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Stone from all over the United States Materials from all over the United States are being used in the construction of the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC). To follow in the tradition of the Capitol, many different kinds of stone from a variety of states will become part of what you will find in the CVC. The stone is being used on the walls and floor, both on the inside and outside. Using stone is a tradition that dates back to 1793 when George Washington, our first president, insisted that the Capitol be made of stone as a sign that our democracy would last a long time. When your grandchildren visit the Capitol, they'll see the same stone walls and floors that you can see today!
 The map above shows all of the states whose quarries are providing stone for the Capitol Visitor Center. Is your state one of them?
Stone from Culpeper, Virginia  In this picture, a stone mason applies grout between large pieces of grey granite stone. This stone is located along a ramp that leads you to the entrance of the Capitol Visitor Center.
Once construction of the CVC is finished, workers will have installed over 300,000 pieces of stone! Some of these pieces weigh up to 500 pounds. Just imagine trying to complete a 300,000-piece puzzle!
Stone masons lay granite paving stones near the Senate Steps. This stone is from Minnesota and South Dakota.
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A stone mason helps guide a large piece of cut granite into place along the exterior wall of the Congressional Auditorium.
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Masons secure stone to the north stairs near the entrance of the CVC.
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A stone mason checks his measurements on piece of Tennessee Marble basestone.
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Pictured is one of the 26 restrooms located in the CVC. Marble tiles are used on the walls, including a Tennessee Marble basestone.
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A mason checks the alignment of sandstone on a column inside the Congressional Auditorium.
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