National Statuary Hall Collection: Background and Legislative Options

Changes from June 23, 2023 to May 31, 2024

This page shows textual changes in the document between the two versions indicated in the dates above. Textual matter removed in the later version is indicated with ~~red strikethrough~~ and textual matter added in the later version is indicated with blue.

National Statuary Hall Collection: Background
~~June 23, 2023~~May 31, 2024
and Legislative Options
Jacob R. Straus
The National Statuary Hall Collection, located in the U.S. Capitol, comprises 100 statues The National Statuary Hall Collection, located in the U.S. Capitol, comprises 100 statues
Specialist on the Congress Specialist on the Congress
provided by individual states to honor persons notable for their historic renown or for provided by individual states to honor persons notable for their historic renown or for

distinguished services. The collection was authorized in 1864, when Congress redesignated the distinguished services. The collection was authorized in 1864, when Congress redesignated the
R. Eric Petersen
hall where the House of Representatives formerly met as National Statuary Hall. The first statue, hall where the House of Representatives formerly met as National Statuary Hall. The first statue,
Specialist in American Specialist in American
depicting Nathanael Greene, was provided in 1870 by Rhode Island. The collection has consisted depicting Nathanael Greene, was provided in 1870 by Rhode Island. The collection has consisted
National Government National Government
of of ~~100 statues—~~two statues per statetwo statues per state— since 2005, when New Mexico sent a statue of Po’pay. At since 2005, when New Mexico sent a statue of Po’pay. At

various times, various times, aesthetic and structural concerns necessitated the relocation of some statues aesthetic and structural concerns necessitated the relocation of some statues
~~throughout the Capitol. Today, some of the 100 individual statues in the National Statuary Hall~~

~~Collection~~outside of National Statuary Hall, and, today, some of these statues are located in the House and Senate wings of the are located in the House and Senate wings of the Jennifer E. Manning Capitol, ~~Capitol, the~~ Rotunda, Rotunda, ~~the~~ Crypt, and Crypt, and
~~the~~ Capitol Visitor Center. Capitol Visitor Center.
Senior Research Librarian Legislation to increase the size of the National Statuary Hall Collection Legislation to increase the size of the National Statuary Hall Collection ~~was~~has been introduced in introduced in several Congresses. These several Congresses. These
measures would permit states to furnish more than two statues or allow the District of Columbia and the U.S. territories to measures would permit states to furnish more than two statues or allow the District of Columbia and the U.S. territories to
provide statues to the collection. None of these proposals provide statues to the collection. None of these proposals ~~were enacted~~have been enacted to date. .
Should Congress choose to expand the number of statues in the National Statuary Hall Collection, the Joint Committee on the Should Congress choose to expand the number of statues in the National Statuary Hall Collection, the Joint Committee on the
Library (JCL), other congressional officials, and the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) may need to Library (JCL), other congressional officials, and the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) may need to ~~address~~consider statue location to statue location to
address aesthetic, structural, and safety concerns in National Statuary Hall, the Capitol Visitor Center, and other areas of the address aesthetic, structural, and safety concerns in National Statuary Hall, the Capitol Visitor Center, and other areas of the
Capitol. Capitol.
This report provides historical information on the National Statuary Hall Collection and National Statuary Hall. It examines This report provides historical information on the National Statuary Hall Collection and National Statuary Hall. It examines
the creation, design, placement, and replacement of statues in the National Statuary Hall Collection. The report then discusses the creation, design, placement, and replacement of statues in the National Statuary Hall Collection. The report then discusses
recent legislative proposals to increase the size of the National Statuary Hall Collection. recent legislative proposals to increase the size of the National Statuary Hall Collection.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

National Statuary Hall Collection: Background and Legislative Options

Introduction
The U.S. Capitol is home to extensive art collections. These collections are considered by The U.S. Capitol is home to extensive art collections. These collections are considered by
Congress as “an integral part of the history of this renowned building.”1 Perhaps the most Congress as “an integral part of the history of this renowned building.”1 Perhaps the most
prominent collection is the National Statuary Hall Collection, which contains statues of notable prominent collection is the National Statuary Hall Collection, which contains statues of notable
citizens provided by each state. First authorized in 1864, today, the National Statuary Hall citizens provided by each state. First authorized in 1864, today, the National Statuary Hall
Collection contains 100 statues throughout the Capitol. Today, 35 collection statues are displayed Collection contains 100 statues throughout the Capitol. Today, 35 collection statues are displayed
in National Statuary Hall.2 The rest of the National Statuary Hall Collection is displayed in the in National Statuary Hall.2 The rest of the National Statuary Hall Collection is displayed in the
House and Senate wings of the Capitol, House and Senate wings of the Capitol, ~~the Rotunda, the~~Rotunda, Crypt, and Crypt, and ~~the~~ Capitol Visitor Center Capitol Visitor Center
(CVC).3 (CVC).3
Collection statues—chosen by the states to honor prominent citizens—are furnished to Congress Collection statues—chosen by the states to honor prominent citizens—are furnished to Congress
for display in the Capitol. In the 106th Congress (1999-2000), for the first time, states were for display in the Capitol. In the 106th Congress (1999-2000), for the first time, states were
allowed to replace a statue previously donated to the National Statuary Hall Collection.4 In past allowed to replace a statue previously donated to the National Statuary Hall Collection.4 In past
Congresses, legislation has been introduced to alter the size of the collection by allowing each Congresses, legislation has been introduced to alter the size of the collection by allowing each
state to contribute three statues instead of two or allow the District of Columbia and the U.S. state to contribute three statues instead of two or allow the District of Columbia and the U.S.
territories to provide one statue each.5 territories to provide one statue each.5
Establishing the National Statuary Hall Collection
On January 6, 1864, Representative Justin Smith Morrill of Vermont introduced a resolution, On January 6, 1864, Representative Justin Smith Morrill of Vermont introduced a resolution,
which was agreed to by voice vote, requesting that the House Committee on Public Buildings which was agreed to by voice vote, requesting that the House Committee on Public Buildings
examine the possibility of using the Old Hall of the House of Representatives to display statues. examine the possibility of using the Old Hall of the House of Representatives to display statues.
Resolved, That the Committee on Public Buildings be requested to examine and report as Resolved, That the Committee on Public Buildings be requested to examine and report as
to the expediency of setting apart the old hall of the House of Representatives as a hall for to the expediency of setting apart the old hall of the House of Representatives as a hall for
statuary; and also as to the cost of a new flooring and bronze railing on each side of the statuary; and also as to the cost of a new flooring and bronze railing on each side of the
passage-way through the hall, preparatory to the reception of such works of arts.6 passage-way through the hall, preparatory to the reception of such works of arts.6
On April 19, 1864, Representative John Hovey Rice of Maine introduced, on behalf of the House On April 19, 1864, Representative John Hovey Rice of Maine introduced, on behalf of the House
Committee on Public Buildings, which he chaired, a joint resolution to create a statuary hall in the Committee on Public Buildings, which he chaired, a joint resolution to create a statuary hall in the
Old Hall of the House and to authorize existing appropriations to repair the old House chamber.7 Old Hall of the House and to authorize existing appropriations to repair the old House chamber.7
The resolution called for the President to “invite each of the states to provide and furnish statues The resolution called for the President to “invite each of the states to provide and furnish statues
in marble or bronze, not exceeding two in number each, of men who have been citizens thereof, in marble or bronze, not exceeding two in number each, of men who have been citizens thereof,
illustrious in their historical renown or distinguished for their civic or military services, such as illustrious in their historical renown or distinguished for their civic or military services, such as

