In 1793, President George Washington put the first stone in the ground of the U.S. Capitol. In a contest of seventeen entries, the plan submitted by Dr. William Thornton, which resembles the Pantheon in Paris, was chosen. Dr. William Thornton’s idea includes a central portion with wings. Perhaps George Washington thought that the country was growing and the wings would extend out, just like at his house, Mount Vernon. We do not know. We do know that George Washington liked the idea. It would take three more architects, a rebuild after the burning of the wood and copper dome during the British attack in August of 1814, and a final cast iron dome to be built and mounted on the pillars in 1863, upon order of Abraham Lincoln to show that a government was going on, to give faith to the people that the Union was holding in the midst of a terrible war. Some modifications were made in 1958, but the design holds. LIke a star on a hill, with roads going out in all directions, the Capitol stands.
Inside the Capitol there is an empty crypt. This crypt was originally designed for George Washington to rest eternally in the Capitol of the country he worked so hard to create. But George Washington had other plans and desires. He stipulated in his will that he be buried in the family tomb at Mount Vernon. And Martha Washington made sure the instructions in the will were followed.
But the Capitol has so much more to see and learn about. If you take the free tour that is offered, be sure to notice the paintings in the Rotunda. One painting depicts Pocohontas being baptized. Another depicts the surrender of General Cornwallis at Yorktown, Virginia. And you mustn’t miss the painting on the ceiling of hte dome, the “Apotheosis of George Washington” by Constantino Brumidi. Tours are free, last an hour, and require advance registration. No food or drink is allowed and you must pass through security. If you are hungry there is a cafeteria and salad bar with a variety of dishes and beverages. These amenities are located in the Capitol Visitor Center. Notice the statues in Emancipation Hall. They are amazing.