Congressional Cemetery, at 1801 E Street SE on the east bank of the Anacostia River in Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C., was established in 1807 as the Washington Parish Burial Ground and is one of the oldest national cemeteries. It earned its name because Congress purchased burial lots for members who died in office, and for many years the Capitol itself was a short procession away. Around 65,000 burials are recorded on the grounds, and about 80 members of Congress are interred, with others commemorated by cenotaphs, which are the distinctive stone cone markers designed by Benjamin Latrobe for Congress. Among the notable burials are Vice President Elbridge Gerry, a signer of the Declaration of Independence; John Philip Sousa, the composer of the marches; J. Edgar Hoover, the FBI director; Push-Ma-Ta-Ha, a Choctaw chief who died in Washington in 1824; and Mathew Brady, the Civil War photographer. The cemetery also holds the graves of early residents, craftsmen, and architects of the Capitol including William Thornton's colleague and others involved in building the city. Its architecture ranges from simple headstones to monumental sandstone markers and a historic chapel and receiving vault, where bodies were held before burial. In the 20th century the cemetery was neglected and fell into disrepair, and the nonprofit Association for the Preservation of Historic Congressional Cemetery formed in 1976 to restore and care for it. The cemetery has since been listed as a National Historic Landmark and the association leads restoration of monuments, funded in part by a dog-walking program that finances upkeep, a distinctive feature that brings local residents to the grounds. The interpretation is self-guided with a walking tour map, and guided tours are offered seasonally. The cemetery is free to walk, and visitors typically spend 45 to 90 minutes, with a longer visit for those seeking specific graves. The grounds are open from dawn to dusk, and the cemetery works with the community through public events and programs.
| Admission | Free to walk; guided tours seasonal (congressionalcemetery.org, +1-202-543-0539) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Typically open daily dawn to dusk |
| Address | 1801 E St SE, Washington, DC 20003 |
Why it matters
Established in 1807, Congressional Cemetery is the burial place of many early members of Congress and figures from the federal city's early history, and it became the capital's first national burial ground. It contains the cenotaphs of members of Congress who died in office.
Location
1801 E St SE, Washington, DC 20003
38.8800, -76.9770 View on map
Highlights
- Benjamin Latrobe-designed cenotaphs for members of Congress
- Graves of John Philip Sousa, Elbridge Gerry and J. Edgar Hoover
- Mathew Brady's grave and other notable figures of the early federal city
- Historic chapel and receiving vault
- Self-guided walking tour of the grounds
Tips for visiting
- Pick up a walking-tour map or download one at congressionalcemetery.org to find notable graves.
- Guided tours run seasonally; check the schedule before visiting.
- Wear sturdy shoes; paths are uneven and grassy in places.
- Dogs are walked here by permit holders, so expect dogs on the grounds.
- Allow 45 to 90 minutes.
When to visit
Spring and fall are most pleasant. Daylight is required, and the grounds close at dusk.
Accessibility
The grounds are mostly flat but have grass and gravel paths with uneven surfaces, which can be difficult for wheelchairs. Contact the cemetery for accessible routes.
Frequently asked questions
Is Congressional Cemetery free to visit?
Yes. Visitors can walk the grounds free of charge, and guided tours are seasonal.
Who is buried here?
Notable burials include John Philip Sousa, J. Edgar Hoover, Elbridge Gerry and Mathew Brady, along with dozens of members of Congress.
How long does a visit take?
A visit typically takes 45 to 90 minutes.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. It is an open, outdoor site, though visitors should behave respectfully in an active cemetery.