1 U.S. Congress, House Joint Committee on the Library, 1 U.S. Congress, House Joint Committee on the Library, Art in the United States Capitol, prepared by the Architect of , prepared by the Architect of
the Capitol, 91st Cong., 2nd sess., H.Doc. 91-368 (Washington: GPO, 1976), p. ix. the Capitol, 91st Cong., 2nd sess., H.Doc. 91-368 (Washington: GPO, 1976), p. ix.
2 The House generally met in the 2 The House generally met in the “Old Hall” (now called National Statuary Hall)~~Old Hall~~ from 1807 until the completion in 1857 of the present House wing of the from 1807 until the completion in 1857 of the present House wing of the
Capitol. One other statue is on display in National Statuary Hall that is not part of the National Statuary Hall Capitol. One other statue is on display in National Statuary Hall that is not part of the National Statuary Hall
Collection. In 2005, Congress commissioned a statue to honor Rosa Parks (P.L. 109-116, 119 Stat. 2524 (2005)). The Collection. In 2005, Congress commissioned a statue to honor Rosa Parks (P.L. 109-116, 119 Stat. 2524 (2005)). The
statue was dedicated and placed in Statuary Hall in 2013. For more information, see statue was dedicated and placed in Statuary Hall in 2013. For more information, see “Rosa Parks Statue,” U.S. Congress, Architect of the U.S. Congress, Architect of the
~~Capitol, “Rosa Parks Statue,” at~~ Capitol, https://www.aoc.gov/explore-capitol-campus/art/rosa-parks-statue. https://www.aoc.gov/explore-capitol-campus/art/rosa-parks-statue.
3 The location of statues in the collection is available from the Architect of the Capitol, at https://www.aoc.gov/capitol-3 The location of statues in the collection is available from the Architect of the Capitol, at https://www.aoc.gov/capitol-
hill/national-statuary-hall-collection/nsh-location. hill/national-statuary-hall-collection/nsh-location.
4 P.L. 106-554, §1(a)(2), 114 Stat. 2763A-119 (2000). 4 P.L. 106-554, §1(a)(2), 114 Stat. 2763A-119 (2000).
5 Current statutory requirements for statues placed in National Statuary Hall can be found in Title 2 5 Current statutory requirements for statues placed in National Statuary Hall can be found in Title 2 United States Code
2131, 2131a, and 2132. 2131, 2131a, and 2132.
6 U.S. Congress, 6 U.S. Congress, Journal of the House of Representatives of the United States, 83rd Cong. 1st sess., January 6, 1864 , 83rd Cong. 1st sess., January 6, 1864
(Washington: GPO, 1863), p. 108. (Washington: GPO, 1863), p. 108.
7 Rep. John Hovey Rice et al., “The Old House Hall,” House debate, 7 Rep. John Hovey Rice et al., “The Old House Hall,” House debate, Congressional Globe, vol. 34, part 2 (April 19, , vol. 34, part 2 (April 19,
1864), pp. 1736-1737. 1864), pp. 1736-1737.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

1 1

National Statuary Hall Collection: Background and Legislative Options

each State shall determine are worthy of national remembrance.”8 The joint resolution passed the each State shall determine are worthy of national remembrance.”8 The joint resolution passed the
House by a vote of 87 to 20 and was referred in the Senate to the Committee on Public Buildings House by a vote of 87 to 20 and was referred in the Senate to the Committee on Public Buildings
and Grounds,9 where it was reported without amendment and with the recommendation that it and Grounds,9 where it was reported without amendment and with the recommendation that it
“ought not to pass.”10 The Senate took no further action on the joint resolution. “ought not to pass.”10 The Senate took no further action on the joint resolution.
Subsequently, in June 1864, during House consideration of a civil appropriations bill, Subsequently, in June 1864, during House consideration of a civil appropriations bill,
Representative Thaddeus Stevens of Pennsylvania offered an amendment similar to the joint Representative Thaddeus Stevens of Pennsylvania offered an amendment similar to the joint
resolution previously passed by the House.11 The amendment was agreed to in the House,12 but resolution previously passed by the House.11 The amendment was agreed to in the House,12 but
was removed from the bill when it was considered in the Senate.13 The proposed language was was removed from the bill when it was considered in the Senate.13 The proposed language was
restored in conference committee, and it stated restored in conference committee, and it stated
Sec. 2. Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That a marble floor, similar to that of the Congressional , That a marble floor, similar to that of the Congressional
Library or the Senate vestibule, shall be constructed in the old Hall of the House of Library or the Senate vestibule, shall be constructed in the old Hall of the House of
Representatives, using such marble as may be now on hand and not otherwise required, Representatives, using such marble as may be now on hand and not otherwise required,
and that suitable structures and railings shall be therein erected for the reception and and that suitable structures and railings shall be therein erected for the reception and
protection of statuary, and the same shall be under the supervision and direction of the protection of statuary, and the same shall be under the supervision and direction of the
Commissioner of Public Buildings; and so much of the moneys now or heretofore Commissioner of Public Buildings; and so much of the moneys now or heretofore
appropriated for the capitol extension as may be necessary, not exceeding the sum of fifteen appropriated for the capitol extension as may be necessary, not exceeding the sum of fifteen
thousand dollars, is hereby set apart and shall be disbursed for the thousand dollars, is hereby set apart and shall be disbursed for the porse [purposes] [purposes]
hereinbefore mentioned. And the President is hereby authorized to invite each and all the hereinbefore mentioned. And the President is hereby authorized to invite each and all the
States to provide and furnish statues, in marble or bronze, not exceeding two in number for States to provide and furnish statues, in marble or bronze, not exceeding two in number for
each state, of deceased persons who have been citizens thereof, and illustrious for their each state, of deceased persons who have been citizens thereof, and illustrious for their
historic renown or from distinguished civic or military services, such as each state shall historic renown or from distinguished civic or military services, such as each state shall
determine to be worthy of this national commemoration; and when so furnished the same determine to be worthy of this national commemoration; and when so furnished the same
shall be placed in the old hall of the House of Representatives, in the capitol of the United shall be placed in the old hall of the House of Representatives, in the capitol of the United
States, which is hereby set apart, or so much thereof as may be necessary, as a national States, which is hereby set apart, or so much thereof as may be necessary, as a national
statuary hall, for the purposes herein indicated.14 statuary hall, for the purposes herein indicated.14
The first statue in the collection, depicting Nathanael Greene, was provided by Rhode Island in The first statue in the collection, depicting Nathanael Greene, was provided by Rhode Island in
1870. As the Union grew, the number of statues in the collection increased; by 1933, the hall held 1870. As the Union grew, the number of statues in the collection increased; by 1933, the hall held
65 statues, some of which stood three deep. Aesthetic and structural concerns necessitated the 65 statues, some of which stood three deep. Aesthetic and structural concerns necessitated the
relocation of some statues throughout the Capitol.15 The collection reached 100 statues in 2005 relocation of some statues throughout the Capitol.15 The collection reached 100 statues in 2005
when New Mexico, which became a state in 1912, added the statue of Po’pay.16 when New Mexico, which became a state in 1912, added the statue of Po’pay.16

