Congressional Cemetery was established in 1807 by a group of private citizens. Today, it is owned by nearby Christ Church and run by a nonprofit group dedicated to it's preservation. It is neither owned nor administered by the U.S. Congress but, because so many historical figures are buried or memorialized here, the Congress has from time-to-time voted contributions to the cemetery's upkeep. In the early 19th century, bills appropriated money for "The Congressional Burying Ground" and the name struck. For the most part, however, Congressional Cemetery must rely on private contributions for its preservation.

With your help, Congressional Cemetery can be preserved and once again take its place as a landmark of which Washington and the entire Nation can be proud. Your membership supports …

• Repair and restoration of roadways and carriage paths
• Restoration of historic vaults, mausoleums and grave monuments
• Historical inventory of each grave stone and recording of its condition and inscription
• Digitization of the cemetery's nearly 200 years of valuable historical records
• Improvement of landscaping and grounds including the removal of dead trees
• Planting trees and shrubs appropriate to a Victorian setting
• Educational programs to bring the history of Congressional Cemetery to life for today's students
• Efforts to attract additional funding sources for major projects
• Restoration and maintenance of historic chapel and gatehouse buildings

As a member you receive our quarterly newsletter and announcements to special events. To become a member send your contribution to: