In an open field in Northeast DC, stands a beautiful piece of the past. 22 sandstone Corinthian columns that were once a part of the United States Capitol building now have their permanent home in the National Arboretum. The iconic columns make for a gorgeous photo op and a unique look at history.
The columns were part of the east portico of the US Capitol building in 1828 prior to the completion of the Capitol dome.
When the columns were originally removed in 1958, there was no where for them to be moved so the columns were put into storage on the banks of the Anacostia River.
The columns are made of Virginia limestone and their ornate design includes beautiful detailed leaf patterns, scrolls and flower motifs. They sit on foundation made from the stones of the steps of the east side of the Capitol.
Interestingly enough, only 22 of the original 24 columns from the Capitol are in the Ellipse Meadow. The remaining two are cracked in half and you can find them in the Arobretum’s Azalea Collection.
The rare combination of open land and stately columns make the Capitol Columns one of the most photographed attractions in the arboretum and a must-see for any DC bucket list.