8 Ibid., p. 1736. 8 Ibid., p. 1736.
9 Ibid., p. 1737. 9 Ibid., p. 1737.
10 U.S. Congress, 10 U.S. Congress, Journal of the Senate of the United States of America, 83rd Cong. 1st sess., April 25, 1864 , 83rd Cong. 1st sess., April 25, 1864
(Washington: GPO, 1863), p. 366. (Washington: GPO, 1863), p. 366.
11 Rep. Thaddeus Stevens, “Civil Appropriations Bill,” House debate, 11 Rep. Thaddeus Stevens, “Civil Appropriations Bill,” House debate, Congressional Globe, vol. 34, part 4 (June 20, , vol. 34, part 4 (June 20,
1864), pp. 3106-3107. 1864), pp. 3106-3107.
12 U.S. Congress, Joint Committee on the Library, 12 U.S. Congress, Joint Committee on the Library, Legislation Creating the National Statuary Hall in the Capitol, 64th , 64th
Cong., 2nd sess. (Washington: GPO, 1916), p. 12. Cong., 2nd sess. (Washington: GPO, 1916), p. 12.
13 “Civil Appropriations Bill,” Senate debate, 13 “Civil Appropriations Bill,” Senate debate, Congressional Globe, vol. 34, part 4 (June 24, 1864), p. 3225. , vol. 34, part 4 (June 24, 1864), p. 3225.
14 13 Stat. 347, July 2, 1864. Authority over the Capitol Building and Grounds was transferred to the Architect of the 14 13 Stat. 347, July 2, 1864. Authority over the Capitol Building and Grounds was transferred to the Architect of the
Capitol in 1876 (19 Stat. 147 (1876). For more information on the creation of National Statuary Hall, see U.S. Capitol in 1876 (19 Stat. 147 (1876). For more information on the creation of National Statuary Hall, see U.S.
Congress, Joint Committee on the Library, Congress, Joint Committee on the Library, Legislation Creating the National Statuary Hall in the Capitol: With the
Proceedings in Congress Relating to the Statues Placed in the National Statuary Hall by the States, prepared by H.A. , prepared by H.A.
Vale, 64th cong., 2nd sess. (Washington: GPO, 1916), pp. 5-17. Vale, 64th cong., 2nd sess. (Washington: GPO, 1916), pp. 5-17.
15 National Statuary Hall is the two-story, former chamber of the House of Representatives and is also called the “Old 15 National Statuary Hall is the two-story, former chamber of the House of Representatives and is also called the “Old
Hall of the House.” For more information, see “Statuary Hall,” House Debate, Hall of the House.” For more information, see “Statuary Hall,” House Debate, Congressional Record, vol. 76, part 4 , vol. 76, part 4
(February 20, 1933), pp. 4533-4534; and “Statuary Hall,” (February 20, 1933), pp. 4533-4534; and “Statuary Hall,” Congressional Record, vol. 76, part 4 (February 20, 1933), , vol. 76, part 4 (February 20, 1933),
pp. 4533-4534. Also, see “Statuary Hall Creaks ‘Neath the Weight of Fame,” pp. 4533-4534. Also, see “Statuary Hall Creaks ‘Neath the Weight of Fame,” The Christian Science Monitor, January , January
25, 1933, p. 1. 25, 1933, p. 1.
16 16 “Po’pay Statue,” U.S. Congress, Architect of the Capitol, U.S. Congress, Architect of the Capitol, “Po’pay,” Capitol Campus Art~~, at~~ http://www.aoc.gov/cc/art/nsh/popay.cfm. http://www.aoc.gov/cc/art/nsh/popay.cfm.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2 2

National Statuary Hall Collection: Background and Legislative Options

Statues in the Collection: Design, Placement, and
Replacement
Pursuant to the July 1864 civil appropriations bill, each state may donate up to two statues for Pursuant to the July 1864 civil appropriations bill, each state may donate up to two statues for
inclusion in the National Statuary Hall Collection. Statues donated to the collection are to be inclusion in the National Statuary Hall Collection. Statues donated to the collection are to be
made of “marble or bronze, not exceeding two in number for each State, of deceased persons who made of “marble or bronze, not exceeding two in number for each State, of deceased persons who
have been citizens thereof, and illustrious for their historic renown or for distinguished civic or have been citizens thereof, and illustrious for their historic renown or for distinguished civic or
military services.”17 military services.”17
Statue Design and Placement Guidelines
Statues donated to the collection must be formally accepted by the Joint Committee on the Statues donated to the collection must be formally accepted by the Joint Committee on the
Library (JCL).18 To assist states, the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) has published guidelines, Library (JCL).18 To assist states, the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) has published guidelines,
which are subject to modification by the JCL, for creating statues for the collection. The which are subject to modification by the JCL, for creating statues for the collection. The
guidelines address numerous aspects of statuary design, including subject, material, pedestal, guidelines address numerous aspects of statuary design, including subject, material, pedestal,
inscriptions, size and weight, patina and coating, and other considerations.19 inscriptions, size and weight, patina and coating, and other considerations.19
Additionally, the AOC, Additionally, the AOC, “upon the approval of upon the approval of
Statue Design and Placement
the the ~~JCL with the advice of the Commission of~~
~~Guidelines~~
~~Fine Arts as requested,20 is authorized and~~Joint Committee on the Library (JCL) and Guidelines with the advice of the Commission of Fine
Specific requirements and guidelines for statue design Specific requirements and guidelines for statue design
~~directed to locate or relocate collection statues~~Arts as requested,”20 is authorized and directed
and placement are available from the Architect of the and placement are available from the Architect of the
~~within the Capitol.21 The AOC, under the~~to locate or relocate collection statues within
Capitol, at https://www.aoc.gov/sites/default/files/ Capitol, at https://www.aoc.gov/sites/default/files/
~~JCL’s~~ the Capitol.21 The AOC, under the JCL’s statue_replacement_guidelines_2014.pdf. guidance, established a nine-step guidance, established a nine-step
~~statue_replacement_guidelines_2014.pdf.~~
process for the acceptance of a new or process for the acceptance of a new or
replacement statue. This process is part of the statue design and placement guidelines. replacement statue. This process is part of the statue design and placement guidelines.

