In 1807 a burial ground for citizens in the east end of the new federal city was founded. In the first five years, 13 members of Congress, two vice presidents, and numerous military and government officials were interred, along with a number of ordinary citizens.  Today over 55,000 people rest at Congressional Cemetery and their stories are part of our American History. 

While Congressional is becoming an active burial ground again, we honor the memory of those interred here through personal and online tours, audio stories, and histories. Enjoy your tour.

Congressional Cemetery - for presidents and residents alike.

Welcome to Historic Congressional Cemetery

Welcome to the new website for Congressional Cemetery.  The Association for the Preservation of Historic Congressional Cemetery maintains and operates the 35+ acres, 14,000 headstones, and burial place of over 55,000 people.  Part of our mission is to share their stories.  You can find an individual with the "Who's Buried Here?" box on the right side.  You can hear audio stories and read bios on some of our famous "residents" in the walking tour section, and see our efforts in stone and vault preservation.  Take a look around, and enjoy your visit.

 

 

Latest News

  • HCC included in National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

    The National Park Service has honored us with inclusion in the National Underground Railroad Network To Freedom.  The cemetery is officially recognized as the Burial Sites of William Boyd and David A. Hall at Historic Congressional Cemetery.  A big thank you goes to HCC historian Sandy Schmidt, who tirelessly documented the significance of our site.

  • August 22, 2010 10:00 am Burning of Washington Walking Tour to Restore a Patriot's Tombstone

    Led by award-winning author Anthony S. Pitch and based on his acclaimed book The Burning of Washington: The British Invasion of 1814.  The tour is limited to 50 people (pets welcome) $20 each.  For reservations and payment call 202-543-0539 or click here.

  • Congressional Cemetery begins first marketing campaign in 40 years

    If you live on Capitol Hill you probably read the Hill Rag. Check out a new ad every month.  Congressional Cemetery is again selling cemetery sites.