United States Capitol dome facts for kids
The United States Capitol dome is a very famous part of the United States Capitol building. It's the large, round roof that sits high above the main hall, called the Rotunda. This amazing dome is a symbol of American democracy and is seen by many visitors every year.
The dome is super tall, reaching about 288 feet (88 meters) into the sky. It's also quite wide, measuring about 96 feet (29 meters) across. Imagine a giant ball sitting on top of a building!
A talented architect named Thomas U. Walter designed this impressive structure. He was the fourth person to hold the job of Architect of the Capitol. The dome was built a long time ago, between 1855 and 1866. It cost a lot of money back then, over a million dollars!
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What is the Capitol Dome?
The Capitol Dome is the most recognizable part of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C. It's not just a roof; it's a huge, round structure that covers the Rotunda. The Rotunda is a large, circular room inside the Capitol where important events happen.
Who Designed the Capitol Dome?
The person who designed the current Capitol Dome was Thomas U. Walter. He was a very important architect. His design made the dome much larger and more grand than the original one. He wanted it to look strong and impressive, just like the country it represented.
When Was the Capitol Dome Built?
Building the dome was a big project that took many years. Construction started in 1855 and finished in 1866. This means it was built during a very important time in American history, including the American Civil War. Even during the war, work continued on the dome as a sign of the nation's strength and hope for the future.
Why Was a New Dome Needed?
The original Capitol building had a smaller, older dome. As the United States grew, the Capitol building also needed to expand. The old dome just wasn't big enough to fit with the new, larger wings of the building. So, they decided to build a much bigger and more impressive dome that we see today.
Images for kids
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1859 drawing showing the inside of the dome and its support
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The famous painting Apotheosis of Washington inside the dome
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Abraham Lincoln's inauguration in 1861, with the dome still being built