17 2 U.S.C. §2131. 17 2 U.S.C. §2131.
18 In addition to authorities granted to the JCL in 1872, Congress in 1988 assigned responsibility to provide works of 18 In addition to authorities granted to the JCL in 1872, Congress in 1988 assigned responsibility to provide works of
fine art and other property for display in the Capitol to the Capitol Preservation Commission. Similar authorities were fine art and other property for display in the Capitol to the Capitol Preservation Commission. Similar authorities were
granted to the House and Senate through the House of Representatives Fine Arts Board, Senate Commission on Art, granted to the House and Senate through the House of Representatives Fine Arts Board, Senate Commission on Art,
and Senate Committee on Rules and Administration for art in their buildings and respective wings of the Capitol. (2 and Senate Committee on Rules and Administration for art in their buildings and respective wings of the Capitol. (2
U.S.C. §§2081, 2101, 2102, 2121, 2133, 2135). These parallel authorities may raise questions related to which U.S.C. §§2081, 2101, 2102, 2121, 2133, 2135). These parallel authorities may raise questions related to which
congressional entities might be involved in future National Statuary Hall Collection and other fine art decisions. congressional entities might be involved in future National Statuary Hall Collection and other fine art decisions.
19 2 U.S.C. §2131. Also, see Architect of the Capitol, 19 2 U.S.C. §2131. Also, see Architect of the Capitol, Procedure and Guidelines for Replacement~~for Admission~~ of Statues ~~to Statuary Hall~~~~, p. 1~~in the National Statuary Hall Collection. A copy . A copy
of this document is available to congressional clients from the authors upon request. Other considerations include of this document is available to congressional clients from the authors upon request. Other considerations include
requirements that statues and pedestals not be safety hazards and should not include sharp or protruding elements. requirements that statues and pedestals not be safety hazards and should not include sharp or protruding elements.
20 20 2 U.S.C. §2132(e). The Commission of Fine Arts (CFA) was created by Congress in 1910. The commission advises Congress, the The Commission of Fine Arts (CFA) was created by Congress in 1910. The commission advises Congress, the
President, and heads of departments and agencies on the location of statues, fountains, and monuments in public spaces President, and heads of departments and agencies on the location of statues, fountains, and monuments in public spaces
in the District of Columbia; selection of models and artists for statues, fountains, and monuments erected under the in the District of Columbia; selection of models and artists for statues, fountains, and monuments erected under the
authority of the federal government; and responds to questions of art, when required. A 2002 revision of the law states authority of the federal government; and responds to questions of art, when required. A 2002 revision of the law states
that the commission’s responsibilities do “not apply to the Capitol Building and the Library of Congress buildings,” that the commission’s responsibilities do “not apply to the Capitol Building and the Library of Congress buildings,”
suggesting it no longer has a role in decisions regarding the location of the collection within the Capitol. See 40 U.S.C. suggesting it no longer has a role in decisions regarding the location of the collection within the Capitol. See 40 U.S.C.
§9102. §9102.
21 H.Con.Res. 47 (72nd Congress), agreed to February 24, 1933. Statutory authority was enacted in 2000, 2 U.S.C. 21 H.Con.Res. 47 (72nd Congress), agreed to February 24, 1933. Statutory authority was enacted in 2000, 2 U.S.C.
§2132(e). §2132(e).
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

3 3

~~link to page 12~~ National Statuary Hall Collection: Background and Legislative Options

Replacement of Statues
Since 2000, states have been allowed to replace statues donated to the collection. Regulations for Since 2000, states have been allowed to replace statues donated to the collection. Regulations for
the replacement of statues were established by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2001.22 In the replacement of statues were established by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2001.22 In
2005, Congress enacted a requirement that an individual depicted on a statue displayed in the 2005, Congress enacted a requirement that an individual depicted on a statue displayed in the
National Statuary Hall Collection must be deceased for at least 10 years.23 To replace a statue, a National Statuary Hall Collection must be deceased for at least 10 years.23 To replace a statue, a
state must state must
• request—through the approval of a resolution adopted by the state legislature and • request—through the approval of a resolution adopted by the state legislature and
signed by the governor—in writing, approval from the Joint Committee; and signed by the governor—in writing, approval from the Joint Committee; and
• ensure that the statue to be replaced has been displayed in the collection for at • ensure that the statue to be replaced has been displayed in the collection for at
least 10 years.24 least 10 years.24
Upon the Joint Committee’s approval of the replacement request, the AOC is authorized to enter Upon the Joint Committee’s approval of the replacement request, the AOC is authorized to enter
into an agreement with the state, subject to any conditions imposed by the Joint Committee. Once into an agreement with the state, subject to any conditions imposed by the Joint Committee. Once
accepted, the state is responsible for paying all related costs, including the design, construction, accepted, the state is responsible for paying all related costs, including the design, construction,
transportation, and placement of the new statuetransportation, and placement of the new statue, and pedestal; the removal and transportation of the statue being the removal and transportation of the statue being
replaced (back to the state or other location determined by the state legislature)replaced (back to the state or other location determined by the state legislature), ; and any unveiling and any unveiling
ceremony.25 ceremony.25
Since the authorization of replacements within the collection in 2000, Since the authorization of replacements within the collection in 2000, 1012 states—Alabama, states—Alabama,
Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Iowa, KansasCalifornia, Florida, Iowa, Kansas (twice), Michigan, , Michigan, ~~Arizona, Ohio~~Missouri, North Carolina, Nebraska (twice), and , Nebraska (twice), and ~~Missouri—~~
Ohio—have sent a replacement statue. have sent a replacement statue. ~~In 2020, Virginia requested the removal of its Robert E. Lee statue~~
~~and also announced that a statue of Barbara Johns will be sent to the Capitol as a replacement.26 A~~
~~list of statues replaced in the collection can be found in Appendix B.~~
~~Proposals to Expand the Collection~~
~~Legislation to increase the size of the collection might fall into two categories. The first would~~
~~increase the number of statues that states are permitted to donate, from a maximum of two per~~
~~state to three per state. The second would permit the District of Columbia and the U.S. territories~~
~~to contribute one or more statues to the collection.~~
~~Expansion of Permitted Statues Per State~~
~~Since the redesignation of the Old Hall of the House as National Statuary Hall in 1864, each state~~
~~has been allowed to place two statues in the collection. Supporters of providing a third statue per~~
~~state argue that additional statues could provide an opportunity to increase the diversity of the~~Additionally, two states—Virginia and Arkansas—have requested that at least one of their statutes be removed from the U.S. Capitol before a replacement statue has been dedicated. In 2019, Arkansas enacted legislation to remove its two statues—U.M. Rose and James P. Clarke—and replace them with statues of Daisy Lee Gatson Bates and Johnny Cash.26 On May 8, 2024, Arkansas’s Daisy Lee Gatson Bates statue was dedicated in National Statuary Hall.27 In 2020, Virginia requested the removal of its Robert E. Lee statue and also announced that a statue of Barbara Johns will be sent to the Capitol as a replacement.28 A timeline for the arrival in the U.S. Capitol of the Johnny Cash (Arkansas) and Barbara Johns (Virginia) statues has not yet been announced.29

22 This section is based on P.L. 106-554, 114 Stat. 2763A-119 (2000), codified at 22 U.S.C. §2132, and other sources 22 This section is based on P.L. 106-554, 114 Stat. 2763A-119 (2000), codified at 22 U.S.C. §2132, and other sources
as noted. as noted.
23 2 U.S.C. §2131a(a). 23 2 U.S.C. §2131a(a).
24 The Joint Committee on the Library may waive the 10-year requirement for cause at the request of the state, 2 U.S.C. 24 The Joint Committee on the Library may waive the 10-year requirement for cause at the request of the state, 2 U.S.C.
§2132. §2132.
25 For example, see the State of 25 For example, see the State of ~~Iowa’s account of~~ Nebraska’s summary of activities for the replacement of a statue of the replacement of a statue of ~~James Harlan~~Julius Sterling Morton with a statue of Willa Cather in 2023, at https://history.nebraska.gov/willa-cather-national-statuary-hall-selection-committee. 26 Arkansas Code Annotated §1-4-134; Acts 2019, No. 581, §1 (2019). For more information, see Sean Clancy, “Statues of Bates, Cash Approved for U.S. Display,” Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, April 12, 2019, at arkansasonline.com/412cash/. 27 U.S. Congress, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, “Speaker Johnson Honors Daisy Bates of Arkansas in Statue Dedication,” press release, May 9, 2024, https://www.speaker.gov/speaker-johnson-honors-daisy-bates-of-arkansas-in-statue-dedication. 28 ~~with a statue of Dr.~~
~~Norman E. Borlaug in 2014, at https://iowaculture.gov/iowa-culture/special-projects/iowa-nshc/borlaug-statue-project.~~
26 For more information, see Letter from The Honorable Ralph S. Northam, Governor, Commonwealth of Virginia, to For more information, see Letter from The Honorable Ralph S. Northam, Governor, Commonwealth of Virginia, to
J. Brett Blanton, Architect of the Capitol, July 31, 2020, https://www.dhr.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/J. Brett Blanton, Architect of the Capitol, July 31, 2020, https://www.dhr.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/
7.31.2020-RSN-Letter-to-Brett-Blanton.pdf; and 7.31.2020-RSN-Letter-to-Brett-Blanton.pdf; and ~~Virginia Department of Historic Resources, “Commission for~~
~~Historical Statues in the United States Capitol,” at https://www.dhr.virginia.gov/uscapitolcommission.~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

4

“Commission for Historical Statues in the United States Capitol,” Virginia Department of Historic Resources, https://www.dhr.virginia.gov/uscapitolcommission. 29 For more information on the Johnny Cash statue, see “Capitol Arts & Grounds Commission,” Arkansas Secretary of State, https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/cagc. For more information on the Barbara Johns statue, see Virginia Department (continued...) Congressional Research Service 4 link to page 12 National Statuary Hall Collection: Background and Legislative Options A list of statues replaced in the collection can be found in Appendix B. Proposals to Expand the Collection Legislation to increase the size of the collection might fall into two categories. The first would increase the number of statues that states are permitted to donate, from a maximum of two per state to three per state. The second would permit the District of Columbia and the U.S. territories to contribute one or more statues to the collection. Expansion of Permitted Statues Per State Since the redesignation of the Old Hall of the House as National Statuary Hall in 1864, each state has been allowed to place two statues in the collection. Supporters of providing a third statue per state argue that additional statues could provide an opportunity to increase the diversity of the ~~National Statuary Hall Collection: Background and Legislative Options~~

collection, which currently includes collection, which currently includes 1821 statues of women or minorities. statues of women or minorities.2730 Several proposals have Several proposals have
been introduced since the 1990s to provide a third statue to each state.been introduced since the 1990s to provide a third statue to each state.2831
If Congress were to authorize an additional statue per state, states would be able, but not be If Congress were to authorize an additional statue per state, states would be able, but not be
required, to add statues to the collection. Increasing the collection by up to 50 statues may take required, to add statues to the collection. Increasing the collection by up to 50 statues may take
some time, as states debate who might be honored, approve their selections, request JCL some time, as states debate who might be honored, approve their selections, request JCL
approval, raise funds, and commission artists to create new statues. approval, raise funds, and commission artists to create new statues.
Should the National Statuary Hall Collection expand to more than 100 statues, space for the Should the National Statuary Hall Collection expand to more than 100 statues, space for the
additional statues in the Capitol complex could become an issue. Currently, collection statues are additional statues in the Capitol complex could become an issue. Currently, collection statues are
located in the Rotundalocated in the Rotunda,; the Crypt the Crypt,; the House wing of the Capitol in National Statuary Hall the House wing of the Capitol in National Statuary Hall,; the the
Hall of ColumnsHall of Columns,; and adjacent to the House chamber, the Senate wing of the Capitol, and the and adjacent to the House chamber, the Senate wing of the Capitol, and the
CVC. When the CVC opened in 2008, collection statues were moved to Emancipation Hall and CVC. When the CVC opened in 2008, collection statues were moved to Emancipation Hall and
other CVC locations to reduce the number of statues in National Statuary Hall and other Capitol other CVC locations to reduce the number of statues in National Statuary Hall and other Capitol
locations. The addition of 50 or more statues might require the AOC to place statues closer locations. The addition of 50 or more statues might require the AOC to place statues closer
together in those locations. If more statues are placed in National Statuary Hall itself, some together in those locations. If more statues are placed in National Statuary Hall itself, some
display and structural concerns that have arisen in the past may be revisited. display and structural concerns that have arisen in the past may be revisited.
Statues for the District of Columbia and U.S. Territories
In the past, proposals have been introduced to authorize the District of Columbia and the In the past, proposals have been introduced to authorize the District of Columbia and the
territories to provide one or two statues for the National Statuary Hall Collection. None of these territories to provide one or two statues for the National Statuary Hall Collection. None of these
proposals were considered.proposals were considered.2932 Although it is not part of the National Statuary Hall collection, in Although it is not part of the National Statuary Hall collection, in
2013, a statue of Frederick Douglass was donated by the District of Columbia government and 2013, a statue of Frederick Douglass was donated by the District of Columbia government and
~~accepted by Congress for placement in Emancipation Hall of the Capitol Visitor Center.30 The~~
~~statue was officially unveiled on June 19, 2013.31~~
~~Issues for Congress~~
~~Over the past four decades, Congress has considered proposals to increase the number of statues~~
~~in the National Statuary Hall Collection. As noted above, one group of legislative proposals~~
~~involves adding additional statues for each state; another would expand the collection by allowing~~
~~the District of Columbia and the U.S. territories to provide statues to the collection. If either or~~
~~both options were adopted, proponents argue that states could donate statues that better represent~~
~~various aspects of their history. Congress might also consider revising the criteria to discourage or~~
~~disallow states from sending figures associated with certain historical events or revising standards~~
~~for statues associated with certain historical events from being displayed in the Capitol.32~~

