Fire Onto the House Floor

President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Final Address to a Joint Session March 1, 1945

President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Final Address to a Joint Session

Featured Collection Object

Featured Oral History

Singing in the House Chamber

Singing in the House Chamber

Featured Records

Land Ordinance of 1785

Land Ordinance of 1785

Letter Supporting Voting Rights Act

Letter Supporting Voting Rights Act

Office of the Historian: history@mail.house.gov
Office of Art & Archives, Office of the Clerk: art@mail.house.gov, archives@mail.house.gov