|Hwy| Sgi |ggy j^i ^y gst MflWMM {fg i| yy fjjl SB S a J 'It? Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2016 https://archive.org/details/documentaryhisto00unit_0 ^9 ( ou k^» <&*{&* f f). £ \ * • S '"'J I 58th Congress, \ HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, j Report 2d Session. i \ No. 646. DOCUMENTARY HISTORY OF THE CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE UNITED STATES CAPITOL BUILDING AND GROUNDS. January 30, 1904. — Laid on the table and ordered to be printed. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1904. IV Documentary History of the Capitol. unless they present features of special interest having a direct bearing on the general design. A vast amount of manuscript correspondence, scattered among various repositories and in private hands, and dealing with the more intricate particulars of the conduct and financing of the building operations, the purchase of materials, and the employment of service at home and abroad, has been omitted after examination, on account of its slight importance and formidable bulk. The arrangement of the collection is a natural one, obviously sug- gested by the successive stages which characterized the construction and development of the Capitol building and grounds. Thus the early transactions pertaining to the establishment of the permanent seat of Government at the city of Washington are set forth in the preliminary section; the history of the old or central building is developed in a separate section, in chronological order, from the outset down to date, except where clearness demanded other arrangement; and likewise the extensions authorized in 1850. and, successively, the new dome, the grounds, the terraces, and the proposed extension of the central east front. The principal sources of information utilized are — Statutes at, Large of the United States, Manuscript letters of early Government officers, Annals of Congress, Register of Debates, Congressional Globe, Congressional Record, Executive Papers, State Papers, American State Papers, Messages and Papers of the Presidents, House executive documents, Senate executive documents, House miscellaneous documents, Senate miscellaneous documents, House committee reports, Senate committee reports, House Journals, and Senate Journals. DOCUMENTARY HISTORY OF THE CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE UNITED STATES CAPITOL BUILDING AND GROUNDS. H. Rep. 6T6 1 l TABLE OF CONTENTS. Page. I. Preliminary 5 II. The Old Building 14 III. The Extensions _ 408 IV. The Dome 990 V. The Grounds 1032 VI. The Terraces 1200 VII. Proposed Extension of Central East Front 1264 VIII. Index 1284 3 I. PRELIMINARY. [Provision of the Constitution of the United States relating to Federal buildings at the permanent seat of Government. (Article 1, section 8, clause 17.)] Section 8. The Congress shall have Power * * * Xo exercise exclusive Legisla- tion in all Cases whatsoever, over such District (not exceeding ten Miles square) as may, by Cession of particular States, and the Acceptance of Congress, become the Seat of the Government of the United States, and to exercise like Authority over all Places purchased by the Consent of the Legislature of the State in which the Same shall be, for the Erection of Forts, Magazines, and Arsenals, dock-Yards, and other needful Buildings; — And To make all Laws which shall he necessary and proper for carrying into Execution the foregoing Powers, and all other Powers vested by this Constitution in the Government of the United States, or in any Department or Officer thereof. [‘ ‘AN ACT to cede to congress a district of ten miles square in this state for the seat of the government of the United States,” passed Dec. 23, 1788. (Laws of Maryland, Lib. J G, No. 1, fol. 77.)] Be it Enacted, by the General Assembly of Maryland, That the Representatives of this state in the house of representatives of the congress of the United States, appointed to assemble at New- York on the first Wednesday of March next, be and they are hereby authorized and required, on the behalf of this state, to cede to the congress of the United States any district in this state, not exceeding ten miles square, which the congress may fix upon and accept for the seat of government of the United States. [“AN ACT for the Cession of Ten Miles Square, or any lesser Quantity of Territory within this State, to the United States, in Congress assembled, for the permanent Seat of the General Government,” passed Dec. 3, 1789. (Acts of the General Assembly of Virginia, 1789, p. 19.)] Sect. I. Whereas the equal and common benefits resulting from the administration of the general government will be best diffused, and its operations become more prompt and certain, by establishing such a situation for the seat of the said Govern- ment, as will be most central and convenient to the citizens of the United States at large, having regard as well to population, extent of territory, and a free navigation to the Atlantic Ocean, through the Chesapeake Bay, as to the most direct and ready communication with our fellow-citizens in the western frontier; And whereas it appears to this Assembly, that a situation combining all the considerations and advantages before recited, may be had on the banks of the river Patowmack, above tide water, in a country rich and fertile in soil, healthy and salubrious in climate, 5 6 Documentary History of the Capitol. and abounding in all the necessaries and conveniences of life, where, in a location of ten miles square, if the wisdom of Congress shall so direct, the States of Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia may participate in such location: Be it therefore enacted by the General Assembly, That a tract of country, not exceed- ing ten miles square, or any lesser quantity, to be located within the limits of this state, and in any part thereof as Congress may by law direct, shall be, and the same, is hereby forever ceded and relinquished to the Congress and the Government of the United States, in full and absolute right, and exclusive jurisdiction as well of soil, as of persons, residing or to reside thereon, pursuant to the tenor and effect of the eighth section of the first article of the constitution of government of the United States: Sect. II. Provided That nothing herein contained, shall be construed to vest in the United States, any right of property in the soil, or to affect the rights of indi- viduals therein, otherwise than the same shall or may be transferred by such indi- viduals to the United States. Sect. III. And provided also, That the jurisdiction of the laws of this Common- wealth, over the persons and property of indivduals residing within the limits of the cession aforesaid, shall not cease or determine, until Congress, having accepted the said cession, shall by law provide for the government thereof, under their jurisdiction, in manner provided by the article of the constitution before recited. [“AN ACT for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of the Government of the United States,” approved July 16, 1790. (Stats, at Large, v. 1, 130.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That a district of territory, not exceeding ten miles square, to be located as hereafter directed, on the river Potomac, at some place between the mouths of the Eastern Branch and Connogochegue, be, and the same is hereby, accepted for the permanent seat of government of the United States: Provided, never- theless, That the operation of the laws of the State within such district shall not be affected by this acceptance, until the time fixed for the removal of the Government thereto, and until Congress shall otherwise by law provide. Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That the President of the United States be author- ized to appoint, and by supplying vacancies happening from refusals to act or other causes, to keep in appointment as long as may be necessary, three commissioners, who, or any two of whom, shall, under the direction of the President, survey, and by proper metes and bounds define and limit a district of territory, under the limita- tions above mentioned; and the district so defined, limited, and located, shall be deemed the district accepted by this act, for the permanent seat of the government of the United States. Sec. 3. And be it. f urther enacted, That the said commissioners, or any two of them, shall have power to purchase or accept such quantity of land on the eastern side of the said river, within the said district, as the President shall deem proper for the use of the United States, and according to such plans as the President shall approve, the said commissioners, or any two of them, shall, prior to the first Monday in December, in the year one thousand eight hundred, provide suitable buildings for the accommo- dation of Congress, and of the President, and for the public offices of the government of the United States. Sec. I. And be it further enacted, That for defraying the expense of such purchases and buildings, the President of the United States be authorized and requested to accept grants of money. Sec. 5. And be it further enacted, That prior to the first Monday in December next, all offices attached to the seat of the government of the United States, shall be removed to, and until the said first Monday in December, in the year one thousand eight hun- Prd iminary Transactions. 7 dred, shall remain at the city of Philadelphia, in the state of Pennsylvania, at which place the session of Congress next ensuing the present shall be held. Sec. 6. And be it further enacted, That on the said first Monday in December, in the year one thousand eight hundred, the seat of the government of the United States shall, by virtue of this act, be transferred to the district and place aforesaid. And all offices attached to the said seat of government shall accordingly be removed thereto by their respective holders, and shall, after the said day, cease to be exer- cised elsewhere; and that the necessary expense of such removal shall be defrayed out of the duties on imposts and tonnage, of which a sufficient sum is hereby appro- priated. [Senate proceedings of January 24, 1791: Annals of Congress, 1-3, p. 1792.] MESSAGE OF PRESIDENT GEORGE WASHINGTON. Gentlemen of the Senate, ami House of Representatives: In execution of the powers with which Congress were pleased to invest me, by their act entitled “An act for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of Government of the United States;” and, on mature consideration of the advan- tages and disadvantages of the several positions within the limits prescribed by the said act, I have, by a proclamation bearing date this day, (a copy of which is herewith transmitted,) directed commissioners, appointed in pursuance of the act, to suryey and limit a part of the territory of ten miles square, on both sides of the river Potomac, so as to comprehend Georgetown, in Maryland, and extend to the Eastern Branch. I have not, by this first act, given to the said territory the whole extent of which it is susceptible in the direction of the river; because I thought it important that Con- gress should have an opportunity of considering whether by an amendatory law they would authorize the location of the residue, at the lower end of the present, so as to comprehend the Eastern Branch itself, and some of the country on its lower side, in the State of Maryland, and the town of Alexandria, in Virginia. If, however, they are of opinion that the Federal Territory should be bounded by the water edge of the Eastern Branch, the location of the residue will lie to be made at the upper end of what is now directed. I have thought best to await a survey of the territory, before it is decided on what particular spot on the northeastern side of the river, the public buildings shall be erected. Geo. Washington. United States, January 24, 1791. Ordered, That this message lie for consideration. [Broadside in the archives of the Department of State, reprinted in “Messages and Papers of the Presidents,” v. 1, 100.]' By the President of the United States of America. A PROCLAMATION. Whereas the general assembly of the State of Maryland, by an act passed on the 23d day of December, A. D. 1788, intituled “An act to cede to Congress a district of 10 miles square in this State for the seat of the Government of the United States,” did enact that the Representatives of the said State in the House of Representatives of the Congress of the United States, appointed to assemble at New York on the first Wednesday of March then next ensuing, should be, and they were thereby, author- ized and required on the behalf of the said State to cede to the Congress of the United States any district in the said State not exceeding ten miles square which the Con- gress might fix upon and accept for the seat of Government of the United States; Documentary History of the Capitol. And the general assembly of the Commonwealth of Virginia, by an act passed on the 3d day of December, 1789, and intituled ‘ ‘An act for the cession of 10 miles square, or any lesser quantity, of territory within this State to the United States in Congress assembled, for the permanent seat of the General Government,” did enact that a tract of country not exceeding 10 miles square, or any lesser quantity, to be located within the limits of the said State, and in any part thereof, as Congress might by law direct, should be, and the same was thereby, forever ceded and relinquished to the Congress and Government of the United States, in full and absolute right and exclu- sive jurisdiction, as well of soil as of persons residing or to reside thereon, pursuant to the tenor and effect of the eighth section of the first article of the Constitution of Government of the United States; And the Congress of the United States, by their act passed the 16th day of July, 1790, and intituled “An act for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of the Government of the United States,” authorized the President of the United States to appoint three commissioners to survey under his direction and by proper metes and bounds to limit a district of territory, not exceeding 10 miles square on. the river Potomac, at some place between the mouths of the Eastern Branch and Connogo- cheque, which district, so to be located and limited, was accepted by the said act of Congress as the district for the permanent seat of the Government of the United States. Now, therefore, in pursuance of the powers to me confided, and after duly exam- ining and weighing the advantages and disadvantages of the several situations within the limits aforesaid, I do hereby declare and make known that the location of one part of the said district of 10 miles square shall be found by running four lines of experiment in the following manner, that is to say: Running from the court-house of Alexandria, in Virginia, due southwest half a mile, and thence a due southeast course till it shall strike Hunting Creek, to fix the beginning of the said four lines of experiment. Then beginning the first of the said four lines of experiment at the point on Hunting Creek, where the said ; outheast course shall have struck the same, and run- ning the said first line due northwest 10 miles; thence the second line into Maryland due northeast 10 miles; thence the third line due southeast 10 miles, and thence the fourth line due southwest 10 miles, to the beginning on Hunting Creek. And the said four lines of experiment being so run, I do hereby declare and make known that all that part within the said four lines of experiment which shall be within the State of Maryland and above the Eastern Branch, and all that part within the same four lines of experiment which shall be within the Commonwealth of Virginia and above a line to be run from the point of land forming the upper cape of the mouth of the Eastern Branch due southwest, and no more, is now fixed upon and directed to be surveyed, defined, limited, and located for a part of said district accepted by the said act of Congress for the permanent seat of the Government of the United States (hereby expressly reserving the direction of the survey and location of the remaining part of the said district to be made hereafter contiguous to such part or parts of the present location as is or shall be agreeable- to law). And I do accordingly direct the said commissioners, appointed agreeably to the tenor of the said act, to proceed forthwith to run the said lines of experiment, and the same being run, to survey and by proper metes and bounds to define and limit the part within the same which is hereinbefore directed for immediate location and acceptance, and thereof to make due report to me under their hands and seals. In testimony whereof I have caused the seal of the United States to be affixed to these presents and signed the same with my hand. Done at the city of Philadelphia, the 24th day of January, A. D. 1791, and of the Independence of the United States the fifteenth. [seal.] Go. Washington. By the President: Th: Jefferson. Preliminary Transactions. 9 [•‘AN ACT to amend ‘An act for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of the Government of the United States,’ ” approved Mar. 3, 1791. (Stats, at Large, v. 1, 214.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That so much of the act intitled “An act for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of the Government of the United States” as requires that the whole of the district of territory, not exceeding ten miles square, to be located on the river Potomac, for the permanent seat of the Government of the United States, shall be located above the mouth of the Eastern Branch, be, and is hereby, repealed; and that it shall be lawful for the President to make any part of the territory below the said limit and above the mouth of Hunting Creek a part of the said district, so as to include a convenient part of the Eastern Branch and of the lands lying on the lower side thereof and also the town of Alexandria; and the ter- ritory so to be included shall form a part of the district, not exceeding ten miles square, for the permanent seat of the Government of the United States, in like man- ner and to all intents and purposes as if the same had been within the purview of the above recited act: Provided, That nothing herein contained shall authorize the erection of the public buildings otherwise than on the Maryland side of the river Potomac, as required by. the aforesaid act. [From “Messages and Papers of the Presidents,” v. 1, 102.] By THE PltESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. A PROCLAMATION. Whereas by a proclamation bearing date the 24t.h day of January of this present year, and in pursuance of certain acts of the States of Maryland and Virginia and of the Congress of the United States, therein mentioned, certain lines of experiment were directed to he run in the neighborhood of Georgetown, in Maryland, for the purpose of determining the location of a part of the territory of 10 miles square for the permanent seat of the Government of the United States, and a certain part was directed to be located within the said lines of experiment on both sides of the Potomac and above the limit of the Eastern Branch jirescribed by the said act of Congress; And Congress by an amendatory act passed on the 3d day of the present month cf March have given further authority to the President of the United States “to make any part of the territory below the said limit and above the mouth of Hunting Creek a part of said district, so as to include a convenient part of the Eastern Branch and of the lands lying on the lower side thereof, and also the town of Alexandria:” Now, therefore, for the purpose of amending and completing the location of the whole of the said territory of 10 miles square in conformity with the said amendatory act of Congress, I do hereby declare and make known that the whole of the said territory shall be located and included within the four lines following — that is to say: Beginning at Jones’s Point, being the upper cape of Hunting Creek, in Virginia, and at an angle in the outset of 45 degrees west of the north, and running in a direct line 10 miles for the first line; then beginning again at the same Jones’s Point and running another direct line at a right angle with the first across the Potomac 10 miles for the second line; then from the termination of the said first and second lines run- ning two other direct lines of 10 miles each, the one crossing the Eastern Branch aforesaid and the other the Potomac, and meeting each other in a point. And I do accordingly direct the commissioners named under the authority of the said first-mentioned act of Congress to proceed forthwith to have the said four lines run, and by proper metes and bounds defined and limited, and thereof to make due report under the hands and seals;' and the territory so to be located, defined, and 10 Documentary History of the Capitol. limited shall be the whole territory accepted by the said acts of Congress as the dis- trict for the permanent seat of the Government of the United States. In testimony whereof I have caused the seal of the United States to be affixed to these presents and signed the same with my hand. Done at Georgetown aforesaid the 30th day of March, A. D. 1791, and of the Inde- pendence of the United States the fifteenth. [seal.] Go. Washington. [From the third annual address of President George Washington, October 25, 1791. (“ Messages and Papers of the Presidents,” v. 1, 106.)] Pursuant to the authority contained in the several acts on that subject, a district of 10 miles square, for the permanent seat of the Government of the United States has been fixed, and announced by proclamation; which district will comprehend lands on both sides of the river Potomac, and the towns of Alexandria and George- town. A city has also been laid out, agreeably to a plan which will be placed before Congress. And, as there is a prospect, favored by the rate of sales which have already taken place, of ample funds for carrying on the necessary public buildings, there is every expectation of their due progress. [Senate proceedings of December 13, 1791: Annals of Congress, 2-1, p. 48.] A message from the President of the United States u T as received, as follows: Gentlemen of the Senate, and of the House of Representatives: I place before you the plan of a City that has been laid out within the district of Ten Miles Square, which was fixed upon for the Permanent Seat of the Government of the United States. G. Washington. United States, December 13, 1791. T“AN ACT concerning the territory of Colombia and the city of Washington,” passed December 19, 1791. (Laws of Maryland, Lib. JG, No. 1, fol. 431)]. Whereas the President of the United States, by virtue of several acts of congress, and acts of the assemblies of Virginia and Maryland, by his proclamation, dated at Georgetown on the thirtieth day of March, seventeen hundred and ninety-one, did declare and make known, that the whole of the territory of ten miles square, for the permanent seat of government of the United States, shall be located and included within the four lines following; that is to say, * * * II. Be it enacted, by the general assembly of Maryland, That all that part of the said territory called Columbia, w’hich lies within the limits of this state, shall be and the same is hereby acknowledged to be forever ceded and relinquished to the con- gress and government of the United States, in full and absolute right, and exclusive jurisdiction, as well of soil as of persons residing, or to reside, thereon, pursuant to the tenor and effect of eighth section of the first article of the constitution of govern- ment of the United States; provided, that nothing herein contained shall be so con- strued to vest in the United States any right of property in the soil, or to affect the rights of individuals therein, otherwise than the same shall or may be transferred by such individuals to the United States: and provided also, that the jurisdiction of the If ■=3 cn CD ]□ ~~t T )253^4tj S3 Cf dd /^□□□□□□D ' a| ^[ □BBOTCOB0 3DOOK§ BmOUDDOBSab pood £Z 3t3 c^chdopcd qaaro^oac - - '*** JlM-so ffa. i W^,y *Jv*Jjuirt0f rfo City, 4' OVti;/iif \ "\_ M " tlfnl/fronuu Ht/friu,. "R \ Zdjjtct^ maJ, iwa CruccJy j,f^(f ^f /.,,,, v J Acyfo, at/djS Ojln In *c . Ke ft run _ ■ ( *»Mtrot, f fillfjJ l ,vooh t/ui - I {f*rxl,.,iAntytJit' - Atymticu/ar At. jf jS'&.WttL 4 0n ,^ j £ I f*, Wjiivf/S%*'.br/c. y *n/ C fcfitir £ttcAj> J ^ T ? is V "Y MAP OK PETER CHARI.ES [..’ENFANT, 09' Preliminary Transactions. 11 laws of this state, over the persons and property of individuals residing within the limits of the cession aforesaid, shall not cease or determine until congress shall by law provide for the government thereof, under their jurisdiction in manner provided by the article of the constitution before recited. -x- * -x- [From “Messages and Papers of the Presidents,” v. 1, 136.] United States, February 18, 1793. Gentlemen af the Senate and of the Home of Representatives: I now lay before you a report and plat of the territory of the United States on the Potomac, as given in by the commissioners of that territory, together with a letter from the Secretary of State, which accompanied them. These papers, being original, are to be again deposited with the records of the Department of State after having answered the purpose of your information. Go. Washington. [“An Act to retrocede the county of Alexandria, in the District of Columbia, to the State of Virginia,” approved July 9, 1846. (Stats, at Large, v. 9, 35.)] Whereas, no more territory ought to be held under the exclusive legislation given to Congress over the District which is the seat of the General Government than may be necessary and proper for the purposes of such a seat; And whereas, experience hath shown that the portion of the District of Columbia ceded to the United States by the State of Virginia has not been, nor is ever likely to be, necessary for that purpose; And whereas, the State of Virginia, by an act passed on the third day of February, eighteen hundred and forty-six, entitled “An act accepting by the State of Virginia the county of Alexandria, in the District of Columbia, when the same shall be receded by the Congress of the United States,” hath signified her willingness to take back the said territory ceded as aforesaid: Therefore, Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That, with the assent of the people of the county and town of Alexandria, to be ascertained as hereinafter prescribed, all that portion of the District of Columbia ceded to the United States by the State of Virginia, and all the rights and jurisdiction therewith ceded over the same, be, and the same are hereby, ceded and forever relinquished to the State of Virginia, in full and absolute right and juris- diction, as well of soil as of persons residing or to reside thereon. -x * * [From “Celebration of the One Hundredth Anniversary of the Laying of the Corner Stone of the Capitol of the LTnited States,” by Gen. Duncan S. Walker, p. 115. Public document: 1896.] THE CAPITOL, WITH SOME NOTICE OF ITS ARCHITECTS. By Edward Clark. The original portion of the Capitol is constructed of sandstone from quarries at Aquia Creek, Virginia. Its dimensions are 352 feet 4 inches by 229 feet in depth. The extensions were begun in 1851, and were occupied by Congress in 1859. The material used is white marble from quarries at Lee, Mass.; that in the columns from quarries at Cockeysville, Md. The extensions were completed in 1861 ; the dome, in 1863; and the terraces, in 1891. The entire frontage of the building is 751 feet 4 inches, and its greatest depth 350 feet. Total cost, including terraces, $14,455,000. 12 Documentary History of the Capitol. The duty of erecting the public buildings at the permanent seat of government was intrusted by Congress to President Washington and three commissioners to be selected by him. In 1792 designs were solicited by this commission and many plans were presented, but few were thought worthy of consideration. An award was made to Dr. William Thornton and to Mr. Stephen Hallette for designs by Lhem sub- mitted, and although Dr. Thornton’s plan was followed to some extent, he not being a trained architect, the work of constructing the building was intrusted to Stephen Hallette. Mr. Hallette came to the United States from France just previous to the Revolu- tion and established himself in Philadelphia. In 1792 he became Architect of the Capitol, continuing as such until 1794. Upon his retirement the control of the building passed into the hands of James Hoban, who, as surveyor of the public works, had been previously connected with the construction of the building. Hoban was a native of Ireland, and had settled in Charleston, S. C., just after the Revolutionary war. His principal work was designing and constructing the Presi- dent’s Mansion. His connection with the Capitol continued for ten years, or until 1802, during which period George Hatfield, as architect, was also engaged upon the work from 1795 to 1798. Hatfield was an Englishman by birth, educated as an architect in London. He designed also the old State, War, and Navy Department buildings and the present city hall. In 1803 Benjamin H. Latrobe was appointed by President Jefferson. He con- tinued in the service until 1817, with the exception of the period of the last war with Great Britain. He restored the portions of the building destroyed during that war. Mr. Latrobe was born and educated in his profession in England, coming to America in 1796. While living in Philadelphia he designed and constructed many public buildings in that city. It is to his genius we owe the design and finish of the Senate Chamber, now occupied by the Supreme Court, the old Flail of Representa- tives, and the interior of the wings of the central building. Upon his resignation, in 1817, Charles Bullfinch, of Boston, Mass., was appointed his successor. Mr. Bullfinch constructed the Rotunda, Library rooms, and central porticoes. His connection with the building ceased upon its completion, in 1830, and the Capitol was then placed in charge of the Commissioner of Public Buildings and Grounds until 1851, when the plans of Thomas LL Walter for the extension were adopted and he was appointed architect to construct the wings. The work was commenced by laying the corner stone of the south wing July 4, 1851. The entire work was prosecuted with vigor. The Hall of Representatives, south wing, was occupied December 16, 1857, and the Senate Chamber, in the north wing, January 4, 1859. Mr. Walter was born in Philadelphia, and had designed many of the principal structures in that city, among which is Girard College for Orphans. He resigned his charge in 1865, and was succeeded by the present architect, Edward Clark, his pupil, who is a native of the same city. During Mr. Clark’s term of sendee the porticoes of the wings were finished, the marble terraces and grand stairways constructed, and the Capitol grounds extended and remodeled, the latter under plans furnished by Frederick Law Ohnsted, land- scape architect. Among those who have been connected with the construction of the wings of the Capitol and the new dome, the important services of Gen. M. C. Meigs should be noticed As captain of Engineers, United States Army, he served for several years in charge of the engineering part of the work, and much is due to his skill in the construction of the Dome and in planning and arranging the heating and ventilating apparatus of the wings. [Edward Clark died January 6, 1902. Elliott Woods, succeeding him, was appointed Superintendent of the Capitol Building and Grounds, February 20, 1902, under the NORTHEAST VIEW OF CAPITOL, 1903. Shown by photograph of model. Preliminary Transactions. 13 following provision, contained in the urgent deficiency act approved February 14, 1902: “ Hereafter the office of Architect of the Capitol shall be designated as Super- intendent of the Capitol Building and Grounds, and the Superintendent of the Cap- itol Building anil Grounds shall hereafter exercise all the power and authority here- tofore exercised by the Architect of the Capitol, and he shall be appointed by the President: Provided, That no change in the architectural features of the Capitol building or in the landscape features of the Capitol grounds shall be made except on plans to be approved by Congress.”] [From the annual report of Elliott Woods, Superintendent of the Capitol Building and Grounds, July 1, 1903 (pamphlet edition, p. 3).] The Capitol building contains 430 rooms now devoted to office, committee, and storage purposes; 679 windows; 550 doorways; 140 fireplaces; 90 toilets; 45 urinals; 261 wash basins and sinks; 14 bath tubs; 15 ventilating fans and 18 motors; 8 eleva- tors; 2,048 horsepower of boilers for heating and lighting; 8 steam pumps for boiler and lire service; the lighting service equivalent to 25,000 incandescent lamps of 16 candlepower each, and 14,518 square feet of skylights formed of iron and glass. II. THE OLD BUILDING [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1. 41: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] THE COMMISSIONERS TO THE PRESIDENT. George-Town, Now. 26th 1791. Sir: A variety of considerations have induced us to think, that many and great benefits might result from the employment of a person of intelligence, to make a tour for a few months into the Eastern States, and inform himself of the terms on which men, and materials may be had. We are happy that Mr. Cabot’s engage- ments have permitted him to undertake this office. We have requested him to call on you before he leaves Philadelphia, and hope you will suggest to him whatever may occur to you as most proper to be attended to, in addition to the communications we have imparted to him. * * * We are, Ac., Dd. Stuart, Dl. Carroll. The President of the United States. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 74: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] THOMAS JEFFERSON TO THE COMMISSIONERS. Philadelphia, March 6th, 1792. Gentlemen, * * * I enclose you the Project of a Plan which is agreed on, if you approve it — your answer will be immediately expected and it is kept entirely secret, till the subscriptions are actually opened. With this Money in aid of your other funds, the works may be pushed with such spirit as to evince to the world it will not be relaxed. The immediate employment of a superintendant of activity, and intelligence equal to the nature of his functions and the public expectation becomes important. You will doubtless also consider it as necessary to advertise immediately for Plans of the Capitol and President’s house. The sketch of an advertisement for the Plan of a Capitol which Mr. Johnson had sent to the President, is now returned with some alterations; and one also for a president’s House both of them subject to your pleasure, and when accommodated to that, if you will return them, they shall be advertised here, and elsewhere. The President thinks it of prime importance to press the providing as great quantities of brick, Stone, Lime, Plank, Timber, &c. this year as possible. It will occur to you that the Stone should be got by a skillful hand. Knowing what will be your funds you will be able to decide which of the following works had better be undertaken for the present year — The cellers of both houses. The foundations of one, or both. * * * p) 0 y 0U no t think it would be expedient to take measures for importing a number of Germans and Highlanders? This need not be to such an extent as to 14 The Old Building. 15 prevent the employment of eastern laborers, which is eligible for particular reasons. If you approve of the importation of Germans and have a good channel for it, you will use it, of course. If you have no channel, I can help you to one. * * * 1 have the honor to be with the most perfect esteem and respect, Gentlemen, &c., Th. Jeffeeson. [Letter from President George Washington to David Stuart, one of the Commissioners of the District of Columbia. (Worthington Chauncey Ford’s collection, “ The Writings of George Washington,” v. xii, pp. 106-7.)] Philadelphia, 8 March 1792. Dear Sie, * * * The doubts and opinions of others with respect to the permanent seat have occa- sioned no change in my sentiments on the subject. They have always been, that the plan ought to be prosecuted with all the dispatch the nature of the case will admit, and that the public buildings in size, form and elegance, should look beyond the present day. I would not have it understood from hence that I lean to extrava- gance. — A chaste plan sufficiently capacious and convenient for a period not too remote, but one to which we may reasonably look forward, would meet my idea in the Capitol. For the President’s House I would design a building which should also look forward but execute no more of it at present than might suit the circumstances of this country, when it shall be first wanted. A Plan comprehending more improve- ment executed at a future period when the wealth, population, and importance of it shall stand upon much higher ground than they do at present. * * * [Advertisement for plans of the Capitol. (“ Gazette of the United States,” Philadelphia, Pa., Mar. 24, 1792, and other newspapers.)] WASHINGTON, IN THE TERRITORY OF COLUMBIA. A PREMIUM O f a LOT in this City, to be designated by impartial judges, and FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS; or a MEDAL of that value, at the option of the party; will be given by the Commissioners of the Federal Buildings, to the person who, before the fifteenth day of July, 1792, shall produce to them the most approved PLAN, if adopted by them, for a CAPITOL, to be erected in this City; and TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS, or a MEDAL, for the Plan deemed next in merit to the one they shall adopt. The building to be of brick, and to contain the following compartments, to wit: A Conference Room A Room for the Representatives A Lobby or Antichamber to the A Senate Room of 1200 square fe An Antichamber or Lobby to th 12 Rooms of 600 square feet area each, for Committee Rooms and Clerks’ Offices, to be of half the elevation of the former. Drawings will be expected of the ground plats, elevations of each front, and sec- tions through the building of such directions as may be necessary to explain the internal structure; and an estimate of the cubic feet of the brick- work composing the whole mass of the walls. sufficient to accommodate 300 persons each. latter st area 3 last These rooms to be of full elevation. March 14, 1792. The Commissioners. 18 Documentary History of the Capitol . [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 104: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] George-Town, 17th July 1792. Sir: We had the pleasure of receiving your Plan for a Capitol, and laid that with several others before the President. Neither of them has met with entire approba- tion. The Stile of Architecture of yours has atracted, the Distribution, of the Parts, is not thought sufficiently convenient. Perhaps it may be necessary to cover more Area and Add a large room or two * * * We are, Sir, Tn. Johnson, Dd. Stuart, Danl. Carroll. Samuel S. Hallet to care of Mr. Taylor \ Secretary of State Office Philadelphia. ) [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 105: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] . Mount Vernon July 23d 1792 Gentlemen, Your favour of the 19th accompanying Judge Turner’s plan for a Capitol, I have duly received, and have no hesitation in declaring that I am more agreeably struck with the appearance of it, than with any that has been presented to you. * * * There is the same defect, however, in this plan, as there is all the plans which have been presented to you — namely, the want of an Executive Apart- ment; which ought if possible, to be obtained. The Dome, which is suggested as an Addition to the center of the edifice, would, in my oppinion, give a beauty and granduer to the Pile; and might be usefull for the reception of a Clock, Bell — &c. — The Pilastrade too in my judgement, ought (if the Plan is adopted) to be carried around the semicircular projections at the end; but whether it is necessary to have the elevation of the Upper Story 41 feet is questionable; unless it be to preserve exactness in the proportion of the several parts of the building; — in that Case, the Smaller Rooms in that Storey would be elivated sufficiently if cut in two, and would be the better for it in the interior provided they can be lighted. — This would add to the number of Committee rooms of which there appears to be a deficiency. * * * Could such a plan as Judge Turner’s be surrounded with Columns, and a colonade like that which was presented to you by Monsr. Hallet (the roof of Hallet’s, I must confess does not hit my taste) without departing from the principles of Architecture, and would not be too expensive for our means, it would, in my judgement, be a noble and desirable Structure. But, I would have it understood in this instance and always when I am hazarding a Sentiment on these buildings, that I Profess to have no knouledge in Architecture, and think we should (to avoid criticisms) be governed by the established Rules which are laid down by the Professors of this Art. I think you have engaged Mr. Hoben upon advantageous Terms; and hope if his industry and honesty are of a Piece with the specimen he has given of his abilities, he will prove a usefull man, and a considerable acquisition. * * * With great esteem and regard, I remain, Gentlemen, &c., Go. Washington. Th. Johnson Dd. Stewart Danl. Carroll Commissioners. The Old Building. 19 [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 108: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] THE COMMISSIONERS TO THOMAS JOHNSON, George Town 3d August 1792 Sir, * * * We think it very desireable that we should have a meeting as soon as Judge Turners Plan can be forwarded to us, that we may immediately set to dig- ging the foundation for the Capitol. As you will no doubt see Mr. Turner, and know when it will be ready, we shall leave the appointment of the time to you. We are, Sir, &c., Dd. Stuart, Danl. Carroll. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 111: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, far Department.] Washington 29tli August 1792 Sir, The President was with us Monday and Tuesday — Judge Turner and Monsr. Hallet, who had each furnished a Plan, for a Capitol attended — and occasioned a Special meeting. Yours with theirs was under consideration. Something in each, as well as in an Essay of Mr. Harbough’s gave information and claimed approving notice— none appeared so compleate in the whole as to fix a decided Opinion which did not appear to be essential at this time, to the progress of the Execution, therefore and to give an opportunity for the Plans you expect entering into Competition the final Decision is put off. The Advertisement was drawn up without so full a con- sideration of the Room necessary, as might have led the Ingenious, to sufficiently specified objects, the Enclosed paper will appear the better matured Ideas of the President and Commissioners on this Head. Tho’ limitted in the means we are determined to embrace a Plan which may from its extent, its Design, and Taste do credit to the Age in which, we propose to ourselves to share only in common with our Cotemporaries, for our ambition reaches so far, and so far only, and we shall be happy to receive every Light and Opinion which may tend to Effect this View. We are likely to collect a good dale of Architectural, Ability and with it a reasonable Stock of good Temper and Modesty. * * * We are, Sir, &c., Th. Johnson, Dd. Stuart, Danl. Carroll. Samuel Blodget, Junior, Esqr. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 125: Office of Public Building and Grounds, War Department.] THE COMMISSIONERS TO MR. WILLIAM THORNTON. Georgetown 4th Be 1792. Sir, Your letter of 9th Ulmo is now before us. We have to inform you that as none of the plans sent in for the Capitol met with our entire approbation, Mr. Hallet a French artist was engaged to prepare one, which he tells us will be finished by the first of next Month. As we shall then forward it immediately to the President, we think it will be best, for you, to lodge your plan, with the Secretary of State, for the President’s inspection, who, when he returns Mr. Hallets, plan will also send us yours. We are, &c., Dd. Stuart, Danl. Carroll. 20 Documentary History of the Capitol. [From Washington Chauneey Ford’s “Writings of Washington,” v. 12, 215.] PRESIDENT GEORGE WASHINGTON TO THE COMMISSIONERS. Philadelphia, 18 December, 1792. Gentlemen, Your letter to the Secretary of State dated if I recollect rightly the 5th instant intimating among other things, that you had failed in an attempt which had been made to import workmen from Scotland, equally with that for obtaining them from Holland, fills me with real concern; for I am very apprehensive if your next campaign in the Federal City is not marked with vigor, it will cast such a cloud over this business, and will so arm the enemies of the measure, as to enable them to give it (if not its death blow) a wound from which it will not easily recover. No means therefore, in my opinion, should be left unessayed to facilitate the operations of next year. Eyery thing, in a manner, depends upon the celerity with which the public buildings are then carried on. — Sale of Lots — private buildings — good or evil report — all, all will be regulated thereby. — Nothing therefore short of the absolute want of money, ought to retard the work. The more I consider the subject, the more I am convinced of the expediency of importing a number of workmen from Europe to be employed in the Federal City. The measure has only oeconomy to recommend it, but it is important by placing the quantity of labor which may be performed by such persons upon a certainty for the term for which they shall be engaged. Upon more minute inquiry I am informed that neither the merchants here nor in Holland will undertake to procure redemptioners from Germany; and that the most eligible and certain mode of obtaining from thence such mechanics and laborers as it may be thought advisable to procure from that quarter, will be to engage some person, a German, to go from hence into Germany, where he is acquainted, to pro- cure the requisite number of men and bring them to the shipping port, which is generally Amsterdam or Rotterdam, and that any merchant here (who is engaged in shipping trading to Holland) will engage to have a vessel ready to take them on board at a time which shall be fixed, and bring them to any port in the United States that may be specified and receive the amount of their passage on delivery of them. » * * It is not however, my wish that the idea of importing workmen should be confined solely to Germany — I think it ought, to be extended to other places particularly Scotland, from whence many good and useful mechanics may undoubtedly be had. * * * Upon the whole, it will readily be perceived in what a serious light I consider delay in the progress of the- public buildings, and how anxious I am to have them pushed forward. — In a word, the next year is the year that, will give the tone to the City. * * * [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings nnd Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 131: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] MR. JEFFERSON TO THE COMMISSIONERS. Philadelphia, 23d December, 1792. Gentlemen, Thinking it best that you should receive all possible information on the subject of procuring workmen, in order that you may avail yourselves of such parts of it as circumstances render eligible, I have the honor to mention to you, that in a conversation with Mr. Pierpoint. Edwards and Colonel Wadsworth of Connecticut, they inform me that any number of house Carpenters may be got in that. State, as far perhaps as 500, or 1000, their wages f of a Dollar and to be fed. They have but The Old Building. 21 few Masons, however some may be had, they combine their, the cutting and laying stone, and laying brick, they mention one Trowbridge as one of their best work- men. however 1 could not find that he had ever done anything higher than stone steps, he never had even cut a column, his wages a Dollar a day and fed. they think also that common labourers may be got there, they observe that Connecticut is a better place to apply to than Boston where there being a greater demand for workmen, they are dearer and more difficult to draw from their own Country. I have the honor to be with great esteem, Gentlemen, &e., Th. Jefferson. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 134: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] THE COMMISSIONERS TO THE MUNICIPALITY OF BOURDEAUX. City of Washington, 4th Jany. 1793 Sirs, We have the Honor to be intrusted, by General Washington, President of the United States, with the Commission of raising the public buildings, for the accommodation of Government, in the Capitol of the American States, and conduct- ing the affairs of this new City — An honor that swells our ambition, to express in some Degree in the Stile of our Architecture, the sublime sentiments of Liberty which are common to Frenchmen and Americans. We wish to exhibit a grandure of con- ception, a Republican simplicity, and that, true Elegance of proportion which corre- sponds to, a tempered freedom excluding Frivolity, the food of little minds. Our Country is young in Arts — from whence may we better expect Assistance than from the only nation who think and act as America on the End of Government and the rights of man? where the Arts have been sedulously cultivated for ages and whose peopled Cities cannot feel the emigration of a number most useful here in cementing the Fraternal Affections of the two nations. We request that Mr. Fenwick may have your permission to engage some of your Citizens to come over to us — we shall not distinguish, to their prejudice, between them and our own Citizens, we have written to him, but his Attempt is to depend on your acceding to our wishes. While we deplore some of those events which cannot possibly be wholly prevented in a great Revolution, we rejoice Personally and our nation rejoices in the liberty of French- men. May their affairs be wisely conducted, and they free and happy. Permit us to present, by the Hands of Mr. Fenwick a Plan of the City of Washington for your acceptance. We are with sentiments of high Respect and Esteem, your &c., Tii. Johnson, 3 Copies to be sent at different ^ Dd. Stuart, Opportunities. Danl. Carroll. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 135: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] THE COMMISSIONERS TO MR. FENWICK. Washington, 4th Jany, 1793. Sir: We have occasion for a considerable additional number of Mechanicks to effect the public buildings in the City. W e have excellent free-stone and have resolved to make the walls of it, for the propriety and durability of the work and to lead the taste. Stone-cutters are scarce here and must be plenty in France. We do not know to what degree those Edifices may be - ornamented, but in our Taste not to a high Degree. We have had conversation with your Mr. Mason, and also with a Mr. Hallet, a French Architect who is retained in the Public service, and stauds high in Documentary History of the Capitol. 22 our opinion, they both encourage our hopes to avail ourselves of the ability of French Mechanics for whom we have a real predeliction, hut would not move in it without the permission of the Municipality. * * * You will present our letter to the Municipality with a Plan of the City, to which you may join as from yourself one of the Almanacks sent you not interesting there as an Almanack but from its containing as far as it goes a true and by no means exaggerated account of this situation. If you have permission to enter into engagements with the Citizens, we wish you to send us fifty or Sixty plain Stone-cutters and Masons, at least two thirds Stone-cutters of the number you may send. The terms are enclosed than which we cannot conceive more generous can be desired. * * * We are Sir, &c., Tn. Johnson, Du. Stuart, Danl. Carroll. p g * * * [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City- of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 142: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] TIIE COMMISSIONERS TO SAMUEL BLODGET. Washington 5th Jany. 1793 Sir: * * * You are retained for one year commencing the first instant, as Super- visor of the Buildings and in general the Affairs committed to our care * * * in general our idea is that you are to be next in power to ourselves and to extend your attention to the Economical and executive part advising, or making in our Absence the contract fo-r Materials, Labour, and the like, * * * We have taken the Measures most likely as we judge to succeed for the Introduction of foreign Mechanics — the number we have attempted is greater than we want, we shall probably fail of some and if all should come, the only possible bad consequence will be dis- tressing our friends in no great degree. Plain Stone-cutters we most want and they have been our principal Object, without a good many we shall be at a stand. Where- fore if it should be in your way we wish you to forward an immediate increase. We are strong enough we are told, in Carpenters * * * Mr. Hoban is to Endeavour to get a good Brickmaker from Philadelphia * * * We may have a good many Negro Labourers. * * * We are Sir, &c., , Th. Johnson, Dn. Stuart, Danl. Carroll. [Mss.: Letters of the Presidents of the United States, p. 29: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] [Private.] Philadelphia, 31 January, 1793. Gentlemen: I have had under consideration Mr. Hallet-’s plans for [the Capitol, which undoubtedly have a great deal of merit. Doctor Thornton has also given me a view of his. These last came forward under some very advantageous circum- stances. The Grandeur, Simplicity, and Beauty of the exterior — the propriety with which the apartments are distributed — and economy in the mass of the whole struc- ture, will, I doubt not, give it a preference, in your eyes, as it has done in mine, and those of several others whom I have consulted, and who are deemed men of skill in Architecture. I have therefore thought it better to give the Doctor time to finish his plan, and for this purpose to delay’ till your next meeting a final decision. — Some difficulty arises with respect to Mr. Hallet, who you know was in some degree led Rep. 646 THORNTON’S WEST ELEVATION. SHOWING ALTERNATE DESIGN FOR DOME. The Old Building. 23 into his plans Dy ideas we all expressed to him. This ought not to induce us to prefer it to a better; but while he is liberally rewarded for the time and labour he has expended on it, his feelings should be saved and soothed as much as possible. I leave it to yourselves how best to prepare him for the possibility that the Doc- tor’s plan might be preferred to his. Some ground for this will be furnished you by the occasion you probably will have for recourse to him as to the interior of the apartments, and the taking him into service, at a fixed allowance, and I understand that his necessities render it material that he should know what his allowance is to be. — With great esteem I am, Gentlemen, your most Obdt. Servt., Go. Washington. The Commissioners of the Federal District. [From H. A. Washington’s “ Writings of Thomas Jefferson, v. 3, 508.] MR. JEFFERSON TO MR. CARROLL. Philadelphia, February 1, 1793. Dear Sir: Doctor Thornton’s plan of a capitol has been produced, and has so cap- tivated the eyes and judgment of all as to leave no doubt you will prefer it when it shall be exhibited to you; as no doubt exists hereof its preference over all which have been produced, and among its admirers no one is more delighted than him whose decision is most important. It is simple, noble, beautiful, excellently dis- tributed, and moderate in size. The purpose of this letter is to apprize you of this sentiment. A just respect for the right of approbation in the commissioners will pre- vent any formal decision in the President till the plan shall be laid before you and be approved by you. The Doctor will go with it to your meeting in the beginning of March. In the meantime, the interval of apparent doubt may be improved for settling the mind of poor Hallet, whose merit and distress interest every one for his tranquillity and pecuniary relief. I have taken the liberty of making these private estimates, thinking you would wish to know the true state of the sentiments here on this subject, and am with sincere respect and esteem for your colleagues and ydur- self, dear sir, Your most obedient humble servant, [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 155: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] THE COMMISSIONERS TO MR. JEFFERSON. Washington 7th Feby 1793. Sir, * * * We shall send you by the first opportunity to be met with, some of the Samples of Marble from the Potomac which we have had polished. Tho’ we are much pleased that we shall at length be furnished with the Plan of a Capitol so highly satisfactory to the President, and all who have seen it, we feel sensibly for poor Hallet, and shall do everything in our power to sooth him, we hope he may be usefully employed notwithstanding. * * * We are, Sir, &c., Dd. Stuart, Danl. Carroll. * * * 24 Documentary 11 /.story of the Capitol. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, y. 1, 117: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Philadelphia, March 3d, 1793 Gentlemen, This will be handed to you by Doctor Thornton of this City, who goes forward to lay before you a Plan which he has prepared for the Capitol to be built in the Federal City. Grandeur, Simplisity and Convenience, appear to be so well combined in this Plan of Doctor Thornton’s, that I have no doubt of its meet- ing with that approbation from you, which I have given it under an attentive inspec- tion, and which it has received from all those who have seen it and are considered as judges of such things. How far the expences of such a building, as exhibited by the plan, will comport with the funds of the City, we will be the best judges, after having made an estimate of the quantity of materials and labour to be employed in executing it. — And to obviate objection that may be raised on this head, it should be considered, that the external of the building will be the only immediate expence to be incurred. — The internal work — and many of the ornamental without, may be finished gradually, as the means will permit, and still the whole' be compleated within the time contem- plated by law for the use of the building. — With very great esteem, I am, Gentlemen, &c., Go. Washington. The Commissioners of the Federal District. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 165: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] TIIE COMMISSIONERS TO THE PRESIDENT. George Town, lltli March, 1793. Sir: Doctor Thorntons Plan for a Capitol has been laid before us; the rooms for the different Branches of Congress and the Conference room, are much to our satisfaction and its outward appearance we expect will be striking and pleasing. On the whole it gains our preference tho. we cannot but fear that several of the Small rooms, of which there seems to us, there are more than necessary will want Light, perhaps by lessening the number of them the Objection may in some Measure be obviated. We have no estimate accompanying the Plan, nor can one be found soon which could give much satisfaction: In our Idea the Capitol ought in point of propriety to be on a grand Scale, and that a Republic especially ought not to be sparing of expences on an Edifice for such purposes, yet under the uncertain state of our funds depending altogether on opinion though the current seems to be gaining strength we cannot but feel a degree of anxiety for the Event of Expensive undertakings, when According to the Candor of the World our Characters will be judged, not on present Circumstances but on efficiency or want of funds when the Fact is disclosed. * * * We are Sir, with great regard and true esteem, your most Obt. Servts., Th. Johnson, Dd. Stuart, Danl. Carroll. P. S. We expect the work will.go on. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 170: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] THE COMMISSIONERS TO SAMUEL BLODGET. Geo. Town 13th March 1793 Sir: It is very desirable that the Buildings in the Neighborhood of the Principal Points in the City particularly the Capitol and the Presidents House should be in a . Rep. 646 — 58 The Old Building. 25 Style which will prove agreeable instead of offensive to the view. We therefore request that in the sales of Lots in such situations, you will be attentive to the prob- ability of handsome Buildings being placed on them at an early Period. We are, &c., Th. Johnson, Dn. Stuart, Danl. Carroll. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 171: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] THE COMMISSIONERS TO MR. HALLET. Geo. Town 13th March 1793 Sir, The plan you first offered for a Capitol appeared to us to have a great share of Merit, none met with entire Approbation, yours Approaching the nearest to the leading Ideas of the President & Commissioners. Your Time has been engrossed in unremitted Efferts, under your Hope and our wishes that you would have car- ried the Prize. Our Opinion has preferred Doctor Thorntons and we expect the President will confirm our Choice. Neither the Doctor or yours can demand the Prize under the Strict Terms of our Advertisement, but the Public has been bene- fited by the Emulation Exited and the End having been answered we shall give the reward of 500 Dollars and a Lot to Dr. Thornton. You certainly rank next and because your Application has been exited by particular request, we have resolved to place you on the same footing as near as may be, that is to allow a Compensation for every Thing to this Time, 100 £ being the Value of a Lot and 500 Dollars. We are, &c., Th. Johnson, Dd. Stuart, Dan. Carroll. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 177: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] George Town 5 April 1793 Sr, The President has given his formal approbation of your plan. You will there- fore be pleased to grant powers or put the business in a way of being closed on the acknowledgments your success entitles you. As soon as the nature of the work and your convenience will permit, we wish to be in possession of your explanations and remarks with the plan for we wish to mark out the ground and make preparations and even begin to lay the Foundation this fall. We are, &c., T. Johnson, Dd. Stuart, Danl. Carroll. Doer. Wm. Thornton, Phila. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 180: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] THE COMMISSIONERS TO THE PRESIDENT. George Town 9th April 1793 Sr. * * * The spot for the Capitol is with us much more important, it is obvious that there will be a great difference of expence between the pitch of the hill and the high flatt. * * * Doct. Thornton threw out an idea that the Capitol might be 26 Documentary History of the Capitol. thrown back to the desirable Spot and the center ornamented with a Figure of Columbus. The idea seems not to be disapproved by Mr. Blodget, and Ellicot thinks there’s room enough — it does not seem to us that there is any striking impro- priety and with that you could consider it on the spot where you could have the most perfect idea of it. * * * We are, &e., T. Johnson, Dd. Stuart, Danl. Carroll. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 185: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Geo. Town 23rd June 1793. Sr. * * * We had desired Mr. Hallet to study Doct. Thornton’s plan of a Capitol, we thought it prudent that the whole together and every part seperately should be in the mind of some person who was to see to the execution, perhaps it may lie Hallet — perhaps not, he has been industrious and reports rather unfavorable on the great points of practicability time and expence he has simplified and abridged the plan, we have had not great time to consider it. Mr. Blodget and Mr. IJoben seem to be in favour of it and so does Williamson, we wish for your Instructions, as it would be a lengthy work to go into particulars in writing if our ideas were the most perfect, we begg leave to refer you to Mr. Blodget Hoben and Hallet whose verbal information will be better than any we can give you. * * * We are, Sir, Very truly and respectfully, your most Obt, Humbl. Servts., Th Johnson, Dd. Stuart, Danl. Carroll. The President. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 195: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Philadelphia July 17th 1793 Sir, According to the desire expressed in your letter of June 30th I called together Doctr. Thornton, Mr. Hallet, Mr. Hoben and a judicious undertaker of this place, Mr. Carstairs, chosen by Doctr. Thornton, as a competent Judge of the objections made to his plan of the Capitol for the City of Washington. — These objections were proposed & discussed on a view of the plans. The most material were the following. 1st. The inter colonnations of the Western and Central peristyles are too wide for the support of the architraves of stone; so are those of the doors, in the Wings. — 2d. the Colonnade passing through the middle of the conferrence-rooms an ill effect to the eye and will obstruct the view of the members; and if taken away the ceiling is too wide to support itself. 3d. The floor of the Central peristyle is too wide to support itself. — 1. The stair ways on each side of the conferrence room, want head room. 5. The windows are in some important instances masked by the Galleries. — 6. Many parts of the building want light and air in a degree, which renders them unfit for their purposes. — This is remarkably the case, with some of the most important apartments, to wit, the Cham- bers of the Executive & the senate, the Anti-chambers of the senate & representa- tives, the Stairways, &c. Other objections were made, which were surmountable, but those preeeeding were thought not so, without an alteration of the plan. This alteration has in fact been made by Mr. Hallet in the plan drawn by him wherein he has preserved the most valuable ideas of the original, & rendered them susceptible of execution; so that it is considered as Dr. Thornton’s plan, rendered The Old Building. 27 into practicable form. The persons consulted agreed that in this reformed plan, the objections before stated were entirely remedied, and that it is on the whole a work of great merit. But they were unanimously of the opinion that in removing one of the objections, that is to say, the want of light and air to the Executive and senate Chambers, a very capital beauty in the original plan, to wit, The Portico of the Eastern front, was suppressed, and ought to be restored; as the recess proposed in the mid- dle of that front instead of the portico projecting from it would probably have an extreme ill effect. They supposed that by advancing the executive Chamber with the two rooms on its flanks, into a line with the Eastern front or a little projecting or receding from it, the portico might be re-established, and a valuable passage be gained in the Centre of the edifice, lighted from above, and serving as a common dis- engagement to the four capital apartments, and that nothing would be sacrificed by this, but an unimportant proportion of light and air to the senate & representa- tives’ rooms, otherwise abundantly lighted & aired. The arrangement of the windows in front and different levels was disapproved, and a reformation of that circumstance was thought desirable, tho not essential. It was further their opinion that the reformed plan would not cost more than half what the original one would. — I need not repeat to you the opinions of Colo. Williams, an undertaker also produced by Doctr. Thornton who on seeing the plans & hearing the objections proposed, thought some of them removable, others not so, and on the whole that the reformed plan was the best. This passed in your presence and with a declaration at the same time from Colo. Williams that he wished no step to be laid on opinions so suddenly given. But he called on me the day after, told me he had considered and conferred with Doctor Thornton on the objections and thought all of them could be removed but the want of light and air in some cases. He gave me general ideas of the ways in which he would remove the other objec- tions, but his method of spanning the intercolonnations with secret arches of brick, and supporting the floor by an interlocked fraiming appeared to me totally inade- quate; that of unmasking the windows by lowering the galleries was only substitut- ing one deformity for another, and a conjuctural expression how head room might be gained in the stairways, shewed he had not studied them. — I have employed Mr. Carstairs to calculate the cost of the whole masonry of the building according to the Philadelphia prices, because the cost of the Walls of a building furnishes always a tolerable conjecture of the cost of the whole, and because I thought that a statement in detail, of the Philadelphia prices of materials and work, might be of some value to the Commissioners. I have the honor to be, &c. , Th. Jefferson. To the President of the U. States. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 193: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] THE PRESIDENT TO THE COMMISSIONERS. Philadelphia July 25tli 1793 Gentlemen: I enclose for your information, the copy of a letter from the Secretary of State to me, on the subject of the objections made to Doct. Thorntons plan of a capitol. — By this Letter you will see that after a candid discussion it was found that the objections stated, were considered as valid, by both the persons chosen by Doctr. Thornton as practical Architects and competent Judges of things of this kind. And one of them (Mr. Carstairs) who appeared to have studied the matter with most attention, pronounced them irremediable without an alteration of some parts of the plan. — The other (Col 0 . Williams) proposed certain methods of obviating some 28 Documentary History of the Capitol. of the objections, but in what manner you will see, by the enclosed letter. The plan produced by Mr. Hallet, altho’ preserving the original ideas of Doct. Thornton, and such as might upon the whole be considered as his plan, was free from those objections, and was pronounced by the Gentlemen on the part of Doctr. Thornton, as the one which they, as practical Architects, would chuse to execute. Besides which, you will see that, in the opinion of the Gentlemen, the plan executed accord- ing to Mr. Ballet’s ideas would not cost more than one half of what it would if executed according to Doctor Thornton’s. After these opinions, there could remain no hesitation how to decide; and Mr. Hoben was accordingly informed that the foundation would be begun Upon the plan exhibited by Mr. Hallet, leaving the recess in the East front open for further consideration. — If this meets your ideas, the work of that building will progress as fast as circumstances will permit. It seems to be the wish that the Portico of the East front, •which was in Doctor Thornton’s original plan, should be preserved in this of Mr. Hallet’s. The recess which Mr. Hallet proposes in that front, strikes every one who has viewed the plan, unpleasantly, as the space between the two wings or projections, is too contracted to give it the noble appearance of the buildings of which it is an imitation; and it has been intimated that the reason of his proposing the recess instead of a portico, is to make it in one essential feature different from Doct. Thornton’s plan. — But whether the portico or the recess should be finally concluded upon, will make no difference in Ihe commencement of the foundations of the building, except in that particular part — and Mr. Hallet is directed to make such sketches of the Portico, before the work will be affected by it, as will show the advantage or disadvantage thereof. — The ostensible objection of Mr. Hallet to the adoption of Doctr. Thornton’s East front is principally the depreciation of light and air, in a degree to the apartments designed for the Senate & Representatives. With very great regard, I am, Gent-., Your most Obt. Servt., Go. Washington. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 191: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] THE SECRETARY OF STATE TO TPIE COMMISSIONERS. Philadelphia Aug 1 . 15th 1793 Gentlemen, By this day’s post I have the honour to return the drawings of the Capitol, which bad been left, here in order to have an estimate made; I send also that estimate together witb the rates of the different work, as made by a skilful work- man here, the sum total it is supposed will enable you to form some idea of the whole cost of your building, as there is a tolerably well known proportion between the cost of the Walls of a building and its whole cost; and the rates will serve as information perhaps in contracts which you may have to make hereafter. I have the honor to be with great respect, Gentlemen, Y’our most Obt. & most Hum. Servt., Th. Jefferson. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 1, 192: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] THE PRESIDENT TO THE COMMISSIONERS. Philadelphia 29th Augt. 1793 Gentlemen, I enclose you an estimate of the cost of the Capitol for the Federal City, upon Mr. Hallet’s plan, calculated in the Philada. prices by Mr. Carstairs, one Rep. 646 — 58-: a ELEVATION. HALLET’S MODIFICATION OF THORNTON’S DESIGN. The Old Building. 29 of the Architects brought forward by Doct Thornton on the late occasion of discuss- ing the objections offered to his plan. Although it may not be proper to rely entirely upon this estimate, yet it will prob- ably be found a very useful document in getting on with the work. * * * With very great regard I am Gentl., Your most Obt. Servt., Go. Washington. [Mss.: Proceedings of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds, v. 1, 197: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] At a meeting of the Commissioners at George Town on the twenty second Day of September 1793 and continued to the 25th of same month, Present Thomas Johnson, David Stuart & Danl. Carroll Esquires The following orders and regulations made. 23d Septr 1793. The Commrs. direct that Mr. James Hoban take on himself the general superin- tendance of the Capitol and that the work thereof be conducted agreeable to the orders and directions which may be given from time to time concerning the same. The Commrs. resolve that the inner part of the walls of the President’s House from their present height, and the inner part of the Avails of the Capitol from the water table be made of sound strong bricks, and request Mr. Hoban to provide with that view, so that there may be no stop or delay for AA'ant of such bricks. The facing of the walls of these buildings are to be made of free stone and the necessary pro- vision is to be made in Time for that purpose. [Inscription on the silver plate deposited in the corner stone of the original Capitol, Sept. 18, 1793. (From “Celebration of the One Hundredth Anniversary of the Laying of the Corner Stone of the Capitol of the United States,” by General Duncan S. Walker, page 123. — Public document: 1896.)] This southeast corner stone of the Capitol of the United States of America, in the city of Washington, was laid on the 18th day of September, 1793, in the thirteenth year of American Independence, in the first year of the second term of the Presi- dency of George Washington, whose virtues in the civil administration of his country have been as conspicuous and beneficial as his military valor and prudence have been useful in establishing her liberties, and in the year of Masonry 5793, by the Presi- dent of the United States, in concert with the Grand Lodge of Maryland, several lodges under its jurisdiction, and Lodge No. 22, from Alexandria, Va. ; Thomas Johnson, David Steuart, and Daniel Carroll, Commissioners; Joseph Clark, Right Worshipful Grand Master pro tempore; James Hoban and Stephen Hallette, archi- tects; Collin Williamson, master mason. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 2, 74: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] * . City of Washington 19th May 1794 Sir, We have to inform you that after a deliberation of some months on the best mode of carrying on the work at the Capitol, we have closed with Dermott Roe’s propositions of doing it by the piece. In consequence of this determination Mr. Hoban was instructed to set him to work. As it is of the first importance that this work should be faithfully executed, we have to desire you will superintend it, or employ some one for that purpose, in whom you can place full Confidence. We are, &c\, Dn. Stuart, a , Danl. Carroll. } ( 11,111 ,s ' Collin Williamson. 30 Documentary History of the Capitol. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 2, 75: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] 7 June 1794 Sir, We are desirous of seeing the progress you have made in your drafts of the Capitol. As our stay here will be short, we request your attendance for that purpose as soon as possible. We are, &c., Dd. Stuart, Danl. Carroll. Mr. Hallet. | Comrs. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 2, 76: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department,] 7th June, 1794. Sir: We desire you to inform the Masons who sent in a Memorial to us respecting the work at the Capitol, that while we are happy at all times to receive any informa- tion from those engaged in the ppblic Service and their terms of work, we can never countenance a riotous and disorderly conduct. We are well informed that there are Several of those who were at work at the Capitol who have issued threats against Mr. IJoban and Dermott Roe, and that the latter has been for his own safety compelled to take out Warrants against them. Such it would be improper to employ, without their Satisfying the above persons of their peaceable conduct in future. In the Memorial presented to us, an offer is made for working at 4/6 per perch having all Materials conveniently placed for them. We empower you to close with this proposition, and engage such of them as are not included in the above description without their compliance with the abovementioned terms. We are, &c., Dd. Stuart, Danl. Carroll, Mr. Collin Williamson. | Comrs. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 2, 78: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Washington June 24tli 1794 Sir, We entered on the foundation of the Capitol last year under an expectation that we should have been soon furnished with a complete plan for that Building, and have since made pretty strong Instances to you on that head. You must be sensible of the propriety of our being in possession of your Ideas fully so that your Successor, if any, and ours, for it is certain there will soon be two such, may pursue them. It is therefore our request that you will lay before us in our Office, all your Drafts and papers concerning the Capitol, and that you will give us a certain assur- ance by what time you will be able to give us the plan and a list of Materials complete. You will be pleased to recollect the conversation we had yesterday, after laying out the lines for the Walls of any parts of the Capitol we desire that the execution may rest with Mr. Williamson, or the person who under our authority may be appointed for that purpose, with whom you are to hold intercourse instead of giving Orders to particular Masons, for we wish your time not to be taken up in overseeing the Masons, or occasion given for Misunderstandings or Excuses. We have determined to carry the Walls for the present only to the level of the highest part — they may remain so ’till the effect of our addition of one foot may be The Old Building. 31 better ascertained. And as to the two cellars proposed on the East side we think it may be well to sink the Walls but not to dig out the Area. We are, &c., Mr. Hallet. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 2, 80: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Sib, We very much wished to be informed of the Quantity of Masonry done at the Capitol in the last year and the present on Time Wages — the first requisition was not clearly understood, and therefore your first return blended what was done on Time Wages and what was done on piece Work. Your second return on the means you have, makes the Quantity of Masonry done on Time Wages only 2,425 perches. On reviewing our Accounts of payments to Masons for that Service and adding the expence of tenders, we cannot but believe and hope that more work is done than estimated, and request you will revise the principles you laid down and the calcula- tions you made, and let us know the result. We are, Sir, &c., Tn Johnson, [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 2 83: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Sib, We are Sorry to perceive from late conversations and circumstances that your Ideas are not settled as to the line within which you are to Act. * * * In general nothing has gone from us by which we intended or we believe you could infer that you had the chief direction of executing the work of the Capitol or that you or anybody else were to introduce into that building any departures from Doc 1 Thorntons’s Plan without the President’s or Commissioners’ approbation. Mr. Hoban was employed here before our acquaintance began with you more especially as chief over the President’s house, of which he was fortunate enough to produce a plan which meet with general we may almost say universal approbation and to extend his Superintendence to any other public buildings we might require. We claimed his Services as Superior at the Capitol, and this was explained so fully last fall on the Spot, with the addition that you were to communicate with him and be governed by his directions, that we flattered ourselves the line of each was perfectly understood. It is painful to have these things to reiterate and we do request that you will signify by letter your understanding of and agreement to this line for we cannot intrust the same piece of business to the direction of two heads capable of pursuing different Th. Johnson, Dd. Stuaet, Danl. Cabboll, Washington June 25 1794 Mr. Hallet. Dd. Stuaet, Danl. Cabboll. Commissionees Office 26th June 1794 ' Wills. We shall soon separate and therefore your speedy answer will oblige Sir, yr. mo. obed. Servts., Mr. Hallet. 32 Documentary History of the Capitol. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 2, 88: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Commissioners Office 27 June 1794 Evening Sir, We wish and intend to Separate in the morning: We have no answer to our letter of yesterday to you and it is very desirable that we should know your Mind on it before tve part. We are, Sir, &c., Th. Johnson, -j Dd. Stuart, l Comrs. Danl. Carroll. J Mr. Hallet. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 2, 91: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Washington 28tli June , 1794 Sir, Mr. Stephen Hallet who has been employed by us for some time past has lately taken up such delicacy that he will not hold an intercourse with, or Submit to the Superiority of Mr. Hoban, the Principal. On explanation we have parted, he was on a liberal appointment but refuses to give up the Plans and Essays of Plans as you’ll see by the inclosed. We wish you to order a Replevin in Prince Georges County Court Thomas Johnson Jr. will be Security on the Replevin Bond or fill up a Blank Bond with the names of those wdio will be sufficient — from Hallet’s disposi- tion, as disclosed in this transaction we expect he will run out all process before he’ll give up the papers. We are, Sir, &c. Th. Johnson, Dd. Stuart, Danl. Carroll, Philip B. Key, Esq. Comrs. [Mss. : Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of 'Washington and District of Columbia, v. 2, 123: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] City of Washington Octr. 27th 1794 Sir, * * * With respect to the Stone Carvers there is such a difference both in execution and taste, that it may be necessary to leave this to the chance of your pro- curing them to come over on their own risk with respect to the price of their Services, but on a certainty of it’s being very liberal according to their respective merits — from 8 to 6 at least of such persons will be necessary; we mean Such as would be qualified to take each of them in charge a number of Stone Carvers & Cutters — some of them should be capable of cutting Capitals of the higher order. * * * We are, &c., Danl. Carroll, William Thornton. James Greenleaf, Esqr. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 2, 150: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] City of Washington December 2d 1794 Sir, We agree with you that it will be best to discharge the workmen from the Capitol, except such as you may employ in digging the Water Channell, which get done on the best terms you can. The Old Building. 33 It is necessary also to have the well walled up. We wish also that no more Stone may be carried to the Capitol than is necessary for the well, but we do not wish the water Channell to be walled at present. Your obedt. Servts., Danl. Carroll, Gusts. Scott, William Thornton. Collin Williamson. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, y. 2, 178: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Washington, January 29th, 1795. Sir, The Board have for some time contemplated a statement of the affairs of the City, to be laid before you; which has been hitherto delayed by the difficulty of col- lecting the several Documents necessary to accompany it; and which even yet are very far from being perfect. * * * The Paper marked B will give you some Idea of the expenditure already made on the Capitol. What ultimately it may cost we cannot at present exactly calculate. But we beg leave to Suggest the Idea whether it would not be prudent in the present State of our funds to forego carrying on more of that building than the immediate accommodation of Congress may require. It is conceived that this may be done without at all affecting the completion of the whole at a future day on the Plan approved. The Conduct of Mr. Hallet, whose capricious and obstinate refusal to deliver up such Sections of the Capitol as were Wanting obliged the late Commis- sioners to discharge him, and occasioned some difficulties in this business. The Board on taking a review of the Consequences arising from being themselves undertakers in a great variety of Subjects; came to a Resolution to contract as far as possible at fixed rates for all Materials & work; always referring the power of finally deciding between the public & tire Contractor on the Sufficiency of the Materials found or work done. To create competition, and to prevent all combination or censure, they have also advertised their wants with occasional promises of Advances. Hitherto the Measure has been attended with Success. * * * Good hard well burnt Bricks not less than 500,000 nor more than 1 Mil- lion to be delivered in the Capitol yard have been contracted for at 36 S. per thou- sand; tho’ the Selling price all last Season in the City and Geo. Town has been and still is from 8 to 10 Dollars per thousand. * * * The cutting and laying the free stone at the Capitol has been contracted for on very reasonable terms with a Mr. Dobson from England; who has given very good security for his performance and has commenced his operations. We have before us offers for laying Bricks and foundation Stone; and we are about contracting for Lime, the only material of consequence not contracted for to carry on the operations of the next Season. About 100 Labourers are engaged for the year at 60 Dollars ' each, their Masters clothing them; and indeed every measure is taken to prepare for pushing forward the public buildings the next Season, to as great an extent as our finances will admit. * * * The present Circumstances of our Affairs evince too plainly how desirable a Loan would be. Spirited exertion in the public buildings, which cannot be made without H. Rep. 640 3 34 Documentary History of the Capitol. money whilst it increased the public confidence would give a great additional value to the public property yet left. * * Should any unexpected Incidents prevent the public buildings from being prepared in Time for the reception of Congress, how deep would be your, & our regret. Such an Event might ultimately shake the Dignity, Honor & Peace of the Union. * * * We have the honor to be with the utmost respect Sir, Your Obedt. Servts., Daniel Carroll, Gusts. Scott. William Thornton. I‘. S. * * * The President of the U. S. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 2, 213: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] City of Washington March 20th 1795 Sir, * * * Dr. Thornton some time since communicated to the Board his Ideas on raising the foundation of the Capitol. We then were and still are of the opinion that every measure which has a tendency to delay the finishing of the Capitol ought to be received with great caution. The foundation of that building, already 10 feet deep and as many thick on an average of the whole, has cost upwards of sixty thou- sand Dollars. A work of this vast magnitude will require great exertions to carry it through by the time expected; especially in a Country where Money will not always command Labor. The reasoning about the removal of the earth; and the Calculations of the comparative Cost of removing the Earth and raising the founda- tion had not much weight with us; because the removal of the Earth not being im- mediately necessary, we conceived that the quantity of bricks wanted for public use, together with those wanted by Individuals would daily lessen that Inconvenience. Those reasons with many others not necessary to be detailed induced us to decline writing to the President; nor should we mention it now, had not Dr. Thornton informed us that he lately had conversation with the President upon the subject. It becomes however high time to know the President’s final decision on the subject and also whether the Capitol is, or is not to have a Basement Story. The Nature of the Materials to be collected depend on the decision, and we are embarassed very much whilst things remain in their present State of uncertainty. We wish Dr. Thornton to lay before the President everything relating to the present State of that building; and that we may be favored with the President’s determination. The fixed determination of the Board is to push forward the Capitol during the present Season beyond all other objects; but until the next Story is determined on, ’tis im- possible to provide the Materials. 7r We beg the favor of you to communicate this Letter to Dr. Thornton. We have the honor to be with Sentiments of the highest respect, Sir, yr mo obed servts, Danl. Carroll. Gusts. Scott. Edmp. Randolph, 0 Esqr., Secy of State. The Old Building. 35 [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 2, 218: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] City of Washington March 80 1795. Dr Sir, *, * * We have Said very little to the Secretary on the Subject of the Capitol, but we are of opinion any change in the present plan of the Capitol would be attended with Consequences very fatal to the affairs of the City. Danl. Carroll, Gusts. Scott. Dr. Thornton. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 2, 242: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] City of Washington May 15th 1795 Sir, * * * We are happy in having it in our power to inform you that the Capitol progresses rapidly and that we have at present a good prospect of a Plentiful supply of all the Materials necessary for the present Season at least. * * * We have the Honor to be, with the greatest respect, Sir, &c., Gusts. Scott, William Thornton. The President of the United States. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 3, 13: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] City of Washington, June 86, 1795. Sir: * * * g ome disagreement among the Contractors for laying the founda- tion Stone at the Capitol and their workmen have led to an examination of the whole of the work done, which has by no means turned out to our satisfaction. Mr. Hoban has attended from Day to Day, and often twice and three times a Day, and one or other of the Board has frequently visited them; yet bad work has been put into the Walls; and in some parts prudence requires they should be taken down. The Contractors being the same who have worked on the Capitol from the first beginning of the building, and being under the immediate Inspection of Mr. Hoban, no Suspicion was entertained of any foul play, the outside Walls of the North wing are good which will amply employ the free stone Setters, So that no delay whatever will ensue: And these people having giving ample Security we hope ultimately the public will not be losers. We have no doubt but that this matter w r ill be exaggerated therefore w 7 e have thought it proper to State the thing as it really is. The Contractors are all discharged and a better Set will, we expect be engaged in a few Days, and it is our Determina- tion to have a person employed to attend constantly at the Walls so as to see every Course of Stone or brick as it is laid on. Mr. Hoban and Mr. Blagden have been three Days engaged in examining the whole of the Walls and they report that by taking down about one foot of the Walls Suggested and laying large bond Stone the Walls will be made perfectly Secure and sufficient, and upon the North Wing the Stone Setters will begin next Week to lay the Free stone. We have the Honor to be with great respect Sir, Your mo. obd. Servts., Gusts. Scott, William Thornton. Edmd. Randolph, Secy of State. 3(3 Documented y History of the Capitol. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 3, 17: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] City of W ashington, July 13, 1795. Sir, Your favor of the 6th Inst, with the Inclosures have been received, and we beg leave through you to assure the President that every attention in our power has been paid to the Capitol. Had we attended at the building every day since its com- mencement it is possible and even probable the scene of Villainy carrying on might have escaped detection: but these men particularly C. McD. Roe having all their property at Stake, being well recommended having long been in public Trust here without complaint; led to a belief that they were incapable of a cool premeditated and deliberate act of Villainy which in its Consequences might have occasioned the Death of thousands. The Board for Months past having had no more than two Members with often a great press of business, which kept them constantly employed in the Office at least half their time, have certainly not been able to visit the Capitol so often as Subsequent Events have proved to be necessary. Those not acquainted with the Motley Set we found here, and who from necessity have too many of them been still continued in public Employment, can form no adequate Idea of the irk- some Scenes we are too frequently compelled to engage in. * * * This Day the Workmen have commenced setting the free stone; and we know of nothing which will stop the building except it be the Want of Money. * * * We have yet heard nothing of Mr. White. If ever the Affairs of the City required the united Exertions of a full Board this appears to be the Crisis. We are with the highest respect, Yr. &c., Gusts. Scott. William Thornton. Edwd. Randolph, Esqr. , Sec’y of State. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 3, 41: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] City of Washington 37th September 1795 Sir: * * * We see with equal indignation and grief the hour approaching fast when all our Operations must cease for want of a few thousand Dollars, this too when every material is collected and the season is most favorable for the rapid pro- gression of the works. We are Daily in Session exerting our best endeavors, tho’ hitherto in vain, to form some probable Scheme to raise thirty or forty thousand Dollars to continue the Operations on the public buildings till the middle of Decem- ber. The various expedients Have been Discussed, nothing bearing even the Appear- ance of efficiency has occurred. Should our future Deliberations be more successful One of the Board will undoubtedly wait on you to receive your Assent before the final Adoption of any measure. * * * With sentiments of Perfect respect, We are sir, Your most Obed. Servts., Gusts. Scott, William Thornton, Alex. White. The President of the United States. [Mss.: Letters of the Presidents of the United States, p. 09: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Philada. 9th Novembr, 1795. Gentlemen, Your Letter of the 31st. ulto by Mr. Hatfield has been received. I have since seen Mr. Hoban, & have had a good deal of conversation with both of them, in the presence of each other, with the plans before us. The Old Building. 61 From the explanation of the former, it would seem as if he had not been perfectly understood: — or in other words — that now he means no change in the interior of the building, of the least importance; nor any elsewhere, that will occasion delay, or add to the expense — but the contrary: whilst the exterior will, in his opinion, assume a better appearance, & the portico be found more convenient than on the present plan. As far as I understand the matter, the difference lies simply in discarding the basement, & adding an attic Story, if the latter shall be found necessary; but this (the attic) he thinks maybe dispensed with, as sufficient elevation may be obtained, in the manner he has explained it, without — and to add a dome over the open or circular area or lobby, which in my judgement is a most desirable thing, & what I always expected was part of the original design, until otherwise informed in my late visit to the City, if strength can be given to it & sufficient light obtained. However proper it may have been in you, to refer the decision of the objection, of Mr. Hatfield to the Executive 1 shall give no final opinion thereon. 1. Because I have not Sufficient knowledge of the subject, to judge with precision. 2. because the means of acquiring it, are not within my reach. — 3. if they were, pressed as I am with other matters, particularly at the eve of an approaching, per- haps an interesting session of Congress, I could not avail myself of them: — but above all, because I have not the precise knowledge of the characters you have to deal with — the knowledge of all the facts you have before you — nor perhaps the same view you can take of the consequences of a decision for or against Mr. Hatfield’s proposed alterations, or of his abilities to carry them into execution if adopted. I have told him in decise terms, however, that if the plan on which you have been proceeding, is not capitally defective, 1 cannot (after such changes, delays, and expenses as have been encountered already) consent to a departure from it, if either of these consequences is to be involved : — but that if he can Satisfy you of the contrary, in these points, — I should have no objection, as he conceives his character as an architect is in some measure at Stake — and in short, as the present plan is nobody’s, but a compound of everybody’s, to the proposed change; provided these things, as I have just observed, can be ascertained to your entire Satisfaction. I added further, as a matter of material moment, the short term for which he was engaged, & what might be the consequence of his quitting the building at the end thereof, — or com- pelling fresh — perhaps exorbitant terms, if a new agreement was to be made. To this he replied, that he would not only promise, but bind himself, to Stick by the building until it was finished. — On the spot — at the seat of information — with a view of the materials on hand — the facility of obtaining others — with a better knowledge of the only characters on whom you can rely for carrying on the buildings, than I possess; — with other details unknown to me, you can decide with more safety than I am enabled to do, on the measures proper to be pursued under the embarrassment which has arisen from this diversity of opinion. — That decision, be what it may, will be agreeable to Gentlemen, Your Ob 1 Serv‘. The Commissioners op the City op Washington. Go. Washington. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public, Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 3, 56: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Commissioners Office 18th November 1795. Sir, * * * The principal object of deliberation has been the very important and delicate subject of the proposed change in the plan of the Capitol, the result you will see from the enclosed copies; and in some measure the ground on which the 88 Documentary History of the Capitol. resolution is founded, but besides the assurances given by Doctor Thornton in his let- ter both Mr. Hoban anil Doctor Thornton asserted that the plan purposed by Mr. Had- field could not be executed so as to secure stability to the building. On this point the board do not think it necessary to give a decided opinion, tho’ the opinions of those Gentlemen had great weight in their determination; And it was not on the other side proved to their satisfaction that the plan which has been proceeded on is capitally defective, neither were the estimates of the expences Stated to them with such precision, as to give preponderancy in their judgment to either plan. Mr. Scott having informed the President of the event of his mission the board conceive it unnecessary to add anything on that subject. Mr. White, it is expected, will pro- ceed to Philadelphia agreeably to the proposition of the Board approved by the President when last in the City. We are, Sir, with sentiments of the highest respect, Your Obt.. Servts., Gusts. Scott, • William: Thornton, Alex. White. To the President of the United States. [American State Papers, Class X, Mise., v. I, 133. No. 67. 4th Congress, 1st session. District of Columbia. Communicated to Congress, January 8, 1796.] United States, January 8, 1796. Gentlemen of the Senate and of the House of Representatives: I transmit to you a memorial of the commissioners appointed by virtue of an act entitled “ An act for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of the Govern- ment of the United States,” on the subject of the public buildings under their direction. Since locating a district for the permanent seat of the Government of the United States, as heretofore announced to both Houses of Congress, I have accepted the grants of money and of land stated in the memorial of the commissioners. I have directed the buildings therein mentioned to be commenced on plans which I deemed consistent with the liberality of the grants, and proper for the purposes intended. I have not been inattentive to this important business intrusted by the Legislature to my care. I have viewed the resources placed in my hands, and observed the manner in which they have been applied; the progress is pretty fully detailed in the memorial from the commissioners; and one of them attends, to give further infor- mation, if required. In a case new and arduous, like the present, difficulties might naturally be expected; some have occurred; but they are, in a great degree, sur- mounted; and I have no doubt, if the remaining resources are properly cherished, so as to prevent the loss of piroperty by hasty and numerous sales, that all the build- ings required for the accommodation of the Government of the United States may be completed in season, without aid from the Federal Treasury. The subject is, therefore, recommended to the consideration of Congress, and the result will deter- mine the measures which I shall cause to be pursued with respect to the property remaining unsold. Geo. Washington. To the Honorable the Congress of the United States of America: The memorial of the Com- missioners appointed by the President of the United States, by virtue of an act entitled “ An act for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of Government of the United States,” respectfully showeth: That the President of the United States, by virtue of the act above mentioned, appointed three commissioners for the purposes declared in the said act, and in an The Old Building. 39 act to amend the same, passed at Philadelphia, in the year 1791, who, under his direction, did cause to be surveyed, and, by proper metes and bounds defined and limited, a district of territory ten miles square, on both sides of the Potomac river, including the towns of Alexandria, in Virginia, and Georgetown, in Maryland, for the permanent seat of the Government of the United States. That the proprietors of all the lands within the following bounds, that is to say: * * * have con- veyed the same to trustees for a federal city, to be laid out with such streets, squares, parcels, and lots as the President of the United States should approve; the streets and squares to be the property of the United States solely, and the lots to be equally divided between the grantors and the United States. That the State of Virginia has paid one hundred and twenty thousand dollars, which had been previously offered by an act of the Legislature, on condition that Congress would establish the perma- nent seat of Government on the banks of the Potomac, to be applied, under the direction of the President of the United States, towards erecting the necessary build- ings for the Federal Government ; and that the State of Maryland hath paid seventy- two thousand dollars for the same purpose. That the commissioners, in order to secure proper materials for the public buildings, directed by the act above mentioned, at reasonable rates, and to facilitate the carriage thereof, proceeded to purchase quarries of freestone, to build wharves and bridges, and to open such roads and canals as were deemed necessary for these purposes; which having accomplished, they com- menced the building of the Capitol and the President’s house, and have made consid- erable progress therein. The commissioners, considering that an increase of houses would induce settlers in the city, and thereby contribute much to the accommodation of Congress and the advancement of trade and manufactures, did, in the month of December, 1793, enter into a contract with two gentlemen for the sale of six thousand lots, at the low rate of eighty dollars per lot, payable in seven equal annual instal- ments; the purchasers obliging themselves to erect one hundred and forty convenient brick dwelling-houses, each covering one thousand two hundred square feet, before the year 1800; and engaging further, that all sales made by them previous to the year 1796 should be on.condition that the purchasers should erect one such house for every three lots purchased. The commissioners have, from time to time, sold lots in small numbers, or singly, to various persons, to the amount of ninety-five thousand six hundred and fifty-two dollars, and there still remain unsold about four thousand seven hundred lotfi; which, valued at the average price of those sold as last above mentioned, are worth near one million and a half of dollars. With these resources in their hands, your memorialists entertain no doubt of completing such buildings as will be absolutely necessary for the reception of Congress before the time appointed for their removal to the permanent seat of Government; but as the punctual compliance with the contracts of individuals cannot be relied on with that certainty which is necessary to the carrying on of public works to advantage, and as the bringing into market so large a portion of the city property as would raise money sufficient for that purpose would greatly depreciate its value, your memorialists conceive that the loan of a sum of money, secured on the city property, would be highly advantageous, as it would enable them to proceed with more celerity in completing the public buildings than a dependence on the collection of debts and sale of property will admit. The rapid progress of the buildings would, in itself, be an encouragement to private improvements, and have an immediate tendency to enhance the price of lots; but could the lots be generally retained until the seat of Government shall be removed, they will rise so far beyond their present value, that not only all sums now borrowed on that foundation may be repaid, but much property reserved for the disposal of the United States; yet, as the laws of Maryland, which are still in force in the federal district, do not permit the receiving of more than an an interest of six per centum pier annum, which, on this occasion, it will probably be necessary to exceed, and as money-lenders in foreign 40 Documentary History of the Capitol. countries at least may be unacquainted with the value of the security offered, your memorialists beg leave to submit to the consideration of your honorable body the propriety of giving your sanction to a loan on the principle above stated, so far as to guaranty the payment of such sums as may be deemed adequate to the purpose of erecting the federal buildings, or to such an amount as Congress may be satisfied is clearly within the value of the property pledged, if it shall be judged inexpedient either to advance money, or at this time to subject the revenues of the United States to the eventual payment of moneys in future for the above mentioned purposes, and to authorize the payment of such interest as the President of the United States may judge reasonable. Should Congress adopt the proposed measure, your memorialists have no hesitation in expressing their confidence that not only all the buildings required by the acts aforesaid will be erected in a convenient and elegant style, and in due time, and (what is, perhaps, unparalleled among nations) at private expense, but that private buildings will progress in such a degree as to afford sufficient accommodation for Congress and all their attendants, and render their situa- tion perfectly agreeable. Your memorialists, in contemplating a measure which to them appears mutually advantageous to the city and to the United States, have con- sidered what objections, if any, could be raised against it; they discover none; they have heard none suggested ; and they cannot believe that Congress will refuse their aid to render valuable property granted by individuals for public purposes on the faith of Government, pledged by repeated acts of the Legislature, more especially when, by giving that aid, no expense will be incurred ; but, on the contrary, much property will be saved to the United States. Your memorialists, therefore, pray your honorable body to pass an act, authorizing the President of the United States to borrow such sums as on consideration of the premises shall appear reasonable, to be secured on the lots ceded for the use of the federal city (now called the city of Washington) as above stated, at such rate of interest as he may judge expedient, and payable at such time or times as he may judge proper after the expiration of the year 1800; and to guaranty to the money-lenders that, in case the property so pledged shall prove inadequate to the purpose of re-payment, the United States will make good the deficiency. Gustavos Scott, William Thornton, Alex. White. [American State Papers, Class X, Misc., v. 1, 133. No. 70. 4th Congress, 1st session. City of Wash- ington. Communicated to the House of Representatives, January 25, 1796.] Mr. Jeremiah Smith, from the committee to whom was referred the message from the President of the United States, of the 8th of January instant, « enclosing a memorial of the commissioners appointed by virtue of the “act for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of Government of the United States,” made the following report: That, having carefully perused the memorial and documents furnished by the com- missioners, and having been attended by one of them in person, as the result of their inquiries, they beg leave to state for the consideration of the House: That considerable progress has been made towards fulfilling the object of the afore-mentioned act; the difficulties incidental to an undertaking of this nature are chiefly surmounted. Though much remains to be done, yet almost every branch of the business has been commenced, and many of the materials necessary for erecting the buildings «See No. 67. The Old Building. 41 are provided. The house for the accommodation of the President is in considerable forwardness, and the foundation of the Capitol is laid, and the walls begun; wharves and bridges have also been built, and the necessary roads opened. The funds for defraying the expense of procuring the lands and erecting the build- ings necessary for the accommodation of Congress, of the President, and for the public offices, are the lands ceded to the commissioners as stated in the memorial, together with one hundred and twenty thousand dollars granted by the State of Virginia, and seventy-two thousand dollars by the State of Maryland. It is the opinion of the committee that these funds, if properly managed, are fully adequate to the completing of all the buildings required for the accommodation of the Govern- ment, in season, without any aid from the Treasury of the United States. The commissioners, soon after the laying out of the federal city, sold six thousand of the public lots at eighty dollars each; the purchasers stipulating to build one hundred and forty convenient large brick dwelling houses in the federal city before the year 1800; and the said purchasers further stipulating that all sales made by them previous to 1796 should be on condition that, for every three lots so sold, one such dwelling house should be erected. The committee are informed that, under this condition, upwards of six hundred lots have been sold. The commissioners have, at different periods, sold to sundry persons upwards of two hundred other lots, together with a small number of water lots, for the sum of ninety-six thousand six hundred and fifty-two dollars. The payment of the six thousand lots was to be in seven equal annual instalments. The whole amount of donations and sale of lots is seven hundred and sixty-eight thousand six hundred and fifty-two dollars. The commissioners state to the committee that, of this sum, three hundred and seventy-four thousand two hundred and fifty dollars are already expended. From this statement, which is apprehended to be sufficiently accurate for general purposes, it is easy to form an estimate of the resources remaining in the hands of the commissioners. They are, the money due on contracts for lots sold, being three hundred and ninety-four thousand four hundred and two dollars, payable in the present and four succeeding years, in sums nearly equal, that is, about eighty thou- sand dollars annually; and the lots unsold, being four thousand six hundred and ninety-four, exclusive of the water lots, which occupy three thousand five hundred feet on the water, and extend back from sixty to a hundred feet. It is difficult to say, with any degree of precision, what this property will realize, as much will depend on the time and manner of the sale. It is stated by the commissioners that, estimating these lots according to the aver- age price of the lots sold, exclusive of the great, sale of six thousand in 1793, they are worth one million three hundred and ninety-three thousand seven hundred and ninety, dollars; and that, from the progress made in the public buildings, and from the improvements made and contemplated by private persons, the value of this property must rapidly increase. The commissioners also state that, in their opinion, it would be unsafe to calculate on strict punctuality in the payment of the instalments as they become due from their debtors, though they assure the committee that there will eventually be no loss. The committee have endeavored to state, as correctly as possible, the resources now in the hands of the commissioners, that these may be compared with the objects yet to be accomplished. The principal of these are the completing of the President’s house; the Capitol, at least as far as may be necessary for the accommodation of the two Houses of Congress and their officers; a building for the Judiciary, and another for the several Departments of State, of the Treasury, in all its branches, the Depart- ment of War, and the General Post Office; and such improvements in the streets as may be essentially requisite for public convenience. 