27 of Historic Resources, “Preliminary Model of Virginia’s Barbara Rose Johns Statute for U.S. Capitol Approved,” August 7, 2023, https://www.dhr.virginia.gov/blog-posts/barbara-rose-johns-maquette-approved-for-us-capitol. 30 U.S. Congress, Architect of the Capitol, “How Many Women are Represented in the National Statuary Hall U.S. Congress, Architect of the Capitol, “How Many Women are Represented in the National Statuary Hall
Collection,” Collection,” Capitol Hill Facts, , at https://www.aoc.gov/explore-capitol-campus/capitol-hill-facts; and Rep. Stephen https://www.aoc.gov/explore-capitol-campus/capitol-hill-facts; and Rep. Stephen
Cohen, “Support More Diversity in the United States Capitol,” remarks in the House, Cohen, “Support More Diversity in the United States Capitol,” remarks in the House, Congressional Record, daily , daily
edition, vol. 157, (March 30, 2011), p. H2049. edition, vol. 157, (March 30, 2011), p. H2049.
2831 For example, see H.R. 3368 (103rd Congress), introduced October 26, 1993; and H.R. 1289 (112th Congress), For example, see H.R. 3368 (103rd Congress), introduced October 26, 1993; and H.R. 1289 (112th Congress),
introduced March 31, 2011. “Introduction of Bill and Joint Resolutions,” introduced March 31, 2011. “Introduction of Bill and Joint Resolutions,” Congressional Record, vol. 121, part 2 , vol. 121, part 2
(February 5, 1975), p. 2447. (February 5, 1975), p. 2447.
2932 For example, see S. 566 (94th Congress) and S. 3678 (93rd Congress). Similar legislation to authorize the District of For example, see S. 566 (94th Congress) and S. 3678 (93rd Congress). Similar legislation to authorize the District of
Columbia and territories to provide statues to the collection was introduced in the 99th, 109th, Columbia and territories to provide statues to the collection was introduced in the 99th, 109th, ~~and 111th Congresses.~~
~~30 P.L. 112-174, 126 Stat. 1311 (2012).~~
~~31 S.Con.Res. 16 (113th Congress), May 21, 2013.~~
~~32 For example, in the 117th Congress (2021-2022), at least two bills (H.R. 3005, §3(b), and H.R. 8237) would have~~
~~(continued...)~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

5

~~National Statuary Hall Collection: Background and Legislative Options~~
111th, and 118th Congresses. In the 118th Congress, H.R. 1026 and H.R. 3251 would authorize the President to invite each U.S. territory to provide two statues for placement in National Statuary Hall. Congressional Research Service 5 National Statuary Hall Collection: Background and Legislative Options accepted by Congress for placement in Emancipation Hall of the Capitol Visitor Center.33 The statue was officially unveiled on June 19, 2013.34 Issues for Congress Over the past four decades, Congress has considered proposals to increase the number of statues in the National Statuary Hall Collection. As noted above, one group of legislative proposals involves adding additional statues for each state; another would expand the collection by allowing the District of Columbia and the U.S. territories to provide statues to the collection. If either or both options were adopted, proponents argue that states could donate statues that better represent various aspects of their history. Congress might also consider revising the criteria to discourage or disallow states from sending figures associated with certain historical events or revising standards for statues associated with certain historical events from being displayed in the Capitol.35
Increasing the number of statues in the collection, however, could result in further space concerns Increasing the number of statues in the collection, however, could result in further space concerns
related to statue display in the Capitol. When the CVC opened, the AOC, under the JCL’s related to statue display in the Capitol. When the CVC opened, the AOC, under the JCL’s
direction, reduced the number of collection statues on display in National Statuary Hall as well as direction, reduced the number of collection statues on display in National Statuary Hall as well as
in the House and Senate wings of the Capitol by moving them to Emancipation Hall and other in the House and Senate wings of the Capitol by moving them to Emancipation Hall and other
locations within the CVC. Adding additional statues to the collection might necessitate relocating locations within the CVC. Adding additional statues to the collection might necessitate relocating
existing statues. existing statues.
Any changes to the collection would likely be weighed against the potential costs to states, or if Any changes to the collection would likely be weighed against the potential costs to states, or if
approved, the District of Columbia and U.S. territories, who might provide new statues. In the approved, the District of Columbia and U.S. territories, who might provide new statues. In the
case of expanding the number of statues that might be added to the collection, a further concern is case of expanding the number of statues that might be added to the collection, a further concern is
whether the larger collection could be displayed in the Capitol in an appropriate manner. Other whether the larger collection could be displayed in the Capitol in an appropriate manner. Other
considerations include structural, traffic management, and life safety constraints of the physical considerations include structural, traffic management, and life safety constraints of the physical
environment. environment.

33 P.L. 112-174, 126 Stat. 1311 (2012). 34 S.Con.Res. 16 (113th Congress), May 21, 2013. 35 For example, in the 117th Congress (2021-2022)—H.R. 3005, §3(b) and H.R. 8237—and in the 118th Congress (2023-2024)—H.R. 1248 and S. 573—would generally have required the removal of all statues of individuals who voluntarily served the Confederate States of America from required the removal of all statues of individuals who voluntarily served the Confederate States of America from
display in publicly accessible areas of the United States Capitol. See also, U.S. Congress, House, Committee on display in publicly accessible areas of the United States Capitol. See also, U.S. Congress, House, Committee on
Appropriations, Appropriations, Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill, 2023, 117th Cong., 2nd sess., H.Rept. 117-389 (2022), , 117th Cong., 2nd sess., H.Rept. 117-389 (2022), at
https://www.congress.gov/congressional-report/117th-congress/house-report/389. https://www.congress.gov/congressional-report/117th-congress/house-report/389.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

6 6

link to page 10 link to page 10 National Statuary Hall Collection: Background and Legislative Options

