• Introduction
• Historical Occupation
• 19th Century Speakers Rooms


• Lobby and Retiring Room
• The Speakers Portraits
• The “Board of Education”

Introduction

Elected by the House membership as the chamber’s presiding officer, the Speaker of the House symbolizes the institution’s power and authority. Over time, the grand spaces within the Capitol used by the Speaker have reflected that stature. Across the sweep of two centuries of American history, distinctive personalities and events have shaped the physical surroundings and lore of these rooms.

Left: Speaker’s LobbyImage courtesy of the Office of the Clerk, U.S House of Representatives

Center: Speaker’s Room, c. 1863 (detail), J. Jarvis Stereoscopic Views, albumen print stereoviewCollection of the U.S. House of Representatives

Right: Speaker’s Conference Rooms Image courtesy of the Office of the Clerk, U.S House of Representatives