42 Documentary History of the Capitol. The committee have availed themselves of the best means of information which the shortness of the time they have had the subject under consideration would allow, to form an estimate of the sums necessary for these several purposes; and, though certainty cannot be expected, and much must after all be left to conjecture, they apprehend they may with safety lie estimated at seven hundred thousand dollars for completing the whole. The committee conceive that it will he necessary to expend, till the year 1800, in completing the several objects enumerated, at least the annual sum of one hundred and forty thousand dollars. The committee have already observed that firm reliance cannot be placed on the punctuality of the debtors of the public. If forty thousand dollars be taken as the sum that shall be annually received from this source, there will be an annual deficiency of the sum of one hundred thousand dollars. If this deficiency be not supplied in some way, it will result that the public build- ings will not be in readiness for the reception of Congress at the time proposed. This deficiency must be supplied by the sale of the lots belonging to the public, if no better mode can be devised. The committee conceive that the real interest, as well as the good faith of the Government, forbid the relinquishment of the objects contemplated by the act establishing the permanent seat of Government. It is stated by the commissioners that this property, if sold under the most unfavorable circumstances, would still be adequate to the purpose; but as this property may justly be considered as that of the public, it would, in the opinion of the committee, be a wanton sacrifice of the public interest, and justified oidy by the most urgent necessity, which the committee conceive does not exist, to raise the money’ wanted in this way. It is, in the opinion of the committee, the duty of Congress, founded on the truest principles of economy, to cherish these funds so as to make them productive of the greatest public utility. But two other modes of accomplishing the objects contemplated have presented themselves to the view of the committee, namely, that of annual advances from the federal Treasury of the requisite sums, and that of raising the same by r a loan. If the state of the public finances would admit of it, the former mode would, in every view, be the most eligible, as it would be the most economical and the most certain. The public would, in that case, derive all the advantage resulting from the rapid increase of the value of property in this infant city, and might reimburse the sums so advanced by sales, at such times, and in such manner, as would be most advantageous. But, conceiving that the existing objects of expenditure will equal, if not exceed, the revenues already’ provided, and that it would not be advisable to impose new taxes for this object, the committee are induced to believe that the only mode which can with propriety be adopted, at this time, for supplying the deficiency stated, will be that of a loan secured on the city’ property, and negotiated under the direction of the President; and that- it would conduce to the real interest of the public that the United States should guaranty the payment of the sums so borrowed, in case the property pledged should prove insufficient. The committee also conceive that it would be proper, in order that Congress may be enabled to judge of the application of the moneys so borrowed, that it be made the duty of the said commissioners, semi-annually, to render to the Secretary of the Treasury a particular account of their receipts and expenditures, and also of the progress and state of the business intrusted to their care, and the state of the funds in their hands; and that the same be laid before Congress by the said Secretary at every session. The committee, therefore, recommend the following resolutions: Resolved, That the President of the United States be authorized to borrow’ such sums as, in his judgment, may’ be necessary (not exceeding the sum of five hundred thousand dollars in the v’hole, and not exceeding two hundred thousand dollars in The Old Building. 43 any one year) for completing the buildings requisite for the accommodation of the Government of the United States at the city of Washington; the said loan to be secured on the public property in the said city, and at such rate of interest as he may judge expedient, and payable at such time or times as lie may judge proper after the year 1800; and that the United States guaranty to the money-lenders that, in case the property so pledged shall prove inadequate, the United States will make good the deficiency. Resolved , That it shall be the duty of the commissioners appointed by virtue of the act entitled “An act for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of the Gov- ernment of the United States,” every six months to render to the Secretary of the Treasury a particular account of the receipts and expenditures of all moneys intrusted to them, and also the progress and state of the business, and the state of the funds in their hands, and, generally, an account of their administration; and that, the said Secretary lay the same before Congress, at the next session after the same shall be received; and that a bill or bills be brought in accordingly. [House proceedings of Feb. 3, 1796: Annals of Congress, 4-1, p. 290.] PERMANENT SEAT OF GOVERNMENT. The House then went into Committee of the Whole on the report of the select committee relative to the Federal city. This report concludes with the following resolutions: * * * The Message of the President on this subject — a particular detail of the progress of the public buildings, state of the funds in the hands of the Commissioners, &c., signed Alexander White; and the act for establishing the temporary and permanent Seat of the Government of the United States, on motion by Mr. J. Smith, were read. Mr. J. Smith, Chairman of the select committee, who had made the report, said, that the reading of the papers had been called for, that the Committee of the Whole might have a full view of the whole subject before them, that they might be able more fully to judge of the propriety of the report. The committee had proposed a Loan on the principle of economy. Mr. Smith and Mr. Swift called for the reading of several other papers — these were accounts of the expenses hitherto incurred, bal- ances due to the Commissioners, &c. The first resolution was then read. Mr. Swift observed, that, he would not propose any thing which should tend to contravene the act for establishing the permanent Seat of the Government of the United States. He was willing that that act should be carrie 1 into execution, but then he was not willing to go to any unnecessary expense to effect the object. He stated some objections to the resolution: he did not think that a Loan was necessary for the purposes of the act. The funds in the hands of the Commission- ers, he said, are sufficient to complete the public buildings in such manner as to accommodate Congress at the period pointed out. He referred to the details of the funds which had been read. Another objection he had to the first resolution, was the discretion vested in the President to institute a Loan at an indefinite rate of interest — another objection to the resolution, in his mind, was the guarantee of the Loan by the United States. He was averse from the Government’s being implicated in this business; he believed it was entirely unprecedented. Adverting to the idea of the lots being enhanced in price at a future day, he very much doubted the accuracy of this. He was rather of opinion that the Government would eventually be obliged to make good the whole Loan. On the whole, he thought it best for the Government to have nothing to do with the business, but to leave the management of it to the Commis- 44 Documentary History of the Capitol. sioners by the aid of the funds in their hands; with economy they will be sufficient; but the more money there is granted, the less will be the economy in expending it. Mr. Murray said, that the gentleman had taken the only ground which he believed could be taken to set aside the report of the committee, and that was that due economy had not been observed in the expenditures already made; he believed he would be puzzled extremely to substantiate this idea to the amount of one shilling. Mr. M. said, that no public money to the amount of one shilling had hitherto been expended on the Federal city; nor is any public money now asked for. The object. of the resolution is simply a Loan — a Loan on terms that individuals would think eligible. Adverting to the objection on account of the interest, he did not suppose with the gentleman that ten, fifteen, or twenty per centum would be neces- sary; he had been informed that it could be procured for eight per centum. Taking a general view of the subject, he remarked, that all that was asked, was as little as could be expected. It is not a grant, a gift; it is simply to guarantee a loan for a public economical purpose. Mr. Gallatin objected to the indefiniteness of the rate of interest. He said it would militate against the loans proposed by the Secretary of the Treasury. He moved that the resolution should be amended so as to express the rate of interest at six per cent. Mr. Brent said he hoped that the motion would not obtain. The sum of 500,000 dol- lars is so inconsiderable compared with the loans contemplated by the Secretary of the Treasury, amounting to six millions; that the rate of interest on Governmental loans could not be supposed to be effected by a rate of eight, ten, or twelve per cent, for the sum mentioned in the report. The security he considered so good, that the money would be immediately obtained, and the reimbursement made with ease at almost any rate of interest. He supposed the economy of the plan was so obvious, that no man who was disposed to comply with the act for establishing the permanent Seat of Government, would oppose it. Mr. B. then adverted to the objections offered by Mr. Swift, and entered into a general statement of the affairs of the city, to show the policy and expediency of adopting the report of the committee. The Speaker here remarked, that the merits of the report Avere not under consid- eration, on which Mr. Brent waived any further observations. Mr. W. Smith stated the difficulties that would result from not restricting the rate of interest. He said it was unprecedented in the practice of the Government; even in the loan for the benevolent purpose of making peace with Algiers, the rate of interest was fixed at five per cent. He adverted to the principle of the report, and said that when the permanent Seat of Government was first agitated, assurances were given that the United States would never be called upon for any pecuniary assist- ance. It has been said that the money is not now asked for; but only the guarantee of a loan; he observed on this, that the Government ought to make the same calcu- lations as it would were the payment inevitable on its part, for the public faith should be pledged to make good any deficiency that may happen. Mr. S. was proceeding, when Mr. Brent rose and said, he would withdraw his opposition to the motion. He was willing that six per cent, should be inserted. Mr. Giles moved that a blank should be left for the rate of interest. Mr. Gallatin consented to vary his motion accordingly. Mr. Harper, adverting to the period when payment of the instalment shall com- mence, observed, that in the year eighteen hundred, the United States would be called upon for the sum of 1,200,000 dollars, on account of the deferred debt, &c. He moved that the term should be left blank. Mr. W. Smith seconded this motion. Mr. J. Smith said, that it was not to be supposed that the LTnited States would be called upon to pay one farthing of the loan. If the measure proposed should be The Old Building. 45 adopted, the property in the Federal City will immediately rise in value; but if it fails, it will paralize the whole business. Mr. Crabb said, he hoped the report would not be altered. No man can seriously suppose that the United States will ever be called upon to reimburse one shilling of this money. The property is now the public property, and every principle of pru- dence and economy forbids that it should now be sold. But if the public faith is supported for fixing the permanent Seat of Government, the property at the period when the instalments become due, when the Government removes to the Federal City, will lie so enhanced in value as to furnish a sum much more than amply suffi- cient for the purpose of reimbursement. The term of repayment was finally left blank. Mr. Swift then moved to strike out the sums of 500,000 and 200, 000, 'before the word dollars, and leave blanks. A motion for the Committee rising prevented any further discussion. They rose, reported progress, and had leave to sit again. [House proceedings of Feb. 4, 1796: Annals of Congress, 4 — 1, p. 293.] PERMANENT SEAT OF GOVERNMENT. The House then went into Committee of the Whole on the report of the select committee relative to the Federal City. The motion for striking out the sums of 500,000 and 200,000, before the word dol- lars, in the first resolution, under consideration. Mr. Macon supported the motion for striking out. He offered some objections to the general scale of expenses. Mr. Findley said he was against striking out. He was on the select committee, and recited the motives which had governed them in the report they had brought forward. The question submitted was not whether what had been done was proper or not, but what was necessary to complete the plan already begun. The committee had thought proper to report the sum of 500,000 dollars in order to draw the atten- tion of the House more particularly to the object for which the money is wanted. Mr. F. thought it was always disgraceful to a Legislative body to make appropria- tions which fall short; the consequence always was further applications. The reso- lution only empowers the President to borrow the sum, but it does not follow that it will be all borrowed or expended. He said the sum might be struck out, and reinserted again, but he saw no good purpose that would be answered by this. Mr. Nicholas was opposed to striking out. He supposed that if a sacrifice of the public property was not determined on, there would be no hesitation in making a liberal provision: a niggardly supply on the other hand would necessarily produce that effect, Mr. Crabb. Mr. Chairman, I flatter myself that the words five hundred thousand will not be struck out on any principle, but more especially on the one suggested by the gentleman from North Carolina. What, sir, is the object meant to be obtained by the memorial on which the resolution now before you is grounded? Is it not a reserve of the public property, under the well-founded expectation of a rise in its value? This will not, cannot be controverted. Then let us examine the proposition for annual loans and annual guarantees, and we shall find the completion of this desirable measure in a great extent defeated, should we adopt that proposition. For, inasmuch as the public confidence will be diminished by this parsimonious mode of legislation that will require annual Legislative aid, as certainly will it operate as a check on the rise of public property. If the present application of the City Com- 46 Documentary History of the Capitol. missioners is fully and completely gratified, public confidence will be fully established; but if left dependent on the passions and prejudices of future Legislatures, I apprehend it will not. The gentleman from Connecticut, with whom this motion for striking out origi- nated, yesterday, more than intimated a waste and extravagant expenditure of the funds that had already been in the possession of the Commissioners. If this is a fact, as the gentleman has made the charge, it becomes a duty in him to designate and point out the particular objects of abuse, and that might lead to a correction of them; but round assertions, unsupported by proof, can have no good effect, and may tend to injure the reputation and interest of your public agents, and at all events, must wound their feelings, perhaps unjustly. For a moment reflect on the nature and origin of these funds, and I am persuaded the Committee will think with me, that expenditures hitherto made by the Commissioners, under the direction of the Presi- dent, is hardly a proper subject for examination by this Committee. For, sir, it is well known that not one cent has yet been expended by the Union for the progress or accomplishment of this great national object. But the funds applied have arisen from donations, or grants of lots by private citizens of Maryland, and by voluntary liberal donations from the States of Virginia and Maryland, accompanied by acts of the granting Legislatures, that required annual accounts of the expenditure. Then, sir, it follows, that the Legislatures that made those grants, are the proper bodies to make this scrutiny. When the United States have made grants, or guaranteed loans to cherish and increase the city funds, and thereby become responsible, then, sir, will that kind of discussion be proper: before that it appears premature. The necessity of this application on the part of the Commissioners is objected to. I will not contend for the necessity. I think none existed. Nor was it policy, unless certain of success. Yet I feel satisfied that it is sound policy in the General Govern- ment to aid and assist the funds by complying with the resolution. Sure, I am, that if the application had not been made, the city property was commensurate to all the public objects required; and no doubts rests on my mind, if the resolution passes, but it will increase the funds far beyond the necessary demands: but I feel it a duty to declare, that I much doubt the sufficiency of the funds, provided this application should, from an ill-timed, illiberal, contracted policy, miscarry. The refusal of this small parental aid would strongly convey the idea and enforce belief, that the Gen- eral Government was not serious, not firmly fixed in their purpose of making the present location the permanent Seat of Congress. Consequently a sudden and dread- ful fall of lots, the value of which depends on public opinion respecting that event. And thus, sir, a sacrifice of the public interest must be the result of such mistaken policy. And, sir, from this loss, one of two evils must follow: that is, we must either have direct recourse to the Federal Treasury to supply this deficiency, or relinquish this momentous object, hitherto so solemnly adopted after the fullest discussion by the General Government. Sir, the first and least of these evils should be cautiously guarded against; but, sir, the second is an evil of that extent and magnitude, that no comprehension, however extensive, can by anticipation arrive at the fatal result; nor no language, however strong, paint it in proper colors, to show fully its baneful effects; such a manifest, indecent, impolitic violation of public faith and private rights, acquired under the sanction of the original law, would shake the Union to the centre, if not burst asunder those political bands that so happily cement and bind this wide extended Union in the governmental compact — the sheet anchor of America, on which all her strength, wealth, and happiness must depend. The motion for striking out 500,000 and 200,000 was carried, there is a blank con- sequently before the word “dollars;” no amendment was made to the second resolution. The Committee rose and reported the two resolutions with the amendments to the first. The Old Building. 47 The amendments were taken into consideration by the House and agreed to. The question then was on the first resolution as amended. The debate was renewed on the general policy and expediency of the measure. Mr. Kitchell was opposed to it. He said the public faith was sufficiently pledged by the act for establishing the permanent Seat of Government. He did not suppose this would be more firmly secured by going into the measure. Adverting to the exigencies of the Government for money, he considered the present as the most improper time to make any grants or loans; besides, he saw no necessity for them. The funds already in the hands of the Commissioners are sufficient to complete the buildings for the accommodation of Congress in season. If money should be wanted at a more favorable time, there was no doubt it would be granted ; but at present he was opposed to doing anything in the matter. Mr. .T. Smith said there was no doubt that Congress had a right to withhold their aid in this business at the present time, or any other: the only question is, whether the measure is expedient or not. The committee had' thought it was on the prin- ciples of economy and sound policy. The first resolution was agreed to, fifty-seven members rising in the affirmative. The second resolution was also adopted. They were then referred to the select committee who brought in the report, to prepare and bring in a bill or bills. The resolutions, as amended, are as follows: * -x- * [House proceedings of February 22, 1796: Annals of Congress, 4-1, p. 356.] LOAN TO THE CITY OF WASHINGTON. It was moved that the unfinished business of Friday be laid aside, to take up the consideration of the bill authorizing a loan for the use of the City of Washington. The resolution being carried by a vote of forty-eight against thirty-four, the House formed itself into a Committee of the Whole, Mr. Muhlenberg in the Chair, and the first section of the bill being read, and also the resolution of the House authorizing the committee to bring in the bill — Mr. Swift wished to know why the committee had deviated from the principles contained in the resolution directing them to bring in the bill. By this bill the buildings in the City of Washington are to be conveyed to the President of the United States, though there were no instructions in the resolution of the House to this effect. Mr. Jeremiah Smith said the lots were conveyed to the President, in order to reim- burse the loan authorized by the Senate, and as a security for the sum to be borrowed by the President, in consequence of the present bill. Mr. Brent said the bill was framed in a mode which the committee thought best calculated to carry into execution the resolution of the House. Mr. Swanwick objected to the bill on the principle, that if the United States were to accept a grant of the lots in the Federal City, they might, if they thought proper, afterwards grant such a sum as they should suppose sufficient for completing the public buildings, out of the general funds; but he was entirely against opening a loan for the special purpose; first, because he thought it degrading to the United States to have it observed in Europe, or elsewhere, that they could not complete the buildings requisite for their own immediate use, without making a loan for the pur- pose; and secondly, because he had no notion of superadding to the public faith any security of lots, as it might prove injurious to the United States to have loans opened in various quarters on different securities, though ultimately bottomed on the same stock, viz: the credit of the United States. On these grounds, lie was for having the bill recommitted, to be new modified. 48 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Nicholas offered his observations upon the bill; but from the firing of cannon, the beating of drums, &c., which took place during his speaking, in honor of the President’s birth day, the reporter could not hear his sentiments sufficiently distinct to attempt an abridgement of them. Mr. S. Smith moved that the fourth section of the bill offering lots as a security of money borrowed, be struck out as altogether unnecessary. Mr. Ckabb said the lots were not offered in aid of the credit of the United States; but as a security to them for the money borrowed under their authority. Mr. Brent said, if this section of the bill was struck out, the object of it would be defeated. The preceding clause provides for the conveying of the lots to the Presi- dent as a security for any sum of money he shall borrow for completing the buildings. And provided the property be not equal to the payment of the money borrowed, the United States guarantee the making good the deficiency. If this clause were struck out, the lenders of money would have no further security, if the buildings were not sufficient to pay. So that, after passing this act, the business would remain in the same state it was in before the House took it up. It has been said, that it would be derogatory to the dignity of the United States to offer these lots as a security, in addition to their own credit; but, that a person should become disreputable by offering too ample a security, was a novel doctrine to him; and that gentleman’s ideas of dignity and his, were so opposite, as not likely to meet. It has been said, that it will be necessary to open a loan for 600,000 dollars on the public account, and he could not see the dishonor of opening a loan for this object more than for that. The form of the act was necessary to secure the repayment of money received by the Commissioners, and it was necessary that the lots should be conveyed to the President as a guarantee for the money borrowed. He was, there- fore, for the bill remaining in its present form. Mr. Swift thought the faith of the United States sufficient for moneylenders, and expressed his disapprobation of the bill in other respects. Mr. Hillhouse said, if it would be in order, he should wish to move that the Committee rise, and that the bill be recommitted in order to have it moulded into a somewhat different form. Mr. Dayton wished, as there was matter perfectly new to him introduced into this bill, that the Committee would rise, that the bill might be recommitted, and formed agreeably to the resolution of that House authorizing it to be brought in. Mr. Jeremiah Smith had the greatest respect for the opinion of the last speaker; but could not see the difference stated by him to exist between this bill and the resolution authorizing the committee to bring it in. This he endeavored to show at considerable length, and observed, that the committee did not conceive themselves confined to the words, but to the spirit of the resolution. Mr. Nicholas justified the form of the bill, as being agreeable to the resolution of the House, and said if the fourth section was struck out, the law would be destroyed altogether. Mr. Sedgwick wished the bill to take a different form. Mr. Madison did not see any necessity for the Committee to rise. He thought the bill conformable to the resolution of the House, and sufficiently simple in itself. Mr. Swift was for having the bill recommitted. He wished to know how far a committee had the power to deviate from a resolution instructing them to bring in a bill. He said there were new principles introduced into this bill which he could not agree to. .» Mr. Gallatin said there was no necessity for recommitting the bill. If any pro- visions of the bill required amendment, the present was the time to amend them. He, therefore, saw no ground for the Committee to rise on that head. Mr. Yarniim said he understood a motion had been yesterday made to strike out the fourth clause of the bill ; but the gentleman who had made the motion not appear- ing in his place, he renewed the motion to strike out that clause. The Old Building. 49 Mr. Murray thought that clause essential. For though he believed the lots worth considerably more than the money proposed to be borrowed, yet more implicit confi- dence would be placed on the security, and it would be a means of accelerating the business, if the sanction of the guarantee of the United States was added to it. Mr. Varnum objected to the United States guaranteeing this loan. He did not know with any certainty what would be the expense of the proposed buildings, or the extent of them. To guarantee this loan, was to guarantee what they knew not; and if they guaranteed it, he believed they would have the money to pay. He was of opinion the whole of the buildings necessary for the use of Government might be built for a less sum than was asked to finish what was already begun. Why should the United States guarantee this loan? Because it would be for the interest of cer- tain individuals. It would be the interest of the United States to sell the whole of the lots and then guarantee a loan. At any rate, before the United States went into the business, they ought to know to what extent they pledged themselves. Mr. Harper wished to suggest some ideas by which the question might be imme- diately taken. The first plan was, that the Commissioners of the Federal City mort- gage the property, and that the United States should give security; another plan was, that the property should be vested in the United States, and assigned to the President. He thought the latter plan the best, but it would be extremely proper that the sense of the Committee should be expressed. If the motion, then, for the Committee to rise could be withdrawn he would move to strike out certain words, to introduce the proposed amendment. Mr. Giles wished the subject to go before the committee again; but, he said it was necessary they should have instructions upon which to act, as they could not be guided by a debate of that House only. Several members calling for a rising of the Committee, it rose, and asked leave to sit again. [House proceedings of Feb. 23, 1796: Annals of Congress, 4 — 1, p. 358.] LOAN FOR THE CITY OF WASHINGTON. The House having resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole, on the bill for authorizing a loan for the use of the City of Washington. Mr. Williams proposed an amendment, which, after a few observations from Mr. Murray and Mr. Jeremiah Smith, was withdrawn. Mr. Brent was very desirous that a final decision should be come to on the sub- ject; as whilst it was yet pending, the property in the Federal City was subject to much speculation, the minds of persons concerned were kept in an unsettled situa- tion, and the season was advancing in which the Commissioners wished to take steps to forward the undertaking. He answered the objections which had been made against the form of the bill, and justified the conduct of the committee. He remarked upon what had been said with respect to the security offered for the medi- tated loan. He acknowledged that the credit of the LYiited States was good for any amount, and said that the lots were intended as a security to the United States, and not to the persons who subscribed money to the intended loan. Mr. S. Smith understood that the Commissioners of the Federal City were to make the loan in their own name; but in this bill the President of the United States guar- antees the loan, which, he thought, would interfere with the interests of the United States. He should, therefore, vote for a recommitment. The fourth clause of the bill, he thought useless, and objected to the making of a loan with a mortgage of lots. But though he made these objections to the bill, he was in favor of furnishing money to complete the works in this city. H. Rep. 640 4 50 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Crabb said the fourth section was a necessary part of the bill, which was to complete a great national object. He could not see, therefore, why it should be objected to. If, indeed, gentlemen wished to defeat the whole business it would be well for them to declare their intentions at once. It has been said, if the United States make the guarantee, there is no security, but they may have to pay the money. There was all the security that, could be expected — a vestment of the lots. It was laudable to attend to economy in public affairs; but there would be no economy in refusing to make the guarantee required, but the reverse; as, in that case, the prop- erty would not sell for one-third of its value; and if the Government was to be removed there at the time proposed, the money for completing the necessary build- ings, would have to be drawn from the Treasury. He expatiated at considerable length on the merits of the bill, and insisted upon its conformity to the resolution empowering the committee to bring it in. Mi'. II i LLHorsE was in some degree of the same opinion with the member last up. But he thought it impossible to draw a bill which should perfectly correspond with the resolution of the House so frequently referred to. It had been said yesterday that it was not possible to frame a bill more conformable to the resolution than the one now under discussion. To show that this was possible, he had drawn up a clause which would make the bill in perfect unison with the resolution. [He read the clause.] The bill, so altered, would not tie up the lots so that they cannot be sold to raise the money. And if this clause was adopted, the United States would not be called upon for the money. He wished, therefore, the Committee to rise, and recom- mit the bill. Mr. W. Lyman was against the Committee rising. He wished the sense of the House to be taken, whether it was in favor of the United States guaranteeing the loan, or not. He did not see anything material in the bill which was not in the res- olution of the House, except what related to public squares. Mr. Murray said, to strike out the fourth section of the bill would be to do violence to the property in the Federal City. The first clause transfers the property into the hands of the President, and now objections are raised against the clause necessary to complete the business. If gentlemen mean to destroy the bill altogether, it should be done in a way not to injure the property of individuals. Mr. Rutherford spoke in favor of the bill. Mr. Swanwick was in favor of the Committee’s rising for the purpose of recom- mitting the bill. He objected to the bill generally upon the same ground as yesterday, with respect to joining the securities of the lots, and the faith of the United States together. He asked how the passing of this bill could give value to the buildings of the Federal City? Is it not already enacted that Congress shall sit there in the year 1801? The value of the lots was to be increased only by selling them to a number of persons. The city must owe its prosperity to its peculiar advantages as a commercial spot, and not from its being the Seat of Government. It was, therefore, the interest of the United States to sell the lots and induce people to settle there. The higher price the lots bore, the greater would be the obstacles to settlement. If it was the intention of the United States to grant money for the completion of the building, let the House say so. When it was first proposed to move the Government to the Federal City, it was said that it would be the interest of persons to give lots to encourage the Government to come there. The security now asked for was never contemplated. He had, however, no objection to the United States granting money, but he was against the making of two loans, one on the credit of the United States, and another on that of the United States and certain lots. Mr. Dayton did not altogether like the present motion, and he was against the form of the bill. He wished it to be determined, whether the United States were only to become eventually guarantees for the money borrowed, and whether on the The Old Building. 51 sale of any lot it should be exonerated from the loan. The property he should wish to be placed in the hands of the Commissioners, or in the President, to make sale of it. Mr. Gallatin was against the Committee rising, and against the bill being recom- mitted, until principles be agreed upon on which they mean the bill to be recom- mitted. Two or three plans, directly contrary to each other, are produced, yet all are in favor of a recommitment. It was necessary first to establish the principle. A gentleman had said he had drawn up a clause, which would completely carry the resolution of the House into effect, but he thought the bill before the House more conformable to that resolution than the clause proposed, which contains a different principle. He wished, therefore, that the gentleman would withdraw his motion, for the purpose of settling the principle. Mr. Hilliiouse had no objection to withdraw his motion. Mr. Jeremiah Smith thought it would be economical in the United States to guar- antee the Loan. He thought the substitute offered for a clause of the bill more defect- ive than the one it was meant to supply. He said the United States would not lie actually responsible for any part of the money borrowed; and the committee had thought they could not do better than place the property under the direction of the President ; but if it was thought too heavy a burden to be laid upon him, the business might be placed in the hands of the Secretary of State or Secretary of the Treasury. Mr. S. Smith said, the House was willing to give its responsibility; the way of doing it, was the matter contended for. If the fourth clause had been agreed upon to be struck out, he should have introduced another in its place. If the bill remained in its present state, he said, the United States cannot sell the lots; the people, there- fore, who go there, must purchase of speculators, who may ask what price they please. It has been said, to strike out the fourth section would be to destroy the bill; if so, he would not vote for it. If the fourth section were struck out, he would return to the second, and make some alteration in it, so as to pledge the faith of the United States. It was ridiculous, he said, to think of mortgaging lots for the money to be borrowed; there was no occasion for a counter-security to the faith of the United States. The bill, in its present form, was calculated to advance the price of the lots for the interest of speculators. He would have the faith of the United States pledged for the proposed Loan, and the lots consigned to them as a security. He saw no occasion for the first section of the bill, as he believed the property already vested in the United States, and that the Commissioners cannot convey any lots without the consent of the President — at least, that they out not to do it. He wished the Loan to be made by the Commissioners, with the guarantee of the United States. Mr. Crabb replied to the arguments of the last speaker, and noticed what had fallen from Mr. Swanwick on the subject of tacking the faith of the United States and the lots together. He said that gentleman knew it to be the practice of bankers to require endorsers to the notes of men of the lirst property, and the guarantee of the United States was on the same principle. There would be no necessity for the guarantee of the United States, if the property was as well known in Europe as it is known here. He said, the House had the assurance of the President, that if the property was duly attended to, it would be worth all the money borrowed. P>ut sup- pose the property was not worth the money, the passing of this bill will not lessen, but increase its value. He said, the faith of the United States was already pledged, and they were bound to pass the present bill. Mr. Murray thought it would save time, if the motion for striking out the fourth section was withdrawn, for the purpose of considering the first and second sections. Mr. Varnum consented to this, but again cautioned the House against guarantee- ing what they did not know the extent of. He believed the property would not be equal to the money to be borrowed; and although the President considered the 52 Documentary History of the Capitol. property as of that value, yet it became them, as a branch of the Legislature, to be convinced of it also. If it be true that there is money enough in the hands of the Commissioners to complete the buildings, there is no occasion for this Loan. Mr. Jeremiah Smith said, the committee who brought in the bill thought, as the United States were made responsible, they ought to have a security under their immediate control. If this had not been the case, he should have been against the bill. He went into an explanation of the nature of the Federal City property, and showed that gentlemen were mistaken when they said that the United States had already the property in their hands; they had no control over it, and could not pre- vent the Commissioners from alienating it, but if this bill pass, they will have that power, and security for the Loan proposed to be negotiated. Mr. Dayton conceived the object of reconsidering the first and second clause was to reconcile two opposite principles introduced; this, he said, might be done by mov- ing to strike out a part of the first, or a part of the second clause; he thought the latter would be the best. Mr. LIillhouse wished to move to strike out the first section, in order to introduce another, which he read, for guaranteeing only a part, instead of the whole Loan. He thought the business should still remain in the hands of the Commissioners. Mr. Giles thought the plan proposed by the member from New Jersey best adapted to taking the sense of the House. Mr. Dayton proposed an amendment to the second section, which went to the pre- venting of lots being mortgaged, and to enable the President to sell them. Mr. Jeremiah Smith would not oppose the motion, though he thought there was no necessity for it, as he believed the President would have the same power as the bill stood. Mr. Brent said, it was the wish of the committee that the property might remain in the hands of the President, to be disposed of as he thought proper; but as differ- ent members seem to think the property will not be at sufficient liberty to be sold, by the bill as it stands, he should vote for the amendment. It had been said, by a member, that before he voted for the bill, he should wish for information respecting the extent of the intended Loan, &c. If that gentleman had attended to the docu- ments laid before the House, he would have seen accounts of all the money received and expended, and how much was necessary to complete the business. He may, therefore, be easy on that subject. It had been said, if the lots be a sufficient surety for the Loan, why guarantee it? At present, he said, they were not suf- ficient. Mr. B. observed, that the bill before them would be considered as the touchstone to determine whether the Seat of Government will go to the banks of the Potomac, or not. Motives of policy and economy, and objections to increasing the Public Debt, will not apply in this case. The very act provides funds to guarantee the Loan; for though the property, until the proposed Loan be guaran- teed, would sell for a mere trifle, when it is guaranteed it will sell for a great price. So great a difference would it make, that he believed property which will then sell for two millions of dollars, would not otherwise be worth one hundred thousand dollars. If, therefore, gentlemen are against the bill from economical views, they are mistaken; for, it was his opinion, the property would not only j >ay off the Loan, but eventually be a considerable fund towards the discharge of the Public Debt. It had been suggested that the United States were under no obliga- tion to make this guarantee. He thought differently; he believed the credit of the United States materially concerned. The public have relied fully upon the counte- nance of Government in this business; many persons, indeed, have made great sac- rifices to procure lots in this new city, and if, after holding out temptations to people, the Government should not go there at the proposed time, all these persons will be ruined, and a stain will be laid upon the national character. He hoped, therefore, no objection would be made to carrying the bill into effect. The Old Building. 53 Mr. Sedgwick could not assent to the proposed amendment. He had no objection to the guarantee, but lie did not consider the United States as under any obligations to provide accommodations for the Government in the Federal City. The friends of the act when it passed, every one who was present at the time must remember, disclaimed all intention of calling on Government for this purpose; he could not conceive, therefore, with the gentleman who spoke last, that the faith of the United States was any way pledged. Motives of accommodation would, however, influence him to vote in favor of the guarantee. But he was against the amendment; as, if the funds proved inadequate, every one would look to Government to make good the deficiency. He was willing to guarantee the loan of half a million. To pledge the United States for the whole of the deficiency, if ever so great, he was not willing. Mr. Murray thought the objection of the last speaker might be done away with by an attention to the third section of the bill, which says the President shall sell the lots, to make good the Loan. He hoped the amendment would pass. Mr. Gallatin said, an objection was made to the amendment, because it was a deviation from the original law. We are told, said he, of a sort of contract, and members are called upon to recollect the conditions. He should, however, follow the law. It is said, that Government shall be at such a place, in such a year; hut if they change their mind, they may establish Government where they please. The question is, whether the law is to be carried into effect or not. He believed they had the power to determine this. The law says the Government shall be transferred at a certain time; by another law, certain buildings are to be erected by the Presi- dent. The law must, therefore, either be carried into effect or repealed. The amendment under consideration, Mr. G. said, placed the Loan on the credit of the United States, and not on the lots. It was possible they might have occasion to borrow money on public account, and it would be an awkward circumstance to have two different kinds of Loans. By this amendment, the President has also the power to sell the lots when he pleases, and either pay off the Loan with the money or deposit it in the Treasury. He was, therefore, for the amendment. Mr. Sedgwick explained. The Committee now rose, and asked leave to sit again. [House proceedings of February 24, 1796: Annals of Congress, 4 — 1, p. 364.] LOAN TO THE CITY OF WASHINGTON. The House having resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole, Mr. Muhlenberg in the Chair, on the bill for authorizing a Loan for the use of the Federal City — Mr. Swift observed, it had been said that the fate of the bill depended upon the fourth section; he thought not. He was ready to guarantee the Loan, but would have the money obtained on the lots, and the faith of the United States pledged only for any deficiency which might remain eventually. He wished to keep the United States as detached from the subject as possible, by letting it remain in the same chan- nel which was intended by the original act. The Commissioners might then pro- ceed as usual. If this plan was adopted, he would move not to strike out the words proposed to be struck out; as, when the principle was settled, he should wish the bill to be recommitted. Mr. Havens did not think the motion for striking out certain words of great impor- tance. Pie saw no impropriety in borrowing money on lots; he did not think money lenders would be influenced in any considerable degree by the lots being in the security; but if it was the opinion of the majority of members, that this would be the better plan, he should not object to it. 54 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Dayton said the words moved to be struck out were certainly of consequence, as they admitted of two constructions. If the amendment took place, he said, the United States would not be pledged, as had been stated, to finish the buildings; all they would be pledged for would be to make good any deficiency which there might be before the sum guaranteed by the present Dill and the amount of the sale of the lots. If, indeed, the lots produce more money than will pay off the Loan, then the surplus might be applied to the finishing of other buildings; but he did not consider the United States pledged by the present bill to a greater amount than the sum with which the blank in the bill would be filled up. Mr. Swift said, his wish was that the business should go on in the hands of the Commissioners, as heretofore. This bill, he said, changes the original principle of the plan, by placing the whole of the property in the hands of the United States, leaving it with them to complete the buildings. When once this is determined, he said, the United States might consider the Federal City as a child of their own; and the moment it is known that the Government has interfered in the matter, every expense attending it will be increased. This Avas a necessary consequence, and ought to be guarded against. Mr. Williams was in favor of the buildings remaining in the hands of the Commis- sioners. He could Avish to move, in order to have an important principle decided upon by the committee, that the words “the President of the U nited States ’ ’ be expunged. Until this was decided upon, he said, they might go on from day today, without mak- ing any progress in the business. [On being informed by the Chairman that, his motion was not in order, Mr. W. proceeded to remark generally.] He said it was imprudent to go farther than the original law intended. When business of this sort, he said, is taken up by public bodies, there is no end of the expense. It had been said, great economy had been used by the Commissioners; he did not think so. He called for the reading of a paper, which lay on the Clerk’s table, stating the expense already incurred; which being read, he remarked, that for the single article of surveying alone, more than twenty-two thousand dollars had been paid. It had been com- puted, he he said, that 700,000 dollars would complete the contemplated buildings, but when the high price of materials and labor were considered, most gentlemen would think Avith him that it would require three times that sum. It Avas calculated, he said, the other day, that t.Avo hundred thousand dollars would complete the build- ings for the reception of Congress. There AAere now lots sold to the amount of three hundred thousand dollars; but it is supposed there Avill be a failure in the payment of this sum; but it has not been stated Avhy. Is it right, said he, for GoA r ernment to interfere in this business, to ad vance the value of property purchased by individuals on speculation? When they legislated, he said, they should legislate with their eyes open. A gentleman had said, that, members Avbo opposed the bill would do Avell to throw off the cloak; he Avished the cloak to be thrown off on all sides. But Ave are told, that if Ave do not give energy to this business the public Avill not have assurance that the Government will be removed to the Federal City at the appointed time. There Avas no ground for this remark, as the original act stood unrepealed, and he hoped would remain so. He Avished to keep that act in view, and not A-ary from it. Fie said the public buildings had been begun upon a Avrong principle — upon a plan much too magnificent; they Avere more so than any palace in Europe: they would cost a million of dollars more than calculated. And, said he, everything must be in proportion: the officers Avho go into those palaces must haA'e their salaries proportioned to the grandeur of their habitations. Mr. Williams supposed he should be told this land Avas a gift — but Avhere is the gift? Was not every other lot reserved to the proprietors? and are not these lots noAv more valuable than the Avhole Avas Avhen it Avas first laid out for a city? It had been resolved, he said, that, the permanent Seat of Government should be in this city, and he was Avilling it should be so. He did not think Avith some members, that The Old Building. 55 by keeping the lots in hand they would increase in value ; he thought the contrary. He wished the House would agree to complete the public buildings alone; for, he believed, the instant the United States guaranteed a loan they would have it to pay, and he did not think it right to engage in anything likely to increase the public debt. He t hought the best plan would be to sell the whole of the lots whilst they will bring a high price — he should not object, however, to a reasonable guarantee, but would, by no means consent to the United States taking the business wholly into their own hands. Mr. Dearborn said, there appeared a reluctance to give the House the documents relative to the public buildings. The committee, he said, should receive some information on the subject of the money due on account of lots sold, with respect to a part of it being doubtful. Mr. Brent believed, if the gentleman examined the memorial of the Commission- ers, he would find the papers alluded to. The Commissioners who made sale of the property, he said, were not now the Commissioners. The contracts they made were supposed to be good at that time. The first stipulated payment had been made, the second had been some time due, and was not paid. There was, therefore, reason to believe there would be some failures. It was one of the conditions of these contracts, that a certain number of houses should be built in a given time. Part of these houses have been erected; he believed there were nearly 300. There is no danger, there- fore, he said, if the purchasers should not complete their contract, of there being any eventual loss; but, in the meantime, immediate resources are wanting to prosecute the buildings in hand. Mr-. Giles wished this subject might be treated with candor. He hoped gentlemen who were opposed to the principle of the bill, would allow the committee to form as unobjectionable a bill as they were able. He thought it unfair to prevent a thing being brought into as perfect a state as possible, by attempting to destroy it. When the bill has received its final shape, gentlemen could then object to it if they chose. The present question was on the striking out of certain words, which he did not think material. The arguments in favor of striking out on the ground of a double construction, had some weight, but he did not think the objection valid. The guarantee, said he, will be sufficient to satisfy every purchaser; but it was said, the object of this motion was to reconcile different opinions; if that could be done he had no objection to it. Mr. Giles wished to remark on what had fallen from a member from Pennsylvania yesterday, with respect to the law providing for the removal of the Seat of Govern- ment. That law, he said, differed from all others. The Constitution, itself, he said, prescribes the rule, the act only fixes the spot where it should be carried into effect. The act is, therefore, not repealable. The Constitution does not give a power to fix upon two spots, but upon one spot. He thought it necessary to make this remark, lest he might be supposed to countenance the opinion he combated. It had been remarked that it would be in some degree degrading to the United States to borrow money on the credit of lots; he thought differently, and showed that it was a com- mon thing in Governments to borrow money on different funds. It had been wished to disconnect the Government from the business. Whilst Government guaranteed the loan, he said, it would make no difference whether the loan was bottomed on the lots or otherwise. The nature of the engagement was the same. The question was whether the House would agree to guarantee the loan, or not. Mr. Swanwick explained what he had said on the nature of loans, justifying his remarks on the impolicy of going to Amsterdam to borrow money to complete a building for their Legislature to meet in. Mr. Venable did not feel the delicacy of the member who spoke last, on the sub- ject of borrowing money to carry into effect the present bill. He believed that gen- tleman was not disposed to give the assistance required; but he thought the majority 56 Documentary History of the Capitol. of the House was in favor of pledging the lots. If this was the case, he should wish to supersede the present motion by striking out the first and second clauses, to sub- stitute another in their place, and amend the third section; this will have the wish ed-for effect; the House may fill up the blanks as it pleases, and it will probably never hear of the subject again in a Legislative way, except in case of a final deficiency. Mr. Giles hoped the amendment proposed would accommodate gentlemen who wished to disconnect the Government from the business. He, however, thought it a strong reason for Government’s having something to do in the completion of the buildings, that it might have some control over the management of them. He had seen, and was acquainted with, the buildings carrying on in the Federal City. He thought the house erecting for the residence of the President was much too magnifi- cent, much more so than was intended. Every one thought so who saw it. But this was no reason for obstructing the progress of the business. He hoped the bill would be formed in a manner so as to meet the general sense of the House. Though he had objected to the grandeur of the house intended for the President, he would have the buildings for Congress erected on a grand scale, and fitted for the Repre- sentatives of a great and free people. Mr. Sedgwick said, he had seconded the motion, because it was in conformity to the original act. It undertakes only to guarantee the deficiency between what the lots sell for, and the sum to be borrowed. Thus far he was willing to guarantee, and thought this the most unobjectionable way of doing it. Mr. Sitgreaves observed, that a member had said that it was uncandid to obstruct the committee in their endeavors to make the bill as perfect as possible. He said it was his design to oppose the bill in toto. There was, however, an objection to the present motion, which he thought it important to make. He said, if the lots were conveyed to Commissioners, there was no occasion for the Legislature to pass an act to enable them to borrow money; but he understood the conveyance had been made in trust; if so, these trusts could not be interfered with by the Legislature, they could not be altered. If they were conveyed to be sold, they cannot mortgage, nor can this House give them authority to do so. Even if the Commissioners could be enabled to mortgage, the one design is incompatible with the other. The idea of borrowing on mortgage is inconsistent with the sale of the lots. Mr. Dayton said, the conveyances were made in conformity to the original act for the use of the United States; of course it was necessary to authorize the Commis- sioners to make any loan; that authority must go from this House. The question is, whether it is best to place the property in the hands of the President of the United States, or let it remain in the hands of the Commissioners; he thought the former the best, as it would be in the power of the President so to manage the loan as that it might not interfere with any lien made for the use of Government. With respect to the objection respecting mortgages, it was the same which he had already made, and would be removed by the amendment. Mr. Sitgreaves was not perfectly satisfied with respect to his objections, and wished the Committee to rise, as, before he gave a vote on the subject, he wished for further information. After a few observations from Mr. Giles, Mr. Havens, Mr. Brent, Mr. Venable, Mr. Hillhouse, Mr. Nicholas, and Mr. Jeremiah Smith, the Committee rose, and asked leave to sit again.. The Old Building. 57 [House proceedings of February 25, 1796: Annals of Congress, 4 — 1, p. 369.] LOAN TO THE CITY OF WASHINGTON. The House resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole, on the bill authorizing a loan for the use of the City of Washington; and the motion being put for striking out the first and second sections, in order to introduce another in their place, it was carried — 42 against 32. The third section being read, Mr. Venable moved an amendment, making the lots an appropriated fund for the repayment of the loan. Mr. Jeremiah Smith thought this amendment would not answer the purpose. By it they appropriate property over which they have not absolute control, tie said the fee simple of the property was in the hands of Trustees or Commissioners; that they have a right to sell, and can make good deeds. There were general words, indeed, in the trust designating the use; yet if these Trustees were not to appropriate the money to the completion of the public buildings, the titles which they had given to the property sold would not be injured. There was no way, he said, in which the United States could have an absolute sway over the property, but by a convey- ance of it to some person for that purpose. For if the Commissioners can make a good title, they had no assurance that they might not sell the lots, and the United States be obliged to make good the loan. The United States should, therefore, have a control over the property before the loan be guaranteed. He thought the amend- ment did not go far enough. The lots should be conveyed to the President, as a fund to answer the guarantee, which he should have the power of selling, whenever he pleased to reimburse the loan. Any bill which did not give security to the United States, he could not agree to. Mr. Venable said, the gentleman last up had mistaken the ground on which this property was held. He asserted that the Commissioners were subject to the control of the President in the sale of the property, and that they could not act without him. The conveyance to the Commissioners was only a conveyance in trust. They now come forward to request the United States to authorize them to borrow money, which, if they borrow, they must take up under the control of the President. The Com- missioners, it was true, might abuse their trust, but if they did, they are answerable; nor will the abuse of their trust affect the title of lots sold according to the powers placed in them. The amendment, he said, would not at all alter the ground of the original act. Mr. Jeremiah Smith said, the deed of conveyance to the Commissioners was not a deed of trust, and that t he United States had no property in the lots. He read some clauses of the act to prove his assertion. Mr. Dwight Foster wished to hear the deed referred to read. [It was read.] Mr. Giles said, the amendment which had been introduced into the bill, permits the property to remain in the hands of the Commissioners; the bill, as brought in, proposed to convey the property to the President. Objection was made to the bill in its original form, because it connected Government in the business. He thought the Government no more concerned by directing the President to have the legal, than his having the equitable, right to the property. All Government does is to guarantee the deficiency. The only difference between the two plans is, the difference betwixt the responsibility of the President and the responsibility of the Commissioners. As to the objection that purchasers would not be ready to hold property sold by the Commissioners, it had no weight; the guarantee would satisfy every one. He had agreed to the amendment, but if gentlemen thought it material that a conveyance should be made from the Commissioners to the President, he should not object to it. He wished the bill to be so formed, as to meet general approbation. 58 Documentary History of the Capital. Mr. Nicholas believed it was always in the discretion of the Commissioners to apply the money as they pleased; but they cannot make a title to any property without the consent of the President of the United States. He must be as much a party as if the lots were vested in him, and no purchaser who had not the assent of the President, has a legal title. Government would not have accepted of the grant on other terms. Mr. Havens thought there was a considerable difference betwixt the original act and the deed which had been read. He wished to know the reason of it. Mr. Dayton said, that he had not intended to have troubled the House again on this subject; but what had fallen from the gentleman from New Hampshire had alarmed him. That gentleman had said that the Commissioners had an absolute title of the property; that they could sell it as they pleased; so that the United States had no right to remove the Commissioners, no right to the buildings, nor any right to appropriate the money arising from the sale of lots. If this were the case, he would never vote for the bill. It has been also said that the Commissioners may refuse to sell if they choose; were this so, it would furnish another reason for with- holding his vote. He hoped the title of the property would be better understood, before the bill was further discussed. Three different gentlemen held different opinions on the subject, and he was at a loss to decide on the matter. Mr. Hillhouse thought the amendment did not go far enough; he did not think it sufficiently secured the United States. He would add a proviso, “that, before the lots were conveyed to the President, no money should be borrowed.” He should wish also to have an additional amendment, in order to obviate the objections men- tioned by the member from New Jersey, of the Commissioners having absolute power over the lots; and, when the loan is repaid, if any lots remain, they might be recon- veyed to the Commissioners. If this amendment was agreed to. the President would have full power over the lots. Mr. Brent said, in order to convince the member from New York that the deed which had been read was in conformity to the act, he would read some clauses of the act. No particular mode of making the conveyance is pointed out, but it is left to the President of the United States to make such a conveyance as he thought best. This conveyance fixes the fee simple of the property in the hands of the Commis- sioners, and obliges them to sell publicly, subject to the consent of the President, and that the money arising from the sale shall be appropriated to the erecting of buildings for Congress. The amendment is, therefore, no more than we ought to agree to. With respect to what had fallen from a member from New Hampshire, that we were legislating on a subiect on which we had no right, Mr. B. said they had a right to designate the disposition of the money, when it shall be received by the Presi- dent of the United States. By this amendment, it is said, the Commissioners may dispose of the property as they please; but the consent of the President of the United States is necessary before any sale can be legitimately made. He could not, therefore, see any ground for the fears of gentlemen on this head. Mr. Swift moved that the Committee rise. They were come, he said, to an impor- tant question on the title of the land. Some members say it is in the President, others in the Commissioners, who have sold lots without the consent of the Presi- dent. The House had heard the deed read, but it was a matter that could not be determined upon in a moment; it required to be examined. If the motion for the Committee’s rising was carried, he should wish the bill to be referred back to a select committee. Mr. Brent hoped the Committee would not rise, but proceed with the considera- tion of the bill. He could not help thinking that the procrastination of this business did not arise so much from any doubts entertained on the subject of the title, as from a dislike to the bill itself. The Old Building. 59 Mr. Crabb said, the House had already deliberated a long time upon this business. If the bill contains a guarantee, that is all that is warranted. If the house will not agree to this, let the bill be thrown out at once. Clauses had been objected to which were immaterial. If gentlemen would show themselves in their proper colors, they might be met on proper grounds; at present they could not. A gentleman had said yesterday he blushed on account of the magnificence displayed in the public build- ings carrying on in the Federal City, and hinted that no gift had been made to Gov- ernment by certain States; but, he said, the public buildings would be an honor to the country; and, if he will refer to the Journals of the Legislatures of Virginia and Maryland, he will find that each of those States have granted a considerable sum in money towards erecting the public buildings. Mr. Nicholas wished the Committee to rise, in order to reconsider the business. Mr. Giles said, there was a propriety in referring the bill to a select committee, as he thought they might be aide to bring in a bill which would meet the wishes of the House. The Committee rose, and the House refused it leave to sit again. The bill was then agreed to be recommitted, and that four additional members be added to the select committee to whom it was referred; and Mr. Brent wishing to decline to act again on the committee, a member was voted for in his stead. * * * Mr. Dearborn moved a resolution to the following effect: “ That the committee to whom is referred the bill authorizing a loan for the use of the City of Washington, be instructed to inquire whether any, and what, alterations ought to be made in the plans of the buildings intended for public use at the permanent Seat of Government of the United States, and make their report thereon.” Mr. Murray hoped the resolution would not be agreed to. The buildings had pro- gressed towards such a state of finishing as to put it out of the power of any one, without great waste of money, to make alterations in them. And, though gentle- men may see faults in the plans, or think the buildings too magnificent, yet, as they had no concern in originating these plans, and, as the plans or errors are out of the reach of amendment, what reason is there for the inquiry? No money is asked, either of this House or of the United States; and it would be, therefore, improper to undo what has been done by two States who have made large donations for this pur- pose. What, then, can be the object of this motion? Nothing can be done, except gentlemen can point to any error which can be rectified. And though he admitted these buildings were the property of the United States, yet there was a delicacy in interfering in a matter in which they had not expended any money. He hoped, therefore, the resolution would not be agreed to. Mr. Dearborn said, that if the committee found, upon due examination, that no alteration can be made with propriety in the public buildings alluded to, the}' would report accordingly. How these facts were it was at present uncertain. As to the question of delicacy, he said, if the business had gone on without application to them, it would have been improper to have interfered in it; but, as the assistance of Government was called for, he thought it became that House to make the proposed inquiry. If the plan was such as it would be impolitic to carry into effect, it would influence his vote on the subject; but if the plan was such as he approved, it would be otherwise. There could be no danger in making the inquiry. Mr. Crabb thought the proposed inquiry very improper. The law, said he, has appointed the President of the United States to manage this business. Suppose the inquiry were to take place, and the buildings are found on too large a scale, shall they he pulled down, and smaller ones erected? If gentlemen were indulged, where would their inquiries end? He read the Message of the President to the House on the subject, wherein he says the sale of the lots will be equal to the expense of the buildings. It would be well, he said, if gentlemen would gain a little more infor- 60 Documentary History of the Capitol. mation on subjects, before they brought them forward. If this had been the case, he thought much of the debate which had occupied the House for several days might have been saved. Mr. Dearborn acknowledged he lacked information, but that he had attempted, without effect, to gain it from his accuser. Mr. Bourne did not see why the proposed resolution should not be agreed to. Considerable information had come out in the course of the debate on the subject of the public buildings, and more might be got. It appeared to be a subject of doubt whether the House have or have not the power of control over these buildings. The question is worth inquiry. If the committee thought an interference necessary, their report would be so framed. He believed much opposition to the bill for authorizing the loan had arisen from objections to the extravagant style of building employed in the Federal City. Mr. Murray said, he did not think the resolution was worded as if it was intended to gain information. He said the public buildings had been erected under the con- trol of the President, and according to plans, as he understood, first submitted to him. And, if he has acted legally and consistently, if he has not exceeded the powers given him, why should the House interfere in the business? He believed the trust had been performed in the best manner. If the object of the resolution had been to learn how far certain buildings were progressed, or other information, he should not have objected to it; but could not agree to it in its present form. Mr. Thatcher wished to know if the committee found the buildings too large, they were to divide them, or cut off an end, or, if not large enough, enlarge them? The resolution appeared to give a greater latitude to the committee than he thought the mover intended. It would be difficult to form a judgment of the buildings unless they were in possession of the original plans. Mr. Giles thought the committee should report facts to the House, and not their opinion, relative to the state of the public buildings at the permanent Seat of Gov- ernment. He had a resolution, which he thought might be substituted in place of the one proposed. Mr. Dearborn said, the resolution just read did not go to the length he wished. He wished that if the house erecting for the President should be thought too large that it might be made the Capitol, and erect another in its stead, and perhaps on another piece of ground. Mr. Swan wick said, the House had been called on to guarantee a loan to complete the public buildings in the Federal City. It was proper, therefore, that they should examine what had been done and what remains to be done. This subject has been before the House several days. New facts have been developed, and it w r as neces- sary to make inquiry in order to mature the business. A gentleman had said the subject was already in very high and respectable hands; notwithstanding this, he had himself been upon the spot, and could say he had found plans had been fre- quently changed. Seeing, therefore, that the plan was not at first perfect, he saw no impropriety in vesting the inquiry in a committee. How can this House go into a guarantee without knowing the necessary facts relative to these buildings? The House will not be bound by the committee’s report, but will act as they please. Many alterations may be made in what is not finished. This House, before now, has not interfered in the subject; but now the state of the case is altered — Govern- ment is called upon for a guarantee, and information is necessary. Mr. Giles said, if the object of the resolution had been information, he should not have objected to it. He would ask the gentleman from Pennsylvania wffiat effect the opinion of the select committee w T ould have on him? He wished the gentleman who proposed the resolution would consent to have the one he had read substituted in its place, and suffer the opinion to be the result of facts. The Old Building. 61 Mr. Gallatin said, it did not appear to him that the resolution proposed to be sub- stituted in place of the one moved, included all the ideas of the mover. lie supposed the committee would not only report their opinion, but the facts on which it was grounded. He saw no impropriety in incorporating both resolutions into one. The objections against the motion are not well-founded. It is stated that we have no control over the buildings, because the land was given by certain States, and because they have been erected under the direction of the President. But, though grants have been made by individuals, the whole of the value results from the Government being fixed there. The discretionary power was exclusively vested in the President. It was subject to one check; it not only gave him the power, but made it his duty to attend to it. The grants not proving sufficient, a demand is made either to give money or guarantee a loan. Money being asked, another check must be introduced, to say how far these buildings shall go. This House has a right to inquire not only the past expense, but what shall be expended in future. This resolution is, there- fore, proper. He was a friend to the principle of the bill- itself; he did not think any great change could be effected in the plans of the buildings; but it was necessary they should have all the information possible. Mr. Coit hoped the motion would prevail; many of the objections to the bill guaranteeing the loan having arisen from a dislike to the extravagance of the buildings. Mr. Murray said, it evidently appeared to him that, in consequence of an applica- te m to that House for a guarantee, which had been greatly perplexed, under shelter of objections and inquiries, labors were making rather to destroy than to finish the buildings. Gentlemen seemed inclined to destroy the power intrusted to the Com- missioners, and with it the property of the city; and, after having taken down the present buildings, and fixed upon a different situation for them, they may proceed to new model the city, narrow the streets, &c., and, by doing this, violate the rights of private property. No man, if this intermeddling system prevails, can be safe; and, as soon as this principle is understood, it will shake the property of the place. It is a city in speculation, and one false step may prostrate it. Mr. Crabb again strenuously opposed the resolution. Mr. Cooper was opposed to the resolution. He said all they had to do in the business was to guarantee the loan, and get the security of the lots for the money. Mr. Sedgwick said, he had all along viewed the subject in one point of view. Accommodations were to be made for Government without any expense to the public. The Commissioners come forward and say they have property to do this, but that they cannot immediately procure money so as to complete the buildings in time, and ask for a guarantee to a loan. It was extraordinary, he said, for them to say the buildings were too magnificent, too commodious, too expensive. The better the buildings are the more honor it will be to those who erected them, and to those who occupy them. If they were too small and incommodious, there would be real ground of complaint. If that House undertook to say what should be the size of the build- ings, they should do what they had no right to do. And, even if they were more splendid than European palaces, they should be grateful for them. The resolution was put and carried, 42 against 38. Mr. Giles’s resolution being called for, it was put and carried, to the following effect: “That the said committee shall lie instructed to inquire into the state of the Public Buildings at the permanent Seat of Government of the United States, into the expense already incurred in erecting, and the probable expense of completing the same.” (52 Documentary History of the Capitol. [American State Papers, Class X, Misc., v. I, 142. — No. 78. 4tli Congress, 1st Session. City of Wash- ington. Communicated to the House of Representatives, March 11, 1796.] Mr. Jeremiah Smith, from the committee to whom was recommitted the bill author- izing a loan for the use of the city of Washington, in the District of Columbia, and for other purposes therein mentioned, with instructions to inquire whether any, and what, alterations ought to be made in the plans of the buildings intended for public use at the said city; and, also, to inquire into the state of the public build- ings, the expenses already incurred in erecting, and the probable expenses of completing the same, made the following report : That, in their opinion, no alteration can with propriety now be made in the plans of the public buildings; for information as to the state of the public buildings, the expenses incurred in erecting, and the probable expenses of completing them, the committee can only refer to the original report and the papers accompanying, which have been read in the House. Alexander White, one of the commissioners appointed by the President of the United States, by virtue of an act entitled “An act to establish the temporary and permanent seat of the Government of the United States,” respectfully states to the committee, to whom the memorial of the said commissioners and the President’s message respecting the same were referred: * * * The foundation of the Capitol is laid; the foundation wall under ground and above is of different thicknesses, and is computed to average fourteen feet high and nine feet thick. The freestone work is commenced on the north wing; it is of different heights, but may average three feet and a half; the interior walls are carried up the same height. The estimate to finish the north wing is, for brick and stone work, £22,308 3s. 3d. Maryland currency; for carpenters’ work and materials £5,870, Maryland currency, making $75,141 45. The materials on hand are, freestone pre- pared 1,994 superficial feet; freestone prepared 3,826 feet, running; good freestone in the rough 440 tons; inferior freestone 200 tons; bricks 267,618; lime 4,750 bushels; timber prepared for use 7,000 feet, running; timber not prepared 11,000 feet, running. A. White has no estimate of the remainder of the building, but would observe, that as the south wing is to be occupied by one large room only, the expense must be much less than that of the north wing, which is considered as sufficient to accommo- date both Houses of Congress during the present state of representation. The main body, too, will be finished in the same way; and the grand vestibule may or may not be covered with a dome; architects differ in opinion with regard to covering it. If it should not be covered, it will consist only of an arcade, twenty feet high and ten feet wide; and over that a colonnade sixteen feet high, affording a communica- tion from the grand staircase to all the other parts of the building. Upon the whole, A. White thinks he goes beyond the necessary sum, when he estimates $400,000 for finishing the whole building. * * * The funds of the city are: The Virginia donation S120, 000 The Maryland donation 72, 000 Amount of sales to Morris & Greenleaf 480, 000 Sales of other lots 96, 652 Harbaugh, Lee, Deakins, and Cassanove’s note (arising from the sale of property, the original cost of which is charged in the article of expenditures) 10, 538 $779, 185 Deduct money expended a 343 , 783 Deduct money due the bank of Columbia 30, 000 Deduct money due the original proprietors, for squares appropriated 12, 000 6 384,783 394, 402 «This ought to be $338,565 30; the sum of $4,217 91, consisting of small balances due, being, through inattention, stated as expenditures. 6 This addition appears to be erroneous; $1,000 too little. The Old Building. 63 Of the last mentioned sum, $378,191 are not yet due, but will become due in the following proportions, viz: In the year 1796 In the year 1797 In the year 1798 In the year 1799 In the year 1800 378,191 05 $84, 539 19 80, 719 09 75, 789 93 68, 571 42 68, 571 42 Leaving in the hands of the commissioners, were all debts due to them received, and debts due from them paid $16, 211 Or, in other words, there is due to the commissioners 58, 211 And they are indebted 42, 000 The real property of the city consists in 4,694 lots, exclusive of water lots, averaging 5,265 square feet; 1,694 of these are choice lots, from which Morris & Greenleaf were excluded in their selection. The average value of these lots, taking the prices at which they have been sold from the commencement of the city, is $285 per lot, amounting to $1, 337, 790 Water property, 3,500 feet front, at $16 per foot 56, 000 1,393,790 Lots no doubt vary in their value; those from which Morris & Greenleaf were excluded far exceed the above average price; others may fall considerably below. A. White has no doubt but the whole may be sold if the public buildings can be carried on without immediate sales for $1,000,000, even before the Government removes. The city has, likewise, an island of freestone of immense value, and some other property of less note. A. White is of opinion, that filling up some gulleys or ravines near the Capitol, and paving the Pennsylvania Avenue from thence to the President’s house, is all that is necessary to be done to the streets, except clearing of stumps and grubs, and per- haps, in a few instances, levelling previous to the removal of Government: the ground in general being hard and gravelly, will afford an easy passage till the city becomes populous. He can form no estimate of the expenses, being unacquainted with such business, and not having it in contemplation while on the spot; he believes, however, the necessary materials are convenient. Alexander White. January 21, 1796. General account of expenditures by the commissioners of the Federal District, from the 12th of April, 1791, to the 1st of November, 1795. * * * Capitol $78,035 29 Engraved plan of the city and territory .-. 370 37 [House proceedings of March 31, 1796, Annals of Congress, 4--1, p. 825.] LOAN FOR THE CITY OF WASHINGTON. The bill authorizing a Loan for the city of Washington, and for other purposes was read a third time; and the blanks being filled up as follows: the whole amount of the Loan to be filled up with 300,000 dollars, not more than 200,000 in anyone year, and to bear interest of six per cent, reimbursable at any time after the year 1803. The question being on the passage of the bill — ■ Mr. Co it declared himself against the bill. He considered it as taking so much money out of the Public Treasury, and that although it was considered only as a 64 Documentary History of the Capitol. guarantee for payment of money borrowed on very ample funds, it would operate no otherwise than as an absolute grant. Indeed an absolute grant, he said, would be less exceptionable to him, as he considered that this bill was hanging out false colors to the public, as it would tend to hold up the idea that there was a value in the lots in the city of Washington, which he believed did not exist. The value which had been annexed to those lots, he believed, was a mere speculating bubble. This bill might serve to keep it up a little while longer, but he believed it must finally burst. Upwards of four thousand lots, it was true, had been sold, and the public had more than four thousand on hand, which were said to be worth, on an aver- age, 285 dollars each, these with some water lots, which are set at 16 dollars per foot, are estimated at more than 1,300,000 dollars — but, if carried to market now, it was agreed there were no purchasers for them. Mr. C. said, he had inquired into the situation of this city — he asked gentlemen to look at the map of the country, and they might judge of its situation; it was true, it was nearly at the head of the navi- gation of the Potomac, a noble river, and in a fine country; but there was nothing to give to this city exclusive possession of the commerce of that country, or of that river. Alexandria, a few miles below it, and Georgetown a few miles only above, on the same river, had equal advantages of situation, and had the preference of having merchants, as he was informed, with very considerable capitals, already established in them; Baltimore, at the head of Chesapeake Bay, on this side, and Norfolk, not far from the mouth of James river, he conceived were situations, more especially consider- ing the strength of capitals already fixed at them, far more advantageous for extensive commerce. These lots, itmust be agreed, could beof no more value than other planting ground, unless there was a demand for them as building lots. If the Federal City were likely to become a great commercial place, that, demand might at some future period exist, but of this he conceived there was not the remotest probability, and he believed that for the justice of this opinion, he might safely appeal to every commer- cial man acquainted with the situation, and not prejudiced by local considerations. What, then, he inquired was to cause a demand for these lots? The mere residence of Congress, he conceived, must go but an inconsiderable way to the forming a great city. Two or three hundred houses, at the utmost extent, must suffice for Congress and all its connexions and appendages for many years. Mr. C. said, he had no wish to obstruct the removal of the Seat of Government to the Federal City. He believed it would be removed, and he wished it, and he believed that the buildings for the accommodation of Congress must finally be made at the public expense; but he wished it to be done in an understanding and not in a covert way. Unfortunately there had already been expended between three and four hun- dred thousand dollars, as he conceived, to what was worse than no purpose. He did not accuse any person of having embezzled or misspent the public money, except in the extravagance of the plans which had unfortunately been adopted — 97,000 dollars had been expended on the President’s house, and it is estimated that, nearly as much more will be wanted to complete it, and when done, he conceived that, a house which would cost only 50,000 would better answer the purpose; about 80,000 had been expended on the Capitol, and progress was scarcely made beyond the foundation. Gentlemen might talk of elegance, of splendor, and magnificence, for people who had money to spend for their pride or pleasure; these subjects deserved consideration, but in the present state of the finances of the United States, he thought more atten- ion should be paid to use and economy. Considerable revenues, he observed, were now at the disposal of the Commission- ers of the Federal City. If left to use the means they had at command, he hoped necessity would oblige them to contract the extravagant plans for the buildings which had been commenced; but., if the Public Treasury was once opened he should expect many future applications and heavy ones on the Public Treasury for those buildings, which, he feared, would be a lasting monument of the pride and folly of The Old Building. 65 his country. He observed, that possibly he was alone in these sentiments, but he could not justify himself without expressing them, and, wishing to know if any gen- tleman concurred with him in opposition to the bill, closed with calling for the yeas and yeas. Mr. Sitgreaves said, he also should vote against the bill; he objected to its form and to its substance; to the form, because he thought it held out a delusive appear- ance of security to the money-lenders, and of indemnity to the United States, by professing to mortgage lots in the city of Washington, which, he contended, are not at the disposal of the Government. By the deed of trust, which had been read on the former debate of this bill, it appeared that all the lands in the Federal City had been conveyed by the individuals who formerly owned them, to trustees in special trust, to wit, that so much of them as might be appropriated for streets, squares, and the sites of public buildings, should, by the trustees, be conveyed to the Commis- sioners [appointed under the act of 1790, for establishing the temporary and perma- nent Seat of Government] and their successors for the use of the United States; that the residue should be laid out in lots, one-half whereof to be reconveyed to the other granters, and the other half to be sold under the directions of the President; that the produce of the sales should in the first place be applied to the payment in money of £25 per acre, to the granters, for all the reserved lands except the streets; and that the remainder of the money or securities should be paid, assigned, and deliv- ered over to the President of the United States, for the time being, as a grant of money to be applied for the purposes and according to the act of Congress before mentioned. From hence Mr. S. inferred that, the Commissioners, who by the bill are authorized to make the Loan on the pledge of the lots, hold no property in the City of Washington, except the streets, squares, and sites of the public buildings; that the residue of the lots are not held in trust for the United States, and of course cannot be mortgaged by them, and that the Government had only a right to the proceeds of the sales. This construction is authorized by the remarkable difference between the expression of the trust so far as relates to the lots directed to be con- veyed to the Commissioners, and those directed to be sold. It is also authorized by the provisions of the act of 1790, in careful conformity with which the deed appears to have been drawn; and which empowered the Commis- sioners to receive grants of lands for the sites of the buildings, and of money for the purpose of erecting them. It was clear, therefore, that the bill assumed too much when it undertakes to mortgage the lands, and that all really in our power would be to pledge the funds arising from the sales after they shall be paid over to the Presi- dent. But if these lands are at the disposal of the United States, then, for the secur- ity of the Government, the bill should go further, and direct them to be conveyed, in the first instance, to some responsible officer of the Government. The trustees who have at present the legal title to these lands, can in nowise be considered as officers of the Government, amenable to it in a public capacity. We cannot require of them to give security for the faithful performance of their trust. We cannot impeach them for a violation of it. We have no other reliance than on the respectability of their private characters — no other remedy than a suit in chancery, as in common cases of private trusts. When they sell the land, they may pay over the money, or they may not. Even the President is not responsible in his public character until after the money comes into his hands. Mr. S. was aware that the Attorney General differed from him in the construction of the deed, and he had great respect for his opinion, yet when the propriety of vesting the lands in a responsible public officer, an additional security was suggested to the Attorney General, he hesitated, and eventually declined to give the bill that shape. From these considerations Mr. S. inferred that the bill did not, in fact, give the money, or render the security it pro- 6(5 Documentary History of the Capital. fessed to offer; or, if it did, it was deficient in the provision necessary for the com- plete indemnity of the Government. On these principles he objected to the form; he objected also to the substance. He did not consider the faith of the Government as pledged, by any one act it had hitherto done, to pass the present bill; if good faith imposed no obligation on them; he was sure that prudence forbade them to do it; by a reference to the act of 1790, no such obligation would be found to lie created by it; it will appear by it that the Commissioners are empowered to purchase or accept such quantity of land within the Federal territory as the Presdent shall deem proper for the use of the United States. And to provide suitable buildings for the accommodation of Congress, of the President, and of the public offices — and for defraying the expense of such purchases and buildings, the “President is authorized to accept grants of money” — there is for this purpose no appropriation of public money nor any promise of such appropria- tion; no guarantee nor any assurance of a guarantee; for the expense of the removal of the public offices an appropriation is made; and this provision shows that no other expense to the Government was contemplated; those who were members of the Con- gress of 1790 know the fact to be so, that the proposed grants of the States of Virginia and Maryland, and of individuals, were expected to be competent to the object, and that such an expectation and assurance was a condition on which the law passed; a condition not indeed expressed in the act, but which for that reason we are not the less bound to respect; a condition the breach of which would have all the aggravation of a violation of confidence. The Government therefore not being pledged to the object of the bill, he considered the House as restrained by every consideration of pru- dence from acceding to it. Any gentlemen who would take the trouble, as he had done, to examine the papers on their table would discern that, the extent of the city, the distribution and the plans of the public buildings, had been predicated on a scale of magnificence the eventual expense of which was not within the reach of calculation, or even of conjecture; would it be proper then for Congress by passing this bill to give ground for an opinion that the United States were to adopt and to become the foster-father of those projects? Gentlemen had affected to consider the proposed measure as one which could not involve the Government; but a guarantee implies in itself the possibility of an eventual loss; it necessarily implies a supposed deficiency in the security to be guaranteed. If the loss in the Federal City are themselves a sufficient security for the proposed Loan there could be no occasion to call in aid the faith of the Government. The bill therefore ought fairly to be considered as a grant of money on the part of the United States for the purpose of prosecuting the public buildings in the City of Washington, and if they once began to grant money for this purpose, he asked, when they were to stop? He would venture to say, never, if their grants were to keep pace with the necessities of that institution; he believed the law of 1790 never would have passed if the most solemn assurances had not been given that no such application would ever be made to the Government; and he therefore felt himself bound to oppose the bill. Mr. Nicholas was not willing to trouble the House on this business. He would, however, make a few observations on what had fallen from the gentleman from Con- necticut, with respect to the value of the property. He was authorized by the Commissioner attending Congress to say, that 4,000 lots had been sold for 100 dollars each, since this question had been first agitated, and it must be evident that seventy dollars a lot would indemnify Government for the amount of their guarantee. He did not expect, after an investigation had been had and report made, that Government would be safe in the advance of 500,000 dollars, that 300,000 could have been objected to because the lots could not be sold in a moment. Many things were of great value, for which purchasers were not at all times to be found. The remarks of the gentle- man from Pennsylvania, on the law of this case, might, from the obscurity of the subject, he said, have some weight. He would, therefore, notice them. He The Old Building. 67 objected to the form of the bill, because it was a deception of the public and might be so on the United States. The gentleman had questioned the power of Congress to control the disposition of the lots and had given it as his opinion it could not be done. Mr. N. was of opinion that the United States being alone (after the payment of 15 or 20,000 dollars to the original owners of the lots on which the public buildings are erecting) interested in the proceeds of the sale, Congress must have a control over the sales themselves. This was agreed to be the opinion of the Attorney Gen- eral, who attended the committee. The gentleman from Pennsylvania had said, if this was the case the bill was wrong, for it should have required a conveyance of the lots to some responsible officer of the Government to have made Government secure. If the management is already in the hands of an officer of Government, and the management of the property can be controlled by law, we have all the security which could be obtained by the conveyance spoken of. If gentlemen attended to the bill, they would find that this property is in the hands of a responsible officer of the United States; for the trustees cannot make a convey- ance but by the consent of the President of the United States, so that he, in effect, is himself the trustee, and they could not have better security. But he would for a moment take the gentleman’s doctrine as true. What then? The President must be considered as a private person in disposing of the lots. It was agreed that as soon as money was received it went to the President, in his public character, and he was answerable for the application of it to uses prescribed by law. It would fol- low, that he might abuse his power in the first instance, he might sell the property for less than it was worth. If the gentleman’s doctrine was true, the United States would have no tie upon the President to produce a fair sale, of the lot', but what arises from his regard to reputation and his regard to his private fortune, which would be answerable for his conduct. He hoped there was no danger of having any man at the head of the Government on whom these ties would not be sufficient. But Mr. N. did not consider these observations as necessary, for he considered the gen- tleman’s real opinion as unsound. The arguments of gentlemen themselves were sufficient ground for the present guarantee. They say sufficient money has been given for completing the buildings, if it had been properly expended. If the property had been squandered, was it the fault of those who gave it? When gentlemen, therefore, say that enough had been given, if there were any contract, such as had been conjectured to exist, it proves it to have been fulfilled. It was said they had no claim upon the United States. But did not the United States say, “this is a proper situation for Government?” If it were to go there it was certainly because it was for the general interest, and if there were no funds, they must find them. But they were not called upon for money. They were asked to guarantee a Loan to prevent the waste of those funds which had been furnished by States and private persons. lie hoped no doubt would, therefore, remain on the subject. Mr. PIillhouse concurred in opinion with the Attorney General on this subject. He said the money-lenders could not call upon the United States for their money, until the lots shall have been sold, and there remains a deficiency, and there is little chance of the President’s selling the property for less than it was worth. And though they could not control the sale of the lots, it was the money-lenders who ran the risk, and not them; nor was there any occasion for the United States to take care of the money-lenders, they would take care of themselves. The bill was now on safe ground; the sum of the guarantee having been reduced from $500,000 to $300,000. He was under no apprehension that the United States would even be called upon for a single shilling. And if they could give facility to the erection of the pub- lic buildings, they ought to do it. They ought not to throw obstructions in the way. He did not consider the House as pledged for any thing more in passing the present 68 Documentary History of the Capitol. bill than the bill purported. He wished it now to pass, as his former objections to it were done away. Mr. Rutherford hoped, since the bill had been amended, it would pass by a great majority; for Congress to throw cold water upon the proceedings now, it would be unjustifiable. The minds of the people were drawn towards the Federal City, and property would advance in price; but if Congress should defeat the operations of the Commissioners, it would operate to the disadvantage of the Union. Mr. Swan wick said, if he thought with the gentleman from Connecticut, last up, that the United States were not likely to he called upon for any part of the money which they were about to guaranty, the measure would have received his approbation; but he did not view the subject in the same light with that gentleman. He thought the) should have to pay the whole sum, and that 300,000 dollars would not be the whole of what that House would be called upon to provide, if ' the bill before them was passed. How could they say at what sum they should stop? Was the bill entitled “an act for providing money for finishing the public buildings in the Federal City?” No. It was “an act for guaranty- ing a Loan for the use of the City of Washington.” On the same principle they might guaranty loans for all the cities in the Union. Why a Loan for the City of Washington in particular? Was there any reason why the different cities in the 1 Union should be taxed for that city? Was it meant that Government should go through with the business, and see all interior improvements properly finished in this new city? Nothing was mentioned in the bill for which this money was wanted. Instead of finishing the public buildings, it might be used for paving, lighting, or otherwise improving the city. Mr. S. observed, that it was with Government as with individuals, the facility of borrowing money frequently led to ruin. But it was said the lots were worth a great deal more than they were asked to guaranty. He was of a different opinion, and he was afraid gentlemen would find themselves dis- appointed in that particular. Speculation, lie thought, had been at the highest pitch. No sooner was it announced that Government was to go to this new city at a certain period, than the cry was immediately raised that commerce would flow into it from all quarters; that it would become the centre of all the property in the Union; that Ambassadors would build great seats there; that it would be everything that fancy could picture as delightful. What was London, Paris, or all the cities of the earth compared with this city! What, said he, has been the consequence? What might have been expected and what will happen in all similar cases, public opinion with respect to this city will probably fall as rapidly as it rose. But, said he, lots in this city had been objects of bargain and sale in Europe. Gentlemen go there and say, “This is to be the greatest city on earth, the lots are, it is true, somewhat high, but they will be ten times higher.” It was astonishing, he said, to see and hear the exaggerations which had been circulated with respect to this city. He himself had seen in a London paper, an account stating that there was already 7,000 houses built there. Persons in Europe, believing these representations, had given high prices for these lots, in the same way as they had been induced to give high prices sometimes for very indifferent lands. Speculation now, however, being in some degree flat, it must be raised by the present bill. The public must be informed that Government will take this city upon their own shoulders, and it will be asserted that the United States will take up this city as the Czar Peter took up Petersburg. If any foreigner were to embrace this idea, would he not find himself probably miserably deceived, in the result? But, suppose the sum proposed to be borrowed were to be employed in finishing the public buildings intended for Govern- ment, how degrading would it be to go into Europe to borrow money to erect these buildings? If he had studied to find out a plan of degrading the honor or the country, he could not have hit upon one more humiliating. What would be thought at Amster- dam, when the United States were borrowing money to erect houses for the different The Old Building. 69 Departments of their Government to meet in. If money was wanted for this purpose, why not raise it by taxes? The ease with which money might be borrowed at a tend- ency to stupify all exertion, and the end of it would be, that the whole of their revenue would go to pay the interest of their debts to foreign countries. It was the opinion of most thinking men on the subject, (and the President had wisely recom- mended the measure for four successive years) that their Public Debt should be extinguished with all possible speed. And what, he said, was the conduct of that House? They say they will pay every attention to the subject, but still incur fresh debt. The report of the Committee of Ways and Means was before them, by which they saw how their finances stood. He feared they should soon have nothing but bills for Loans before them, from finding it so much more easy to borrow than to raise money by taxation. They were following a practice which had brought Great Britain to the brink of ruin. If the lots, said Mr. S., ever would he of value, it was now; for, in matters of speculation, the more uncertainty there was, the greater room there would be for conjecture and calculation. He thought it very improbable the property should increase in value. For when the Government shall be removed, it may be found that from the shortness of the sessions of Congress there, the advan- tages which they would confer would not be very great, and consequently, that much of the speculation which had been formed of the great prosperity of that city, had been founded in error. He would not be understood to say that the City of Wash- ington might not have a gradual increase and consequence like that of any other city in the Union, but not that it would grow as it were spontaneously in the man- ner some gentlemen seemed to expect it. For the reasons he had mentioned, he should vote against the passing of the bill; and though the bill should be carried by a great majority, he should not regret the vote though he should be found alone on the occasion. Mr. Havens said, the bill carried a refutation of the argument used on its support in the face of it, viz: that the lots are worth more than the money proposed to be guarantied. If the money-lenders believe this to he true, there would be no need of a guarantee. This guarantee being asked for, convinced him that it was not believed that the lots would bring the money. He had taken some pains to find whether the price the land would command will be likely to repay the sum proposed to be borrowed, and could not discover any well-founded reasons for the belief. Every gentleman must be sensible that if they engaged for $300,000, they engaged the Government for the whole sum. But what was meant when it was said that there was some kind of obligation to go to this new city at the time mentioned? He could read no such contract. The buildings were to be completed. When he was upon a committee on another subject, he made inquiry whether, if the buildings intended for Congress were not completed, they might not be accommodated in some other way; and, if his information was right, before the year 1800, there would be parts of the city finished in which they might be accommodated; or, if not in that city, in Georgetown, which lies near it? He should vote against the bill. Mr. Murray would remark, that the very point in dispute had been taken for granted. It had been said, the call for a guarantied loan indicated in itself a con- sciousness that the lots were not worth the sum to be borrowed upon their credit. This he would explicitly deny. On the contrary, there is a full and well-grounded conviction that the lots upon which the credit is asked would at this moment sell for more than the sum in view: and that, therefore, as mere money-lenders, the loan would be a safe bargain. It was likewise clear, almost to demonstration, that if the immediate pressure for money were removed, that must otherwise force the lots into the market, the operation of the loan, when properly laid out in the improvement of the city, will add value to the lots pledged, and thus increase the resources of the borrower in such a manner as that he not only will be enabled to discharge the sum borrowed, but also have a great and valuable residuary as a 70 Documentary History of the Capitol. fund, from which the City of Washington, without internal taxes, may be embel- lished. As the United States will have exclusive jurisdiction within that city, it was deeply their concern to husband their resources so as to make them accomplish their present ends and their future objects. Expose all the lots to sale at present, and, though you will get the sum which may be immediately necessary, you strip the estate entirely of all resources in future but those of taxation. If the Govern- ment feels any interest in their own affairs, for the affairs of that city as a peculiar scene of their jurisdiction, are more or less their own, they will adopt, towards that city and its resources, those maxims which, in private, and, indeed, public character, constitute a sound economy. He had never anticipated the support of the gentleman from this city, [Mr. Swan- wick,] but he confessed he did not expect so warm an opposition to this bill from that gentleman. He has taken great pains to discredit the value of property in the city, and has painted the city itself as an airy fiction of speculation, a mere sort of castle-building dream, such as man oversets when he rises out of bed from the reveries of the morning. It is true, he observed, that the scheme is a speculation — the whole of life and its concerns, perhaps, are no more; but it is speculation rising from a con- currence of events and local circumstances more favorable to a profitable issue, than any other that had of late presented itself to men of genius and enterprise. It was founded on nothing airy but to the mind that could think lightly of the sanctity of public faith; nothing groundless, unless to those whose interests led them from a fair calculation of those immense advantages that unite themselves in the centre of the Union, on one of the noblest navigable rivers in the world. It was a speculation bottomed for the security of its profits in the faith of the Union. It is impossible that the gentleman, who is really so excellent a judge of good speculation, of com- merce, and of city property, and whose property so adorns this city, and so largely contributes to its elegant amusements — for that circus and that hotel in view belong to the gentleman — should seriously believe that the Federal City is an airy specula- tion. It must have been in the moment of poetical indulgence, and been determined in the cast of character he meant to assume in the debate, to give us “T’other side of the Gutter,” which he understood was an excellent dramatic thing, as it was played in the gentleman’s own circus, tie lamented that that circus was not now in the Federal City. He observed, that were the question at this moment to be, in what part of the Union shall the permanent Seat of Government be? he believed that it would be placed where it is contemplated, at the Federal City. If great views pointed out the banks of the Potomac, in Maryland, to be the proper place under such a question, would it not be extremely natural for the Government, not perhaps to give, but to lend money, in aid of private enterprise, for the very rational purpose of living in houses, in preference to holding their sessions, like Druids, in the open air or under trees? If houses were deemed necessary, if a thousand accom- modations were essential to the settling of the Government there, what would be the duty of Government? Certainly to promote, not to discourage the growth of a city, and to lend money to attain that end. Mr. Page said, he would vote for the bill, because, if it were not passed, it would give the public an idea that they did not mean to go there at the time appointed. He was no friend to the having a district of ten miles square, nor to the magnificence displayed in the President’s house. He believed they need not be under any appre- hensions of loss from the present guarantee; but, if the bill was rejected, the palace and other public buildings erecting there would come to nothing. Mr. Swanwick rose, and remarked upon what had fallen from gentlemen in reply to his observations. When he mentioned the removal of the Government, he did not mean to make any allusion to Philadelphia, or to the value of property there. He said, the gentleman’s opinions were as erroneous with respect to the present as to the future. They seemed to ascribe the prosperity of Philadelphia to the residence The Old Building. 