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

July 9, 2024

The Records of a Divided Country: Civil War and Reconstruction (1850–1877)

By the mid-19th century, the struggle over slavery reached a boiling point in the United States. The American people, as well as their Representatives and Senators, clashed over slavery for years before the Civil War erupted in 1861. Following the war, during the period known as Reconstruction, Congress attempted to rebuild and reunite the country. Learn more about this contentious period with these records from the House of Representatives.
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House History

Congressional Baseball Game 1956

The 1956 Congressional Baseball Game at Griffith Stadium was featured in the 1950's Department of Defense "Information & Education Sportsreel." The Republicans won the five inning game with a score of 8 to 7.
Source: National Archives Records Administration
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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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Featured Collection Object

Featured Oral History

The Long Struggle for Representation: Oral Histories of African Americans in Congress

The Long Struggle for Representation: Oral Histories of African Americans in Congress

Featured Records

Navigation of Mississippi River

Navigation of Mississippi River

Normal and Industrial Schools Bill

Normal and Industrial Schools Bill

Historical Highlight

The Sedition Act of 1798 July 10, 1798

The Sedition Act of 1798

The Legislation Placing “In God We Trust” on National Currency July 11, 1955

The Legislation Placing “In God We Trust” on National Currency

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