111th Congress, 2nd Session
The burning of the Capitol in 1814
August 24, 1814
In the most devastating blow suffered by the U.S. during the War of 1812, British forces overran the capital city on this date setting fire to most major public buildings, including the U.S. Capitol. The attack occurred during a congressional recess, the House having adjourned for the session in April. When Members returned in September, Congress considered removing the seat of government from Washington. Fearing that a temporary relocation would become permanent, opponents killed the motion on the House Floor. It would take nearly five years to rebuild the House Chamber. One of the unintended consequences of the burning of the Capitol was the resignation of House Clerk Patrick Magruder. Magruder was not present in Washington on the day of the event and his two deputies mustered with local militia to defend the city. Despite these circumstances, Magruder was held responsible for the loss of many House records and he submitted his resignation on January 28, 1815.
Related Highlight Subjects
Cite this Highlight
Office of History and Preservation, Office of the Clerk, http://clerk.house.gov/art_history/highlights.html?action=view&intID=43, (December 17, 2010).For Additional Information
Office of History and Preservation(202) 226-1300
history@mail.house.gov
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This 1814 drawing depicts the ruins of the U.S. Capitol after the British burned it. Visible in this image is the fire damage to the Senate and House wings, the damaged colonnade in the House of Representatives (shored up with firewood to prevent its collapse), and the gutted shell of the rotunda with the facade and roof missing.
Image courtesy of Library of Congress
Teaching Tip
House Legislation
Have students search the highlight dates and locate reference to any legislative document (bill, resolution, speech, etc.). Ask students to track down the document at a local depository library. Students should research the historical background of the document and make a brief presentation which includes reading all or portions of the document aloud. To locate a nearby federal depository library go to http://catalog.gpo.gov.