71 of Congress there; whereas, if they would look around them, they would see more rapid advances in some other places which had not had the same advantage. A gradual rise had, for some time, been taking place in all parts of America, owing to a great influx of money and increase of commerce. Having this opinion with respect to Philadelphia, he felt perfectly indifferent about the removal of the Government — it would not take one cubit from her stature, nor from the value of the land to which the gentleman from Maryland had alluded on “T’other side of the Gutter.” It was said, that he objected to the title of the bill only. The bill, he said, con- templated a variety of objects, consequently the money proposed to be borrowed might be applied to any of them, as he did not find it was confined to the public buildings only. What was the original act for fixing the future Seat of Government, of which they had said so much and quoted so little? [He read the clause which says the President shall be authorized to receive grants of land and money.] The present bill was much at variance with the original act, for it makes the United States become speculators, and guaranty a large sum in a foreign country at six per cent, on the credit of the lots. He could not agree to this partnership of spec- ulation, which the Government was about to enter into, because he should not himself choose to risk his private property in such an adventure, and thought it a good rule not to place the public on ground he should not like himself. But, it was said, good faith required that they should guaranty this loan, because they had said Government should go there at a certain period. But this was only said conditionally, if proper buildings were prepared for their reception. It was not expected they should, at all events, go there and sit under the canopy of Heaven. The objections which he had made to the borrowing of money, did not seem to have the same weight with other gentlemen which they had with him. He said there would be a loan to be negotiated for the use of Government, and he was appre- hensive the one might interfere with the other. This step was only the commence- ment of the business. He remembered when £20,000 were granted for building the house of the President, in Philadelphia, it was thought a very large sum, but nearly twice that sum had been asked for since, and the house was not yet finished. So it would probably be in this case. They were applied to at first for $500,000, but now the sum was reduced to $300,000. He expected this would not be the last call. He was against the principle of the bill. He would not make any further observations on the subject, nor would he have risen again, had it not have been to notice some rather personal remarks which had been made on the sentiments he had before expressed. Mr. Sitgeeaves said, it was to be expected that the members from Pennsylvania would, in giving opposition to this bill, have to meet the reflections which they had heard. He was, for his own part, not surprised at them, nor, indeed, was he dis- pleased. He would submit to them, and to much more, when conveyed with so much pleasantry as had been used by his friend from Maryland, [Mr. Murray.] But the members from Pennsylvania would ill deserve the confidence reposed in them by their constituents if they should suffer such considerations to mingle with the discharge of their public duty, or if they could be prevented from declaring their opinions by that greatest of all weakness, the apprehension that improper motives might be attributed to them. He could not help considering that gentlemen greatly overrated the advan- tages derived to the city of Philadelphia from Congress sitting in it. He had read that when one of the Kings of England, in a fit of disgust, threatened the citizens of London to remove his Court and Parliament to Oxford, they hoped “his Majesty would not take the Thames with him.” And, so long as they left the Delaware behind them the city of Philadelphia would, he imagined, feel no material loss from the removal of Congress, except, indeed, the agreeable society of its members during their session. But he considered this humorous kind of discourse on serious subjects as calculated to keep out of view more important considerations. He had stated that the bill was 72 Documentary History of the Capitol. an illusion; that the United States assumed and held out to the public and to money- lenders a right to pledge property, which, he ventured to say, they did not possess. He had said this, though the Attorney General and three professional gentlemen in that House maintained an opposite opinion; for all his respect for their sentiments could not induce him to abandon his own in that which he had expressed. He had not been singular, and he trusted he had shown satisfactory grounds on which he supported it. But, if the opinion of the Attorney General was just, and the land was at the disposal of the United States, he contended that would be a decisive reason why the bill should not pass, because it did not furnish for the United States the best indemnity that, conformably to that opinion, the case is susceptible of. It had been agreed, before the recommital, that if greater security than the bill offers could be given them, it ought to be given. If the opinion contended for is correct, the land can, and, if it can, it ought to be placed in the hands of a respon- sible public officer: whereas, at present it was in the hands of private trustees, per- sons no way amenable to the United States, but by process in the Courts in the common forms. He was sure the President was not publicly responsible until the money came into his hands. When grants of money were paid into his hands he was responsible for them. It has been said the trustees could not touch the money. From whence was this opinion collected? The trustees alone can convey to purchasers. The money, by the deed, is expressly appropriated, first, to pay the original price of the land, and must pass through the hands of the trustees before the residue can be paid over to the President for public purposes. He had said the present bill was liable to another objection, viz: as holding out a false view to money-lenders, and he had been astonished to hear from a gentleman from Connecticut [Mr. Hillhouse] that money-lenders would take care of themselves, and that Government need not make itself uneasy on that head. He was sure that such a sentiment did not agree with that delicate and tender regard which that gentleman always appeared to profess for the purity of public credit. Mr. Sitgreaves said, he was willing that Government should remove to the new city as proposed, and would lay no obstruction in the way of that removal. There was, however, an essential difference between interposing obstructions and refusing aid, which we were not bound to grant. They ought to say, “We are bound to go if you are ready to receive us, but we will not become city builders.” This bill, he said, was predicated on a possibility that we should one day have to pay the money, for which it pledged the United States as guarantee. He should continue to oppose it. Mr. Brent said, the present bill seemed to be peculiarly obnoxious to the gentle- man from Pennsylvania last up, because it purported to guaranty a loan for the erec- tion of public buildings in the Federal City. He said, he was by no means tenacious about the title, so that the object of the bill was obtained. He said, the apprehen- sions of the gentlemen from Pennsylvania and Connecticut were the most unfounded that could be imagined, and if they had noticed the observations which had fallen from his colleague, they must have seen that they were unfounded. When they recollected what the lots had sold for, the number remaining on hand unsold, and the price they will most probably command, when it is known that Congress has agreed to guaranty the proposed loan, it must be one of the most idle apprehen- sions to suppose that this property will not be a sufficient guarantee for the amount of the loan. Gentlemen had said that if, when the original act passed, it had been supposed that application would have been made to Government to aid the erection of the public buildings, it would never have gone into effect. He knew not what might have been the opinion at that time. He formed his ideas from the act of Congress itself. There he found if there were certain concessions made by any State for the use of the General Government, Congress stipulated that the Seat of Gov- The Old Building. 73 ernment should be removed. In consequence of this declaration, two States and several individuals of the States had made considerable sacrifices. Will gentlemen, then, say that, after these circumstances had taken place, and these offers had been solemnly accepted, that the faith of the United States was not pledged? If so, they view the matter in a far different light from him. Objections had been made with respect to the security of the United States with respect to the trustees. It would be sufficient to say that these subjects were fully considered by the select committee, and they had taken the opinion of the Attorney General, which was clear and satis- factory. Those who heard the deed read would recollect that the property was to be conveyed to trustees, and sold, from time to time, under the direction of the Presi- dent, the money to be appropriated by him for the erection of suitable public build- ings for the use of Government. But, according to the gentleman from Pennsylvania, the public had no security but the money might be diverted by the trustees to other purposes. This opinion was so far from just, the trustees could never have touched the money, as the property is to be sold under the direction of the President of the United States. He should be glad to know, therefore, what possible risk there could be in the disposal of the property? The purchaser will see that the trustees are the sole agents, and that the money is to be under the direction of the President. Can it, then, be supposed that any purchaser will pay his money other than agreeably to the direction of the President? With respect to engagements on the part of the public. It had been suggested that sufficient money had been paid into the hands of the President to finish the public buildings. The fact might be so. He did not mean to determine on the misapplication of money. But, admitting the buildings were on too extensive a scale, and the money had been squandered, against whom does this accusation retort? Not against those who gave it, but on that House, who had not attended to the expenditure of it. The fault rested with them, but they were not, on that account, dissolved from their engagement. The gentleman from Connecticut said he entertained no wish to obstruct the removal of Government, but he was unwilling to grant the proposed loan. If he objects to the buildings being on too large a scale, but is still willing to transfer the Government, he should have brought forward his objections in an earlier stage of the business, and suggested a different kind of plan for the buildings. But, as he had suggested no such plan, the gentleman’s making an objection to the mode now, appears like an attack upon the bill itself. And, if he were of opinion that it was desirable to remove the Government at the time appointed, it was essentially necessary to guaranty the loan, as the buildings were now at a stand for the want of the necessary aid, or they must legislate under the canopy of Heaven. He trusted, therefore, the gentleman would see the propriety of voting for the present bill. Mr. Ckabb said, he should have expected objections from any part of the Union sooner than from Pennsylvania. One of the members from that State [Mr. Sit- greaves] had told them that there was no obligation on Congress from the original act — at least he knew not of any such. But he had forgotten that they were bound to sit in Philadelphia ten years; and, if they might judge from the gentleman’s lan- guage on this occasion, he thought they might conclude he wished to keep them longer. His colleague [Mr. Swanwick] traveled no further than the title of the bill, and found a bill authorizing a Loan for the City of Washington. But, if he had read the first clause of the bill, he would have found that the money was wanted to com- plete the public buildings in that city. The same gentleman went on to say, that it was degrading to America to borrow money in a foreign country to erect their public buildings, and that, before he should do this, he would come forward and lay taxes upon his constituents. If that gentleman was willing to do this, he was not. He thought it would be a wanton abuse of their power to lay a tax unnecessarily. He had no doubt but the lots would sell for double the sum proposed to be borrowed. 74 Documentary History of the Capitol. It had also been said that a guarantee amounted to a loan. No guarantee could be made without such words. The same gentleman proceeded, and said, if the lots were worth the money why call upon Government for a guarantee, why not borrow money upon the lots themselves? That gentleman, said Mr. C., might borrow his thousands or tens of thousands at home, where his property is known, but if he were in a for- eign country, and unknown, he would have need of a guarantee if he wanted to bor- row. He trusted the bill would pass by a large majority, which would serve to show to the public that they did not mean to impede but to cherish the growth of this infant city. The sense of the House was then taken by yeas and nays, and the bill passed, 72 against 21. * * * [Senate proceedings of April 25, 1796: Annals of Congress, 4 — 1, p. 74.] The Senate proceeded to consider the report of the committee to whom was referred the bill, entitled “An act authorizing a loan for the use of the city of Wash- ington, in the District of Columbia, and for other purposes therein mentioned.” On motion, that the bill be referred to a special committee, to examine the esti- mates and expenditures, and report generally thereon, it passed in the negative — yeas 12, nays 13. -x- * * And, after debate, the further consideration of the bill was postponed. [Senate proceedings of April 26, 1796: Annals of Congress, 4 — 1, p. 75.] The Senate resumed the consideration of the report of the committee to whom was referred the bill, entitled “An act authorizing a Loan for the use of the city of Wash- ington, in the District of Columbia, and for other purposes therein mentioned.” A motion was made to expunge from the second section, these words: “And if the product of the sales of all the said lots shall prove inadequate to the payment of the principal and interest of the sums borrowed under this act, then the deficiency shall be paid by the United States, agreeably to the terms of the said Loan.” Whereupon, a motion was made to postpone the motion for amendment, together with the report of the committee, until this day se’nnight; and on the question to agree to the postponement, it passed in the affirmative — yeas 13, nays 11, as follows: * * * On motion, that Mr. Biter be permitted to vote on the question, having been absent when it was taken, it passed in the negative. [Senate proceedings oi May 3, 1796: Annals of Congress, 4 — 1, p. 77.] The Senate resumed the consideration of the report of the committee to whom was referred the bill, entitled “An act authorizing a Loan for the use of the City of Wash- ington, in the District of Columbia, and for other purposes therein mentioned.” On motion, further to postpone the consideration of this bill, it passed in the neg- ative — yeas 4, nays 16, as follows: * * * On motion to expunge the following words from the 2d section, line 16 to 20: “And if the product of the sales of all the said lots shall prove inadequate to the payment of the principal and interest of the sums borrowed under this act, then the The Old Building. 75 deficiency shall he paid by the United States, agreeably to the terms of the said loans” — It passed in the negative — yeas 8, nays 16, as follows: * * * On motion to insert these words in the 1st section, after the words “six per centum per annum,” “ including all charges and expenses,” it passed in the negative — yeas 10, nays 14, as follows: * * * Ordered, That this bill pass to a third reading. [Senate proceedings of May 4, 1796: Annals of Congress, 4—1, p. 79.] The bill sent from the House of Representatives for concurrence, entitled “An act authorizing a Loan for the use of the City of Washington, in the District of Colum- bia, and for other purposes therein mentioned,” was read the third time; and, on the question, Shall this bill pass? it was determined in the affirmative — yeas 16, nays 7, as follows: * * * So, it was resolved that this bill pass. [“An Act authorizing a Loan for the use of the City of Washington, in the District of Columbia, and for other purposes therein mentioned,” approved May 6, 1796. (Stats, at Large, v. 1, 461.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the commissioners under the act, entituled “An act for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of the government of the United States,” be, and they are hereby authorized, under the direction of the President of the United States, to borrow, from time to time, such sum or sums of money, as the said President shall direct, not exceeding three hundred thousand dollars in the whole, and not exceeding two hundred thousand dollars, in any one year, at an inter- est not exceeding six per centum per annum, and reimbursable at any time after the year one thousand eight hundred and three, by instalments not exceeding one-fifth of the whole sum borrowed in any one year; which said loan or loans shall be appro- priated and applied by the said commissioners in carrying into effect the above recited act, under the control of the President of the United States. Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That all the lots, except those now appropriated to public use in the said city, vested in the commissioners aforesaid, or in trustees, in any manner, for the use of the United States, now holden and remaining unsold, shall be, and are hereby declared and made chargeable with the repayment of all and every sum and sums of money, and interest thereupon, which shall be borrowed in pursuance of this act: And to the end that the same may be fully and punctually repaid, the said lots, or so many of them as shall be necessary, shall be sold and con- veyed, at such times, and in such manner, and on such terms, as the President of the United States, for the time being, shall direct: And the monies arising from the said sales shall be applied and appropriated, under his direction, to the discharge of the said loans, after first [raying the original proprietors any balances due to them respectively, according to their several conveyances, to the said commissioners or trustees. And if the product of the sales of all the said lots shall prove inadequate to the payment of the principal and interest of the sums borrowed under this act, then the deficiency shall be paid by the United States, agreeably to the terms of the said loans; for it is expressly hereby declared and provided, that the United States shall Documentary History of the Capitol. 76 be liable only for the repayment of the balance of the moneys to be borrowed under this act which shall remain unsatisfied by the sales of all the lots aforesaid, if any such balance shall thereafter happen. Sec. 3. And he it further enacted, That every purchaser or purchasers, his or their heirs or assigns, from the said commissioners or trustees, under the direction of the said President, of any of the lots hereinbefore mentioned, after paying the price, and fulfilling the terms stipulated and agreed to be paid and fulfilled, shall have, hold, and enjoy the said lot or lots so bought, free, clear and exonerated from the charge ami incumbrance hereby laid upon the same. Sec. 4. And he it further enacted , That the commissioners aforesaid shall, semi- annually, render to the Secretary of the Treasury a particular account of the receipts and expenditures of all moneys entrusted to them, and also the progress and state of the business, and of the funds under their administration; and that the said sec- retary lay the same before Congress, at every session after the receipt thereof. [From the report of George Hadfield, Superintendent, respecting the work done at the Capitol from May 17 to November 17, 179G (4 — 2, House Ex. Docs.: Letter of Oliver Wolcott, Jun., Secretary of the Treasury, transmitting letter from the Commissioners appointed under the act “ for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of the government of the United States,” with sundry docu- ments, communicated to the House Deeember29, 1796, Statements E and F, pp. 23 and 25.] Report of George Hadfield, Superintendent, Respecting the Work done at the Capitol from nth May to the 17th November , 1796. Free Ston:» outside carried above rough Stone to the bottom of Second Story, 23 feet high. Brick work, South and West side, and do. All over the Inside up to the Second Story, 18 feet do. * * * Sighed, George Hadfield, Capitol, Nov. 17th, 1796. Report of George Hadfield, Superintendent, Respecting the State of the Capitol on the 17th May, 1796, when the Setting of Free Stone, and Laying of Brick commenced. The foundation is layed all over the Building, and the rough Stone work carried above ground, 9 feet high. Free Stone out side on the average, 3-6 do. do. Brick work inside, do. do. do. * * * [Mss.: Letters of the Presidents of the United States, p. 101: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Philadelphia, 99th Jan. 1797. Gentlemen Having received a letter from Mr. George Walker, of which a copy is enclosed, with my answer; a senee of duty to the public, and of propriaty as it relates to yourselves, requires the transmission of both, to you; for the purpose which is expressed in the latter. After the severe weather Ave have had, I think it probable there Avill be an early spring. In which event I persuade myself that great exertions will be used to for- The Old Building. 77 ward the Capitol in preference to any other object. — All others indeed depend, in a high degree, thereon, and are or ought to be subordinate thereto. — As such therefore with a view to remove those unhappy jealousies (which have had a baneful influence on the affairs of that City ) as to invigorate the operations on that building, I cannot too often, nor too strongly enjoin it upon those who have not already taken their stands in the City, to do it without delay; and as convenient to the important theatre, as they can be accommodated. It may be relied on, that such among the best disposed friends to the Act for estab- lishing the seat of Government, on the Potomac, there are many who intermix doubts with anxiety, lest the principal building should not be in a situation to accomodate Congress by the epoch of their removal; — and it is not less certain, that private build- ings (such are essential for the accomdation of their members) will progress no faster than the. other; nay less, — as buildings around the Capitol will be erected principally by the wealthy — by those who would take in boarders, and by shopkeepers; — the whole of these, more than probable, will wait until the accomplishment of the first — the prospect of it I mean is reduced to a moral certainty. It is not only of infinite importance therefore to make all other measures yield, in reality to this, but in appearance also; — especially, under the present difficulty of obtaining loans, and the uncertainty of your funds; which must depend upon public opinion, and the confidence which is placed in the administration of them. To what I have here said, I shall only add the esteem and regard of Gentlemen, your most obedt. servt., Go. Washington. The Commissioners of the City of Washington. [Mss.: Letters of the Presidents of the United States, p. 102: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.! Philadelphia, loth Feb. 1797. Gentlemen, Several of your letters have been received within these few days; and notwithstanding the accumulation of business consequent on the near epoch for my quitting the chair of government, the receipt of them should not have remained so long unacknowledged had I not placed , such as related to the Power of Attorney, and to some disputed points, into the hands of the Law Officer of the United States for his official opinion; without having received his report — owing, I believe, to his having been hurried, almost, as much as myself. Thus circumstanced, I shall confine the subject of this letter wholly to the expres- sion of my sentiments relatively to the public buildings; concerning it necessary that you should be informed of them without delay. When in the course of the autumn you suggested the propriety of designative the sites for the Executive Offices, and for providing materials for their erection, I yielded a ready assent; and still think that if we had the means at command, and no doubt was entertained of the adequacy of them, that these buildings ought to commence. But when the difficulty in obtaining loans, and the disadvantageous terms on which the money is borrowed, has since become so apparent; when I see those whose interest it is to appreciate the credit of the City, and to aid the Commissioners in all their laudable exertions brooding over their jealousies, & spreading the seeds of distrust; and when I perceive (as I clearly do) that the public mind is in a state of doubt, if not in despair of having the principal building in readiness for Congress, by the time contemplated, for these reasons I say, and for others which might be enumerated, I am now decidedly of opinion that the edifices for the Executive Offices ought to be suspended; that the work on the house for the President should advance no faster 78 Documentary History of the Capitol. (at the expense or retardment of the Capitol) that is necessary to keep pace there- with and to preserve it, from injury; anil that all the means (not essential for other purposes) & all the force, ought to be employed on the Capitol. In may be relied on, that it is the progress of that building, that is to inspire, or depress public confidence. Under any circumstances this, more or less would be the case; but when it is reported by many, I believe by some (without foundation I am persuaded) that there is a biass elsewhere; it is essential on the score of policy, & for the gratification of the public wishes, that this work should be vigorously prosecuted in the manner I have suggested. — And I require it accordingly. — Con- sidered in a simple point of view, the matter stands thus. — Are the funds sufficient to accomplish all the objects which are contemplated? — If doubts arise, then, which of those objects are to be preferred? On this ground there would be but one opin- ion; — every body would cry out, the Capitol. Again, admit that the resources will ultimately be adequate, but cannot be drawn forth in the ratio of your general wants, will not the same answer, as it respects time, apply with equal force to the building just mentioned? — This then, seems to be safe ground to proceed on. It would gratify the public wishes & expectation; — might, possibly, appease clamour; — and if all the buildings cannot be completed in time, no material evil would result from the post- ponement of the subordinate Offices, until the Capitol is in such a state of forward- ness as to remove all doubts of its being ready for the reception of Congress by the time appointed. — Another good ( mentioned in a former letter) would flow therefrom; which is, that in proportion as that building advanced, & doubts subsided, private buildings would be erected where they would be most noted for the accomodation of the members. — The public offices might shift (as they have done) awhile longer. — I write in much haste (for this mornings Post) that the letter may get to you in the course of the week. — If I have expressed myself in such a manner as to be clearly understood it is enough, you must excuse the scrawl & believe me to be with esteem & regard — Gentm., Yr. Obed., Go. Washington. CoMMKS. OF THE ClTY OF WASHINGTON. [From the report of George Hadfield, Superintendent, on the state of the Capitol, Nov. 25, 1797. (5 — 2, Letter of Oliver Wolcott, Secretary of the Treasury, accompanying report of the Commis- sioners of the City of Washington, communicated to the House Dec. 14, 1797.)] REPORT OF WHAT PROGRESS HAS BEEN MADE ON THE BUILDING OF THE CAPITOL FROM THE 18TPI OF MA Y LAST, TO THE 18TH INSTANT, NOVEMBER, 1797; ALSO, OF WHAT MATERIALS ARE ON HAND. The free-stone work on the outside is raised as high as the top of the Corinthian capitals all round the building, and on the north side as high as the architrave of the principal order which is within 11 feet of the whole height, so that part of the entablature and the balustrade, are only wanting to complete the whole of the intended elevation. The brick work is also raised as high as the roof, and the naked flooring of the building is almost entirely laid, the roof will shortly be finished, and may be laid in its place before the ensuing spring, when the interior finishing may be commenced for the completion of the building. Dimensions, &c. Feet. Average height of the free-stone raised this season 36 Total from the foundation wall 57 Average height of brickwork raised this season 35 Total from the foundation wall 56 Naked flooring laid in 12 rooms. Ditto, ditto, in galleries 4. The Old Building. 79 [House proceedings of Feb. 23, 1798: Annals of Congress, 5 — 2, p. 1063.] CITY OF WASHINGTON. The following Message was received from the President of the United States: Gentlemen of the Senate, and Gentlemen of the House of Representatives: The enclosed memorial from the Commissioners appointed under an act of the United States, entitled “An act for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of the Government of the United States,” representing the situation and circumstances of the city of Washington, I take this opportunity to present to both Houses of the Legislature, and recommend to their consideration. Alexander White, Esq., one of those Commissioners, is now in this city, and will be able to give to Congress, or any of their committees, any explanation or further information which the subject may require. John Adams. United States, February 23, 1798. The Message and the memorial accompanying it (which prays further assistance from Congress in behalf of the Federal City) were ordered to be printed, and were referred to a committee of the following gentlemen, viz: Messrs. Craik, Sitgkeaves, Brent, Stanford, Varnum, Allen, and Sumter. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 4, 238: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] MEMORIAL, TRANSMITTED TO CONGRESS FEB. 23, 1798, WITH A MES- SAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT. * * * The two principal Buildings, now far advanced, are on plans approved by the late President, they were carried on under his direction without any interference on the part of Congress, until the Session which commenced in December 1795: a Com- mittee of the House of Representatives was then appointed consisting of nine Members, who were instructed to enquire whether any, and what alterations ought to be made in the plans of the said Buildings, and who reported that no alteration could with jiro- priety be made therein. — Whereupon, Congress passed an act, authorizing the Com- missioners, under the controul of the president of the United States, to borrow $300,000 under the guarantee of Congress, for the purpose of completing those Buildings, and others required by the said first mentioned Act; and placed the execution of the business under their own immediate inspection, by enacting, “That the Commis- sioners shall, semi-annually render to the Secretary of the Treasury, a particular account of the Receipts and Expenditures of all monies entrusted to them, and also, the progress and state of the business and funds under their administration; and that the said Secretary lay the same before Congress at every session after the receipt thereof,” which Act has been duly complied with on the part of the Commissioners. * * * Gusts. Scott, W illiam Thornton, Alex White. [From the Report of the Committee to whom was referred, Feb. 23, 1798, the President’s Message, inclosing a memorial from the Commissioners of the city of Washington, Mar. 8, 1798. (5—2, House Committee Reports.)] REPORT. The Committee, to whom was referred the Message from the President of the United States, inclosing a memorial of the Commissioners appointed under the act for “estab- lishing the temporary and permanent seat of the Government of the United States,” 80 Documentary History of the Capitol. representing the situation and circumstances of the City of Washington, and solicit- ing the aid of the Federal Legislature to enable them to complete the buildings requisite for the accommodation of the Government of the United States, at the said city, having taken into consideration the said memorial, together with the annexed information of the attending Commissioner- Report the following resolution: — Resolved, That two hundred thousand dollars be appropriated for the compleating the buildings requisite for the accommodation of the Government of the United States, at the City of Washington, to be subject to the draughts of the President of the United States, for the time being not exceeding one third of the said sum in any one year. Alexander White, one of the Commissioners appointed by virtue of the act of Con- gress, intituled “An act to establish the temporary and permanent seat of the Gov- ernment of the United States, attending for the purpose of giving information, respect- fully states to the Committee, to whom the memorial of the said commissioners and the President’s message was referred, That the capitol, in the city of Washington, if the plan shall be fully executed, will contain a main body and two wings;- — the main body is composed of two parts — a grand circular vestibule to the east, of 112 feet diameter and a conference room to the west, a circle of 90 feet diameter, both of full elevation — the first covered with a dome — the second with a temple — the latter will finish on the outside with a colonade in the center of the west front. The south wing will contain the Representatives’ chamber, an ellipsis of 88 by 66 full elevation. The north wing is considered as sufficient to accommodate the Legislature during the present state of respresentation — It contains the following apartments: — In the first story, the Senate room, 56 by 36, semicircular, and two stories high — lobby, 38 by 22 — four rooms 28 by 35 each — North entrance, 20 by 45 — East ditto, 28 by 22 — grand staircase, 36 by 45, elliptic — small ditto, 10 by 20. In the second story — Tem- porary Representatives’ chamber, 81 by 35, two stories high — one room, 40 by 20 — one ditto, 30 by 23, — On the third story — lobby, 38 by 26 — three rooms, 27 by 31 each, — -one room, 29 by 23, — one ditto, 20 by 45 — one ditto, 23 by 30 — The building forms a front of 350 feet — The foundation of the whole is laid — The freestone work of the north wing is raised as high as the Corinthian capitals all round the building, and on the north side as high as the architrave of the principal order, so that part of the entablature and the balustrade are all that is wanting to compleat the intended elevation — The brick work is raised as high as the roof, and the naked flooring is nearly finished, being laid in twelve rooms, and four galleries — The expense of finishing this wing, exclusive of the materials on hand, is estimated by the superin- tendant of the building at 46,762 dollars. * * * The funds of the city, on the 18th of November, 1797, (exclusive of the real pi'operty stated in the memorial, and an island of freestone) consisted in the follow- ing sums arising from the sale of lots, viz. then due, Dollars 65,047. 60-10Qths. — to become due in the year 1797, Dollars 432. 70-100ths. — to become due in the year 1798, Dollars 74,669. 37-100ths. — ditto in 1799, Dollars 69,469. — ditto in 1800, Dollars 68,571. 43-lOOths. — amounting to Dollars 278,190. 10-100ths. — and Dollars 109. 76-100ths in cash — Since which time the Commissioners, under the sanction of the President of the United States, have obtained a loan of 100,000 dollars from the state of Maryland, in United States’ six per cent, stock; which stock was trans- ferred in January last, and is expected to produce about 84,000 dollars. — The debts due from the Commissioners, at this time, were estimated at Dollars 36,632. 58-100ths including Dollars 13,091. 51-100ths payable to the original proprietors of the city. The annual expenses of the establishment are estimated as follows: Commissioners’ office, Dollars, 7,060. 27-100ths. Surveying department, Dollars 2,947. 85-100ths. Hospital for sick labourers, Dollars 291. 14-100ths. City of The Old Building. 81 Washington, Dolls. 2,875. 66-100ths. Interest on 200,000 dollars borrowed of the state of Maryland, 12,000 dollars — Total Dolls. 25,174 92-lOOths. So that after deducting the sums due and to become due, to the first of January, 1799, inclusive, only Dollars 22,192. 50-100ths. of the money borrowed will remain to be applied to the buildings: But it is to be observed, that there is now due, for lots sold, Dol- lars 65,480. 30- lOOths. and in the course of the present year Dollars 74,669. 35-100ths will become due, making Dollars 140,149. 65-100ths a sum exceeding that the Commissioners contemplate to expend during the ensuing season; but there being no mode sufficiently efficacious to enforce immediate payments, the Commissioners apprehended their operations might be impeded by the default of debtors; they therefore deemed it incumbent on them to make known the situation of the federal buildings, and their resources for carrying them on, with the probability of the fail- ure of these resources, at least to a considerable degree, to the President of the United States, which has been done by a memorial addressed to him, in which memorial the Commissioners pointed out the measures which they conceived the President was authorized to pursue for their relief, and stated their reasons for believ- ng, that these measures would not prove effectual under existing circumstances — and suggested the propriety of laying the subject before Congress — Of this the President approved, and advised, that a full and candid statement of the whole should be laid before Congress, in a memorial to be signed by the Commissioners, and presented, or at least attended by one of them. The Commissioners have caused the superin- tendants of the Capitol and President’s house to make accurate estimates of their expense of finishing those buildings, and have obtained, from a master builder, an estimate of the expense of erecting the Executive buildings, with a view of undertak- ing to build them; these estimates are stated in the memorial to Congress; and the Commissioner attending now adds, the estimated annual expense of the establish- ment; this he expects is beyond the expense of future years, as one of the surveyors is already discharged, and the business of that office drawing to a close; but esti- mates of the expense of building generally, fall short of the actual cost; he therefore wishes the Committee to consider 120,000 dollars as the sum requisite to finish the Capitol and President’s house. * * * All the material facts respecting the federal buildings, it is conceived, are stated, either in the memorial of the commissioners, or in this note; the object of their rep- resentation is, that Congress may have the subject fully before them, and be enabled to judge of the measures necessary to ensure the completion of those buildings in due season; the doubts, which are entertained on this subject, tend much to depre- ciate the property, as well of the public, as of the debtors, on the value of which the recovery of large sums depend; the same cause operates with equal force against the erecting private buildings, which are so essential to the agreeable accommodation of the government. The commissioner attending, being deeply impressed with the opinion, that the property now at the disposal of the President, will, under proper management, prove ultimately sufficient for defraying the expense of all the requisite buildings; is not desirous, that Congress should at this time grant pecuniary aid beyond the completion of those deemed absolutely necessary — that is, houses for the accommo- dation of the Congress, the President, and the Executive offices — he considers 200,000 dollars an ample provision for that purpose, and that appropriations need not be made for more than one third part of that sum in any one year; he is also of opinion, that if the debts due and to become due can be collected, no part of the above sum will be required for the present year, and a very small part, if any, in future, should Congress extend their views no further than to the buildings last enumerated, and he begs leave to assure the committee, that such measures as shall be deemed most effectual will be pursued to enforce the payment of debts. H. Rep. 646 6 82 Documentary History of the Capitol. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 4, 272: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Philadelphia 11th March 1798 Gentlemen, Since my letter of the 8th Inst., I have been a good deal among the Members of Congress, and am of opinion that no law will pass granting money for the Federal Buildings without appropriating it to the objects which Congress may approve, unless the President’s sentiments on the Subject are previously known. I was alarmed at the consequence of that opinion, because I knew the investigation necessary to determine the proper objects would lead to delay, and might probably end in the rejection of your Memorial. * * * I am, with Sentiments, &c., Commissioners op the Federal Buildings, Washington. p g * * * Alex. White. [House proceedings of Mar. 14, 1798: Annals of Congress, 5—2, p, 1266.] CITY OF WASHINGTON. Mr. Craik moved that the House go into a Committee of the Whole on the report of the committee to whom was referred, on the 23d ult., the Message from the Pres- ident of the United States, enclosing a memorial from the Commissioners appointed under the act for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of the Government of the United States; which motion being agreed to, the House went into a Commit- tee of the Whole on the subject, and the memorial and report having been read, the following resolution was under consideration: “ Resolved , That two hundred thousand dollars be appropriated for completing the buildings requi- site for the Government of the United States, at the city of Washington, to be subject to the draughts of the President of the United States, for the time being, not exceeding one-third of the said sum in any one year.” After some observations by Mr. J. Williams against agreeing to this resolution, on the ground that it was never expected that Congress was to be at any expense in erecting the public buildings; but that the States of Maryland and Virginia who had ceded the land for the purpose of the city, had engaged to provide them, and except they did provide them, Congress was not obliged to remove there at the time appointed, Mr. Gordon proposed an amendment, to strike out $200,000, and insert “$66,666,” as it was stated that only one-third part of the $200,000 were to be expended in any one year. This amendment occasioned considerable debate, and was at length negatived, there being only 22 votes for it. The resolution itself was then carried, by 58 mem- bers voting in its favor; and a committee was appointed to bring in a bill accordingly. The resolution was advocated by Messrs. Nicholas, Thatcher, Rutledge, S. Smith, Harper, Craik, and T. Claiborne, and opposed by Messrs. Livingston, Varnum, and J. Williams. [House proceedings of Mar. 19, 1798: Annals of Congress, 5 — 2, p. 1272.] CITY OF WASHINGTON. On motion of Mr. Craik, the House went into a Committee of the Whole on the bill making an appropriation for completing the buildings necessary for the accom- modation of the Government at the city of Washington. The bill having been read, The Old Building. 83 Mr. Gallatin moved to strike out the words, “for completing the buildings,” in order to insert the same words which were used in the original act for establishing the permanent seat of Government, viz: “ for providing suitable buildings for the Government of the United States.” His object in this amendment was, not to give any sanction to the buildings now going on for Government in the city of Washing- ton, and oblige the Commissioners, under the direction of the President of the United States, to proceed in finishing them, however improper they may deem them for the purpose. He wished, on the contrary, to leave the Commissioners and the President at full liberty, either to go on with the present buildings, or to prepare others upon a more suitable and economical plan. Mr. Craik had no objection to this amendment, and it was accordingly car- ried. * * * [Senate proceedings of Apr. 12, 1798: Annals of Congress, 5 — 2, p. 539.] The Senate resumed the consideration of the report of the committee to whom was referred the bill, sent from the House of Representatives for concurrence, entitled “An act making an appropriation for completing the buildings requisite for the accom- modation of the Government of the United States at the city of Washington which report, having been amended, was adopted, and the bill was amended accordingly. On the question to agree to the final passage of the bill as amended, it was deter- mined in the affirmative — yeas, 17, nays 6, * * * Resolved, That this bill pass with amendments. [House proceedings of Apr. 13, 1798: Annals of Congress, 5 — 2, p. 1413.] CITY OF WASHINGTON. Mr. Craik, from the committee to whom was referred the amendments of the Senate to the bill providing an appropriation for completing the necessary buildings in the city of Washington, reported it as their opinion, that the amendments ought to be agreed to. The report was committed to a Committee of the Whole, and being made the order for this day, the House resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole on that subject. The Senate had struck out all the bill, except the enacting clause, and inserted in its place a provision for a loan of 100,000 dollars, which, together with the 200,000 dollars which have already been obtained on loan under the authority of the law in which Congress guarantees a loan for the city of Washington, make up the 300,000 dollars there authorized to be borrowed. The original bill, as sent from this House, proposed a grant of 200,000 dollars; but the chairman of the select committee (Mr. Craik) said, as he believed this was all that could be got at this time, he hoped the amendment would be agreed to. It was agreed to accordingly. [“An Act supplementary to an act, intituled ‘An act authorizing a loan for the use of the city of Washington, in the District of Columbia: and for other purposes therein mentioned,’” approved Apr. 18, 1798. (Stats, at Large, v. 1, 551.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the President of the United States be, and he hereby is, authorized to cause to be loaned to the commissioners appointed under the act, intituled “An act for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of the govern- ment of the United States,” the sum of one hundred thousand dollars, fifty thousand of which shall be advanced in the present year, and the remaining fifty thousand 84 Documentary History of the Capitol. shall be advanced in the year one thousand seven hundred and ninety-nine; at an interest of six per cent, per annum, to be computed upon each instalment, from the time it shall be advanced; which sum of one hundred thousand dollars is declared to be in full of the moneys which the said commissioners are now authorized to borrow, under the direction of the President of the United States, by virtue of the act, intituled “ A n act authorizing a loan for the use of the city of Washington, in the district of Columbia; and for other purposes therein mentioned.” Sec. 2. Be it further enacted, That the sum herein authorized to be borrowed shall be reimbursed by instalments of one-fifth part of said loan, and the interest thereon, commencing in the year one thousand eight hundred and five, and continuing annually thereafter till the whole shall be repaid; and all the lots in the city of Washington, now vested in the said commissioners, or in trustees, in any manner, for the use of the United States, and now remaining unsold, excepting those set apart for public purposes, shall be, and are hereby declared and made chargeable with the repayment of the sums which shall be advanced, in pursuance of this act, and the interest accruing thereon, and shall be disposed of in the manner, and under the regulations, prescribed by the act herein last mentioned. Sec. 3. And he it further enacted, That the sum of fifty thousand dollars for the present year, and of fifty thousand dollars for the next succeeding year, be, and hereby are, appropriated for the purposes aforesaid, out of any money in the treasury of the United States, not otherwise appropriated. [From the report of George Hadfield on the state of the Capitol, May 21, 1798. (5—2, House Ex. Docs.: Letter of Oliver Wolcott, Secretary of the Treasury, transmitting letter of the Commissioners of the City of Washington, communicated to the House May 29, 1798.)] REPORT OF THE PROGRESS MADE, ARP) THE WORK DONE IN THE BUILD TNG OF THE CAPITOL, FROM THE 18TH OF NOVEMBER LAST, TO THE 18 TH INSTANT, [MAY 1798;) ALSO OF THE MATERIALS ON HAND, PREPARED AND UNPREPARED. The free stone work on the outside is raised as high as the upper-part of the frieze in the principal order of the building, which is within nine feet of the whole intended height, so that the cornice and balustrade are only wanting to complete the elevation. All the interior walls are carried to their full height, and levelled for the reception of the roof timbers. The naked flooring in the building is entirely completed, except the floor over the Senate room. The roof is entirely framed, and a greater part of it already raised and set; the remainder is now raising with the utmost expe- dition, and will shortly be in its place on the building — the carcase, or shell of the building will then be fit to receive the interior finishing. The shingles to cover the roof are dressing, and a great part of the small timber for the interior is already prepared * * * [From the report of James Hoban, Superintendent of the Capitol, on the progress of that building from Nov. 18, 1798. (5—3, House Ex. Docs.: Letter of Oliver Wolcott, Secretary of the Treasury, accompanying letter of the Commissioners of the City of Washington, communicated to the House Dec. 11, 1798.)] Part of the roof has been framed, and the whole roof is now raised, boarded, shingled and painted. — The platforms to roof, water carriages and gutters are laid and leaded. The girders to floor over Senate chamber are trussed, the framing prepared, and now putting up. The ceiling joists are put up for plastering, in Representatives chamber, in the apartments for committees, in lobby, and in north and east vestibules. The Old Building. 85 The bridging joists are laid in north vestibule, and in three committee rooms ready for the floors. Part of the window frames and sashes are made, and the remainder are preparing. The doors are making for the entrances from the principal staircase and lobby to Senate chamber and committee rooms. The covering to eleptic staircase, to lobby and back staircase is finished ready for plastering. STONE WORK. Part of the cornice has been worked, and the whole of the cornice has been put up to the building. The zocolo, plinth, base and pedestals are all set for balustrade, and the balustrade finished to the east front. Tops prepared for six chimneys. Railing for balustrade prepared, 556 feet superficial. Ballusters prepared, 11. Free stone remaining on hand not wanted, 499 ton. BRICK WORK. All the external and internal walls and chimneys are carried up to their full height. The main sewer and sink, &c., to convey the water from the building is finished. Bricks remaining on hand, 30,000. PLANK AND TIMBER. 50,176 feet of northern clear pine on hand, from one to two inches thick, for floor- ing and inside finishing. 2,080 cubic feet of yellow pine timber for bridging joists. 40,000 shingles remaining on hand, not now wanted. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 5, 234: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Washington 17 th April 1799. Sir, We are called upon by the Superintendent of the Capitol for several Drawings of the Sections of the Capitol, without which he cannot progress with the Building. — We have looked over the original advertisement, under which you received the Premium for the plan of the Capitol, which evidently requires that the Author should furnish the necessary Drawings; and your letter of the 17th of November 1795, admits the principle. — We request the favor of you to let us know w r hether you will furnish the Drawings called for by Mr. Hoban’s letter, a copy of which is enclosed, and by what time. — We are, Sir, &c., G. Scott, A. White. Dr. Thornton. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 5, 235: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Washington, 18th April, 1799. Sir, We have before us your letter of the 13th inst., and enclose you a copy of Doct. Thornton’s letter to us on that subject. — We request that you will make the necessary Drawings, and lay them before the Board, as soon as conveniently you can. — We are, Sir, &c., G. Scott, A. White. Mr. James Hoban. 86 Documentary History of the Capitol. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 5, 303: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Washington, 25th Septr. 1795. Sir, We have the pleasure to inform you, that the Capitol is so far advanced as to authorise an expectation that it will be ready for the reception of Congress before the expiration of the present year, except the glazing, which cannot be so soon com- pleated, owing to the Glass imported for that purpose arriving in a state unfit for use. * * * Could we collect the Debts due from Morris and Greenleaf, we should be able to compleat all those Buildings and also the President’s House before the time appointed by Law for the removal of Congress. * * * We are, with sentiments, &c., G. Scott, W. Thornton, A. White. President of the United States, near Boston. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 5, 340: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, W'ar Department.] Washington, 21st Novr. 1799. Sir: The period at which the Government of the United States is to be transferred to its permanent Seat being near at hand; and only one session of Congress to be held previous to that event, we have deemed it proper to report to the President the state of the federal Seat, as well with respect to the public Buildings as the prospect of accommodation for the Members of Congress and others who must follow the Gov- ernment, that if he thinks it expedient to make any communication to Congress at the opening of the Session, on that subject, he may be possessed of the Documents. The present State of the Buildings and the means which the Commissioners possess towards compleating them, appear from the Enclosures, viz, Reports of the Superin- tendent of the State of each building, A — Accounts of Receipts and Expenditures from 18th May to 18t.h Novr. 1799, B — State of the funds, 18th Novr. 1799, C. — Esti- mate of the expense of finishing the President’s House, D. * * * The number and dimensions of the Rooms in the Capitol are stated in the Super- intendent’s Report, to enable Congress to judge of the sums necessary to appropriate for furnishing them. * * * We are, &c., W. Thornton, A. White. President of the United States. [From the third annual Address of President John Adams, Dec. 3, 1799. (“Messages and Papers of the Presidents, v. 1, 291.)] The act of Congress relative to the seat of the Government of the United States requiring that on the first Monday of December next it should be transferred from Philadelphia to the District chosen for its permanent seat, it is proper for me to inform you that the commissioners appointed to provide suitable buildings for the accommodation of Congress and of the President and of the public offices of the Government have made a report of the state of the buildings designed for those purposes in the city of Washington, from which they conclude that the removal of the seat of Government to take place at the time required will be practicable and the accommodation satisfactory. Their report wall be laid before you. The Old Building. 87 [Reports of James Hoban, Superintendent of the Capitol, on the progress of that building from Novem- ber 18, 1798, to November 18,1799. (6—1 State Papers, 1799-1800: Letter of Oliver Wolcott, Secretary of the Treasury, transmitting copies of two letters from the Commissioners of the city of Washing- ton, with sundry documents, communicated to the House December 5, 1799, pp. 8 and 15.)] No. 5. REPORT of James Hoban, superintendant of the Capitol, of the progress of that building from the 18th of November 1798, to the 18th of May 1799. Committee Room, No. 1, — 30 by 24 feet, Is ready for plastering; the window frames are put up, with trimmings, as backs, elbows, sopheats, and grounds for architraves; the doors trimmed with jamb linings, sopheats, and grounds framed to receive architraves, and grounds put up to receive base and sub-base. Committee Room, No. 2, — 30 by 35 feet, Finished as ditto. Committee Room, No. 3, — 22 by 35 feet, Finished as ditto. Committee Room, No. 4, — 31 by 35 feet, Finished as ditto. North Entrance, simi-eliptic, — 21 by 45 feet, The window frames are put up, the trimming for doors and windows are prepared and now putting up, and in a few days will be ready for plastering. Senate Chamber, — 18 by 86 feet, semi-eliptic. The window frames are all put up, except one, which is circular at top, and which is not yet finished; four of the columns are raised on the arcade, the ground work to receive the entablature is put up and fixed, and bracketing getting ready to receive the cornice; the girders, binding, bridging, and ceiling joists are all put up, and the trimmings for doors and windows three-fourths finished. East Entrance, — 27 by 36 feet. The trimmings for doors, as jamb linings, sopheats, and framed grounds are in hand, two-thirds prepared. Eliptic Stair Case, — 36 by 45 feet. The stuff for geometrical steps is provided, and that work commenced; the frames for doors, and grounds to receive architraves are put up. The Center Lobby, Is two thirds finished, the framing and grounds are prepared, but not put up. Representative Chamber. The window frames are all put up, but one, that is circular at top, in the first range, and the window frames for the second range, or attic windows are made, but not put up; the trimming for all the doors and windows of the first range is about three-fourths finished; the girders are trussed, and ready to put up for the galleries. The sashes are made for all the frames that are put up ; one half of the doors are made and wedged, ready to hang. STONE WORK. The balustrade on east front is finished ; 236 feet of rail worked for north and west fronts ; 103 balusters worked and turned, the whole set, and the balustrade on the north and west fronts finished ; 240 feet of astragal steps worked for east entrance, and the foundation carried up. The remainder of the chimney tops worked and set. PLASTERING. The scaffolding is up in the committee rooms numbered 1, 2, and 3, and part of the ceiling lathed ; about one-sixth of the mortar is made to finish the building. 88 Documentary History of the Capitol. PLUMBER. The plumber has laid the lead on the remainder of the west platform to roof, and cast lead for the inside gutters and water carriages. I am, Gentlemen, Your obedient servant, Signed, James Hoban. Washington, May 20, 1799. The Commissioners ] of the Federal Buildings) 30 square of flooring plank is prepared and ready to lay down. 18 square of flooring plank planed and jointed, the remainder preparing. No. 9. REPORT of James Hoban, Superintendant of the Capitol, of the state of that building on the 18th of November 1799, and the progress made since the 18th of May 1799. All the external and internal stone and brick work of the north wing of the Capitol, is carried up to the full height; the chimnies are finished and lightning rods put up and fixed; the gutters to roof, cistern and cess-pools are all leaded; the roof painted three coats, and sanded, and painted over the sanding. The Senate Chamber, — 86 by 48 feet, and 41 feet high, with its lobby and gallery are floored; the door- ways are trimmed with framed jamblinings, soffits and archi- traves; the windows, straight and circular, are trimmed with backs, elbows, soffits and architraves; the sashes are fitted to run double, with brass pullies, metal shieves and patent fastenings; the arcade piers, on a semi-eliptic plan, are trimmed with pannelled work, and the columns raised on the arcade, sixteen in number with two semi-pilasters to correspond, of the ancient ionic order, two feet three inches in diameter; the entablature is finished with stucco ornaments, and the walls and ceiling finished, two coats of mortar floated, and one coat of stucco; the sulley seats are framing, to form an amphitheatre one hundred and ten feet in circumference. The Representatives Chamber, — 86 by 35 feet, and thirty-six feet high, with its galleries are floored; the door- ways trimmed with framed jambs, soffits and archi- traves; the windows, straight and circular, with backs, elbows, soffits, pilasters, and architraves; the sashes fitted to run double, with brass pullies, metal shieves, and patent fastenings; the front to galleries is finished; the base and plinth, sub-base and cappings are all up, and the whole wood painted one coat. The cornice, walls, cove and ceiling are done in stucco, finishing. Committee Room, No. 1, — 30 by 24 feet, and 18 feet high, Committee Room, No. 2, — 30 by 35 feet, and 18 feet high, Committee Room, No. 3, — 22 by 35 feet, and 18 feet high, Committee Room, No. 4, — 31 by 35 feet, and 18 feet high, Committee Room, No. 5, — 21 by 40 feet, and 21 feet high, Are all floored; the door ways and windows trimmed; the sashes are fitted to run double; the walls and ceilings finished, and cornices done in stucco ornament; the wood-work, as architraves, base and plinth, sub-base and skirting, painted one coat. North Hall, — 21 by 45 feet, and 18 feet high, semi-eliptic; and East Hall, — 22 by 34 feet, and 18 feet high, are floored; the doors and windows trimmed; the sashes fitted to run double; the wood- work painted one coat; the walls and ceiling plastered; two coats of mortar floated, and one coat of stucco; the cornices are finished with stucco ornaments. Office for Clerk to the Senate, No. 1, — 22 by 34 feet, 21 feet high, Ditto Ditto Ditto, No. 2, — 22 by 34 feet, 14 feet high: The doors and windows are trimmed with jambs and soffits, backs and elbows; No. 1 The Old Building. 89 is plastered, both walls and ceiling, and the cornice finished in stucco; No. 2 is floored and the trimming up for plastering; all the sashes are fitted to run double, with pullies, shieves and fastenings. Office for Clerk to the Representatives, No. 1, — 30 by 24 feet, and 21 feet high, No. 2,-30 by 24 feet, and 14 feet high: The floors are laid, and trimmings up to the doors and windows; the sashes fitted to run double; the plastering of No. 1 is finished, and trimmings painted one coat. Principal staircase, on an eliptic plan, — 36 by 45 feet, and 56 feet high, receiving light from the top. The door-ways are all trimmed with framed jambs, grounds and soffits; the lantern is finished; the steps prepared geometrically, and ready to put up; the plastering to cove and walls is done, two coats of mortar floated, and one of stucco; the cornice and gollochi finished in stucco ornament. Back staircase, 10 by 24 feet, lighted from the top, is floored, the lantern finished; the platforms and quarter paces are up, and the steps ready to put up; the walls have been plastered one coat. Staircase leading to the clerk’s office, and roof circular, 12 feet diameter, is partitioned and lathed; the landings floored, and the steps preparing to put up. Clerk’s Office, — 86 by 48 feet, and 14 feet high: The floor is laid; the windows and doors trimmed, and ceiling plastered. Chamber in Attic Story, — 21 by 40 feet is floored, doors and windows trimmed, and sashes finished and fitted. Anti-Chamber to Senate, — 22 by 38 feet, and 18 feet high: The door- ways are all trimmed with framed jambs and soffits, which with the anti-chamber to the House of Representatives, receives light from the top, and is 22 by 38 feet and 36 feet high; the lantern is finished; the trimmings to all the doors are up and painted one coat, as framed jambs, and soffits; the ceiling, cove and cornice finished in stucco. The Superintendant further reports, that the carpenters and joiners now employed at the Capitol, would finish that building completely by the first day of February 1800; but as the work is coming to a finish, not more than half the hands can be employed after the first of January next; also that the plasterers now employed, can finish the work to be done in three weeks from this day. Signed, James Hob an. Washington, 18th November 1799. [From the Address of the House of Representatives to John Adams, President of the United States, Dec. 9, 1799. ("Messages and Papers of the Presidents,” v. 1, 295.)] The buildings for the accommodation of Congress and of the President and for the public offices of the Government at its permanent seat being in such a state as to admit of a removal to that District by the time prescribed by the act of Congress, no obstacle, it is presumed, will exist to a compliance with the law. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 5, 409: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Washington S2d April 1800 Gentl”. The Board request the favor of you to attend at the Capitol this after- noon at 3 O’Clock, with Mr. Lenox & Mr. Smallwood, and to view the several Breaches in the plastering of that building, and to report to us your opinion of the Work, and also what parts of it in your opinion, have been injured by the carpenters, or by the laying of the floors. We are, &c., Messrs. Densley & Lisle. G. Scott, W. Thornton. 90 Documentary History of the Capitol. [“An Act to make further provision for the removal and accommodation of the Government of the United States,” approved Apr. 24, 1800. (Stats, at Large, v. 2, 55.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Represenalives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the President of the United States shall be, and hereby is, authorized and empowered to direct the various offices belonging to the execu- tive departments of the United States, to be removed to the city of Washington, at any time that he shall judge proper, after the adjournment of the present session of Congress, and before the time heretofore appointed by law for such removal. * * * Sec. 3. And be it further enacted, That for the suitable accommodation of Congress, at the city of Washington, the secretaries of the four executive departments, or any three of them, shall be, and hereby are, authorized and directed to cause suitable furniture to be forthwith provided for the apartments, which are to be occupied in the capitol, at the said city, by the two houses, respectively, and for the offices and committee rooms of each; and to cause the said apartments, offices, and committee rooms to be furnished in a suitable manner, so as to be ready for the reception of Congress on the day fixed by law for the removal of the government to the said city; and that for defraying the expenses incident to the furnishing of the said apartments, offices, and committee rooms, and to the removal of the books, papers, and records, belonging to the said offices, respectively, there shall be, and hereby is, appropriated a sum not exceeding nine thousand dollars. Sec. 4. And be it f urther enacted, That for the greater convenience of the members of both houses of Congress in attending their duty in the said city of Washington, and the greater facility of communication between the various departments and offices of the government, there shall be made footways in the said city, in suitable places and directions; and that the said footways shall be made by the commissioners of the said city, under the direction of the secretaries of the four executive depart- ments of the United States, who, or any three of whom, shall forthwith take order therefor, and in such manner, at such places, and in such directions, as they or any three of them shall judge most proper for the purposes aforesaid, and shall appoint; and that if the said secretaries, or any three of them, shall find, on examination, that there is not in the hands of the said commissioners a sum sufficient for making the said footways, over and above what may have been destined by the said commis- sioners, or may, in the opinion of the said secretaries, or any three of them, be neces- sary for the accomplishment of other objects necessary for the accommodation of the government, or its removal as afoi'esaid, then the said secretaries, or any three of them, shall be, and hereby are, authorized and required to draw out of the Treasury of the United States, and apply to the purpose of making the said footways, any sum which may be necessary therefor, not exceeding ten thousand dollars; which sum is hereby appropriated for the said purpose. And all the lots in the city of Wash- ington, now vested in the said commissioners, or in trustees, in any manner for the use of the United States, and now remaining unsold, excepting those set apart for public purposes, shall be, and are hereby, declared and made chargeable with the repayment of the said sum of ten thousand dollars, which shall be advanced in pur- suance of this act, and the interest accruing thereon. Sec. 5. And be it f urther enacted, That for the purchase of such books as may be necessary for the use of Congress at the said city of Washington, and for fitting up a suitable apartment for containing them and for placing them therein, the sum of five thousand dollars shall be, and hereby is, appropriated ; and that the said pur- chase shall be made by the Secretary of the Senate and Clerk of the House of Repre- sentatives, pursuant to such directions as shall be given, and such catalogue as shall be furnished by a joint committee of both houses of Congress to be appointed for that purpose; and that the said books shall be placed in one suitable apartment in the capitol in the said city, for the use of both houses of Congress and the members The Old Building. 91 thereof, according to such regulations as the committee aforesaid shall devise and establish. Sec. 6. And be it further enacted, That the several appropriations aforesaid shall be paid out of any moneys in the treasury of the United States not otherwise appro- priated. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 5, 412: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Washington, 28th April 1800. Sir. We request to see you tomorrow morning at ten Oclock at the Commissioners Office, that the necessary arrangements may be made for the completion of the plastering and Stucco Work at the Capitol, by you or some other person, as we cannot suffer it to be longer delayed. — We are, Sir, &e., G. Scott, W. Thornton. Mr. John Kearney. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 5, 443: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] City of Washington, July 9th 1800 Sir, After every Rain, fresh leaks are observed in the lead-work of the Capitol, and we have so repeatedly sent Persons to endeavour to find out the Leaks that we see no end to this business. The walls are in many places exceedingly injured. The plaster in some places falling off, and we fear the Building will be in every respect so damaged by a further delay in compleatly correcting the lead-work, that we desire, you will examine, in the most minute manner, every part of it, and render it Water-tight. If you should not do it effectually, we shall be under the necessity of enforcing the ful- filment of yr. Engagement, by a law suit. We are, Sir, &c., G. Scott, W. Thornton. Mr. John Emory. [From the fourth annual Address of President John Adams. (Senate proceedings of November 22, 1800: Annals of Congress, 0 — 2, p. 722.)] Gentlemen of the Senate , and Gentlemen of the House of Representatives: Immediately after the adjournment of Congress at their last session in Philadel- phia, I gave directions, in compliance with the laws, for the removal of the public offices, records, and property. These directions have been executed, and the public officers have since resided and conducted the ordinary business of the Government in this place. I congratulate the people of the United States on the assembling of Congress at the permanent seat of their Government; and I congratulate you, gentlemen, on the prospect of a residence not to be changed. Although there is cause to apprehend that accommodations are not now so complete as might be wished, yet there is great reason to believe that this inconvenience will cease with the present session. It would be unbecoming the Representatives of this nation to assemble, for the first time, in this solemn temple, without looking up to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, and imploring his blessing. May this Territory be the residence of virtue and happiness! In this city may that piety and virtue, that wisdom and magnanimity, that constancy and self- government which adorned the great character whose name it bears, be forever held 92 Documentary History of the Capitol. in veneration! Here, and throughout our country, may simple manners, pure morals, and true religion, flourish forever! It is with you, gentlemen, to consider whether the local powers over the District of Columbia, vested by the Constitution in the Congress of the United States, shall be immediately exercised. If, in your opinion, this important trust ought now to be executed, you cannot fail, while performing it, to take into view the future probable situation of the Territory for the happiness of which you are about to pro- vide. You will consider it as the Capital of a great nation, advancing, with unex- ampled rapidity, in arts, in commerce, in wealth, and in population; and possessing, within itself, those energies and resources which, if not thrown away, or lamentably misdirected, will secure to it a long course of prosperity and self-government. [Senate proceedings of November 26, 1800: Annals of Congress, 6 — 2, p. 727.] Mr. Tkacy reported, from the committee yesterday appointed for the purpose, that they had waited on the President of the United States, and that he would receive the Address of the Senate this day, at 12 o’clock, at his own house. Whereupon, the Senate waited on the President of the United States accordingly: and the President of the Senate, in their name, presented the Address yesterday agreed to. To which the President made the following reply: Mr. President and Gentlemen of the Senate: For this excellent Address, so respectful to the memory of my illustrious predeces- sor, which I receive from the Senate of the United States, at this time, and in this place, with peculiar satisfaction, I pray you to accept of my unfeigned acknowledg- ments. With you, I ardently hope, that permanence and stability will be commu- nicated as well as to the Government itself, as to its beautiful and commodious seat. With you I deplore the death of that hero and sage who bore so honorable and efficient a part in the establishment of both. Great indeed would have been my gratification, if his sum of earthly happiness had been completed by seeing the Gov- ernment thus peaceably convened at this place, himself at its head. But, while we submit to the decision of Heaven, whose councils are inscrutable to us, we cannot but hope, that the members of Congress, the officers of Government, and all who inhabit the city or the country will retain his virtues in lively recollection, and make his patriotism, morals, and piety, models for imitation. I thank you, gentlemen, for your assurance that the several subjects for legislative consideration, recommended in my communication to both Houses, shall receive from the Senate a deliberate and candid attention. With you, gentlemen, I sincerely deprecate all spirit of innovation which may weaken the sacred bond that connects the different parts of this nation and Govern- ment; and with you I trust, that, under the protection of Divine Providence, the wisdom and virtue of our citizens will deliver our national compact unimpaired to a free, prosperous, happy and grateful posterity. To this end it is my fervent prayer, that, in this city, the fountains of wisdom may be always open, and the streams of eloquence forever flow. Here may the youth of this extensive country forever look up without disappointment, not only to the monuments and memorials of the dead, but to the examples of the living, in the members of Congress and officers of Gov- ernment, for finished models of all those virtues, graces, talents, and accomplish- ments, which constitute the dignity of human nature, and lay the only foundation for the prosperity or duration of empires. John Adams. City of Washington, Nov. 26, 1800. 1 L ‘ C_ITY « ' ^V’SaCSI e/rr§E3F!E0? L. V ! ' r . r/r-F ^n@BBBrA> > -JF N^Brar |= ^ifcs. J -*ii^ 0 l 3 B’<' Frm 'ttf! Tr> Pi: S<£ r- /rv ^FF-rr-FTr ^ r^r^r^rRPB rtf mrr fpin n l&r rri>rrngfFcr; c % ^nrrrr: ' Fc^PiF /l/’Fr ‘'d''l by the. Stui,., 0 f ( ^ FF a,ul Matiyi/ /FEf rr-FT-rr p (Pppprrrrr rrr ^r-r±rFrrrrrrrrrrr r ~ ' rrrr-rrrrrrrr . rrEPFrrrrrrnn^ r-rrrrrrrPE.^FR r- F r-rrrrrrrr r ^r : rT -rWFrrrr!?,RRF'FP-[F/rv.~^r.rrrr-j;rp|-^/ ~ rrr r r ® ^-rrrrr.r. -"Frr rrrFT/ . .s=*,-i«&2 BHBff- TTFi~BrrF r FFrrrC[ ' """ 3 «ic1^^ R .' p-'VFrrrrr^-rrr/P': lPF ■••.*»¥•' Brrr.prrF'r^nr «^r|_ £^'';^uuaadutiuu(&j L f3. *• rrrs~f\ , FrCrr-F rr F^F"fe^/;[ rT^hF' r Frrr r rfT'^ rr r\r tg iw r rtfr r r n nr r~ r cr j-r r~ .•%» 7 r rr rrrrrrr /! J , Vr"rr, — rr rr :*S •^S^rrrrr rrFtv ^-11 r r~ nr err rr nr / rr rvfNv^ r tr • *fc f~ f — i — r^ vr>^- r^\ r r • y # ' * «a rrrrr/r r ^ \ ■ ■ irrr-r/n'FrrF,,,,, . •ivFr rr r rr r wu rr m, Fr/'Frrrr r/?^*fe®a ^r'rfiFFrrr/ c.r t rrr^ r# / ■ ?m pFr/ ( !■! ■■ , £\ : Irrrr/' 'V) F ;C|| fe r ff| F it ,£#F .: 'Frrr'Fr.FFPp-^r .--"FFpF-lPPr V.FFt ' Crrr rrr j 6'C Irel trifle, mid * The Old Building. 93 [From the reports of James Hoban, Superintendent of the Capitol, on the progress of that building from November 18, 1799 to November 18, 1800. (6 — 2, House Ex. Docs.: Letter of Oliver Wolcott, Secretary of the Treasury, accompanying letters of the Commissioners of the city of Washington, communi- cated to the House December 12, 1800, pp. 4 and 16.)] REPORT of James Hoban, Superintendant of the Capitol, of the state of that building on the 8th of May 1800, and the progress made since the 18th of November 1799. Of the finishing the north wing of the Capitol, the following works remain to be done, viz. joiner’s work. The hand rail to put up to center lobby, and hand rail to gallery of Senate room. The hand rail to work, and put up to back stair case, circular. The sashes to be hung, and locks put on the doors. Six chimney pieces made, to be put up. Seats elevated with steps for President of the Senate, and Speaker of the House of Representatives. Floors to be raised for chairs and desks for Members of the Senate, and House of Representatives. Nine chimney pieces to be made and put up. Borders to put round all the hearths. Hand rail and ballusters to put up to stair case, south-west angle of the building. STUCCO AND PLASTERING. Eight columns to be finished, Cases, shafts and capitals, arcades above the impost and soffits, trusses, to four windows, to be done. Back stair-case, circular, to be plastered. PAINTING AND GLAZING. The finishing coat of painting to be done, lantern sash to elliptic stair case to be glazed, and soffit ornamented. STONE CUTTING. Hearths to set to ten fire places. * * # Report of James Hoban, Superintendant of the Capitol, on the state of that build- ing on the 18th of November 1800, and of the work done since the 18th of May last. In the north wing of the Capitol, which is now finished, the following work has been done, viz. The hand-rail and ballusters have been put up in centre lobby and gallery of the Senate chamber; the hand rail, ballusters and noseings have been worked and put up to circular stair-case in south-east angle of the building; hand-rail and ballusters put up to stair-case in south-west angle; the sashes, doors and window shutters have been all hung and locks put on all thedoors; the fire places are finished, with chimney pieces and hearths of cut stone, and platforms raised for chairs and desks in Senate chamber, and House of Representatives. STUCCO AND PLASTERING. Eight of the columns in the Senate chamber have been finished, bases, shafts, and capitals; the arcade has been finished above the impost, with circular soffets, 94 Documentary History of the Capitol. mouldings, &c. Four windows are finished with fancy trusses, cornices, circular ornaments, goloss, &c. and the circular stair-case in the south-east angle of the build- ing plastered. PAINTING AND GLAZING. The whole of the painting has been finished ; the lantern sash to eliptic stair-case has been glazed and the soffet ornamented. James Hoban. Washington, November 19th, 1800. [Mss.: Letters of the Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds of the City of Washington and District of Columbia, v. 6, 51: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Commissioner’s Office, 20th January 1801 Gentlemen: As no House has been provided for the Judiciary of the United States, we hope the Supreme Court may be accommodated with a Room in the Capitol to hold its Sessions, till further provision shall be made, an arrangement however, which we would not presume to make without the approbation of Congress. We therefore request, that the Sense of that Body may be communicated to us on the Subject. We are, &c. , W. Thornton, A. White, W. Cranch. The Honble. the President of the Senate, & Speaker of the House of Representatives of the United States. (Copy sent to each) [Senate proceedings of Jan. 21, 1801: Senate Journal, 6 — 2,116.] The Vice-President communicated a letter from the Commissioners of the City of Washington, addressed to both Houses of Congress, requesting the assignment of a room in the Capitol for the temporary accommodation of the supreme judicial court of the United States, which was read. Whereupon, Resolved, That the Secretary be directed to inform the commissioners of the City of Washington that the Senate consent to the accommodation of the supreme court in one of the committee rooms, as proposed in their letter. [House proceedings of January 23, 1801: House Journal, 6 — 2, p. 771.] Mr. Rutledge, from the committee to whom was referred, on the twentieth instant, the letter from the Commissioners of the city of Washington relative to the accom- modation of the Supreme Court of the United States in the Capitol, made a report; which was read and considered: Whereupon, Resolved, That leave be given to the Commissioners of the city of Washington to use one of the rooms on the first floor of the Capitol for holding the present session of the Supreme Court of the United States. . Kep. 040 — Ob-Z. n VIEW OF CAPITOL WHEN FIRST OCCUPIED BY CONGRESS, 1800. The Old Building. 95 [American State Papers, Class X, Misc., v. I, 243. — No. 145. 6th Congress, 2d Session. City of Wash- ington. Communicated to the House of Representatives, February 27, 1801.] Mr. Griswold, from the committee who were appointed to inquire into the expendi- ture of money made by the commissioners of the city of Washington, the disposition of public property made by them, and generally into all the transactions of the com- missioners which relate to the trust confided to them by the President of the United States, made the following report: That the short period which has elapsed since they have been possessed of the documents relating to the transactions of the commissioners, the imperfect situation of those documents in several particulars, and the complicated nature of the inquiry, will prevent the committee from presenting to the House that full view of the subject which was desired. They deem, it, however, their duty to submit the result of their inquiry, so far as the same has been made. By a general account of receipts and expenditures, hereunto annexed, it appears that the commissioners have expended more than one million of dollars on various subjects, which are partially detailed in that statement. Whether those expendi- tures have been made with economy, or not, it is not necessary for the committee to decide, as the House will possess the same information which the committee possess on this point. It may, however, be proper to remark that the principal objects of expense have been the Capitol, the President’s house, and the two buildings erected for the accommodation of the Executive Departments; and that the situation of those buildings, being under the eye of every member of the Legislature, cannot want a particular description. * * * The view which the committee have taken of this subject has been necessarily imperfect, but it has satisfied them that, as the Executive Departments of the Gov- ernment are now established at the city of Washington, the expense of the board of commissioners may very well be saved; that the business of that board may with propriety be transferred to the Treasury Department ; and that it will be proper to require that the commisioners account with the accounting officers of the Treasury for the moneys received and expended by them. The committee likewise believe that a plan of the city of Washington ought to be prepared, and, at the next session of Congress, to receive the sanction of the Legis- lature, and means taken to obtain from the trustees a deed of the streets and public grounds, conformably to such plan, for the use of the United States; and that a law ought to pass for quieting titles in the District of Columbia, by authorizing the sale of lands contracted to be sold where the purchase money shall not be paid within the time limited for payment. Conformably to the opinions herein expressed, the committee respectfully submit to the House the following resolutions; Resolved, That a committee be appointed to prepare and report a bill to abolish the board of commissioners of the city of Washington, and to direct that the business of that board be transferred to the Department of the Treasury. Resolved, That a committee be appointed to prepare and report a bill directing the Secretary of the Treasury, under direction of the President of the United States, to prepare a plan of the city of Washington, delineating the streets, squares, and public grounds therein, and to report the same to Congress, in December next. Resolved, That a committee be appointed to prepare and report a bill to authorize the sale of lands in the District of Columbia, under proper regulations, to raise the moneys which may at any time be due and unpaid on contracts for the sale of such lands. 96 Documentary History of the Capitol. Account of receipts and expenditures by the commissioners of the city of Washington, Dis- trict of Columbia, from the time of their appointment to the 18th of May, 1796; since which day accounts have been rendered half yearly. Dr. Cr. Receipts. Amount received. Expendi- tures. Amount, 1791. Amount, 1792. Amount, 1793. Amount, 1791. Amount, 1795. Amo u n t. be- tween IstJan., 1796, and 18th May, 1796. Total amount. Donation by the State of Virginia. Donation by the State of Mary- land. Sales of lots Loan from the Bank of Colum- bia. Leonard Har- baugh, refunded by him for part of the cost of the stone bridge over Rock creek, in consequence of defective work. John Dobson re- funded, for part of sums ad- vanced to him as a contractor for doing free- stone work at the Capitol. Materials sold, which were un- tit for use, or not wanted for the public buildings. Dividends on shares in Bank of Columbia, originally sub- scribed for by the commissioners. Receipts for semi- annual accounts rendered. $120,000 00 72.000 00 179,109 91 30.000 00 600 00 1,810 81 917 62 1,823 50 610,905 52 $1,017,167 36 Capitol ... ***** $8,950 71 $25, 857 86 $61,101 16 $9, 456 20 $105,365 93 Commissioners’ Office, Washington, February 6, 1801. Thomas Monroe, Clerk Com. [Mss.: Letters of the Presidents of the United States, p. 121: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] On consideration of the three plans presented by Capt. Hobens for providing an apartment for the H. of Representatives of the U. S. that appears to me most to be approved which proposes to raise, to the height of one story only, the elliptical wall or arcade in the Southern wing destined ultimately for their occupation; without carrying up at present the external square wall which to include it. It seems preferable to that which proposes a temporary room of scantling in the center, to cost between 4, & 5000. D. the whole of which would be to be taken away in future, & nothing saved but what the scantling might then be worth, whereas, of the elliptical room thought preferable, & which he supposes will cost 5600. D. he thinks not more than 1000. D. will be lost when the wing shall be completed in The Old Building. 97 future: and it seems desireable that whatever money is expended should go as much as possible to the execution of the permanent building. The plan of raising the elliptical building only one story seems preferable to that for raising it two stories. 1st because it will cost but half as much — a circumstance desirable to the present state of the City funds & to their immediate prospects; 2, Mr. Hobens observes there will be considerable inconveniences in carrying up the elliptical wall now without the square one, & the square one in future without the elliptical wall, and that these difficulties increase as the walls get higher. This obstacle then is lessened more than one half by raising the elliptical wall to one half of it’s height only. Another advantage in adopting the elliptical building is that, if before it is raised one story the prospects of money should brighten & the difficulties of proceeding with it separately from the square wall should be found less than has been appre- hended, we can then proceed to raise it’s second story. Tir. Jefferson, June 3d , 1801. The Commissioners of the City of Washington. [Annals of Congress, Appendix 7 — 2, p. 1294.] Commissioners’ Office, Dec. 4, 1801. To the President of the United Slates: The memorial of the Commissioners appointed by virtue of an act of Congress, entitled “An act for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of Government of the United States, respectfully showeth: That, on the 28th of January last, the Commissioners aaaressea to me late Presi- dent of the United States a representation, stating such facts respecting the business committed to their charge as appeared necessary for the information of the Govern- ment; which representation was by him transmitted to Congress, and by their order referred to a committee; but no measures having taken place in consequence thereof, either by the Executive or Legislature, your memorialists deem it expedient to reca- pitulate the most important facts then stated, and to add such other facts and obser- vations as may tend to enable the President to judge of the measures proper to be pursued by him, and to aid the Legislature in their deliberations, should the subject be submitted to their consideration. The act of Congress authorizing the President to locate a district for the perma- nent seat of the Government of the United States; the actual location of that district; the grant of lands for a federal city; the power given by the President to the Com- missioners to sell that part of the land so granted, which was placed at his disposal; the sale of six thousand lots to Morris & Greenleaf, by agreement, dated 23d Decem- ber, 1793; the modification of that agreement by another, entered into in April, 1794; the failure of those gentlemen to fulfil their contracts, and the various meas- ures pursued to obtain money to carry on the public buildings, are recited in the above mentioned representation; and copies of the Legislative acts, deeds, and other writings therein referred to are annexed, and the whole printed for the use of the members of Congress. The property belonging to the public is therein stated to consist of twenty-four million six hundred and fifty-five thousand seven hundred and thirty-five square feet of ground in the City of Washington, equal to four thou- sand six hundred and eighty-two lots, of five thousand two hundred and sixty-five square feet each, exclusive of lots which bind on navigable water; these form fronts to the extent of two thousand and fort}’ -three feet, and on them are four wharves in a useful state. Of the first mentioned lots, three thousand one hundred and seventy- eight lie northeast of Massachusetts avenue; the remainder, being one thousand five H. Rep. 646 7 98 Documentary History of the Capitol. hundred and four, are situated southwest of that avenue; also, an island, containing freestone, in Aquia Creek, in the State of Virginia. The above property your memorialists consider as worthy of public attention; its value may be estimated by the prices at which lots have been heretofore sold, the cost of the wharves, and the price of the island. * * * Your memorialists also beg leave to state, that the sum of fifty thousand dollars, in the United States six jier cent, stock, has been borrowed from the State of Maryland, to be repaid on the 1st of November, 1802, secured by the bond of the Commissioners, and real and personal security given by private persons. The only fund applicable to the payment of this sum at the disposal of the President or Com- missioners is, the debts contracted for city lots purchased previous to passing the guar- anty law; this fund is, indeed, much more than sufficient, could those debts be called in; to accomplish which, your memorialists have never ceased their exertions. They are now pursuing a measure not before attempted — a ready money sale, in which, if they fail to sell the property for as much as is due thereon to the public, the same policy should dictate to the Government to pay the sum of fifty thousand dollars likewise; the last-mentioned debts, to a much greater amount, being ulti- mately secure. The Commissioners have only received fifty-three thousand two hundred and eigthy-one dollars and eighty-one cents from the sales of property pledged by virtue of the guaranty law; they have paid, in conformity to that law, the sum of twenty- nine thousand six hundred and eighty-seven dollars and ninety-two cents, to the original proprietors, for property appropriated to public use, and forty-two thousand dollars interest, which has accrued on money borrowed under the sanction of the same law. Thus, the sum of eighteen thousand four hundred and six dollars and eleven cents, derived from the funds applicable to the payment of debts contracted on the personal security of the Commissioners, has been applied to the purposes of the guaranty, and thereby the necessity of selling at depreciated rates the property pledged to Congress has been avoided. Your memorialists would also observe, that the debts due, and to become due, to the city fund, and which were considered as good, were stated in the last represen- tation to the President at one hundred and forty-four thousand one hundred and twenty dollars and eighty cents. Since which, forty-six thousand and eighty-one dollars and ninety-nine cents have been received; but it may be observed, that the sum of eighty thousand dollars, which, by the agreement of April, 1794, was to rest on the bond of Morris, Greenleaf, and Nicholson, is not included in that- description although your memorialists are advised by their counsel that certain squares in the City of Washington, containing one thousand lots, are liable to the payment of that sum; the same being designated by an agreement of the 9th July, 1794, as the lots, the payment for which Avas to rest on the said bond; and this point is now depend- ing for decision in the court of chancery of the State of Maryland. To show the progress and the present state of buildings in the city, your memorial- ists ha\ r e had the number of dwelling-houses takeu, and find, by an accurate report, that, on the 15th of May, 1800, there were one hundred and nine of brick, and two hundred and sixty-three of wood; and, on the 15th of last month, there Avas an addi- tion of eighty-four of brick, and one hundred and fifty-one of wood, besides se\'enty- nine of brick, and thirty- five of Avood, in an unfinished state; total amount, seven hundred and thirty-five. Their particular situations will appear from the schedule which accompanies this memorial. The above statement of facts and observations are, with sentiments of the highest respect, submitted to the President of the United States. William Thornton, Alexander White, Tristram Dalton. The Old Building. 99 Treasury Department, .Tan. 15, 1802. * * * It is sincerely believed, and most respectfully submitted, that no act of Govern- ment can more effectually tend to increase the external force, or to strengthen the internal union of the United States than a prompt and complete extinguishment of the public debt; and that every measure should be avoided, which may lead to an unnecessary perpetuation or prolongation of any part of the same. In this instance there can be no doubt that the resources of the United States are fully equal to discharge in specie the five annual instalments, of forty thousand dol- lars each, which may eventually be payable on that loan, without having recourse to the expedient of creating, for that purpose, an additional six per cent, stock, to that amount. Under that impression, the Secretary, with submission, but without hesitation, reports, that although the resolution of the Legislature of Maryland was evidently adopted only with a view of accommodating the United States, it cannot, in his opinion, be their interest to avail themselves of the offer it contains. All of which is respectfully submitted. Albert Gallatin. [From the reports of James Hoban, Superintendent of the President’s House and the Capitol, of work done on the Capitol from Nov. 18, 1800, to December 14, 1801. (V— 1, House Ex. Docs.: Letter from Albert Gallatin, Secretary of the Treasury, covering two letters from the City Commissioners of Washington, communicated Dec. 21, 1801, pp. 22 and 24.) ] Report of James Hoban , superintendant of the President’s House, of work done, from the 18th of November, 1800, to the 18th of May, 1801. * * * CAPITOL. The platforms round the lantern sashes have been papered, tarred and sanded; and all the external and internal gutters have been tarred and sanded. * * * (Signed) James Hoban. Washington, May 19th, 1801. Report of James Hoban, Superintendant of the Capitol, of the ivork done at that Building from the 18th of May, 1801, to the 14th December, 1801. Eliptic Room, South Wing, 70 by 94 feet. The Eliptic Room has been carried up 2 feet 8 inches high, 44 bricks thick, and 16 feet higher, 34 bricks thick, with 16 niches and 16 arches, to form an arcade. The girder and joist have been laid and floored, the building roofed, boarded and shingled, the ceiling covered, the walls and ceiling plaistered. The window frames and sashes, door frames and doors, finished. A Gallery, on a semi-eliptic plan, has been put up, 120 feet long, with three rows of seats. A covered way has been built, 145 feet long, from the north to the south wing, with two flights of steps, and three water closets. (Signed) James Hoban. The Commissioners of the Federal Buildings. (Copy.) (Signed) Thomas Munroe, Clk. Comm’rs. 100 Documentary History of the Capitol. [Senate proceedings of Jan. 11, 1802: Annals of Congress, 7 — 1, v. 7, pt. 1, p. 42.] MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT. Gentlemen of the Senate, and of the House of Representatives: I now communicate to you a memorial of the Commissioners of the City of Wash- ington, together with a letter of later date, which, with the memorial of January 28, 1801, will possess the Legislature fully of the state of the public interests and of those of the City of Washington confided to them. The moneys now due, and soon to become due, to the State of Maryland, on the loan guarantied by the United States, call for an early attention. The lots in the city which are chargeable with the pay- ment of these moneys are deemed not only equal to the indemnification of the public, but to insure a considerable surplus to the city, to be employed for its improvement; provided they are offered for sale only in sufficient numbers to meet the existing demand. But the act of 1796 requires that they shall be positively sold in such numbers as shall be necessary for the punctual payment of the loans. Nine thou- sand dollars of interest are lately become due; three thousand dollars quarter-yearly will continue to become due; and fifty thousand dollars, an additional loan, are reim- bursable on the first day of November next. These sums would require sales so far beyond the actual demand of the market, that it is apprehended that the whole property may lie thereby sacrificed, the public security destroyed, and the residuary interest of the city entirely lost. Under these circumstances I have thought it niv duty, before I proceed to direct a rigorous execution of the law, to submit the sub- ject to the consideration of the Legislature. Whether the public interest will be better secured in the end, and that of the city saved, by offering sales commensurate only to the demand at market, and advancing from the Treasury, in the first instance, what these may prove deficient, to be replaced by subsequent sales, rests for the determination of the Legislature. If indulgence for the funds can be admitted, they will probably form a resource of great and permanent value; and their embarrass- ments have been produced only by overstrained exertions to provide accommoda- tions for the Government of the Union. Th: Jefferson. January 11, 1802. [American State Papers, Class X, Mise., v. I, 260. No. 153. 7th Congress, 1st Session. City of Wash- ington. Communicated to the House of Representatives, February 12, 1802.] Mr. Nicholson made the following report: The committee, to whom was referred the message of the President of the United States of the 11th ultimo, transmitting a memorial of the commissioners of the city of Washington; and to whom was likewise referred a resolution of the House of Representatives of the 5th instant, directing the committee to inquire into the expediency of discontinuing the offices of the said com- missioners, beg leave to report the following resolutions for the consideration of the House: 1. Resolved, That from and after the 1st day of March next, the offices of two of the commissioners of the city of Washington ought to be discontinued, and thereafter the powers now vested in the board of commissioners ought to be vested in one only, who ought to discharge all the duties now required to be performed by the whole number. 2. Resolved, That prior to the 1st day of March next, the said commissioners ought to settle their accounts with the accounting officers of the Treasury; and all debts which have been contracted by them in their capacity as commissioners, and for the payment of which no particular provision is hereinafter made, ought to be discharged in the usual manner by the commissioner retained. 3. Resolved, That so many of those lots in the city of Washington which are pledged for the repay- ment of a loan of two hundred thousand dollars, made by the State of Maryland in the years 1796 and 1797, to the commissioners of the said city, ought to be annually sold, as may be sufficient to pay the interest and installments of the said loan, as they may respectively become due: provided, that if, in the opinion of the President of the United States, the sale of a sufficient number of the said lots, to meet the objects aforesaid, cannot be made without an unwarrantable sacrifice of the property, then so much money as may be necessary to provide for the deficiency ought to be advanced from the Treasury of the United States. 4. Resolved, That so many of the lots in the said city which were sold prior to the 6th day of May, in the year 1796, and have reverted to the commissioners, in consequence of a failure on the part of the purchasers to comply with their contracts, ought to be sold, as will be sufficient to pay to the The Old Building. 101 State of Maryland the sum of fifty thousand dollars, with the interest thereon, on or before the 1st day of November next; which sum was loaned by the said State to the commissioners aforesaid, in the year 1799: provided that, if in the opinion of the President of the United States, the sale of a suffi- cient number of the said lots, to meet the objects aforesaid, cannot be made without an unwarrant- able sacrifice of the property, then so much money as may be necessary to provide for the deficiency ought to be advanced out of the Treasury of the United States. 5. Resolved , That all moneys advanced out of the Treasury of the United States, in pursuance of these resolutions, ought to be reimbursed as soon as possible, after the debts already contracted by the commissioners have been discharged, by applying towards the reimbursement every sum of money which may be afterwards raised out of the city funds, until the whole of the money advanced shall be repaid. [Annals of Congress, Appendix 7 — 2, p. 1312.] Commissioners’ Office, March 23, 1802. Sir: We are favored with your letter of the 20th instant, and, in compliance with your request, shall state the principal facts on which you desire information. Major L’Enfant’s plan of the city was sent to the House of Representatives on the 13th day of December, 1791, by President Washington, for the information of the House, and afterwards withdrawn. Many alterations were made therefrom by Major Ellicott, with the approbation of the President, and under his authority; all the appropriations (except as to the Capitol and President’s House) were struck out, and the plan, thus altered, sent to the engravers, intending that work, and the promulgation thereof, to give the final and regulating stamp. These changes from L’Enfant’s plan took place in the year 1792, and the published plan appears to have been engraved in October of that year. It has since been pursued in all the opera- tions of the city, under the direction of the Commissioners, as far as it was practi- cable; but the city not having been surveyed, and this plan being partly made from the draughts of L’Enfant, and partly from materials possessed by Ellicott, it was probable it would not correspond with an actual mensuration. * * * We are, with sentiments of respect, sir, your obedient servants, William Thornton, Alexander White, Tristram Dalton. The Hon. John Dennis, Chairman uf a Committee of Congress. [“AN ACT to abolish the Board of Commissioners in the City of Washington, and for other pur- approved May 1, 1802. (Stats, at Large, v. 2, 175.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled , That from and after the first day of June next, the offices of the commissioners appointed in virtue of an act passed on the sixteenth day of July, in the year seventeen hundred and ninety, intituled “An act to establish the tempo- rary and permanent seat of the Government of the United States,” shall cease and determine; and the said commissioners shall deliver up unto such person as the President shall appoint, in virtue of this act, all plans, draughts, books, records, accounts, deeds, grants, contracts, bonds, obligations, securities, and other evidences of debt in their possession, which relate to the city of Washington, and the affairs heretofore under their superintendence or care. Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That the affairs of the city of Washington, which have heretofore been under the care and superintendence of the said commissioners, shall hereafter be under the direction of a superintendent, to be appointed by, and 102 Documentary History of the Capitol. be under the control of, the President of the United States; and the said superin- tendent is hereby invested with all powers, and shall hereafter perform all duties which the said commissioners are now vested with, or are required to perform by, or in virtue of, any act of Congress, or any act of the general assembly of Maryland, or any deed or deeds of trust from the original proprietors of the lots in the said city, or in any other manner whatsoever. Sec. 3. And be it further enacted, That the said commissioners shall forthwith settle, with the accounting officers of the treasury, their accounts for all moneys received and expended by them in their capacity as commissioners, and shall immediately thereafter pay to the said superintendent any balance which may be found against them upon such settlement. Sec. 4. And be it f urther enacted, That the said superintendent shall pay all the debts heretofore contracted by the commissioners, in their capacity as such, the payments of which are not hereinafter specially provided for, out of any moneys received by him arising out of the city funds. Sec. 5. And be it further enacted, That the said superintendent shall, under the direction of the President of the United States, sell so many of those lots in the city of Washington which are pledged for the repayment of a loan of two hundred thou- sand dollars, made by the State of Maryland, in the years one thousand seven hun- dred and ninety-six and one thousand seven hundred and ninety-seven, to the commissioners, for the use of the said city, as may be sufficient to pay the interest already accrued on the said loan, and the interest and instalments thereof, as they may respectively become due: Provided, That if, in the opinion of the President of the United States, the sale of a sufficient number of the said lots, to meet the objects aforesaid, cannot be made without an unwarrantable sacrifice of the property, then so much money as may be necessary to provide for the deficiency is hereby appro- priated, and shall be paid out of any money in the treasury of the United States not otherwise appropriated. Sec. 6 . And be it further enacted, That the said superintendent shall, prior to the first day of November next, sell, under the directions of the President of the United States, all lots in the said city, which were sold antecedent to the sixth day of May, in the year one thousand seven hundred and ninety-six, and which the said com- missioners are authorized by law to resell, in consequence of a failure on the part of the purchasers to comply with their contracts; and the moneys arising thereupon shall be applied, on or before the first day of November next, to the payment of the sum of fifty thousand dollars, and the interest thereon, to the State of Maryland, which said sum was formerly loaned by the said state to the commissioners for the use of the city of Washington: Provided, That, if a sufficient sum to meet the objects last aforesaid, shall not be produced by the sale of the whole of the lots aforesaid, then so much money as may be necessary to provide for the deficiency is hereby appro- priated, and shall be paid out of any money in the treasury of the United States, not otherwise appropriated. Sec. 7. And be it further enacted, That, after the debts already contracted by the commissioners shall have been discharged, all moneys advanced out of the treasury in pursurance of this act, shall be reimbursed by the superintendent, by paying into the treasury all moneys arising from the citv r funds, until the whole sum advanced, with the interest thereon, shall be repaid. Sec. 8. And be it further enacted, That so much of the act, intituled “An act to establish the temporary and permanent seat of government of the United States,” passed on the sixteenth day of July, in the year seventeen hundred and ninety, as relates to the appointment of commissioners shall be, and the same is hereby, repealed. The Old Building. 103 [American State Papers, Class X, Misc., v. I, 337. No. 159. 7th Congress, 2d Session. City of Washington. Communicated to Congress, January 25, 1803.] January 24 , 1803 . Gentlemen of the Senate, and of the House of Representatives : I transmit a report by the Superintendent of the City of Washington, on the affairs of the city committed to his care. By this you will perceive that the resales of lots prescribed by an act of the last session of Congress did not produce a sufficiency to pay the debt to Maryland to which they are appropriated; and as it was evident that the sums necessary for the interest and instalments due to that State could not be produced by a sale of the other public lots, without an unwarrantable sacrifice of the property, the deficiencies were of necessity drawn from the Treasury of the United States. * * * Th: Jefferson. Superintendent’s Office, Washington, December 20, 1802. Sir, * * * The state of the public buildings, directed to be reported, is the same as at the last session of Congress, or not materially changed. The private buildings, then seven hundred and thirty-five in number, have since increased a few more than one hundred. * * * Thomas Munroe. The President of the United States. * * * [House proceedings of Feb. 9, 1803: Annals of Congress, 7 — 2, p. 492.] Mr. Mitchell moved the appointment of a joint committee of both Houses to inquire into the state of the public buildings, what repairs are required, and the expense attending the same. Mr. Eustis offered two resolutions — the one for making provision by law for making such alterations in the Capitol, as are required for the future accomodation of Congress; the other appropriating the sum of dollars. The above resolutions were ordered to lie on the table. [House proceedings of Feb. 12, 1803: Annals of Congress, 7-2, p. 516.] Mr. Mitchell moved the following resolution: Resolved , That a joint committee of both Houses be appointed to inquire into the state of the public buildings in the City of Washington, and to report what repairs are necessary for their preservation, with the probable expense of such repairs. Ordered, That the said motion be committed to a Committee of the Whole House, to whom was this day referred a motion relative to a provision for making such alterations in the Capitol as may be necessary for the future accommodation of Congress. [House proceedings of Feb. 28, 1803: Annals of Congress, 7 — 2, p. 607.] CITY OF WASHINGTON. Mr. Randolph, from the Committee of Ways and Means, reported a hill concerning the City of Washington, which was referred to a Committee of the Whole. * * * 104 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Randolph suggested to the gentleman from New York the propriety of intro- ducing into this bill such provisions as he thought proper, and had some time since alluded to, respecting the necessary repairs to the public buildings. Mr. Mitchill made a few remarks on the necessity of making provision for the accommodation of the next Congress, in consequence of its augmented numbers, and for repairing several parts of the buildings now in a state of ruin and dilapidation; and concluded by saying he would prepare a new section to that effect. Mr. Dawson said he had prepared a new section of this nature, which he offered to the Chair, appropriating dollars, to be applied under the direction of the President to the repair of the Capitol, for the future accommodation of Congress. On the suggestion of Mr. Alston, the motion was varied so as to embrace the public buildings generally. Mr. Meriwether thought the Committee were acting without proper information. Mr. Dawson observed that an estimate had been made. Mr. Bacon inquired what sum it was contemplated to appropriate. Mr. Brent said an estimate had been made by an eminent architect of the sum that would be required for putting the part of the Capitol, in which the House sat, in such a situation as to accommodate them. The estimate, he understood, was $40,000. Mr. Morris asked if it was not intended to repair the other parts of the Capitol and the President’s House, the roofs of which were, he understood, so leaky as to threaten both edifices with ruin. Mr. Dawson’s motion was then agreed to — ayes 42. Mr. Brent moved to fill the blank with $50,000. Carried — ayes 40. On motion of Mr. Eustis the above appropriation was made to embrace the keeping in repair of the highway between the Capitol and the President’s House. The Committee then rose and reported the bill with amendments; to which the House agreed, and ordered the bill to be engrossed for a third reading today. [From the “Act concerning the City of Washington,” approved Mar. 3, 1803. (Stats, at Large, v. 2, 236.)] Sec. 5. And be it further enacted, That a sum not exceeding fifty thousand dollars shall be, and is hereby appropriated, to be applied under the direction of the Presi- dent of the United States, in such repairs and alterations in the Capitol and other buildings as may be necessary for the accommodation of Congress in their future sessions, and also for keeping in repair the highway between the Capitol and other public buildings; which sum shall be paid out of any money in the treasury of the United States not otherwise appropriated. [Message from the President, of the. United States, transmitting report of the Surveyor of the Public . Buildings at the city of Washington, Feb. 22, 1804. (8 — 1. House Ex. Docs.)] To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States: I communicate to Congress, for their information, a report of the surveyor of the public buildings at Washington, stating what has been done under the act of the last session concerning the city of Washington on the Capitol and other public buildings, and the highway between them. February 22d, 1804. Th: Jefferson. Washington, 20th Feb. 1804- To the President of the United States. Sir, On the 4th of April 1803, I had the honor to lay before you a general report, on the state of the public buildings in this city. 1 now beg leave to submit to you The Old Building. 105 an account of the progress that has been made in the works directed by you in con- sequence of that report: and in order more clearly to explain the subject, I beg to recapitulate concisely what I formerly stated. I. On the North Wing of the Capitol. On a careful survey of the north wing of the capitol it was found, that the want of air and light in the cellar story, had begun to produce decay in the timbers, — that the roof was leakly, and the ceilings and walls of several of the apartments were thereby injured, — that it would be impossible to render the Senate chamber, the extreme coldness of which of which was a matter of complaint, more warm and comfortable without the construction of stoves or furnaces below the floor, for which purpose it would be necessary to carry up additional flues, and to remove a very large quantity of rubbish from the cellars; and that the skylights were extremely out of repair. During the course of the last season, therefore openings have been made into all the cellars, the decayed timbers having been replaced where immediately necessary, the floors that required it have received additional support, the senate chamber has been rendered more comfortable by the introduction of warm air, by the erection of a stove, by the exclusion of cold air from the cellar by plaistering, — and should the plan adopted after the. experience of the present session be approved, another stove is ready to be put up: all the cellars have been cleared and the rubbish removed. In respect to the roof, the best repairs which could be made without unroofing the whole wing, have been made, and the leaks rendered of less importance: but the early meeting of congress, and the magnitude, and the doubtful completion as to time, of a thorough repair by taking off the whole upper part of the roof, induced me to postpone this operation. Every preparation however is made, and the lead which covers so great a part of the roof, will contribute greatly to defray the expense of this thorough repair. The skylights have also been only repaired, but it is necessary to institute in their room lanthorn lights, with upright sashes and close tops. This work has also been deferred, and for the same reasons. General repairs of those parts of the building which were hastily and slightly executed, previously to the removal of the seat of government, were also necessary, and they have been made. II. On the South Wing of the Capitol. On the 4th of April 1803, it was necessary to report to you, that on opening, in order to examine the walls of the cellar story of the south wing of the capitol, the work- manship was found to have been so unfaithfully performed, as to render it absolutely necessary to take them down to the foundation, and that even the greatest part of the materials were too bad to be used again. Previously therefore to the commence- ment of the work upon this wing, all the old external walls were removed. The new work was executed with the best materials, and in the most durable manner that could be devised. Great disadvantages were encountered at the commencement of the season. The long intermission of public work, had scattered the workmen, and the supply of materials was difficult and tardy. The work however which has been done, is considerable. The walls have been raised to nearly half the height of the ground story. The preparations for further progress, should the legislature direct the same, are also great, and materials are now collected on the spot nearly sufficient, and already prepared to finish the external walls of the lower story. The rapidity and greater oeconomy with which the work will in future proceed, is also an advantage gained. A system for the supply of materials is now organized, — a great number of excellent workmen are collected, and the expense of machinery, scaf- folding, and utensils defrayed. 106 Documentary History of the Capitol. The hall in which the house of representatives are now assembled, was erected as part of the permanent building. I am, however, under the necessity of representing to you, that the whole of the masonry, from the very foundation, is of such bad workmanship and materials, that it would have been dangerous to have assembled, within the building, had not the walls been strongly supported by shores from with- out. For easy examination, the wall has been opened in several places, and an actual inspection will immediately explain the state in which it is. Besides the work done to secure the present building, it has been lighted in the best manner which the construction of the roof will admit, in order to remedy the diminution of light by carrying up the external walls. The encrease of the number of the members of the house this session, rendered it necessary to take up the plat- form, and to enlarge the space for seats. This has also been done, and forms part of the expenditure of the season. In my former report, I took the liberty to suggest the propriety of considering whether any, and what improvement of the original plan of the work might be necessary for the better accommodation of the house of representatives in the south wing of the capitol, so as to bring the offices attached to the house, nearer to the legislative hall. The attention you have already been pleased to give to this subject encourages me to suggest the necessity of an ultimate decision previously to the com- mencement of the work of the ensuing season. * * * The superintendant of the city has favored me with the necessary information to give the following statement of expenditures, up to this day. 2. On the north wing of the capitol. a. In repairs 1,513 22* b. On the senate chamber 1, 168 34* - 2,681 57 3. On the south wing, a. Repairs, &c. of the hall of representatives 555 13* b. Materials, labor, and superintendance of the work of the south wing 31,190 231 31,745 37 Your faithful humble servant, B. Henry Latrobe, Surveyor of the public buildings of the United Slates at Washington. P. S. — I beg leave to add, that to complete the work in free stone of the south wing, which is the most expensive part of the building, the sum of thirty thousand dollars will be sufficient, according to the best estimate which can be made. [From the report of the Committee to whom was referred, on Feb. 22, 1S04, the Message of the President communicating a report of the Surveyor of Public Buildings at the City of Washington, communi- cated Mar. 6, 1S04. (8-1. House Committee Reports.)] The Committee to whom was referred the message of the President of the United States, transmitting a report of the Surveyor of the public buildings at the City of Washington, submit the following report, in part: From the letter of the surveyor of the public buildings to the President of the United States, it appears, that since the last session of congress, various necessary alterations and repairs have been made on the north wing of the capitol, essential to the preservation of that part of the building, and for rendering the Senate chamber more comfortable and agreeable by the introduction of warm air, and the erection of stoves; — that some repairs have been made on the roof of that wing, which for the present will diminish the leaks, but the early meeting of congress, prevented that thorough repair being undertaken, which seems to be necessary to secure the build- ing from injury by the weather; — that for the same reason, the erection of lantlwrn The Old Building. 107 lights in the place of sky lights has been postponed, and the latter only repaired; that on a strict scrutiny the work which had been performed on the south wing, it was discovered, that the materials employed, were so extremelv indifferent, and the workmanship executed with so little fidelity, that it became a matter of necessity to take down the walls to their very foundations; — that the new exterior wall, which is raised to half the height of the ground story, is executed with the best of materials, and in the most durable manner that could be devised; that preparations are made for progressing with the work, a considerable quantity of materials collected and prepared for finishing the external wall of the lower story; a system for the supply of materials organized; a great number of excellent workmen collected, and the expense of machinery, scaffolding and utensils defrayed; — that sundry necessary alterations have been made in the building at present occupied by the House of Representatives, and the elleptical wall was insecure and dangerous, rendered safe and stable by strong supports of timber; — * * * From a letter addressed to your committee by the surveyor of the public build- ings, which accompanies this report, it appears, that two annual appropriations of fifty thousand dollars each, will from the best estimate which can be made at pres- ent, completely finish the south wing of the capitol, in a handsome and commodious manner. There is no diversity of sentiment among the members of your committee, in expressing an opinion, that it would at present be highly detrimental to the public interests, to discontinue the work; and that provision ought at least to be made, for putting the public buildings already erected in a state of complete repair, and for finishing the south wing of the capitol, which is intended for the accommodation of the house of representatives. Should any considerable interval of time elapse, before the work is resumed, the unavoidable consequence must be a very considerable loss to the public, in timbers, scaffolding, machinery, and utensils, which it is repre- sented have been prepared for carrying on the work; the workmen likewise, who have been engaged, will be necessarily dispersed, and much inconvenience may occur in re-assembling artizans caj^able of performing the more difficult parts of the work. In addition to these suggestions your committee beg leave to observe, that from the present insecure and unfinished state of the public buildings, constantly exposed to the inclemencies of the seasons, no doubt can exist, but they will in a short time fall into a state of ruin and decay, and that real economy points out the propriety of making such an appropriation as shall be adequate to the purposes they have recommended: They therefore submit the following resolution; Resolved, That fifty thousand dollars ought to be appropriated to be applied under the direction of the President of the United States, in proceeding with the public buildings at Washington; and in making such necessary improvements and repairs thereon as he shall deem expedient. Letter from B. Henry Latrobe to the Chairman of the Committee, dec. To the Chairman of the Committee of the House of Representatives in Congress, to whom was referred the message of the President of the United States of the 22d of February 1804, transmitting a report of the Surveyor of the public buildings of the 20th of February, 1804: THE REPORT OP THE SURVEYOR OF THE PUBLIC BUILDINGS. Washington, February 28tli, 1804- Sir, In compliance with my duty, and your desire, that I should give you such information respecting the original plan of the capitol as approved by General Washington, of the accommodations provided therein for the House of Representa- tives, together with my opinion as to such alterations as might further conduce to 108 Documentary History of the Capitol. render the house as commodious as possible, I beg to submit to you the following report. By the act of congress of the 16th July 1790, establishing the permanent seat of Government, it is enacted, among others — “that the President shall appoint three commissioners” who shall “according to such plans as the President shall approve” &c. “prior to the 1st day of December 1800, provide suitable buildings for the accom- modation of congress, &c.” General Washington, at that time president of the United States, did approve the plan of doctor Thornton — and by that approbation, this plan became, as it were, a part of the law, and ceased to be liable to alteration, until the act of Congress of 1802-1803, which appropriated 50,000 thousand dollars towards the completion of the capitol, and other public purposes, and authorised “ alterations ” in the plan. Of the plan approved by General Washington, no drawing can at present be found among the papers belonging to this office. From the evidence of the foundations which were taken up during the last season, from some which still remain, and especially from the testimony of all those who were first employed in the execution of the work, it appears that it differed from that which is now to be had, in many essential points. The evidence of the books of the office, proves that it was not con- sidered as practicable. As its author was not a professional man, it was put into the hands of Mr. Ifallet — whose knowledge and talents as a practical architect, are proved by his designs, still in the office — that its deficiencies might be corrected. Mr. Ifallet however, was not continued in the pnblic service. Mr. Hatfield afterwards succeeded in the superintendance of the capitol. Of his judicious attempts to correct the radical errors of the original design, as far as it could be understood from the imperfect sketches, which were put into his hands, instances are every where to be found in the north wing of the capitol; and it is to be regretted that his endeavors, upon the whole, failed, and that the public have lost the benefit of his talents. After the departure of Mr. Hatfield, the public became indebted to Mr. George Blagden, of whose integrity and abilities, as the principal stone mason, his work bears honor- able testimony, for the excellent execution of the freestone work of the north wing. Under the hands of Mr. Hallet, and of Mr. Hatfield, the original design, as far as its erection was attempted, received improvement and considerable attention. The various stiles of each architect Shew themselves in the work, and prove the truth of the preceding statement. The parts belonging to each might be pointed out in detail, if it were interesting or necessary. When the President of the United States did me the honor to employ me in the direction of the work, my first endeavor was to procure the drawings necessary to understand and execute the original design; for which purpose I applied to the author, and received only a ground plan. Xo information as to the execution of any part of the work, being given by this plan beyond what was already built, I searched the papers of the office, and applied to the persons formerly employed in the work. I was every where disappointed and found that no drawings from which the design could he understood or executed existed, and that the plan of which I was possessed, inde- pendently of several parts being wholly impracticable, did not agree with the foundations which were laid. I was also informed, and the most indisputable evi- dence was brought before me, to prove, that no sections or detailed drawings of the building had ever existed, excepting those which were from time to time made by Messrs. Hallet and Hatfield, for their own use in the direction of the work. From what I have said, it is evident, that I am unable to give you any information as to the plan approved by Washington. But supposing the plan, now in my pos- session, to be similar to that which he did approve, as far as regards the south wing, I will submit to you my opinion respecting the accommodations provided therein for the house of representatives of the United States. The Old Building. 109 The whole area of the south wing, being about 108 by 84 feet in the clear, is in the plan given to me as the original design, appropriated to the hall of representatives, and to a spacious lobby around it. The room in which the house now sits is the area intended for the accommodation of the house in session, the windows are to be open arches, as in the senate chamber, leading into the lobby, and the space between the wall of the present house and the external wall, is designed for the lobby of the house. Upon the wall, on which the present roof rests, columns have been designed to support the roof, while the whole space between the columns and external wall, was appropriated to an immense gallery surrounding the house, in form and size exactly equal to the lobby below. A better idea of the intended hall cannot be con- ceived, than by imagining the present senate chamber to be doubled and formed into a compleat ellipsis, presenting a range of arches below and of columns above, the lobby and gallery being situated as in the senate chamber. To this arrangement I think it my duty to state to you the following objections: I. As they respect use and convenience. For the commodius dispatch of business, it appears to me that the following apart- ments should be closely attached to the legislative hall. 1. A number of committee rooms. 2. A chamber for the speaker, in which he may transact business with the mem- bers or others, when not sitting in the chair of the house. 3. An office for the clerk of the house. 4. Offices for the engrossing clerks. 5. An apartment for the doorkeeper, in which he may assort and keep printed papers for delivery to the members, distribute letters, and preserve the articles belonging to his office. 6. Another for subordinate officers of the house. 7. Closets of convenience. 8. Fire proof repositories of records. 9. A lobby sufficient for the convenient retirement of a large number of members from the house, but not adapted to the purposes of a gallery. The lobbies of the house of representatives and senate, as hitherto used, have been greviously com- plained against as nuisances, and the President of the senate has not permitted the introduction of strangers into the house as heretofore. 10. A commodious gallery, not only overlooking the house, but comjdetely com- manded by the view of the officers of the house. My objections to the present plan, arise from the want of all these accommoda- tions in situations contiguous to the house, and the want of some of them altogether. The north wing is too remote to supply this want consistently with the convenient dispatch of business. I have mentioned the inconvenience of a lobby calculated to serve the purposes of a gallery. The lobby which is proposed to surround the legislative hall has all the inconveniences of a lobby within the walls, without the advantage of being con- trolled by a view of the house. Its size invites a croud of which the intervening piers prevent the view. 11. I might add objections to the safe practicability of such a plan, as to its appear- ance and as to the difficulty of warming the house; but I will not trespass upon your time by the enumeration of professional objections. The alterations which may be made in the plan so as to obviate all these objec- tions and to supply all conveniences, have already been laid before the President of the United States, and have received his serious consideration. They are consistent with the preservation of the exterior appearance of the house, and at an expense not greater than that of the plan proposed. The great feature of this alteration is to raise up the floor of the legislative hall to the level of the present library, and to use the whole lower story as the situation for 110 Documentary History of the Capitol. committee rooms and offices. The speaker and the clerk of the house would have offices level with the floor of the house. In contemplation of such improvement the walis of the house have been carried up last summer, and should the legislature direct the further prosecution of the work, there cannot be a doubt but that the present expenditures will be so directed by the President of the United States, as to produce a work, permanent, convenient, and not inconsistent with the dignity of its purpose. * * * If the system now established for the supply of materials be not inter- rupted, and the numerous workmen now collected be kept together, I have no doubt but that the south wing will be completely finished for the permanent accommo- dation of the house, in the year 1805. But as it may be unadvisable to occupy the building while still damp — the fall of 1806 may be considered as the period at which the house will assemble in their new hall. I am, with true respect, your faithful humble servant, B. Henry Latrobe, The Chairman of the Committee ON THE PUBLIC BUILDINGS. Surveyor of the public buildings of the United, States, at Washington. P. S. In my report to the President of the United States, I have mentioned that 30,000 dollars would be sufficient to finish the work in free stone only of the south wing. This sum will not be expended on the free stone work during the present year. It is my opinion, from the best estimate which I can make in the present state of business, that two annual appropriations of 50,000 each will completely finish the south wing before the end of 1805. B. H. Latrobe. [House proceedings of Mar. 13 , 1804 : Annals of Congress, 8 — 1, p. 1183.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The House resolved itself into a Committee of the whole on the report of the Com- mittee of the sixth instant, to whom was referred, on the twenty-second ultimo, the Message from the President of the United States, communicating a report of the Surveyor of the Public Buildings at the City of Washington; and, after sometime spent therein, the Committee rose and reported a resolution thereupon; which was read as follows: Resolved, That fifty thousand dollars ought to be appropriated, to be applied under the direction of the President of the United States, in proceeding with the public buildings at Washington; and in making such necessary improvements and repairs thereon, as he shall deem expedient. The House proceeded to consider the said resolution: Whereupon, the question was taken that the House do concur with the Committee of the whole House in their agreement to the same; and resolved in the affirmative — yeas 57, nays 23, as follows: * * * Ordered, That a bill, or bills, be brought in pursuant to the said resolution; and that Mr. Thompson, Mr. Smilie, Mr. Huger, Mr. John Campbell, and Mr. Cutts, do prepare and bring in the same. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 24, 1804: Annals of Congress, 8 — 1, p. 301.] The Senate took into consideration the resolution of the House of Representatives disagreeing to their amendment to the bill, entitled “An act concerning the public buildings at the City of Washington;” and, on motion to adhere to the amendment, it passed in the negative — yeas 12, nays 12, as follows: * * * The Old Building. Ill On motion to postpone the consideration of this bill to the next session of Con- gress, it passed in the negative— yeas 9, nays 14, as follows: * * * Resolved, That the Senate do insist on their amendment, disagreed to by the House of Representatives, to the said bill, ask a conference thereon, and that Messrs. Anderson and Tracy be the managers at the same on their part. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 27, 1804: Annals of Congress, 8 — 1, p. 305.] Mr. Anderson, from the managers at the conference on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses on the amendment to the bill, entitled “An act concerning the public buildings at the City of Washington,” reported that they could come to no agree- ment; but that it was the opinion of the managers, on the part of the Senate, that the bill be postponed to the next session of Congress. Whereupon, a motion was made, that the further consideration of this bill be postponed until the next session of Congress; and it passed in the negative — yeas 5, nays 19, as follows: * * * On the question to recede from their amendment insisted on to the said bill, it passed in the affirmative — yeas 17, nays 7, as follows: * * * [“An Act concerning the Public Buildings at the City of Washington," approved Mar. 27, 1804. (Stats, at Large, v. 2, 298.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That fifty thousand dollars shall be, and the same is hereby appropriated, to be paid out of any money in the treasury, not otherwise appropri- ated, to be applied under the direction of the President of the United States, in pro- ceeding with the public buildings at the city of Washington, and in making such necessary improvements and repairs thereon, as he shall deem expedient. [Message from the President of the United States, communicating a report of the Surveyor of the Public Buildings at the city of Washington, Dec. 6, 1804. (8 — 2, State Papers.)] To the Senate, and House of Representatives of the United States. I communicate for the information of Congress, a report of the surveyor of the public buildings at Washington, on the subject of those buildings, and the applica- tion of the monies appropriated for them. Th: Jefferson. Dec. 6th, 1804. Accompanying a Message from the President of the United States, received 6th December, 1804. To the President of the United States. Sir, In reporting to you on the manner, in which the work on the public build- ings of the United States has been conducted, during the year 1804, I cannot avoid expressing my regret, that a sensible portion of the appropriation by Congress has necessarily been expended in pulling down, or repairing what was done insufficiently, previously to the year 1803. The application of the public money, to the separate objects of the President’s house, and the capitol, including the alteration, removal, re-erection or repair of the 112 Documentary IT! story of the Capitol. works, will be separately stated in the accounts of the superin tendant of the city, to be rendered to the treasury. But as these accounts will not be closed, until the first of January 1805, he has furnished me with the following statement, up to the present day, of payments in the present year, out of the appropriation of 1804, and a balance of the appropriation of 1803, not expended in that year, viz. CAPITOL. Including all alterations, additions .and repairs, in the north wing, except fitting up Representatives’ chamber 44,548.20 For fitting up Representatives’ chamber 689.23 * * -» 2. THE CAPITOL. In my former reports to you, I stated the propriety of reconsidering the plan of the South wing of the Capitol; and on the reasons given in that report, and in a letter to the chairman of the committee of the House of Representatives, appointed to enquire into the subject, the plan which has been the ground work of all that has been done during the season, was approved and adopted. By the arrangements of this new design, the House of Representatives will sit on the principal story of the building, the whole of the ground story being appropriated to the offices of the house:- a situation the most contiguous which could be obtained, and far preferable, for offices, to the North wing or the attic story. Various causes have conspired to prevent our carrying up, this season, as large a mass of building as was expected. The first and principal of these have been, the time, labor, and expense of pulling down to the very foundation, all that had been formerly erected. Bad as the workmanship appeared before the walls were taken down, the measure of removing them entirely was still more justified, by the state in which they were found to be on their demolition. Even the materials, with exception of the bricks, were not of any important value to the new work. The stone was fit only to be used as common rubble, and most of the timber was in a state of decay, from the exclusion of air. Another cause of delay in preparation, and an important one, was the late period at which the appropriation was made. The extreme wetness of the beginning of the season, and the floods which filled up some of the quarries, and retarded the working of others, afterwards operated much against the progress of the building, and threw great difficulties in our way. After the work had begun, we were again interrupted by the sickness which prevailed, and which at one time, threatened, by depriving us of many of our best workmen, to put a stop to the work. Under all these inconveniences, and others arising from the nature of the building itself, the work has been carried on. The best mode of proceeding would undoubt- edly have been, to have carried up the interior with the exterior walls. But the former building stood within the area of the wing. Had the external walls been suffered to. remain on the level at which the work was closed at the end of the year 1803, till the inner building could be removed, and the internal wall carried up, little progress could have been made in the former, during the present season, and the stone cutters would have been idle. It was therefore thought best, to carry up all the external Avails by themselves, thereby forwarding the more slow progress of the ornamental work in free-stone, and to construct them in such a manner, as to prepare for good bond with the interior Avork, and for the support of the A r aults the pressure of which they will be required to resist. Thus has the work been raised to the leA^el of the selles of the attic windows externally, and by far the most tedious and expensive part of the Avork in free stone has been completed, excepting the The Old Building. 113 cornice, and the capitals of the pilasters. Of the cornice a large portion is also wrought, and of the 30 capitals 16 are finished. Of the interior parts of the building, all the foundations are laid, and brought up to the floor of the cellar story on the North side, and although they do not appear to view, the work done in them is very considerable. The whole south half of the cellar story is vaulted, and ready to receive the walls of the basement or office story. Preparations to a very great extent have already been made in order to proceed vigorously with the building, as soon as the will of the National legislature shall be known to that effect, and the season will permit. All the free-stone for the external walls, entablature, and ballustrade is provided and the greater part of it on the spot. For the internal colonnade, all the stone is ordered, most of it is quarried, and much of it is already brought to the building. Early in the season the public quarry on the island in Acquira creek was opened, and much useful stone quarried; and it would have been much to the advantage of the public, had the extent of the appro- priation permitted us to have prosecuted this work. But it was found, that to clear out the rubbish of former workings, and to provide for the conveyance of the stone to the water side, altho’ ultimately a measure of economy, would have made too large a deduction from the funds required to carry on the building itself, and contracts for stone with individuals were therefore preferred. In the arrangements for erecting so large an edifice as, the South wing of the capitol, and for pulling down or repairing extensive works of former construction, it was not easy, perhaps it was impossible, so to proportion all the various contracts and engagements for labor and materials to the funds appropriated to their ultimate liquidation, as to keep within their limits, and at the same time to make exertions equal to the public expectation arising out of their extent. In the present instance, the contracts which are made, and which are in the prog- ress of their completion, will exceed in amount, what remains of the appropriation of last year. I must however at the same time observe, that the stock of materials wrought and un wrought, which are now actually at the building, exceed greatly this deficiency. — should the legislature — on view of the solid, permanent, and incom- bustible manner, in which the work has been executed, and on consideration of the evidences of fidelity to their duty, which those engaged in the labor of the work have everywhere exhibited — think proper to proceed with the completion of the building, of their house, it would very much contribute to the early occupation by the House of Representatives, if an appropriation exceeding $50,000 were made for the next season. Such an appropriation, while it would give larger limits to the exertions which might be made, would by no means disturb that system of economy which has hitherto been pursued, but would rather conduce to the most advanta- geous and provident purchase of all our materials. And it is especially to be consid- ered, that too early and extensive provision cannot be made, for those parts of the work, which must necessarily be of wood. The time is now at hand, at which further delay would be injurious and expensive, and should the sum necessary for this provision, added to the arrears which are or will become due, on outstanding contracts, be defrayed out of a future appropriation, of only 50,000 dollars, — the progress of the solid parts of the building, will be materially injured, and must to a certain extent be put off to another season beyond the next. In my letter of the 28th February, 1804, to the chairman of the committee of the House of Representatives, to whom the subject of the public buildings was referred, I presumed that three annual appropriations of 50,000 dollars each, would be suffi- cient to finish the South wing of the capitol. This estimate was given under state- ment of the extreme difficulty of estimating a work of this kind. One of the appro- priations of 50,000 dollars has been granted, but from the detail of the statements I herein submit to you, it will appear, that the whole of it could not possibly be made applicable to the actual progress of the work on the capitol. II. Rep. (ilti -8 114 Documentary History of the Capitol. Having thus endeavored correctly and minutely to report the progress of the work on the public buildings, during the past season, I now most respectfully submit to you, all the views of the past, and for the future, which the facts suggest. B. Henky Latrobe, Surveyor of the ■public buildings of the United States, at Washington. [House proceedings of Dec. 17, 1804: Annals of Congress, 8 — 2, p. 836.] Ordered, That the Message from the President of the United States, communicat- ing a report of the Surveyor of the Public Buildings at the City of Washington, on the subject of the said buildings, and the application of the moneys appropriated for them, which were read and ordered to lie on the table, on the sixth instant, be referred to Mr. Thompson, Mr. Nelson, Mr. Huger, Mr. John Cotton Smith, Mr. Goodwyn, Mr. Plater, and Mr. Cutts; that they do examine the matter thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House. [Letter of B. Henry Latrobe, Surveyor of the Public Buildings at the City of Washington, Dec. 30, 1804, to the Chairman of the Committee of the House of Representatives on the subject of said build- ings, presented Jan. 9, 1805, accompanying bill making an appropriation for completing the south wing of the Capitol. (8 — 2, House Com. Reports.)] WILMINGTON, (del.) December 30, 1804. Sir, In answer to your letter of the 21st of December, I beg leave to state that the sum necessary to finish that part of the south wing of the capitol which is now in progress is 109,100 dollars, and of that part which corresponds to the recess in the north wing, 25,200 dollars, in all, 134,300 dollars. This estimate is founded upon the best calculations that can be made of a building so complicated in its construction, and of which the materials and workmanship of many parts are of such a nature, that a small alteration of dimension or arrangement, may occasion a considerable difference of expense. It is, I believe, the most accu- rate that under all circumstances can be made, and I do not expect that it will be exceeded. -x- * * r pi ie objects in view would be accomplished, if Congress in their wisdom should think proper to grant the sum of 100,000 dollars for the use of the public buildings during the next season. Such an appropriation will indeed be the only means of insuring to the House of Representativs the occupancy of their hall at the session of 1806, and of preventing their being confined for more than one other season to the inconvenient situation of the Library. In the above estimate I have included that part of the building which is not yet begun, but which will contain the access to the House, and correspond to the recess part already erected in the North wing; — because, it were well to begin this part of the work as soon as possible, if it should appear to the President of the United States that its progress will not retard that of the House itself. I must also remark that no sum is therein estimated for fitting up and furnishing the new House. I am with great respect, your faithful, humble servant, B. Henry Latrobe, Surveyor of the public buildings at Washington. P. S. The above sum of 109,100 S includes the amount of all outstanding debts. P. R. Thompson, Esq. Chairman of the committee of the House of Representatives, to whom teas referred the President’s message on the Public Buildings. The Old Building. 115 [“An Act making an appropriatiation for completing the south wing of the Capitol, at the city of Washington, and for other purposes,” approved Jan. 25, 1805. (Stats, at Large, v. 2, 311.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That a sum not exceeding one hundred and ten thousand dol- lars, shall be, and the same is hereby appropriated, to be applied under the direction of the President of the United States, towards completing the south wing of the Cap- itol, at the city of Washington. Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That a sum not exceeding twenty thousand dollars, shall be, and the same is hereby appropriated, to be applied under the direc- tion of the President of the United States, to such necessary alterations and repairs, as he may deem requisite, in the north wing of the Capitol, and other public build- ings at the city of Washington; which said sums shall be paid out of any monies in the treasury, not otherwise appropriated. [Message from the President of the United States, communicating a report of the Surveyor of the Public Buildings at the city of Washington, on the subject of the said buildings and the application of the monies appropriated for them, Dec. 27, 1805. (9 — 1, House Ex. Docs.)] To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States. I lay before Congress a report of the surveyor of the public buildings, stating the progress made on them during the last season, and what may be expected to be accomplished in the ensuing one. Th: Jefferson. December 27, 1805. To the President of the United States of America. The report of the Surveyor of the public buildings of the United States, at Washington. W ASHiNGTON, December 22d, 1805. Sir: In applying the appropriations of the last session of Congress, of 110,000 dollars, to the prosecution of the work on the south wing of the capitol, and of 20,000 dollars to the service of the other public buildings, I have endeavored so to comply with your directions, as to forward the progress of the works to the utmost extent of the limited resources of this city. The mass of building which has been erected, is the best evidence of the industry and fidelity of the workmen who have been employed: but the hopes which were entertained that it might be possible to com- plete the hall of representatives in time for their occupancy, during the present session, have been disappointed. The interference and competition of several large public and private buildings, which have been carried on in the district and at Baltimore, rendered it difficult to procure any considerable body of workmen; and the quarries of freestone, at Acquia, have proved more than usually precarious, in the supply of the larger and liner blocks required for the interior of the capitol.® At the commencement of the season, the external walls of the south wing of the capitol were carried up above the windows of the principal floor, but of the interior, «The freestone of Acquia, used in the public buildings, is a calcareous sand stone, of very excel- lent quality, and the quarries are, in appearance, inexhaustible; it is, however, subject to clay-holes, to nodules of iron ore (pyrites) and to masses of flint; and the hardness and durability of the rock is often very various in the same stratum: it also suffers expansion and contraction, from moisture and dryness, to a greater degree than any stone with which I am acquainted: even after a block is taken out of the quarry and delivered in the city, and in some cases, after it has been wrought, it is liable to fly to pieces, if rapidly dried by violent heat or wind; but if it once becomes dry, and remains sound, it has never been known to fail. 116 Documentary History of the Capitol. no part, except one half of the cellars, was constructed. The cellar story, and the whole of the ground story, are now completely built and vaulted, and all the exterior and interior walls of the upper stories are carried up. The colonnade, which is to support the roof, is not yet erected, but all the bases are wrought, two thirds of the shaft blocks are at the work, and half of these are wrought. A great part of the entablature is also delivered, and of the remainder, a large portion is quarried and ready to be brought to the city. There are also on hand, materials sufficient to com- mence the work of the next season with vigor, and early, without waiting for the tardy supplies of the spring. The whole of the ground story being vaulted, less carpenter’s work is required than in ordinary buildings. The doors, sashes and frames, with their dressings, are now in hand. A considerable supply of excellent boards, plank and timber is pro- cured. The roof is also in progress, and will be in great forwardness befoi'e next spring; nor will such part of the work, in freestone, as can be executed under cover, be interrupted by the winter. I herewith submit a plan and description of the ground story of the south wing of the capitol, as the uses of the several apartments cannot be understood in their present state, without it. I. A survey of the north wing of the capitol, and especially of its roof, was made early in the season, with a view to such repairs and improvements as could be effected with advantage. This survey was made with great care, and was the more necessary, as several very alarming failures appeared in the floors and timber work of the build- ing. It was discovered that these failures arose, not only from the extremely inju- dicious construction of the framings, but that the rot had attacked timbers of principal importance. Such ceilings, therefore, or parts of them, as appeared to cover defects, were stripped. The ceiling of the library, now occupied by the house of representa- tives, though cracked, was found to be perfectly safe. But it was absolutely neces- sary to support the floor of the room in a substantial manner. This was performed by dividing the office of the secretary of the Senate into two committee rooms, by strong partitions. Such other defects as were discovered in the Senate chamber, and in other apartments, were also corrected in such a manner as to render every part of the wing secure from danger for some time to come. It became however, evident, in consequence of the minute examination of the state of the building, that, nothing but the safety of the floors and ceilings, and the tightness of the roof, ought at present to become the objects of attention. For it is very certain, that had such operations been undertaken, as would have rendered the Senate chamber more commodious and warm, and have procured for that branch of the legislature the offices and committee rooms which are so much wanted, or if any attempt had been made to accommodate the supreme court of the United States in such a manner as to prevent the disturbance of legislative proceedings, by the crowd of citizens that sometimes attend the court, and necessarily fill the passages and vesti- bules, so much time would have been occupied, and such a general derangement of the building occasioned, as to have made it doubtful, whether either house would have had their chamber finished in sufficient time for the session. The improvements made for the better accommodation of the national legislature in this wing, have been postponed until after the completion of the south wing. # * -st- ill. As none of the works on the public buildings are suspended, or completed, it is not possible now to give an exact statement of the claims to which the several appropriations are liable, together with the money already paid. On application however to the superintendent of the city he has obligingly furnished me with the present state of his account of monies paid, from which results the following state- ment, which cannot materially differ from the truth The Old Building. 117 1. Appropriation for the south wing of the Capitol $110, 000 Dee. 20th, 1805. Monies actually paid for labor and materials 07, 894 15 Estimated outstanding claims 7, 500 Balance unexpended 34,605 85 $110, 000 $20, 000 282 34 $20, 000 * * * Whether the balance of $34,605 85 will be sufficient to complete the south wing of the Capitol, cannot in the present mixed state of the work be accurately calcu- lated. The course of disappointments, accidents, and fluctuations in the prices of materials and labor, which always attend the execution of so complicated a work, and have especially occurred in this city, ■ naturally tend rather to increase than diminish the expense relatively to the estimate. And in some instances this has actually taken place. Should then the balance now unexpended be exhausted before the building be entirely ready for the reception of the house, the work must inevit- ably stop, even if it were in such a state that a small comparative sum would com- plete it, and thus one year be lost. And it must also lie taken into view, that this fund is liable to a deduction for a portion of the salaries which formed no part of the estimate of the building, they being chargeable to the public work generally; and that it ought also to cover the fitting up of the house which though indispensibly necessary is not chargeable to the building account, nor is included in the estimate. I therefore respectfully submit to you the apparent necessity of a further appropri- ation to meet any eventual deficiency, and to provide for fitting up the house when finished. It is also my duty to state to you another point which appears to be of considerable importance. As the whole of the south wing of the capitol is occupied by the house of repre- sentatives in the great apartment, there could be no approach or entrance into the hall but from the center of the capitol, that is, through the center of the north wall of the wing, which is indeed, both as to beauty and convenience, the only proper point of entrance. Now, as the ground story is occupied by the offices, there can be no communication between the house and the offices, but by the stairs which are intended to be carried up close to the north wall, in that part of the building which corresponds to the south end of the north wing, in which is placed the door of entrance, and the vestibule of the Senate chamber. In the estimate submitted to the committee of the house of representatives, there was an item for the erection of this part of the wing; but as it was not afterwards included in the appropriation, the work itself was necessarily omitted, much to the disadvantage of the building, which, both in expense and in solidity, loses by the p>artial erection of its detached parts, at different periods of time. This part of the work, I respectfully presume it is now necessary to erect. Other- wise a very expensive, though only temporary building of wood, must be constructed, containing the stair-cases and communications of the house with its committee rooms and offices. Under all these considerations, I beg to submit the following estimate of sums required to proceed to the completion of the work next season, independently of the sums now in hand. 1. To meet any eventual deficiency in the appropriation for the south wing, &c $25,000 2d. To erect that part of the building, which is to contain the communication of the offices with the house of representatives 13, 000 3d. To render the buildings accessible by removing earth and rubbish to fill up, on the south front, to the gallery doors, and to restore the communication with the north wing 2, 000 Total ■ $40, 0C0 2. Appropriation for the other public buildings Dec. 20th, 1805. Monies actually paid, 1, north wing Capitol 118 Documentary History of the Capitol. In the above estimate, I have confined myself to the works on the south wing of the capital. The unexpended balance, applicable to the other public buildings, and to the north wing, for repairs, and their progressive improvement and completion, is six thousand two hundred fifty five dollars and ninety-two cents. I submit to your consideration, in how far this sum may be sufficient for the probable expenditure of next season. I am, with true respect, Yours, faithfully, &c. B. Henry Latrobe, Surveyor of the public buildings, United Stales, Washington. PLAN OF THE OFFICE STORY OF THE SOUTH WING OF THE CAPITOL. In viewing the arrangement of the office story of the south wing of the capitol, it must be remembered, that the place and number of the windows is unalterably fixed by those of the north wing, and that no light can be procured from the numerous apartments from the north side of the south wing. It must also be considered, that the hall of representatives, which occupies the whole of the principal floor above in one great apartment, cuts off all possibility of carrying the flues of the fire places through the interior part of the building, and also determines the place of the walls and piers below, by the place of the colonnade that will surround the area of the house, and which approaches in the center of each front near to the exterior walls. Many difficulties have arisen from these two sources, and objections have been made to the narrowmess of a few of the rooms which a knowledge of the facts may remove. Every room however has been so contrived that there will be no deficiency of light and space, when the windows, many of which are blocked up, by the work- men, shall be opened, and the materials which fill the apartments shall be removed. The entrance to the office story will be in the recessed part of the building, pro- posed to be added the next season. Beyond the vestibule are the stairs which lead to the hall of representatives, the stairs will be lighted by a lanthorn light® in the roof, and give light both to the vestibule and to the passage leading to the offices. Beyond the stairs is a small octagon lobby which to the right opens towards the north wing, and to the left leads to the offices. From this lobby a passage leads towards the south, the opposite door is that of the clerks office, within this apart- ment. are two small offices for the engrossing clerks, and very spacious depositari s of the public records. A passage or coridor also extends from east to west; at each end it opens into a waiting room on each front, two smaller and one large. Each of these rooms are separately accessible. On each side of the coridor by which you enter, is a large vault to contain fuel and coal, and also a stove or furnace, by which the hall above will be heated, whenever its fire places are not sufficient for that purpose. Those vaults communicate with the very capacious cellar below. On the east side, and separated from this passage, are the privies, which are so constructed as to prevent their being a nuisance, and on the west is a separate entrance to the large north-west committee room. The access to the galleries is by external doors, near the angles of the south front, by which the citizens may enter without passing through any part of the building, or crouding the passages of the house and offices. [House proceedings of April 17, 1806: Annals of Congress? 9 — 1, p. 1063.] On motion of Mr. Ely’, Resolved, That the President of the United States be requested to take effectual measures to cause the south wing of the Capitol to be prepared for the accommoda- a a lanthorn light consists of upright sashes placed round an opening in the roof, and is covered with a regular roof and ceiling. In a sky light the opening is covered with glass. The former light is infinitely preferable to the latter. The Old Building. 119 tion of the House of Representatives, by the commencement, of the next session of Congress. Mr. Ely and Mr. Dawson were appointed a committee to present the aforegoing resolution to the President of the United States. [“An act making a further appropriation towards completing the south wing of the Capitol, at the city of Washington,” approved April 21. 1806. (Stats, at Large, v. 2, 399.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representati ves of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That a sum not exceeding forty thousand dollars, shall lie, and the same is hereby appropriated, to be applied under the direction of the President of the United States, towards completing the south wing of the Capitol, at the city of Washington, which said sum shall be paid out of any money in the treasury, not otherwise appropriated. [House proceedings of December 8, 1806: Annals of Congress, 9—2, p. 129.] Mr. D. R. Williams observed that, from an apprehension of the state of the ceil- ing, he had kept his seat not without considerable alarm. This induced him to offer the following resolution: Resolved, That the Speaker of this House be authorized to cause immediate measures to be taken for pulling down the plastering, or otherwise securing the ceiling of the Chamber in which the ses- sions of the House are now held. A conversation of some length took place on this motion, in which it was stated that, notwithstanding the assurance of the Surveyor of the Public Buildings, the plastering of the ceiling presented strong indications of insecurity, so much so as to have swagged in some places more than half an inch; that in another part of the House it had actually fallen, and that the examination, on which the opinion of Mr. Latrobe was grounded, having been so long ago as the year 1805, could not give any satisfaction as to present security. When the question was put, and the resolution agreed to — ayes 59, noes 34. A motion was made to adjourn over till Friday, but withdrawn, that the Speaker might have time before the meeting of the House to-morrow to gain the necessary information as to the steps proper to be taken. [House proceedings of December 9, 1806: Annals of Congress, 9 — 2, p. 129.] The Speaker laid before the House the result of the examination made in his presence by the Clerk of the Public Works relative to the situation of the ceiling of the House, as well as the written replies made by the Clerk to sundry questions put to him, the purport of which is the preponderating opinion of the Clerk that the ceiling is secure. This opinion is however qualified by a doubt with respect to the safety of a part of the ceiling. The Clerk further states, that to secure this part of the ceiling will require two days, and that, securing the whole will take a week. After some conversation on the subject, Mr. Ely offered a resolution for suspending all further proceedings under the order of yesterday, which was negatived — yeas 40, nays 51; the Speaker having previously intimated to the House that unless special order was taken by them he should cause, as soon as an adjournment took place, measures to be taken for securing the ceiling. [Message from the President of the United States, communicating a report of the Surveyor of the Pub- lic Buildings at the city of Washington, communicated Dec. 15,1806 (9— 2, House Ex. Docs.).] To the House of Representatives of the United States. I lay before congress a report of the surveyor of the public buildings, stating the progress made on them during the last season, and what is proposed for the ensuing one. 120 Documentary History of the Capitol. I took every measure within my power for carrying into effect the request of the house of representatives, of the 17th of April last, to cause the south wing of the capitol to be prepared for their accommodation by the commencement of the present session. With great regret I found it was not to be accomplished. The quantity of free stone necessary, with the size and quality of many of the blocks, was repre- sented as beyond what could be obtained from the quarries by any exertions which could be commanded. The other parts of the work which might all have been com- pleted in time, were necessarily retarded by the insufficient progress of the stone work. Th: Jefferson. December 15, 1806. TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. The report of the Surveyor of the public buildings of the United States, at Washington. Washington, Nov. 25, 1806. Sir, The difficulty of procuring a sufficient supply of freestone, of a quality suit- able to the construction of the interior of the house of representatives, and of its communications, which I stated and explained to you in mv report of the 22d day of December 1805, has rendered the completion of the south wing of the capitol, so that it could be occupied by the house during the approaching session, impracticable. All the parts of the work which depended on the covering of the building, and the construction of the stone work, have therefore been necessarily retarded or post- poned. In order to prevent the disappointment thus occasioned, every encourage- ment was offered to the quarriers to make extraordinary exertions. But the actual state of the quarries, the manner in which the labourers are hired and employed in them, and the limited prospect of supply to the public works after the present year, appear to have offered insuperable obstacles; and the last load which was wanted' for the south wing, and which should have arrived in August, was delivered only a few days ago. In every other branch of labour and of materials we have been in sufficient for- wardness. The carpenters work has for some time waited for the progress of the stone work: the roof was framed last winter; the sashes are made and glazed: the doors and shutters are in readiness to be put together: and all the work that could be fixed is in its place. Stone cutters have been collected from distant parts of the union, who have often been set to work on parts of the building that might have been postponed to another season, for want of freestone. All the building stone which will be wanted is on the spot: and the sand and lime required for the plaistering has been procured; and in no other material or preparation have we been deficient. Under circumstances so entirely beyond the controul of those to whom you have committed the charge of the public works, it has not been possible, that the request of the house of representatives, urged by your constant attention to the means of its accomplishment, could be complied with. And when it is considered, that this infant establishment has none of the means of extraordinary exertions which are to be found in great and populous cities, that for almost every material we use we are dependent upon distant places: for our lime on the New England states, for our lum- ber on the Delaware and the Eastern shore of the Chesapeake, for our iron on Penn- sylvania; for many other articles for which there is no demand here, excepting for the supply of the public buildings, on Baltimore and Philadelphia; and that even for our freestone, the most important article in the work, the wants of the public buildings are not sufficient to encourage the employment of much capital and labour in the quarries. When all this is considered, it will not appear surprising that the most reasonable calculations as to time, and estimates as to expense, are disappointed. The Old Building. 121 Rough building stone, bricks and sand are to be procured in sufficient quantity, of excellent quality, and on reasonable notice; but of every other material, provision must be made a considerable time before hand, and from distant sources. In answer to a letter from the chairman of the committee of the house of repre- sentatives, to whom your message relative to the public buildings was referred, dated December 30, 1N04, I stated that the sum required at that time for the complete erection of the south wing, was 109, 100 And of the recessed part of the house,® 25, 200 $134, 300 An appropriation was made in January 1805, for the completion of the south wing, of 1 10, 000 And in 1806 a further appropriation of 40, 000 was granted Total : 150, 000 The accounts of the buildings cannot be collected and made up at present, but from a general view of them, with which the superintendent of the city has politely favoured me, there appears to be still applicable tq the south wing of the capitol the sum of 11, 000 To this must be added the amount of materials purchased for the roof of the north wing, in order to be able to finish the new roof without delay, and the necessary glass for repairs which was bought in consequence of the act prohibiting the importation of glass from England, and the difficulty of procuring it from Germany 5, 000 Total 16, 000 Which being deducted from the above appropriations leaves a balance of. $134, 000 being the sum already expended on the south wing, out of the appropria- tion of $150, 000 There still remains to be finished the upper part of the recess, and its roof, the covering of the roof, all the plaistering, an inconsiderable part of the stonecutting, part of the carpenter’s work, the painting, and all the smaller works and fixings required in the ultimate finishing. Independently of the difficulty of accurately estimating any work in the progres- sive state in which it was in the year 1804, the excess in the estimate is to be accounted for from the rise in the price of many of our materials, especially free- stone, and also of our labor in different branches, from the charge of contingencies not included in the building estimate, and from the expensive exertions we have made in the present year. To complete the work on the south wing, I respectfully suggest, that in addition to the money in hand a further appropriation will be necessary, and as there cannot now exist a doubt but that the house will be ready before the next session of Con- gress, I also beg leave to state, that the numerous committee rooms and offices, together with the increased size and altered form of the house, will require a special appropriation for furnishing the same, and supplying the necessary stoves and fireplaces. North wing. In my report of December 22d, 1805, I stated the result of a careful survey of the north wing of the capitol. Towards the close of the session, a large part of the ceiling of the central lobby fell down. The whole of the plaistering of a Note. — In my report of the 22d December, 1805, by an error of clerkship, for which I cannot now account, the estimated expense of the recess is set down at only 13,000, instead of 25,200 dollars, as stated in my letter of the 30th December, 1804, from which this item was copied. On reference to my original estimate, which 1 have re-examined, the sum ought certainly to have been $25,200. 122 Documentary History of the Capitol. that ceiling has been removed; it was found to be in a very dangerous state, and on examination of the plaistering of the dome of the stair case, it was judged prudent to take down all the ornamental part of the ceiling, and part of the ceiling itself, and to re-ceil it. The whole of the ceiling of the Senate chamber has also been removed, and new lathing and plaistering put in its place. The plaistering of the columns which were burst, has also been secured. The other ceilings are judged to be perfectly safe for the present. Many attempts have been made during the last season to prevent the leakage of the gutters and of the sky-lights. But as the lead of the gutters is coated with tar and sand, it is not only almost impossible to discover the place of the leaks, but also when discovered to cure them. To take up the gutters without breaking up the whole roof, its peculiar construction rendered very difficult; and besides, unless at the same time its whole form had been altered, it would have been an useless expense. The necessity of accommodating both houses in the same wing, has therefore pre- vented any attempt of this kind, for should a heavy rain have occurred during the operation, the destruction of the plaistering of the walls and of the ceiling would have been such as to have occasioned enormous expense in useless repairs, and per- haps have endangered the accommodation of one or both houses of Congress during the present session. It being, however, ascertained by the present state of the south wing of the eapi- tol, that it will certainly be finished before the next session of Congress, I have to lay before you, agreeably to your requisition, a plan of the alterations which may be made in the north wing, so as to adapt it, not only to the ample accommodation of the Senate and of its committees and officers, but also of the judiciary of the United States, without any addition to the body of the building. The principle of the proposed alteration is this; to appropriate the whole of the lower or basement story to the use of the judiciary, by making the centre door of the north front the entrance, shutting up the communication of the centre lobby with the great stairs, and raising the floor of the Senate chamber to the principal floor, on the level of the bases of the external pilasters. The door and vestibule in the east front, the great stairs and the whole of the upper part of the building to be for the occupancy and use of the Senate. The judiciary branch of government would then have the following accommoda- tions: A court room, on the present floor of the Senate chamber. A grand jury room. Two jury rooms. The office of the clerk of the supreme court. The office of the clerk of the circuit court. The Senate of the United States would have its door of entrance in the recess on the east front as at present. The great stairs would be in the great eliptical area in which the stairs now are. The Senate chamber would be over the court room, being carried up through the upper story now' entirely unfinished and useful only for lumber. Three committee rooms would occupy the north front. The lobby of the house to the south of the Senate chamber; and, The secretary’s office would be on the east front. The library would retain its present situation with alteration of its form. Above the committee rooms three other rooms v r ould be on the north front, which may be occupied by the records, and over the office of the secretary would be the lodging of the assistant door keeper. The Old Building. 123 On the ground floor would be an internal court and privies, and every apartment and stairs would be perfectly light. These arrangements are very fully explained by the drawings herewith submitted, in which the parts to be added or removed are distinctly pointed out. The ease with which they may be made, considering their extent, and the great additional accom- modation they will afford, is very evident. No wall is proposed to be pulled down, nor even cut but in detached parts of no consequence to its solidity: and I must here remark that the external and internal walling has been most faithfully performed, and that the walls are capable of resisting and bearing any stress or pressure proposed to be put upon them. On the other hand the plaisterer’s work is universally bad, and scarcely adheres even to the brick walls, and the carpenter’s work is not only rotten, but injudiciously and insecurely put together. Therefore if no alteration of arrangement were proposed, the whole of what is pro- posed to be taken away by the present design, would necessarily be taken away for the sake of security, much of it immediately, and all of it in the course of a few years, as soon as the convenience of the legislature would permit. The expense of t'he proposed arrangements will therefore be comparatively small, when the neces- sary expense of repair is deducted. In making these alterations and repairs, there will be the advantage of working under cover of the present roof, an advantage of very great importance, both in point of expense and of expedition, and the work never being soaked by the rain, will soon be dry and the house tit for occupation. I respectfully submit to you the following plan for proceeding in the execution of this proposal. As soon as the session is ended, March 4th, 1807, the whole of the eastern side of the house, including the east vestibule, the small and great stair case, the central lobby, the north vestibule and the Senate chamber, shall be taken in hand, and the alterations made with all possible speed. The library and all the west apartments shall remain untouched, and shall be occupied by the Senate at their next session of 1807 — 1808. I have not the smallest hesitation in saying that the whole eastern part of the house will be finished in 1808, so as to be occupied at the session beginning in that year. The western apartments may then be altered and can easily be finished in one season. Each half of the roof can be separately altered, and rebuilt on a plan perfectly secure. In 1809 — 1810 the whole wing will be completed. Estimate of expenditures proposed to finish the south wing for the occu- pancy of Congress, previous to the next session « independently of the money in hand 25,000 Furnishing the same 20, 000 Towards altering the east side of the north wing 50, 000 Contingencies 5, 000 Total 100, 000 * I am, sir, With high respect, Yours faithfully, * * B. Henry Latrobe. a I must observe that the finishing of the capitals o£ the columns of the House of Representatives will be the work of a few years to come, the time of finishing them will depend on the number of artists which can be procured. 124 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House proceedings of December 15, 1806: Annals of Congress, 9 — 2, p.159.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. Mr. John Randolph offered the following resolution: Resolved, That the President of the United States be, and he hereby is, requested to cause to be laid before this House an account, stating the several sums which have been expended on the Capitol, the President’s house, the public offices, the navy yard, and the marine barracks, respectively; and the amount expended on other objects of public expense within the City of Washington. Messrs. Alston and Olin suggested that it might be embarrassing to the public officers to give such a detailed and retrospective statement. Mr. ,T. Randolph replied, that his object was to get information, for which pur- pose he wished to have a condensed view of the whole expenditures within the City of Washington. At present, when an appropriation for a particular object was called for, he possessed no standard of comparison whereby to determine its propriety. He wished to know the aggregate amount which this sink of expense, of increasing expense, has cost the nation, together with the several items of expenditure. He desired this information to guide him in judging of the future appropriations that might be asked. Suppose the House should undertake to build an University — he understood there was such a project — and they should have an estimate for it; by knowing what these buildings had cost, the frequent appropriations called for, and recollecting that every appropriation was the last, they would know how to act, and whether they were about to be involved in a sea of expense, the confines of which they could never learn. He believed this had been the case in the building in which they sat, the conduct of the persons employed on it having always fallen short of the promise made. The resolution was then agreed to, without a division; and, on the next day, Messrs. J. Randolph and D. R. Williams appointed a committee to present it to the President. [Message from the President of the United States, transmitting accounts of expenditures on the Capitol, President’s House, Public Offices, Navy Yard, and the Marine Barracks, respectively, and the amount expended on other objects of public expense within the city of Washington, prepared in obedience to a resolution of the House of Dec. 15, 1806, communicated to the House Dec. 23, 1806. (9 — 2, House Ex. Docs.)] To the House of Representatives of the United states. I now lay before you accounts of the sums which have been expended by the United States on the capitol, the President’s house, the public offices, the navy yard, and the marine barracks, respectively, and the amount expended on other objects of public expense within the city of Washington, as requested by your res- olution of the fifteenth instant. Th: Jefferson. December 23, 1806. Superintendent’s Office, Washington, December 20, 1806. Sir, In obedience to your letter of the 16th instant, I have the honor to transmit to you herewith an account, stating the several sums received from the treasury of the United States, and expended on the capitol, the President’s house, the public offices, and other objects of public expense within the city of Washington. I have the honor to be, With the greatest respect, Sir, Your most obedient servant, President of the United States. Thomas Munroe. The Old Building. 125 An account staling the several sums received from the treasury of the United Slates , and expended on the Capitol, the President's house, the Public offices, and other objects of Public expense, within the city of Washington. The monies received for these objects from the treasury of the United States, have been under the authority of appropriations made by the following acts of congress: Dollars, cents. Act- of 6th May, 1796 200, 000 18th April, 1798 100,000 24th April, 1800 10,000 3d March, 1801, (general appropriation act) ... 5, 122 3d May, 1802 8,000 2d March, 1803, (general appropriation act) ... 3, 702 66 3d March, 1803 50, 000 27th March, 1804 50, 000 25th January, 1805 110, 000 Ditto ‘ 20,000 1st March, 1805 ,. 9,000 21st April, 1806 40,000 Received from the treasury. Dollars. cents. 310, 000 295,824 66 These monies have been expended as follows: 605,824 66 ON THE CAPITOL. Dollars, cents. Act of 3d March, 1803. Of the 50,000 dollars, appro- priated by this act, there were expendod on the capitol 37, 342 75 27th March, 1804. Of the 50,000 dollars, appro- priated by this act, there were expended on the capitol 36, 896 04 25th January, 1805. An appro- priation by this act, was ex- pended on south wing 110, 000 And of the $20,000 further appro- priated by the same act, were ex- pended on the north wing 1, 130 89 111, 130 89 25th April, 1806. Of the appro- priation by this act, there have been expended on south wing . . 35, 327 96 Remaining to be expended 4, 672 04 — — 40,000 * * * Expenditures. 225,369 68 OTHER OBJECTS OF PUBLIC EXPENSE. * * •Si- 1796, May 6th. Of a loan of 200,000 dollars, by the state of Maryland, guaranteed by the United States, $120,000 have been paid, and $80,000 are still due, (both sums exclusive of interest) paid from time to time 1798, April 18th. By this act the United States loaned the city this sum, which, with the other monies borrowed under the guarantee of the United States, was expended promiscuously, amongst the monies which arose out of the funds of the city, on the public buildings, and other objects of expense 200, 000 100, 000 * * * 126 Documentary History of the Capitol . Note. It appears by a representation of the late commissioners of the city of Washington, laid before Congress in January, 1801, that, exclusive of the grounds reserved to the United States, for public purposes, which cost the city funds #37,774 00, property amounting to 8884,819 88, estimating the unsold lots at the prices for which previous sales had been made, then remained at the disposal of the government. Since that time the chancellor of Maryland has decreed the sale of 1,000 lots, not included in the above estimate, for the payment of 80,000 dollars, purchase money due thereon’ with interest from the 1st May 1800. The proceeds of these 1,000 lots, and 150 others, riot included in the commissioners estimate, but since ascertained to belong to the United States, may be considered as additions to the property stated in that estimate, and will be considerably more than equal to the subsequent sales which have been made. SUPEEITEND ENT’S OFFICE, Washington, 20tli December, 1806. Thomas Munroe, Superintendent. * * * [House proceedings of February 13, 1807: Annals of Congress, 9 — 2, p. 495.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The House went into Committee of the Whole on the bill for finishing the south wing of the Capitol, and for other purposes. On motion of Mr. Lewis, the first blank was filled with §25,000, which sum is to be applied towards finishing the south wing of the Capitol. The next blank was in that part of the bill which makes an appropriation to fur- nish the Representative Chamber for the accommodation of the House. Mr. Lewis moved to fill the blank with §20,000. On this motion considerable debate arose. Mr. Jackson, of Virginia, wished to know why so large a sum was proposed. .Mr. Gregg, of Pennsylvania, asked, if the whole sum would be wanted the present year? The Legislature had been there seven years, and there seemed little or no likelihood that the Capitol would be finished and ready for their use in seven years more. While one part is building another grows out of repair. It had been said, and he believed with truth, that there was danger of the walls tumbling down. Mr. Van Cortlandt, of New York. — lam surprised, on my ivord. Gentlemen ask why money is wanted. If no money is granted, the Capitol will not be finished in seventy times seven years. Why, want of money is the very reason it has not been finished before. Mr. Lewis, who was the chairman of the select committee that reported the bill, said he was no architect, and could not determine the expense of building in "Wash- ington. The select committee had agreed to the sums which had been moved, because they were stated to be necessary by the Superintendent of the public works, Mr. Latrobe. Mr. L. said, the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Gregg) had assigned a satisfactory reason for agreeing to the sum recommended by the commit- tee, that, if they were not granted and repairs made, the walls would tumble down. Mr. Jackson was unable to conceive how twenty thousand dollars could be wanted to furnish one room. If the sum is agreed to, the superintendent would think himself obliged to procure gilded chairs and plated tables. Mr. J. was in favor of economy, not of the economy of the last eight or ten years, but that of old times. Then twenty thousand dollars would have been thought sufficient both to build and furnish a house. Mr. Findley, of Pennsylvania, expressed his opinion in favor of the motion. Mr. Masters, of New York, observed, that they had been told, formerly, that twenty thousand dollars was enough for all the fortifications in the United States, [a loud laugh;] now, this sum is proposed to furnish us with tables and chairs. He thought it was not a good contrast. The question on agreeing to twenty thousand dollars was lost — ayes 36, noes 61. Mr. Jackson proposed ten thousand dollars. Mr. D. R. Williams proposed five thousand dollars. The Old Building. 127 Mr. Cook was glad the same sum which had been proposed for fortifications, was not agreed to for furnishing a single room, on account of the name of the thing. He proposed eighteen thousand dollars. The motion was negatived — ayes 41, noes 54. Mr. Macon (the Speaker) said, he lived in a country where they had no such expensive furniture, but, judging from tire size of the room, and the length of time in which the House had been building, [a laugh,] he imagined the sum first pro- posed would not be too large. More than twenty thousand dollars, he believed, had been granted for furnishing the President’s house. He hoped they would not spoil the room for want of one or two thousand dollars. Mr. Lewis observed, that he had no particular concern in this subject. Perhaps he should never have again the honor of a seat in the House, and if he did he should, he believed, be as willing to sit on a stool as other gentlemen. But the present fur- niture would not suit the new Chamber in the south wing. There were also several committee rooms to be furnished. The money was to be expended under the direc- tion of the President; and, from his known principles of economy, Mr. L. trusted that, however large a sum should be granted, no more would be expended than what was necessary. Judging from the expense of this House, and of the President’s, he thought twenty thousand dollars would not be too much; but as the House had neg- atived that sum, he proposed seventeen thousand dollars. Mr. Jackson thought the furniture of this room might suit again. If the tables were small, there would be so much the more room. The members now felt much inconvenience from being so confined in this small Chamber. As the present fur- niture was good for nothing else, it must, unless used by the Jlouse, be put into a bonfire. Mr. J. was against the destruction of so much property. Mr. Smilie, of Pennsylvania, said that, when they looked back to the beginning of things there, (meaning the location of the public buildings in Washington, ) they would find everything sacrificed to accommodate the owners of lots. The Capitol was placed in one part of the city, the Navy yard in another, and the President’s house in another. The Capitol and the President’s house are so far apart, (the dis- tance is one mile and five-eighths, ) that it is very inconvenient. Mr. S. had been against the building of the Capitol, and thought that it would be much better to lay out two hundred and fifty thousand dollars in building a brick house near the Presi- dent’s. But the question now is, whether they would give up the building, or vote the money. Mr. S. was in favor of the motion. The delay could not be owing to want of money, for the House had always given all that had been asked. The question on agreeing to seventeen thousand dollars, was carried — ayes 56, noes 44. That part of the bill which proposes to alter and repair the east side of the north wing, was next considered. Mr. D. R. Williams moved to strike out the word “alter.” He was willing to repair the north wing, but to alter it according to the plan of the Superintendent would require a great expense, without an adequate benefit. Mr. Lyon would agree to the motion, but he feared, if it were adopted, they would never get into the south wing. It was much like the story of the carpenter’s boy, who, being asked where his master was, said he had gone to look for another job. Mr. L. was afraid, if the motion v r as agreed to, the completing of the south wing would be delayed until the Superintendent had found another job. Mr. D. R. Williams said, he made this motion to try the principle, whether the House would agree to the alterations contemplated in the north wing.® He knew a In the original plan ol the Capitol, no room was provided for the Courts of the United States. The Superintendent of the public buildings, in his report, proposed to make two stories of the Senate Chamber, and apply the upper one to the use of the Courts. The Senate are to be accommodated on the west side of the north wing, by demolishing the library, committee rooms, &c., and making in their place a large room. The bill which gave rise to the debate was drawn in conformity to this idea of the Superintendent. 128 Documentary History of the Capitol. but one reason for the change. It was to make things correspond with the parlia- mentary language. When a bill is sent down from the Senate to the House of Rep- resentatives, it will, if the alteration takes place, really descend as this House will be about fifteen feet lower than the Senate. Rather than incur a great expense for this object, Mr. W. would rather alter the language and say, a bill is sent up to this House and down to the Senate. The motion to strike out the word “alter” was agreed to — ayes 77. Mr. Jackson moved to strike out the words “east side of.” Then the repairs would extend to the whole of the north wing, so far as they might be necessary. The House, he said, was crazy, and, if assailed by a rude attack, would certainly be demolished. The motion was agreed to. Mr. Lewis said that, if the bill had been permitted to remain as it. w r as reported, he intended to move to till the last blank with fifty thousand dollars, but as the Com- mittee had determined that there should be no alteration in the north wing, and confined the appropriation to repairs, he had no estimate of the sum with which it would now be necessary to fill the blank. He must go by guess. He had under- stood that it would cost twenty thousand dollars to put a roof on the north wing, which was much wanted, and some other repairs were necessary. He therefore moved to fill the blank with twenty-five thousand dollars. The motion was agreed to without debate — ayes 62. Fifteen thousand dollars were then proposed for improvements on the President’s house and lot, and carried without a division. The bill, as amended, was reported to the House, who concurred therein, and ordered it to a third reading to-morrow. [Senate proceedings of Feb. 26, ISO": Annals of Congress, 9—2, p. 91.] The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill, entitled “An act making appropriations for finishing the south wing of the Capitol, and for other pur- poses;” and the President reported to the House that the Committee of the Whole had agreed to some, and disagreed to other, amendments reported by the select com- mittee; and had also agreed further to amend the bill. Whereupon, a motion was made to strike out the words “twenty-five,” line sixth of the bill, as reported by the select committee; and it passed in the negative. On motion, it was agreed to strike out the word “repairing,” line eighth, and insert, in lieu thereof, the words “making a new roof and other repairs.” On the question, Shall this bill be now read the third time as amended? it was determined in the affirmative. [House proceedings of Mar. 2, 1S07: Annals of Congress, 9 — 2, p. 673.] The House proceeded to consider the amendments proposed by the Senate to the bill, entitled “An act making appropriations for finishing the south wing of the Capitol, and for other purposes.” Whereupon, Resolved, That this House do agree to the said amendments. [“An Act making appropriations for finishing the south wing of the Capitol, and for other pur- poses,” approved Mar. 3, 1S07. (Stats, at Large, v. 2, 432.] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United Stales of America in Congress assembled, That in addition to appropriations already made, the follow- ing sums of money shall be, and the same are hereby appropriated, to be applied under the direction of the President of the United States, to the purposes herein after mentioned, that is to say: The Old Building. 129 For finishing the south wing of the capitol, twenty-five thousand dollars. For furnishing the same for the accommodation of the House of Representatives, seventeen thousand dollars. For making a new roof and other repairs to the north wing of the. capitol, twenty- five thousand dollars. * * * Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That the several sums of money hereby appro- priated, shall be paid out of any money in the treasury, not otherwise appropriated. [American State Papers, Class X, Misc., v. I, -182. — No. 227. 10th Congress, 1st Session. City of Wash- ington — Public Buildings. Communicated to the House of Representatives, on the 28th of October, 1807.] Washington, October 27, 1807. Sir: The arrangement approved by the President of the United States, and adopted for the south wing of the Capitol, varies in so many respects from that of the build- ings hitherto appropriated to the session of Congress, that I beg leave most respect- fully to lay before you some explanation of the principles on which the design was formed, in order that in deliberating upon the regulations which to the wisdom of the House of Representatives may appear best adapted to the holding of their sittings, no information may be wanting to them which it is in my power to furnish. In the distribution of the House, it is provided that the access of those citizens who attend in the gallery, solely for the purpose of being present at the debates, is on the south front, at a distance from the eastern entrance, which leads to the apartments appropriated to legislative business. Between these parts of the buildings there is no communication whatever, excepting by a small door from the lobby, which door is only intended to admit the doorkeeper into the gallery, in order to execute an order of the House for the exclusion of strangers. Thus all intrusion upon the business of the House, and of its committees, may be effectually prevented by regulating admissions by the eastern entrance. The ground floor is entirely appropriated to the use of the committees of the House, and of the clerk. The committee rooms ranged on the east and west fronts have an ante-chamber or waiting-room, to each range, for the use of those citizens who have to attend the committees, and who, heretofore, had no accommodation but such as the lobby or the gallery of the house afforded. Such persons must, of necessity, enter at the eastern door. From this entrance also the staircases lead up to the door of the house. Within the house the lobbies are to the right and left. The position of the doorkeeper gives him an immediate view of every one who enters, while the interior of the house cannot be seen excepting from the galleries of the lobbies. There is, there- fore, no temptation to continuance in the lobby, but for the sake of hearing the debates from its galleries, in which the presence of the House will preserve order and silence. Within the colonnade of the house there is no room for any persons, not members of the House, excepting on the seats under the northern part of the wall. Those seats were erected on the presumption that the House might appropriate the same to the use of the Senators of the United States, when attending the House, and of such other persons, distinguished by their official characters, as the House might judge proper to admit to them. It will be in the recollection of the members that, in the north wing of the Capitol, in which were all the committee rooms and the clerk’s office, even during the sitting of the House in the temporary building, erected on the site of the south wing, every one, without discrimination, had access to all the passages of the building. It was, indeed, impossible to distinguish those who ought from those who ought not to have entered. The consequence was, that every part was crowded by those who had, and by more who had no business in the house. There are annually from four to five H. Rep. 646 9 130 Documentary History of the Capitol. hundred persons whom their affairs bring to the seat of Government during the sit- ting of the National Legislature; for these citizens the interior of the house afforded the only shelter during the severity of the winter. The lobby of the house was, therefore, usually filled with a part of them, to the great inconvenience of the mem- bers, and sometimes to the interruption of legislative business. Besides these, idle and dissolute persons ranged the whole building; the walls were defaced by obscenity and by libels; the public furniture and utensils of the House were considered as fair objects of depredation; and, were I to state the amount of some of the depredations, it would appear almost incredible. The committee rooms themselves have not been secure from the most improper intrusion; and, to particularize only one fact, much of the leakage of the roof arose from the smaller pieces of lead, called flashings, being stolen. I am very confident that, under strict regulations, the distribution of the house which I have described will render it easily practicable to avoid all these evils; and I beg very respectfully to submit such regulations as I presume would be effectual, even before the plan of the whole Capitol, which provides for the residence of the doorkeeper within the house, can be completed. While it is thought proper to admit, without discrimination, all persons who choose to go into the galleries, no attendant at the gallery door will be necessary. As, however, the lower gallery lobbies will probably become the stations of those who usually sell refreshment in such places, some restriction might jurobably be laid upon the intrusion of boys of all colors beyond the outer door, by regulating the occupancy of these lobbies. But, at the east entrance, it seems necessary that a respectable and responsible deputy of the principal doorkeeper should regulate the admission of all persons whatever, and have in charge the keys of all the committee rooms, control the serv- ants who attend the fires of the committee rooms and the furnaces of the House, and prevent the defacing of the walls, as well as the depredations hitherto committed on the furniture. The station of such an officer would be at the foot of the stairs. A short practice would enable him, without difficulty, to superintend the whole of the ground story and the stairs of the House. Experience has long pointed out the extreme difficulty of preventing the walls of public buildings from being defaced; but if, by a summary pirocess before a magis- trate, those idle persons who find amusement in so scandalous a practice could be fined, or otherwise punished, it might cease. In the design and construction of the House of Representatives, all that 1 could effect bv study and labor has been done to carry the desire of the President, to give to the House every practicable convenience and accommodation, into execution. In the permanence and solidity of the work, I hope nothing will be found deficient. The size and arrangement of the committee rooms were, in a great measure, imposed by the exterior form and structure of the north wing, of which the exterior of the south wing is necessarily an exact copy. Much of what might have been better arranged in the' interior owes its imperfection to this cause. Upon the whole, it is my ardent wish, and all my ambition is centered in the desire, that the personal accommodation of the members, and the convenience of the committees of the House, upon which so much depend the despatch and ease of legislative business, as well as the best practicable disposition and arrangement of the legislative hall itself, may have been attained. I am conscious of irremediable defects. I hope, however, that they are not considerable, and grow out of the necessary size and loftiness of an edi- fice, which must be sufficiently enlarged to contain a numerous assembly, while the powers of the human voice and of the human ear remain limited to a certain stand- ard. Magnificence is easily bought by expense, and is infinitely less important than utility. The meeting of Congress, at a period so much earlier than was expected in a very advanced part of the season, has prevented the completion of many small arrange- The Old Building. 131 ments, which will render the house still more commodious. Every exertion is now making to complete them; and should any part of the work be found, on experiment, to require alteration, provision is made for its speedy and effectual correction. With the highest respect, I am yours, faithfully, B. Henry Latrobe, Surveyor of the public buildings, United States. The Hon. the Speaker of the House of Representatives. [American State Papers, Class X, Misc., v. I, p. 719. — No. 249. 10th Congress, 1st session. City of Washington — Public Buildings. Communicated to Congress, March 25, 1808.] March 25, 1808. To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United Slates: I transmit to both Houses of Congress a report from the surveyor of the public buildings of the progress made on them during the last season, of their present state, and of that of the funds appropriated to them. These have been much exceeded by the cost of the work done, a fact not known to me till the close of the season. The circumstances from which it arose are stated in the report of the surveyor. Th: Jefferson Report of the surveyor of the public buildings of the United Stales at Washington: March S3, 1808. My report on the progress and state of the public buildings of the United States in the city of Washington during the year 1807 has been delayed until all the work performed at the capitol and President’s house could be measured, and the accounts closed as nearly to the present time as possible; and also until those additions and alterations could be made in the south wing of the Capitol which have been pointed out as necessary by the experience of the first part of the present session. There remain now very few (and those small) accounts in any department of the public buildings which have not been ultimately settled; and the statement which I shall annex to this report may be considered as comprising all the demands against them of every kind up to the present time. Ever since the year 1803, when the work on the south wing of the capitol was commenced, accounts of particular parts of the building have necessarily been in an open state, although partial settlements, at as short periods as possible, have always been made. But until the work had arrived at its present state, no complete admeasurement and valuation of the whole was prac- ticable. The accumulated balances of settled accounts form a very considerable total, which has been increased by the stock of particular kinds of materials on hand, the purchase of which appeared highly prudent, if not absolutely necessary, should Congress think proper to proceed further with the public works. I now beg leave to report on each of the public buildings, separately: 1. South wing of the Capitol. At the close of the year 1806, the framing of the roof of the south wing was put on, and during the winter it was covered in. The greatest exertions w r ere then used to finish the interior; and, notwithstanding the early meeting of the Legislature in October last, the building was so far completed as to be occupied by the House of Representatives; and at the present moment this wing of the Capitol may be con- sidered as finished, excepting in the following particulars: 1. All the wood-work and walls require to be painted. The wood-work is only primed. 2. Of the 24 Corinthian columns of the Hall of Representatives, the capitals of only two are entirely finished; eight are in a state of forwardness; and fourteen are only rough-hewn or bosted. 3. Only part of the moulding of the cornice is finished. 132 Documentary History of the Capitol. 4. The sculpture over the entrance is incomplete. 5. The enclosure of the lobbies is not yet finished. 6. All the chimney pieces of the principal story, and two of the vestibules, ten in number, are wanting. 7. Two small capitals in the circular vestibule are still to be carved. 8. The platform on the south front, giving access to the galleries, is erected upon the old scaffolding, which, having been some years in use, is weak and decayed. It is required by the nature of the ground that a permanent platform on arches should be extended along this front. In respect to these deficiencies, I beg leave to submit the following remarks: To preserve the wood-work, the painting should lie performed in the ensuing season; the walls are not yet sufficiently dry to admit it; but the painting of the ceiling of the Hall of Representatives ought not to be postponed. Its present state constitutes the only defect which remains to be corrected in that room, as I shall endeavor to explain, in speaking of the very just complaints that were made at the commence- ment of the session of the difficulty of hearing and speaking in it. The sculpture, which is still deficient, can only he completed in the course of time. There are at present in the service of the United States two very skilful Italian sculp- tors, Messrs. Andrei and Franzoni, whose talents are evident in their works. They and their pupil, Somerville, one of our own citizens, will make very considerable progress during the next season; and much other assistance can be obtained in the less difficult parts of the work. The chimney pieces have been ordered, and may soon be put up; and the platform on the south front is not a work of great expense. But, besides completing the south wing in these particulars, it appears equally necessary to erect during the present year that part of the west front which is opposite to the eastern entrance of the house, and projects westward from the northwest corner of the present building. In this part of the work it is intended to provide a dwell- ing for the doorkeeper of the House, in the height of the office story, and above to have committee rooms for the House of Representatives. The necessity of the work arises from two causes, which I beg leave to state to you. 1. In my former reports, and especially in a printed letter to the members of the Legislature, which 1 have had the honor to communicate to you, I explained the reasons which obliged me to carry up the external north wall of the house independ- ently of those internal walls with which it is connected, and upon which it depends for the principal resistance against the lateral pressure of the arches and roof of the house. This very bold undertaking succeeded in enabling us to get much more for- ward with the work than would have been otherwise possible; and, by the erection of the entrance and its communications, this wall is now firmly supported as far as they extend. But the western end of the wall still remains without any counterpoise against the pressure outwards but what arises from its own weight. The cellars, which were formerly sunk at the northwest angle of the south wing, and which for many years have been the receptacle of rain water, will, until covered, remain a source of injury to this part of the building. Every feasible step has been taken to prevent the lodging of the water in them, but much mischief was done before this could be effected; and a gradual settlement of the northwest part of the wall has been going on from the commencement, and still increases, though very slowly. It may be observed in the lobby of the House, and, though not immediately. dangerous, it ought to be stopped as soon as possible. 2. There is another consideration which is perhaps of equal importance in another point of view. On the removal of the National Legislature to this city, an act was passed appro- priating forever to the use of the doorkeepers of the two Houses of Congress the buildings erected for the temporary accommodation of the workmen while employed on the Capitol. It was, perhaps, not observed that these buildings stand actually in The Old Building. 133 the street which passes on the south side of the Capitol square and in the Jersey avenue, and thus destroy not only the appearance and regularity of the square and streets, but, being placed high above their level, are a dangerous obstruction to the intercourse around the Capitol. They are, besides, so badly built, and already so rotten, as scarcely to be habitable; and, from being placed on the surface of the vege- table mould, having no cellars, and having a very bad aspect, they are so unhealthy that, of the families who have inhabited them, many have died, and all have been afflicted with severe sickness. Provision will require to be made to carry the inten- tion of the Legislature to provide dwellings for their doorkeepers into effect; and a slight observation of the necessity of a more close attention to the domestic arrange- ments and expenses, and the better government of the servants of the House than at present can possibly be had, would point out a powerful reason for the speedy erection of this part of the building, even if it were not necessary to the support of what is already carried up. Before I close my account of the south wing of the Capitol, I most respectfully beg permission to notice in this report the two objections to the Hall of Congress, which were discovered immediately on the opening of the session — the difficulty of hearing and speaking in it, and the unpleasant effect of the mode adopted to warm the house upon the air of the room. These objections have been forcibly stated and permanently recorded in the speeches of the members, and the appointment of com- mittees for the purpose of inquiry into their cause and remedy; and I crave this permission, not only for the purpose of personal exculpation, but with the hope that the explanation I shall give will prove of public utility in similar cases. In every large room the great average distance of the speaker from the hearer is a cause of difficulty of hearing and speaking which cannot be removed; but the effect of this cause bears no proportion to that indistinctness which arises from the innu- merable echoes that- are reverberated from the walls and arched ceiling of such a room as the Hall of Representatives. These surfaces give back to the ear echoes, not only of the voice of the speaker, at a q>erceptible distance of time from the original sound, but also distinct echoes of every accidental noise and separate conversation in the house and lobbies, and renders debate very laborious to the speaker and almost useless to the hearers. This defect was foreseen; and, in furnishing the house, the curtains and draperies of the windows were made as ample as propriety would admit; draperies were hung in other proper situations, and a large curtain closed the opening of the columns behind the speaker’s chair. But all this drapery bore a small pro- portion to the extent of uncovered surface, though it rendered those particular situations of the hearer, thus freed from echo, superior to all others. If the dimensions of a room, erected for the purpose of debate, were so moderate that the echoes of the voice of the speaker could reach the ear of the hearer, without the intervention of a perceptible distance of time, then the echo would strengthen and support the voice; and we find that this is actually the case in small lecture rooms, expressly constructed to produce innumerable echoes. But there is a cir- cumstance attending halls of debate which distinguishes them from rooms intended for the lectures of one speaker; the impossibility of preserving perfect silence, and of confining persons to their seats, so as to prevent all sound but that of the speaker’s voice; for it is evident that sounds front all quarters and of all kinds will be re-echoed with perfect impartiality. The Hall of Representatives is one hundred and ten feet long from’ east to west, and fifty-five feet high; therefore, before the echo of a sound issuing from the centre of the floor, can return to its place it must travel one hundred and ten feet, a distance very perceptible to the ear in the return of echo. The distance will be still greater if the speaker be placed at a distance from the hearer. And as the walls, in their various breaks, return each a separate echo, their confusion must necessarily render it almost impossible + o understand what is spoken. 134 Documentary History of the Capitol. From these plain facts it is evident that the walls of every large hall of debate should be covered with tapestry, or other material which does not reverberate sound. On reference to the original drawing it will be seen that this was intended, but neither the time nor the extent of the appropriation for furniture, which proved insufficient, for the indispensible articles of carpeting, tables, chairs, desks, and cur- tains, would admit it. A committee being appointed by the House to inquire into the causes and remedy of the difficulty of hearing and speaking, the foregoing facts and reasonings were laid before them; and it was proposed to suspend curtains between the columns round the whole internal area of the house, and others behind the seats of the gal- leries, and to paint the ceiling in flock. The proposal was approved, and has been executed as far as it could be done by hanging all the curtains; the painting of the ceiling must be postponed until the house rises. The fullest success attended this measure; and, although the echoes of the ceiling produce in the centre of the house some confusion of sound, it is a small inconvenience, which will be removed. When the size of this room is considered, it may be safely asserted that it is now as little liable to objection as any other hall of debate in the United States; that it is in all respects superior to most others, and that, when the proposed improvements, which are of comparatively small import, are made, it will be second to none in every legis- lative convenience. Another inconvenience has been felt, especially by some of the members, from the effect of the stoves by which the hall is warmed upon the air of the room, especially when the house and galleries have been crowded. The mouths of these stoves are in the office story below the hall, and a cavity being contrived of from three to five feet deep, below the platforms on which the seats are placed, the flues in this cavity wind to the extent of two hundred feet before they pass into the chimney. When the session was first opened the flues and walls were damp; the fire was injudiciously forced by the servants of the house, and the heat and steam was not only unpleasant, but highly injurious to the health of many of the members; part of this inconvenience diminished as the flues became drier, and less fire was made. But, in order to renew the air of the house, the external air has been freely admitted into the cavity of the flues, and a ventilator is made in the roof. The principle on which these stoves are constructed is not new, and it has been so often and so successfully put into practice that, when every proposed improvement is made, and the building has become dry, there can be little, if any, doubt of its being productive of no inconvenience whatever to any individual member of the house. 2. North wing of the Capitol. The appropriation made at the last session of Congress had, for its principal object, such a repair of the house, and especially of the roof and gutters, as should keep out the weather and prevent the danger arising from the frequent falling down of the plastering of the ceilings. It was late in the season before the weather permitted any part of the roof to be stripped* for examination, and, when this was done in the centre of the building, all the timbers were found in such a state of decay that no part of them could be suffered to remain in their place. The decay was not, however, confined to the timbers of the roof; the floors down to the groundfloor were discovered to be in the same state. The floors and ceiling of the Senate cham- ber and library being also rotten, it was judged most prudent and necessary to begin with a thorough repair of the centre from the foundation, and not to disturb these apartments, the use of which could not be dispensed with the ensuing session; for, had the roof of the Senate chamber been opened, no exertions could have com- pleted the repairs in proper time, while the south wing called for all the workmen which by any means we could collect. Besides, the permanent repairs and alter- ations proposed for the centre of the house were of such a nature as to stop the leakage of every other part of the house; and it was, therefore, executed in the most permanent manner, and on the principles on which the south wing has been built. The Old Building. 135 All the timber floors, and galleries of the centre lobbies were taken up, and the work carried up by solid vaulting in brick from the foundation of the house to the top of the dome; a staircase, much wanted, was made to lead into the fuel cellars; and arched galleries constructed, giving access into the rooms in the third story, which have never been finished, but which will be highly useful apartments whenever the wing shall be completed. In the great staircase the old wooden skylight and cove was entirely taken down, and a solid brick cupola turned over this large area of forty-five by thirty-five feet, and crowned by a lantern light. The stairs themselves remain in the same danger- ous and decayed state in which they were found, but they have been properly secured for the present. All that could be done with the rest of the roof was to put it in the best repair that was practicable without stripping it. But it cannot be denied that all the tim- bers of the house, especially those parts that are inserted into the walls, are in a state of the most dangerous decay; and, as far as the ceilings and floor have been opened, the dry rot is found to have possession, and to be making progress. It appears, therefoi'e, unavoidable that a, thorough repair of the whole house, upon the perma- nent construction of the work of the last season, should be pursued, more especially as the accommodation of the Senate and of the courts is very far from being con- venient to the despatch of public business. On this head I beg leave to refer to my report of last year, and will now only state once more my opinion that the present chamber of the Senate cannot be considered as altogether safe, either as to the plas- tering, of which the columns and entablature consist, or as to its floor and ceiling. 3. Besides the work executed in the buildings themselves, a large sum has been expended in rendering them safe from injury, and accessible to the members. The quantity of earth to be removed in front of the south wing, and the ground to be raised to the southward and eastward, was considerable. A permanent drain was required to prevent the wash of the hill on which the building stands to the south of the circular road, and the road leading to the house was to be raised and covered with gravel. On the north the main drain was carried away by the heavy rains of the season. This drain has, for some years past, been an annual source of expense and incon- venience; it is now durably constructed. Nothing has been done which did not appear unavoidable, or done in a manner to require further alteration and expense; and although all the work which does not properly belong to the building itself has been expensive, the objects of the expense have been permanently effected. * * * The state of the south wing of the capitol has enabled me to make a complete measurement of all the work of every kind performed, at the principal object of expenditure since the year 1803, and not only in respect to that work, but in every other department of the buildings; I have obtained settlements of accounts and measurements up to the present period, and also correct valuations of all the work lying contiguous to the buildings in a state of greater or less preparation. From hence, by favor of the superintendent of the city, I am enabled to lay before you a statement of all the expenditures and outstanding claims up to the present time, which may be considered as correct; the unascertained and unsettled accounts being of very small amount and importance, and capable of tolerably correct estimation. From' this statement it will appear that the outstanding claims are of very consid- erable amount in the aggregate; an amount which could only have been reduced by leaving the works in an unfinished and useless state. In respect to the south wing of the capitol, no consideration of the risk of future appropriation operated with the workmen who have so long and so faithfully labored at the public buildings, to induce them to stop when it was known that the appropriation was exhausted, and by this means very large sums have become due to two of the principal and most respectable persons engaged in the work. Another increase of expenditure, not as 186 Documentary History of the Capitol. yet properly chargeable to any branch of the work, has been incurred by the very evident utility, if not absolute necessity, of supplying the public with particular kinds of ironmongery and glass, of which it was evident that no supply on reasonable terms would shortly he attainable. This swells the amount of the deficit very greatly, although the value of the materials on hand would be greater than is stated if sold at the market price. I have, in the first instance, charged all deficiencies not spe- cially stated to its proper appropriation to the south wing of the capital, and, in the general account current, which I subjoin, I have given the proper credits for materials on hand, and moneys advanced to collateral uses. 1. South wing of the Capitol. Appropriation for 1807 $25, 000 Amount of all outstanding claims not specially stated below. $40, 598 19 From which deduct this sum in hand $2, 167 00 Due from the contingent funds of the offices of State, War, Navy, and the Dost Office" 3,218 65 Deficit on the south wing and on general charges 35, 212 54 $35, 212 54 $40,598 1 9 2. North wing of the Capitol. Appropriation of 1807 $25,000 Expenditures in 1808. — Settled accounts $22, 388 49 Unsettled accounts 402 01 Proportion of salaries of the surveyor of public buildings and clerk of the works, charged to the south wing heretofore. . 2, 050 00 $24, 840 50 Cash in hand 159 50 $25, 000 00 * * * 5. Furniture of the south wing of the Capitol. In my former report I stated the sum required to furnish the House to be $20,000. This estimate did not include the expense of new desks, because, from the best inform mation I could obtain, the old desks were supposed applicable to the new House. But the frequent removals of the platforms, and the erroneous opinions of those who had made them, led into error; and, when the session was closed and the desks removed, it was found utterly impracticable either to place the desks on the new platforms, or to accommodate the platforms to the desks, without destroying all con- venience within the House. New desks have therefore been made. In other respects, the estimate was founded on very simple data, as the numbers of tables, curtains, blinds, chairs, and bookcases, and the quality and quantity of the carpeting, and of the ironmongery, could not be so varied as to make any material difference in the expense; and on inspection, I trust it will be found that no unnecessary furniture has been introduced into the House or committee rooms. The amount of appropriation Avas $17, 000 Expenditure on new' desks $ 2, 164 66 On all the articles included in the estimate 19, 051 68 $21, 216 34 Deficit, $ 4, 216 34 a This sum Avas laid out in the year 1S06. Avhen, by the falling in of the old drains, and the filling of the cellars Avith water, the offices became unhealthy; and it was absolutely necessary to remedy the evil or desert the buildings. I have stated it below' as a deficit, as it has not yet been repaid. The Old Building. 137 RECAPITULATION. 1. South wing of the capitol $35, 212 54 2. To make good the sum loaned to the public offices. 3, 218 65 * * * Estimate for the year 1808. To make good the deficit of 1807, including the debt due from the public offices $51, 500 00 To execute the work deficient in the south wing 11, 500 00 To carry up that part of the west front which is necessary to secure the northwest angle of the south wing 15, 000 00 To carry up, in solid work, the interior of the wing, comprising the Senate chamber 25, 000 00 I now beg leave to add a statement of the actual expenditures on the north and south wings of the capitol, up to the present time. 1. South wing of the Capitol. Expended from April, 1803, up to January 1st, 1807, including the pulling down and rebuilding the work formerly erected, $216,061 47f Cash on hand, 1807, $11, 000 00 Appropriation, 1807, 25, 000 00 Deficit, 1808, 35, 212 54 71,212 54 $287, 274 01J $1, 000 2, 000 3, 000 1,500 1, 500 1,383 2, 050 12, 433 00 Actual cost of the south wing, $274,841 OH 2. — North wing of the Capitol. Expended on the north wing of the capitol, prior to 1803, including the foundations of the south wing and centre. $337, 735 38 From this sum deduct the full value of the above founda- tions 30, 000 00 $307, 735 38 Expended in 1803 3,301 75 Expended in 1807 24, 840 50 Total cost of the north wing $335,877 63 All which is most respectfully submitted, by your faithful humble servant, B. Henry Latrobe, Surveyor of the public buildings of the United States. To the President of tiie United States. Per contra. Materials on hand, Crown glass, Plate glass and ironmongery, Sheet iron, for roofing, Scaffolding and utensils, Freestone, Glass and lead used in other parts of the works, not yet charged to their account, Proportion of salaries chargeable to the north wing, 188 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House proceedings of April 5, 1808; Annals of Congress, 10-1, p. 1973.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. Mr. Stanford, from a select committee, to whom the President’s Message, on the state of the public buildings in the City of Washington, was referred, asked leave to report a bill. This was opposed by Mr. D. R. Williams, but it was agreed to, forty- nine to thirty-five. Mr. S. then reported a bill making an appropriation to cover an unauthorized expenditure of fifty-one thousand dollars upon the south wing of the Capitol, and appropriating a further sum to complete the same. The bill was read the first time, and a motion made that it pass to a second reading. Mr. Randolph hoped not; and for reasons which he trusted would be satisfactory to all. When the revenue of the United States was suspended, when credit was ex- tended on custom-house bonds, it was no time for a wanton waste of the public money. Fifty thousand dollars have been expended on this Capitol beyond the appropria- tion for that purpose. If you make good this deficit, you may also for five hundred thousand or five million dollars. The officer has gone into an immense expenditure, which is in every point of view illegal and unjustifiable. It is enough for us to make good the expenditures which the Executive chooses to incur for the public good on his own responsibility; but to make good what a private agent has expended, I will never consent. If this is done, there is an end to appropriation laws. This expense has been incurred, not by the Executive, not by the Head of a Department, but by a somebody whom we do not know. The gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Stanford) has presented a naked bill, where we ought to have had an elaborate report. Whosoever has done this thing must be responsible to the United States. Take a plain case. You employ a workman to build a house for one thousand pounds. He chooses for some reason to lay out more without consulting you. He alone is responsible to those whom he engages; you have nothing to do with the extra expense. If this bill was agreed to, Mr. R. said, he must consider all control over the expenditure of public money as absolutely abandoned. The sum in question is not a great thing for this great nation; but, as Hotspur says, “in a matter of account I would cavil at the ninth part of a hair.” Fifty thousand dollars is a smart item in an account. It is more than the whole expense of some State governments. Our chief resources are cut off, and it behooves us to husband our means as carefully as possible. Though the sum is not so great, yet the precedent is of infinitely greater consequence than five millions of dollars. Mr. R. concluded, by moving to reject the bill. Mr. Stanford lamented that so much business had lately been thrown into the hands of the public printers that the report of the Superintendent of Public Build- ings, which would present a proper view of this subject, had not been yet printed for the use of the House. He, Mr. S., had been himself in favor of a detailed report; but a majority of the committee thought otherwise, and instructed him to present a bill, as the shortest and best way of getting rid of a bad business. The workmen, said Mr. S., had, after a fair warning by the Superintendent, proceeded at their own risk. He would himself go no further than to make good the deficit; but objectionable as that was in principle, he would agree to it; there was a sore which wanted a plaster. Mr. Lewis had been a member of the committee who reported this bill. He did not understand it to be the opinion of the committee that a naked bill should be reported, because it was the best way to get rid of a bad business. He conceived the faith of the Government pledged to make good this deficit, inasmuch as it was pledged to complete this room. Congress were convened at an early period, and they wanted a room to meet in. The sum appropriated was found insufficient to com- plete the Representative Hall, and the surveyor and workmen thought it best to The Old Building. 139 proceed on their own responsibility, and throw themselves on Congress. Mr. L. hoped the bill would not, contrary to all usage and custom, be prematurely rejected in this stage. Mr. Dana conceived it proper to reject a bill only when it was so exceptionable, and contained such a palpable absurdity that it ought not to be deliberated upon. Is this such a bill? [Here Mr. D read an extract from Mr. Jefferson’s Message at the first session of the seventh Congress, in which he insisted on the necessity of “appro- priating specific sums for every specific purpose, and disallowing all applications of money varying ‘ from the appropriation in object, on transcending it in amount.”] The doctrine here advanced, Mr. D. said, had always appeared to him erroneous and not economical. It has been renounced in practice; it has been completely renounced this very session. There may be instances in which a public officer may do right in expending money, and throw himself on the Government; he may deserve commendation for this conduct. Mr. D. concluded with saying that he did not give any intimation of his final opinion on examining the subject further; but he was clearly for having the bill go to a second reading. Mr. Eppes agreed that the Superintendent had grossly abused his trust, and was at 'first disposed to reject the hill; but as many dependent and innocent tradesmen and mechanics would he ruined by it, he hoped the bill would he suffered for the present to lie on the table, and a further inquiry made into the circumstances of the case before a decision. Mr. Randolph consented to this course, though he should renew his motion to reject the bill whenever the subject was called up. He was willing to indemify individuals who might suffer, by referring their petitions to the Committee of Claims, and pay their just demands out of the Treasury. Mr. R. remarked that artists were not very nice calculators in money matters. He was not, therefore, surprised at the conduct of the Surveyor of Public Buildings. Mr. R. spoke very highly of him as an architect, and thought the Pennsylvania Bank displayed an excellent taste, and the Representative hall did great honor to his abilities. Mr. Eppes varied his motion, and moved to recommit the bill to the committee who reported it, .with instructions to report a statement of circumstances, and to inquire into the expediency of abolishing the office of Surveyor of the Public Buildings. Mr. D. R. Williams, in a speech of some length, severely condemned the conduct of the Surveyor of Public Buildings in making the expenditure in question, and spoke of his ‘ ‘ outrageous audacity ’ ’ in lately altering the arrangement of the Repre- sentative Hall in respect to the entrance to the galleries. Mr. Stedman hoped the bill would be recommitted. He regretted that the com- mittee had not presented to the House, wdth the bill, a detailed report on the sub- ject, that it might now have proceeded in the ordinary course. Much has been said on the subject of specific appropriations, and of the impropriety of exceeding them on any objects of expenditure. Mr. S. respected the doctrine laid down on that sub- ject, as referred to by the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Dana,) but, though it proceeded from high authority, it has been since found to be impracticable, and he believed it would appear to have been given up by the same authority. That Mr. S. might present to the House the old and the new doctrines distinctly, so that the con- trast may the more strikingly appear, he begged leave to read the same passage from the President’s first Message to the seventh Congress, which was read by his friend from Connecticut, (Mr. Dana:) * * * Mr. S. hoped that the committee in their report, and the House in considering it, would be governed by the doctrine last laid down, and in mercy to those the value of whose labors on the public buildings had exceeded the sum appropriated to those objects, would provide for their payment. The question was then taken on Mr. Eppes’ s motion to recommit the bill, and car- 140 Documentary History of the Capitol. lied. The committee were instructed to report a statement of facts, and also to inquire into the expediency of abolishing the office of Surveyor of the Public Build- ings. And the House adjourned. [Annals of Congress, Appendix, 10-1, p. 2790. — Communicated to the House April 21, 1808.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. Mr. Stanford, from the committee to whom was recommitted the bill to make good a deficit in the appropriation of 1807, and to make a further appropriation for completing the south wing of the Capitol, and for other purposes, “ with instruc- tions to make to the House a detailed report of the circumstances which produced the deficit for the public buildings, and how far it may be consistent with the public interest to abolish the office of Surveyor of the Public Buildings,” made the follow- ing report: That they have made every research in their power into the causes and circum- stances which produced the deficit for the public buildings for the year 1807, and find that, by an act of 1802, the offices of the then commissioners of the city were abolished, and the office of Superintendent created; and that on this officer were devolved all the powers and duties which the commissioners had before exercised. The Superintendent is, then, at this time, under the general control and direction of the President, the only proper officer to disburse the moneys, and through whose hands must pass all accounts and other charges upon the funds of the city. So soon, therefore, as it appeared to him probable the appropriations of the year 1807, par- ticularly that for the south wing of the Capitol, might be exceeded, he did not fail to suggest his fears, and to give to the Surveyor of Public Buildings due precaution against such consequence. All this may appear in more satisfactory detail in a letter from the Superintendent, which accompanies this report, to which the committee beg leave to refer. The Surveyor of the Public Buildings appears not to be an officer recognized by the law, but has been employed and appointed by the President alone, as the principal architect, to design, direct, and combine the whole into one general system, and see to its due execution; and, withal, it appears also to form con- tracts with the different subordinate mechanics, and with other persons, for the various materials wanted in the progress of the work. This gentleman, keep- ing mainly in view the more appropriate duties of his own profession, that of executing the work in a style and character which should do honor to his art, and that- of accomplishing it also within a time more limited than had been antici- pated in the earlier part of the season, appears not to have been impressed with the probability (if, indeed, it should be considered as coming within his province to be so, or to guard against such impropriety) that the expenditure would exceed the general appropriations for the different objects of the public work, till it had actually happened so on a principal one, or was certain to do so to a considerable amount; and when thus informed by the Superintendent, and that he (the Super- intendent) should pass no account, as such could not pass the Treasury if he did, which exceeded the funds placed in his hands for such object. At this stage of the business, when Congress was in a few weeks to be in session, the Surveyor laid a state of the case before some of the principal mechanics, and a number of them, to whom the greater part of the excess was likely to be due, voluntarily came forward, and, rather than stop and proceed to the measurement of their work while in an unfinished state, agreed to progress with it at their own risk, and in the fullest con- fidence that Congress would not receive the benefit of their labor without remunera- tion, and that, under the circumstances of the case, an appropriation would be in The Old Building. 141 due time made to indemnify them. A certificate of some of those mechanics to this effect accompanies this report, to which the committee also heg leave to refer. To these considerations may be also added another circumstance which contributes to the largeness of the present deficit. In the appropriation of the year 1806, a con- siderable deficit also occurred, (which, too, had grown, in part, out of a train of deficits of years still preceding, ) the accounts for which, as the Superintendent in his letter states, were not presented in form to him for payment till in the year 1807, and were accordingly paid out of the appropriations of that year. Thus, then, the deficit of the last year, (if fair to estimate the probable amount of all preceding deficits, and to take also into view a considerable quantity of materials remaining now on hand for future public use, ) the actual amount of w'hat seems to be the pres- ent deficit would be greatly diminished. The committee, however, feel it their duty to say that the Surveyor of Public Buildings appears to have pursued the duties coming within the scope of his professional business and charge with a laudable zeal, and with an integrity which not a shadow of reason appears to them to question. As to the propriety of abolishing the office of Surveyor of Public Buildings, the committee, not finding such an officer recognised by law, cannot perceive how' the President, under whose general control all the public -works of the city are conducted, can dispense with the employment of some such principal architect. If he can, it is now', and will be at other times, in his power to do so. It is an office, indeed, which must cease with the appropriations that sustain it. Upon the whole, the committee not having been able to discover that the sacred principle of the Constitution, which enjoins that no money shall be drawn from the Treasury but in consequence of appropriations made bylaw', has been at all violated; and although a debt has been incurred, and the public faith in a manner pledged beyond the real amount of actual appropriation in the present instance, believe the whole has happened under circumstances forming an apology not slight in its nature, and the force of which, it may be presumed, the House will at once see. They, therefore, beg leave, with the accompanying documents, to offer the same bill which they before reported to the House. Superintendent’s Office, Washington, April 15, 1808. Sir: In reply to your letter requiring “information of the circumstances which produced the deficit in the appropriation for the Public Buildings,” I have the honor to state that the moneys which have been appropriated for these buildings, and the w'ays between the same, have been placed in my hands by the President of the United States, to be disbursed under his direction, and accounted for with the Treasury Department; that, in the execution of this agency, 1 was obliged, by its nature and necessary connexion with the duties and province of the architect or surveyor of the W'orks, to rely very much on him, as well in certifying and attesting claims for mate- rials and workmanship, as in so regulating our operations that the cost of the work of each season should be commensurate with or within the limit of the appropriation made to cover it; and the state of the funds w r as, for that purpose, from time to time, communicated to the architect. This system was pursued with the desired effect until the close of the year 1806, when, after the appropriation of that year had been wholly disbursed, and my accounts made up, I found there were some unsatisfied claims, but supposed the amount was as small as could be expected in transactions of that kind and extent. In that supposition, however, I w r as disappointed; for it appears that a considerable portion of the appropriation for 1807 (which I understood and expected was made as adequate only to cover the works of that year) has been paid for prior claims, though not presented to me till 1807. This circumstance, and the state of our funds 142 Documentary History of the Capitol. early last Fall, convinced me that the then unexpended balance would be insufficient for effecting the contemplated objects of the season, particularly that the portion of that balance applicable to the south wing of the Capitol would fall short of preparing it for the reception of the Representatives, without incurring debt, and I accordingly apprized the architect of my apprehensions; and then, as well as often subsequently, gave him a view of the funds, and invited his attention thereto, from time to time, so as to avoid unauthorized debts by exceeding the appropriations, which would not only be a violation of a principle of Government which could not be too sacredly regarded, but would also be in contravention of the strict and often repeated injunction of the President of the United States, never to let the cost of the work of any season exceed the amount of the appropriation. The Surveyor was doubtless fully impressed with the necessity and propriety of being governed by these obligations and considerations of duty, and stated that he hoped and believed that, when the account of the south wing should be justly credited with various articles wholly charged, when purchased, to that account, but afterward partially applied to other objects and uses, there would be found fairly appli- cable to that wing a sum nearly, if not quite, sufficient to put it into a state of timely preparation for the ensuing session of Congress; but that the little time within which a great deal of work was to be done would not admit of making such measurements and returns as would show the precise state of things before the close of the season. The south wing fund soon after appeared on the face of my books to be wholly disbursed, and I declined charging any further sums to that fund; but, in conse- quence of the assurance of the Surveyor that it would be entitled, as before stated, to considerable credits, I made advances, on account of many persons who had mixed claims, out of the north wing fund, and in that way kept the workmen together, and the work progressing until Congress met, and time was afforded for an appor- tionment and separation of those mixed transactions, and an accurate arrangement of all the accounts. By these, as taken from the measurements and certified returns of the Surveyor, it appears that a much larger debt or deficit has been incurred than he had, I believe, ever conceived, certainly than he ever expressed to me an idea of. This error of misconception of the amount of debt, was, in a great degree, caused by the circumstance of an immense amount of stonecutters’ and other work done by contract not having been previously measured, in consequence of difficulty alleged to attend the measurement of such work in a progressive and unfinished state. Payments on account to a large amount had been made to these contractors, on estimates certified to me, from time to time, and known by all parties to be within the amount due; but until accurate measurements were made, none of us supposed the balances due from the public were so large. I have only to add, that, although this excess is only now discovered, it may fairly be considered as arising out.of the works of five years, amounting to between three and four hundred thousand dollars, and of a nature and magnitude hardly suscepti- ble of precision or exactness, in all their unforeseen and various ramifications. It is also a just consideration that, in the amount of that excess, is included materials now on hand and ready for public use, but which, if put into market, would reim- burse a large portion of the deficit. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, sir, your most obedient servant, Thomas Munroe. Hon. Richard Stanford. Washington, April 5, 1808. Sir: At your request, we whose names are hereunto subscribed, willingly state that, in the course of the year 1807, and a considerable time previous to the completion of the public works on which we were engaged, we were apprized that the appro- priation of moneys*by Congress was exhausted, and that we proceeded in the execu- tion of the work committed to us, in full confidence that, unless our work were The Old Building. 143 insufficiently or unfaithfully performed, we should not be permitted by the National Legislature to lose the reward of our labor or the value of our materials. George Blagden, Stonecutter, Thomas Machen, Stonemason, S. Meads, Foreman of carpenters, Henry Ingle, Cabinetmaker and ironmonger, Griffith Coombe, Lumber merchant. B. Henry Latrobe, Esq., Surveyor of the Public Buildings U S. at Washington. The principal part of the workmen are at present absent from the city. B. H. Latrobe. [House proceedings of April 23, 1808: Annals of Congress, 10 — 1, p. 2272.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The House then went into a Committee of the Whole on the bill making appro- priation to supply the deficit In the appropriation for the public buildings for the year 1807, and for other purposes. The bill having gone through the Committee of the Whole, after filling up the blanks for the deficit, and for a small sum for finishing the wall round the Presi- dent’s House, and refusing to make an appropriation for the ensuing year, for other purposes, the Committee rose and reported the bill. * * * The House resumed the consideration of the amendments reported from the Com- mittee of the Whole to the bill to make good a deficit in the appropriation of eighteen hundred and seven, and to make further appropriation for completing the south wing of the Capitol, and for other purposes: Whereupon, the first amendment reported from the Committee of the Whole to fill up the first blank in the bill with the words fifty-one thousand five hundred dollars, was agreed to by the House — yeas 75, nays 14, as follows: * * * The other amendments reported from the Committee of the Whole being again read, the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth amendments were agreed to, and the second amendment was, on the question put thereupon, disagreed to by the House. The said bill was then further amended and, together with the amendments agreed to, ordered to be engrossed, and read the third time this day. [House proceedings of April 25, 1808: Annals of Congress, 10 — 1, pp. 2276.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The engrossed bill to supply the deficit in the appropriations for the public build- ings, being read the third time, Mr. Randolph called for the yeas and nays upon it. Mr. Randolph then opposed the bill at some length, on account of its infringing, as he conceived, every principle of the Constitution and the law; for if this were to be permitted, they might as well open the Treasury and dismiss their accounting officers at once. Messrs. Holland, Stanford, and Smilie, replied; they conceived that the Superin- tendent, acting under a resolution of the House to prepare the room for the next meeting, had done his duty by preparing it; and was at least justifiable in having acted so. The question was then taken, and the bill was passed, 73 to 8, as follows: * * * [Senate proceedings of April 25, 1808: Annals of Congress, 10—1, p. 379.] A message from the House of Representatives informed the Senate that they have passed a bill, entitled “An act to make good a deficit in the appropriation of 1807, 144 Documentary History of the Capitol. and to make a further appropriation for completing the south wing of the Capitol, and for other purposes;” in which they request the concurrence of the Senate. The bill was twice read. On motion, by Mr. Reed, to strike out of the first section the following words: “for completing the wall of the President’s house, planting the ground, so as to close this part of the expenditure, building a solid flight of steps to the principal door, and minor expenses, fourteen thousand dollars:” it passed in the negative — yeas 3, nays 18, as follows: * * * On motion, by Mr. Gregg, to insert, at the end of the first section, these words: “For executing the work deficient in the interior of the south wing, and painting, eleven thousand five hundred dollars:” it passed in the affirmative — yeas 17, nays 4, as follows: * * * And the bill having been further amended, the President reported it to the House accordingly, and it was agreed that the bill pass to the third reading as amended. The bill was then read a third time, and passed. [House proceedings of Apr. 25, 1808: Annals of Congress, 10 — 1, 2279.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The bill for making appropriations to supply the deficit in the appropriation for public buildings, was returned from the Senate with amendments. The first amendment, allowing twenty-five thousand dollars to carry up the solid work in the interior of the north wing, being under consideration— Mr. Stanford moved to strike out that sum and insert twelve thousand five hun- dred dollars — negatived. The amendment of the Senate was then agreed to, 48 to 22. The next amendment, for appropriating a sum for drains, bridges, highways, &c., was negatived, 42 to 26. The next amendment, of eleven thousand dollars for finishing the interior of the south wing, being under consideration — Mr. Stanford said, as they seemed willing to do a part, they had as well agree to the whole, and appropriate fifteen thousand dollars also for securing the northwest angle of the south wing, and moved accordingly — negatived. The amendment of the Senate was then agreed to, 52 to 21. [Senate proceedings of April 25, 1808: Annals of Congress, 10 — 1, p. 380.] FIVE O’CLOCK, P. M. A message from the House informed the Senate that the House agree to some, and disagree to others of the amendments of the Senate to the act entitled “An act to make good a deficit in the appropriation of eighteen hundred and seven, for com- pleting the public buildings, and for other purposes.” The Senate proceeded to consider their amendment to the bill, entitled “An act to make good a deficit in the appropriation of eighteen hundred and seven, for com- pleting the public buildings, and for other purposes,” disagreed to by the House of Representatives; Whereupon, Resolved, That they recede from their said amendment. [“An Act to make good a deficit in the appropriation of eighteen hundred and seven, for completing the public buildings, and for other purposes,” approved Apr. 25, 1808. (Stats, at Large, v. 2, 499.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That, in addition to the appropriations already made, the fol- lowing sums of money be, and the same are hereby, appropriated, to be applied, The Old Building. 145 under the direction of the President of the United States, to the purposes hereinafter mentioned, that is to say: For making good the deficit of eighteen hundred and seven, including the debt due from the public offices, fifty-one thousand five hundred dollars. * * * For carrying up, in solid work, the interior of the north wing, comprising the Sen- ate chamber, twenty-five thousand dollars. For executing the work deficient in the interior of the south wing, and for paint- ing, eleven thousand five hundred dollars. Sec. 2. And be it farther enacted, That the several sums of money hereby appro- priated, shall be paid out of any money in the treasury not otherwise appropriated. LMss.: Letters of the Presidents of the United States, p. 157: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Washington April 25, 1808. Sir, I took a note last night of the appropriations of the Bill for the public build- ings, they are as follows. For Debts For the wall round the President’s square Planting the grounds. Steps at the principal entrance South wing, finishing North wing “so as to close this part of the expenditure” 51,400 D. 14.000. D. 11,500. D.— 25.000. D.— - We will consider these heads singly. Debts . — Under this head is to be considered all work done before the date of the Act; so that all accounts should be immediately settled up to April 25, and paid out of this fund. What is done from this day forward is to be charged to the New 7 Appropriations. * * * South wing . — You best know' what is to be done here, but I would advise the dif- ferent branches of the w 7 ork to be done successively, paying off each before another is begun. North wing, to be begun immediately and so pressed as to be finished this season. 1, vault with brick the cellar story; 2, leave the present Senate Chamber exactly in it’s present state; 3, lay a floor where the Gallery now is to be the floor of the future Senate Chamber. Upon it above to the roof to give it elevation enough, leaving the present columns uninjured, until we see that every thing else being done & paid for, there remains enough to make these columns of stone. You see, my Dear Sir, that the object of this cautious preceding is to prevent the possibility of a deficit of a single Dollar this year. The lesson of the last year has been a serious one, is has done you great injury, & has been much felt by myself — it was so contrary to the principles of our Government, which make the representatives of the people the sole arbiters of the public expense, and do not permit any work to be forced on them on a larger scale than their judgment deems adopted to the cir- cumstances of the Nation. I give to Mr. Monroe a copy of this letter, that he may conform his warrants to it — matters of detail may be the subject of verbal consultation between us before I leave this which will be on the 5th of May. I salute you with esteem and respect, Th. Jefferson. p g * * * Mr. Latrobe. H. Rep. 646 10 146 Documentary History of tlxe Capitol. [Message from the President of the United States, transmitting a report of the Surveyor of the Public Buildings of the United States, in the city of Washington, Dec. 1, 1808. (10—2, House Ex. Docs.)] MESSAGE. To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States. I transmit to both houses of congress, a report from the surveyor of the public buildings, of the progress made in them during the last season, of their present state, of the expenditures incurred, and of those which may be requisite for their further prosecution. Th: Jeffeeson. December 1 , 1808. Report. To the President of the United States. The report of the surveyor of the public buildings of the United States, in the city of Wash- ington, November 18, 1808. Sir, The several appropriations made at the last session of congress, for the progress of the work on the public buildings, have, during the late recess of the legislature, been applied to their specific objects in the manner which I now beg leave to report to you. I. South Wing of the Capitol. In this wing, all the wood work and the covering of the roof have been painted; the iron railing of the vestibule and stairs has been provided; the sculptors have been diligently employed in the interior of the hall upon the figures of the frieze on the cornice, and the capitals of the columns. The ceiling has been painted in a mas- terly manner by Mr. George Bridport of Philadelphia; the lobbies of the house have been finished, and the inconveniences experienced during the last session have been obviated by a great variety of improvements in detail. II. North Wing of the Capitol. The appropriation for this wing has been specifically applied agreeably to the words of the act, to carry up, in solid worh, the interior of the north wing, comprising the senate chamber, according to the design submitted to congress, in the year 1806, and partly executed in 1807. This design, presuming that the brick-work of the building could be depended upon, did not contemplate the removal of the brick arcade surrounding the senate chamber. But on opening the floors, every part of the wood-work was found to be much more decayed than was ever apprehended, so that no one floor in the whole building could be considered as safe. Scarcely a single principal girder or beam was entirely sound, the tenants of the oak joists were generally rotten, and the only species of timber, which had at all withstood decay, was the pine and poplar of which the beams and the pillars were made. All the white oak was seized by the dry rot, and even the trusses of oak, let into sound beams of pine, were far advanced in decay. a Almost all the plates and bond timber, which were partly buried in the walls, were in the interior reduced to powder; and even many of the pine posts, over which the lathed and plaistered columns of the Senate chamber were formed, were rotten. Upon the most decayed part of such timber the back piers of the senate chamber stood; they were admirably constructed; but of seven superficial feet, which each of them occupied, five feet had no other foundation to rest upon. Independently of this general rottenness of the timber, the frequent alterations which the design had a The state of the timber generally, may be observed as it lies near the building in a situation open to inspection. The Old Budding. 147 undergone during its original progress, had weakened the work, and one o£ the most heavy walls had been so cut down in its lower part, that whenever the timber had given way, the top must have fallen into the senate chamber. It became therefore necessary to go down to the very foundation, to take down and rebuild the arcade, now a part of the court room, and to carry up the whole work solidly from the bottom of the cellar. All this was accomplished about the middle of September; but on the 19th of that month, the floor of the senate cham- ber, with the vault of the court room, which supported it, fell in; and though no other part of the work, except the cellar arches below, was thereby damaged; and the value of the loss suffered in labour and materials did not exceed $800, yet the death of Mr. Lenthall, clerk of the works, who was buried in the ruins, renders this accident a most serious misfortune to the public; for to his consummate skill as a mechanic, and to his unimpeachable integrity, the public are indebted, in a great measure, for the perfect execution which characterizes the works erected since the year 1803. The cause of this accident is to be found in the manner in which the level floor of the senate was raised upon the back of the vault; in the construction of which my better judgment yielded to arguments of economy. Since this accident, progress has been made in rebuilding this vault in a safer, though less expeditious manner; and in a few weeks of the next season all may be restored. In addition to the apartments of the senate, a stone stairs has been executed by Mr. George Blagden, in a style of very superior workmanship. -x- -x- -x- The appropriations being now nearly exhausted, the work must soon be closed and the workmen discharged, unless it should please the legislature to proceed further towards the completion of the public buildings. I, therefore, beg leave to submit the following, Statement and estimate of the work, proposed for the next season. I. South Wing op the Capitol. To continue the work on the capitals of the columns of the house of representatives, to defray expense of repairs of glass, and minor repairs; to procure strong American glass for the large windows of the hall, which have been imperfectly glazed, and independently of the inconvenience, are liable to frequent breakage: and to put up 10 deficient chimney pieces, will be required $6,000 I beg leave to remark that this sum includes the salaries of the Italian Sculptors engaged by contract in the service of the United States, and who, when no longer employed, are to.be sent home at the public expense. The future annual expense of this wing will not exceed 5000$ II. North wing of the Capitol, apartments of the Senate. The apartments of the senate consist of 1. The senate chamber. 2. The vestibule in the centre of the house. 3. The lobby or withdrawing room. 4. 5. The secretary’s office, 2 rooms, one for the records. 6, 9. Four committee rooms: two on a level with the floor of the senate, two above stairs. 10, 11. The gallery stairs, and committee room staircase. 12. The passage to the lobby and cloak room. 13, 16. Three store rooms above stairs. 18, 19. The lower entrance and principal stairs. All these apartments may be completely finished by the middle of August next. All these rooms are ready for the plaisterer excepting the senate chamber and the 148 Documentary ID story of the Capitol. rooms in the recess, which are to be rebuilt from the foundation, being the most rotten part of the remaining building, except the library. These works will require, independently of furniture, $20,000. 3. Library and offices of judiciary on the west side of the north wing. The room now containing the library is much too small for the books already pur- chased, which are obliged to be piled up in heaps; and unless immediate steps be taken to complete the permanent accommodations for the library, the utmost embarrassment will ensue. This and the rotten state of the west side of the north wing, which remains untouched, induces me to propose immediate measures to this effect. An appropriation of $25,000 will carry up the whole of this side of the house solidly, complete the staircase, and after the next session, the library may be fitted up and receive the books before the session of 1810-11. The library will consist of, besides a private reading room for the members of the legislature, the great library, which is calculated to contain not less than 40,000 books against its walls in three stages or galleries; and two store-rooms for unbound books, pamphlets, and deposited copies of the laws. The apartments of the judiciary will be, 1. The court room. 2. The judges’ chamber for consultation and library. 3. The office of the marshal. 4. do. of the clerk of the supreme court. 5. do. of the clerk of the circuit do. 6. 7. Two petit jury rooms. 9, 10. Rooms for record. 11, 13. Lobbies, passages and stairs. I beg leave in one view to exhibit the advantages gained by the alteration of the north wing. The senatorial apartments formerly consisted of, 1. The senate chamber. 2. The secretary’s office. 3. 6. Two committee rooms, one above, one below, and two detached rooms over the entrance. 7, 9. Two large lumber rooms above. 10, 16. Four lobbies, and two stair-cases 14 The court occupies one room 1 15 There are three rooms and a stair-case in the brick part of the wing, which are not proposed at present to be changed. By the alterations is gained, 1. Senatorial apartments 19 2. Judiciary 13 3. Library 11 36 Besides the whole range of cellars formerly useless, neither light nor air being admitted to them. 4. Addition to the north west corner of the south wing. I again beg to point out the necessity of building the north west part of the apart- ments of the house of representatives in the south wing, and to refer to my report of last session. The accumulation of water in the cellars, formerly dug on this spot, which cannot lie prevented, continues to injure the foundation, and a perceptible, though small settlement of this corner has taken place during the present year. The temporary water closets are at present a great nuisance, which can only be removed by, completing this part of the design, which will contain additional committee rooms, one for the standing committee of the district of Columbia, and two others for special committees, for whom no accommodation whatever now exists. This work will require an appropriation of 18,000 dollars. RECAPITULATION. 1. South wing, 2. North do. senate, 3 Do. library and judiciary, 4. North west corner of south wing, -x- a -x- 6, 000 20, 000 25, 000 18, 000 All which is most respectfully submitted. B. Henry Lateobe, Surveyor of the public buildings Of the United States. [Senate proceedings of Dec. 12, 1808: Senate Journal, 10 — 2, p. 307.] Mr. Lloyd submitted the following motion, which was read for consideration: Resolved, That a committee be appointed to ascertain and report to the Senate, the amount which has been already expended by the United States on the public build- ings in the city of Washington; and also, to ascertain as near as may be, the amount which would be required to complete those buildings. [Senate proceedings of Dec. 13, 1808: Senate Journal, 10 — 2, p. 307.] The Senate resumed the consideration of the motion made yesterday respecting the expense of the public buildings. On motion of Mr. Bradley, The motion was amended and agreed to, as follows: Resolved, That a committee be appointed to ascertain and report to the Senate the amount which has been already expended by the United States on the public build- ings in the city of Washington; and, also, to ascertain, as near as may be, the amount which would be required to complete and finish the President’s house & square, and the two wings of the Capitol. Ordered, That Messrs. Bradley] Lloyd, and Smith, of Maryland, be the com- mittee. [Report of the Committee of the Senate appointed to ascertain the expenditures and probable esti mates in relation to the public buildings in the city of Washington, Dec. 21, 1808. (10—2, State Papers.)] In Senate of the United States, December 21st, 1808. Mr. Bradley, from the committee to ascertain the expenditures and probable estimates, in relation to the Public Buildings in the City of Washington, made the following report: The committee, appointed on the loth instant, “to ascertain and report to the Senate, the amount which has been already expended by the United States on the Public Buildings in the City of Washington; and, also, to ascertain, as near as may be, the amount which would be required to complete and finish the President’s house and square, and the two wings of the Capitol” — Submit the following statement from the Superintendent of the City of Washington, of the amount already expended on the Public Buildings, and of the contingent expenses incident thereto — in which is comprised, not only the money expended by the United States, but all which has been applied from any other source, and the fund from which the same is to be reimbursed. 150 Documentary History of the Capitol. The letter from the Surveyor of the Public Buildings, hereto annexed, will shew the estimate of the probable amount which would be required to complete and finish the Public Buildings, which the committee have the horfor to lay before the Senate. Superintendent’s Office, Washington City, 1 6th December , 1808. Sir, In reply to your letter of the 14th instant, I have the honor to state to the committee of which you are chairman, that it appears by the books in this office, that there has been applied to the erecting, altering, and repairing of the public buildings in the City of Washington “from the commencement of the present gov- ernment” to this day, the several sums following: that is to say: North wing of the Capitol, — including the cost of the foundation walls of that wing and the centre, and of the temporary Representatives’ chamber built in the year 1801, on the walls of the South wing, and since removed; together with all other expenditures on the Capitol square prior to the commencement of the south wing in the year 1803. §371, 388. 25 South wing of the Capitol, — including a proportion of the expense of the original foundation walls, and pulling down and removing the same; and also, the cost of various fixtures, and articles of furniture, since the jiresent Representatives’ chamber has been occupied 323, 234. 26 * * * I perceive Sir, by your letter that the foregoing are the only items which you require me to furnish the expense of; but, as there are several others on which the monies that came into the hands of the late board of commissioners (as well those appropriated by the United States as those arising from other sources) were indis- criminately applied, and blended in the accounts thereof, as then kept ; — indeed, as a considerable part of the amount thus applied, is in fact, chargeable to the build- ings, though it stands to the debit of other accounts and cannot now perhaps be justly apportioned, I have supposed that under these circumstances a full and fair statement of all expenditures incidental to, or in consequence of the establishment of the permanent seat of government at this city, made by the commissioners and their successors in office, would be proper and necessary to present to the committee a just view of the subject committed to them, and I accordingly subjoin an account of such objects of expenditure in addition to those enumerated in your letter, as will make that statement complete. They are as follow:— to wit— * * -si- Making the total amount of expenditures $1, 441, 819. 73 Which was derived from the following sources. — to wit: The treasury of the United States, under appropriations by Congress, including appropriations for furniture 550. 000. 00 Donation by the state of Virginia 120, 000. 00 Donation by the state of Maryland 72, 000. 00 Proceeds of the sales of lots, part of those conveyed by the original proprietors to the United States 487, 207. 35 Proceeds of §250,000 six per cent, stock of the United States, borrowed of the State of Maryland, and sold for. . 212, 612. 38 1, 441, 819. 73 * * * I have the honor to be, with high respect, sir, your most obedient servant, Thomas Munroe. The Hon. S. R. Bradley, Chairman of a- Com. of the Senate of the U. S. appointed in relation to the Public Buildings of the City of Washington. The Old Building. 151 To the honorable general Bradley, chairman of the committee of the Senate of the United States, appointed on the 12th of December, 1808, on the subject of the public buildings of the United States. Sir: I have the honor of your letter of the 13th of December, enclosing a resolu- tion of the Senate of the United States of the 12th of December 1808, respecting the public buildings in the city of Washington. On the latter part of this resolution which instructs the committee “to ascertain as nearly as may be, the amount which would be required to complete and finish the President’s house and square, and the two wings of the capitol,” I beg to offer you all the information in my power; the past and current expenditures of the public buildings being placed by the President of the United States under the controul of the superintendent of the city, who possesses every information on that point. Before I enter upon the estimate of future expense, I beg leave to offer to you a few explanations, without which the committee will not be able to understand the objects to which it is proposed to be directed, either in their extent or manner. * * * 2. The Capitol. As to the estimates relating to the capitol, I beg you to receive the following explanations: On receiving my appointment in 1803, I did not find in the office any drawings from which I could judge of the intentions of mj r predecessors. The only paper put into my hands was a ground plan of the capitol unaccompanied by any details from which it could be executed, and not agreeing with the foundations laid; it was there- fore necessary to digest a complete design in detail for the whole building, in which the style adopted in the north wing was necessarily preserved in the exterior; but in the interior such alterations were made as promised, in my opinion, to be more conducive to the convenience of the legislature than the arrangement indicated by the paper in my possession. As far as the work has hitherto proceeded, this general plan has been followed, as well as in the preparations for its further progress; and the estimates which I shall submit to you are founded on calculations made while I was in the study of this design. I have on this occasion revised them, and made such corrections as my ex- perience has since suggested. In order to give you a more clear view of these several objects of expenditure, and of the periods at which their accomplishment may be expected, I have arranged them in a table, exhibiting in the first column the objects themselves in detail; in the second their total estimated expense, and in the following, the sums which will be required in each year for their accomplishment. I have endeavored to make the estimate ample enough, and have taken the more pains with it, because my pro- fessional reputation is involved in it. But it must be taken only in the point of view in which I have placed it. My successors in the direction of the public works, with different views and a different system of conducting them, may easily occasion very sensible variations of the several amounts stated. 152 Documentary History of the Capitol. Estimate of the Sums and Periods required to finish the Public Buildings of the United States. Objects of Expenditure. Total. 1809. 1810. 1811. 1812. 1813. If. Wings of the Capitol. SOUTH WING. a. Completing all the carving of the hall of Representatives, and painting all the walls of the house, including minor re- pairs h. Platform along the south front, pa ving along the east and west front, steps, &c c. North west corner of the wing (see my re- port) containing, the door-keeper’s dwell- ing — water closets — pumps— three com- mittee rooms — passages and sundry store rooms 20, 000 8,000 6,000 4.000 5.000 4,000 5. 000 3. 000 1,000 24, 000 18, 000 6,000 NORTH WING. a. Senate chamber and committee rooms. 20,000 Alterations after the experience of one session, probable 1,500 b. West side of the house, containing the library and the offices of the judi- ciary, solid work and carpentry 30, 000 Finishing, book-cases, and fitting up generally 10,000 c. S. W. corner of this, wing, containing the door-keeper’s dwelling — pump courts — privies and water closets — back stairs and the great conference room 21,600 40, 000 48, 500 20, 000 1, 500 25, 000 15, 000 30, 000 18, 500 213, 000 84, 000 71,500 32, 500 23, 000 2, 000 Having, in the general plan of the Capitol, upon which the above estimates are founded, comprised a detailed design of the centre part of the building, I respect- fully submit to the committee, a descrip- tion and estimate of its expense; as also, of regulating and planting the ground within the Capitol square, in a manner suitable, and convenient to the building. These two objects, are not included in your requisition, but the information I take the liberty to offer you, may tend to throw some light on this subject. Centre of the Capitol. a. Containing general communication of the lower stories, of the wings and principal public staircase — the great Vestibule of the whole building — ten rooms for com- mittee rooms, or rooms for refreshment — an extensive portico on each front — on the east, a flight of steps leading to the principal story b. Planting and regulating the ground includ- ing the necessary walling 225, 000 25, 000 §250, 000 5, 000 5,000 100, 000 5,000 105, 000 100, 000 5, 000 105, 000 25.000 10. 000 35, 000 With, high respect, I am your obedient humble servant, B. Henry Latrobe, Surveyor of the Public Buildings U. States. [Senate proceedings of Jan. 5, 1809: Annals of Congress, 10 — 2, p. 306.] Mr. Gregg from the committee to whom was recommitted the bill making a further appropriation towards completing the two wings of the Capitol at the City of Wash- ington, and for other purposes, reported the bill without amendment. The Old Building. 153 The Senate proceeded to consider the bill as in Committee of the Whole. A motion was made, by Mr. Reed, to strike out the words, “carrying up in solid work, and repairing the west side of the north wing, providing permanent accommodations for the library;” and on the question to agree to the striking out of these words, it was determined in the affirmative — yeas 20, nays 10, as follows: * * * And the President reported the bill to the House amended. On motion of Mr. Thruston the bill was further amended, by inserting, after the word “staircase,” the words, “and providing temporary and adequate accommoda- tions for the library, in the room now.used for that purpose, and in the one in which the Senate now sit.” On motion, by Mr. Reed, to strike out from the clause “for improvements and repairs of the President’s House and square, including a carriage house,” the words, “and square it was determined in the negative — yeas 15, nays 14, as follows: * * * On motion, by Mr. Thruston, the clause for finishing the road on the south side of the President’s square, and gravelling the same, with a bridge across the Tiber, on the north side of Pennsylvania avenue, to accommodate foot passengers, thousand dollars,” was amended, by inserting the words “of stone and brick,” after the word “bridge;” and on motion, by Mr. Reed, to strike out the whole clause as amended, it was determined in the affirmative — yeas 16, nays 14, as follows: * * * On the question, Shall this bill be engrossed and read a third time as amended? it was determined in the affirmative. [Senate proceedings of Feb. 17, 1809: Senate Journal, 10—2, p. 347.] On motion, by Mr. Lloyd, Resolved, That a committee be appointed to confer with the surveyor of the public buildings, relative to the accommodation of the Senate at the next session of Con- gress; and, Ordered, That Messrs. Thruston, Lloyd, and Gregg be the committee. [Report of the Committee appointed to confer with the Surveyor of Public Buildings relative to the accommodation of the Senate, communicated to the Senate Feb. 18, 1809. (10—2, State Papers.)] In Senate of the United States. February 18 th, 1809. Mr. Thruston, from the committee appointed to confer with the surveyor of the public buildings, relative to the accommodation of the Senate at the next meeting of Congress, have had a conference with the said surveyor, and have received from him a written statement of the most eligible plan in his opinion to be adopted, and of the expense incident thereto, which the committee beg leave to submit as part of their report; upon which the committee offer to the Senate, for their consideration, the following resolution: Resolved, That the surveyor of the public buildings do cause to be prepared for the accommodation of the Senate, at the next session of Congress, the room called the Library Room, in the manner stated in the said surveyor’s report, with as little expense as may consist with the reasonable comfort of the members and the conven- ience of spectators. 154 Documentary History of the Capitol. Capitol U States, Feb. 18, 1809. The Chairman of the committee of the Senate United States, appointed February 17, 1809. Sir, I beg leave to report to you on the subject of your inquiry as to the accom- modation which can be provided for the Senate of the United States at their next meeting, on the third Monday in May next; as follows: It is utterly impossible to prepare the Senate chamber on the east side of the north wing, by the time of the next meeting of the Senate. The chamber now occupied by the Senate, although convenient as a temporary accommodation for a winter sesson, yet being on the west side of the house, and exposed to the afternoon’s sun, without the means of complete ventilation: and being besides low, and almost entirely tilled by seats and tables of the Senators, will probably be. a very hot, unpleasant, and unwholesome apartment during the summer months; and although an external awning, or shed, might in some degree prevent the effect of the sun’s rays, the other inconveniences cannot be remedied. The library above stairs, although at present in a very dilapidated condition, and much too large in its present state, for the purpose of the session of the Senate in May next, is the only room in the capitoi adapted to the object of your inquiry. It is lofty and airy, and having two ranges of windows, will not be darkened by the blinds that exclude the western sun. I therefore propose to you — to remove the rough seats, benches, and enclosures erected for the accommodation of the supreme court; to enclose in the centre of the room an area of about 50 feet by 35, by a slight partition of scantling, (of which a large stock is on hand,) board, canvass and paper, to place within it the present seats and tables of the Senators, and thus, at a moderate expense, to provide a cham- ber which will unite every requisite of convenience and comfort, and will enable the Senate to await, without being in the smallest degree incommoded by the delay, the completion of their permanent chamber. The expense of this temporary fitting up may be defrayed in the first instance out of the building fund, and on the meeting of the Senate in May, be presented and charged to the contingent or such other fund as may be assigned by law, or the reso- lution of the Senate. An accurate estimate cannot be given on so short a notice, but 500 dollars is deemed to be sufficient for this object. Being before you on this subject, I beg leave to state that I have furnished to the committee of the House of Representatives before whom the bill from the Senate, making further appropriations for the public buildings, is at this time, an estimate of the furniture required for the new Senatorial apartments, amounting to 9,000 dollars, — including the expense of new, and much more convenient tables — those now in use being wholly unfit by their form to stand on the new platforms, and extremely inconvenient from their great length. I have the honor to be, yours respectfully, B. Henry Latrobe, Surveyor Public Buildings United States. [Senate proceedings of February 22, 1809: Senate Journal, 10 — 2, p. 350.] The Senate resumed the consideration of the report of the committee appointed to confer with the Surveyor of the Public Buildings, relative to the accommodation of the Senate at the next meeting of Congress; and Resolved, That the Surveyor of Public Buildings do cause to be prepared, for the accommodation of the Senate at the next session of Congress, the room called the Library Room, in the manner stated in the said Surveyor’s report, with as little expense as may consist with the reasonable comfort of the members, and the con- venience of spectators. The Old Building. 155 [House proceedings of March 1, 1809: Annals of Congress, 10 — 2, p. 1546.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The House resolved itself into Committee of the Whole, 52 to 24, on the bill from the Senate, making further appropriations for completing the two wings of the Capitol, in the City of Washington, and for other purposes. Mr. W. Alston said that he wished to withhold any appropriation but for the accommodation of the Senate. Such extravagance and waste had characterized the progress in the buildings, that, as long as the present Superintendent remained in office, he would not vote a cent further appropriation. He moved to strike out every item in the bill but that for the accommodation of the Senate. Mr. Lewis objected to the motion. He called for the reading of the report of the Surveyor of Public Buildings on the subject. Messrs. Alston, Sloan, Smilie, and Stanford, advocated the motion, and Messrs. Macon, Nelson, J. G. Jackson, and Lyon, opposed it on the ground that the build- ings, having been commenced, "ought to be finished. The motion for striking out the appropriation for the Representatives’ Chamber, was negatived, 44 to 31. The Committee then refused to strike out any part of the bill. The Committee then rose and reported the bill, which was ordered to be read a third time to-day. The bill being about to be read a third time, Mr. Culpeper moved that the bill be recommitted for the purpose of striking out the items before moved to be striken out. Motion negatived, ayes 9. The bill was then read a third time and passed — yeas 67, nays 21. * «• * [From the “Act making a further appropriation towards completing the two wings of the Capitol at the city of Washington, and forother purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1809. (Stats, at Large, v. 2, 537.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the following sums of money be, and the same are hereby appropriated, to be applied under the direction of the President of the United States, that is to say: For improvements and repairs of the House of Representatives, six thousand dollars. For completing the work in the interior of the north wing, comprising the Senate chamber, court room, &c. &c. twenty thousand dollars. For completing the staircase, and providing temporary and adequate accommoda- tions for the library, in the room now used for that purpose, and in the one in which the Senate now sit, five thousand dollars. [Report of B. Henry Latrobe on Public Buildings communicated to the Senate June 13, 1809. 11—1, Senate'Documents.] Capitol, June 12tli, 1809. The Vice President of the United States, President of the Senate of the United States. Sir, By the direction of the President of the United States, I beg leave to lay before you the following report: The work on the east side of the north wing of the capitol is so far advanced that there can be no reasonable doubt of the occupation of the permanent Senate chamber by the House, at their ensuing session, provided the funds appropriated to complete the same be sufficient. In order to ascertain this point, I have referred to, and Documentary History of the Capitol. 156 re-examined my former estimates, and find that the sum of 5,000 dollars, in addition to the balance of the former appropriation will be required, and will be sufficient to accomplish this object. This deficiency arises from expenditures incidental to the preparations for the present session; from the erection of the connexion between the two wings on the principal floor, and the reinstatement of the ceiling of the court room. I have also to state to you, that no jirovision whatsoever has been made for furnishing the Senate chamber, its committee rooms, lobbies, and offices. Of the furniture nowon hand, no part is applicable to the new apartments, excepting chairs of various descriptions, and a few tables. The desks of the Senators are inconvenient from their size, and being each of a different length and form cannot be adapted to the regular distribution so necessary to the economy of space. Should the Senate acquiesce in the proposition which has been suggested, and permit the room to be furnished with desks of two seats each, the present desks become also on that account quite useless. The carpets now in use, have in general undergone the wear of several years; and although a few of them may be made useful, there will be required at least 800 yards of new carpeting of a more durable kind than that now in the Senate chamber. Excepting the draperies of three windows there are no hangings fit for use. In order to prevent the echo, which is the great cause of difficulty in hearing and speaking in large apartments, it will be necessary to hang at least the circular wall of the chamber with drapery. These hangings will form a considerable item in the furniture required. From the best calculation I have been able to make of the sum requisite for fur- nishing the Senatorial apartments of the House (of which I subjoin a list, ) 10,000 dollars will be sufficient to this object. With the highest respect, I am, your obedient humble servant, B. Hjsxry Latkobe, S. P. B. U. S. LIST OP THE APARTMENTS OF THE SENATE. 1. Lower vestibule and stairs, requiring lamps. 2. Upper vestibule, to be furnished with carpets and chairs. 3. Senate chamber, the Senators chairs, and the secretary’s table, will be used. 4. Lobby. 5-8. Four committee rooms. 9-10. Secretary’s offices. 11-13. Three store rooms above stairs. 14. Closet for hats, &c. 15. Committee rooms, stairs. For the apartments 4 to 15 there is no furniture whatever, excepting some chairs, and a few tables. B. H. Latrobe. [“An Act making an appropriation to finish and furnish the Senate chamber, and for other pur- poses,” approved June 28, 1809. (Stats, at. Large, v. 2, 552.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That to defray the expenses of finishing and furnishing the permanent Senate chamber, its committee rooms, lobbies and other apartments, the sum of fifteen thousand dollars is appropriated, to be paid out of any monies in the treasury not otherwise appropriated. The Old Building. 157 Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That to defray the expense incurred in fitting up the temporary Senate chamber, and repairing and providing articles of furniture, the further sum of sixteen hundred dollars be appropriated, the same to be paid out of any monies in the treasury not otherwise appropriated. [Senate proceedings of November 28, 1809: Senate Journal, 11 — 2, p. 406.] The President communicated a letter from the surveyor of the public buildings, stating the difficulties that have prevented the entire completion of the permanent Senate chamber; which letter was read. [American State Papers, Class X, Misc., v. II, 16.— No. 271. 11th Congress, 2d Session. City of Wash- ington-Public Buildings. Communicated to Congress, December 22, 1809.] December 16, 1809. To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States: I transmit to both Houses of Congress a report from the Surveyor of the Public Buildings, of the progress made on them during the last season, and of other explana- tions relative thereto. James Madison. The report of the Surveyor of the Public Buildings of the United Stales. Washington, December 11, 1809. Sir: During the past season, the appropriations made by law have been severally applied to the purposes for which they were designated, in the manner which I now beg leave to submit to you: 1. — South wing of the Capitol. Agreeably to the intention of the last appropriation, further progress has been made in the sculpture of the capitals and cornices of the hall of Representatives. It will be observed that, on the east side of the house, two capitals are completely finished, and eight others, as well as the cornice, are in very considerable forward- ness. The intermission of the work during the summer session, has prevented still greater progress. Chimney-pieces have been provided for the lobbies and Committtee of Ways and Means, and in a variety of smaller details, the accommodations of the house have been improved. The propriety of further considering the best mode of ventilating and warming the house has induced the postponement of any alteration in the fire-places of the hall itself. A severe hail storm in the month of June broke almost all the glass on the south front of the house, and occasioned a very considerable expense of glass in addition to that contemplated by the appropriation. 2. — North wing of the Capitol. At the beginning of the season, the wood work of the interior having been removed, progress had been made in rebuilding the chamber, and other apartments of the Senate, in solid brickwork. Many circumstances have since occurred to pre- vent the entire completion of this work before the commencement of this present session. The preparations for the session of last summer, the intermission of the principal part of the work during the presence of Congress, and especially the scarcity of workmen, and the difficulty of procuring materials, rendered the greatest 158 Documentary History of the Capitol. and most expensive exertions necessary to complete the accommodations of the Sen- ate, so far as that they may now, in a few days, be permanently occupied; some parts of the chamber itself still remain unfinished ; but means have been taken that no incon- venience shall be thereby occasioned to the business of the house; and during the next recess, what is still deficient may be easily completed. The court room, the office of the Clerk of the Supreme Court, and the office and library of the judges have also been nearly completed, and may be occupied the approaching session of the court. * * * 1. — South wing of the Capitol. To the perfect accommodation of the House of Representatives, nothing is so much wanted as a sufficient number of committee rooms. The standing committees of the House are eight, and it has been moved to increase their number to nine. When the House first occupied the south wing, the number of committees and committee rooms was only seven. The Committee of the District of Columbia has been since then created, and great inconvenience has been experienced for want of a room sufficiently spacious for their increasing business. At present their sittings are held in the small chamber fitted up for the use of the President whenever he comes to the Capitol; should the number of standing committees be increased, it will be impossible to find a room in which they can be accommodated. For special committees there is no accommodation whatever; and it is well known to the members of the House that great inconvenience, interruption, and delay of business arises from this source. On these considerations, as well as on others, which I beg leave to lay before you, I must again point out the advantages' that will arise from the erection of the northwest part of the south wing, and to refer to my reports of the two last sessions. This part of the building will contain several spacious com- mittee rooms, and provide a proper situation for the water closets, which, in their present temporary situation, are a great annoyance to the lobbies and to the Hall of Representatives. There is, however, another reason for the speedy erection of this -work; the foundation of this corner of the house is naturally bad, and the cellars which have been dug there originally, collect a large quantity of -water, which continues to injure them. This angle of the house was designed and built in full expectation that it would be supported by a mass of -work in this place; the appropriation solicited for this purpose has been annually postponed, and the settlement of the wall, which has been the consequence, is now so considerable that I cannot help urging, with much solicitude, that the propriety of adding to the safety as well as to the accom- modations of the building, may be taken anew into consideration. 1 beg leave to refer, for a more detailed representation of these and other motives for making the appropriation, to my report of the 23d March, 1808. The terms on which the Italian sculptors employed on the Capitol are engaged, as well as the necessity of proceeding to finish the capitals of the columns of the interior of the Hall of Representatives, will require a moderate appropriation for that object. The manner in which the House of Representatives is now warmed and ventilated requires further consideration, and considerable improvement. This subject was referred, at the session of June last, to a committee. It was not then acted upon to the extent suggested, but the expense of the improvement having been estimated, I have added it to the Statement submitted. 2. — North wing of the Capitol. The separate appropriation submitted in my last report, (December 1st, 1808,) for the library and judiciary having been postponed, the court room and those offices on the ground story, which support the Senate chamber, and other apartments of the The Old Building. 159 Senate above, were necessarily constructed out of the general funds of the north wing, as otherwise the latter could not possibly have been built. This circumstance is taken into consideration in the estimate submitted below. The whole east side and centre of the north wing being now permanently com- pleted, excepting the parts deficient in the Senate chamber, the iron work of the staircase, and some minor details, I again beg leave to call your attention to the west side of this wing; it is intended to contain the library, and is in such a state of decay throughout, as to render it dangerous to postpone the work proposed. It is now the only part of the Capitol that remains to be solidly rebuilt. But independently of this consideration, the increasing extent of the library of Congress induces me to represent to you the necessity of constructing the rooms intended permanently to contain it. Should the work be commenced in the approach- ing season, the books may be removed, and the library and reading rooms fitted up for use by the session after the next. * * * Estimate. 1. South wing, sculpture, warming and ventilating the house $7,500 South wing, north west addition 25,000 2. North wing, defraying the expense of completing the court room and the offices of the judiciary on the east side, completing the Senate chamber, and for the library 40,000 North wing, for the platform and external access on the north side 5, 000 3. President’s house, offices, wall, and grounds 20,000 4. Highways 6, 000 103, 500 In submitting to you this report and estimate, I hope I may be permitted to add, that the late period of the session at which Congress have usually taken the subject of the public buildings into consideration most materially affects, not only the expense of the work, but the ability of those to whose direction they are entrusted to perform their duty in that manner which is most for the public interest. To explain how this happens, I will enter a little into detail. It is the general practice of all those who hire labor either for agricultural or other purposes, to engage their hands on the 1st of January; on that day all the best laborers are disposed of for the season. Those who are afterwards hired are few, expensive, and generally inferior hands. This circumstance must materially affect that part of our work which depends upon the quarries. No orders can be given till the legislative will is known, which has hitherto always been at the latter end of the session; the consequence is, that our best hands often leave us to search employment elsewhere; the quarriers being unprepared for labor, find it difficult to deliver stone before midsummer or the begin- ning of August, and that at a great expense; the mechanics are to be sought after in other places, often their travelling expenses to be paid, and, in fact, nothing effectual can be done till the latter part of the season, when the necessity of being prepared for the meeting of Congress requires exertions in which expense becomes only a sec- ondary object; and, at last, the best endeavors are sometimes unsuccessful. In respect to common laborers, and to almost all the building artisans who have been brought up in this neighborhood, unless they can be engaged and employed during the winter, they cannot be depended upon until some time in July. In March the fishing season commences for shad and herrings, and lasts till the middle of May. Every man who has not profitable employment in hand, or who is not under engage- ments, then resorts to the shores. As soon as the fishing season is over the harvest commences, and until the end of the harvest, no great exertions, which depend upon these numerous classes of our people, can be made. During the last season, and that of the year 1807, when it was necessary to complete the Hall of Representatives, these causes have acted most materially to the public disadvantage; and I have thought it my duty to state the facts to you more particularly, in hopes that should 160 Documentary History of the Capitol. they be laid by you before the National Legislature, they may have the weight which they merit. All of which is most respectfully submitted. B. Henry Latrobe, Surveyor of the Public Buildings of the United States. To the President of the United States. [Senate proceedings of December 29, 1809: Senate Journal, 11 — 2, p. 420.] Mr. Bradley from the committee to whom was referred the letter from the Sur- veyor of the Public Buildings, of the 28th of November last, reported the following resolution : Resolved, That, from and after the first day of January next, the Senate will hold their session in the new Senate chamber lately provided in the north wing of the Capitol. [Report of the Committee on the President’s Message communicating a report of the Surveyor of the Public Buildings, accompanying a bill making further appropriations for completing the Capitol and for other purposes, communicated to the House January 11, 1810. (11 — 2, House Committee Reports.)] REPORT. The committee to whom was referred the message of the President of the United States communicating a report of the surveyor of the public buildings, Report: That they have carefully examined, and maturely considered, the propriety of con- tinuing the improvements, as recommended in the report of the surveyor of the public buildings, and are of opinion that whatever may be the propriety of progressing with the public buildings or of altering those already erected, it is not deemed prudent at this time, when a resort to loans may be necessary for the support of the Government, that any improvements whatever should be made, which can be, with any sort of propriety, dispensed with. They therefore take the liberty of recommending that the expenditures for the public buildings at this time be restricted to the objects speci- fied in the bill which the committee ask leave to report. [MSS.: B. II. Latrobe. Correspondence relating to the Capitol at Washington, v. 2,613: Library of Congress.] The President of the U. S. Capitol Jany 18th 1810 Sri; In the original design of the Senate Chamber, submitted to and approved by the late President, it was intended to place a range of seats along the semicircular wall of the room for the accommodation of the Members of the House of Representatives. This design was in progress of execution during the Summer Session and was advanced and remarked upon by several members of the Senate. The result of the conversations which arose upon the subject was that a committee was appointed to direct the arrangement of the seats of the Senate Chamber, which committee ordered the seats proposed for the Members of the House of Representatives to be omitted, and the seats of the Senators to be placed first in order from the wall. * * * But as there is some delicacy felt as to the manner of revoking the order of the committee of the Senate, and the expenditures of the Public buildings are by law placed under the direction of the President of the United States, I am desired by Vice-President of the United States to state to you that it is his wish that the original The Old Building. 161 design should be restored and to request your direction on the subject- as my sanction for so doing. * * * I have therefore desired the Clerk of the Works, Mr. Henry I. Latrobe to wait upon you with the original documents and to receive your directions. The alteration will be very easily effected. I am, with high respect Yours faithfully, B. Henry Latrobe. [Senate proceedings of February 6, 1810: Senate Journal, 11 — 2, p. 435.] The Senate resumed, as in committee of the whole, the bill to engage, for a short period, a corps of volunteers in the service of the United States; and On motion, by Mr. Bayard, It was agreed to postpone the bill for the purpose of considering the report of the committee to whom was referred the letter from the surveyor of the public build- ings, of the 28th of November l^st; and On motion, by Mr. Bayard, The report having been amended, was agreed to as follows: Resolved, That, from and after Saturday, the 10th instant, the Senate will hold their session in the new Senate chamber, lately provided in the north wing of the capitol. [House proceedings of May 1, 1810: Annals of Congress, 11 — 2, p. 2051.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The House resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole, on the bill making further appropriations for completing the Capitol, &c. Considerable debate took place on the proposed appropriations: Messrs. Ran- dolph and W. Alston opposing them; and Messrs. Lewis, Macon, Lyon, Key, and Love, supporting them. The House refused the appropriation for completing the wall around the Presi- dent’s square, appropriating, however, five thousand dollars for the repair of the President’s house. Mr. W. Alston offered the following section as an amendment to the bill, which was agreed to: “And be it farther enacted, That it shall be the duty of the Superintendent of the City, prior to any further advances of money being made, to call for all claims due on account of materials furnished, or work done, on the public buildings, in order that the same may be liquidated and paid." The Committee rose, and reported the bill as amended. The report of the Committee of the Whole was ordered to lie on the table. [From the "Act making further appropriations for completing the Capitol, and for other purposes,” approved May 1, 1810. (Stats, at Large, v. 2,607.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That in addition to the appropriations heretofore made, the following sums of money be, and the same are hereby appropriated, to be applied under the direction of the President of the United States, to the purposes hereinafter mentioned, that is to say: For sculpture, and warming and ventilating the chamber of the House of Repre- sentatives, seven thousand five hundred dollars. For defraying the expense of completing the court-room, and the offices of the judiciary, on the east side, completing the ^Senate chamber and stopping the leaks in the roof of the north wing of the Capitol, twenty thousand dollars. H. Rep. 046 11 162 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House proceedings of Dec. 28, 1810: House Journal, 11—3, p. 404.] On motion of Mr. Alston, Resolved , That the President of the United States be requested to cause to be laid before this House an account of the money appropriated on the first of May, one thousand eight hundred and ten, for completing the Capitol, and for other purposes, distinguishing the sums expended for each item of appropriation, and the sums expended in payment of debts previously incurred. Mr. Alston and Mr. Richards were appointed a committee to present the foregoing resolution to the President of the United States. [Message from the President of the United States, transmitting reports of the Superintendent of the City and of the Surveyor of the Public Buildings, on the expenditure of the money appropriated May 1, 1810, for completing the Capitol, communicated to the House Jan. 15, 1811. (11 — 3, Executive Papers.)] MESSAGE. To the house of representatives of the United States. I transmit to the house of representatives, reports of the superintendent of the city, and of the surveyor of the public buildings, on the subject of their resolution of the 28th of December last. James Madison. January 14th, 1811. -x- * * Washington, January 3, 1811. Sir: In obedience to your directions that I should furnish to you all the informa- tion on the subject of the expenditure of the appropriation of May 1st, 1810, in my possession, I have to report to you as follows: In my report dated December 11, 1809, I stated, that although the estimate sub- mitted by me, on December 1st, 1808, of the sum requisite for the court room and library, has not been considered in the appropriation, it had been absolutely necessary to carry up the court room and offices on the east side of the north wing of the capi- tol, in order to support the senate chamber and committee rooms, which are imme- diately over them. This expenditure is stated to have been taken into consideration in the estimate a of forty thousand dollars, necessary for defraying the expense of com- pleting the court room and the offices of the judiciary, on the east side of the north wing; completing the senate chamber, and for the library. The court room and the offices of the judiciary on the east side, were then completed: the senate chamber required to its completion, a sum not exceeding two thousand five hundred dollars, and the library was not begun. I hoped to have carried up the solid work under cover of the pres- ent roof, during the season of 1810. Twenty thousand dollars, however, only were granted; and the whole appropriation for the public buildings was made liable to the expenses already incurred. The principal part of these expenses were created by the necessity of constructing the court room and offices, under the senate chamber. The expense of fitting up and furnishing the court room having never been esti- mated by me, or contemplated by the words of any law making appropriation for the public buildings, I took no steps whatever to fit up and furnish the room, until the propriety of so doing was urged by the judges of the courts, who had been obliged to hold their sittings at a tavern. I then understood that the contingent fund of the judiciary was liable to this expense, the accounts being properly certified by the judges. a In my report dated December 11, 1809. The Old Building. 163 Under these impressions, the court room was fitted up and furnished; and the accounts being made up, were submitted to the chief justice of the United States, whose letter and certificate are enclosed. On submission, however, to the officers of the treasury, it was decided that these accounts be paid out of the appropriation of May 1st, 1810; and their amount, as appears by the books of the superintendent of the city, has accordingly been paid out of that fund. This decision, wholly unexpected by me, reduced the sum applicable to the public works so much, that I immediately discharged all the workmen and laborers, except- ing those that were necessary to render the hall of representatives and the senate chamber, which had been dismantled, capable of being occupied by the legislature during their present session; and excepting the artists, who being engaged under special contracts, could not be discharged by me, but who were fully apprized of the state of the funds of the public buildings. These persons, therefore, continue to be employed. To these circumstances it is owing that the expenditures on the public buildings have been confined to the objects named in my detailed report of the 28th of December, 1810. I am, very respectfully, &c. B. Henry Latro3e, Surveyor of the public buildings. The President of the United States. * * * [Message from the President of the United States, transmitting a report of the Surveyor of the Public Buildings, communicated to Congress Jan. 15, 1811. (11—3, Executive Papers.)] MESSAGE. To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States. I transmit to congress a report from the surveyor of the public buildings, relative to the progress and present state of them. James Madison. January 14. 1811. The Report of the Surveyor of the Public Buildings of the United States. Washington, December 38, 1810. Sir, The appropriation of the first of May, 1810, has been, agreeably to the pro- visions of the law, applied to the objects enumerated in this report. The outstanding accounts being collected, settled, and ascertained, it appeared that enough would remain to make progress towards the further completion of the works. But the expense of fitting up and furnishing the court room and offices of the judiciary of the United States, an expense not estimated as belonging to the funds of the public buildings, having by a decision of the treasury department, been considered as contemplated by the law to be paid out of the appropriation of the 1st May, 1810, it became neces- sary to discharge almost all our workmen in June, and there remained nothing to pay the wages and salaries of those persons who are engaged under specific contracts. Some progress, however, had been made, and the following work has been per- formed. 1. North icing of the capitol. The senate chamber has been finished in all its substantial parts. But the legis- lature not having risen before the month of May, it was late in the season before the more solid work could be finished. The plaistering of the east wall has there- fore been put off, to avoid the damp it would have occasioned during the present session. On this account, the hangings of that side of the room have not been put up. 164 Documentary History of the Capitol. The improvements pointed out by the experience of the last session, have been made in the chamber itself; and the secretary’s office has been furnished with shelves and book cases. The south wing having employed most of the sculptors engaged by the public, there remains still much to be done in the sculpture of the senate chamber. 2. South wing of the capitol. The principal expenditure in the south wing of the capitol, has been on the interior of the hall. of representatives. All the capitals on the west side of the house have been under the hands of the sculptors, and are far advanced. There remain only two over the entrance that are not yet touched, out of twenty-four capitals. With the aid of four American artists, instructed by Mr. Andrei, they may now all be finished in twelve months. A great variety of minor improvements and repairs, annually incident to the occu- pation of the house by the legislature, have been made. Towards ventilating and warming the house in a more perfect manner, nothing has been done beyond the purchase of a steam apparatus." On the mode of warm- ing the house by means of steam, which is now so generally used in Europe in large halls, I made a report three years ago, to the speaker of the house of representatives. I remain still of the same opinion, as to its being the best mode that can be adopted. During a former season, this subject was referred to a select committee, who made a report to the house. But nothing was done; and it seemed to be understood, that further inquiry should be made. I respectfully hope, that as the house have once entered into the consideration of this "Subject, a decision may be obtained, as to the manner of effecting both the ventilation and the warming of the hall, in the course of the present session. * * *• It is now my duty again to solicit your attention to the state of the west side of the north wing of the capitol. The decay of the timbers of the roof and floor is such, as to render partial repair impossible, and as to prevent any effectual security against leakage. All the east side of the wing is safe against fire or decay, and it will in future require no expenditure but for painting, completing the unfinished plaistering and a few small parts of the hand-rails, &c. most of which are prepared, and those small annual repairs of glass and accidents, which are unavoidable in every inhabited building. I also beg leave to refer to my former reports, on the propriety of adding to the south wing the building required, both for the support of that corner, and for the better accommodation of the house of representatives by more numerous committee rooms, and domestic conveniences. The platforms necessary to approach each entrance of the capitol on the north and south, would also be advantageously erected, and I have submitted an estimate for them below. Should the legislature think proper to make further appropriations for the objects specified in this report, I beg leave to submit the following estimate for consideration: ESTIMATE. For sculpture, being for the wages of two Italian sculptors engaged under a specific contract, and for wages of the assistants and of two laborers to attend them, scaffolding, utensils, tools and all expenses incident to this branch $6, 000 For ventilating and warming the south wing, painting on the roof, repairing of glass, moving and replacing furniture and carpets, and all incidental work 3, 500 a This apparatus cost ninety-seven dollars. The Old Building. 165 For replacing The expenditure of fitting and furnishing the court room and offices, thereby covering all outstanding claims excepting current wages by agreement §2, 432 For salaries and their arrears, and all contingent expenses 4, 000 * * * For the plaistering and residue of finishing in the senate chamber, minor repairs and painting, additional shelves and book-cases, and fitting up the room over the secretary’s office as a deposit of books and papers not in use. 2, 500 a For the permanent construction of the west side of the north wing and the north west angle of the south wing, as high as the same can be carried in the season of 1811 20, 000 For the regulating of the ground in front and on the sides of the capitol and repairs of the roads 2, 500 For the platforms to the north and south entrances 8, 000 * * * All of which is respectfully submitted. B. Henry Latrobe. To the President of the U. S. [House proceedings of January 14, 1811: Annals of Congress, 11 — 3, p. 517.] COMPLETING THE CAPITOL. Mr. Macon submitted the following resolution: Resolved, That the President of the United States be requested to cause to be laid before this House an estimate of the sum necessary to finish the Capitol, designating what may be necessary to finish each wing, and the main building, and what time may be required to finish the whole building. Mr. Rhea moved to strike out so much of the resolution as would confine it to an inquiry into the necessary repairs of the north and south wings, and the expenses of them. Mr. Lewis expressed his surprise that any objection should be made to receiving information, whatever disposition there might be to act on it. The resolution went to an object which, in the opinion of Mr. L., ought, long ago, to have attracted the attention of Congress, and he was happy to see it now taken up. Mr. Macon said, he wished to have a whole view of the subject, and not to go on for ever by little and little to vote a great amount of money without having any esti- mate. He said they had better look at the subject altogether. He had no idea, how- ever, that Congress would now appropriate a large sum of money to this object; every body knew the Treasury was not in a situation to afford it; but he was opposed to the motion of Mr. Rhea, because he wished to have a view of the whole subject. Mr. Stanford said he had no objection to calling for further estimates; but the House had already had several estimates of the expense of finishing each of the wings, which were among the printed documents of the House. Mr. Pickman hoped the amendment would not prevail, although he might feel as little interest in the subject as any one, because he did not expect, after the end of the present session, ever to see Washington again; but it would be a great gratifica- tion to him to know that this building was finished, and that it should not stand as a Note. — In the present state of the building, it is not possible to give a very correct estimate of the expense of finishing either the west side of the north wing, or of building the north west angle of the south wing. If, however, twenty thousand dollars be appropriated to these objects, the work may be carried up during the next season so high, that a perfectly accurate estimate, or even a con- tract might be made for its ultimate expense. As nearly as I can now estimate this expense, it would not exceed, for the north west angle, thirty-four thousand dollars; nor for the west side of the north wing, twenty thousand dollars. Documentary IDstory of the Capitol. 166 a monument of extravagance — of extravagance produced by the mode in which money had been appropriated and expended for it. If the Government should go on, as it had done for eight or ten years, making alterations or repairs, the buildings would be in no better state than they are now, although they would have cost a great deal more money than if an appropriation were at once made to finish the whole. He therefore hoped the resolution would pass without amendment. Mr. Rhea said, if he believed the gentleman from North Carolina was seriously disposed to do that which his motion proposed to inquire into, he might agree to it. If the buildings were finished, repairs would always be necessary, until materials should be discovered, as durable in their nature as time itself. The idea that the making a large appropriation at once would preclude the necessity of other appro- priations was as reasonable as that, because a man made a hearty dinner one day, he. should eat none for a week afterwards. Mr. Rhea’s motion for amendment was negatived. On the suggestion of Mr. Tallmadge, the resolution was so amended, with the consent of Mr. Macon, as to call for an account of the debts due to individuals at this time for work done on the Capitol; and also for an account of the whole moneys expended on the public buildings. As amended, the resolution was agreed to, and a committee appointed to present it to the President of the United States. [Message from the President of the United States, transmitting, in compliance with House resolution of January 14, 1811, reports from the Superintendent of the City and of the Surveyor of Public Build mgs, exhibiting the sum already expended on the Capitol, the sum necessary to finish each wing, and the sum due for labor and materials, communicated to the House Feb. 20, 1811. (11-3, State Papers.)] MESSAGE. To the House of Representatives of the United States. I transmit to the house of representatives, reports from the superintendent of the city, and the surveyor of the public buildings, complying with their resolution of the 14th of January. James Madison. February 25, 1811. Superintendents’ s Office, Washington, January 19, 1811. Sir, I have the honor to transmit herewith an account, required by a resolution of the house of representatives of the 14th instant, of the monies expended on the capitol in the city of Washington, from its commencement to that day. I have the honor to be, With the greatest respect, Sir, Your obedient servant, Thomas Munroe. President United States. Account of monies expended on the Capitol in the city of Washington, including the disbursements on the two wings, the centre building, temporary representatives chambers erected in 1801, and all other expenditures on the Capitol square, from the commencement to the 14th of January. 1811, viz. Charged to an account in the books of the late commissioners, headed The Old Building. 167 CAPITOL. Embracing all expenditures made under their direction on the founda- tion walls of the main building and two wings; erecting the north wing, and temporary representatives chamber, and all other disburse- ments on the Capitol square prior to 3d March, 1803 $337, 735. 38 SOUTH WING OF THE CAPITOL. Disbursed since the 3d March, 1809, being monies appropriated by Congress ' $298,714.91 NORTH WING OF THE CAPITOL. Disbursed since the 3d March, 1809, being monies Congress. Total expenditures Superintendent’s Office, Washington, January 19, 1811. appropriated 1 >y $125, 034. 75 $761, 485. 04 Thomas Munroe. Washington, February 11, 1811. Sir, The inclosed list of claims outstanding against the public buildings is submitted to you, in obedience to your directions. The two first items arise from engagements which have subsisted for some years, and have not been closed. The latter exhibits the amount of the demands against the public for labor and materials delivered; the certified vouchers of which are deposited with the superintendent of the city of Washington. I am, with the highest respect, your’s, B. H. Latrobe, Surveyor public buildings U. S. The President of the United States. List of claims outstanding against the public buildings of the United States on the 1st of February, 1811. I. Sculptors and their assistants * * * $1, 433. 18 This sum is included in the sum of $6,000 in the estimate of the sur- veyor of the public buildings, of December 28, 1810. II. Salaries * * * 1, 750 III. Labor and material * * * 3, 319. 74J $6, 502. 924 February 11, 1811. B. Henry Latrobe, Surveyor public buildings United States. Washington, February 23, 1811. Sir, In obedience to your directions that I should furnish to you the information required by the resolution of the house of representatives of the 14th of January, which may be within the duties committed to me, I beg leave to submit to you the following statement. Of the centre of the Capitol, no estimate can be presented without a more definite plan than I possess of that part of the building. 1 have therefore transmitted only Documentary History of the Capitol. 168 an estimate of the wings to which, and to the settlement of the outstanding claims against the public buildings, I have devoted my best attention. 1. Estimate of the expense of completing the North wing of the Capitol of the United States. 1. Of the west part of the wing containing on the principal floor, the library and two reading rooms, and on the ground floor, 1 grand jury room, two jury rooms, 1 clerk’s office, 1 marshal’s office, independently of any furniture $25,000 2. For that part of the house the front of which, westward, is carried up in brick work in a temporary manner, and which is to contain the conference room of both houses on the principal floor, and below, the dwelling of the doorkeeper, a court, privies, stairs to the upper rooms and to the roof, pumps, &c. &c. Freestone work 17,500 Digging foundation, drains, pumps, scaffolding 10, 000 All other work 27, 500 55,000 3. To complete a great variety of small unfinished details, painting, &c. in the part occupied at present by the senate and judiciary 5, 000 Total north wing 85, 000 II. Estimate of the expense of completing the South wing of the Capitol. 1. The only part of the south wing which is incomplete, is the north-west angle, containing five committee rooms, the stairs, the doorkeepers dwell- ing, a court, water closets, pumps, &c. Work in freestone 17, 500 Foundations, &c 10, 000 All other work 28, 500 56,000 2. To complete a variety of small details unfinished in the part now occu- pied, as painting, &c. &c - 5,000 61, 000 These estimates have been made in detail and with great care. The work may be completed in two years from the first of August next, the intermediate time being required for preparatory arrangements. To these estimates should be added that of the platforms of the north and south fronts, which if extended along the whole fronts and returned at the west ends, will cost, according to a detailed estimate, $17,000. Of the sums set down in these statements, the reported estimate of the 28th of December, 1810, contains the items (being the 7th and 9th) of $20,000 for the wings, and $8,000 for the platforms, which are therein only calculated to pass the gallery and court room doors, I am fully persuaded, that in submitting these estimates, I have not made any error or omission of importance. With the highest respect, I am yours, &c. B. H. Latrobe, Surveyor of the P. B. U. S. The President of the United States. [House proceedings of Mar. 24, 1S12: House Journal, 12 — 1, p. 263.] On motion of Mr. Bacon, Resolved, That the President of the United States be requested to cause to be laid before this House an account, in detail, of all sums now due, and to whom, for labor, CAPITOL, 1814. The Old B 1 t lid in g. 169 materials, and other services, of every nature and kind whatsoever, which have here- tofore been furnished and performed towards erecting or repairing the Capitol, and the President’s House, or for procuring furniture for the same: also, whether any, ami what, compensations are now allowed for the service of superintending these objects, and the nature of those services. Mr. Bacon and Mr. Piper were appointed a committee to present said resolution to the President of the United States. [House proceedings of Apr. 7, 1812: House Journal, 12 — 1, p. 278.] The message received yesterday from the President of the United States was read, and is as follows: To the House of Representatives of the United States: I transmit to the House of Representatives a report of the Superintendent of the city, in compliance with their resolution of the twenty-fourth of March, to which I add a letter from B. Id. Latrobe, connected with that subject. James Madison. April 6, 1812. [House proceedings of Apr. 7, 1812: Annals of Congress, 12 — 1, p. 1263.] The letter of the Superintendent transmits to the President a statement in detail made by Mr. Latrobe, by whom the expenditure had been authorized, of the amount due for work on the Public Buildings, the total or recapitulation of which is as follows: Capitol 5, 967 79 Sculptors 3,823 75 President’s House 1,683 52 General Expenses 2, 950 00 814,425 06 The Message and documents were referred to the Committee of Ways and Means. [“An Act making an appropriation for the purpose of discharging all the outstanding claims for the construction and repair of the Capitol and the President’s House; for the compensation of the late Surveyor of the Public Buildings, and for furniture for the different apartments of the Capitol, and for other purposes," approved July 5, 1812. (Stats, at Large, v. 2, 775.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That for the purpose of satisfying all outstanding claims for services performed and materials furnished for the construction and repair of the capitol and President’s house, including therein the sum of two thousand five hun- dred dollars for the compensation of the late surveyor of public buildings, to the first of July, one thousand eight hundred and eleven, when his duties in that capacity ceased; for furniture for the different apartments of the capitol, and for contingent expenses relating thereto, the sum of fourteen thousand five hundred and seventy- three dollars be, and the same is hereby appropriated to be applied to the discharge of the claims before mentioned, and to no other purpose whatsoever. Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, that a sum not exceeding one thousand dollars be, and the same is hereby appropriated for the purpose of enabling the President of the United States to return to their native country, the two Italian sculptors lately employed on the public buildings, and to close the original contract made with them on behalf of the United States. 170 Documentary History of the Capitol. Sec. 3. And be it further enacted, That the superintendent of the city of Wash- ington be authorized to contract for the completion of the sculpture in the south wing of the capitol, under the direction of the President of the United States, and that the sum of four thousand dollars lie appropriated towards defraying the expense of the same. Sec:. 4. And be it further enacted, That a sum not exceeding four thousand dollars be, and the same is hereby appropriated for the completing the sculpture and the work on the galleries of the Senate chamber, the railing of the stairs and minor works, deficient in theeast part of the north wing of the capitol, and for temporary repairs to the roof. Sec. 5. And be it further enacted, That the aforesaid sums shall be paid out of any monies in the treasury not otherwise appropriated. [House proceedings of Feb. 27, 1813: House Journal, 12 — 2, p. 716.] Mr. Dawson, from the committee appointed to inquire what alterations, if any, are necessary in their chamber, for the future accommodation of the House of Repre- sentatives, made a report, which was read. Mr. Dawson, from the same committee, reported a bill making an appropriation for alterations to lie made in the chamber of the House of Representatives; which was read the first time, and, on motion, the said bill was read the second time, and committed to a committee of the Whole House on Monday. Ordered that the report be recommitted to a select committee. [“An Act making an appropriation for alterations and repairs in the Capitol,” approved Mar. 3, 1813. (Stats, at Large, v. 2, 822.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That a sum not exceeding five thousand dollars shall be, and the same is hereby appropriated, to be applied under the direction of the President of the United States, in such repairs or alterations in the chamber of the House of Representatives as maybe necessary for their accommodation in their future sessions, having in view as well the increased number of the members, as the better lighting, ventilating, and warming the chamber; which sum shall be paid out of any money in the treasury not otherwise appropriated. Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That five hundred dollars be appropriated to repair the roof of the capitol, to be paid out of any money in the treasury not other- wise appropriated. [“An Act making an appropriation for finishing the Senate Chamber and repairing the roof of the north wing of the Capitol,” approved July 26, 1813. (Stats, at Large, v. 3, 48.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That a sum not exceeding nine thousand five hundred dollars be, and the same is hereby appropriated, to be applied under the direction of the President of the United States, to finishing the Senate Chamber, and repairing the roof of the north wing of the Capitol; which sum shall be paid out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated. The Old Building. 171 [From the state paper, “An Exposition of the -Causes and Character of the War,” subsequently attributed to Alexander J. Dallas, Secretary of the Treasury, bearing date Feb. 10, 1815, and printed in the Annals of Congress, Appendix 13-3, p. 1416 et seq.] DESTRUCTION OF THE CAPITOL AND OTHER PUBLIC BUILDINGS, WAR OF 1812. Although the necessary precautions had been ordered to assemble the militia for the defence of the city, a variety of causes combined to render the defence unsuccess- ful; and the enemy took possession of Washington on the evening of the 24th of August, 1814. The commanders of the British force held, at that time, Admiral Cochrane’s desolating order, although it was then unknown to the Government and the people of the United States; but, conscious of the danger of so distant a separa- tion from the British fleet, and desirous, by every plausible artifice, to deter the citi- zens from flying to arms against the invaders, they disavowed all design of injuring private persons and property, and gave assurances of protection wherever there was submission. General Ross and Admiral Cockburn then proceeded in person to direct and superintend the business of conflagration in a place which had yielded to their arms, which was unfortified, and by which no hostility was threatened. They set fire to the Capitol, within whose walls were contained the halls of the Congress of the United States, the hall of their highest tribunal for the administration of justice, the archives of the Legislature, and the National Library. They set fire to the edifice which the United States had erected for the residence of their Chief Magistrate; and they set fire to the costly and extensive buildings erected for the accommodation of the principal officers of the Government in the transaction of the public business. These magnificent monuments of the progress of the arts, which America had bor- rowed from her parent Europe, with all the testimonials of taste and literature which they contained, were, on the memorable night of the 24th of August, consigned to the flames, while British officers of high rank and command united with their troops in riotous carousals by the light of the burning pile. * * * [Admiral Cochrane’s order, above referred to, dated Aug. 18, 1814, is printed in Annals of Congress, Appendix 13-3, p. 1281.] [From “Messages and Papers of the Presidents,” v. 1, 545.] By the President of the United States of America. A PROCLAMATION. Whereas the enemy by a sudden incursion have succeeded in invading the capital of the nation, defended at the moment by troops less numerous than their own and almost entirely of the militia, during their possession of which, though for a single day only, they wantonly destroyed the public edifices, having no relation in their structure to operations of war nor used at the time for military annoyance, some of these edifices being also costly monuments of taste and of the arts, and others depositories of the public archives, not only precious to the nation as the memorials of its origin and its early transactions, but interesting to all nations as contributions to the general stock of historical instruction and political science; and * * * Whereas these proceedings and declared purposes, which exhibit a deliberate dis- regard of the principles of humanity and the rules of civilized warfare, and which must give to the existing war a character of extended devastation and barbarism at the very moment of negotiations for peace, invited by the enemy himself, leave no prospect of safety to anything within the reach of his predatory and incendiary operations but in manful and universal determination to chastise and expel the invader: 172 Documentary History of the Capitol. Now, therefore, I, James Madison, President of the United States, do issue this my proclamation, exhorting all the good people thereof to unite their hearts and hands in giving effect to the ample means possessed for that purpose. * * * In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed to these presents. Done at the city of Washington, the 1st day of September, A. D. 1814, and of the Independence of the United States the thirty-ninth. [seal.] James Madison. By the President: James Monroe, Secretary of State. [Special Message of President James Madison. ("Messages and Papers of the Presidents,” v. 1, 546.)] Washington, September 17, 1814. The President of the Senate of the Un ited States. Sir: The destruction of the Capitol by the enemy having made it necessary that other accommodations should be provided for the meeting of Congress, chambers for the Senate and for the House of Representatives, with other requisite apartments, have been fitted up, under the direction of the superintendent of the city, in the public buildings heretofore allotted for the post and other public offices. With this information, be pleased, sir, to accept assurances of my great respect and consideration James Madison. [From the sixth annual Message of President James Madison. (‘‘Messages and Papers of the Presi- dents,” v. 1. 547.)] Washington, September 20, 1814- Fellow-citizens of the Senate and of the House of Representatives: * * * In the events of the present campaign the enemy, with all his augmented means and wanton use of them, has little ground for exultation, unless he can feel it in the success of his recent enterprises against this metropolis and the neighboring town of Alexandria, from both of which his retreats were as precipitate as his attempts were bold and fortunate. In his other incursions on our Atlantic frontier his progress, often checked and chastised by the martial spirit of the neighboring citizens, has had more effect in distressing individuals and in dishonoring his arms than in promoting any object of legitimate warfare; and in the two instances men- tioned, very deeply to be regretted on our part, he will find in his transient success, which interrupted for a moment only the ordinary public business at the seat of •Government, no compensation for the loss of character with the world by his viola- tions of private property and by his destruction of public edifices protected as monu- ments of the arts by the laws of civilized warfare. * * * Our enemy is powerful in men and in money, on the land and on the water. * * * He has avowed his purpose of trampling on the usages of civilized warfare, and given earnests of it in the plunder and wanton destruction of private property. * * * His barbarous policy has not even spared those monuments of the arts and models of taste with which the country had enriched and embellished its infant metropolis. From such an adversary hostility in its greatest force and in its worst forms may be looked for. The American people will face it with the undaunted spirit which in their revolutionary struggle defeated his unrighteous projects. His threats and his barbarities, instead of dismay, will kindle in every bosom an indignation not to be extinguished but in the disaster and expulsion of such cruel invadei's. * * * H. Rep. 646 — 58-2. ORIGINAL CAPITOL AFTER THE FIRE OF 1814. The Old Building. 173 / [American State Papers, Class X, Misc., v. II, 246.] ON THE BURNING OF THE CAPITOL. Monticello, September 21 , 1814. Dear Sir: Hearn from the newspapers that the vandalism of our enemy has tri- umphed at Washington over science as well as the arts, by the destruction of the public library, with the noble edifice in which it was deposited. Of this transaction, as that of Copenhagen, the world will entertain but one sentiment. They will see a nation suddenly withdrawn from a great war, full-armed and full-handed, taking advantage of another whom they had recently forced into it, unarmed, and unpre- pared, to indulge themselves in acts of barbarism which do not belong to a civilized age. When Van Ghent destroyed their shipping at Chatham, and De Ruyter rode triumphantly up the Thames, he might, in like manner, by the acknowledgment of their own historians, have forced all their ships up to London bridge, and there have burnt them, the tower, and city, had these examples been then set. London, when thus menaced, was near a thousand years old; Washington is but in its teens. * 1 * * Samuel II. Smith, Esq. Th: Jefferson. CAPTURE OF THE CITY OF WASHINGTON. [Annals of Congress, Appendix 13—3, pp. 1518, 1728 — Communicated to the House, November 29, 1814.] In the House of Representatives, September 23, 1814- Resolved, That a committee be appointed to inquire into the causes of the success of the enemy in his recent enterprises against this metropolis, and the neighboring town of Alexandria ; and into the manner in which the public buildings and prop- erty were destroyed, and the amount thereof, and that they have power to send for persons and papers. Mr. Johnson of Kentucky , Mr. Lowndes, Mr. Stockton, Mr. Miller, Mr. Golds- borough, Mr. Barbour, and Mr. Pickens, were appointed the said committee. Mr. R. M. Johnson made the following report: The committee charged with an inquiry so intimately concerning the character of Administration, the sensibility of the nation, and the honor of its arms, as the causes of success of the enemy in his recent enterprises against this metropolis, &c., have endeavored to combine despatch with effect, in the manner in which they have collected the facts and views presented in the following statement : * -x- * No. 14. Report from the Superintendent of the Public Buildings. Office of Superintendent, Washington, Oct. 29, 1814- Sir: In answer to the inquiries you made of me yesterday, I have the honor to state that the whole cost of the under-mentioned public buildings, from the com- mencement to the burning by the enemy, appears as follows: North wing of the Capitol, including the foundation walls of both wings, and of the centre or main building, and of alterations and repairs . $457, 388 36 South wing of the Capitol 329, 774 92 President’s House 334,334 00j Public Offices 93, 613 82 $1,215,111 21 2 174 Documentary History of the Capitol. At the instance of a committee of the Senate, the remains of those buildings have been examined by architects and master builders, all of whom report it as their opinions, that the walls of the President’s House, and both wings of the Capitol, with some inconsiderable repairs, will be safe and sufficient to rebuild on. The walls of the two offices, particularly of the upper stories, are deemed insufficient to bear new roofs, and will require taking down and renewing, as far as shall be found necessary. The amounts of the estimates for repairing and rebuilding the five edifices, making the offices tire proof, with some other improvements suggested, are from three hun- dred and fifty thousand dollars to upwards of six hundred thousand dollars. The largest estimate, however, embraces an expense of considerable amount, for complet- ing the west part of the north wing for a library, which none of the lower estimates includes. The average amount estimated, of putting all the buildings in the state the enemy found them, appears, by dividing the aggregate amount of the estimates by the number of them, to be about four hundred and sixty thousand dollars, allowing for the materials of the burnt buildings, which may be used in rebuilding. I have the honor to be, &c. Thomas M unroe. Hon. R. M. Johnson. [House proceedings of Oct. 20, 1814: Annals of Congress, 13 — 3, p. 413.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. Mr. Lewis, of Virginia, said, the House having decided that Congress should not remove from this place, he thought it proper some steps should be immediately taken towards making a provision for the better accommodation of the different Depart- ments of the Government. With this opinion he moved the following resolution: Resolved , That the Committee of the District of Columbia be instructed to inquire into the expedi- ency of rebuilding or repairing the President’s House, the Capitol, and Public Offices, and into the expenses necessary for that purpose; and whether the public interest or convenience would be pro- moted by any change or alteration of the sites of said buildings. Mr. Gholson, of Virginia, said, he saw no reason for stirring the question of chang- ing the sites of these buildings at present, and hoped the gentleman would expunge that part of his motion. Mr. Lewis said he was of the same opinion as his colleague in respect to the expedi- ency of changing the sites of the public buildings; but, as some gentlemen in the House were, he knew, of a different opinion, he had thought it best to place the question in its broadest shape before the Committee. Mr. Grosvenor, of New York, moved to refer the subject to a select committee, instead of the standing committee as proposed. It was a subject interesting to the whole United States, and the importance of which was not limited to the District only. He thought, therefore, it should be referred to a general committee. He took occasion to Say, that the decision having been made on the question of removal, it ought to be final; and during this Congress, at least, he was not disposed to move it again. It was the duty of this Congress, he conceived, to proceed in preparing for the better accommodation of the Government here. After some further conversation, Mr. G.’s amendment was agreed to — ayes 87; and Mr. Lewis, Mr. Kent, of Maryland, Mr. Hanson, Mr. Bowen, Mr. Grosvenor,, Mr. Sharp, and Mr. Condict, were appointed the said committee. [American State Papers, Class X, Misc., V. II, 252.— No. 375. 13th Congress, 3d Session. Rebuilding the Capitol, President's house, and other public buildings in the City of Washington. Communi- cated, to the House of Representatives, November 21, 1814.] Mr. Lewis, from the committee to whom was referred a resolution “to inquire into the expediency of rebuilding or repairing the President’s house, Capitol, and public The Old Building. 175 offices, and of the expense necessary for that purpose, and whether the public interest or convenience would be promoted by any change or alteration of the sites of said buildings,” made the following report: That, amongst the first steps deemed necessary in discharge of the duties assigned them, they caused the superintendent of the city to lay before them the reports of several architects and mechanics of reputed skill and character, who had, at his request, examined the remains of the public buildings, all of whom reported, as their opinion, that the walls generally had not been materially damaged, and were not rendered unsafe or insufficient to rebuild on, conformably either to the former plans, or to some variations suggested, or such as may be adopted as improvements in the rebuilding. These reports were accompanied by estimates of various amounts, forming an average of $458,000. The whole first cost of these buildings appears to be $1,215,110 10. With the view of better understanding the grounds, and probable accuracy of the reports and estimates, the committee attended personally at the Capitol, and examined the state of that building, where; after a conference, and making such inquiries of an architect on the spot as were considered proper, they were induced to believe that the walls of both wings of the Capitol may be safely built on, and that the estimated expense of about $250,000 for repairing the same was as nearly accurate, and as mucti to be relied on as could be reasonably expected, or as circumstances either admitted or required. With the foregoing information, the committee proceeded to a due and general consideration of the subject-matter referred to them, and readily came to the decision that it was expedient, either to repair the late buildings, or to build others in their stead on different sites; but as it appeared that the latter could not be effected with- out incurring a great additional expense, so much greater (as the committee con- ceived) than would be counterbalanced by any ‘‘public interest or convenience,” to be derived from “a change of sites,” they were of opinion that it would be inexpe- dient to make such change. Connected with this part of the duty prescribed to the committee, it may not be improper that they should state to the House the repre- sentations of sundry individuals who allege, and offer to prove, that the designation of the present site by President Washington, who possessed full power, having been always considered by him as part of the permanent plan of the city, they purchased at very advanced prices, and improved lots, on the faith of those designations, near those sites; the supposed permanency whereof has ever since sustained the value of all adjacent and contiguous property; but that, if those sites were now to be altered or abandoned, without some equivalent public establishment being made thereon, they apprehend that this property would become comparatively valueless, during the lifetimes of the present holders at least. The committee, however, desire it to be understood that other views and considerations, having induced their decision on this member of the resolution under which their inquiries were directed, did not enter into the discussion of, or give any opinion on the force and validity of, those considerations. From the suggestions of the architects consulted, and also from the observations of the committee, they are of opinion that parts of the walls, arches, and columns of the late buildings are in a state requiring a small expense for workmanship and materials, to preserve them from injury by the weather, and from falling down, thereby endangering the vaulting which supports some of the floors, and which, at present, is very little, if at all, weakened by the burning; but as there is no money applicable to the payment of such expense, inconsiderable as it may be, the commit- tee beg leave to suggest the propriety of an appropriation for that object. The committee think it not irrelative to the object of their inquiries, though it is not specifically enjoined, to state also that the several banks within the District of Columbia, desirous of facilitating an object so interesting to the district, have made 17(3 Documentary History of the Capitol. a formal and binding offer in writing, to advance on loan to the Government, upon reasonable terms, the sum of §500,000, to be applied exclusively to the purpose of rebuilding or repairing the President’s house, Capitol, or public offices. Conformably to the foregoing statement the committee ask leave to report a bill. [Senate proceedings of Feb. 1, 1815: Annals of Congress, 13 — 3, p. 202.] The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill making appropriations for repairing or rebuilding the public buildings within the city of Washington. On motion, by Mr. Mason, that the further consideration thereof be postponed to the second Monday in March next, it was determined in the negative — yeas 7, nays 22, as follows: * * * Mr. Fromentin moved to recommit the bill to a select committee, further to consider and report thereon. The motion was postponed until to-morrow. [There took place on the subject an interesting debate. Messrs. Lacock, Barbour, Daggett, and Kerr, were the principal advocates of the bill, and Messrs. Mason, Dana, and German, its principal opponents.] [Senate proceedings of Feb. 3, 1815: Annals of Congress, 13 — 3, p. 216.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill making appropriations for repairing or rebuilding the public buildings within the City of Washington. Mr. Fromentin had moved yesterday to recommit the bill to a select committee. On this motion Mr. F. addressed the Chair as follows: Mr. President: I am called upon to give the reasons which prompted me to make the motion now under consideration. I will endeavor to give to the Senate such an account of my motives as will enable them to judge of the propriety of the reference. It may, perhaps, not be useless on this occasion to take a retrospective view of the length of time which has elapsed, after the erection of those buildings was deter- mined on, before they could be used for the purposes for which they were intended, and of the sums of money which have been spent upon their construction. We shall be the better able to anticipate the probable time when these buildings may again be occupied by Congress, and to form a correct estimate of the sums of money which we may have to appropriate for those purposes. Sir, it is more than twenty-three years, if I am correctly informed, since the public edifices, proposed now to be rebuilt, were begun to be erected. None of them, at the time of their destruction by the enemy, were completely finished; and I believe, the south wing of the Capitol was not ready for the reception of the House of Iiepre- sentatives more than four or five years before it was destroyed. If it be found neces- sary to rebuild, instead of repairing, the other hopeless alternative offered by the bill on your table, you may reasonably expect, taking into consideration the present situation of the country, especially if the war should continue, and thereby the diffi- culty of procuring materials, and of getting workmen, should be increased, that the two wings of the Capitol may be finished, and ready for the reception of both Houses of Congress, in about ten or twelve years. The public buildings, including the President’s House, did not cost less than fif- teen hundred thousand dollars. We are told that five hundred thousand dollars will replace those edifices in statu quo. Sir, notwithstanding my respect for the artists who have given an opinion on this subject, I have still some doubts of the practicability of making use of the walls as they are now standing. The architects The Old Building. 177 themselves are not positive on that point. They gave their opinion before the very severe frost, which we had this Winter, had its effect upon those susceptible and unprotected walls. Their opinion, if a new examination was now had, might be materially different; and the committee themselves, by reporting a bill for repair- ing or rebuilding the public buildings, instead of confining themselves to reporting a bill for repairing, have manifested a doubt, which it cannot be improper for me to entertain. If, then, you should ultimately be compelled to rebuild (and I firmly believe you will) the expense for rebuilding cannot be much less than the original cost of construction. The materials which you may save will about pay the expense of taking down the walls before you can rebuild. Great, indeed, I should almost say incalculable, must be the advantages presented by this favorite situation, which, under the pressure of our present emergencies, could induce this Congress to sacrifice such immense sums of money. Three principal reasons have been adduced in support of this bill by its friends. The pride of the nation has been appealed to, and pressed into the service of this bill. Sir, when gentlemen intrench themselves behind the inexpugnable bulwark of pride, it would be in vain to use any arguments directed to their sober judgment. As well might you attempt, sword in hand, to pierce the heart of your enemy, protected from your attack by a fortress, flanked with a hundred cannon. The fortress is to be taken first; and I know of no argument strong enough to batter down the fortress erected by pride. There is but one. way to come at it, sir; and it is by erecting alongside of it another pride fortress, and then fairly to begin the assault on both sides. I, too, have my pride — not a pride to be fed upon the unpaid blood of the soldier who wins our battles; not a pride to be gratified by the vain and useless display of a borrowed, ragged magnificence. No, sir; my pride is less voracious, it is less osten- tatious. Provide for filling the ranks of your Army; provide for clothing, feeding, and paying, your soldiers and sailors. Instead of borrowing money for building costly edifices, borrow money for protecting against an invading foe the edifices yet standing. Drive the enemy from the country; then, indeed, my pride will be satisfied; then I will, with pleasure, vote money, as much money as you please, for rebuilding our public edifices; and then the more magnificent the plan, the more elegant its execu- tion, the more my pride will be gratified. It is further said, in support of this bill, that- the plan recommended by the bill was the plan of Gen. Washington, and under the sanction of that imposing name an attempt is made to mislead our understanding. True, sir, this was the plan of Washington — but, under what circumstances? Washington was then President of the United States. The country then was rich; the country was prosperous. An extensive, unrestricted, and almost unlimited commerce brought then to the remotest corner of this vast continent all the treasures of a tributary world. The anxious eye of Washington measured the distances, and his capacious mind was not discouraged by them. The rapid, the almost prodigious progress of every improvement under his auspicious Administration, justified, in the opinion of that great and modest man, the anticipated expectations of corresponding improvements under the Administra- tion of his successors. Put, sir, what has been the result? Instead of realizing the high expectations of General Washington, from causes which it is foreign to my sub- ject here to investigate, this country once rich, is now poor; this country once pros- perous, is now fallen. I hope, sir, it will rise again; but till then, speak not to me of what Washington did. Speak what Washington would now advise; I say advise. The recollection of General Washington’s unshakeable firmness in the year 1795, forbids the idea of the possibility of his ever having had to act under such an accu- mulation of distressing circumstances. When I cast my eyes on this wilderness, dignified with the name of a city; a city to be sure, very unlike the old-fashioned European city, alluded to by the Irishman, who, when placed in the middle of it, complained that he could not see the city, H. Rep. 616 12 178 Documentary History of the Capitol. there were so many houses! Sir, we run no risk of hearing of any such complaints about this city. Every Irishman who arrives here may have a full view of the whole ground at once. None of those encumbrances called houses to limit the boundless prospects. Or, if there be a few, he may, among those few, open a complaisant gap through which his inquisitive eye may pierce to a distance, limited only by the foot of the surrounding hills. But, sir, the subject is too serious to admit of its being thus long treated with levity. Let me then return to it, and seriously inquire about the present state and future prospects of this city. What do we see here? Twelve or fifteen clusters of houses at a considerable distance from each other, bringing to our recollection the appearance of a camp of nomad Arabs, which, however, if con- nected together, would make a very respectable town, not much inferior, perhaps, to the capital of Virginia; and here and there an insulated house; the whole of it, when seen from the ruins of our public edifices, looking more like the place where proud Washington once stood, than where humble Washington now lies. If, sir, such is the situation of this city, after fifteen years since the Government removed here, during the six first years of which period there prevailed not only in this country, but all over Europe, a degree of enthusiasm bordering upon madness respect- ing the future destinies of this metropolis, and during which period of six years, too, this country enjoyed still the benefits of the Administration of Washington, whose good deeds for several years after his death were still in force — Washington, in his tomb, still securing the prosperity of this his beloved country — if, sir, such be now the situation of this city, what, in the present state of things, are our prospects for the future? Awful, indeed. How many ages must elapse before this chaos is likely to assume anything like a describable shape? How many, before these disjointed, distracted, warring elements may be brought together, so as to form a whole, which may entitle it to be what it now purports to be, but what it is not. Is it not time, then, that we should. give up the unsuccessful experiment? Is it not time, that we should adopt less lofty ideas, that we should assume sentiments, that we should express opinions more conformable to our present situation. Troja fuit , fait Ilium. It becomes us to be modest. Our laws to be wholesome, need not be enacted in a palace. A large, convenient, unadorned house, which will receive its lustre from Congress, instead of Congress borrowing it from the house, in the neighborhood of the public offices, in a part of the city which is best calculated by its actual improve- ments to afford accommodation to the members, and to facilitate their communica- tions with each other, will answer our purpose much better than the plan recom- mended by the bill on your table; and if the place to erect those edifices be judi- ciously selected, it is to me quite immaterial in what quarter of this city. For want of the necessary information as to the quantity of ground still owned by the Gov- ernment in the different parts of this city, I could not now form any opinion as to the spot where it would be proper to concentrate all our public edifices, whether temporarily or permanently. But I may be allowed to express a wish that it may be found convenient to place them as near as possible to Georgetown, not very dis- tant from the improvements known under the appellation of the Six and Seven Buildings; and I have little doubt, but that, when in compliance with the uniform laws of nature, you shall have blown up a soul into this city by creating a heart from which the blood may uninterruptedly circulate to the remotest extremities, the improvements will, by degrees, extend in every direction, until the now most dis- tant parts from that spot, no longer shrivelled, sickly, lingering, rootless slips, destined to vegetate a few mornings, in an unncongenial soil, being in their turn reconnected with a sturdy, robust trunk, from which they will derive an invigorating sap, will soon spread a wide hospitable foliage, and become a flourishing portion of a city, the future prosperity of which cannot now, if it come at all, be secured in any other way. I am not unaware, sir, that such a plan will call into action against it all the pri- vate interests which will conceive themselves to be aggrieved by it. But, let private The Old Building. 179 interest beware. In my opinion, unless some such plan is resorted to, without some such compromise is made, the Government will not, cannot remain here many years. The inconveniences are too serious, and they are not to he surmounted. I speak not of them with reference to the individual inconvenience of the members. I speak of them in reference to their public duties. It is unnecessary to repeat what I before stated, when I had the honor to address you on the subject of this bill. Only reflect on the only mode in which we can transact business in this place. Selected from various places of this immense empire, we meet here, not altogether free from the prejudices which prevail more or less in every part of the country we come from. This social intercourse which ought to prevail, which I am sure should prevail, did we know each other otherwise than through the incorrect medium of party represen- tation, is entirely prohibited by the insuperable obstacles which the present situation of this city puts in our way. To these local prejudices are to be added party spirit, prejudices which pursue us unremittingly, and will not let go their hold of us in this very sanctuary. This party spirit, instead of being softened into something like con- ciliation, by a constant intercourse, is hardened into unutterable asperity by the mode of life, we are compelled from imperious circumstances, to pursue in this place. The very houses where we board have become a test by which to ascertain the polit- ical opinions which we are supposed to profess. We never meet, but in battle array. Is it wonderful, that under these discouraging circumstances, so many months should be wasted in transacting business which, under less unfavorable auspices, might have been gone through in as many weeks. Sir, it is my firm conviction, that if we pro- ceed on to passing this bill in its present shape, the question of removal of the seat of the Government from this place, which was advocated at the beginning of this session in the other branch of the Legislature, will soon want no advocate at all; it wall soon become a matter of necessity, of sheer necessity. There may be still many unsuc- cessful attempts, but, sir, the best interests of the nation cannot forever be sacrificed. After some struggling, an attempt will succeed at last; and it will then be too late for the opposers of the plan which I have suggested to give themselves up to unavailing repentance. Mr. President, I want to prevent such a state of things. 1 am unwilling to bring for- ward again, at any time, the question of a permanent seat of Government. I want this sacred spot — sacred still in my eyes, although temporarily polluted by the foot of the enemy, as long as it bears the name of Washington; I want this spot to remain forever the permanent seat of the Government of theUnited States. But, sir, I know of but two ways to accomplish that object; either by a temporary removal by the very act provid- ing for which we should provide likewise for our return; not provide simply; 1 do not mean bv a clause in the bill to that effect, but by previous appropriations, by contracts, which it should not be in the power of any succeeding Congress to repeal, or by an immediate concentration of the public buildings on a modest, economical and com- modious plan. Of these two modes, I prefer the last, as likely to meet with fewer obstacles, as being much less expensive, but principally as being much more consonant to the principles of the justice which we owe to the people of this District. Sir, when this bill was reported, I inquired from the honorable chairman of the committee who reported it, for the papers relating to the original fixation of the several places for the building of the public edifices. I inquired for the contracts with the original proprietors of the soil, or with the purchasers. I was answered, that there was no such instrument. I shall take no advantage from this concession; in my view of the subject, there was a contract — a solemn contract; anti if by any possible way it could be avoided, I would not now agree to altering, in its most inconsiderable dispositions, any part of the original plan. I am sensible, that by so doing, we seem to punish the people of this District for having placed too much confidence in our words. In our words, did I say? In our acts, sir! Look at the new ruins of the monuments on yonder hill. Were these massy Avails, which have set at defiance the whole power of an enemy bent on destruction, intended to last only the short space of a dozen years? 180 Documentary History of the Capitol. In these surviving walls I read, in characters not to be effaced, the contract of the nation with the people of the District. I find in these walls an agreement signed, sealed, and delivered. Certainly, sir, you must be convinced, from what I have just now said, that I do not dissemble to myself, and that I am not willing to conceal from others, the equity of the claims of the people of this District. But what is to be done? Imperious necessity commands a sacrifice of some sort. A compromise must take place. You have but a choice of evils. The very bill on your table promises a tardy relief to the people on Capitol Hill, at the end of ten or twelve years. Under these impressions, and under the belief too, that the people of the District at large are ulti- mately to be benefitted by a concentration, for the reasons previously advanced, however a few may appear likely to be sufferers by any ultimate determination as to the spot where the concentration is to take place; and under an unshakeable per- suasion, that by a strict adherence to the old plan, in our present circumstances, as recommended by the bill on your table, the people of this District, by grasping at too much, will ultimately lose all — from motives of economy; from motives of duty to the people of the United States; from motives of indispensable convenience to our- selves to enable us faithfully to discharge our public duties; from motives of justice to the people of this District — I have been induced to make the motion to refer that bill to a committee, for the purpose of reporting another bill to concentrate the public buildings. Sir, I am disposed to sacrifice everything, but my duty to the people of the United States at large, to keep the seat of Government here; and if you agree to concentrate the public buildings, in the hope of speedy improvements, by which many of the inconveniences which now affect the public interest will be removed, I am perfectly reconciled to remaining in this city. But, sir, if we are to remain here as we now are, with no other cheering prospects than those presented in the bill on your table, I do not hesitate to declare, that any place in the United States appears to me preferable to Washington, and the sooner we go, no matter where, no matter how heavy the amount of compensation justly due to the inhabitants of this District, the better. When Mr. F. had concluded — The question to recommit the bill to a select committee, was determined in the negative— yeas 13, nays 20, as follows: On motion, by Mr. Lacock, to strike out, of section 1, line 4, after the words “Capitol,” the words “and public offices; ”• and to insert, after “Washington,” line 5, “and that two suitable buildings for public offices be erected on such part of the Capitol square as shall be designated by the President of the United States;” and to insert, in the 4th line, the word “and,” before “Capitol:” a division of the question was called for by Mr. Dana, and was taken on striking out, and determined in the negative — yeas 13, nay IS, as follows: • ■H- -ft- And the bill having been amended, by striking out the second section thereof, the President reported it to the House accordingly; and the bill was ordered to be engrossed and read the third time as amended. . [House proceedings of Feb. 7, ISIS: Annals of Congress, 13—3, p. 1132 ] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The House then, on motion of Mr. Lewis, resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole on the bill from the Senate making an appropriation of five hundred thousand dollars, for repairing or rebuilding the public buildings in the City of Washington. [The money is to be borrowed of banks or individuals within the District, at six per cent, interest, for rebuilding or repairing the Capitol, the President’s House, and public offices, on their present sites.] The Old Building. 181 A debate arose on this bill which occupied the remainder of the daj^’s sitting. The advocates of the main object of the bill were, Messrs. Lewis, Fisk of Vermont, Rhea of Tennessee, Ingersoll, Wright, Grosvenor, Duval, Bowen, McIvim, Ship- herd, Hawkins, and Pearson; its opponents, Messrs. Alston, Farrow, and Webster. Of those who advocated the bill, there were several (Messrs. Ingersoll, Grosvenor, Duvall, and Shipherd) who have been in favor of a removal of the Seat of Govern- ment; but, considering the question as settled by the votes in both Houses, desired now to see the city rebuilt and beautified. The debate was not so much on the expediency of rebuilding or repairing the public buildings, as on the mode of doing it. Mr. Goldsboro ugh moved to strike out from the bill the “ President’s House,” so as to confine the repairs to the Capitol and public offices, with a view to leave the repair of the President’s Plouse to times of more leisure and tranquillity than the present, and also with a view to a future concentration of the public buildings. This motion, after debate, was negatived by a large majority. Air. Grosvenor then moved an, amendment, the object of which was, to cause the public offices to be removed to the public grounds on Capitol Hill, near the Capitol. This motion, after debate, was agreed to, 66 to 56. The Committee than rose and reported the amendments to the House; and the House forthwith adjourned. [House proceedings of Feb. 8, 1815: Annals of Congress, 13 — 3, p. 1134.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The House resumed the consideration of the report of the Committee of the Whole, on the bill for making appropriations for repairing or rebuilding the public buildings in the city of Washington. That amendment being under consideration which requires the public offices to be built on Capitol Hill — Mr. Lewis, of Virginia, rose and said, that he hoped the House would not concur in the amendment made in Committee of the Whole. After the lengthy discussion of this subject yesterday, it was with extreme reluctance that he again obtruded himself upon the patience of the House; but the deep stake which the State he had the honor to represent, in part, had in its decision, he trusted would be a sufficient apology. Mr. L. said, that since yesterday, he had been enabled to fortify the opinions he had advanced in opposition to the amendment, by an authority which ought to be revered by all. He had obtained the correspondence between General Washington, then President of the United States, and Air. Adams his successor, and the commis- sioners for the city, upon the subject 'of the location of the public offices, which he would take the liberty of reading. He then read a letter from Air. White, one of the commissioners, who stated ‘‘that in a conversation with General Washington upon the subject of the location of the public buildings, the General was decidedly of opinion, that the offices of the different departments should be as convenient to the President as possible, and that it was unnecessary, for any public convenience, that they should be contiguous to the Legislative Hall; indeed, that the officers had complained to him when in Philadelphia, that it was impossible to attend to their public duties from the constant call of the members, and that they were obliged to deny themselves.” He also read a letter from the commissioners of the city, to General Washington at Mount Vernon, requesting him to fix on the sites for the public offices, and his answer, fixing a day for that purpose — and a letter from Air. Adams, ratifying and confirming the acts of the commissioners in fixing the sites of the public offices under the direction of General Washington. 182 Documentary History of the Capitol. Thus then, said Mr. L., we have not only the opinion of that illustrious man, as to the most proper sites for the public offices, but we have evidence that ought to sat- isfy the most incredulous, that he actually came upon the ground, and marked the very spots upon which the buildings were to be placed, and these acts were officially confirmed by his successor, Mr. Adams. But my honorable friend from New York (Mr. Gteosvenor) has said, that General Washington had been teased and importuned by those interested into the location he had made. Sir, said Mr. L., my honorable friend can know little of the character of that great man, if he believes there existed a being who dared approach him in that way. No, sir, as soon would he attempt to grasp the forked lightning, as to intimate a wish that he would swerve from his public duty. There were many considerations, said Mr. L., why no changes ought to be made in the present plan of the city, or of the sites for the public buildings; and that which operated most irresistibly with him was, that it was a plan sanctioned by that greatandgood man, whose name it bears. Sir, said Mr. L., whatthatman hasdone, let no mortal attempt to undo. His ways are not to be mended by man. This House is not competent to do it. He considered the two public edifices the foundation stones of which our ever to be revered hero, statesman, and patriot, laid, as perma- nently fixed, by public faith; particularly as maps were distributed throughout Europe, with the sanction of President Washington, designating the sites of the Capitol, President’s House, and other public buildings, and that foreigners had been induced to purchase property, judging of its value from its contiguity to some one of the public edifices as marked upon the map. Change the situation of your city, and they are deceived and injured; hereafter they will have no confidence in your acts. We have been told, that large quantities of our public stock have been lately sent to Holland for sale. Is it to be believed, sir, with a knowledge of what we are about to do, (for it is in that country that our city lots have been sold, and held as security for money borrowed, ) that they will trust us for a cent, when everything which they deemed sacred is thus violated? No, sir, they will not, and I will say, they ought not to trust us. But, sir, if we have no regard to our plighted faith to foreigners, let us at least save our own people. Do not, by this act, ruin thousands of honest, industrious mechanics, who have at very advanced prices purchased and improved lots near the present sites, under an assurance and firm belief in their permanency. Let us not do an act which will excite distrust abroad and contempt at home. But, why are gentlemen desirous of removing the offices from their present sites near the President’s House, to the Capitol square? It had been shown, he hoped satisfactorily, that their appropriate place was near the President’s House, and not the Capitol. The President must necessarily have considerable intercourse with the offices; but he was unable to see the necessity of any personal intercourse between the members of the Legislature and the offices. It is known that all public business between Congress or its members, and the public offices, is done by a resolution of the House, or by letter from any individual member, which is conveyed by a mes- senger of Congress paid for that purpose. In addition to the reasons given for a preference of the old sites, there would be a saving of more than one half of the expense. The committee, to whom this subject was confided, attended personally at the Capitol, and examined the state of that building, when, after a conference, and making such inquiries of an architect on the spot, as was considered proper, they were induced to believe that the walls of both wings of the Capitol might be safely built on, and that the estimated expense of about §250,000 for repairing the same, was as nearly accurate, as could be reasonably expected. The President’s House and the offices were not so particularly examined, but it was the opinion of the committee, that the whole might be repaired for about The Old Building. 183 $500,000, which would be $715,110 less than the firstcost of those buildings. But, Mr. L. said there was another objection which would be, with him, an insuperable one; and that was, that he would not be compelled by an act of the enemy to abandon, or changein the smallest degree, any of the plans of the public edifices they had destroyed. He would rebuild them precisely on the same ground; not a stone or brick should be changed, but they should be finished in a style of increased magnificence and grandeur. It never should be said, because the enemy had destroyed our Capitol, that Congress were afraid to rebuild it, lest it might again be destroyed. No, let us have another trial, and if we cannot then defend our Capitol, it will be time to put an end to the war in the best way we can. My friend from North Carolina (Mr. Gaston) objects to an appropriation of so much money at a time like this, when the Treasury is bankrupt, our soldiers unpaid, &c., for repairing the public buildings; but he has no objection to double the sum for the purpose of rebuiling on new sites. How inconsistent! The gentleman from North Carolina ought to recollect, that not a cent of this appropriation would come out of the Treasury. The banks of the District had generously and magnanimously come forward and offered to loan the amount wanted upon reasonable terms, for the accomplishment of an object so interesting to the District; and it was probable that the sales of lots belonging to the public in the city, would furnish money enough to reimburse the loan before it became due. Reject this amendment — pass this bill, which will restore public confidence, and there will be no difficulty in selling, at good prices, the property of the public, which is now worthless. My friend from New Hampshire (Mr. Webster) says, he does not think this a proper time to make an appropriation for building up the Cap- itol, and recommends that some trifling alterations be made in the present room, which will then answer very well until we have peace. Mr. L. said, he congratu- lated his friend upon the sudden change of his feelings. It was but a few days since, the gentleman could not exist in this confined, inconvenient, and unwholesome room, and nothing but the pure atmosphere of Philadelphia would satisfy him; but now it seems, when it is ascertained he cannot get to Philadelphia, that he is perfectly reconciled with the present, room, and thinks it good enough for w T ar times. The gentleman from New Hampshire also complains, that this city is deficient in popula- tion, in wealth and commerce, and therefore an improper place for the seat of Gov- ernment. If it be true that it is thus deficient, to what, I ask, is it to be ascribed? Let those who, like the gentleman from New Hampshire, are desirous of removing the seat of Government, answer. It is to the repeated efforts to remove, to retrocede, and to concentrate, which have been alternately made for the last twelve years in Congress, that the population and wealth of Washington have not equalled any other town on the continent of its age. What prudent man, I ask, would risk his fortune in making improvements in a place, that was every year threatened with destruction, by the very power who ought to foster and protect it? If inconveniences have been felt from the dispersed population of the city and the want of accommodations, those alone are accountable who by their own acts have produced both. The people of this District are political orphans. They have been abandoned by their legitimate parents, and calim protection of us, who are constitutionally bound to protect them ; but, instead of extending to them the parental hand of affection and assistance, we cruelly abandon them to their fate. If they ask us for bread, we give them a stone. If they even ask us for justice, we tell them they are rudely importunate. Instead of extending to them the parental hand of affection, we do all in our power to blight and destroy their fair prospects. If we arc not disposed to be their guardians and friends, let us at least do nothing to injure them; let them pursue undisturbed their own way, and you will not have to complain of the want of population, wealth, or accommoda- tions in the city. There are few places in the United States possessing greater com- mercial advantages than Washington; placed at the head of an excellent navigation, 184 Documentary History of the Capitol. supported by an extensive and wealthy back country in Virginia and Maryland, and in a climate extremely healthy; if it has but fair play it will soon rival many of the most important towns in the Union, in wealth and population. The public are greatly interested in promoting the welfare of the city, as it would make very valuable a large property given by the proprietors of the land on which the city stands, which at present is worth nothing. The proprietors of the city gave the land to the public, with an undersaanding that the sites for the public buildings should remain unchanged; therefore the present alteration would be unjust as to them- The States of Virginia and Maryland have both a deep stake in the permanency of the seat of Government. Virginia made a donation of $120,000, and a cession of a moiety of ten miles square of her territory, including a town which was the pride of the State. Maryland made a donation of $75,000 and a cession of a moiety of ten miles square of her territory, including a town, second to one only in the State; and these States will not view with complacency any act which may have a tendency to jeopardize the Seat of Government. All the country within fifty miles of the seat of Government, both in Virginia and Maryland, are greatly interested in the welfare of the city, and representing, as I do, an adjoining district, whose property would diminish at least 50 per cent, in value, if the Government is removed, I trust I shall be excused for the solicitude I have manifested, and the time I have occupied in the- discussion. The amendment was also opposed by Messrs. Mason, Forsyth, and others, and advocated by Messrs. Grosvenor and Wright. The question having been taken after much debate, by yeas and nays, was decided — For the amendment 55, against it 77. ■fc vr ■5? The effect of this decision is, that the public offices shall be rebuilt on their old sites. Mr. Bigelow moved to amend the bill so as to require the President, previously to expending the money to be appropriated, to cause to be laid before Congress a plan and estimates for the buildings; by which, he believed, one-half of the expense might be saved. This motion was opposed as unnecessary, by Mr. Lewis, and negatived — ayes 39. Mr. Farrow assigned the reasons why he should vote against the bill; not because he was against rebuilding, but because of the great scarcity of money in the Treasury. Mr. Stanford moved to recommit the bill, with instructions to make some report as to concentration, and the manner and method of executing the provisions of the bill. This motion was opposed by Mr. Lewis, and negatived — ayes 44. The question on ordering the bill to be read a third time, was then decided as follows: ■* * * Yeas, 67; nays, 55. [House proceedings of Feb. 9, 1S15: Annals of Congress, 13 — 3, p. 1141.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The bill from the Senate making an appropriation for rebuilding or repairing the public buildings in the City of Washington was read a third time. Mr. Pickering spoke against the bill, on the general ground of opposition to the permanency of the seat of Government. A motion was made bv Mr. Webster, that the said bill be recommitted to a select committee, with instructions so to alter the bill as to appropriate twenty thjusand The Old Building. 185 dollars to the preservation of the public buildings in the City of Washington, and to the improvement and repairs of the building in which Congress now sit, for its bet- ter accommodation therein — said sum to be paid out of any moneys in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated — and to strike out of the bill the appropriation of the sum of five hundred thousand dollars. This motion was advocated by the mover, and by Messrs. Grosvenor, Gaston, Wright, and Alston; and opposed by Messrs. Lewis, Fisk of New York, Rhea of Tennessee, and McKim. The debate was long and warmly contested by the affirm- ative side of the House. The question being taken thereon, it was determined in the negative — yeas 67, nays 79. * * * Mr. Taylor moved that the said bill be recommitted to the Committee for the Dis- trict of Columbia, with instructions to prepare and report to this House amendments for concentrating the public buildings, to be erected in the City of Washington, for the accommodation of the Government. And the question being taken thereon, it was determined in the negative — yeas 65, nays 78. * * * After much zealous debate, the question was then taken, Shall the bill pass? and passed in the affirmative — yeas 78, nays 63. * * * [“An Act making appropriations for repairing or rebuilding the public buildings within the city of Washington,” approved Feb. 13, 1815. (Stats, at Large, v. 3, 205.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the President of the United States cause to be repaired or rebuilt forthwith, the President’s House, Capitol and public offices, on their present sites in the city of Washington, and that he be authorized to borrow, at an interest not exceeding six per centum per annum, from any bank or banks within the District of Columbia, or from any individual or individuals, a sum not exceeding five hundred thousand dollars, to be applied exclusively to that object. [Msr.: Letters of the Presidents of the United States, p. 174: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Montpelier May 23, 1815. Gentlemen, I have reed, your letter of the 16th inclosing a letter from Messrs. Carroll, Law & May, with your answer. It is very agreeable to learn that your progress & prospects are so favorable to the undertaking committed to you. In carrying into execution the law for rebuilding the public Edifices, it will best comport with its objects & its provisions, not to deviate from the models destroyed, farther than material & manifest convincing, or general & known opinion, may bring the alterations within the prescribed contemplation of Congress. How far those pro- posed by Mr. Latrobe, for whose judgment & taste I have great respect, are of this character, I suspend an opinion, until I can form one with the advantage of being on the spot, which will not be delayed very many days. In the mean time, the general progress of the business will probably not be affected. From the view of the subject which first presents itself, it does not appear that the object of the letter from the gentlemen above named, can be legally complied with. 186 Documentary History of the Capitol. The fund for the rebuildings, being exclusively appropriated to that object, is not applicable to any other, — and the present case will not, like the unforseen & contin- gent one produced by the destruction of the public buildings, justify a resort to the fund provided for cases of necessity and contingency. It is to be understood however that no interference is intended, with any purpose they may form, of providing of themselves & tendering to Congress, accommodations, on such conditions as they may think equitable & proper. It is meant only that the Executive is not authorized to contribute to it by advances from the Treasury; or to anticipate in any manner the course which it lies with Congress to adopt. Accept my respects, James Madison. John P. Vanness, Rich’d. B. Lee, French Ringold. [House proceedings of Dec. 14, 1815: Annals of Congress, 14 — 1, p. 386. J On motion of Mr. Lewis, the Committee for the District of Columbia were instructed to inquire into the expediency of completing the Capitol, by erecting a centre building, according to the original plan. [House proceedings of Feb. 16, 1816: Annals of Congress, 14 — 1, p. 997.] Mr. J ewett submitted the following resolution; which was read and ordered to lie on the table: Resolved, That the President of the United States be requested to cause to be laid before this House, a statement of all expenses which have been incurred in the City of Washington, under the authority of the United States, for erecting edifices of any kind,. and for repairing and ornamenting buildings of any kind, and for improving the streets and squares of the city, and for all other purposes of orna- ment and improvement, (excepting the navy yard and its buildings and improvements,) designating, as specifically as the nature of the case will admit, the years when the several expenditures were incurred, the purposes to which they were applied, and the funds out of which the same were paid or appropriated, distinguishing between such payments as were made out of the Treasury of the United States, and such as were made out of the proceeds of the sales of the public property within the District of Columbia, or out of other district funds, or donations received: and also a statement of the amount of the funds derived from the sale of lots, and other public property within the City of Washington, and of the probable value of the public property remaining on hand. [House proceedings of Feb. 17, 1816: Annals of Congress, 14 — 1, p. 997.] On motion of Mr. Jewett, the House proceeded to consider the resolution submitted by him yesterday, and the same being again read, was agreed to by the House; and Mr. Jewett and Mr. Thomas were appointed a committee to present the said reso- lution to the President. [American State Papers, Class X, Mise. v. II, 294. No. 402. 14th Congress, 1st Session. City of Wash- ington: Public expenditures, and value of public property. Communicated to the House of Rep- resentatives, March 11, 1S16.] I transmit to the House of Representatives a report of the Secretary of the Treas- ury, complying with their resolution of the 17th of February. James Madison. March 11, 1816. The Old Building. 187 The Secretary of the Treasury, to whom the President of the United States referred the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 17th of February, 1816, requesting a statement of certain expenses which have been incurred for public edifices and improvements in the city of Washington, under the authority of the United States, has the honor to report: That the annexed schedule A, certified by the superintendent of the city, contains a general abstract of the receipts and expenditures, and of the objects of expendi- ture, in relation to the city of Washington, under the authority of the United States, so far as the same occurred under the agency of the board of commissioners, or of the superintendent of the city, respectively, from the year 1791 to the 1st of January, 1816. That the annexed schedule B, certified by the Register of the Treasury, contains a statement of moneys which have been advanced by the United States, and of the objects of expenditure, in relation to the city of Washington, other than those included in the preceding schedule. That from the schedule A it appears that the aggregate of the expend- itures under the board of commissioners and the superintendent of the city, amounted, on the 1st of January, 1816, to the sum of $1, 746, 014 46 Of which there was drawn from the treasury the sum of $970, 944 08 Of which there was received upon donation from the States of Maryland and Virginia the sum of 192, 000 00 Of which there was received from the sale of lots, as- signed by the original proprietors as a grant, the sum of 583, 070 38 $1, 746, 014 46 That, from the schedule B, it appears that the aggregate amount of the moneys advanced by the United States, upon specific appropri- ations and authorized loans, in addition to the above, amounted, on the 1st of January, 1816, to the sum of 261, 325 45 The gross amount of expenditures, on the 1st of January, 1816, being the sum of $2, 007, 339 91 That the value of the public property remaining on hand is estimated by the super- intendent of the city, in a letter dated the 27th of February, 1816, at the sum of $1,724,000. 1. About 5,200 standard and.building lots of 5,265 square feet each, which, estimated at $180 per lot, the average price of the lots heretofore sold, would amount to the sum of $936, 000 00 2. Five hundred and forty-one acres of ground in the city of Wash- ington, reserved for the use of the United States, which, esti- mated at the same rate, though deemed of much greater value, would amount to the sum of 740, 000 00 3. Lands and freestone quarries in Virginia, wharves and water lots in the city of Washington, and debts due for property sold, about 48, 000 00 $1,724,000 00 All which is respectfully submitted. Treasury Department, March 6, 1816. A. J. Dallas, Secretary of the Treasury. 188 Documentary History of the Capitol. A. General abstract. — Account of receipts and expenditures in relation to the city of Washing- ton, under the authority of the United States, in which the late Board of Commissioners and the Superintendent of the city, their successor in office, had any agency, from the com- mencement, in the year 1791, to the 1st of January, 1816; prepared in obedience to a res- olution of the House of Representat ives of the United States, passed on the 17th of February, 1816. Receipts. Donations from State of Virginia, 1791 $120, 000. 00 Donations from State of Maryland, 1791 72,000.00 From the Treasury the United States, In the year 1798. In the year 1799. In the year 1800. In the year 1802. In the year 1803. In the year 1804. In the year 1805. In the year 1806. In the year 1807. In the year 1808. In the year 1809. In the year 1810. In the year 1811. In the year 1812. In the year 1813. of viz: $50, 000. 00 50, 000. 00 10 . 000. 00 49, 650. 93 52, 000. 00 112, 423. 91 130.800. 00 132. 400. 00 111,000.00 137, 196. 24 59. 600. 00 37. 500. 00 3, 300. 00 18. 573. 00 16,500. 00 Sales of lots and other property within the District of Columbia, assigned to the United States by the original proprietors thereof, to be applied as a grant, agreea- bly to the act of Congress estab- lishing the temporary and perma- nent seat of the Government of the United States Amount. Expenditures. Amount, $192, 000. 00 970, 944. 08 583, 070. 38 On the Capitol, including both wings, foundation ol the centre, all alterations, additions, and repairs, temporary buildings, and other works for the accommoda- tion of Congress On the President’s house and ap- tenant grounds On the public offices On thegroundsin the city of Wash- ington reserved for the use of the United States On the stone quarries on Aquia creek, in Virginia, and in the city of Washington on land pur- chased for and still belonging to the United States On surveying the territory and city, and markingand bounding the same, including the expense of engraving maps and plans, planting corner-stonesof squares, and of preparing a general sys- tem of graduation On opening and improving streets. On a stone bridge, (which fell down,) and the present wooden drawbridge and adjoining cause- way at the mouth of Rock creek, deducting $9,333.33. the amount of the sale of a portion of ground on the Georgetown side of said causeway, jvhich was ceded to the commissioners for that pur- pose On a wooden bridge over Tiber creek, in Seventh street west On a wooden bridge over James’s creek, in N street south On wharves to land freestone and other building materials on, viz: one on the Eastern Branch, one on the Potomac river, and one at the mouth of Rock creek On temporary buildings for work- men and laborers, including a house used as a hospital for sick laborers hired by the year, and the expense of medicine and at- tendance On the canal from Tiber creek to James’s creek On interests, commissions, and dis- counts on loans and other pecun- iary transactions, including those relating to loans of $250,000, by the State of Maryland, of United States six per cent, stock in the years 1797, 1798, and 1799, repaid finally in 1808; this being the amount, after deducting nett pro- ceeds or amont derived from said loans on the sale of the stock so borrowed, or the difference be- tween the nominal amount bor- rowed and repaid with interest, and that actually received and ap- plied On the city of Washington, em- bracing all other expenses in- curred, and not included in any of the above-enumerated ac- counts, being for purposes of a $804, 343. 22 334, ,482. 19 117, 184. 66 38, 697. 92 30, 225. 31 67, 469. 76 33, 646. 82 12,775.40 1,425.00 841. 59 9,130.17 4, 681. 23 5,670. 61 165, 533. 93 The Old Building. 189 General abstract. — Account of receipts and expenditures in relation to the city of Washing- ton, under the authority of the United States, etc. — Continued. Receipts. Amount. Expenditures. Amount. general nature, such as salaries of commissioners, superinten- dents, clerks, and others em- ployed as theirpermanent agents and assistants; office rent, fuel, stationary, and furniture; print- ing, drawing, authenticating and recording deeds, plats, and di- visions of squares: law proceed- ings, and awarded valuations of buildings removed out of streets; and the various other subjects of expenditure in the preparatory arrangements and progressive operations in the af- fairs of the city from 1791 to 1816, not so properly chargeable to any other account $119, 906. 65 $1, 746, 014. 46 $1,746, 014.46 E. E. Office of Superintendent of the City of Washington, February Z7, 1816. Thomas Munrob, Superintendent. [Senate proceedings of Apr. 3, 1816: Annals of Congress, 14 — 1, p. 280.] Mr. King, front the committee appointed on the subject, submitted the following motion for consideration : Resolved , That the Senate approve of the alterations suggested for the enlargment of the Senate room, and the better arrangement of the offices of the Senate; and that the plan of the proposed alterations drawn by the surveyor of the public buildings, together with a copy of this resolution, be transmitted to the President of the United States. [Senate proceedings of Apr. 6, 1816: Annals of Congress, 14 — 1, p. 296.] The Senate resumed the consideration of the resolution submitted the 3d instant, approving the alterations suggested for the enlargment of the Senate room, and the better arrangement of offices of the Senate; and agreed thereto. [From the “Act making an appropriation for enclosing and improving the public square near the capitol; and to abolish the office of commissioners of the public buildings, and of superintendent, and for the appointment, of one commissioner for the public buildings,” approved Apr. 29, 1816. (Stats at Large, v. 3, 325.)] Sec. 6. And be it further enacted, That the President of the United States be, and hereby is, authorized and empowered, in repairing the public buildings in the city of Washington, to make such alterations in the plans thereof, respectively, as he shall judge proper, for the better accommodation of the two houses of Congress, the President of the United States, and the various departments of the Government, or any of them. [American State Papers, Class X, Misc. v. II, 426. — No. 431. 14th Congress, 2d Session. City of Washington: Progress made in rebuilding the public edifices. Communicated to the House of Representatives, February 18, 1817.] Mr. Condict made the following report: The Committee on the Public Buildings have been unable to obtain, until the 13tli instant, an estimate of the expenses to be incurred in re-erecting the public edifices, which has necessarily delayed to so late a period of the session the report which they now present to the House. 190 Documentary History of the Capitol. Early in the session the committee addressed a letter to Colonel Lane, the com- missioner, desiring him to furnish a statement of the progress made in repairing the buildings, the amount of moneys disbursed, with such other information on the subject as he might think important. On the 3d January the committee addressed a second letter to the commissioner, requesting a statement exhibiting the number of laborers employed during the season, and the compensation given them; the names and number of persons employed either as clerks, superintendents, master workmen, or overseers, not actually employed at hand labor, with the wages allowed them; and, also, whether any dif- ference is made in the price of a day’s labor in different seasons. On the 29th of January the committee requested to be furnished with a detailed estimate of the probable expenses to be incurred in completing the buildings, and what particular causes had retarded the progress of the south wing of the Capitol, and when it might probably be ready for the accommodation of Congress. This correspondence, including the answers of Colonel Lane, the commissioner, with the accounts of his disbursements, the reports made to him by the architects of the Cap- itol and President’s house, their respective estimates, &c., are all included herein, and submitted as a part of this report. Besides the detailed account of disbursements made to individuals for the various items of expenditure, there is submitted here- with a summary showing the amount expended for materials, for labor, and incidental expenses, each item separately, for the Capitol and for the President’s house. Another view of the expenditures is submitted, showing the amount disbursed by the three commissioners under the act of 1815, on each of the public buildings, viz: the Capitol, President’s house, and the offices, as well as the sum expended by the present commissioner on each one of the same objects. The committee have every reason to believe that the commissioner, Colonel Lane, has faithfully devoted his time and services to the discharge of his duties, and that the public moneys intrusted to his care have been applied as economically as circum- stances would permit. In some instances a high price has been paid for materials, owing to the scanty supplies furnished by the markets of this place, and where the immediate want of the article did not allow time to seek it elsewhere. The committee deem it their duty also to state that a considerable sum has been expended, and much time lost, in pulling down and rebuilding a part of the work done in 1815, from a change of the plan of the Senate chamber and the adjacent apartments. For particulars, they refer to the commissioner’s letter of 15th Febru- ary, 1815. To enable the commissioner to proceed with the greatest despatch in completing the public buildings, the committee have thought it advisable that an additional appropriation be made for the service of the coming year, and therefore submit the following resolution for the consideration of the House: Resolved, That it is expedient to appropriate the further sum of dollars towards the completion of the public buildings. Capitol, November 28, 1816. Sir: Agreeably to your desire, I submit the following report upon the present state of the Capitol, and upon the progress which has been made in repairing and com- . pleting the building during the late season. 1. The south wing of the Capitol. The south wing of the Capitol remains internally in the state in which it was left at the close of the year 1815, excepting in as far as the suggestions of the committee of the House of Representatives to the person appointed to superintend the repairs of the Capi- The Old Building. 191 iol have been so far executed as to prepare the south windows of their hall for an access to a platform along the south front. Externally, all the injury which was done to the windows and doors by the fire has been repaired. To account for the apparently neglected state of this part of the Capitol, it is neces- sary to enter into a detail of the circumstances which occasioned it. When Congress resolved to repair and rebuild the public buildings, the District was divested of all building materials. The hall of Representatives was so ruined that, although the columns and the vault they supported still stood, it was inevitably necessary to take them down, so as to clear the whole area of the principal story of the former work. On this occasion a plan was submitted to and approved by the President, by which the inconveniences experienced in the former House were endeavored to be obvi- ated, and the areas both of the House and gallery considerably enlarged. To execute this plan, and to repair the public buildings generally, large supplies of freestone were necessary. The quarries, which are situated forty miles below the city on the Potomac, had been neglected for some years, and time and much labor were required to open them. Contracts were made by the proper officers for the freestone with several persons, proprietors of the' old quarries, and new quarries were opened and engaged in the supply. But as yet no stone equal in quality, and as fit for the most important parts of the work as that formerly produced, has been found in any old or new quarry; and, as far as the work has proceeded, stone of coarser texture has una- voidably been employed, strength and durability being the only qualities which could be attended to. For the columns, and for various other parts of the House of Representatives, no freestone that could be at all admitted has been discovered. Other resources were therefore sought after. A stone hitherto considered only as an incumbrance to agri- culture, which exists in inexhaustible quantity at the foot of the most southeasterly range of our Atlantic mountains, (probably along the greatest part of their extent, but certainly from the Roanoke to the Schuylkill,) and which the present surveyor of the Capitol, and probably others, had many years ago discovered to be a very hard but beautiful marble — this was examined, and, after much labor and persever- ance, has been proved to answer every expectation that was formed, not only of its beauty, but of its capacity to furnish columns of any length, and to be applicable to any purpose to which colored marble can be applied. The present commissioner of the public buildings has, therefore, entered into a contract for all the columns, and progress has been made in quarrying them. They may be procured each in a single block, should the transportation be found convenient, A block of one of the pilasters lies ready to be brought down to Washington, and will probably arrive in a few days. The quarries are situated in Loudoun county, Virginia, and Montgomery county, Maryland. But not only for the columns, but for the entablature also, many very important blocks are still deficient, which must necessarily be of freestone. Those which have been procured have been wrought as fast as they arrived, or are now in hand. The whole number of blocks required is 296; on the spot and wrought, 106; on the spot, unwrought, 15; deficient, November 28, 1816, 175. Of the plain work in freestone, forming the front of the gallery and the south side of the hall, the whole is here wrought, and ready to be set. It is evident, therefore, that it would have been imprudent and useless to take down the temporary roof which protects the committee rooms in the lower story. No time would have been gained, and a very considerable expense would have been incurred in replacing it at the close of the season. 2. North wing of the Capitol. The north wing of the Capitol was left after the fire in a much more ruinous state than the south wing. The whole of the interior of the west side having been con- structed of timber, and the old shingle roof still remaining over the greatest part of 192 Documentary History of the Capitol. the wing, an intensity of heat was produced which burnt the walls most exposed to it, and, being driven by the wind into the Senate chamber, burnt the marble columns to lime, cracked every thing which was of freestone, and, finding vent through the windows and up the private stairs, damaged the exterior of the wing very materially. Great efforts were made to destroy the court room, which was built with uncommon solidity, by collecting into it, and setting fire to, the furniture of the adjacent rooms. By this means the columns were cracked exceedingly; but it still stood, and the vault was uninjured. It was, however, very slenderly supported, and its condition dangerous. Of the Senate chamber no parts were injured but such as were of marble or freestone. The vault was entire, and required no repair whatever. The great staircase was much defaced but might have been reinstated without being taken down. In this state the north wing was found when the work on the Capitol was com- menced in 1815. The plan of that wing was determined in 1807, and laid before Congress. The original document having escaped destruction, the work was begun in conformity thereto, and some progress made in the construction of the offices of the judiciary and of the library, when a very important and extensive improvement of the apartments of the Senate was suggested by that honorable body, and ordered by the President to be carried into execution. In pursuance of this order, it was necessary to take down the vaults which had been constructed on the west side of the house, and to raise them to the level of the principal floor. This alteration was the only one which affected the work carried up in the year 1815. It was effected in the months of May and June. The ruinous state of the building further required that the dome of the centre vestibule, the col- onnade, and all the vaulting of the court room, and the dome of the great stairs, with all the walls as far as they were injured, should be taken down. The enlargement of the Senate chamber required that the great dome of that apartment and its semicir- cular wall be entirely removed, and that the arches and walls of the two committee rooms, and the lobby adjoining the chamber, should also be demolished. All this was promptly accomplished, and the new apartments carried up with all the speed which was consistent with solidity; so that all the committee rooms on the floor of the Senate are completely constructed and vaulted, and the wall of the Senate cham- ber itself has advanced to the height of ten feet from the floor. The new vault of the court room, much more extensive than the former, is also completed. All the new work is so constructed as in no part whatever to bear on the old walls, but to serve as a support to them; and the whole is so bound and con- nected together as to render the building much more strong and durable than it was before the conflagration. Having now complied with your request to “ report to you on the present state of the Capitol,” I will further remark, that in the newly discovered marble of the Potomac there is an inexhaustible resource of the most beautiful building material, in a situation easily accessible by water, from whence it may lie transported to the very foot of Capitol hill; and that for our future operations the extended ivork on the freestone querries will not probably fail to afford the supplies which have hitherto been wanting. In complying with your request to report on the work done during the present year, including the pulling down as well as building up, I have confined myself to the trans- actions of the season; but I will add, that there is still to be made a very consider- able change in the south part of the north wing, in order to complete the design suggested by the Senate. For these alterations a considerable quantity of materials is provided, and other preparations made. I am, very respectfully, B. Hexky Latrobe, Surveyor of the Capitol of the United States. The Commissioner of Pubic Buildings , United States. The Old Building. 193 Capitol, December 3, 1816. Sir: I now beg leave to comply with that part of your letter of the 25th of Novem- ber which requires an estimate of the principal materials required to complete the repairs of the Capitol , ancl a notice of the materials on hand. -x- * -x- B. Henry Latrobe, Surveyor of the ZJ. S. Capitol. To the Commissioner of Public Buildings. * RECAPITULATION. Disbursements on account of the Capitol of the United States 53, 551 13 Disbursements on account of the President’s House 34, 772 13J Disbursements on account of the Treasury Office 1, 051 94 Disbursements on account of contingent expenses 1, 203 531- Total amount $90, 578 74 Errors excepted. Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. Washington, December 12, IS 16. Notes. — Of the above disbursements, the sum of forty thousand five hundred and sixty-six dollars fifty cents was paid for materials delivered under contracts made with the former commissioners, fixing the quantity and price beyond my control; and, in general, the salaries of architects, superintendents, &c., were determined prior to my entering upon the duties of commissioner. The vouchers numbered as above have been deposited by me in the office of the Auditor of the Treasury. S. Lane. Washington, January 4, 1817. Sir: I have had the honor of receiving your letter of the 3d instant, requiring a statement exhibiting the following particulars, viz: “1. The number of hands employed during the past season, &c., and the compen- sation given them.” I beg leave to refer to the papers marked A and B, as containing the information here required; they being reports (one from each building) such as I have caused to be made every other day through the season. The number of hands, however, varies almost daily. Perhaps the reports here referred to may exhibit about the average number. [The statements A and B are not to lie found.] “2. The names and number of persons employed, either as clerks, superintend- ents, master workmen, or overseers, not actually engaged at hard labor, and the com- pensation allowed them.” To provide checks against abuses in the disbursement of public money, either on account of labor or materials furnished, and to insure the faithful execution of every branch of the work, as w ell as to embrace the professional skill and talents requisite for conducting a great national work, it was an arrangement made at the commence- ment of the public buildings here, and experience has fully established its utility, to appoint subordinate agents in each department, who, though not required to per- il. Rep. 6L6 13 194 Documentary History of the Capitol. form manual labor, have more important and more arduous duties to discharge. The following list comprises the persons of this description, viz: AT THE CAPITOL. B. Henry Latrobe, architect Shadrach Davis, clerk of the works Henry Hillman, foreman of the stone-cutters John Queen, foreman of the bricklayers® Leonard Harbaugh, foreman of the carpenters Thomas Howard, overseer -x- * It is attempted to apportion the compensation, as far as is practicable, to the services rendered. Thus, among workmen of the same class, different rates of pay are established, according to their different degrees of merit. Thus, too, the wages of the same person vary with the seasons of the year. During the winter months the bricklayers, and about three-fourths of the laborers, are discharged. The stone- cutters and carpenters working in shops, with the laborers requisite to attend them, are retained. In graduating the wages of these to the different lengths of the day, it is found necessary to pay some attention to the custom and usages at other buildings. Thus, while from the stone-cutters during the winter season fifty cents per day, or one-fifth of their pay, is deducted, from the carpenters the proportion is only about one-thirteenth, or thirteen cents per day. Of the latter none are now retained but of the best kind, selected after a long trial of their merit; and to drive away these by a greater reduction of wages would be a serious injury to the public works, and one not easily repaired. Besides, it is a fact that those persons (as well as most of the others employed on the public buildings) hat^e been retained through the summer at lower wages than were generally given for the same services by individuals, and that the carpenters were induced to stay only by an expectation of permanent employ- ment through the winter. The wages of the laborers on the winter establishment are reduced from one dollar to eighty-seven and a half cents per day. With great respect, I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. Hon. Lewis Condict, Chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings. Compensation. $2, 500 00 per annum. 4 00 per day. 3 75 do. 3 00 do. 2 50 do. 2 12£ do. Disbursements made between the 30th of April, 1816, and 1st of January, 1817, on account of the Capitoh 1st. For materials as follows, viz: * * * 140,072 13 2d. For labor as follows, viz: * * * 31,088 36i 3d. Incidental, that is, Freight, drayage, cartage, wharfage, tools, &c. &c 3, 963 91 Sundries, not chargeable under the above heads 987 76£ $76. 112 17 * * * Errors excepted. Washington, January 22, 1817. S. Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. «When the bricklayers are discharged, the compensation of their foreman stops, of course. The Old Building. 195 Washington, January 31, 1817. Sir: In answer to that part of your letter of the 29th instant which requires informa- tion as to the probable time when the Capitol may be ready for the accommodation of Congress, I have the honor of stating that, if every practicable exertion be made, the Representatives chamber may admit of their reception in the autumn of 1818. That the Senate chamber may be completed by that time admits of no doubt. Upon the other subjects embraced by your letter I shall report as soon as the inquiries which they demand will permit. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. Hon. Lewis Condict, Chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings. Washington, February 1, 1817. Sir: In reply to that part of your letter of the 29th ultimo requiring information as to the causes which have retarded the progress of the south wing of the Capitol, I beg leave to report, that, when, I first entered the office of Commissioner of Public Buildings, I found that my predecessors, actuated by a laudable desire of renovating the Capitol of the United States in the most complete manner, and “believing that the sculptured ornaments could be procured on cheaper terms in Italy, made out of the best statuary marble, than in this country, made of the freestone heretofore used,” had despatched in August, 1815, an artist to Italy, with instructions to procure the twenty-four Corinthian capitals for the Representatives chamber, and had for that purpose deposited funds to a considerable amount in Europe. These capitals were expected and directed to have been shipped at Leghorn previous to the 1st of April last; but, owing to causes not yet explained, no intelligence is received, though daily expected, of their arrival in this country. It was further stated by the architect that no freestone of the quality heretofore used, or that ought to be used, for the columns of the Representatives chamber, was now to be procured at any of the quarries from which we drew our supplies of that article, and that therefore it was necessary to resort to some other material. Quarries of native marble of a beautiful texture, and in a situation on the Potomac offering facilities of water carriage to the foot of the Capitol hill, having been partially explored, I was induced to enter into a contract for the delivery of the columns from these quarries; and, although some progress has been made in execution of this contract, yet the difficulties which have interposed on account of the novelty of the undertaking, and other circum- stances, have considerably diminished the confidence at one time entertained of com- plete success. Until the columns and their capitals were procured and in place, nothing materially advancing the completion of the south wing could be done more than we have been doing. Under these circumstances, it was thought most advis- able to direct our efforts for the present principally towards the repair of the north wing and the President’s house, which afforded ample room for the employment of our hands, and where our progress, I flatter myself, has been such as to satisfy those best acquainted with the obstacles which have been encountered. I have the honor to be, with great respect, sir, your obedient servant, Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. Hon. Lewis Condict. Washington, February 12, 1817. Sir: I now transmit the estimates, required by your letter of the 29th ultimo, ot the sum necessary to complete the repairs of the public buildings, amounting to $386,661.30. Of the $500,000 appropriated by the act of the 13th of February, 1815, there remains unexpended the sum of $114,602.55, which, deducted from the esti- mate above mentioned, leaves the sum of $272,058.75 unprovided for. Documentary History of the Capitol. 196 As it is extremely desirable to proceed in the repairs of those buildings with all the despatch which the nature of the undertaking will admit, and as, with this view, the disbursements of the current year probably ought to exceed the sum now applicable to this purpose, 1 would respectfully suggest the expediency of Congress making an additional appropriation during the present session. I have the honor to be, with great respect, sir, your obedient servant, Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. Honorable Lewis Condict, Chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings, dec. &c. * * * Estimate of the probable expense of finishing the north and south wings of the Capitol of the United States. North wing, * * * §107,941 00 South wing, * * * 126, 490 00 Sum total §234, 431 00 February 12, 1817. B. II. Latrobe, S. C. U. S. * *■ * Washington, February 15, 1817. Sir: The following circumstances have contributed materially towards increasing the expenditures in repairing the public buildings: 1st. In the spring of last year a very extensive improvement of the apartments of the Senate was suggested by that honorable body, and ordered by the President of the United States to be carried into execution. In pursuance of this order, it became necessary to take down, not only the work which had been constructed the preced- ing season, but the enlargement of the Senate chamber required that the great dome of that apartment, and its semicircular wall, should be entirely removed, and that the arches and walls of the committee rooms, and the lobby adjoining the chamber, should be demolished, and that much additional strength and solidity should be given to the whole structure. Thus did this new arrangement not only produce the loss of one season’s labor and expenditures on the north wing of the Capitol, but consumed a considerable part of another season in undoing what had already been done. 2d. The injury of the exterior walls of the President’s house was found to reach much deeper than had been apprehended. It was not until some time last summer that we desisted from taking down those walls, and not until a considerable part of them had been levelled to their foundation. If to these causes be added the unexampled rise in the price of labor and materials, it ought not, perhaps, to be a matter of surprise that the original estimates should be found deficient. With great respect, I am, sir, your obedient servant, Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. Hon. Lewis Condict, &c. The Old Building. 197 Expenditures on public buildings by the three Commissioners of 1815 , and by Commis- sioner Lane to January, 1817, showing the sums expended on each of the public build- ings, viz: Capitol, President' s house, and offices, dec. $500, 000 00 $225,000 00 160,397 45 385, 397 45 $114,602 55 Expenditures by the former commissioners, for which vouchers have been received and allowed at the Treasury : On account of the Capitol * * * * * Expenditures by the present commissioner, for which vouchers have been received up to the 1st of January, 1817, as follows: On account of the Capitol ***** $79,211 64 76,112 17 Errors excepted. Washington, February 15, 1817. Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. [House proceedings of Feb. 26, 1817: Annals of Congress, 14 — 2, p. 1033.] Mr. Condict presented a petition of Benjamin Henry Latrobe, Surveyor of the Capitol of the United States, in the City of Washington, stating the reasons of his not being able to furnish in time to the Committee on Expenditures on the Public Buildings, a detailed estimate of the moneys necessary to complete the Capitol, and praying that such steps may be taken as may enable him to place his conduct, respecting the estimate submitted and the plan of the Capitol, in its true light; which petition was ordered to lie on the table. [From the Memorial of B. Henry Latrobe, Surveyor of the Capitol, Communicated to the House Feb. 26, 1817. (14 — 2, House Rep. No. 98.)] To the honourable the House of Representatives of the United States, the memo- rial of B. Henry Latrobe, surveyor of the capitol of the United States, respectfully showeth — That on the first day of the present month your memorialist received a letter from the commissioner of the public buildings, dated the 30th of January, by which he was requested to make a detailed estimate of the expense of completing both wings of the capitol of the United States, for the information of your committee of the Public Buildings. Your memorialist immediately waited upon the commissioner, and stated to him that if the capitol, like the President’s House, had been required only to be rebuilt in the manner in which it formerly existed, he could more easily have complied with his desire, by the assistance of the drawings in his possession; but that, as the whole of the interior of both wings had been entirely changed, it would be impossible to make the drawings in detail which were indispensable to such an estimate as he expected, within the limited time; that even to determine many of these details was impracticable, as they would depend upon the state in which the walls would be found in the progress of the work. * * * Your memorialist a few days afterwards, not aware that the committee had acted on the partial information before them, and had already reported to your honour- able House, waited upon the chairman of the committee and fully explained the difficulties attending the estimate. But to his utter surprise and mortification he 198 Documentary History of the Capitol. has observed, by the printed report of the committee, that his estimate was unac- companied by any explanation, and that his conduct is severely censured, by impli- cation, in the expressions used in the report. •x- * -x- B. Henby Lateobe, Surveyor of the Capitol United States. February 22, 1817. [From the “Act making further provision for repairing the public buildings, and improving the public square,” approved Mar. 3, 1817. (Stats, at Large, v. 3, 389.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That, for the purpose of repairing the public buildings, a sum not exceeding one hundred thousand dollars be, and the same is hereby, appropriated, to be applied, by the commissioner, under the direction of the President of the United States. * * * Sec. 3. And be it further enacted, That the moneys so appropriated shall be paid out of any moneys in the treasury not otherwise appropriated. [Mss.: Letters of the Presidents of the United States, p. 181: Office of Public Buildings and Grounds, War Department.] Washington 4th April 1817. To Col. Lane, Sib, To enable you the better to execute the orders heretofore given for the com- pletion of the public buildings, with the greatest possible dispatch, I consider it proper to communicate my sentiments in a more precise form, as to the manner in which some parts of the Capitol shall be finished and of the arrangement necessary to be observed in conducting the work. It appearing by a report from Gen’l. Swift and Lt. Col. Bumford that the marble on the Potomack from which it has been proposed to obtain the columns intended for the chamber for the House of Representatives and of the Senate, is of sufficient solidity to sustain the weight to be placed on them, and likewise that it will be more adviseable to construct the dome to be erected over the House of Representatives of wood than of brick, I have on due consideration adopted their suggestions in both instances. The dome of the Senate will be erected of brick. You will therefore hasten to obtain the columns from that quarry, and to take the necessary measures on the estimate of the Architect Mr. Latrobe for procuring the wood required for the con- struction of the first mentioned dome and of brick for the other. The wood it is expected will be furnished by the dept, of the Navy, the amount of the articles to be replaced hereafter. The great object to which you will direct your exertions is the placing the Capitol in a state to accommodate Congress at the next session. This may be done with proper exertions. You must procure and have in readiness all the materials requisite for every part of the work, employ an adequate force, and manage it with ability and industry. The Architect will furnish immediately three plans of the building with details applicable to each room with. estimates, for materials, for every part, especially those connected with the accommodation of Congress next winter. The plan which may be reported is not to be changed. Mr. Latrobe has doubtless digested it long since in his own mind and will in a few days furnish it. The Old Building. 199 It is expected that the architect will divide the work to be done in each wing of the Capitol, in such manner that the greatest possible force may be employed on each part. It is in this way only that the greatest despatch may be obtained. This arrangement should be made and the articles procured without a moments delay. On a detailed statement of the number of workmen who may be employed with advantage, on each branch, or part of the work, it is not doubted that they may be procured; and in the mean time on a conjectural statement (if the estimate is not instantly furnished by the Architect) you should send for the workmen to New York & Boston. Let Mr. Latrobe employ two good draftsmen to assist him in preparing his drafts and estimates. A division of labour is equally necessary in respect to the columns. It divides itself, naturally into two parts, the getting the stone from the quarry and the shap- ing it afterwards. Mr. Leckie will take charge particularly of the first, and Mr. Hartnet of the second, and you will procure for each, as many workmen as can be advantageously employed in his branch. Mr. Leckie will deliver over the blocks to Mr. Hartnett. You will provide tools, lumber, nails, spikes and provisions, for Mr. Leckie, who will cause sheds to be erected for the workmen, for cooking and as store houses ■without delay. The provisions ought to be issued, at proper stated periods, and returns and receipts to be kept of them. You must pay the workmen every week of which rolls and receipts should be kept. You may employ a clerk at the quarry, who on your responsibility, shall take charge of the provisions and pay the workmen, keeping regular accounts thereof. You will report to me every Monday morning, the progress of the work in concise terms, in every branch of the public works. Gen’l. Swift will aid in procuring you workmen in New York & Captn. in Philadelphia. With respect to the House of the President I shall say something in another letter. * * * The plastering ought to be commenced in both buildings immedi- ately. Are the laths and other materials prepared? With respect, James Monroe. [From the first annual Message of President James Monroe, Dec. 2, 1817. (“Messages and Papers of the Presidents,” v. 2, 19.)] Although the progress of the public buildings has been as favorable as circum- stances have permitted, it is to be regretted that the Capitol is not yet in a state to receive you. There is good cause to presume that the 'two wings, the only parts as yet commenced, will be prepared for that purpose at the next session. The time seems now to have arrived when this subject may be deemed worthy the attention of Congress on a scale adequate to national purposes. The completion of the middle building will be necessary to the convenient accommodation of Congress, of the committees, and various offices belonging to it. * * * Most nations have taken an interest and a pride in the improvement and ornament of their metropolis, and none were more conspicuous in that respect than the ancient republics. The policy which dictated the establishment of a permanent residence for the National Government and the spirit in which it was commenced and has been prosecuted show that such improvement was thought worthy the attention of this nation. Its central position, bet ween the northern and southern extremes of our Union, and its approach to the west at the head of a great navigable river which interlocks with the Western waters, prove the wisdom of the councils which established it. 200 Documentary History of the Capitol. [Senate proceedings of Jan. 26, 1818: Annals of Congress, 15 — 1, p. 132.] Mr. Goldsborough submitted the following motion for consideration: Resolved, That the President of the United States be requested to cause a statement of expenditures upon the public buildings, and an account of their progress, to be annually laid before Congress at the commencement of each session. [Senate proceedings of Jan. 28, 1818: Annals of Congress, 15 — 1, p. 138.] The Senate resumed the consideration of the motion, of the 26th instant, for request- ing a statement of expenditures upon the public buildings, and an account of their progress, to be annually laid before Congress, at the commencement of each session; and agreed thereto. [■‘An Act making further provision for repairing the public buildings,” approved Jan. 27, 1818 (Stats, at Large, v. 3, 405.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That for the purpose of repairing the public buildings, a sum, not exceeding two hundred thousand dollars, be, and the same is hereby, appro- priated, to be paid out of any moneys in the treasury not otherwise appropriated, and to be applied by the commissioner, under the direction of the President of the United States. [American State Papers, Class X, Misc. v. II, 484.— No. 448. 15th Congress, 1st session. City of Wash- ington: Progress made in rebuilding the public edifices. Communicated to the Senate, February 16. 1818.] w ashington, February 13, 1818. To the Senate of the United States: In compliance with a resolution of the 28th of January last I now transmit to the Senate a statement of the expenditures upon the public buildings, and an account of their progress, for the year one thousand eight hundred and seventeen. James Monroe. Office of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, February 10, 1818. Sir: In obedience to a resolution of the Senate of the United States passed the 28th ultimo, I enclose a statement of the expenditures upon the public buildings during the year one thousand eight hundred and seventeen, marked A; also a report and estimate for the Capitol, marked B, and of the President’s house, marked C. All which is respectfully submitted. Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. President of the United States. A. Abstract of disbursements made by Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings, during the year 1817. Capitol * * * - $159,655 11 Errors excepted. Washington, February 10, 1818. Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. The Old Building. 201 B. February 5, 1818. Sir: Since the time when I entered upon the duties of surveyor of the Capitol of the United States, I have been occupied in examining into the state of the building, and in viewing the original plans and designs for the work already commenced. Great progress having been made towards rebuilding the north and south wings, it will be necessary to complete them according to the designs already adopted, and on the foundations already made. From a knowledge of the plans, and from the view of the work as far as it has advanced, I have no doubt that the public rooms of Con- gress will be very splendid, and exhibit favorable specimens of correct taste and of the progress of the arts in our country. I have been engaged in preparing drawings for the centre of the Capitol, and hope soon to be able to present several designs to the President of the United States, from which he may select the one he may most approve for computing the building. Agreeably to your desire, I have taken measures to obtain as correct an estimate as circumstances will allow of the probable expense of finishing the two wings. State- ments have been given me from those at the head of each branch of business, which have enabled me to present the following: Of the work prepared and materials on hand. A large quantity of freestone is prepared for finishing the Representatives room, and the marble stairs and back stairs of the north wing are ready to be laid as soon as the season will permit. The dome of the north wing is ready for the copper cov- ering, and the frame of that of the south wing is two-th'irds prepared. All the window frames and sashes are made, and a great part of the doors; a suffi- cient quantity of copper for the roofs is on hand, and of glass for the windows, and about 100,000 feet of boards and plank, and 30,000 feet of scantling and timber. It is estimated that about four hundred tons of freestone are wanted for the Rep- resentatives room, viz. * * * 941 stones. * * * Of marble columns, pilasters, dec. There are 18 columns and 4 pilasters in hand, of which 3 columns and 2 pilasters are completely finished; two columns in hand polishing, and others in various stages of finishing; the stonecutting work of all is done, except five pieces of columns and one pilaster, now at the quarry; four columns are not yet taken out of the block. It is estimated that all the columns for the Senate and Representatives rooms may be finished by August next. Expenses necessary to finish them $28, 000 00 Marble chimney-pieces. 20 for committee rooms, at $80 each, $1, 600 00 20 for committee rooms, at $100 each, 2, 000 00 10 for principal rooms, at $200 each, 2,000 00 2 marble door-cases at entrance of Representatives and Senate rooms, 1,000 00 16 marble pilasters in upper circular wall of Senate chamber, at $200 each, 3, 200 00 — 9, 800 00 Carving. 20 cinctures of marble to columns, at $100 each, $2, 000 00 11 bases to marble columns, at $100 each, 1, 100 00 202 Documentary History of the Capitol. 12 Corinthian capitals, at $200 each, $2, 400 00 12 Ionic capitals, at $166 each, 1, 982 00 ■ — $7, 482 00 Sculpture of allegorical figures of emblematic bas-relief, &c. It is impos- sible to estimate the cost of separate figures, but the expense of the artists now employed for one year, exclusive of materials, will be 8, 000 00 $53,282 00 RECAPITULATION. Estimate of stone work $38, 665 00 Estimate of work on north wing 41, 277 58 Estimate of work on south wing 44, 578 88 Estimate of marble columns, carving, and sculptured figures 53, 282 00 $177, 803 46 The above estimate is exclusive of the piazza, which I find by the plan is intended to be attached to the north and south ends of the building, and, being wholly of stone, will probably cost $50,000. As these piazzas may be built at any future time, I propose to omit proceeding the ensuing season, but to bestow the labor that they would require on the foundations and walls of the centre. Respectfully submitted. Charles Bulfinch, Surveyor Capitol U. S. Samuel Lane, Esq., Commissioner of the Public Buildings , U. S. * * * [American State Papers, Class X, Misc. v. II, 510.— No. 454. 15th Congress, 1st Session. City of Wash- ington: Expenditures for rebuilding the public edifices. Communicated to the House of Repre- sentatives, April 3, 1818.] Mr. Tucker, of Virginia, from the Committee on the Expenditures of the Public Buildings, reported : That, having called on the Commissioner of the Public Buildings for his accounts of expenditures, they received from him the abstract marked A, which accompanies this report. From this abstract, it will appear that, from the 30th of September, 1816, to the 1st of October, 1817, the disbursements on account of the public buildings were as follows: For the Capitol $104, 337 27 For the marble quarry 25,205 43 $129,542 70 * * * From the letter marked B, enclosed at the request of the committee, as appears by the letter C from the commissioner, it appears that the accounts of the commissioner at the Comptroller’s office have been settled up to the 30th of September, 1817, and that there was at that time an unsettled balance standing against him of $72,503 58; but, from the letter of the commissioner, marked D, it appears that “the contingent The Old Building. 203 expenses of the office, and the sums advanced upon contracts not yet completed, and for materials and labor, where no regular voucher had been received, amounted, on the 31st of December last, to the sum of $80,57613.” It is alleged, and your committee believe truly so, that the existence of the balance against the commis- sioner on the settlement at the office of the Comptroller arises from the vouchers not yet being completed for the support of certain items in the account. This may well be the case, as many of the transactions require advances to be made before complete vouchers can be given ; and not a few of the articles have been procured from for- eign countries, from whence the vouchers may not yet have been received. The incomplete vouchers were submitted to the inspection of the committee. With a view of obtaining such information as might enable your committee to fulfil the duty assigned them, and afford information to the House, the letter marked E was written to the commissioner, from whom the letter marked F was received in reply; and the papers marked G and Id have been received through the same channel. From a reference to the laws, and from these documents, the following statement in relation to the subject of appropriation results: The appropriations for the public buildings previous to the present session of Con- gress have been as follows: Amount appropriated February 13, 1815 $500, 000 00 Amount appropriated March 3, 1817 100, 000 00 600, 000 00 The disbursements, as per document F, up to the 1st of January, 1818, have amounted to 681,454 17 Making an excess of disbursement beyond the appropriation of $81, 454 17 But this has been more than provided for by the appropriation, during the present session, of a further sum of $200,000; making the sum hitherto appropriated for the rebuilding of the public edifices in this city equal to $800, 000 00 Of which, on the 1st of January last, had been expended 681, 454 17 Leaving on that day unexpended only the sum of 118,545 83 But, from the documents F, G, and H, it appears that on the 5th of February, 1818, the estimate of the sums necessary to complete the public buildings amounted to 269, 572 00 Making the further sum of $151, 026 17 which it will be necessary to appropriate for the completion of the buildings. Indeed, as experience has proved that the estimates fall far short of the actual cost, and as, in the interval between the 1st of January, 1818, and the 5th of February, when the estimates were made, a considerable sum must have been disbursed out of the sum of $118,545 83, it is probable that $200,000 more, at the least, will be wanting. Hence, the appropriations hitherto having amounted to $800,000 00 And the contemplated appropriations to 200, 000 00 The cost of rebuilding the public edifices, exclusive of the centre, must amount to at least $1, 000, 000 00 Your committee feel it a duty to call the attention of the House to two facts in con- nexion with the foregoing: 1st. That the estimated expense of rebuilding all the public edifices in the year 1815 fell short of $500,000, as appears by the report of the committee on the subject. 2d. That, from the document marked F, it appears that the original cost of the 204 Documentary History of the Capitol. whole of the public buildings amounted only to the sum of $1,214,291 94. But this did not include the finishing the large room in the President’s house and the con- templated porticoes. Whether the heavy expenses of pulling down walls, removing rubbish, and the other charges arising from the state of detruction in which the buildings were, will account for the cost of rebuilding so far exceeding the estimates, and approaching so nearly the original cost, though so large a quantity of the most expensive materials were on hand, and so much work completed, your committee do not feel competent to decide. It would have afforded much satisfaction to the committee to have been able to ascertain, with accuracy, the cause of the great excess of expenditure above the esti- mates, and of the near approximation of the cost of rebuilding to the original cost of the work. The rise in the price of materials and of labor but imperfectly accounts for it, and they are compelled to attribute it to the alterations which take place in the plans, and which occasion the pulling down of vast portions of finished work, not only to the great loss of labor, but to the great destruction and waste of mate- rials. These sources of expense, it is expected, will not again occur. Your committee have no doubt of the faithful application of the public moneys by the Commissioner of Public Buildings, of whose fidelity and zeal they have no doubt. It is difficult for them to decide, and it is probably not within their province to determine, whether the course which has been pursued has been judicious; but as the quarry has been opened at very considerable expense, from which the columns for the Capitol are procured, they beg leave to refer to the document marked I for the reasons which induced the undertaking of this work. All which is respectfully submitted. I. Washington, January 24, ISIS. Sir: In laying before you the abstract of my disbursements for the last year, it may not be improper to give some explanation of the circumstances under which those charged to the marble quarry were made. The former Commissioners of the Public Buildings had determined to substitute for the columns of the House of Representatives the variegated marble of the upper Potomac in place of the coarse material of freestone heretofore used; but, before they had completed their arrangements for this object, the task devolved on me. A contract was therefore entered into with a marble mason for the columns required, at $1,550 each, delivered in this city; and a sum of money advanced, upon security, to the contractor. But the difficulties and expenses attending an enterprise of this kind proved to be greater than had been calculated upon. In short, the money advanced and the private resources of the contractor were expended before much progress had been made at the quarry; and the contractor being unable to give such security as would authorize further advances, to the extent which might be required, it became necessary to abandon the undertaking altogether, or to adopt some other mode of carrying it into effect. After a full investigation of the state of the quarry by persons of science and skill, and a consideration of all the circumstances connected with this subject, it was thought best to prosecute the works at the quarry; and, as no contractor of responsibility could be procured, this could only be done by employing artists and hands on the public account. These inquiries, and the necessary arrangements with the owner and lessee of the quarry, were not completed until the latter end of March last. As much time had already been lost; as the repairs of the Capitol were in danger of being delayed for want of the columns; and as the season for engaging hands had passed by, great and persevering exertions were necessary to procure the requisite The Old Building. 205 number of workmen. Hence, sir, you will observe many charges of agents whom I was compelled to employ in travelling through the country, in different directions, to engage and send on hands. The quarry being situated in a country where no accommodation could be had for the workmen, imposed on me the necessity of purchasing materials and erecting temporary huts, of laying in provisions, utensils for cooking, bedding, &c., and, in some instances, clothing for servants, hired of their masters with that condition. The introduction in the repairs and embellishment of the public buildings of a new and beautiful material, inexhaustible in quantity, and conveniently situated in rela- tion to the seat of Government, was thought to be an object of some importance; but to me the establishment has been a source of perpetual anxiety and vexation, which could have been rendered supportable only by the aid of a gentleman of probity and bigh standing in the county, Mr. Solomon Davis, who, from motives of friendship to me, undertook to superintend the whole.. In his judgment, vigilance, and integrity I knew I ought to confide. This short statement, it is hoped, will suffice to explain some items of a character not usual in public accounts. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, Saml. Lane, Commissioner of the Public Buildings. Hon. Henry St. George Tucker. [15 — 1, House Com. Report No. 190.] REPORT IN PART OF THE COMMITTEE OF PUBLIC BUILDINGS. Apr. 4, 1818. — Read and committed to a committee of the whole House, on the bill making appropriations for the Public Buildings, and for furnishing the Capitol and President’s House. The committee, amongst the duties assigned to them, have believed, that to pro- vide for the accommodation of Congress at their next session, was not the least inter- esting. They made only inquiry as to the certainty of finishing the wings of the capitol in time for that accommodation, and the answer of the commissioner laid on your table, gives the unequivocal affirmance that the wings will be finished. To this, adequate appropriations are proposed. The further duty of providing for commit- tees, then presented itself. The south wing will furnish but nine committee rooms. In vain they looked to the north wing even for temporary accommodation. In the centre building will be found a sufficient supply. But they cannot be counted on for use in less than two or three years. In the interim, the house now occupied, or a temporary building, must be resorted to. The estimate of the architect, herewith presented, shows the cost of a temporary building will be $3,634, and therefore, in cost and convenience to be preferred. The committee recommend the following resolutions. Resolved, That the house now occupied by Congress, be returned, as soon after the present session, as the public convenience will permit. Resolved, That a temporary building, to furnish twelve committee rooms, be erected near the capitol. NUMBER OF ROOMS IN PROPOSED CENTRE BUILDING. Grand rotunda, ninety feet diameter. One Court room. Grand jury, or law library. Judge’s room. Library, and two reading rooms. 206 Documentary History of the Capitol. Committee rooms, on ground floor 12 Do. second floor 4 Do. third floor 4 Do. fourth floor 6 26 Omit, court room, will add— committee rooms 10 36 rooms Estimate for building a House for Committee Rooms, 100 feet by 42. Story 10 feet high, containing 12 rooms and passage, * * * $3,634.84. If lengthened sufficiently to give sixteen rooms the expense would be 4,850 dollars. Respectfully presented. Charles Bulfinch, Architect, Capitol, U. S. Samuel Lane, Esq., Commissioner, March 31, 1818. [From the “Act making appropriations for the public buildings, and for furnishing the Capitol and President’s house,” approved Apr. 20, 1S18. (Stats, at Large, v. 3, 458.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That there be appropriated, for the completion of the wings of the capitol, in addition to the sum of two hundred thousand dollars already appro- priated, the further sum of eighty thousand dollars. For procuring materials, laying the foundation, and other preparations, for the centre building of the Capitol, one hundred thousand dollars. * * * For erecting a temporary building for committee rooms near the capitol, three thousand six hundred and thirty-four dollars. For furnishing the representative chamber and committee rooms, thirty thousand dollars. For furnishing the senate chamber and committee rooms, twenty thousand dollars. * * * Which said several sums of money, hereby appropriated, shall be paid out of any money in the treasury not otherwise appropriated. Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That the sum hereby appropriated for furnishing the Representative chamber, shall be expended under the direction of the Speaker of the House of Representatives; that for the Senate under the direction of the Vice President of the United States ; and the remaining sums under the direction of the President of the United States. [American State Papers, Class X, Misc. v. II, 528 — No. 459. 15th Congress, 2d Session. City of Wash- ington: Public Buildings. Communicated to the Senate, November 27, 1818.] November 26, 1818. To the Senate of the United States: I lay before the Senate a report from the Commissioner of Public Buildings, made in compliance with a resolution of the 28th of January last, requiring a statement of the expenditures upon the public buildings, and an account of their progress, to be annually exhibited to Congress. James Monroe. The Old Building. 207 Washington, November 23, 1S18. In obedience to a resolution of the Senate of the United States, passed the 28th day January, 1818, requiring a statement of expenditures upon the public buildings, and an account of their progress, to be annually laid before Congress, I enclose the paper marked A, exhibiting the amount of my disbursements from the 1st of October, 1817, to the 1st of October, 1818; and the papers marked B and C, containing statements of the progress made in the public buildings during the current year. All of which is respectfully submitted. S. Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. The President of the United States. A. Amount of disbursements made by Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings, from the 1st of October, 1817, to the 1st of October, 1818. On account of the wings of the Capitol On account of the centre of the Capitol . . . * * Errors excepted. Washington, November 23, 1818. $204,349 87 4,071 05 * Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. B. Capitol, November 21, 181S. Sir: In your communication of the 16 th instant, you request me to report the state of the public buildings under my charge, and the progress made therein during this year. In compliance with this request, I beg leave to present the following: on the north wing. The stonemasons have built, on the outside, the entire balustrade of the east and west sides, and the attic of the north front, and the stone cupola over the dome. Inside, they have laid the marble stairs leading to the principal floor, completed the colonnade of the vestibule and part of the gallery of the Senate chamber. The roof has been covered with copper; the apartments and passages of the upper story are plastered and paved; and the doors, shutters, and other carpenter’s work will be finished in a few days. The offices and committee rooms of the principal story and lower story are in the same degree of forwardness. The court room is proceeding in a state of preparation for the use of the court in December. The ceiling of the Senate chamber is rough plastered; but a delay has been occasioned in building the marble colonnade and gallery, from a disappointment in receiving the materials from New York, which I will explain more fully hereafter. on the south wing. The columns of Potomac marble of the Representatives room have been prepared and set in their places; the stone entablature with which they are crowned, and the brick arches connecting them with the walls, are built; the stone enclosure forming the breast of the gallery is nearly complete; the ribs of the dome ceiling are raised and secured; the outer roof is now raising, and will be covered in a fortnight, and the balustrade is nearly entire. 208 Documentary History of the Capitol. ON THE CENTRE. A great body of earth and of old foundation has been removed to prepare for the new work on the west of the centre. The foundations of the basement story are laid, and the cellar walls of the rotundo are carried to the height to receive the arches which will form the ground floor. Large quantities of freestone are prepared, and the workmen are employed in fitting it for its place. The external walls of the base- ment are commenced, and these, with the partition walls, will be urged on as long as the season will permit. I think I may state with confidence that the work of every description has been executed in the most thorough and satisfactory manner. As a general expectation existed that the public rooms would be ready for use in some part of the present session of Congress, I beg leave to state some occurrences which have occasioned delay, and caused the building to appear in a more unfinished state than it would otherwise have done. Towards the close of April, when the workmen were prepared to commence build- ing the stone cupola of the north wing, such evident marks of weakness were seen in the great arch that was to support it that it became necessary to take measures to strengthen it. After considering the best means for this purpose, it was thought proper to take down the work which loaded the arch, and to build up a hollow cone of brick work, from a solid foundation, over the attic story to the opening in the centre of the roof, which might support the cupola and strengthen the arch: this was done with the utmost despatch, but occasioned a delay of one month. The effect of losing so much time in the best season of the year was to prevent the cop- pering of the roof, which could not be done while the heavy stone work and masonry were executing. The delay of the copper covering prevented the plastering and inside finishing; for it is certain that, if this delay had not happened, the whole of the plastering and wood work of this wing would be now completed. I enclose a copy of the detailed report of the state of the arch, and of the proceedings thereon, which I presented at the time to the President of the United States and to yourself, to which I now refer for those particulars. Another cause of delay has been occasioned by engaging some work from a dis- tance, of which we have been disappointed — I allude to the rich and costly colonnade and gallery of the Senate chamber. This is to be wholly of marble, and was con- tracted for in New York, to be executed there, and to be delivered here in Novem- ber, 1817 ; but such has been the disappointment that, though the greater portion of it is on hand, many pieces are now wanting, and some indispensably necessary to proceeding. Repeated letters have been written, and two special messengers sent to urge on this work, which was promised long since, and is now hourly expected. The large columns of Potomac marble were essential to forming the Representa- tives chamber and building the south wing; attention was paid to this object, when an interruption was put to this, and all other stone work, by a combination among the workmen to demand an increase of wages. This combination was so organized as to threaten, at one time, an entire suspension of the work; but was happily over- come, after a total loss of thirty days, and a partial loss of many more, owing to the derangement of work occasioned by it. These causes must account, in a degree, for the present unfinished state of the wings. I am not sanguine enough to assert that they could have been fit for use if these cir- cumstances had not occurred; but the north wing would have been finished, and the south wing much further advanced. The massiness and solidity of the work, and the great elevation to which a large portion of the materials must be conveyed, will account for the apparently slow progress. From three hundred to three hundred and fifty mechanics and laborers have been employed daily; and, in my opinion, a greater number could not have worked to advantage. Permit me to add, that, since the combination among a cer- The Old Building. 209 tain class of workmen was suppressed, the work has proceeded with spirit, and with a remarkable degree of good order and propriety of conduct. Respectfully submitted by your humble servant, Charles Bulfinch, Architect of Capitol United States. Samuel Lane, Esq., Commissioner of Public Buildings. C. Report of the state of the arch in the roof of the north wing , May 1, 1818. When I entered upon the duties of my office as architect of the Capitol, and examined the state of the building, I found that a large arch had been built above the third story of the north wing, which was intended to support the stone cupola or lantern on the centre of the dome. I was pleased with the ingenuity and bold- ness of the design by which it was intended that a great number of chimneys should be carried upon this arch, and rise in the piers of the cupola between its windows. On inquiring of the principal workmen and overseers, I was told that this arch had been constructed under the particular direction of Mr. Latrobe, and that the stones of the band or curb that formed the opening on the crown of the arch were cut by his particular orders, and put in their places before he left the superintendence of the building. 1 felt perfect confidence in Mr. Latrobe’s genius as an architect, and his acknowledged skill as an engineer, that he had well considered the hazard of the proposed construction, and had taken every precaution against danger; and I gave directions to the workmen to proceed strictly according to their orders from him. By the 23d of April the chimney flues were all brought into their position on the crown of the arch, when the master workman thought it would be proper to loosen the centres, that the arch might be proved and take its bearing before the stone cupola should be built. On loosening the centre, it was found that the crown of the arch settled with it, and that the stones round the circular opening had moved in a few minutes so far as that the opening was four inches larger in one direction than in the other; the joints appearing violently compressed in some parts, and open on the others. The workmen left it in alarm, and considered it very hazardous. The clerk of the works informed me of the circumstance, and I immediately went on the roof to view it, with the clerk, the principal of the stone department, and the master mason. I soon came to the determination that the arch could not bear the weight of the flues and stone cupola, estimated at two hundred tons more than it was already charged with; and, after inspecting the foundation, resolved to build a cone of brick from the bottom of the dome to the circular opening above, for the purpose of strengthening the arch and supporting the cupola. As I had been informed that General Swift and Colonel Bomford had been formerly commissioned by the President of the United States to examine the north wing to ascertain the state and solidity of the walls, I immediately wrote to those gentlemen to request them to inspect the arch, and consider the mode in which I proposed to secure it; they obligingly came and examined the work, and determined that it could not support any additional burden, and approved of the plan I pro- posed, of a hollow cone. The following description of the arch will exhibit some of the causes of its failure: The great arch in the roof of the north wing is forty feet in span from north to south, and thirty feet wide from east to west, and rises in a semicircle; it is intended 1o support a stone cupola twenty-two feet in diameter, with six windows in its cir- cumference, and as many piers between them, in which eighteen chimney flues are H. Rep. 646 14 210 Documentary History of the Capitol. to be carried up from the different apartments of the building. A circular opening is made in the crown of the arch fifteen feet wide, (the inner diameter of the cupola, ) to convey light to the interior, and particularly to the vestibule of the Senate chamber. One cause of the failure of this arch arises from the circumstance that the circular opening is not in the centre; but while there are ten feet of solid work on the west, there are only five feet to the east of the opening. Of the eighteen brick flues which are to be led round this circle, twelve are brought from the west, three from the south, and three from the north, but none from the east, to serve as a counterpoise or buttress of consequence. When the weight was brought on the arch, the ten- dency of the whole was to press on the easterly part, which, being the weakest, and having nothing to assist it to sustain the pressure, was forced out of form. On taking down the centring, which opened the soffit or under side of the arch to view, another cause of weakness appeared: the arch, which is two bricks thick, is ornamented with large caissons or coffers of three feet square, sunk the depth of one brick, or half its thickness; these destroy the bond and connexion of the work, as is apparent from the cracks round the stone curb in the centre, which take their directions along the caissons. Four of the blocks of freestone which formed the curb are cracked by the great pressure upon them. From these appearances, it is evident that it would be dangerous to trust the arch to bear the weight that is now upon it, and that it would be wholly incompetent to sustain the stone- lantern that was contemplated in addition. Charles Bulfinch. May 1, 1818. Pursuant to the plan proposed above, a cone of brick work has been made under the opening of the arch; the chimney flues are now brought into their right position, and carried up to the top of the dome roof. The work appears fair and substantial, and capable of sustaining the stone lantern which will now immediately be built upon it. _ The alteration has, however, occasioned a delay of one month in finishing the roof of the north wing. May 23, 1818. [Benj. Henry Latrobe, late Surveyor of the Public Buildings, under date of Dec. 8, 1818, writes an answer to the criticisms made upon his work by Charles Bulfinch, Architect of the Capitol, in his report of Nov. 21, 1818. Latrobe’s document communicated to the Senate on Jan. 5, 1819, and reprinted in American State Papers, Class X, Miscellaneous, v. II, 531-1 [15 — 2, House Report No. 77.] REPORT Of the Committee on the Public Buildings, accompanying “A Bill mak- ing appropriations for the Public Buildings, for the purchase of a Lot of Land, and furnishing a supply of Water for the use of certain Public Buildings.” January 7, 1819. — Read, and, with the bill, committed to the committee of the whole, to-morrow. The Committee on the Public Buildings report: That the Committee have examined the public buildings, and entertain the opinion that more has been effected towards their completion the past, than perhaps in any of the preceding years. They think the cause of the failure to complete the wings of the capitol, may be attributed to the magnitude of the work, and other causes assigned by the architect in his report. The appropriation made last April, for finishing the wings is found inadequate, and the additional sum of fifty-one thousand three hundred and thirty-two dollars is . Kep. 646 The Old Building. 211 required to complete the same. This large deficiency is accounted for by the architect, whose estimate, together with a letter from the commissioner is herewith presented. In order to progress with the centre building of the capitol, the committee propose to make an adequate appropriation, as they think that a competent number of work- men should be constantly employed thereon. * * * The committee have thought it their duty again to inquire, as to the time neces- sary for finishing the wings of the capitol, and the answer of the commissioner gives the assurance of their completion before the probable meeting of the next Congress. From the forward state.of the wings, the committee think the commissioner’s expec- tations will be realized. They therefore recommend the following resolution: Resolved, That the house now occupied by Congress, be returned as soon after the present session, as the public convenience will permit. Office of Commissioner of Public Buildings, December 15th, 1818. Sir: Your letter of the 7th instant, requiring a statement of the appropriation necessary to progress with the centre building of the capitol; * * * I have had the honor of receiving and beg leave to submit the following as an answer, in part: The paper marked A, exhibits the additions, made by the architect at the capitol, to his estimates of last year, of the sum necessary to complete the wings of that building, amounting to 51,332 dollars. The paper marked B, shows the sum which will be required for the centre build- ing in the course of next year. * * * I should have no hesitation in answering your inquiry, as to when the wings of the capitol will be ready for the reception of Congress, but for the disappointment of all my former expectations upon this subject. If the causes of delay stated in the report of the architect (already laid before you) had not occurred; if in short, we had real- ized our expectations, by finishing the wings just before the meeting of Congress, it is extremely doubtful if it would have been adviseable for that body to have occu- pied their rooms, in the green and damp state in which they must have been found. By embracing another season, the whole can be completed with that deliberation essential to works, where durability and elegance ought to combine, and leave time for proper ventilation, before the probable meeting of the next Congress. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, Sam’l. Lane, Commissioner Public Buildings. Hon. Joseph Bellinger, Chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings, dec. &c. dec. A. (Copy.) December 12, 1818. Samuel Lane, Esq., Sir: I enclose for your inspection a statement of certain expenses on the wings of the capitol, some of which have already been incurred, and others are contemplated for the next season, which from my then recent arrival, were unforeseen by me, and 212 Documentary History of the Capitol. therefore not included in the estimate which formed the basis of the appropriation of last year. Expenses of taking down work over the arch in the north wing, of build- ing the brick cone to support the cupola, of plastering and finishing the same 1 ^ $2, 000. 00 Cost of marble work for the galleries of the Senate chamber, contracted for in New York 15, 000. 00 Marble work for representatives room, executed in Philadelphia 1, 300.00 Estimated expense of a new double flight of circular stairs in the south wing, to lead to the representatives room; with the alterations of the vestibule necessary to make the entrance to that room more spacious and convenient 8, 000. 00 26, 300. 00 The following materials were on hand at the time of making out my former estimate, but as they were procured in Europe, and the bills had not then arrived they could not be included in the estimate, viz: 24 Corin- thian capitals, for the representatives room, and 12 ionic ditto, for Sen- ate’s chamber, from Italy 10, 750 00 Ironmongery and copper for roof, from London 14, 282 18 §51, 332 18 I submit to your consideration, whether a special appropriation for the above should not be requested, amounting to fifty-one thousand and three hundred and thirty-two dollars. Respectfully, your obedient servant, (Signed) Charles Bulfinch. B. (Copy.) The within estimate is for materials and amount of labor, that will be required for prosecuting the work on the centre of the capitol, in the year 1819. In making this estimate, it is calculated to carry up the walls and partitions to the level of the floor of the principal story, during the summer and autumn; and to have on hand a suffi- cient supply of freestone to reach to the caves of the wings, to be prepared in the winter of 1819, during which time the carpenters will be also employed in making doors, windows, &c. This estimate is exclusive of the north and south wings, and of the unexpended balance of the appropriation, made for the centre at the last Session of Congress. Respectfully submitted, (Signed) Charles Bulfinch, Architect of the Capitol, U. S. Samuel Lane, Esq. Commissioner of Public Buildings. Estimate of Materials and Labor required on the Centre of the Capitol during the year 1819. Freestone for walls, surface 20,000 ft. 2 feet thick is 2,800 tons at §12 §33, 600 Ditto, ashler for inside of lower rotunda, 428 tons at §12 5, 136 Carting the above 3,228 tons at §1 3, 228 Blue stone to build back walls, front basement wall, and angles of rotunda, 2,500 perches, at §2.25 5,625 The Old Building. 213 Bricks, for partition walls and arches, M 2,000, at $10 $20, 000 Lumber, of boards and plank for centering of arches, of joist, for windows and door frames, sashes and doors 8, 245 77, 084 WORKMANSHIP. Work on freestone, at $12 per ton $33, 600 Laying rough stone, 2,500 perches, mortar included, at $3 7, 500 Ditto, 2,000 bricks ditto at $5 10, 000 Carpenter’s work on centres, doors, windows, &c 8, 460 136, 644 * * * [“An Act making appropriations for the public buildings, for the purchase of a lot of land, and fur- nishing a supply of water for the use of certain public buildings,” approved Mar. 3, 1819. (Stats, at Large, v. 3, 516.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That there be appropriated for finishing the wings of the Capitol, in addition to the sums already appropriated, the further sum of fifty-one thousand three hundred and thirty-two dollars. For erecting the centre building of the Capitol one hundred and thirty-six thousand six hundred and forty-four dollars. * * * Which said several sums of money, hereby appropriated, shall be paid out of any money in the treasury not otherwise appropriated. Sec. 2. A nd be it further enacted, That the several sums hereby appropriated, shall be expended under the direction of the President of the United States. [16 — 1, Senate Report No. 3.] In Senate op the United States, December 20, 1819. Mr. Roberts, from the committee appointed on the 16th instant, who were directed to ascertain whether convenient apartments could be had in the North Wing of the Capitol, for the accommodation of the committees and officers of the Senate, reports: That they find the basement story, besides the supreme court room, contain six apartments, provided with fire places and lighted. One of these is occupied by the clerk of the supreme court, and four others by the marshal and the clerk of the circuit court of Washington county. This occupancy, the committee understand to be not within the original design of the edifice. The last session of the circuit court was held in the supreme court room. Another session commences within a few days, and the committee believe it would be highly inconvenient that court should sit in the Capitol while the Senate are in Session; or, indeed, that it should in future be held there. The committee believe, however, the supreme court may eligibly occupy the chamber constructed and furnished for their accommodation, and, the clerk of that court, and the marshal, may each retain an apartment for offices near the court room, which appear to be necessary appendages thereto. Four suitable committee rooms will then be left in the basement story. In the principal story, beside the Senate Chamber, there are six apartments, one of which must necessarily be occupied by the Secretary’s office, and one by the Sergeant-at-arms, leaving four for committees. The apartments in the attic story are all required for the library. Eight chambers may therefore be in a short time prepared for the reception of committees. 214 Documentary History of the Capital. The committee apprehend this number to be as few as will be found compatible with convenience and despatch in the transaction of business. There are thirteen standing committees that must frequently meet for deliberation, and select committees must often be raised. The committee believe some arrange- ment for the occupation of the rooms by committees is desirable, and they respectfully submit the following: No. 7, to be occupied by the committee on the contingent fund and select committees; No. 10, by those on the District of Columbia, and the post-office and post roads; No. 11, by that on public lands; No. 13, by those on military and naval affairs; No. 27, by the committees on foreign relations and finance; No. 30, by those on commerce and manufactures, and on the militia affairs; No. 32, by that of claims; No. 34, by those on the judiciary and on pensions. To give effect to this arrangement, the following is submitted: Resolved, That the proper officers, with as little delay as possible, cause the above enumerated eight rooms to be labelled and furnished for the purposes aforesaid. [16 — 1, House Ex. Doe. No. 15. — Message from the President of the United States, transmitting a report of the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, Dec. 28, 1819.] To the Senate mid House of Representatives of the United States: I transmit to Congress a report from the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, which, with the accompanying documents, will exhibit the present state of those buildings, and the expenditures thereon, during the year ending the 30th of Septem- ber last. James Monroe. Washington, December 24tli, 1819. Office of Commissioner of Public Buildings, Washington, December 24, 1819. The Commissioner of the Public Buildings, in the City of Washington, has the honor of submitting to the President of the United States the enclosed papers, marked A, B, C, exhibiting the progress made in, and expenditures on account of, those buildings, during the year ending the 30th day of September last. Respectfully submitted. Saml. Lane. A. [copy.] Samuel Lane, Esq. Commissioner of Public Buildings. Sir: In presenting a report of the progress of the work on the Capitol of the United States, according to annual custom, permit me to congratulate you on the completion of the public rooms, and of the necessary offices for the reception of both Houses of Congress. The work has been well executed, with great solidity, and with an atten- tion to convenience and elegance, which make the arrangements for the National Legislature equal to those of any other country, and which, I hope, will meet public approbation. The work on the Centre of the Capitol has also been carried on, during the past season, in a style conformable to the other parts of the building. The walls are raised to the height contemplated in the estimates presented at the last session of Congress; and workmen are now engaged in preparing the materials of free-stone for the continuance of the work. The expense of this part of the building has not exceeded the estimates; but a large amount of excess, above what was expected, The Old Building. 215 having occurred in finishing the wings, I think it my duty to point out some of the causes which have occasioned it; and which will serve to explain, that it has not arisen from misapplication of the public money, but from some omissions and unfore- seen expenses that could not be controled. In my estimate of 1818, I stated, from information then given me, that there was on hand sufficient copper for the roofs, and glass for both wings; it has been found necessary to purchase an additional quantity of copper, to the amount of $2, 368 17 And of glass, to the amount of 5, 378 26 The chimney pieces, chiefly from Italy, have exceeded 599 47 The marble capitals, from Italy, stated at $10,750, by the accounts adjusted since, exceed that sum 1,241 36 The marble colonnade for Senate chamber, executed in New York, stated in the printed estimates at 15,000, has exceeded that sum 6, 375 99 Freight of the same from from New York 355 28 Expense of quarrying, transporting, and finishing the columns of Potomac marble, was estimated by the superintendent of that department, in 1818, at 28,000; it has exceeded that amount 30, 145 55 Painting the outside, not contemplated in the estimates, but found necessary to be done 3, 000 Cast iron work to strengthen the arches 1, 757 94 Work on the grounds, within the Capitol enclosure 1, 500 Salaries of sculptors of figures, one year, omitted in estimate 7, 000 $59, 722 2 The above articles will account for a large portion of the excess; the balance must be attributed to the difficulty of estimating with accuracy the expense of work of so unusual a nature, and on so large a scale. Respectfully submitted, by your obedient servant, [Signed] Charles Bulfinch, Architect of Capitol of United States. Washington, December 15, 1819. -x- * * C. Amount of disbursements made by the Commissioner of Public Buildings, between the 1st of October, 1818, and 30th of September, 1819, on account of the following buildings: Wings of the Capitol United States 181, 317 68 Centre of do. 160, 925 76 -* * * Errors excepted. Washington, December 23, 1819. Saml. Lane, Com. R. B. [From the third annual Message of President James Monroe. (“Messages and Papers of the Presi- dents,’’ II, 54.)] Washington, December 7, 1819. Fellow- Citizens of the Senate and of the House of Representatives: The public buildings being advanced to a stage to afford accommodation for Con- gress, I offer you my sincere congratulations on the recommencement of your duties in the Capitol. * -* * James Monroe 216 Documentary History of the Capitol. [16-1, House Report No. 33.] REPORT of the Committee on so much of the President’s Message as relates to the Public Buildings, January 6, 1820. The Committee on so much of the President’s Message as relates to the Public Buildings, report, in part, that, from the various facts and documents laid before them, it appears that “the work of the centre building has been carried on in a style conformable to the other parts of the building. The ■walls have been raised to the height contemplated in the estimates presented at the last session of Congress, and workmen are now engaged in preparing the materials for the continuance of the work.’’ As yet, “the expense of this part of the building has not exceeded the esti- mates;” a and your committee entertain a strong hope that it will not become neces- sary to change their language, and hereafter recommend an additional appropriation to cover an “excess of expenditure;'’'’ but that the exercise of a prudent forethought, and more correct numerical calculations, by those to whom the erection of this “proud edifice” has been entrusted, will afford ample testimony that public confidence in their integrity and abilities is not misplaced. In relation to the two wings of the Capitol, the President’s House, and the two new Executive Offices, it appears that the appropriations of the two last years have not been sufficient to meet the expenditures. The appropriations in 1818 and 1819, for the completion of the wings, (exclusive of $200,000 theretofore appropriated) amounted to the sum of $131,332: this sum has been found insufficient by $75,000. The sum of $15,214 was appropriated, in 1819, for “ finishing the President’s House: ” the expenditures have exceeded this sum by $13,174 66. In 1818, the sum of $180,741 was appropriated for building two new Executive Offices: it proved insufficient for those objects by $11,015 71 cents. Your committee have examined into the causes of this great excess beyond the appropriations, and have been satisfied that the expenditures have actually been made. The letter of Mr. Bulfinch (A,) together with the letter of the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, (marked No. 1) and the several communications and documents accompanying it (marked No. 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, ) will account for a large part of the excess in finishing the wings of tlm Capitol. From these documents, it will also appear, that the particulars in which the excess accrued appear to be more in out- standing and unascertained accounts and claims than in error in the estimates upon which the appropriations were made. * * * The committee think it but justice to Mr. Bulfinch to observe, that the estimates heretofore submitted by him, (soon after his coming into office, ) in relation to com- pleting the wings of the Capitol, were necessarily founded upon the information and data furnished by others, to which their insufficiency for the intended objects may be traced, in a great measure; and that it was scarcely possible for him, at that time, to have a knowledge of outstanding and unpaid accounts and unadjusted contracts. In order to defray these various expenses, found necessary beyond the appropria- tions, it appears that the Commissioner of the Public Buildings has resorted to a transfer of appropriations, intended for other objects, which it was not immediately necessary or practicable to execute, and to a loan from one of the banks. To what extent, and under what authority, he acted, in relation as well to the transfers as the loan, will appear from the letters hereto annexed ( marked No. 7 and 8. ) The committee beg leave to report a bill, making appropriations to supply the deficiencies in the appropriations heretofore made for completing the repairs of the two wings of the Capitol and the President’s house and the erection of two new executive offices. a See Mr. Bulfinch’s letter marked A. The Old Building. 217 A. Samuel Lane, Esq. Commissioner of Public Buildings. Sir: In presenting a report of the progress of the work on the Capitol of the United States, according to annual custom, permit me to congratulate you on the completion of the public rooms, and of the necessary offices for the reception of both Houses of Congress. The work has been well executed, with great solidity, and with an attention to convenience and elegance, which make the arrangements for the National Legislature equal to those of any other country; and which, I hope, will meet public approbation. The work on the Centre of the Capitol has been carried on, during the past season, in a style conformable to the other parts of the building. The walls are raised to the height contemplated in the estimates presented at the last session of Congress; and workmen are now engaged in preparing the materials of free-stone for the con- tinuance of the work. The expense of this part of the building has not exceeded the estimates; but a large amount of excess, above what was expected, having occurred in the finishing of the wings, I think it my duty to point out some of the causes which have occasioned it, and will serve to explain that it has not arisen from misapplication of the public money, but from some omissions and unforeseen expenses, that could not be controlled. In a report made by the former architect, to the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, dated September 26, 1817, the following answers were given by him to inquiries made by the Commissioner: Quere. Is the wood-work of both wings prepared, particularly doors and sashes? Answer. All but the mahogany doors and sashes of the House of Representatives, and the inferior dressings to be supplied as required. Quere. Are all the plank, scantling, and wooden materials in general, for the com- pletion of both wings, now on hand at the Capitol? If not, what are the deficien- cies? Answer. “The roofs and domes are so complicated and difficult, that, although the utmost attention has been given heretofore, to ascertain the quantity wanted, and there- is now apparently sufficient timber on the ground, yet some extraordinary pieces, as to size and shape, may be required which may not be in our possession; and I would recommend a further supply of solid logs of large dimensions, to the amount of 500 cubic feet.” In consequence of the above statements, I represented, in my estimates of February 5, 1818, made within one month from my commencing the superintendence of the Capitol, that all the window frames and sashes were made, and great part of the doors; and I presumed, from the same report, that the quantity of timber and plank on hand was sufficient to complete the wings. But at the opening of the season for work, it was found that a great number of doors and windows were wanting, besides all the frames and sashes for the cupolas and sky-lights of both wings. It has since been found necessary to purchase lumber to supply this deficiency; and for materials for the interior work of the court room, Senate chamber, and galleries, and Representatives’ room and galleries, to the amount of $4, 841 28 The cost of windows and doors, supposed to be on hand, but found deficient, may be stated at 3, 000 00 I also stated, from information then given me, that there was on hand sufficient copper for the roofs, and of glass for both wings; we have purchased an additional quantity of copper, to the amount of. 2, 368 17 And of glass, to the amount of 5, 378 26 The marble colonnade for the Senate chamber, from New York, stated in the printed estimates at 15,000 dollars, has exceeded that sum 6, 375 99 218 Documentary History of the Cajpltol. Freight- of the same from New York $355 28 The account of marble capitals, from Italy, stated at 10,750 dollars, by the account adjusted since, exceeds 1, 241 36 The chimney pieces, chiefly from Italy, have exceeded 599 47 Expense of quarrying, transporting, and finishing the columns of Potomac marble, was estimated by the superintendent of that, branch, in 1818, at 28,000 dollars: it has exceeded that sum 30,145 55 Painting the outside walls, not contemplated in the estimates, but found necessary to be done 3, 000 00 Cast iron work, to strengthen the arches inside 1, 757 94 Work on the grounds, within the Capitol inclosure 1, 500 00 Salaries of sculptors of figures, one year, omitted in estimates of 1819, because stated as an annual charge in 1818 7, 000 00 67,563 30 The above articles will account for a large portion of the excess: the balance must be attributed to the difficulty of estimating, with accuracy, the expense of work of so unusual a nature and on so large a scale. Respectfully submitted, by your humble servant, Charles Bulfinch, Architect of Capitol of U. S. Washington, Dec. 20, 1819. Additional estimate for the wings, December, 1818. Expenses of taking down work over the circle in North wing; of build- ing brick cone to support the cupola and finishing the same $2, 000 Cost of marble work for gallery of Senate Chamber, executed in New York 15, 000 Marble work for Representatives’ door, executed in Philadelphia 1,300 Estimated expense of improvements in vestibule of South Wing 8, 000 26, 300 The following materials were on hand at the time of making the former estimate, but as they were procured in Europe, and the bills had not then arrived, they could not be included in the estimate, viz: 24 Corinthian capitals for Representatives room, and 12 Ionic do. for Senate Chamber from Italy 10,750 Ironmongery and copper for roof, from London 14, 282 18 $51,332 18 Estimate of materials and labour to be expended on the centre of the Capitol, for 1819. Freestone for walls, surface 20,000 feet, two feet thick, is 2,800 tons, at 12 dollars $33,600 Freestone ashlar for lower rotunda, 428 tons 5, 136 Carting the above, 3,228 tons, at 1 dollar 3, 228 Blue stone for backing walls and angles of rotunda, 2,500 perch, at $2.25. . . 5, 625 Bricks for partition walls and arches, 2,000,000 at $10 20, 000 Lumber, of boards and plank, for centering of arches of joist, for window and door frames, sashes, &c 8, 245 The Old Building. 219 WORKMANSHIP. Work on freestone, at 12 dollars per ton $33, 600 Laying rough stone, 2,500 perch, mortar included, at $3 7, 500 Laying 2,000,000 bricks, do. do. at $5 10,000 Carpenters’ work on centres, doors, &c 8, 460 $136, 000 * * * No. 2. [Copy.] January 18, 1818. Sir: In presenting to you the abstract of disbursements made be me during the last year, it may not be improper to give some explanation of the circumstances under which those charged to the marble quarry were made. The former commissioners of the public . buildings had determined to substitute, for the columns of the House of Representatives, the variegated marble of the Poto- mac, in place of the coarse material of freestone, heretofore used. But before they had proceeded far in their arrangements for this object, the task devolved upon me. A contract was therefore entered into with a marble mason, for the columns required, at $1,550, each, delivered in this city; and a sum of money advanced, upon security, to the contractor. But the difficulties and expenses attending an enterprize of this kind, proved to be greater than had been calculated upon. In short, the money advanced was expended, before much progress had been made at the quarry; and the contractor being unable to give such security as would authorize further advances to the extent which might be required, it became necessary to abandon the under- taking altogether, or to adopt some other mode of carrying it into effect. After a full investigation of the state of the quarry, by persons of science and skill, and a consideration of all the circumstances connected with this subject, it was thought best to prosecute the work at the quarry (no other contractor offering) by employing artists and hands on public account. These inquiries, and the necessary arrangements with the contractor, (who had obtained a lease of the quarry) were not completed until about the middle of March last (1817.) As much time had already been lost, as the completion of the repairs of the Capitol was likely to be delayed for want of the columns, and as the season for engaging hands had passed by, great and persevering exertions were necessary to procure the requisite number of workmen: Hence, you will observe many charges of agents, whom I was compelled to employ in travelling through the country in different directions, to engage and send on hands. The quarry being situated in a country where no accommodation could be had for the workmen, imposed on me the necessity of purchasing materials, and erect- ing temporary huts , of laying in provisions, utensils for cooking, bedding, &c. &c. and, in some instances, servants were hired of their masters, with a condition, (usual in the country) of finding them in clothing. To introduce, in the repair and embellishment of the public buildings, a new and beautiful material, inexhaustible in quantity, and conveniently situated in rela- tion to the seat of government, was thought to be an object of some importance. But the establishment has been, to me, a source of perpetual anxiety and vexation; which could have only been rendered supportable by the aid of a gentleman of property and high standing in the county, Mr. Solomon Davis, who, from motives of friendship to me, undertook to superintend the whole. In his judgment, vigi- lance, and integrity, I knew I ought to confide. 220 Documentary History of the Capitol. This short statement, it is hoped, will be sufficient to explain and justify some items, of a character not usual in public accounts. I have the honor to be, &c. &c. [Signed] Samuel Lane, Commissioner Public Buildings. lion. Henry St. George Tucker, Chairman of the Committee on the Public Buildings. No. 3. December 20, 1819. Dear Sir: I enclose the copy of a letter which I had the honor of addressing to your predecessor, explanatory of my accounts at the marble quarry; and I beg to know when I may wait on you with these accounts. My agency in this affair was confined, pretty much, to unremitting exertions to keep the expenditure within the smallest limits possible. Upon finding the con- tractor could not comply, I laid the business before the President. He directed gen- eral Swift, then at the head of the corps of engineers, and colonel Bomford, of the ordnance department, in company with Mr. Latrobe, architect at the Capitol, to visit the quarry, and report to him what ought to be done. So great interest did the President take in having a correct decision, that he accompanied the gentlemen above named on their survey in person. The result of all which was, an unanimous opinion that I ought to go on with the work. All appearances, calculations, and estimates, turned out to be illusive. After the most flattering prospects, we had frequently to encounter unexpected disappoint- ments. A large block, quarried with great expense of time and labor, and promis- ing to furnish the whole residue of the columns, would often turn out to be full of dry veins, and in working would fall to pieces; when another part of the quarry would be tried, perhaps, with no better success. So we went on, until, instead of $1550, the highest estimate for the cost of a column, they actually amounted to something like $5000 each. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Saml. Lane. Honorable Thomas W. Cobb. No. 4. [A COPY.] W ashington, 17th March, 1817. Gentlemen: In examining the Capitol in its present state of repair, and the plan for its completion, I find that it is proposed to embellish the Chamber of the House of Representatives with twenty-two columns of marble, and to erect over the chamber an arch of brick to support the roof, which arch will rest on the columns; imposing on them a weight of at least 600 tons. The foundation on which the columns rest is of stone, and, as it is represented, is supported likewise by arches. It is important to me to know whether these columns, regarding the foundation on which they rest, and the quality of the marble of which they are composed, will support such an immense weight. Equally important is it to ascertain whether an arch of brick may be placed over the Representatives’ Chamber to bear its own weight, and the weight to be imposed on it, without incurring any the least danger of its falling in, either by breaking or sinking the columns, or forcing the walls, and destroying that assembly, The Old Building. 221 or whoever may be there. I have to request that you will investigate and report to me your opinions on these points, giving notice to the superintendent of the public buildings and to the architect, that they may be present, and afford to you every explanation and facility necessary for the purpose. I wish you to extend your investigation, in like manner, to the Senate Chamber, over which, I understand, a similar arch is to be raised, and which is likewise to be supported by columns. It is highly important, as well for the early accommodation of Congress, as the preservation of a just economy, that this building should be finished with the great- est possible expedition. To hasten it, 1 have requested a detailed plan of the build- ing in all its parts, a copy of which is to be furnished to me, another to the super- intendent, and a third retained by the architect. I have instructed the architect to divide each wing of the building into as many parts as its structure will admit of, and to employ as many workmen on each, as may be engaged in it with advantage. As the service which I have requested of you to perform will give you an opportunity of inspecting the whole building, I shall be glad that you would avail yourself of it, to examine into its present state, and the plan of conducting the work, and to sug- gest to me any ideas which may occur to you, tending either to promote despatch, greater solidity and strength in the building, or otherwise to advance the public interest in regard to it. [Signed] Jas. Monroe. Gen. Swift, Col. Bomford. No. 5. Washington, 19tli March, 1817. Sir: We have the honor to report to you the result of our observations made upon the Capitol, and our opinions relative to the construction of parts of that edifice, con- formably to your letter of instructions, dated 17th instant. After a general view of the ground plans and sections of the Capitol, we proceeded, in company with Mr. Latrobe and Col. Lane, to examine that part of the founda- tions of the Capitol which are above ground, to wit: the arches and piers in the cellar, and those in the next story; it is our opinion that those arches and piers are faithfully constructed, and that they are of sufficient strength to support the super- structure of walls, columns, and domes of brick covered with copper, contemplated by the architect, Mr. Latrobe. The marble columns intended to embellish and support the domes of the Repre- sentative and Senate chambers, will, in our opinion, have sufficient base and solidity to sustain the brick domes; it would, however, be necessary that the bricks for the domes tee moulded for that especial purpose, well burned, and laid with great care; the addition suggested by the architect, of a triple band of iron to surround and strengthen the base of the domes, would lie important. It is proper to remark, that, although a dome of masonry may be considered more durable than one of wood, and maybe safely erected, yet it is our opinion that, where time and expense are primary objects, a dome of well seasoned timber, covered with copper, may be erected with more expedition, and at a less expense, than one of brick, and would also quiet apprehensions which are frequently entertained in vaulted apartments. The directions which have been given relative to plans of the building, division of labor, and employment of many workmen, will, if strictly obeyed, complete the Capitol in a reasonable time. — We would advise that materials, for at least three months in advance, be constantly kept on hand; that means be taken to ascertain what time would be required to procure and complete the requisite columns and entablatures from the quarry, and if any serious delay be likely to attend the pro- 222 Documentary History of the Capitol. curing of those columns, &c. upon the present plan, that a contract be made with some northern sculptors and stone-cutters, to furnish the columns and entablatures in the shortest time. We have the honor to be, most respectfully, your obedient humble servants. J. G. Swift, Brig. Gen. G. Bomfoed, Lt. Col. of Ord. To his excellency James Monroe, President of the U. S. P. S. It is understood that the south wing of the Capitol, erected with so much taste by Mr. Latrobe, required but three years for its completion; it will not, there- fore, appear improbable, that, by a zealous exertion, the Representative and Senate chambers may be sufficiently finished in the current year for the accommodation of Congress. Should the effort fail in success, it will, at all events, insure an early com- pletion of the Capitol. J. G. Swift, G. Bomfoed. No. 6. Washington, 31st March, 1817. Sir: In addition to the communication which we have had the honor to make to you respecting the capitol, we recommend, that, in order to secure a prompt execu- tion of your design to complete the capitol, it be made the express duty of the archi- tect to furnish to the commissioner, in the shortest practicable time, the detailed plans necessary for the capitol, commencing with those apartments that can be advanced with the greatest speed, to wit: the Representatives’ Hall, the Senate Chamber, and the communications to those apartments; the architect shall also furnish estimates of the number of workmen, and kind and quantity of materials: the plans, after hav- ing your sanction, shall not be varied. Let it be the express duty of the commis- sioner to cause workmen and materials to be procured, without delay, agreeably to the estimates. Let it be the further duty of the architect to see that the workmen carry on the work regularly, and agreeably to the plan sanctioned as aforesaid. Let one hundred good men and a leader be procured from New-York or Boston, and sent to Washington, to work upon the capitol. Let the architect employ two good draughtsmen to prepare triplicates of all plans and such other drawing as may be required. Respecting the quarry. The examination of the quarry made in your presence, has convinced us, that all the columns which may be required for the capitol, can be procured in season from that quarry.® To expedite the work at the quarry, we recommend, that, in addition to the men that may be procured in and about Wash- ington, Baltimore, Georgetown, and the vicinity of the quarry, let there be hired and sent on from Philadelphia, thirty or forty quarry men, and twenty stone cutters — from New-York the same numbers. Captain Reese can attend to the pro- curing of the men at Philadelphia — Gen. Swift, at New-York. Let Mr. Lukie be employed to take charge of the quarry; let him divide his men into convenient working squads, and let it he his duty to deliver blocks of marble to Mr. Hartnet, as fast as they can be quarried. Let Mr. Hartnet have as many stone cutters as he can employ. The commissioner will provide tools, and also lumber, nails, and spikes, to Mr. Lukie, who will cause sheds, for cutters’ cooking and lodging, to be erected at the quarry without delay. a The white marble entablatures can be procured from New-York, and forwarded to Washington in season to complete the colonnades. The Old Building. 223 The commissioner shall furnish provisions at the quarry, which shall be issued every days. Regular returns of, and receipts for, issues shall be kept. The com- missioner shall pay the wages of workmen, &c. at the quarry, every week; rolls and receipts being kept as usual in such cases. The commissioner may employ a clerk at the quarry, who, under the commission- er’s responsibility, shall pa) 7 the workmen, issue provisions, keep the accounts and public property. The commissioner shall report to the President of the United States, every Monday morning, the work done at the quarry the preceding week. Upon further reflection, since we had the honor to address you last, relative to the domes at the capitol, we are convinced that it will be best to construct both domes, to wit: that over the Representatives’ Hall and that over the Senate Chamber, of wood; and that both wings of the capitol have wooden roofs, connected with the domes — the whole to be covered with copper. The base of both domes to be encircled with three iron bands. A zealous exertion of the commissioner and architect to execute the work upon the capitol which you contemplate, > will, in our opinions, prepare both the Senate Chamber and Hall of Representatives, to receive the Congress at its next session. The reasons which have induced us to prefer wooden domes, are, the saving of time, and the comparison of weight being in the ratio of fifty tons wood, Ac. to four hundred tons masonry, and the conviction that wooden domes, being well con- structed and carefully covered with copper, will surely last half a century. We have the honor to be, your most respectful humble servants, J. G. Swift, B. G. G. Bojiford, Lieut. Col. of Ordnance. To his Excellency James Monroe. No. 7. House of Representatives, 4th January, 1820. Sir: In the course of your explanations, before the committee, of the causes of the excess in the expenditures beyond the appropriations made for finishing the wings of the Capitol, the President’s House, and the erection of two new Executive Offices, you mentioned that, in order to effect these objects, and particularly the first, you had been compelled to have transferred to them appropriations intended for other purposes, and to negociate a loan of money with one of the banks: the committee have directed me to inquire, whether, in the transfer of these appropriations, and in obtaining the loan, you acted by the order, or consent, of the President of the United States. You will also be pleased to state what appropriations, or parts thereof, were thus transferred, and what was the amount of the loan contracted by you. I am, Sir, your obedient servant, Thomas W. Cobb. Colonel Samuel Lane, Commissioner Public Buildings. No. 8. Washington, January 5, 1819. Sir: Your letter of the 4th inst. requiring me to state, whether, in obtaining a loan for carrying on the repairs of the Capitol, and in applying to that object other appropriations, I acted by the order and consent of the President of the United States; and, also, a statement of the appropriations thus transferred, and the amount of the loan contracted by me, I have had the honor of receiving. 224 Documentary History of the Capitol. Early in September last it was ascertained that the appropriations for repairing the Wings of the Capitol would fall considerably short of accomplishing that object, and that other funds must be resorted to, or the reasonable expectations of Congress again disappointed. This discovery was laid before the President of the United States, and I received his directions to press forward the work as fast as was prac- ticable; to appropriate, to this object, such other funds as were not likely to be immediately called for, and to accept a proposition of the United States’ Branch Bank, at this place, of permitting me to overdraw, for the payment of current bills, to the amount of $50,000; the account to be settled at the end of each week, and the sum found due, to go upon interest, until reimbursed. The appropriations thus temporarily diverted from their specified objects, are as follows: For slating the old executive offices, (it having been found impracticable to procure slate, of the proper quality, before next season,) the sum of. $10,000 00 For procuring fire engines, &c., though contracted for, not likely to be delivered before the meeting of Congress, the sum of 4, 500 00 For purchasing a lot of ground, and supplying the public offices and President’s house with water, which, owing to the exorbitant demands of the proprietors of the ground, could not be immediately carried into effect, the sum of 9, 125 00 Of the appropriation for carrying on the centre building of the Capitol, not called for before winter, the sum of 25, 565 37 Advanced by the bank, as above 50, 000 00 99, 190 37 I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, Samuel Lane, Commissioner Public Buildings. Honorable Thomas W. Cobb, Chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings, &c. No. 9. 1818, April 1st, specific appropriations commence. Disbursements on account of the wings of the Capitol — For the 2d quarter $46, 820 46 3d do 54, 731 60 4th do 46, 022 52 1819. For the 1st do : 36,793 04 2d do , 29, 720 09 3d do 68, 782 03 282,869 74 Amount of bills entered in the 4th quarter 33, 339 63 316, 209 37 Bills outstanding. Marble work from NewA T ork 19,347 Pay roll for December, 1819 3,320 59 Several small bills, amount estimated at 606 45 23, 274 04 339, 483 41 The Old Building. 225 Balance o£ appropriation. Appropriation of 1818 April 1st, 1818 Do. 1819 $133, 125 41 80, 000 00 51,332 00 $264,457 41 Deficiency 75,026 00 [House proceedings of Jail. 24, 1S20 : Annals of Congress, 16 — 1, p. 936.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The engrossed bill making appropriations to supply the deficiency in the appropri- ations heretofore made for the completion of the repairs of the wings of the Capitol, for finishing the President’s House,' and the erection of two new Executive offices, was read a third time, and the question stated on its passage. A debate of about an hour ensued on this bill — not so much on the question whether it ought or ought not to pass, as on the circumstances which called for it. Mr. Johnson, of Virginia, and Mr. Randolph argued against the practice of trans- ferring and of exceeding appropriations for specific objects, and against the responsi- bility assumed by the President in this case, of borrowing money for the purpose of completing the public buildings. These gentlemen protested warmly against the unconstitutionality of such unauthorized exercises of power by the Executive, their dangerous tendency, the culpability of permitting them, &c. ; that no Executive officer had the power to pledge Congress to make good sums which he should raise and expend, without the authority of law, &c. ■ Messrs. Cobb, Livermore, Taylor, Foot, Clagett, and Rhea, although not at all differing from the former gentlemen in the correctness of the doctrines they advanced, supported this appropriation, and justified the steps on the part of the Executive which had called for it; arguing that Congress had required of the Executive expressly to have these buildings repaired and rebuilt; that they had felt and expressed dissatisfaction because the Capitol Avas not in readiness at the last session for the reception of Congress; that the President, consulting the convenience and accommodation of the Legislature, and finding the appropriations not sufficient for the object, had diverted the funds to it which had been appropriated to other objects in the city, and had directed the Commissioner of the Public Buildings to accept an advance of money which had been tendered by one of the city banks, to make up the remaining deficiency, relying on Congress to make it good; that what he had done was in pursuance of what he deemed his duty in providing for the accommoda- tion of Congress; and that, however just the objections in the abstract, and to ordinary cases, the President was in this justifiable, &c. The question was then taken on the passage of the bill, and carried, without a count, and the bill was sent to the Senate for concurrence. ADDITIONAL REPORT of the Committee on the Public Buildings. February 16, 1820. — Printed by order of the House of Representatives. The Committee on the Public Buildings, in reporting the accompanying Bill, mak- ing appropriations for continuing the work on the centre building of the Capitol, and other purposes, would take occasion to observe: That, since the conflagration of the public buildings, in 1814, appropriations have [16 — 1, House Report No. 69.] II. liep. 016 15 226 Documentary History of the Capitol. been made by Congress for the following purposes: 1. Rebuilding and repairing the north and south wings of the Capitol. * * * 10. A temporary building for com- mittee rooms. 11. Enclosing and improving the Capitol square. 12. Purchasing fire-engines, and building houses for the same. 13. The erection of the centre build- ing of the Capitol. I. Rebuilding and repairing the north and south wings of the Capitol. On examina- tion, the committee find that the sum of $679,159 14 has been expended upon this object, between the 13th of February, 1815, and the 1st of January, 1820, and for which sum the accounts are in a course of settlement at the proper office. There are other expenditures for which the accounts have not been settled; but, it is believed, the appropriation made at this session, for supplying the deficiency informer appro- priations, will be amply sufficient to cover them. A further appropriation is called for, towards the completion of the wings, of $1,500, as contained in the estimates of Mr. Bulfinch, the architect, for “painting the inside of both wings,” and which he thinks indispensable. The exjienses of such additions and alterations as the two branches of Congress may order, for their greater comfort and accommodation, must be provided for as the cases arise. The expenses of this nature, already incurred and directed during the present session, amount, as appears by the paper marked A, to the sum of $1,367, which, with the $1,500 mentioned above, is all that will be required, at this time, for the wings. * * * 10. Erecting a temporary building for Committee Rooms, for which the sum appropri- ated was $3,634, by the act of the 20th of April, 1818. The building is completed and now in use, and it is understood the appropriation will be amply sufficient, and, perhaps, more than sufficient. II. Enclosing and improving the Capitol Square, for which, by the acts of April 29th, 1816, and March 3d, 1817, the aggregate sum of $68,658 was appropriated. The expenditures, according to the accounts shewn by the Commissioner, have amounted to the sum of $71,602 57, and a further sum of $1,147 25 remains due and unpaid. The committee refer to Col. Lane’s letter, marked B, as well to account for this excess, as for the manner in which a part of it has been supplied. The wall and iron rail- ing have been completed. The gates (being seven in number) have yet to be made and fixed. The committee are of opinion that the work is well done, of lasting materials, and upon unobjectionable terms. It is scarcely necessary that the gates should be undertaken this year. The work upon the grounds has been commenced; but, until the materials, workshops, &c., now spread over them, and wanted for the centre building, can be removed, it is inexpedient to appropriate money for its com- pletion. The architect, in his estimate, herewith submitted, has called for the sum of $1,500 for graduating the hill in some parts, and for raising the earth in others, as well for greater convenience in carrying on the work of the centre building, as event- ually improving the appearance of the grounds on the west side of the capitol. If, indeed, this is necessary, in the progress of the centre building, (and the committee have been assured that it is,) there can be no objection to the appropriation. 12. Purchasing Fire Engines, and building houses for them. The sum appropriated for this purpose, by the act of the 3d of March, 1819, was $4,500, the appropriation was diverted to the completion of the wings of the capitol, but has been replaced by the appropriation already made during this session. The engines have been pro- cured, and the sum is believed to be sufficient to answer the purposes intended. 13. The erection of the Centre Building of the Capitol. A committee of this House, in the session of 1817-18, by their report, recommended the commencement of this work; and, by an act passed on the 20th of April, 1818, the sum of $100,000 was appropriated for this purpose. The act of March 3d, 1819, appropriated a further sum of $136,644, for the same object. With these sums the walls of the building have been raised as high as was contemplated; and the expenditures have conformed, as The Old Building. 227 nearly as could be, to the estimates. Upon the requisition of a former committee of this House, the plan has been changed from the design of the late architect, Mr. Latrobe, so as to afford more convenience, and a greater number of necessary rooms. This alteration has been approved by the President, and it is believed that it will not affect either the beauty of the building, or increase the cost of erection, inasmuch as its external appearance is substantially preserved, and its size diminished. The committee have examined the materials and style of workmanship of what has been done, and have been well satisfied with both. Having an eye to the necessity of curtailing the expenditures of government at the present period as much as possible, their first inquiry was as to the expediency of suspending this work until a more flattering account of the state of the Treasury should be presented. They do not hesitate in saying, that prudence and economy both require that the building should be urged as fast as a proper regard for its faithful execution will permit, until the walls shall be raised to the intended height, and the whole covered, so as to be effectually protected from injury by. the action of the weather; leaving to future deliberations of Congress to judge of the propriety of completing its interior. To this object the committee directed the commissioner and architect to prepare and conform their estimates for the ensuing year. The estimate is hereto annexed, marked C, amounting to $114,769, inclusive of the two sums required, as herein before stated, for painting the inside of the wings, and the improvement of the grounds west of the Capitol. Before closing their report, the committee think it proper to observe, that, in so far as the public buildings have advanced, the unexpected expenses of their repairs, since their conflagration, inclusive, the appropriations heretofore made, and to be made until they shall be completed, can only be considered, for the most part, as advances made at the Treasury, which will be reimbursed by the sales of the public property in the City of Washington, which has cost the government but little. At the time of the cession of this territory, as the seat of the general government, this property was considered as a source of revenue which would be amply sufficient for the erection of all the public buildings; and, if the document, herewith presented, marked D, is not unreasonable, it will yet be sufficient to complete such as are undertaken. But for their destruction, there is no doubt of the correctness of the calculation, made many years since, of the sufficiency of the fund for its object. * * * Charles Bulfinch, Architect of Capitol U. S. February 9th, 1820. B. Office of Commissioner of Public Buildings, Washington, February 4, 1820. Sir: In carrying into effect the act of April 29th, 1816, for enclosing and improving the capitol square, after determining the plan of the work, it was thought most advisable to offer the execution of it to the competition of the public. Notices inviting separate proposals for each part of the work were accordingly issued, and the proposals of Griffith Coornbe being accepted, a contract was entered into with him, and the work immediately commenced. The act above mentioned authorized the enclosure of that part of the square lying east of the capitol only; but, at their next session, Congress directed the semi-circular area west of the capitol to be included. By this arrangement, the line of enclosure intended to pass on the east front of the capitol, and embraced by Mr. Coombe’s contract, was rendered unnecessary, and a modification of the contract followed. It was finally agreed, between Mr. Coornbe and myself, that, his contract should be extended to embrace the semi-circular area, 228 Documentary History of the Capitol. in lieu of the straight line referred to, with such additional allowance for circular work, as should he awarded by referees, to he mutually chosen after the work was completed. Colonel George Bomford and Mr. Robert Leckie were chosen for this purpose. From the nature of the agreement, the amount payable to Mr. Coombe could not be ascertained until the work was done. It happened to exceed the sum I had calculated upon. The payments already made amount to $71,602 57 and there remains due to Mr. Coombe the further sum of $1,147 25. After exhausting the appropriation, I resorted, for the payment of some pressing claims, to the centre fund. In this way the appropriation has been unintentionally exceeded by the sum of $4,091 82. I need not add that this sum is greatly wanted. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, Samuel Lane, Commissioner Public Buildings. Honorable Thomas W. Cobb, Chairman of the Committee of Public Buildings. C. Samuel Lane, Esq. Commissioner of Public Buildings. Sir: Agreeably to your desire, I enclose to you an estimate of the amount that will be wanted for the further progress of the work on the eapitol of the United States, for the year 1820, as follows: For preparing and setting stone work now on hand for the east wall and walls of western projection, and colonnade of lower rotunda $15, 600 00 Six hundred tons of free stone for upper rotunda, at $10 6, 000 00 Working and setting the same 5,400 00 Fifteen hundred perch blue stone for backing the walls, labor and mortar included, at $5 7,500 00 Two million bricks, labor and mortar included at $13 26, 000 00 Timber and boards for roof of west projection, for centreing of arches for doors and windows, scaffold poles, erecting the same, and labor 3, 600 00 Carpenter’s work, making centres, frame, roof, &c 15,585 00 Laborers attached to carpenters 1, 878 00 Nails and spikes 1, 500 00 Two iron bands bedded in the stone, to surround the walls, 50001bs each, is 10,0001bs. at 10 cts 1, 000 00 Carving capitals to jiilasters and trusses to windows 10, 000 00 15890 feet of copper for the roof, 16 ounces to the foot, at 40 cents 6, 356 00 lOOOlbs. block tin for do. at 35 cents 350 00 Painting the inside of both Avings 1, 500 00 Work on regulating grounds, west side 1, 500 00 1000 tons of free stone, to be procured for use in 1821, and worked in the winter 10, 000 00 Carting the same 1,000 00 Your obedient servant, 114, 769 00 Charles Bulfinch, Architect of Capitol U. S. January 18, 1820. The Old Building. 229 d. Expenditures on the wings of the Capitol to the destruction of the same, Aug. 1814 §788, 071 08 * * * Repairs on wings of Capitol to January, 1820 079, 159 14 * * * Statement of Resources for erecting Public Buildings in the city of Washington. Donation from the state of Virginia in 1791, towards pub- lic buildings §120, 000 00 Donation from state of Maryland 72, 000 00 Amount of sales of public lots to January 1, 1820 706, 811 88 898,811 88 Valuation of public property, viz: — 5,155 building lots for sale, at §180, the average price of former sales 927,900 00 542 acres of ground reserved for use of United States, at same rate 740,000 00 Land and free stone quarries, wharves and water lots 48, 000 00 1, 715, 900 00 2,614,711 88 From the foregoing statement, it appears that the donations and actual sales, together with the public lands, at a very low estimation, will more than balance the amount of expenditure at the present time;— But if we add to the amount expended of 2, 415, 602 27 The probable expence of the centre of the Capitol, and completing the square 800, 000 00 The amount will be 3, 215, 602 27 And if to amount of resources of 2, 614, 711 88 Is added on the value of the land to make double the present low estimate 1, 668, 800 00 This amount will be §4, 283, 511 88 It seems but reasonable to anticipate the above increase in value of this property, from the natural growth of the city, under the fostering care of the government. If this expectation should be realized, it will appear that the public buildings have been erected from the proceeds of property created by locating the seat of govern- ment in this place, and that a fund will remain for further improvements. Expenditures on the Public Buildings in Washington City, from the commencement thereof, to the 24th day of August, 1814- * * * Proceeds and estimates of public property in the City of Washington, viz. * * * Samuel Lane, Commissioner Public Buildings. * * 230 Documentary ID story of the Capitol. [From the “Act making appropriations to supply the deficiency in the appropriations heretofore made for the completion of the repairs of the north and south wings of the Capitol, for finishing the President’s house, and the erection of two new executive offices,” approved Feb. 10, 1820. (Stats, at Large, v. 3, 541.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That for the purpose of supplying the deficiency in the appro- priations heretofore made for completing the repairs of the north and south wings of the Capitol, for finishing the President’s house, and the erection of two new execu- tive offices, the following sums be, and the same are hereby, respectively, appropriated, that is to say: For completing the repairs of the north and south wings of the Capitol, the sum of seventy-five thousand dollars. [American State Papers, Class X, Misc. XI, 587. No. 488. 16th Congress, 1st session. City of Wash- ington: Public Buildings. Communicated to the House of Representatives, March 21, 1820.] Mr. Meigs, from the Committee on the Expenditures upon the Public Buildings, reported : That they have, in pursuance of their duty generally, and in obedience to the reso- lution of the House of Representatives requiring the committee to ascertain whether the expenses upon the public buildings cannot be lessened without arresting their progress, made such inquiries as seemed to the committee necessary to obtain the requisite information; that the paper annexed (marked A) containing an account of the expenditures from the 13th of February, 1815, to the 1st of January, 1820, was, at the request of the committee, rendered to them by Samuel Lane, the Commis- sioner of Public Buildings. This statement exhibits an expenditure of 81,491,363 24, of which nearly one million of dollars was expended on repairs of the damage done by the enemy in 1814. The paper annexed, ( marked B, ) also rendered by request from the commissioner, exhibits a view of the total expenditures upon the public build- ings in the city of Washington, from the commencement to the 1st of January, 1820, and also a view of the value and proceeds of the public lands in the District of Columbia. The latter statement is exhibited in order that the House of Representa- tives may know the just relation of the national expenditures upon edifices in the District to the national acquisitions in the same. According to this view, it aq>pears that the valuation of the public lands and actual amount of sales, added to donations from the States of Virginia and Maryland, exceed the national expenditures upon public buildings within the District by nearly 8400,000. The committee, having obtained this general information relative to the subject of their appointment, proceeded to ascertain, as far as was in their power, the rela- tive prices of materials and wages of artists and laborers at different periods during the progress of the works done in the District, and present a table thereof, which is annexed, (marked C;) also a letter from the Commissioner of tLe Public Buildings, with another table, (marked D, ) in which the estimate of prices of materials is not made for 1820; but it is stated that these are reduced, particularly the price of brick The wages of workmen are here estimated much lower than they have been in former years, as will appear on examining the same. It does not appear to the committee that lower wages than those exhibited for 1820 can be expected in this District; and the committee believe that the commis- sioner has used every exertion in his power to regulate these expenditures by similar expenses in Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York, and has obtained workmen and materials upon as good terms as could reasonably be expected, when it is con- sidered that many of the workmen, and some of the materials, are not to be obtained except from distant parts of the country. The Old Building. 231 The committee have endeavored to make themselves acquainted with the general character of the work which is designed to be bestowed upon the centre building of the Capitol; and it appears to them that it cannot properly be conducted with less attention to ornament than is designed, without injury to that fitness of parts which becomes a whole, - and they are pleased to find that the principal ornament of the centre work will not consist of expensive sculpture, but of its simple form — the rotundo. The committee think proper to suggest to the House, however, that, as it is contemplated to form the dome of the centre of brick work, in imitation of the Pantheon at Rome, and as such work will, when added to the great weight of the edifice, require the most serious attention to the foundations of the whole edifice to secure its safety, and as, from the examination which the committee have had occa- sion to make, they feel convinced that these foundations require attention, it is worthy the consideration of the House whether effectual means should not be taken to give perfect security, especially on the westerly side of the edifice, by means of walls of sufficient weight and compactness to counteract the apparent tendency of damage to the Capitol in that direction. This consideration ought to precede the execution of the massive work which is destined to complete the centre building. The latter suggestion may not appear to fall precisely within the bounds of duty prescribed to the committee; but as the prevention of damage to the public build- ings will be a saving of expense in the end, they have thought it not proper to omit it. It appears to the committee desirable that the Capitol should be finished as soon as may be conveniently done with regard to the goodness of the work. It is evident that the unfinished parts are injured every winter by that exposure to the weather which they seem unavoidably to sustain; and the prosecution of the work ought to be encouraged by the reflection that the national acquisition in the District approaches so nearly its expenditure, that it maybe presumed the total expenditure will not (when the Capitol shall be finished) much, if at all. exceed the acquisition, and would not have equalled it unless that expenditure had been swelled one million by the ruthless vandalism of the enemy, who applied the torch of destruction to the first national ornaments he approached. All which is respectfully submitted. H. Meigs, Chairman. A. Abstract of appropriations and expenditures on account of the public buildings in the city of Washington, &c., between the 13th of February, 1815, and the 1st of January, 1820. APPROPRIATIONS. 1815. February 13 For repairing the Capitol, President’s house, and public offices $500, 000. 00 100, 000. 00 200, 000. 00 80, 000. 00 1817. March 30 .... .do 1818. January 1818. April 27 do 20 For completing the wings of the Capitol * * * 1819. March 3 For finishing the wings of the Capitol * * * 51,332.00 1818. April 1819. March 20 100, 000. 00 136, 641. 00 3 do r. .* $236, 644. 00 1816. April 1817. March 29 3 For enclosing and improving Capitol square do 30, 000. 00 38, 658. 00 68, 658. 00 * * * 232 Documentary History of the Capitol. Abstract of appropriations and expenditures on account of the public buildings in the city of Washington , &c.- — Continued. EXPENDITURES. 1820. January 1 On the wings of the Capitol, to this date $679, 159. 14 * * * Do On centre building of the Capitol 8193, 705. 46 71, 602-57 Do On enclosing and improving Capitol square Amount of expenditures for which regular vouchers, admissible at the Treasury of the United States, had been received on the 1st day of January, 1820. 1, 491, 363. 24 Errors excepted : Washington, January 22, 1820. Samuel Lane, Comm issioner of Public Buildings. B. Proceeds and estimates of public property in the city of Washington. Amount of sales of public lots to the 1st of January. 1820 Five thousand one hundred and fifty-five building'lots for sale, estimated at 8180 each $706, 811. 88 927, 900. 00 740. 000. 00 48, 000. 00 $2, 422, 711. 88 192, 000. 00 Five hundred and forty-two acres of ground, reserved for the use of the United States, estimated at the same rate, would amount to Freestone quarries, wharves, water lots, &c Donation from the State of Virginia, for the use of the public buildings, 120, 000. 00 72, 000. 00 2, 614, 711. 88 Expenditures on the public buildings in the city of Washington, from the com- mencement thereof to the 1st day of January, 1S20. 788, 071. 08 679, 159. 14 * * * * Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. I A table showing the price of materials and labor, at several different periods, as given at the public buildings in Washington city. From 1793 to 1800. From 1800 to 1812. From 1815 to 1818. $1.25 to $1.33 $1.50 to $1.75 $2. 50 to $2. 75 1. 50 to 1. 75 1. 50 to 1. 75 2. 00 to 2.25 1.00 to 1.50 1.00 to 1.50 1.62 to 1.88 1.00 7.00 to 8.00 8.00 to 9.00 10. 00 to 12. 00 7.00 7.00 to 7.50 9. 00 to 9. 50 4. 66| 4. 66| 7.50 1.50 to 2.00 1.50 to 2.00 3. 00 to 4.00 1.00 1.25 to 1.50 2.00 Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. Washington, January 25, 1820. The Old Building. 233 Washington, March 11, 1820. Sir: In consequence of the desire which you expressed to ascertain the wages given at the public buildings in this city, I beg leave to submit the annexed table, exhibiting as well the prices of labor at different periods as of the principal mate- rials. Since this" business has been confided to me, I have procured semi-annually from New York, Philadelphia, .and Baltimore, reports of the wages given at each of those places, and have endeavored, as far as practicable, to regulate the wages here accord- ingly. These reports have generally shown a small advance at Baltimore over Philadelphia, and at the latter over New York. I have been compelled to continue nearly the same rate of advance at this place, notwithstanding my efforts to check it by employing agents at New York and Philadelphia to engage and send on hands. So great and general has been the demand for workmen, until latterly, that it was only by great exertions that we could retain the requisite number without yielding to exorbitant demands. Labor and materials of most kinds are now rapidly approach- ing their minimum, and it is calculated that buildings may be carried on this season for at least one-third less than could have been done two years ago. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. Hon. Henry Meigs, Chairmon, &c., &c. D. A table showing the wages and prices of materials at the public buildings in Washington city. Prom 1793 to 1800. From 1800 to 1812. F rom 1815 to 1818. 1819. 1820. Stonecutters’ wages per day.. Bricklayers’ wages per day . . Carpenters’ wages per day . . . Laborers’ wages per day Freestone, per ton Hard brick, per thousand Plank flooring, per 100 feet. . . Plank, inch, clear, per 100 feet Plank, inch, rough, per 100 feet SI. 25 to Jl. 33 1.50 to 1.75 1.00 to 1.50 .75 7. 00 to 8.00 7.00 4. 66f 1.50 to 2.00 1.00 SI. 50 to $1. 75 1.50 to 1.75 l.OO.to 1.50 75 8. 00 to 9.00 7. 00 to 7.50 4. 66| 1.50 to 2.00 1.25 to 1.50 $2. 50 to 82. 75 2. 00 to 2.25 1.62 to 1.88 1.00 10. 00 to 12.00 9. 00 to 9.50 7. 50 3. 00 to 4.00 2.00 $1.50 to $1.75 1.50 to 1.75 1. 33 to 1. 50 .88 6. 00 to 10. 00 7. 50 to 8. 50 4.00 1.50 to 2.00 1.00 to 1.25 SI. 33 to 1.50 1 . 33 to 1. 50 1.00 to 1.25 . 75 No purchases of materials this year, but ■ thepricesare reduced, par- tic ularl y brick. Samuel Lane, Com missioner of Public Buildings. [“An Act making farther appropriations for continuing the work upon the centre building of the Capitol, and other public buildings,” approved Apr. 11, 1820. (Stats, at Large, v. 3, 562.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United Stales of America in Congress assembled , That, for continuing the work of the centre building of the Capitol, and other public buildings, in the city of Washington, the following sums of money be, and the same are hereby, appropriated, viz: For continuing the work on the centre building of the Capitol, one hundred and eleven thousand seven hundred and sixty-nine dollars. For painting the inside of the north and south wings of the Capitol, and providing for the expense of making such alterations therein as have been directed during the present session of Congress, two thousand eight hundred and sixty-seven dollars. * * * For making alterations and improvements in the Senate chamber, for the better accommodation of the Senate, two thousand four hundred dollars. Sec. 2. And be it further enacted., That the said several sums be paid out of any moneys in the treasury, not otherwise appropriated. 234 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House proceedings of Nov. 27, 1820: Annals of Congress, 16-2, 458.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The following message was received from the President of the United States: To the Speaker of the House of Representatives: In conformity with a resolution of the Senate of the 28th of January, 1818, I com- municate herewith to the House of Representatives the report of the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, required by that resolution. James Monroe. Washington, Nov. 22, 1820. To the President of the United States: Sir: The expenditures on account of the centre building of the Capitol, from Octo- ber 1, 1819, to the 30th of September, 1820, as far as regular vouchers have been received, amount to one hundred and twenty-seven thousand three hundred and ninety-six dollars and fourteen cents. For the progress made in this building, I beg leave to refer to the report of the Architect, a copy of which, marked A, is annexed. I have the honor to be, most respectfully, your obedient servant, Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. A. Washington, Nov. 19, 1820. Si : At the close of the season for active operations, I present a statement of the proceedings for the past year, and of the progress made on the Capitol of the United States. The alterations and improvements suggested for the Representatives’ Room and Senate Chamber have been effected within the amount of the estimated expense. Considerable progress has also been made in regulating and improving the grounds: the planting of trees and shrubbery will be continued while the weather will permit. The work on the centre of the Capitol has been urged on with as much force and despatch as the solid nature of its construction would allow. The external walls of the west projection, and the greater part of the internal walls connected with them, have been raised to the height contemplated in the estimate for the year. The roof is raised on the north flank of the centre, and that for the south flank is prepared, but has been prevented from being put on by the inclemency of the weather in October, and by an unusual sickness among the workmen. The wall of the east front is not raised as high as was expected, from an opinion that it would be more advisable that the inner walls of the great rotunda should be carried on at the same time, for the purpose of making a more equal bearing, and pressing more regularly on the foundation. The walls of the rotunda have accordingly been commenced, and give an opportunity of viewing the style and manner in which it will be finished. Although a portion of the labor has been differently bestowed from what was first contemplated, yet it is believed that it will appear that the change was judicious, and that as much progress has been made in the work as was promised or expected; that it has been done with economy; and that the expense has been kept within the estimates. Respectfully submitted by your obedient servant, Charles Bulfinch, Architect Capitol U. S. Samuel Lane, Esq., Commissioner, &c. The Old Building. 235 [16-2, House Report No. 40.] REPORT of the Committee on Public Buildings, on the practicability of making such alterations in the Hall of the House of Representatives as will better adapt it to the purposes of a deliberative assembly, &c. January 19, 1821. — Read, and committed to a committee of the whole house tomorrow. The Committee on the Public Buildings, to whom was referred the resolution of this House, of the 19th December, 1820, instructing them “to inquire into the prac- ticability of making such alterations in the present structure of the Hall of the House of Representatives, as shall better adapt it to the purposes of a deliberative assembly; and, if no such alteration can be effected, to ascertain whether it be practicable to provide a suitable hall in the centre building of the eapitol,” report: That, in obedience to the above recited resolution, they have examined the practi- cability of making any alterations in the hall of the House of Representatives, that would render it more convenient for the transaction of public business, with all the attention in their power. They have, also, submitted the different plans for this purpose, that have occurred in the course of their inquiries, or that have been suggested to them, to the exami- nation of the architect of the public buildings, who has furnished them with his opinion of the alteration most likely to produce the desired effect in the hall of the House of Representatives, accompanied with a drawing exhibiting the form and construction of such alteration, and an estimate of the expense of its construction. From the result of their own inquiries, as well as the examination of the public architect, the committee have reason to believe, that a level glass ceiling, at the foot of the dome, resting on the stone entablature over the columns, would, in a great meas- ure, prevent the evils that are now experienced from the expansion of the voice and the reverberation of the sound; and is, on every account, the most eligible alteration for this purpose of which the room is susceptible, compatible with the preservation of the proportions of the hall and the use of the gallery, and least injurious to the beauty of its appearance. But, although the committee have no doubt that the alteration suggested may be so constructed as to be perfectly secure, and might contribute to improve the facility of speaking and hearing, in the hall of the House of Representatives, yet, they think it questionable whether the alteration is absolutely necessary, and whether the dis- advantages incident to it would not counterbalance the benefits to be derived from it. Independently of the objection arising from the expense, in the present state of the Treasury, it. is objectionable on other accounts — it would lessen the circulation of the air in the room, and render it sooner liable to become impure — would obstruct the view of the dome and impair the beauty of the hall. Experience proves that the members speak with more ease, and hear more readily, at the present session, than they did during the last. The difference, it is believed, is in a great measure to be ascribed to the drying of the walls, and there can be but little doubt but that further improvement may be expected from the same cause. The centre building of the eapitol does not furnish a suitable hall for the members of the House of Representatives. The only room that would admit them is the one destined for the library of Congress, and that, in the opinion of the committee, is not calculated for their convenient accommodation, or the admission of spectators. The committee are induced to believe, that, by carpeting the gallery, to prevent the noise which arises from moving from one place to another, and by strict order in the House, business may now be done with tolerable facility, and a few years’ expe- rience will ascertain the full effect of the drying of the walls. The committee are, therefore, of opinion, that provision should be made for car- peting the gallery; and, that any further alteration in the hall should await the result of further experience. They submit the following resolution, viz. Resolved, That a sum of money be added to the appropriations for the public build- ings, for the present year, for the purpose of carpeting the gallery of the House of Representatives. All which is submitted. Documentary History of the Capitol. 236 Hon. Silas Wood, Chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings. Sir: I have received your communication, enclosing the resolution of the House of Representatives “to inquire into the practicability of making such alterations in the present structure of the hall of the House of Representatives as shall better adapt it to the purposes of a deliberative assembly.” I have attended to the subject, and have considered the various suggestions that have been made, with a view to the desired improvement, and beg leave to present the following: The. plan of the hall under consideration was drawn, by the distinguished artist who commenced the restoration of the Capitol, from the most approved remains of antiquity; it was taken, apparently, from the designs of the Grecian and Roman theatres, traces of which are still extant; and no form could be devised better adapted to such buildings; the whole audience being arranged in concentric semi- circular rows, and facing the Prosceniam, or place of exhibition, where all that was spoken was delivered from the stage or space in front of the semicircle. This form has also been adopted, of late, in the legislative halls at Paris; but it is not found altogether convenient for a deliberative assembly, where the speakers are seated indiscriminately, and frequently with a large portion of the members in their rear; in consequence of which it has become customary there to select particular spots for desks or tribunes, as stations for those who wish to address the assembly. If such a measure could be adopted here, it would, in a great degree, remove the present com- plaint; as it is found, when religious services are performed, that the voice of the preacher is well heard, in every part of the hall, assisted, as he is, by the silence which the solemnity of worship enjoins, but which is too much interrupted on other occasions. Several suggestions have been made for improvement of the hall: 1st. To raise the floor; 2d. To contract the space by a partition of glass in the place of the present bar; 3d. To form a level ceiling at the foot of the dome, resting on the stone entabla- ture, over the columns. I cannot think that any great advantage would be derived from raising the floor; because it could not be done more than three feet, without disfiguring the columns and destroying all the beauty of their proportions; and the chief difficulty of hearing is occasioned by the reverberation and confusion of sounds from the lofty and smooth ceiling, which would not be affected by this mode of alteration. The second proposal, to reduce the space by a glass partition, is also objectionable; as, in my opinion, it would produce no effect, unless carried very high, to shut out the galleries, which the habits of our country have made indispensable; and this mode would not remove the difficulty of the dome. The third proposal, of a flat ceiling, affords a prospect of greater advantage than any other; it would reduce the absolute height of the room, in the centre, upwards of twenty feet, in which space much of the voice is lost; and would check, in a great measure, and perhaps wholly, the reverberation and echo complained of. Although it would be a subject of much regret that the beauty of the form and decoration of the dome should be obscured, yet these considerations must yield to the convenience of the legislative body. To impair the appearance of the room as little as possible, I propose that this ceiling be made of glass, and present a drawing in which its form and construction are shown; the panes to be made as large as convenient, and the principal ribs to be gilded. This ceiling would be preferable to one of w'ood and plaster, because in that, case it would hide entirely the present dome, excepting the opening of the sky-light, which must be retained, but which would lose much of its usefulness from the angle in which the light would be received, and which would hardly reach the outer rows of the circle. The Old Building. 237 I submit an estimate of the expense of a glass ceiling, amounting to five thousand dollars. If this plan is approved by the honorable House of Representatives, the work could be executed in the recess. With respect to the other inquiry of the resolution, “ whether it be practicable to provide a suitable hall in the “centre building?” I would inform the committee, that the walls of a room are built, intended for the principal library room, ninety- two feet long and thirty-four wide: it is not so large as the temporary hall on the east of the Capitol square, which was eighty by forty-six feet, and, being narrower and longer, would not accommodate the seats and desks so well. There is no arrangement made for galleries, though they might be added at the ends, but would be subject to great inconvenience from the necessity of using the same stair-case by all persons indiscriminately. This room, however, cannot be made ready for use in less than two years’ time; for all the stone-work of the western colonnade must be completed, together with an attic skreen and ballustrades, before the roof can be coppered, which will be as much as can be executed during the present year, and one more will lie necessary to finish the room and the stairs leading to it. Experience, I think, has proved that the objections to the present hall are not so forcible as they were last season, but that the members are better heard as they become accustomed to the room and to the pitch of voice required; yet, if it should be considered so inconvenient that the necessity of improving it should be thought indispensable, and would justify the expense, I would recommend that the glass ceiling be built, and a trial made of its utility at the next session; in the mean time, the outside of the centre projection would be finished, but nothing would be done to the inside of the library, until such orders might be given for the finishing of that room as circumstances should suggest to be expedient and best. Respectfully submitted, by your obedient servant, Charles Bulfinch. Estimate of the expense of a glass ceiling over the Representatives' Hall. 234 feet of circular curb, or frame work, at 75 cts §175 50 328 feet of straight curb, at 50 cts 164 00 159 do. do. at 62 cts 98 58 3,180 feet of circular sashes, at 50 cts 1, 590 00 1,050 feet of straight sash, at 35 cts 367 50 750 feet of iron rods, to suspend the frame, at 15 cts 112 50 Scaffolding, materials, and work 200 00 3,180 feet best glass, at 50 cts 1, 590 00 3,180 feet glazing and putty, at 10 cts . - 318 00 Painting and gilding 383 92 Total 5,000 00 Respectfully submitted. Charles Bulfinch. January 10, 1821. [House proceedings of Jan. 30, 1821: Annals of Congress, 16-2, p. 984.] Mr. Wood, from the Committee on the Public Buildings, made a detailed report upon the subject of the appropriations and expenditures upon the said buildings during the last year, accompanied with a bill making further appropriations for the same; which bill was twice read, and committed to a Committee of the Whole. 238 Documentary History of the Capitol. [16-2, House Report No. 50.] REPORT of the Committee on Public Buildings, with a bill making appropriations for the Public Buildings. January 30, 1821. — Read, and, with the bill, committed to a committe of the whole House on the bill making appropriations for the sup- port of government for the year 1821. The Committee on the public buildings report that they have carefully examined the different branches of labor and expenditure connected with the progress of the Public Buildings, during the last year; and have reviewed the estimates presented by the Commissioner and public Architects of the work contemplated to be per- formed the present year. The alterations and improvements in the Senate Chamber, and in the Hall of the PI ouse of Representatives, that were authorized by law at the last session of Con- gress, to render those rooms more convenient for the transaction of the public busi- ness, have been effected within the amount of the estimated expense, and within the appropriations made for those purposes. The work on the Centre Building has been continued, and, with the exception of a small portion, omitted in consequence of the sickness of the workmen and the intemperance of the season, as much has been done as was contemplated by the estimate. Some alteration has been made in the order of the execution of the work; but the Committee are perfectly satisfied that the change was judicious and proper. It appears, from a statement furnished by the Commissioner, that the labor and materials have been procured on better terms than they were the preceding year; the work appears to be well done, and the expenditure on this part of the Public Buildings- has, also, been kept within the estimates and appropriations. The Committee would have been gratified if they could, with propriety, have recommended a diminution of the annual appropriation to this object, by diminish- ing the annual amount of work to be done upon the Centre Building; but prudence and economy obviously require that the walls should be erected, and the whole building covered, before any considerable reduction in the annual appropriation for the Centre Building would be consistent with the public interest. The Committee have been furnished by the public Architect with the subjoined estimate of the cost of the labor and materials necessary in the prosecution of the work the present year, including materials for the ensuing season; and, also, a pro- vision for the improvement of the ground around the Capitol, amounting to $120,643 29. The estimate for the Centre Building is calculated with a view to complete the enclosure of the west front; to carry up the stone and brick work of the east front, and the walls of the Rotundo, to the springing of the dome. From the letter of the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, accompanying this report, it appears, that there remains unexpended of former appropriations to the different Public Buildings the sum of $26,173 56. The Committee have studied to subject this source of expense to some retrench- ment, correspondent to what is contemplated in other branches of public expendi- ture, in the only way in which it is susceptible of retrenchment. From the increas- ing value of money, and the consequent diminution in the price of almost every article used in building, it is presumed that the work may be accomplished within the estimated expense; that the progress of the building will not be retarded or embarrassed by a small reduction of the estimate; and, the Committee are of opinion, that an appropriation of $80,000, together with the unexpended balances of former appropriations, will be adequate to the completion of the estimated improve- ments on the Centre Building, the present year. * * * There are, also, some small improvements deemed necessary' in the Hall of the House of Representatives, and in the Library, the whole of which are not estimated to exceed the sum of six hundred dollars. The Committee have prepared a bill making the above mentioned appropriations, which they have directed to be reported to the House. The Old Building. 239 Appropriations and Expenditures on account of the Public Buildings and Ground in Wash- ington City, for the year 1820. 