Congressional Cemetery

The congressional cemetery is a historic cemetery located on the west bank of the Anacostia River. Many members of the US Congress are buried at this cemetery along with thousands of people who helped form the nation.

Other persons who are buried at the cemetery include those who were early landowners, builders and architects who built some of the cities great buildings, Native American diplomats, Mayor and many Civil War veterans.

The cemetery was established in 1807 by private citizens and given to the Christ Church. In 1817 sites were established for government legislators and officials. It is still owned by the Christ Church and managed by the Association for the Preservation of Historic Congressional Cemetery. Over 500 volunteers work around the cemetery throughout the year, the undertake projects such as planting flowers, resetting tombstones, research and writing a newsletter.

Members of the K-9 Corps are able to take advantage of the open areas of the cemetery and allow their togs to walk through here. Members pay a membership fee and follow rules to ensure that the grounds are kept pristine.

The mission of the Congressional Cemetery is to serve the community as an active burial ground. It also aims to conserve the physical features of the cemetery and celebrate the American heritage of those interred there.