Appendix A. National Statuary Hall
Collection Statues
~~Since 2005, when New Mexico provided its second statue—Po’Pay—the National Statuary Hall~~
~~Collection has contained 100 statues.33~~ Table A-1 provides a list of statues currently in the provides a list of statues currently in the
collection, by state, with the name of the statue and the year it was placed in the collection. collection, by state, with the name of the statue and the year it was placed in the collection.
Table A-1. National Statuary Hall Collection Statues
Year
Year
State
Statue
Placed State
Statue
Placed
Alabama Alabama
Helen Keller Helen Keller
2009 2009
Montana Montana
Jeanette Rankin Jeanette Rankin
1985 1985
Alabama Alabama
Joseph Wheeler Joseph Wheeler
1925 1925
Montana Montana
Charles Marion Charles Marion
1959 1959
Russell Russell
Alaska Alaska
Ernest Gruening Ernest Gruening
1977 1977
Nebraska Nebraska
Chief Standing Bear Chief Standing Bear
2019 2019
Alaska Alaska
Edward Lewis Bartlett Edward Lewis Bartlett
1971 1971
Nebraska Nebraska
Wil a Cather Wil a Cather
2023 2023
Arizona Arizona
Eusebio Kino Eusebio Kino
1965 1965
Nevada Nevada
Sarah Winnemucca Sarah Winnemucca
2005 2005
Arizona Arizona
Barry Goldwater Barry Goldwater
2015 2015
Nevada Nevada
Patrick Anthony Patrick Anthony
1960 1960
McCarran McCarran
Arkansas Arkansas
~~James Paul Clarke~~
~~1921~~
~~New~~
Daisy Lee Gatson Bates 2024 New Hampshire John Stark John Stark
1894 1894
~~Hampshire~~
~~Arkansas~~
~~Uriah Milton Rose~~
~~1917~~
~~New~~
Arkansas See Table Note Below New Hampshire Daniel Webster Daniel Webster
1894 1894
~~Hampshire~~
California California
Father Junipero Serra Father Junipero Serra
1931 1931
New Jersey New Jersey
Richard Stockton Richard Stockton
1888 1888
California California
Ronald Wilson Reagan Ronald Wilson Reagan
2009 2009
New Jersey New Jersey
Philip Kearny Philip Kearny
1888 1888
Colorado Colorado
John L. Swigert John L. Swigert
1997 1997
New Mexico New Mexico
Po'pay Po'pay
2005 2005
Colorado Colorado
Florence R. Sabin Florence R. Sabin
1959 1959
New Mexico New Mexico
Dennis Chavez Dennis Chavez
1966 1966
Connecticut Connecticut
Roger Sherman Roger Sherman
1872 1872
New York New York
Robert R. Livingston Robert R. Livingston
1875 1875
Connecticut Connecticut
Jonathan Trumbul Jonathan Trumbul
1872 1872
New York New York
George Clinton George Clinton
1873 1873
Delaware Delaware
Caesar Rodney Caesar Rodney
1934 1934
North Carolina North Carolina
~~Charles Brantley~~
~~1932~~
~~Aycock~~Bil y Graham Jr. 2024
Delaware Delaware
John Middleton Clayton John Middleton Clayton
1934 1934
North Carolina North Carolina
Zebulon Baird Vance Zebulon Baird Vance
1916 1916
Florida Florida
Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune
2022 2022
North Dakota North Dakota
Sakakawea Sakakawea
2003 2003
Florida Florida
John Gorrie John Gorrie
1914 1914
North Dakota North Dakota
John Burke John Burke
1963 1963
Georgia Georgia
Crawford W. Long Crawford W. Long
1926 1926
Ohio Ohio
Thomas Edison Thomas Edison
2016 2016
Georgia Georgia
Alexander Hamilton Alexander Hamilton ~~Stephens~~
1927 1927
Ohio Ohio
James A. Garfield James A. Garfield
1886 1886
Stephens Hawaii Hawaii
Kamehameha I Kamehameha I
1969 1969
Oklahoma Oklahoma
Wil Rogers Wil Rogers
1939 1939
Hawaii Hawaii
Father Damien Father Damien
1969 1969
Oklahoma Oklahoma
Sequoyah Sequoyah
1917 1917

~~33 In 2020, at the request of the Commonwealth of Virginia, the Robert E. Lee statue was removed from display in the~~
~~U.S. Capitol. For more information, see Letter from The Honorable Ralph S. Northam, Governor, Commonwealth of~~
~~Virginia, to J. Brett Blanton, Architect of the Capitol, July 31, 2020, https://www.dhr.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/~~
~~2020/08/7.31.2020-RSN-Letter-to-Brett-Blanton.pdf; and Virginia Department of Historic Resources, Commission for~~
~~Historical Statues in the United States Capitol, at https://www.dhr.virginia.gov/uscapitolcommission.~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

7

~~National Statuary Hall Collection: Background and Legislative Options~~

~~Year~~
~~Year~~
~~State~~
~~Statue~~
~~Placed State~~
~~Statue~~
~~Placed~~
Idaho Idaho
Wil iam Edgar Borah Wil iam Edgar Borah
1947 1947
Oregon Oregon
John McLoughlin John McLoughlin
1953 1953
Idaho Idaho
George Laird Shoup George Laird Shoup
1910 1910
Oregon Oregon
Jason Lee Jason Lee
1953 1953
Il inois Il inois
James Shields James Shields
1893 1893
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania
John Peter Gabriel John Peter Gabriel
1889 1889
Muhlenberg Muhlenberg
Il inois Il inois
Frances E. Wil ard Frances E. Wil ard
1905 1905
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania
Robert Fulton Robert Fulton
1889 1889
Indiana Indiana
Lewis Wallace Lewis Wallace
1910 1910
Rhode Island Rhode Island
Nathanael Greene Nathanael Greene
1870 1870
Congressional Research Service 7 link to page 12 National Statuary Hall Collection: Background and Legislative Options Year Year State Statue Placed State Statue Placed Indiana Oliver Hazard Perry~~Indiana~~
~~Oliver Hazard Perry Morton~~
1900 1900
Rhode Island Rhode Island
Roger Wil iams Roger Wil iams
1872 1872 Morton
Iowa Iowa
Dr. Norman E. Borlaug Dr. Norman E. Borlaug
2014 2014
South Carolina South Carolina
John Caldwell John Caldwell ~~Calhoun~~
~~1910~~ 1910 Calhoun
Iowa Iowa
Samuel Jordan Kirkwood Samuel Jordan Kirkwood
1913 1913
South Carolina South Carolina
Wade Hampton Wade Hampton
1929 1929
Kansas Kansas
Amelia Earhart Amelia Earhart
2022 2022
South Dakota South Dakota
Joseph Ward Joseph Ward
1963 1963
Kansas Kansas
Dwight D. Eisenhower Dwight D. Eisenhower
2003 2003
South Dakota South Dakota
Wil iam Henry Wil iam Henry
1938 1938
Harrison Beadle Harrison Beadle
Kentucky Kentucky
Ephraim McDowell Ephraim McDowell
1929 1929
Tennessee Tennessee
John Sevier John Sevier
1931 1931
Kentucky Kentucky
Henry Clay Henry Clay
1929 1929
Tennessee Tennessee
Andrew Jackson Andrew Jackson
1928 1928
Louisiana Louisiana
Edward Douglass White Edward Douglass White
1955 1955
Texas Texas
Stephen Austin Stephen Austin
1905 1905
Louisiana Louisiana
Huey Pierce Long Huey Pierce Long
1941 1941
Texas Texas
Sam Houston Sam Houston
1905 1905
Maine Maine
Wil iam King Wil iam King
1878 1878
Utah Utah
Philo T. Farnsworth Philo T. Farnsworth
1990 1990
Maine Maine
Hannibal Hamlin Hannibal Hamlin
1935 1935
Utah Utah
Brigham Young Brigham Young
1950 1950
Maryland Maryland
Charles Carrol Charles Carrol
1903 1903
Vermont Vermont
Ethan Allen Ethan Allen
1876 1876
Maryland Maryland
John Hanson John Hanson
1903 1903
Vermont Vermont
Jacob Col amer Jacob Col amer
1881 1881
Massachusetts Samuel Adams Massachusetts Samuel Adams
1876 1876
Virginia Virginia
~~Robert E. Lee~~
~~1934~~
~~(Removed from~~
~~display, 2020)~~
George Washington 1934 Massachusetts John Winthrop Massachusetts John Winthrop
1876 1876
Virginia Virginia
~~George Washington~~
~~1934~~
See Table Note Below Michigan Michigan
Lewis Cass Lewis Cass
1889 1889
Washington Washington
Mother Joseph Mother Joseph
1980 1980
Michigan Michigan
Gerald R. Ford Jr. Gerald R. Ford Jr.
2011 2011
Washington Washington
Marcus Whitman Marcus Whitman
1953 1953
Minnesota Minnesota
Maria L. Sanford Maria L. Sanford
1958 1958
West Virginia West Virginia
John E. Kenna John E. Kenna
1901 1901
Minnesota Minnesota
Henry Mower Rice Henry Mower Rice
1916 1916
West Virginia West Virginia
Francis Harrison Francis Harrison
1910 1910
Pierpont Pierpont
Mississippi Mississippi
James Zachariah George James Zachariah George
1931 1931
Wisconsin Wisconsin
Jacques Marquette Jacques Marquette
1896 1896
Mississippi Mississippi
Jefferson Davis Jefferson Davis
1931 1931
Wisconsin Wisconsin
Robert M. La Fol ette Robert M. La Fol ette
1929 1929
Missouri Missouri
Francis Preston Blair Jr. Francis Preston Blair Jr.
1899 1899
Wyoming Wyoming
Washakie Washakie
2000 2000
Missouri Missouri
Harry S. Truman Harry S. Truman
2022 2022
Wyoming Wyoming
Esther Hobart Esther Hobart ~~Morris~~
~~1960~~ 1960 Morris
Source: CRS compilation from Architect of the Capitol National Statuary Hall Col ection website, CRS compilation from Architect of the Capitol National Statuary Hall Col ection website, at
http://www.aoc.gov/the-national-statuary-hall-col ection?capitol_hil =TRUEhttp://www.aoc.gov/the-national-statuary-hall-col ection?capitol_hil =TRUE. Note: The statues of James Paul Clarke (AR) and Robert E. Lee (VA) have been removed from display. For more information, see Table B-1. .
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

8 8

link to page 12 link to page 12 link to page 12 link to page 12 National Statuary Hall Collection: Background and Legislative Options

Appendix B. Statues Replaced in the National
Statuary Hall Collection
Since 2000, states have been allowed to replace statues donated to the collection. Regulations for Since 2000, states have been allowed to replace statues donated to the collection. Regulations for
the replacement of statues were established by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2001.the replacement of statues were established by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2001.3436
Table B-1 provides a list of states that have replaced statues, the year of the replacement, the provides a list of states that have replaced statues, the year of the replacement, the
original statue, and the replacement statue. original statue, and the replacement statue.
Table B-1. Replaced Statues in the National Statuary Hall Collection
State
Year
Original Statue
Replacement Statue
Kansas Kansas
2003 2003
George W. Glick George W. Glick
Dwight D. Eisenhower Dwight D. Eisenhower
Alabama Alabama
2009 2009
Lamar Monroe Curry Lamar Monroe Curry
Helen Keller Helen Keller
California California
2009 2009
Thomas Starr King Thomas Starr King
Ronald Wilson Reagan Ronald Wilson Reagan
Michigan Michigan
2011 2011
Zachariah Chandler Zachariah Chandler
Gerald R. Ford Jr. Gerald R. Ford Jr.
Iowa Iowa
2014 2014
James Harlan James Harlan
Dr. Norman E. Borlaug Dr. Norman E. Borlaug
Arizona Arizona
2015 2015
John Campbell Greenway Barry Goldwater John Campbell Greenway Barry Goldwater
Ohio Ohio
2016 2016
Wil iam Allen Wil iam Allen
Thomas Edison Thomas Edison
Nebraska Nebraska
2019 2019
Wil iam Jennings Bryan Wil iam Jennings Bryan
Chief Standing Bear Chief Standing Bear
Florida Florida
2022 2022
Edmund Kirby Smith Edmund Kirby Smith
Mary McLeod Bethune Mary McLeod Bethune
Kansas Kansas
2022 2022
John James Ingalls John James Ingalls
Amelia Earhart Amelia Earhart
Missouri Missouri
2022 2022
Thomas Hart Benton Thomas Hart Benton
Harry S. Truman Harry S. Truman
Nebraska Nebraska
2023 2023
Julius Sterling Morton Julius Sterling Morton
Wil a Cather Wil a Cather
Arkansas 2024 Uriah Rose Daisy Lee Gatson Bates North Carolina 2024 Charles Aycock Bil y Graham Jr. Arkansas Pending James Paul Clarke Johnny Cash (Removed from display)a Virginia Virginia
Pending Pending
Robert E. Lee Robert E. Lee
Barbara Johns Barbara Johns
(Removed from (Removed from
display, 2020 display, 2020))b
Source: CRS compilation from Architect of the Capitol National Statuary Hall Col ection website, CRS compilation from Architect of the Capitol National Statuary Hall Col ection website, at
http://www.aoc.gov/the-national-statuary-hall-col ection. http://www.aoc.gov/the-national-statuary-hall-col ection.

~~Author Information~~

~~Jacob R. Straus~~
~~R. Eric Petersen~~
~~Specialist on the Congress~~
~~Specialist in American National Government~~

34Notes: a. In 2019, the State of Arkansas enacted a law to replace its two statues in the National Statuary Hall Col ection. The James Paul Clarke statue has been removed from the U.S. Capitol, but it does not appear that it has yet been returned to Arkansas. For more information, see Alex Thomas, “Arkansas Statues Removed from U.S. Capitol in Anticipation of Bates, Cash Statues,” Arkansas Democrat Gazette, April 10, 2024, https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2024/apr/10/arkansas-statues-removed-from-us-capitol-in. b. In 2020, at the request of the Commonwealth of Virginia, the Robert E. Lee statue was removed from display in the U.S. Capitol. For more information, see Letter from The Honorable Ralph S. Northam, Governor, Commonwealth of Virginia, to J. Brett Blanton, Architect of the Capitol, July 31, 2020, https://www.dhr.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/7.31.2020-RSN-Letter-to-Brett-Blanton.pdf. 36 This sentence is based on P.L. 106-554, 114 Stat. 2763A-119 (2000), codified at 22 U.S.C. §2132, and other sources This sentence is based on P.L. 106-554, 114 Stat. 2763A-119 (2000), codified at 22 U.S.C. §2132, and other sources
as noted. as noted.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

9 9

National Statuary Hall Collection: Background and Legislative Options

Author Information Jacob R. Straus Jennifer E. Manning Specialist on the Congress Senior Research Librarian R. Eric Petersen Specialist in American National Government
Disclaimer
This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan
shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and
under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should not be relied upon for purposes other under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should not be relied upon for purposes other
than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in
connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not
subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in
its entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or its entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or
material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to
copy or otherwise use copyrighted material. copy or otherwise use copyrighted material.

Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service
R42812 R42812 · VERSION 3435 · UPDATED
10 10