1820. April 11 April 11 April 11 April 11 May 15 Centre. Appropriation “ for continuing the work of the Centre Building of the Capitol”. Disbursements from April 1st to December 31st, 1820 *111, V69 00 95, 607 63 Unexpended balance *16,161 37 Wings of the Capitol United States. Appropriation ‘‘for painting the inside of the north and south wings of the 2, 867 00 2, 842 90 ' Disbursements to December 31st, 1820 Unexpended balance *24 10 Senate Chamber. Appropriation “for making alterations and improvements in the Senate Chamber, ” 2, 400 00 1,217 84 Disbursements to December 31, 1820 *1, 182 16 Capitol Square. Appropriation “ for graduating the ground, &c.” 1,500 00 Do 2, 000 00 3, 500 00 2, 937 46 *562 54 * * * Note. — The disbursements above stated, include those only for which regular vouchers had been received, on the 31st December last. Samuel Lane, Commissioner Public Buildings. Washington, January 11, 1821. Office of Commissioner of Public Buildings, January 25, 1821. Sir: In compliance with your letter of the 23d inst. I enclose a list of the unex- pended balances of the appropriations of last year, for the Public Buildings; the estimate of the Architect, of the sum required for carrying on the Centre Building of the Capitol, during the present year; a table of wages and prices of materials; and an estimate of the sum which it would require to complete coppering the President’s House. From the first mentioned of these papers it appears, that of the appro- priation of April 11th, 1820, for continuing the work on the Centre Building of the Capitol, there remained unexpended on the 31st day of December last, the sum of $16, 161 37 To this must be added the balance of former appropriations remaining on hand the 1st day of April, 1820, amounting to 19, 502 82 Total unexpended balance of all appropriations on account of the Centre 35,664 19 From this sum deduct the payments made since the 31st of December last 6,790 63 Outstanding bills for free stone delivered, per Architect’s esti- mate - 2, 700 00 9, 490 63 26, 173 56 240 Documentary History of the Capitol. Leaving to cover all other outstanding bills, and for current expenditures until a further appropriation is made, the sum of twenty-six thousand one hundred and seventy three dollars, fifty-six cents. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, Samuel Lane, Commissioner Public Buildings. Hon. Silas Wood, Chairman Committee Public Buildings, &c. December 6, 1820. Sir: I herewith present an estimate of the expense of materials and labor, for the further progress of the work on the Capitol of the United States for the year 1821. I contemplate, in the course of the ensuing year, to complete the stone work of the west front, to roof that projection, to insert all the window frames and sashes, and to carry up the stone and brick work, of the east front, and the walls of the rotundo, to the level for springing the dome. I have also asked a further supply for improving the grounds, and for providing materials for the following season. Respectfully, your obedient servant, Charles Bulfinch, Architect Capitol. V. S. Samuel Lane, Esq. ESTIMATE of the expense of materials and labor required for the further progress of the work on the Capitol of the United States , for the year 1821. * * * RECAPITULATION. Stone cutter’s estimate $35, 383 54 Free stone do 23, 850 00 Carpenter’s do 25,557 75 Bricks, carving, painting, &c 35,852 00 Respectfully submitted. December 6, 1820. $120, 643 29 Charles Bulfinch, Arch. Cap. U. S. * TABLE, shewing the wages, a nd prices of mater ials given at the Public Buildings in Wash- ington City, during the years 1818 and 1820. 1818. 1820. $2 50@$2 75 2 00(5) 2 25 $1 25@$1 50 1 50 1 62@ 1 88 1 00 1 00@. 1 25 70@ 75 5 50(5)' 7 00 10 00@12 00 9 00@ 9 50 5 50@ 6 00 1 25@ 1 50 3 00@ 3 50 Samuel Lane, Commissioner Public Buildings. Washington, January 11, 1821. The Old Building . 241 [“An Act making appropriations for the public buildings,” approved Mar. 3, 1821. (Stats, at Large, V. 3, 635.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled , That, for continuing the work on the centre building of the capitol, and other improvements on the public buildings, the following sums of money be, and hereby are, apppropriated : For continuing the work on the centre building, the sum of eighty thousand dollars. * * * For graduating and improving the ground around the Capitol, two thousand dollars. For improvements in the Senate chamber, and in the hall of the House of Repre- sentatives, and in the library, seven hundred dollars. Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That the unexpended balances of appropriations to other public buildings, are hereby appropriated to the centre building. Sec. 3. And be it further enacted , That the said several sums of money be paid out of any moneys in the treasury, not otherwise appropriated. [Message from tlie President of the United States, transmitting the annual report of the Commis- sioner of the Public Buildings, Jan. 17, 1822. (17 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 26.)] To the House of Representatives: In compliance with a resolution of the Senate, requesting the President “to cause a statement of expenditures upon the public buildings, and an account of their prog- ress, to be annually laid before Congress, at the commencement of each session,” I herewith transmit the annual report of the Commissioner of the Public Buildings. James Monroe. Washington, January 15th, 1822. Washington, January 8, 1822. To the President of the United States: Sir: The expenditures on account of the public buildings, and ground, in this city, during the year 1821, have been as follows: Carrying on the centre building of the Capitol $102, 314 29 Improving the Capitol square 2, 000 00 Covering the roof of the President’s house with copper 5,405 32 Slating the old Executive offices, (part done in 1820,) 5, 736 67 Total $115, 456 28 For the progress made in the centre building, during the same period, I beg leave to refer to the annexed report of the Architect. The President’s house is entirely covered in with copper, but the Architect reports that some finishing will be neces- sary to be done next season, requiring about $300. Thus the whole will be com- pleted for about $1,100 less than the appropriation. The old Executive offices have been slated with the very best materials, and workmanship, for the sum above stated, being $4,263 33 less than the estimate and appropriation. I have the honor to be, with great respect, Your most obedient servant, Saml. Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. H. Rep. 646 16 242 Documentary History of the Capitol. To Samuel Lane, Esq., Commissioner of Public Buildings: The following is presented as a report of the proceedings on the Capitol of the United States, for the past year. During the winter, workmen were employed in preparing materials, particularly of freestone, for spring use. They commenced early in April the work on the walls, which proceeded regularly until the middle of August, when a very general sickness prevailed among the workmen, and several of the principal superintendents, which occasioned interruption and delay, but, by great exertion, in the month of November, the building was brought into the state in which it now appears, and not far short of what was hoped and anticipated at the time of presenting the estimates for the year. The whole of the stone work of the western projection is complete, except the chimneys, and some carved decorations in the cornice, and some pannels. The roofs are all raised, and covered with copper, except a small portion over the library. The east wall is raised within one course of what was expected, and the walls of the rotunda are of the same level. All the window frames, shutters, and dressings, are ready for use, and the glass, from the best Boston manufactory, is on hand. A quantity of stone is provided, and is preparing for the next season, and the carpenters are engaged in making sashes, doors, &c. Considerable progress has been made in graduating the square, and regulating the grounds; and the improvements ordered for the Senate chamber and Representa- tives’ hall have been executed. The materials have been purchased at the lowest rate, and with strict attention to economy, and the work has been done with solidity and correctness. Respectfully submitted. Charles Bulfinch, Architect of Capitol of U. States. Washington, Jan. 4, 1822. [17 — 1, House Report No. 76.] REPORT of the Committee on the Public Buildings, with a bill making appropri- ations for the Public Buildings. March 25, 1822. — Read, and, with the bill, com- mitted to the committee of the whole House, to which is committed the bill mak- ing appropriations for the support of government for the year one thousand eight hundred and twenty-two. The Committee on the Public Buildings report: That they have attentively examined the Public Buildings, and, upon examina- tion, find that the work upon the Centre Building has progressed, but has not been brought to that state of perfection which was calculated by the estimates of the last year; all, however, that Avas anticipated has been done except covering with copper a small portion of the roof OA^er the Library; and the chimneys, and some carved decorations, and some pannels, on the west projection; and one course of stone on the east projection. The failure to complete the stone work that was contemplated is attributed, by the Architect, to the general sickness Avhich prevailed among the workmen, and several of the principal superintendents, Avhich occasioned much interruption and delay; but, by strenuous exertions in the month of November, the building was brought into that state in which it now appears, which is not far short of what was anticipated by the last estimate. The expenditure has been kept Avithin the appropriation, and the work has been executed Avith correctness and solidity. * * * The committee haA r e received from the Public Architect the subjoined estimates of the cost of labor and materials necessary to prosecute the work on the Centre The Old Building. 243 Building the present year, and for the improving and regulating the public ground around the Capitol. The estimate for the Centre Building is calculated with a view to finish all the Committee rooms, and to complete the large dome over the Centre Building; the. cost of which has been calculated, in the subjoined estimate of the Architect, in three different materials, “viz.” stone, brick, and wood. From the deliberation which the committee have given the subject, they recom- mend the dome to be built of wood; and the appropriation they propose is founded on the estimate for a dome of that description. The committee have examined the progress which has been made in graduating and improving the ground around the Capitol, and are of the opinion, that the labor which has been done in these two branches of expenditure is not as much as should have been performed for the several appropriations which have been made for these improvements; and the committee are, moreover, of the opinion, that such appropriations must ever continue unprofitable whilst there remains such quantity of stone and rubbish scattered over the ground which is to be improved, and therefore recommend, that no appropriation for these improvements be made the present year. Should the view which the committee have taken of this subject be approved by the House, they recommend an appro- priation of $120,000 which, in addition to the unexpended balance of the appropri- ation on the Executive office, will, in their opinion, be sufficient to bring the Centre Building to that state which is proposed by the estimate. The committee have been furnished with the subjoined estimate iyv the Commissioner, which is calcu- lated to finish the south jiortico to the President’s House, to paint the inside of the building, to graduate and construct the culvert from the building, and for partial repairs annually. The committee recommend an appropriation of $2,200 for paint- ing, constructing the culvert, and for annual repairs, which, in addition to the unexpended balance on the President’s house, will make $3,300, the sum required. The committee would have been gratified if they could have recommended the appropriation necessary to complete the south portico, but, in consequence of the large appropriation which will be necessary to carry on the centre building of the Capitol, they cannot at present recommend such appropriation, for they are of the opinion that it is more for the interest of the public to bring the Capitol to that state of progress towards completion which it is calculated to do by the estimates for the present year, than to complete the south portico to the President’s house, which can, in its present state, be protected from sustaining much injury ’till such time as the appropriation can be made more consistently with the public interest than at present. The committee have prepared a bill making the above mentioned appropriations, which they have directed to be reported to the House. Office of Commissioner of Public Buildings, Washington, January 8th, 1822. Sir: The expenditures on account of the public buildings and ground in this city, during the year 1821, have been as follows: Carrying on the centre building of the Capitol $102, 314 29 Improving the Capitol square 2, 000 00 * * * For the progress made in the centre building during the same period, I beg leave to refer to the annexed report of the architect. * * * The estimates for the present year are preparing, and when completed shall be submitted to you. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant, Samuel Lane, Commissioner Public Buildings. Hon. William S. Blackledge, Chairman, dec. dec. dec. 244 Documentary History of the Capitol. To Samuel Lane, Esq. Commissioner of Public Buildings: The following is ji resented as a report of the proceedings on the Capitol of the United States for the past year. During the winter, workmen were employed in preparing materials, particularly of free stone for spring use; they commenced early in April the work on the walls, which proceeded regularly until the middle of August, when a very general sickness prevailed among the workmen, and several of the principal superintendents, which occasioned interruption and delay; but by great exertion, in the month of November, the building was brought into the state in which it now appears, and not far short of what was hoped and anticipated at the time of presenting the estimates for the year. The whole of the stone work of the western projection is complete, except the chimneys and some carved decorations, and some pannels: the roofs are all raised and covered with copper, except a small portion over the library. The east wall is raised within one course of what was expected, and the walls of the rotundo are of the same level. All the window frames, shutters, -and dressings, are ready for use, anil the glass, from the best Boston manufactory, is on hand. A quantity of stone is provided and is preparing for the next season, and the carpenters are engaged in making sashes, doors, &c. Considerable progress has been made in graduating the square and regulating the grounds; and the improvements ordered for the Senate Chamber and Representative Hall have been executed. The materials have been purchased at the lowest rate and with strict attention to economy; and the work has been done with solidity and correctness. Respectfully submitted, Charles Bulfinch. Architect of Capitol United States. Washington, January 4th, 1822. Office of Commissioner of Public Buildings, Washington , February 5, 1822. Sir: I now enclose the estimate of the Architect, of the sum necessary for carrying on the centre building of the capital; and, also, a comparative view of the expense of a brick and stone dome over that building, exhibiting a difference in favor of the former of thirty-five thousand eight hundred and eighty-one dollars. It will be for Congress to determine, whether the greater security, durability, and elegance afforded by a stone dome, will not more than countervail the difference in first cost. I also enclose an estimate of certain repairs, &c. deemed essential for the preservation of the President’s house. I have the honor to be, with great respect, sir, your most obedient servant, Samuel Lane, Commissioner Public Buildings. Hon. William S. Blackledge, Chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings, Ac. To Samuel Lane, Esq., Commissioner oj Public Buildings: Sir: I now present to you the estimates of expense of continuing the work on the Capitol for the current year. In which, I propose to finish all the committee rooms of the centre, to build the great dome over the rotundo, and to lay the foundation of the east portico. I also hand an estimate of the dome built of brick (on which the general estimate is founded) and one built wholly of stone, which would be preferable in some respects, for solidity, and not requiring future repairs; but am apprehensive the expense would prevent so large an appropriation as it would require. I am, with great respect, your most obedient servant, Charles Bulfinch. The Old Building. 245 RECA PITULATION. Carpenter’s work $17,964 52 Stone do 57, 304 67 Brick do 12, 260 Copper and Iron work 7, 760 Plastering 20, 830 Carving, painting, &c 13, 075 Grounds, &c 3, 150 Total amount $132, 344 19 Respectfully submitted. Charles Bn, finch, Arch. Cap. U. S. February 4, 1822. Comparative view of the expense of a Dome of Brick and of Stone. FOR A BRICK DOME. Carpenter’s work on centre, with materials complete $5,000 180 tons of stone for bond course 1, 622 40 work on do 2, 895 setting do 677 50 600,000 brick, work included 8,400 Copper 7,500 feet do. 4,500 Painting 2,000 yards, at 20 cents 500 Plastering 2,324 do. at 60 cents 1,394 $24,988 90 FOR A STONE DOME. Free stone, 2242 tons, at $9 $20, 178 Work on do. 15689 feet, at $1.75 27,455 75 Setting do. at 3 per cent, on the work 8, 236 50 Copper as above 4, 500 Painting do 500 $60, 870 25 Difference between brick and stone, $35, 881 35 The estimates are made including the expense of a brick dome; if a stone dome should be preferred, the above amount of 35,881 dollars must be added. Charles Bulfinch. * * * Estimate of the expense of a dome of wood on a foundation of stone work, to cover the rotunda of the Capitol. Inside dome to form ceiling and pannels, * * * $10,136 Outside Dome for covering, * * * 3, 265 Copper, the same amount as for the other estimates $4, 500 Painting do. do. do 500 Plastering do. do. do 1,394 6, 394 $19, 795 Respectfully submitted by Hon. W. S. Blackledge, Chairman, Ac. Charles Bulfinch. 246 Documentary History of the Capitol. . [17-1, House Report No. 79.] REPORT of the Committee on the Expenditures on the Public Buildings, March 26, 1822. The Committee on Expenditures on the Public Buildings, report: That it appears, from the statement of the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, laid before the Committee, that his disbursements on account of the centre building of the Capitol, during the year 1821, were as follows, viz. For materials 832, 209 50 Freight, whai'fage, drayage, tools, smith’s bill, fuel, stationery, &c. 7, 922 49 Compensation to architect, clerk, and three persons at the head of carvers’, stone-cutters’, and carpenters’ departments _. 8,250 00 Labor, including pay of five persons employed as foremen and overseers 53, 932 30 Amount expended on centre building of Capitol in 1821 $102, 314 29 And there was expended on the President’s house, in the same year, the sum of $5, 405. 32 On old Executive offices 5, 736. 67 On ground around the Capitol 2, 017. 56 13, 159 55 Amount expended on the public buildings and Capitol square in 1821.. $115,473 84 Appropriations. 3d March, 1821. 1st Jan. 1821. For the work on centre building- of Capitol, in addition to unexpended balances of appropriations to other buildings. The unexpended balance of former appropriations for the centre building, as appears by commissioner’s letter of 25th January, 1821, was 80, 000 35,664 19 The unexpended balance of appropriations of 11th April, 1820, for wings of Capitol and Senate chamber, transferred 993 26 S116, 657 45 * * * 3d March, 1821. For graduating and improving the ground around the Cap- itol 2,000 Amount applicable to public buildings and Capitol square in 1821 8136, 502 45 From the foregoing statement it will be perceived that, with the exception of a small excess in the disbursement on Capitol square, the expenditures have been kept within the appropriations; that, on the 1st January, 1822, there was an unex- pended balance of appropriations for the centre building, and wings of the Capitol, of 14,343 dollars 16 cents, applicable to the work on the centre building, and that the amount of the sums expended on the President’s house, the old Executive offices, and the ground around the Capitol, in 1821, is less, by $6,685 45, than the amount of appropriations for those objects by the acts of the 3d of March, 1819, and the 3d March, 1821. An appropriation of $700, by the act of the 3d March, 1821, for improvements in the Senate chamber, and in the hall of the House of Repre- sentatives, and in the Library, is not embraced in the above statement. The Committee are of opinion that the materials were purchased at moderate prices, that the labor was procured on reasonable terms, and that the work has been executed in a substantial and workmanlike manner. The papers herewith sub- mitted were received from the office of the Commissioner of the Public Buildings. The paper marked A shews the quantities of several kinds of materials purchased for the centre building of the Capitol in 1821, and their prices; that marked B shews the number of persons employed by the Commissioner to jdan and superintend the execution of the work, and to keep the accounts; also, the compensation allowed to each; and the paper marked C shews the number of day’s works performed on the centre building of the Capitol by the different descriptions of artizans and laborers during the last year, and the amounts paid them for their services. The Old Building . 247 Abstract of Labor and Materials employed on the Centre Building of the Capitol of the United States, during the year 1821. Labor, including pay of architect, clerk, foremen, and overseers 1,258 tons of freestone at $5 50 to $7 00 per ton. . 1,212,045 hard burnt brick 5 50 to 6 00 per M .. 1,136 barrels of Thomaston lime 1 25 to 1 75 per bbl.. 3,596 do. of sand 21 per “ .. 65,371 feet of lumber 10 00 to 30 00 per M .. 20,472 lbs. of sheet copper 31 per lb .. All other materials Incidental expenses, ( i.e . freight, wharfage, drayage, tools, smiths’ bills, &c) Total $62, 182 30 8, 111 48 7, 074 43 1, 748 74 755 16 1,006 99 6, 346 32 7, 166 38 7,922 49 102,314 29 * * * Wages paid at the Capitol of the United States, in the year 1821. Summer. Winter. Carvers .. $1 50 per day. $1 37£ per day. Stone Cutters .. 1 374 do. 1 25 do. Bricklayers .. 1 50 do. Carpenters .. 1 124 do. 1 00 do. Coppersmiths .. 1 124 do. Laborers ■X- * 75 * do. 70 do. Errors excepted. Washington, February 11, 1822. Samuel Lane, Commissioner of Public Buildings. * * * [17 — 1, House Report No. 86.] REPORT of the Committee on the Expenditures on the Public Buildings. April 8, 1822. — Read, and ordered to lie on the table. The Committee on the Expenditures on the Public Buildings, report: That the statement in their report of the 26th ultimo, brought to view the amount of funds furnished the late Commissioner of the Public Buildings, in 1821, for defray- ing the expense of the work on the centre building of the Capitol, the President's house, the old Executive offices, and Capitol square, and the amount of expenditures during the same year on account of said buildings and Capitol square. At that time the committee did not suppose it necessary to embrace in their statement expendi- tures made prior to 1821, or appropriations not connected with the expenditures of that year; but, since the date of their former report, the committee have been induced to request the clerk of the commissioner’s office to furnish them with a statement of all the appropriations and expenditures made on account of the public buildings, and grounds connected with them, during the time the late commissioner was in office. By the statement furnished, and which is herewith presented to the House, it will be perceived that the sum of $10,594 44 is due, mostly from sundry persons to whom advances in money have been heretofore made; and that there is a 248 Documentary History of the Capitol. balance of $13,028 80, due from the estate of the late commissioner. The amount of these sums considerably exceeds the amount of the unexpended balances mentioned in the report of the 26th March; and it now appears that there is not at this time any money on hand to defray the expense of continuing the work on the centre building of the Capitol. * * * Appropriations. 1815, Feb. 15 For repairing public buildings in Washing- ton 500, 000 Expended by former commissioners, this sum 187,045 95 Balance, which came into the hands of S. Lane 312,954 5 1817, March 3 For completing repairs of public buildings . 100, 000 1818, Jan. 29 For do - do 200, 000 April 20 Wings of Capitol 80, 000 1819, March 3 Wings of Capitol 51,332 1820, Feb. 10 Wings of Capitol 75, 000 April 11 Wings of Capitol 5, 267 1821, March 3 Wings of Capitol 700 1818, April 20 President’s House 15, 214 1820, Feb. 10 President’ sib iuse 13, 174 66 April 11 President’s House 1, 100 854,741 71 1818, April 20 Centre building of the Capitol 100, 000 1819, March 3 Centre building of the Capitol 136, 644 1820, April 11 Centre building of the Capitol. 111, 769 1821, March 3 Centre building of the Capitol 80, 000 428, 413 1816, April 29 Enclosing and improving the Capitol square 30, 000 l.si 7, March 3 Enclosing and improving the Capitol square 38, 658 1820, April 11 Enclosing and improving the Capitol square 5, 591 May 15 Enclosing and improving the Capitol square • 2, 000 1821, March 3 Do do 2,000 78,249 * * Expenditures. 1822, March 22 On repairing the wings of the Capitol, per abstract A 630, 778 43 On repairing President’s House, per ab- stract A 215, 594 19 On repairing War and Treasury offices 1, 206 56 Contingent expenses, embracing a variety of accounts not properly chargeable to any one of the above buildings 6, 674 17 854, 253 35 On centre building, per abstract A 424, 088 69 Enclosing and improving the Capitol square 78,266 56 * * Washington, April 5th, 1822, J. Elgar, Clerk. The. Old Building. 249 A. Annual expenditures. Date. Wings of Capitol. Centre Building. 1816 76, 112 17 168,779 51 200, 131 98 157,383 67 27, 744 95 626 15 1817 1818 1819 1820 1821 45, 936 93 147,768 53 119, 043 35 102,314 29 9,025 59 1822 Total 630, 778 43 424,088 69 * * * Washington, April 5, 18:22. J. Elgar, Clerk. [House proceedings of Apr. 10, 1822: Annals of Congress, 17-1, p. 1517.] The bill making appropriations for the public buildings was then taken up, and Mr. Blackledge, chairman of the committee, in support and explanation of the bill, observed that, in reporting it, the committee were of opinion, the sooner the build- ings are completed, the greater will be the advantage to the Government. They were more confirmed in their opinion on this subject, when they reflected upon the large sums which had already been expended upon the public buildings, and the appropriations which would yet be required to complete them. The appropria- tion asked for at this time, Mr. B. observed, was larger than the appropriation of the last year, and he was also aware of the greater caution which is at all times exercised by the House in appropriating the public money, which is by no one more approved than by himself, but he felt it a duty incumbent on him to advocate that sum, which, if appropriated, would have, in his opinion, a greater tendency to promote the public interest, than a less sum. Should the work, however, which is proposed to be done the present year be completed, he was authorized to say, that the annual appropria- tions would in future be less. The committee were anxious to recommend a less appropriation at this time, but were convinced that it could not be done consistently with the public interest, and the sum asked for, was estimated for a wooden dome. If gentlemen will refer to the report of the Committee on Expenditures, they can- not, said Mr. B., for a moment hesitate to agree with the Building Committee in their opinion; they will there find that there is annually paid to the architect, the super- intendents, and head workmen, on the Capitol, §14,000. By procrastinating the work, this item of expenditure will continue to swell, and by the time the building was completed, would form no inconsiberable item in the whole expenditure. He therefore hoped there would be no objection, on the part of this Committee to fill the blank with the sum of $120,000, which was asked for by the Committee on Public Buildings. The recommendations of the committee were thereupon respectively agreed to; when Mr. Cocke proposed to add a proviso, similar to that which had been adopted in reference to the Navy appropriation bill, which was agreed to. The Committee then rose, and reported the said bills as amended. In the House. * * * The question of concurrence with the Committee of the Whole in their report upon the bill in relation to the public buildings, being under consideration — Mr. Smith, of Maryland, proposed to add the sum of six thousand dollars to the 250 Documentary History of tlie Capitol. amount reported for building of wood, the dome of the centre building of the Capi- tol, with the view, and for the purpose, that it be built of brick. Mr. Taylor expressed an opinion, that the construction of a dome of wood of so great extent, would be preferable to one of brick, and the question being taken, the motion was lost, and the amendments of the Committee of the Whole were respec- tively concurred in, and the bill was ordered to be engrossed for a third reading. [“An Act making appropriations for the public buildings,” approved May 1, 1822. (Stats, at Large, y. 3, 673. )] Be it enacted by the Senate, and Home of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That, for continuing the work on the centre building of the Capitol, and other improvements on the President’s house, the following sums of money be, and hereby are, appropriated: For continuing the work on the centre building, the sum of one hundred and twenty thousand dollars. * -x- * For improving the grounds around the Capitol, twelve hundred and fifty dollars. Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That the said several sums of money be paid out of any moneys in the Treasury, not otherwise appropriated: Provided, however, That no money appropriated by this act shall be paid to any person for his compensation or perquisites, who is in arrears to the United States, until such person shall have accounted for, and paid into the Treasury, all sums for which he may be liable. [Message from the President of the United States, transmitting a Report of the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, Dec. 10, 1822. (17 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 9.)] MESSAGE. I now transmit to both Houses of Congress the Report of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, made in obedience to a Resolution of the Senate, passed the 28th day of January, 1818. James Monroe. December 10th, 1822. Office of Commissioner of Public Buildings, Washington, December 10, 1822. To the President of the United States, Sir: I have the honor to report that the expenditures on account of the public buildings and ground, in this city from the 8th of May to the 7th of December, 1822, have been as follows, viz: Centre of the Capitol - - $110, 040 74 Capitol Square - - - 780 25 -x- * * Some painting and necessary repairs have been done to the interior of the House. For the progress made in carrying on the centre of the Capitol, and present state of that building, I beg leave to refer to the report of the architect. I have the honor to remain, With the greatest respect, your most obedient servant, J. Elgar, Commissioner of Public Buildings. The Old Building. 251 Washington, December 9, 1822. Sir: The season for continuing the external work on the Capitol being near its close, I present a statement of the progress made thereon, during the past year. The exterior of the western projection has been completed, by finishing the copper covering, painting the walls, and inserting the window frames and sashes; the scaf- folding is removed, and this front of the building exhibits the appearance it is intended to retain, being deficient only in the iron railings between the columns of the loggia, which are in forwardness, and will soon be executed. The two principal stories of committee rooms, with their extensive passages or corridors, are plastered, and a great portion of the carpenter’s work is finished. The principal labor of the season has been devoted to raising the dome of the centre. For this purpose, the interior walls of the rotunda were continued: as soon as appropriations were made in the spring, they were raised to the full height, and covered with the entablature and blocking course. The exterior walls were carried up with stone, formed into large pannels, and crowned with a cornice and four receding gradins; about two thirds of the interior dome is built of stone and brick, and the summit of wood. The whole is covered with a wooden dome of more lofty elevation, serving as a roof; it is hoped that a few days of favorable weather will enable the workmen to sheath it securely, when it will be in readiness for the copper covering. It will be finally crowned with a bal- ustrade, to surround a sky-light of twenty-four feet diameter, intended to admit light into the great rotunda. This work has required a great effort to complete it, from the mass of stone and other materials employed in it, and raised and secured at so great a height. I cannot omit this occasion to mention the ingenuity and persever- ing diligence of the superintendents of each branch of the work, and the cheerful and unremitted exertions of the workmen, in their endeavors to execute their orders, and to bring this part of their labors to a close. I sincerely hope that the effects of our joint efforts will meet the approbation of the President of the United States, and the Representatives of the Nation. Respectfully submitted. Charles Bulfinch, Architect of the Capitol of the United States. Joseph Elgar, Esq Commissioner of Public Bu ildings. [House proceedings of Feb. 4, 1823: Annals of Congress, 17-2, p. 802.] On motion of Mr. Hill, the Committee on the Public Buildings were instructed to consider and report what alterations will be necessary to be made in the Hall of the Representatives, so as to accommodate the increased number of members of which the Eighteenth Congress will consist. [17 — 2, House Report No. 90.] REPORT of the Committee on the Public Buildings, upon the subject of the alter- ations necessary to be made in the Hall of the House of Representatives for the accommodation of the Eighteenth Congress. Feb. 13, 1823. The Committee on the Public Buildings, to which was referred the resolution directing them to inquire and report the alterations necessary to be made in the Representatives’ Hall, for the accommodation of the Eighteenth Congress, report to the House the subjoined report of the Public Architect, made to the Committee, on the subject of this resolution. Documentary History of the Capitol. 252 The Committee approve of the plan, suggested by the Architect, and recommend it to the House. The sum necessary to effect this alteration, the Committee will include in the bill making appropriation for the Public Buildings. The Committee submit the following resolution: Resolved, That the Commissioner of the Public Buildings be directed to make the > alteration in the Representatives’ Hall, for the accommodation of the Eighteenth Congress, which the Architect recommends in his report to the Committee on the Public Buildings. REPORT OF THE ARCHITECT. February 12, 1823. Sir: In compliance with the request of the Committee on Public Buildings, I now present a plan of the floor of the Representative Hall of the United States, exhibiting the manner in which may be disposed the additional seats which will be necessary for the accommodation of the next Congress. The number of members in the 18th Congress will be 213 And of delegates from Territories 3 216 I propose to take away the stone platforms which project in advance of the prostyle, or straight range of columns. This space will give room for 9 seats on each side 18 Three desks in the second circular range, on each side, now occupied by one person, may be altered for two each 6 The number of seats on the present floor 192 216 The expense of the alteration and furniture, may be estimated as follows: 18 new desks @ $10 $180 6 alterations in desks @ $5 30 24 chairs © $20 480 Stone work, iron, and carpenter’s do 500 Respectfully submitted, by your obedient servant, Hon. W. S. Blackledge. 1, 190 Charles Bulfinch. [House proceedings of Feb. 19, 1823: Annals of Congress, 17 — 2, p. 1061.J PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The House proceeded to consider the report made on the 13th instant, by the Committee on the Public Buildings; and the report being read, as follows, viz: * * * The question was taken to agree to the resolution submitted in the said report, and passed in the affirmative. The Old Building. 253 [17 — 2, House Report No. 91.] REPORT of the Committee on the Public Buildings, accompanying “a bill making appropriations for the Public Buildings.” Febr. 14, 1823. The Committee on the Public Buildings make the following report: The committee have examined the work which has been done on the Centre Building of the Capitol, in the last year; and, as far as they are capable of judging, think that the work has been executed with correctness and solidity, and in the style of architecture. By the report of the Commissioner, of December 7th, 1822, it appears, that the expenditure has not exceeded the appropriation; the expenditure, at that time, amounting to $113,040 74, only. The committee are of the opinion, that more labor was done during the last year, and for the sum expended, than in any preceding year. All, however, that was 'calculated by the last estimates, has not been accomplished. The Centre Dome has not been coppered, and the committee rooms, in the attic story of the Centre Building, have not been finished; much, however, has been done on them. The Committee are of the opinion, that the failure to accomplish all that was calculated by the last estimates is to be attributed to the advanced period of the year when the vacancy was filled in the office of Com- missioner of Public Buildings, which had been occasioned by the death of the late Commissioner, and the appropriation made for the Public Buildings. It will be recollected, that this vacancy was not filled, nor the appropriation made, until May; after which, contracts remained to be made for most of the materials necessary to carry on the Centre Building, and, particularly, the Centre Dome. The committee have taken a view of the improvements made in the Capitol Square, during the last year, and are satisfied that greater progress has been made in its improvement, than in any former year. The Commissioner’s report shows, that the expenditure for this improvement has not exceeded the appropriation, as the expenditure has been $780 25. * * * The committee, feeling perfectly satisfied with the Commissioner’s management of the public interest, which has been committed to his charge, they feel it their duty to express their unqualified approbation of the correct and able manner in which that officer has discharged the duties of his office. The committee have subjoined the Architect’s estimate of the sum necessary to carry on the Centre Building the present year. This estimate proposes, among other things, to finish the east Portico, to a certain extent; and contains an estimate for the improvement of the Capitol Square. * * * The committee have reported a bill, making an appropriation for the several objects specified in their report. Estimate of the expense of continuing the work on the Capitol of the United States, for the year 1823. * * * RECAPITULATION. Carpenters’ work and materials $20, 489 18 Copper and iron work 9, 420 34 Brick, stone, and marble work 50,555 41 Carving, painting, and glazing 11, 458 12 254 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mastering $4,443 10 Grounds, &c 3, 150 00 $99,516 15 Respectfully submitted. Charles Bulfinch, Architect of Capitol of U. S. To Joseph Elgar, Esq. Commissioner of Public Buildings. January 9, 1823. [17 — 2, House Report No. 93.] REPORT of the Committee on Expenditures on the Public Buildings, Feb. 18, 1823. The Committee on the Expenditures on the Public Buildings, report: That they have carefully examined the accounts of expenditures on the public buildings, during the last year, and are of opinion that the accounts laid before them by the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, exhibit a fair statement of the sums of money drawn from the Treasury of the United States, at different times, under the act of the 1st of May, 1822, and of the manner in which it was expended. The money, when drawn from the Treasury by warrants, was deposited in the Office of Discount and Deposite of the Bank of the United States, in this city, to the credit of the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, and no part of it was withdrawn from said deposite, otherwise than by the check or checks of said Commissioner, drawn by him for the payment of debts contracted on account of the public buildings; nor does it appear that any part of said money was paid to any person for his compensa- tion or perquisites, who was, at the time, in arrears to the United States. The prices paid for materials and labor are considered reasonable: generally not higher, and, in some instances, lower, than in former years. From observation and inquiry, the Committee are induced to believe, that the artizans and other persons employed, were industrious and faithful in the execution of their work; and that the progress in the work on the centre building of the Capitol, during the last year, compared with the money expended thereon in the same period, was as great as could have been reasonably expected. The sum appropriated by the act of the 1st May, 1822, for continuing the work on the centre building of the Capitol, was $120,000; and there was received for refuse materials sold, the sum of $1,341 56; amount of both sums $121,341 56. The amount expended on the centre building of the capitol, by the present commis- sioner, in 1822, was $113,124 28. The sum appropriated by the same act for con- structing a culvert to the President’s House, painting, and necessary repairs of the same, was $3,300; and the sum expended thereon in 1822, and since the passage of said act, was $3,054 35. The sum appropriated for improving the ground around the Capitol, by the act aforesaid, was $1,250; and the sum expended thereon was $845 50. From the foregoing statement, it appears, that the expenditures in each case were kept within the appropriations; and that, on the 1st January, 1823, the unexpended balances of the before mentioned appropriations, were as follow, viz: Of the sum appropriated for continuing the work on the centre building of the Capitol, including the sums which were received for refuse mate- rials sold $8,217 28 Of the sum appropriated for constructing a culvert to the President’s House 245 65 And of the sum appropriated for improving the ground around the Capitol 404 50 $8,867 48 * * Amount of said balances The Old Building. 255 A. Abstract of disbursements made by Joseph Elgar, Commissioner of Public Buildings, during the year 1822, on account of the Centre Building of the Capitol of the United Stales. * * * RECAPITULATION. Superintendence and labor 61,077 49 Materials 47, 764 04 Incidental expenses 4, 282 75 $113, 124 28 Washington, January, 1828. J. Elgar, Com. Pub. Buildings. Office of Commissioner of Public Buildings, Washington, January 4, 1823. Sir: I had the honor to receive your letter of the 2d instant, requiring a statement of the money drawn by me from the Treasury of the United States, under the act making appropriations for the public buildings of the 1st of May, 1822, and an account of the sums expended by me, since that date; requiring, also, information, whether the progress of the work has equalled the calculations of the architect, in his estimate of last year; whether any deduction can be made from the compensation of the persons employed at the Capitol; whether any part of the balance, standing against sundry persons on the books of the late Commissioner of Public Buildings, has been collected; and whether the whole, or any part of the balance due from the estate of said Commissioner, has been paid. I have the honor to submit, herewith, abstracts of my accounts for the year 1822. In my opinion, the work done on the centre building of the Capitol has not exceeded the rate at which it was estimated. All the work, upon which the estimate of last year was predicated, has not been completed, but, it is believed, that the sum appro- priated fell short of the estimate in as great proportion. On the first day of October last, I gave notice to the persons employed at the Capi- tol, of general reduction of salaries, to commence with the present year, as follows: the architect to be reduced from 2,500 to 2,000 dollars per annum; and the superin- tendents of the carvers’, stone cutters’, and carpenters’ departments, each, to be reduced from 1,500 to 1,250 dollars per annum. No further reduction is thought expedient at this time. * * * With great respect, I have the honor to remain, your most obedient servant, J. Elgar, Com. P. B. Hon. Jeremiah Nelson, Chairman of the Committee on Expenditures on the Public Buildings, &c. [House proceedings of Mar. 3, 1823: Annals of Congress, 17 — 2, p. 1172.] On motion of Mr. Blackledge, the Commissioner of the Public Buildings was ordered to furnish such of the rooms in the centre building as shall be finished, for the reception of the Committees of the Eighteenth Congress, and the additional rooms for the Clerk’s department; and that the necessary expense be paid out of the contingent fund of the House. Documentary History of the Capitol. 256 [From the “Act making appropriations for the support of government for the year one thousand eight hundred and twenty-three,” approved Mar. 3, 1823. (Stats, at Large, v. 3, 762.)] For carrying on the centre building of the Capitol, one hundred thousand dollars. [“An Act making appropriations for the public buildings,” approved Mar. 3, 1823. (Stats, at Large v. 3, 784.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of A merica in Congress assembled, That the following sums of money be, and the same are hereby, appropriated, to wit: * * * For making the necessary alteration in the Representatives’ Hall, for the accom- modation of the eighteenth Congress, the sum of one thousand two hundred dollars. * * * For an allegorical ornament for a clock for the use of the Senate, two thousand dollars. Sec. 2. And be it further enacted , That said several sums of money be paid out of any moneys in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated. [Message from the President of the United States, transmitting a report of the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, Dec. 18, 1823. (18-1, House Ex. Doc. No. 8.)] To the House of Representatives of the United States: In compliance with a resolution of the Senate, of the 28th January, 1818, I, here- with, transmit to Congress the report of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, shewing the expenditures on Public Buildings, and other objects committed to his care, during the present year. James Monroe. .Office of Commissioner of Public Buildings, Washington, December 8, 1823. Sir: I have the honor to state, that the expenditures on the Public Buildings, and other objects committed to my care, during the present year, have been as follows: Continuing the work on the centre building of the Capitol United States. $94, 778 45 Alterations in the Representatives’ hall, for the accommodation of the Eighteenth Congress 1,200 00 An allegorical ornament for a clock for the use of the Senate 2, 000 00 Improving the ground around the capitol 896 53 * * * For the progress made in the work on the principal buildings, I beg permission to refer to the reports of the respective architects. I have the honor to remain, your most obedient servant, J. Elgar, Commissioner of Public Buildings. The President of the United States. The Old Building. 257 REPORT OF THE ARCHITECT OF THE CAPITOL. Joseph Elgar, Esq. Commissioner of Public Buildings. Sir: In preparing the report of the progress of the work on the Capitol of the United States during the present year, I look back to the estimates presented the 9th January last, in which I proposed, on the exterior, to cover the dome with cop- per, to build the chimneys and cope the walls with stone, and to raise the arcade, which is to support the eastern portico, to the height of the first story. In the inte- rior, I contemplated to finish the upper suite of committee rooms, and the corridor connected with them; the library and rooms on the principal floor, and the hemi- sphere of the dome; to raise one flight of back stairs, and two stories of the principal stairs; to pave the passages and rotundo with' stone, and to make the alterations in the Representatives’ hall. The whole of the above described work has been carried on, and the greater part is finished. Some disappointment and delay were experienced from the want of a supply of lime in the spring, and from the difficulty of getting stone from the quar- ries, owing to the heavy rains of the early part of summer. The front arcade is raised to the height expected, but the brick arches to form the platform have not been turned; even if other circumstances had permitted, I think it would not have been advisable to have done it, as the mortar could not have hardened, and the joints would have been exposed to injury from weather. The great staircase is made passable; but the paving of the side platforms, and the iron railing, are not complete. The flagging of the rotundo, and the carpenter’s work of the library, remain to be finished; as the materials are on hand, the work may be executed within the year from the date of the appropriation. A number of carvers have been employed in preparing the capitals of the columns wanted for the next year; they will be continued on this branch: and other stone work will be getting in readiness during the winter. The above statement exhibits a full view of the progress of the building, and of the particular cases in which it may seem to come short of expectation, with the causes that may be assigned therefor. Upon the whole, it must appear to have been a season of exertion; that the time and appropriation have not been misapplied, and that the work, in all its branches, has been executed in the best manner, and, I am happy to add, without any untoward accident. With respect to the convenience of arrangement and style of design, I indulge the hope, that, as they have obtained the sanction of the President of the United States, they will also be approved by the members of both bodies of the Legislature, for whose use they are specially intended. In the corridors, and adjoining rooms, I have aimed at convenience and ease of access. In the rotundo, a bold simplicity has been studied, suitable to a great central entrance and passage to more richly finished apartments. This room is ninety-six feet in diameter, and of the same height; its walls are divided into twelve compartments, by stone pilasters, or Gre- cian Antse; four of these compartments are occupied by doors, and the others by pannels to receive paintings. The Antse support a Grecian entablature, decorated with Isthmean wreaths in the frieze, apparently in honor of the subjects of national history to be exhibited below. The concave of the dome is divided into five ranges of large and deep caissons, finished plainly; and a border of Grecian honeysuckle surrounds the opening of the skv-light twenty-four feet in diameter, which gives light to the whole rotundo. The library-room is ninety-two feet long, thirty-four feet wide, and thirty-eight feet high; it is finished with alcoves or recesses for books, according to the most approved models of rooms for this use, with a gallery above, giving access to other alcoves. The ceiling is richly finished in pannels of stucco, with three sky-lights. H. Rep. 646 17 258 Documentary History of the Capitol. This room opens to the west, upon an extensive loggia, or covered walk, from which the variegated prospect of the city, the river, the public grounds, and the surround- ing heights, appear to great advantage. Respectfully submitted. Charles Bulfinch, Architect of the Capitol of the U. States, j December 6, 1823. * * * [18 — 1, House Report No. 60.] REPORT of the Committee on the Public Buildings, in relation to the operations on said buildings during the last year, and to their present state. Feb. 12, 1824. — Accompanied by a bill making appropriations for the public buildings. The Committee on the Public Buildings make the following report: The Committee have examined the work which has been done on the centre build- ing of the Capitol, during the year preceding, and find that as much progress has been made towards its completion, as was proposed in the estimate of the Architect. * * * The Committee have likewise cast their eye on the improvements made in the Capitol square the last season. They are satisfied that the money appropriated for this purpose, has been judiciously and economically expended; though, from the smallness of the sum, not much of utility or ornament could be effected. By the report of the Commissioner, dated December, 1823, it appears that the expenditures on the above objects, have, in no instance, exceeded the appropria- tions. Upon a full survey of the subject, the Committee find reasons to be highly gratified with the ability, promptitude, and faithfulness, displayed by the Commis- sioner in the management of the public interests cam mitted to his trust. They are also disposed to award due praise to the Architects, not only for their assiduity and zeal in prosecuting the work on the public edifices; but, also, for the style of the workmanship — uniting ornament with strength, and giving solidity to grandeur. The Committee have annexed the Architect’s estimate of a sum necessary to carry on the work proposed to be done on the centre building of the Capitol the present year. This estimate proposes to finish the interior of the building, and to raise the columns of the Portico, with the architraves, together with some improvements in the Capitol square. * * * They are also of the opinion that, as the state of the public Treasury will justify the expenditure, the soundest maxims of national economy require that the public buildings, with all convenient expedition, should be carried to that state of perfec- tion which, according to the original design, was contemplated. Subjoined, likewise, are estimates of the expense for making repairs and improvements in the room of the Supreme Court, in the Capitol, and for paving a foot-walk in front of the public grounds and open spaces between the Capitol and Navy Office, with the observations of the Commissioner thereon. In the opinion of the Committee, the convenience and utility of these improve- ments are too obvious to need further recommendation. The Committee offer a bill, making appropriation for the several objects specified in their report. The Old Building. 259 Estimate of the Expense of the work on the Capitol of the United States, for the year 1824. It is contemplated to finish the interior of the building, and to raise the columns of the Portico, with the Architrave. Carpenter’s materials and work, * * * $7,048.20. Stone and brick work, East Portico, to consist of twenty-four columns and two pilasters, * * * $31,827.31. Third flight of great central stairs, * * * 5, 904 43 North back stairs, from first story to the roof, * * * 1,978 65 Spiral stairs, to the south, * * * 1, 705 50 Paving the upper and lower rotundo, basement passages, &c., * * * 16,527 93 Plastering and stucco work, * * * 3, 782 30 Iron work, &c., * * * 4,386 85 Carving and painting, * * * 10, 258 90 Grounds, &c., * * * 3,738 83 * * * Respectfully submitted, Charles Bulfinch, Architect of Capitol of the United States. Joseph Elgar, Esq. Commissioner of Public Buildings. * * ■X- Estimate of the expense of materials and labor, for repairs and improve- ments on the room of the Supreme Court, in the Capitol; being indispen- sably necessary for the comfort ami accommodation of the court * * * $63657 Respectfully submitted. Charles Bulfinch, Architect of Capitol of U. States. Joseph Elgar, Esq. Commissioner of Public Buildings. * * * [House proceedings of Mar. 13, 1824: Annals of Congress, 18—1, pp. 1778, 1779.] The House having under consideration the amendments to the bill making appro- priations for the support of the Government for 1824 — Mr. Cushman, of Maine, addressed the House to the following effect : * * * The Capitol, in which we exert our talents and display our eloquence for the common defence and general welfare, stands on an eminence which overlooks a vast extent of country. As far as the eye can extend its vision, the rural scenery around borders on the sublime and beautiful; and, to me, it seems that this site, and landscape, and the objects presented to view, invite us, with a powerful, though silent, eloquence, to give to the metropolis of our nation correspondent magnificence and beauty. The proud oppressors of the earth, at different periods of time, have erected cities to their own fame, and adorned them with spoils of conquered nations. Not so is it with the city of Washington. The people of the United States, prompted by motives which do honor to the Republican character, decreed it, and are rearing it up to perpetuate the name of the Father of his Country. As long as our Republic shall remain, it will be a standing monument to his glory. And will it not Tie gratifying to the best feelings of patriotism, and become a noble excitement to emulation, to behold the stately structures corresponding to the great- ness of his achievements, reflecting the splendor of his talents and the munificence of his virtues. But, in all things, Mr. Speaker, I would observe the golden mean. 260 Documentary History of the Capitol. I am no advocate for extravagant expense, empty parade, and useless ostentation. I only aim at simple grandeur. But I certainly entertain the opinion that, of all governments, a republic ought to appear with sober pomp and modest splendor. Not the dazzling radiance of a throne is here reflected; but the mild lustre, the serene majesty, of the sovereign people. Whatever be the intrinsic excellence of an individual, it not unfrequently happens, that, for the want of a certain decorum, a bland manner, or an ingratiating deport- ment, his superior endowments are of diminished utility to himself and to his fellow- men. “Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth an unsavory perfume; so doth a little folly him who is in reputation for wisdom and honor.” It is the same with government. For the want of a smooth and attractive exterior, by which the harsh features of power are softened, it alienates public opinion, and loses somewhat of its authority to promote the public good. Hence, the wisdom of giving to our Republic, and all appurtenant, those graceful decorations, which, by the law of our nature, conciliate attachment and engage esteem. In the course of my reading, I have somewhere met with an observation of this import — “Great men first make the government, and then the government makes great men.” Certain it is, that onr Government w r as founded by men preeminently great. And it is equally true that they endowed it with the capacity to produce their own likeness. “My heart’s desire, and even prayer to God,” is, that this native tendency, or inherent capacity, may never be counteracted or impaired by a short-sighted, narrow-minded, heart-sickening, energy-destroying policy. I have no sympathies in common with those politicians, on whatever part of the globe they may dwell, who are for waging an exterminating war with all that is decorous and ornamental in society; whose policy, whatever be their motive, tends to replunge the civilized world into the depths of Gothic ignorance and grossness, and, Vandal- like, to involve the lofty column, the magnificent dome, the superb structures, the proud monuments of art, the boast and glory of refined ages, together with the works of genius and taste, in one indiscriminate ruin. It is the office of the states- man not to pull down, but to build up; not to deteriorate, but to improve his coun- try. And the genuine patriot, in the work of amelioration and embellishment, will feel the generous ardor, the noble enthusiasm, of the poet who paints for eternity. Our Republic is not destined to crawl on the ground, and feed on dust, like the ser- pent. It is now erect, and in the image of its creators. Its genius, like theirs, is elevated and noble. The American Eagle is capable of a flight as lofty, and, in the cause of liberty and humanity, far more glorious, than the Roman. This emblem of our greatness already appears with healing under her wings, which, in due time, I trust, will be benignly extended over all oppressed nations. Mr. McArthuk, of Ohio, rose in reply. He should not attempt, he said, to follow the gentleman from Maine, in all the windings of the learned speech he had just delivered. For himself, he was a backwoodsman, brought up in tents and camps, and not practised in making fine speeches. * * * As to the magnificence of this Hall and the Capitol, to which the gentleman had alluded, the expenditure to produce it was, in a great measure, money thrown away. This Hall, as a place for speaking, was nearly useless — it was merely by accident that any thing could be heard at his seat that was read from the Clerk’s table — members voted in the dark — and might be voting away the public money without knowing it, for the want of distinctly hear- ing the resolutions read at the Clerk’s table. Government would yet have to aban- don it, and build a plain square room, where members could hear what each other said. He, therefore, thought that the style of this Hall ought to be no guide in erecting our public buildings; and he hoped never to see it followed. * * * Mr. Kremer, of Pennsylvania, said * * * Perhaps the gentleman might think this Hall, too, was a monument of “simple grandeur” — but, for his part, Mr. K. said, he thought it was a monument of pride and extravagance, and not of old Repub- The Old Building. 261 lican principles. He could not undertake to answer the gentleman’s line speech; to him, a great part of it was unintelligible; and, in reply to some quotations he had made in it, from a dead language, he should answer in his own mother German tongue: Ich babe es nicht verstanden. a He did not believe that any man had a right to entail debt upon posterity. Congress, to be sure, had the power to do so, but they could not do it on any moral principle. And, before we set about making monu- ments of “simple grandeur” we had better be sure that we have the money to make them in our pocket. He did not think Congress had a right even to put up a neces- sary building, till we were able to pay for it — [a laugh, and a call to order], * * * Mr. Sharpe, of New York, made a farther inquiry about some stone which were dressed, and lay in front of the Capitol. Mr. Cushman explained. [From' the “Act, making appropriations for the support of the Government for the year one thousand eight hundred and twenty-four,” approved Apr. 2, 1824. (Stats, at Large, v. 4, 16.)] . For continuing work on the centre building, eighty-six thousand dollars. [18 — 1, House Report No. 106.] REPORT of the Committee on the Expenditures on the Public Buildings. April 13, 1824.— Read: Ordered that it lie upon the table. The Committee on the Expenditures on the Public Buildings, report : That the account of the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, herewith presented, marked A, exhibits a correct statement of the sums of money appropriated by the acts of the 3d of March, 1823, for carrying on the work on the Public Puddings; for improving the ground around the Capitol; * * * together with a statement of the unexpended balances of the money appropriated for the Public Buildings, and for the ground around the Capitol, by the act of the first of May, 1822, which appro- priations, ami unexpended balances amount to §143,659 01, including the sum of §592 92, received for refuse copper sold. Said account also exhibits a correct state- ment of the sums of money expended upon the Public Buildings, ground around the Capitol, * * * amounting to §131,468 22, and shews an unexpended balance of said appropriations, on the 31st of December, 1823, of §12,190 79. The statement in the paper marked B shews the sums of money paid to the Architect, and to the superintendents of the different branches of the work on the centre building of the Capitol, for their respective annual salaries, the amount of wages paid to the different denominations of artizans, and other laborers, their pay per day, and the number of days’ work performed by them during the last year; the sums paid for materials, and the quantity and price of the several kinds of materials purchased. This paper also exhibits an account of incidental expenses; and, by way of reca- pitulation, states, that the sums expended in 1823, for superintendence, and for labor in carryingon the work on the centre building of the Capitol, amounted to. §68, 937 32 That the sums expended for materials, for said buildings, amounted to. 33, 214 96 And, that the sums paid for sundries, as per account of incidental expenses, amounted to 2, 146 30 §104, 298 58 I didn’t understand the gentleman. 262 Documentary History of the Capitol. The committee further report, that the expenditures upon the aforesaid objects of appropriations were kept within the limits of their respective appropriations; that the materials and labor were procured at reasonable prices; that they have reason to believe that, the work has been well executed, and that the progress of the woi'k, on the centre building of the Capitol, during the last year, corresponded, in a good degree, with the expenditure upon that building during the same period. The committee have given the accounts, herewith presented, a careful investiga- tion; and, while they have the satisfaction of expressing their approbation of the manner in which said accounts are kept, by the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, they cannot refrain from expressing their opinion, that the advance of two thousand dollars, made to Mr. Enrico Causici, by the order of the President of the United States, prior to any work having been performed by said Causici, towards the completion of a contract made with him “for an allegorical ornament for a clock, for the use of the Senate,” was not authorized by the act concerning the disburse- ment of public money, of January 31, 1823. The committee, therefore, in explana- tion of this subject, submit the following papers, viz: A copy of the bond and contract of Mr. Causici, and his sureties, with the Com- missioner of the Public Buildings, the order of the President, and the receipt for the payment of the money, marked C. A copy of a letter from Mr. Causici, dated at New York, February 16th, 1824, to the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, marked D. A letter from the Commissioner of the Public Buildings to the Chairman of the Committee on the Expenditures on the Public Buildings, dated April 6, 1824, marked E. * * * B. Abstract of Expenditures made by Joseph Elgar, Commissioner of the Public Buildings, from the 1st of January, to the 31st of December, 1823, on account of the Centre Building of the Capitol of the United States. * * * RECAPITULATION. Superintendence and labor §>68, 937 32 Materials 33, 214 96 Incidental expenses 2, 1 46 30 Total §104, 298 58 Washington, January 1, 1824- J. Elgar, Commissioner of Public Buildings. Note. Of the above sum there has been expended, since the appro- priation of the 3d of March, 1823, the sum of §96, 199 95 Leaving an unexpended balance of that appropriation, of 3, 800 05 §100, 000 00 [18 — 1, Senate Report No. 80.] In Senate of the United States, May 21, 1824. Mr. Dickerson, from the Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives, to whom was referred the resolution directing them to make such distribution of The Old Building. 263 the rooms of the Centre Building cf the Capitol, as the business and convenience of the two Houses of Congress require, reported: That, in the Centre Building, besides the Rotunda and Library room, the purposes of which are already designated, there are the following rooms: IN THE BASEMENT STORY. 2 Corner rooms . 2 Looking West. 2 Smaller do. . 1 Looking North 1 Do. South 19 by 27 feet. 22 30 14 30 18 24 18 24 8 Rooms suitable for committees 4 Opening into Courts. SECOND STORY. 2 Corner rooms 2 Looking West 2 Do. South and North ... 1 Looking on South Court 1 Do. on North Court 1 Looking West, under Library 4 Open to East Courts 19 by 27 feet. 22 30 18 24 19 20 19 24 30 42 17 17 8 13 13 IN THE THIRD STORY. 2 Corner rooms 19 by 27 feet. 2 Looking South and North 18 24 2 Do. do. 12 18 1 On South Court 19 20 1 On North do 19 24 IN THE FOURTH STORY. 2 Corner rooms 19 by 27 feet. 2 Looking South and North 18 24 2 Do. do. 12 18 1 On South Court 19 20 1 On North do 19 24 37 The committee have appropriated the room in the third story, adjoining the Library room, and on the north of it, and the room adjoining thereto on the east, numbered 22, as reading rooms, to be connected with the Library. They recom- mend that the room adjoining that last mentioned, and on the east of it, numbered 23, be appropriated as a consultation room for the use of the Judges of the Supreme Court of the United States. They also recommend that, until Congress shall make a further disposition of the large room under the Library in the second story, the same may be occupied by the Columbian Institute as a place for holding their meet- ings, and a place of deposit for their books, papers, furniture, and collections. As to the remaining rooms, the committee have appropriated all those north of the centre of the building, except the fourth story, to the Senate, and all those south 264 Documentary History of the Capitol. of the centre, together with the whole of the fourth story, to the House of Representatives. The committee therefore submit the following resolution: Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled. , That the distribution of the rooms in the Centre Building of the Capitol be made agreeably to the above report. [House proceedings of May 21, 1824: Annals of Congress, 18 — 1, p. 2683.] COMMITTEE ROOMS, &c. Mr. Taylor, from the joint committee appointed by the two Houses of Congress to make such distribution of the rooms of the centre building of the Capitol, as the business and convenience of the two Houses require, made the following report, viz: * * * [Identical with Senate Rep. No. 80. J The report and resolution were read, and agreed to by the House. On motion of Mr. Taylor, it was then resolved that a committee be appointed to make distribution of the rooms in the Capitol, appropriated to the use of the House of Representatives; and Mr. Taylor, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Kent, Mr. Tod, Mr. Hemp- hill, Mr. Condict, and Mr. Eddy, were appointed the said committee. [House proceedings of May 26,1824: Annals of Congress, 18 — 1, p. 2764.] COMMITTEE ROOMS, &c. Mr. Taylor, from the Commitee appointed to make distribution of the rooms in the Capitol appropriated to the use of the House of Representatives, reported that, the committee had distributed the rooms in the following manner: To the Speaker, No. 3, of the south wing; To the Committee of Elections, The room in the fourth story of the centre build- ing over No. 23; To the Committee of Ways and Means, No. 77 of the south wing; To the Committee of Claims, No. 50 of the south wing; To the Committee on Commerce, No. 40 of the centre building; To the Committee on the Public Lands, The northwest corner room of the fourth story; To the Committee on the Post Office and Post Roads, No. 42 of the centre build- ing; To the Committee of the District of Columbia, The southwest corner of the base- ment story; To the Committee on the Judiciary, The room in the fourth story over No. 14; To the Committee on Pensions and Revolutionary Claims, No. 69 of the south wing; To the Committee on Public Expenditures, No. 43 of the centre building; To the Committee on Private Land Claims, No. 39 of the centre building; To the. Committee on Manufactures, The room in the fourth story over No. 15; To the Committee on Agriculture, The room in the fourth story over No. 22; To the Committee on Indian Affairs, No. 59 of the south wing; To the Committee on Military Affairs, The room to the right of the west entrance on the basement story; To the Committee on Naval Affairs, No. 64 of the south wing; To the Committee on Foreign Affairs, The southwest corner room of the fourth story; The Old Building. 265 To the Committee of Revisal and Unfinished Business, No. 70 of the south wing; To the Committee of Accounts, No. 63 of the south wing; The Committees on Expenditures in the different Departments, shall have the right of holding their meetings in the rooms appropriated to the committee appointed on the subjects to which they severally relate; To the Clerk of the House and his Clerks, Nos. 14, 15, 16, of the centre building; To the Sergeant at Arms, No. 2 of the south wing; The unappropriated rooms shall be subject to the order and disposal of the Speaker until the further order of the House. The said report was read; whereupon it was resolved that this House do agree to the same. [Message from the President of the United States; transmitting a report of the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, Dec. 14, 1824. (18 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 8.)] To the House of Representatives: Agreeably to a resolution of the Senate, of 28th January, 1818, requesting the President “to cause a statement of expenditures upon the Public Buildings, and an account of their progress, to be annually laid before Congress, at the commencement of each session,” I herewith transmit a report from the Commissioner of Public Buildings, which contains the information required. James Monroe Washington, December 13, 1834- REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF THE PUIS [JO BUILDINGS TO THE PRESIDENT. Office of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, Washington, December 10, 1824- Sir: In obedience to a resolution of the Senate, passed the 28th day of January, 1818, requesting the President of the United States “to cause a statement of expendi- tures upon the Public Buildings, and an account of their progress, to be annually laid before Congress, at the commencement of each Session,” I have the honor to report, that the expenditures of the present year are as follows: Centre building of the Capitol $89,849 65 * * * The interior of the Capitol is now finished, with the exception of some painting on the stone work, which is not sufficiently seasoned to receive it, and the has relief ornaments of the Rotundo. The estimates of the present year were predicated upon putting up the whole colonnade of the Portico, and its architrave. In this we have not entirely succeeded. The quarry, from which alone the column shafts could be procurred in solid blocks, failed to furnish them of suitable quality, as fast as had been anticipated; thirteen, only, out of twenty-four, arriving in time to be worked and set. But, to the portion of architrave already set, the frieze has been added, and other work on the cornice and pediment, not embraced by the estimate, will have been done, equivalent to the part which it was found impracticable to execute. In the mean time, the quarrying is prosecuted with vigor; and, from present appear- ances, the residue of the shafts will be ready for delivery early in the Spring. The accompanying report of the Architect gives the detail of the operations at the Capitol, and pays a just tribute to the memory of Mr. Andrei. * * * I have the honor to remain, Sir, your most obedient servant, J. Elgar, Comm. Pub. Buildings. The President of the United States. Documentary History of the Capitol . 266 REPORT OF THE ARCHITECT OF THE CAPITOL TO THE COMMISSIONER OF THE PUBLIC BUILDINGS. W ashington, December 8 , 1824. Sir: The close of the season for active operations on the work of the Capitol requiring a report of the progress and present state of the building, I have the pleas- ure to announce, that the whole interior of this national edifice is now complete, with the exception of some ornamental sculpture, and the painting of part of the work, which was too fresh and damp to receive it at this time. The work has been executed, according to designs approved by the President of the United States, of the best materials, and in the most faithful manner. During the past season, the committee rooms and passages of the basement have been finished, the North and South stairs of the centre, and the upper flight of the principal stairs, have been built, the lower rotundo paved, and the arches finished which support the floor of the principal rotundo. This spacious apart- ment has been also paved in the best manner, and otherwise finished, except- ing the carved ornaments to the upper panels. The Library and contiguous rooms are complete, and are furnished and occupied for use. On the exterior of the build- ing, great progress has been made on the eastern portico; thirteen columns and two angle pilasters are raised, and covered with the architrave and frieze; but it was not found practicable to complete the whole colonnade, from disappointments arising from the difficulty of quarrying and transporting the large blocks of stone for the columns, which are each in one entire piece; but enough has been done to shew the convenience which this addition to the building will afford, and the effect which this principal feature of the Eastern front will produce. While the past season has been one of unusual good health among the workmen in general, we have to regret the death, after a short illness, of Mr. Giovanni Andrei, the Superintendent of the ornamental works of sculpture and carving. This gentle- man came to this city in the year 1806, from Carrara, in Italy, where he had been selected by the correspondent of Mr. Jefferson, then President of the United States, as a sculptor, well qualified to take charge of the decorative branch of the work; which he superintended, under the direction of the several Architects who have been employed on the building, until the time of his death, in October last. His ability and refined taste are fully evidenced in the ornamental parts of the Capitol, mod- elled by him, and executed under his inspection; while all, who have been officially connected with him, can bear witness to his fidelity and persevering industry, and to the urbanity and correctness of his deportment. In expressing my respect for the character of Mr. Andrei, and regret at his loss, I hope it will not be considered improper to make this mention of him, in a report on a work which his talents have so much contributed to improve. Respectfully presented. Charles Bulfinch, Architect Capitol U. States. Joseph Elgar, Esq. Comm' r Public Buildings. [18-2. House Report No. 38.] REPORT of the Committee on the Expenditures on the Public Buildings in the year 1824. January 24, 1825. — Ordered to lie on the table. The Committee on the Expenditures of the Public Buildings, report: That they have bestowed particular attention upon the accounts laid before them by the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, and find that the sum of $96,020 93 was expended, during the last year, on the centre building of the Capitol: that $84,332 99 The Old Building. 267 of that sum were expended after the passage of the act of the 2d April, 1824, appropriating $86,000 for continuing the work on the centre building of the Capitol. The excess of the whole year’s expenditure, over the appropriation just mentioned, was principally defrayed bjr the use of unexpended balances of former appropria- tions for the public buildings; including the sum of $4,280 27 paid by the adminis- trator towards the debt due from the estate of Samuel Lane, late Commissioner of the Public Buildings. By the aforesaid act, the following sums were also appropri- ated, viz: $640 for alterations and repairs in the room occupied by the Supreme Court, $2,000 for improving Capitol square, and painting the fence around the same; and $5,000 for making a footway in front of the public grounds and open spaces between the Capitol and the Navy Office. The objects of these several appropria- tions have been completed, or nearly so, and the expenditure has in no case exceeded the approjiriation. By an act passed the 3d March, 1823, the sum of $19,000 was appropriated for finishing the south portico of the President’s House; and by the act of the 26th May, 1824, the sum of $3,289 50 was appropriated for furnishing the rooms in the centre building of the Capitol. * * * A thorough examination of the accounts and vouchers laid before them by the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, and information otherwise derived, induce the committee to believe, that the aforesaid expenditures were made conformably to law, and with proper attention to economy and the public interest. The materials and labor were procured on reasonable terms, and the work appears to have been well executed, both in regard to style and its character for durability and usefulness. It was contemplated in the estimate furnished by the architect in February last, to raise the whole colonnade of the eastern portico of the Capitol in the course of the last season. This portion of the work has been but partly accomplished. The Com- missioner states, that the whole colonnade could not be completed, because the quarry failed to furnish suitable blocks for the columns, as fast as had been antici- pated; he, however, represents that other work, not embraced in the estimate, has been done, equivalent to that which it was found impracticable to execute. Some branches of the work on the centre building of the Capitol having been nearly com- pleted, the Commissioner has been able to dispense with the services of one superin- tendent and several overseers, heretofore employed on the work. The papers herewith submitted, afford a plain and correct view of the transactions of the Com- missioner of the Public Buildings during the last year. * * * A. Abstract of Expenditures made by Joseph Elgar , Commissioner of Public Buildings, on the Centre Building of the Capitol, for the year 1834. * * * RECAPITULATION". Superintendence and labor 67,385 24 Materials 26, 293 05 Incidental Expenses 2, 342 64 Errors excepted : 96, 020 93 Washington, January 1st, 1825. J. Elgar, Commissioner Public Buildings. Note — Of the above, the sum of $84,332 99 has been expended subsequent to the appropriation of the 2d of April, 1824. J. E. 268 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House proceedings of Feb. 1, 1825: Register of Debates, 18 — 2, v. 1, p. 410.] GENERAL APPROPRIATION BILL. The House then passed to the unfinished business of yesterday, which was the bill making appropriations for the support of Government for the year 1825. On that section of the bill which makes appropriation for the public buildings in Washington City, Mi-. Cocke, of Tenn., moved an amendment, which went to pro- vide that no part of the sum appropriated, should be applied to pay the sum offered by the Commissioner of the Public Buildings for a design to ornament the tympanum of the Portico of the Capitol. On this amendment some conversation arose between the chairman of the Com- mittee of Ways and Means and the member from Tennessee. It was stated, on one hand, that the offer made by the Commissioner was done in consequence of the advice and direction of the Executive; that it was in coincidence with the course pursued on other similar cases; that the ornament for the Capitol was fit and neces- sary ; and the reward calculated to call forth taste and genius in preparing it, &c. On the other hand, it was contended that the providing of this design was a part of the duty of the architect, who receives a salary for his services — that, the offer was unauthorized on the part of the Commissioner, and unnecessary. The amendment, however, was at length withdrawn by the mover. [From the “Act making appropriations for the support of government, for the year one thousand eight hundred and twenty-five,” approved Feb. 25, 1825. (Stats, at Large, v. 4, 90.)] For the public buildings in Washington City, for the year one thousand eight hundred and twenty-five, eighty thousand dollars. [House of Representatives. 19th Congress, 1st session. Rep. No. 11.] ALTERATIONS IN THE HALL. December 29, 1825. — Read, and ordered to lie on the table. Mr. M’Duffie, from the Select Committee appointed on the subject, made the following report: The Select Committee raised for the purpose of inquiring into the practicability of improving this Hall, beg leave to report, in part, by recommending the House to adopt the following resolutions: 1st. Resolved, That, for the purpose of experiment, it is expedient that a tempo- rary floor be constructed in this Hall, on a horizontal plane at the elevation of the bottom of the pillars. 2d. Resolved, That, for the like purpose, it is expedient that a temporary seat be erected for the Speaker, immediately in front of the present entrance, leaving suffi- cient space in the rear for the members to enter; and that the seats of the members be arranged in lines fronting the Speaker. 3d. Resolved, That, for the like purpose, it is expedient that a partition be erected immediately in the rear of the line of columns near the Speaker’s chair, and raised to the elevation of twelve feet. 4th. Resolved, That the expense of these experiments be defrayed from the con- tingent fund of this House. The Old Building. 269 [House proceedings of Feb. 6, 1826: Register of Debates, 19 — 1, v. 2, pt. 1, p. 1306.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS -CAPITOL, &C. Mr. Campbell said, he should be glad if the Chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means would state to the House the particulars making up the sum of one hun- dred thousand dollars, which the bill proposes to appropriate for the Public Build- ings for this year. Mr. McLane, rising to give the required explanation, took occasion to suggest to the House the propriety of taking this matter wholly out of the jurisdiction of the Committee of Ways and Means. It had, heretofore, always been confided to the Committee on the Public Buildings, and he was satisfied that it was proper that it should be placed in the hands of such a committee. The items composing the pro- posed appropriation, had been furnished in detail by the Superintendent of the Public Buildings — and he read them from a table which he held in his hand, as fol- lows: “For erecting ‘offices ’ to each end of the Capitol, eighty thousand dollars; but, as they cannot be completed in one season, it is proposed to ask for this object, at present, the sum of $50, 000 For completing the portico and steps 18, 970 Deduct balance of last year’s appropriation 5, 494 13,476 For area wall and railing to West front 20, 000 For repairs of Library and alterations for greater security 3, 000 For sculptor’s and carver’s work in the Rotunto and Pediment, and for paint- ing and gilding 11,250 For continuing the work on the ornament for a clock for the Senate 2, 000 For improving the Capitol Square, including a footway on the outside of the wall 6, 000.” This, Mr. McL. said, was all the information which it was in his power to afford in regard to this subject. Mr. Wickliffe said, he was opposed to commencing any addition to the Capitol, at least until the building was finished on its present plan. He therefore moved to strike out one hundred thousand and insert fifty thousand dollars, so as to leave no appropriation for the commencement of any new work. Mr. Bartlett said, there might be a propriety in continuing the whole of this subject over to a future day. The Committee on the Public Buildings had the sub- ject before it, and had called on the Architect for information respecting it. Mr. B. suggested the propriety of striking the whole appropi’iation out of this bill, leaving the subject for future consideration, that the project for ranges of offices, &c. might be deliberately examined and passed upon by the House. Mr. Wickliffe said, he had no objection to take the motion of the gentleman as his own. My object, said he, is to put our veto on the erection of additional buildings, believing the buildings already sufficiently extensive: for really, he said, to a stranger, there was already, from its being a perfect labyrinth, almost as much difficulty to get out of it as some find in getting in to this House. Mr. McLane said, he should cheerfully assent to any course the House might choose to take to relieve the Committee of Ways and Means from this subject. It did not belong to them, but ought to connect itself with the Committee on the Pub- lic Buildings; and the Committee of Ways and Means, finding it embraced in the estimates from the Treasury, had most reluctantly entered into the consideration of it. For his part, he should be glad the House would strike out the whole item, and incorporate whatever appropriation for this object might be thought expedient, in a separate bill. 270 Documentary History of the Capitol. The question to strike the whole appropriation for the Public Buildings out of this bill, was then determined in the affirmative. [Rep. No. 66, House of Representatives. 19th Congress, 1st session.] i A BRA R Y FI RE-PROOF. REPORT of the Library Committee of the House, on the subject of rendering the Library room fire-proof, February 6, 1826. The Committee of the House of Representatives on the Library, who were instructed, by a resolution of the House, of the 3d of January, to inquire into the expediency of rendering the library room fire-proof, have attended to that subject, and beg leave to report : That this part of the Capitol could not be rendered perfectly fire-proof, without being wholly rebuilt, from the f< mndations of the western front. The present walls of that, part of the building are not of a solidity to sustain an arched roof. The wooden alcoves might be removed, and others of stone substituted, but the introduc- tion of such a quantity of stone, into the hall of the library, would probably' be pro- ductive of a dampness, very' injurious to the books. It would also be attended with great expense, as appears from the accompanying letter from the architect of the Capitol. It is supposed, that the danger of fire would be diminished, by removing the wooden parapet of the galleries, and substituting an iron-railing in its place. But as this would but partially preclude the possibility of fire; as it would be attended with considerable expense, and other inconvenience; and as the library' can, in the judgment of the Committee, be made sufficiently safe, by proper care of the lights and fires; the Committee do not deem it expedient that the House should adopt any measure in the premises. They', therefore, recommend the passage of the following Resolution: — Resolved, That the Library' Committee of the House of Representatives be dis- charged from the farther consideration of a Resolution of the House, of the 3d of January last, on the subject of causing the library room to be made fire-proof. February 3d, 1826. Sir: In compliance with the direction of the Committee of the Library, communi- cated to me, I have taken measures to ascertain what mode could be adopted, for rendering the library fire-proof. The floor of this room is wholly of brick, constructed upon arches, and is incom- bustible. The arched ceiling is framed of wood, thickly plaistered with a hard coat of mortar and stucco; no change could be made in this part, as the walls could not sustain the strain and pressure of a brick arch of so great a span. The alcoves are of wood, with brick partitions: this wood work might be removed, and stone and iron substituted, at the following expense: Free stone, 432 tons, at §9 $ 3, 888 Work on do. plain face, 11,542.6 feet at 35 cts 4, 039 87J Do. on sunk mouldings, 2,302, 100 2,302 Setting the above, including iron and lead 2, 557 25 Carving 12 pilaster capitals, at 40 , 480 Do. 4 do. with returns, at 60 - 240 Do. 4 half pilasters, 20 . 80 * Do. 40 trusses 20 800 Brick work in arches and backing, 21,750, at 13 282 75 Iron railing to the galleries, and repairs of ceiling and painting 4, 000 $ 18, 669 87 £ The Old Building. 271 But it is a subject which deserves consideration, whether such a mass of stone would not be injurious, and in a few years ruinous to the books, from the conden- sation of moisture, from the atmosphere upon free stone. This might be prevented in winter, by fires constantly kept in the room, but would prevail in all changes of weather of spring and summer. From an apprehension of damage from this cause, to valuable books, I have observed, in all the large public libraries, which I have had the opportunity of seeing, that no other material than wood is used near the books. This is the. case at the British Museum, and at the Bodleian Library in England, at the Royal and National Library of Paris, and at the Vatican at Rome; and, in sev- eral instances, the books are shut up in wooden cases. In reply to the other part of your communication, I am of opinion, that the dan- ger of fire might be considerably diminished, by taking away the part of wood work, that forms the parapet of the galleries, and by putting an iron railing in its place; and by paving the gallery floor with brick. The amount of these alterations, with the expenses attending the repairs of the Library room, would be $4000, which sum is inserted in the estimates, for continu- ing the works at the Capitol, the ensuing year. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, Charles Bulfinch, Architect of Capitol of United States. Hon. Edward Everett, Chairman of the Library Committee of the House. [Rep. No. 122. House of Representatives. 19th Congress, 1st session. March 17, 1826.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. Mr. Van Rensselaer, from the Select Committee, to which was referred, on the third of January last, the subject of “Finishing and furnishing the Public Build- ings,” made the following report : The Committee, appointed under a Resolution of the House, of the third of Janu- ary, “To inquire what measures it may be proper for Congress to adopt, at this time, to cause the Public Buildings to be finished and furnished,” beg leave to report: That they have had the subject of the above named resolution under careful con- sideration. In order to assist their inquiries, the Committee, at their first meeting, addressed a series of questions to the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, of which a copy accompanies this report, (A.) In answer to these interrogatories, the Com- mittee have received several communications and estimates from the commissioner and the architect of the Capitol. * * * The part of their instructions which has required most of the attention of the Committee, has been that, which refers to the finishing of the Capitol. In addition to completing the Eastern Portico, the small interior courts, and some other work on the interior, as specified in the estimates of the architect, some objectsof consider- able consequence remain to be provided for. A proper place for the deposite of wood is deemed necessary, for the reasons stated in the communication of the architect, marked (I. ) To provide for this object, for the privies, fora guard room and engine house, and other necessary offices, the Committee have directed numerous plans to be submitted to them, and the same are now respectfully submitted to the House. As considerable objections exist to the erection of wings, the Committee have, after great deliberation, determined to recommend, to the adoption of the House, plan No. 2. This plan provides for the erection of a broad area wall, on the western front, contrived so as to form a terrace, with arches beneath for wood. This plan will have the great advantage of masking the basement story of the western front, which was rendered necessary by the declivity of the ground, and was required for 272 Documentary History of the Capitol. committee rooms, but which is at present a serious blemish on a building, otherwise among the first in the world. The construction of this wall will restore it to the rules of taste, at the same time that the main objects of convenience will be attained. In most of the plans submitted to the Committee by the architect, provision was made for stable room and stalls for the horses and carriages, employed in the service of Congress by the messengers anil officers of the two Houses. The Committee, after much consideration, have determined not to recommend an appropriation for these objects, as appurtenant to the Capitol. The proper care and supervision of the Capitol and Square will probably require the establishment of the office of a permanent superintendent, and a bill for that purpose has already been reported in the Senate. Should such an office be created, the convenience of the public service will probably require the erection of a dwelling house, for his accom- modation, in the immediate vicinity of the Capitol, and connected with such a dwel- ling house, the Committee apprehend that provision can be made for the necessary stabling, more advantageously than in any other place. The paper marked ( K) contains, in the first, part, estimates of the work to be done, for the most part, immediately upon the Capitol, during the year 1826. These esti- mates are arranged in five articles; the first, second, third, and fifth articles are approved by the Committee, and recommended to be sanctioned by the House. In the fourth article, the Committee recommend to appropriate $3,500, instead of 6000, for sculptors; and to omit the appropriation of $2000 “ for continuing the work on a design for a clock for the Senate Chamber.” The Senate having heretofore made provision for this object from its own contingent fund, the Committee deem it respectful to that body to leave the subject entirely in their hands. For the fourth item of the estimates, on paper K, the Committee accordingly recommend an appro- priation of $8,748.75, instead of $13,248.75, reducing the sum total of that part of the estimate from 838,586.78, to $34,086.75. For the various objects already specified and requiring to be provided for, the Committee, after much consideration, have adopted and determined to recommend to the House, that which is designated, in the second part of the paper (K,) as plan No. 2. The entire expense of carrying this plan into execution will be $99,242.71. But, as it will be impossible to execute the whole of it in one season, the Committee recommend an appropriation towards the execution of this plan of $65,914, making with the appropriations already recommended for work to be done on and about the Capitol, in the year 1826, the sum of $100,000. The situation to which the Public Buildings are now brought, having rendered the period of their entire completion a matter of certain calculation, the Committee directed the architect to inform them what time would be required, and what expense would be further necessary, to carry into execution all that still remained to be done. The estimated expense, as appears by the postscript of the letter marked (I,) is $130,000, in addition to the appropriation of 100,000, which is asked for the service of this year; and the Committee are gratified to be able to add that the whole work remaining to be done may be executed in the year 1827. The paper marked (L, ) relates to the purchase of Hose for the Engine connected with the Public Buildings, and the Committee recommend an appropriation of $300, for that object. In conformity with the foregoing recommendations the Committee report a Bill. I. Letter from the Architect to the Chairman of the Committee. Sik: In compliance with the request of the Committee for finishing the Public Buildings, which has been handed to me by the Commissioner of Public Buildings, The Did Building. 273 I have considered the various modes in which the out-buildings and appendages, necessary and indispensable to the completion of the Capitol, could be arranged; and have prepared four distinct ground plans, with explanatory elevations and estimates. In making all these plans, I have considered it proper to provide suitable places of deposite for the large quanities of fuel annually consumed, amounting to about 400 cords. This supply of wood has hitherto been stowed in the vaults forming the cellars of the North and South wings. It may perhaps be thought that these vaults, being formed of very massy walls and arches of brick, are safe from any hazard of fire; and hitherto no accident has occurred. But it must be considered that these cellars are divided and subdivided by walls in a very intricate arrangement, rendered more so by the additional walls built to accommodate the changes in the form of the halls above, upon the re-building of the edifice; that no light can be admitted from windows to extend into the vaults; and that, in consequence, all the wood must be stowed away by the light of lanthorns, and that every attendant on the fires of the public halls, of the court room, of the library, and of the numerous committee rooms, must use lights of some kind, either lamps or lanthorns, for getting the daily supply of fuel. Under these circumstances, I respectfully suggest, whether it would be prudent to continue to deposite the fuel in such situations, which may be rendered more dangerous by the neglect or carelesness of any one of the attendants. The confinement of heat and dense smoke, in the intricate passages, would render it very difficult to extinguish fire among the w’ood in the vaults. It cannot be determined to What degree they might be affected by fire, but if it should burst one of the arches, the consequences to the building above might be fatal; and the freestone walls, Avhich have already been weakened, would be calcined wherever the flames should reach. In addition to the offices w r hich are indispensable, and will occur to every one, it is found that an engine house and a guard house will be wanted, and stabling on each of the wings, for horses used by the messengers; to these I have added some covered carriage houses for the convenience of members who use their own carriages or horses, and wish to shelter them in bad weather. In two of the plans offered, I have proposed to mask the basement story of the Western projection, by building a wall at a suitable distance to admit light to the committee rooms; and to form a ter- race and glacis of earth, which would raise the appearance of the hill, and give the building a uniform level in every direction; and would restore it to the generally received rules of proportion in Europe. This basement story became necessary, in constructing the centre of the Capitol, from its original position on the declivity of a hill, and advantage was taken of it, to convert it into committee rooms, which are convenient and much wanted. With respect to that part of your communication, which asks for a statement of all the work necessary to complete the Capitol and its appendages, with estimates for the same, I find it difficult at present to give a precise answer. The finish of the ground, &c. will depend in a great measure on the plans adopted for the coming season. But I will enumerate the following, as what now r occurs: An iron railing from the wings of the Capitol, North and South, to the boundary wall. The same along the whole line, to enclose the grounds Easterly. A pavement along these railings for persons on foot, and a suitable smooth and har'd finishing of the carriage way. Iron gates, with stone piers, on four sides of the square, to the garden, with two porter’s lodges. A flight of stone steps on the West side, to rise to the level of the building, and a general graduation and improvement of the ground. All these accompaniments must be in a style to accord with the mass and impor- tance of the building. I would also suggest, that as the stairs to the Bepresentatives’ H. Rep. 616 18 274 Documentary History of the Capitol . Hall are much worn and must soon be replaced, I would propose to alter the posi- tion of the stains, to give more room and light to the entrance of the Hall, which is now very confined and dark. I also mention that four panels in the Rotundo will be vacant, after the paintings on hand shall be put up, and that it may be advisable that measures should be taken to obtain additional paintings on national subjects, to fill the space. Respectfully presented by Charles Bulfinch, Architect of Capitol U. S. Hon 8. Van Rensselaer, Chairman of the Committee for finishing and furnishing the Public Buildings. P. S. The Committee having expressed their earnest wish to be informed of the time when all these objects could be effected, and a general amount of the probable cost, I have no hesitation in saying, that, if proper measures are taken to procure materials in season, the work on the building and its appendages and grounds, may be completed in the year 1827; and am of opinion, that an appropriation of §130,000, in addition to what is asked for this year, will be sufficient for all the objects enumerated. 1 K. I. Estimate for the work on the Capitol in 1826. EAST PORTICO. 1. To finish the same, with steps in front and to the entrances, North and South, per particular statement handed in §18, 769 82 Deduct balance on hand last year 5, 494 00 §13, 275 82 IMPROVEMENTS INSIDE. 2. Finishing doors of Rotundo 100 00 Stoves for passages, and Rotundo 500 00 Three iron grated doors, each 1043 lbs. at 20 cts 625 SO Repairs of Library 1,500 00 Finishing 4 courts, stone steps, paving, &c 1, 446 41 4, 172 21 EXTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS. 3. Paving the foot-walk round Capitol square, extending 3225 feet, at §1 16 3, 741 00 Graduating and improving the grounds 2, 259 00 6 , 000 00 SCULPTORS, CARVING, AND PAINTING. 4. For Sculptors •. 6,000 00. Carvers 4, 150 00 Painting walls of Rotundo, 1700 yards, at 25 455 00 Gilding and finishing 4 picture frames 600 00 Glazing 350 squares in lower Rotundo, at 121- 43 75 For continuing the work on a design for a Clock for the Senate Chamber 2,000 00 13, 248 75 The Old Building. 275 MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSES. 5. Four Carpenters for 6 months, at 1 20 per day $720 00 6 Labourers for do. at 80 720 00 Horse and Cart for removing rubbish 450 00 $1, 890 00 $38, 586 78 II. Statement of various modes of building the external Offices, at the Capitol. By Flan No. 1. A building 140 feet long on the north $40, 955 84 Another of same dimensions south 40, 955 84 81,911 68 Cost of area wall and glacis of earth 16, 588 00 Steps and arches in the centre 21, 021 71 37, 607 71 Rough stone foundations to platforms on the North and South, 230 perches, at 3 690 00 Balustrade, or iron railing 1, 600 00 2, 290 00 $121,819 39 By Plan No. 2. Cost of Area, to include vaults for fuel under the terrace, and necessaries in the Area 62, 152 71 Platforms North and South, as above 2, 290 00 Carpenter’s work, and materials, centres, Ac 800 00 4 Lodges at North and South entrances, containing Engine-house, Guard-house, and Porter’s houses, with piers to Carriage-way, at 7,000 dollars each 28, 000 00 2 Flights of steps from platforms to area 6, 000 00 37, 090 00 $99,242 71 By Plan No. 3. Two buildings, of a crescent form, to include Stables, Engine-house, Guard -house, and Carriage -houses, each 22,684 51 Another of same dimensions 22, 684 51 - — : 45,369 02 Arches for wood under platforms, North and South, with Colonnade leading to Necessaries; and stairs from the ground to the top 33, 698 80 Another of same size 33, 698 80 7 67, 397 60 Four flights of steps from the platforms 12, 000 00 Removing and placing 3000 cubic yards earth 300 00 12, 300 00 $125, 066 62 Documentary History of tlie Capitol. 27 6 By Plan No. 4- An Area wall, concealed by a bank of earth, or glacis of turf, with arches under the terrace, to contain 200 cords of wood on each side; with Stables, Engine-house, and Guard-house; Necessaries in the Area yard. A plat- form on the North and South, bounded by a Balustrade, or iron railing, per particular estimates $89, 629 71 The above are respectfully presented, by ^ Charles Bulfinch, Architect of Capitol of U. S. March 6, 1826. Hon. Stephen Van Rensselaer, Chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings. * * [Senate proceedings of May 2, 1826: Register of Debates, 19-1, v. 2, pt. 1, p. 665.] Mr. Randolph then rose, and said: I rose yesterday to give notice which I had not power to do, of a motion that I should submit to the Senate this morning. Some weeks ago I gave notice that, unless some abler member, having more influence, both de facto and de jure, in this body, should take the thing into consideration and move in the business, that I would bring forward a motion to raise a committee on the accommodation of this body generally. I then went into detail on the different sub- jects, which I shall not go into now, but content myself with observing that we have here — I will not say what is not to be found any where else in Washington — splendor without comfort, without neatness, without accommodation. I respectfully submit this resolution to the Senate, hoping that it will be acted on now, as I gave notice so long ago, that I would bring it up if nobody else did; and as I attempted to give notice yesterday that I would call it up this morning. I have made it as broad as possible, that the committee may take the whole subject into their consideration and report at large. I wish it to be distinctly understood that the resolution which is made thus broad, does not only relate to the regulation of this chamber, but to the other subjects which I indicated on a former occasion, soon after we came out of Executive business, when there was no one in the gallery; which I was very glad of. Resolved, That a committee be appointed, to consist of three members, who shall take into consideration the present arrangement of the Senate Chamber, and report such provisions as they shall deem requisite for promoting the accommodation of the Senate, and the convenience and order of its proceedings. The resolution was agreed to, and Messrs. Randolph, Lloyd, and Benton, were chosen the committee. [Senate proceedings of May 18, 1826: Register of Debates, 19-1, v. 2, pt. 1, p. 754.] Mr. Randolph, from the Select Committee appointed to take into consideration the present arrangement of the Senate Chamber, and report such provisions as they shall deem requisite for the accommodation of the Senate, and the order of its pro- ceedings, made a report, accompanied by the following resolutions: Resolved , That dollars be appropriated, out of any moneys in the Treasury, not otherwise appropriated, to the construction, under the direction and control of the Vice President, or President of the Senate, of suitable and convenient accommo- dation for the use of the Senate, and that a proper officer be appointed to attend and take charge of the same. The Old Building. 277 Resolved, That an estimate of the expense thereof be laid before the Senate at their next session. Resolved, That no person be admitted, as of right, to the floor of the Senate, except members of the House of Representatives, ex-members of both Houses, the Piesi- dent, Heads of Departments, and Judges of the Supreme and inferior Courts of the United States, unless introduced by the Vice President, who shall issue his written order therefor. Resolved, That the officers of the House be responsible to the Vice President, or President of the Senate', for the discharge of their respective duties; and that, with the exception of the Secretary, they be summarily removed from office for any neglect of duty. Resolved, That the room be arranged under the direction of the Vice President, or President of the Senate, so as to enable him to keep order more effectually in the lobby and in the gallery; and that dollars be appropriated for that object, out of any moneys in the Treasury, not otherwise appropriated, to be expended under the direction of the Vice President, or President of the Senate. Mr. Randolph moved the immediate consideration of the resolutions; but, as they embraced an appropriation of money, by the rules they required three readings. They were accordingly twice read, but the third reading requiring unanimous con- sent, and it being objected to, they were not read the third time this day [House proceedings of May 17, 1826; Register of Debates, 19-1, v. 2, pt. 2, p. 2654.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. On motion of Mr. Everett, the House went into Committee of the IVhole, Mr. Lathrop in the chair, on the bill making appropriation for completing and furnishing the Public Buildings. -x- * -x- After some further conversation between Messrs. Forsyth, Everett, and Bartlett, this item was agreed to, and the House took up the next, viz: “ For continuing the work on the Capitol, the sum of one hundred thousand dollars.” Mr. Everett went into a full explanation of this item in the bill. It proposed no new building, but only the erection of a strong wall around the basement story of the Western front, at such a distance as to enclose an area, which was to be arched over, and covered with earth and sods. This would answer the double purpose of hiding a defect universally complained of in that front of the Capitol — (a defect not chargable on the present architect, but arising from the position of the building on the brow of a hill) — and, also, of furnishing a convenient repository for the great quantity of wood which is, by the present usage, kept in the cellars of the Capitol itself, to the manifest danger of that building. Mr. Beecher and Mr. Forsyth made inquiries to ascertain whether this appropria- tion was to be the last for the completion of the Capitol and grounds, or whether it was to be a beginning of further appropriations. Mr. Everett stated, that it would be neither the one nor the other, but was about half of the whole sum requisite. An additional appropriation would be needed for the next year, of about $137,000. That would cover every expense required to finish the Capitol itself, with the grounds and gates around it, and the wholeplan could be completed by the close of the year 1827. Mr. Ingham did not rise to oppose the appropriation, but said that he had noticed, on the walls of the Rotundo, certain carvings in stone; and among them, the com- mencement of a design which he understood to be intended to represent the treaty made by William Penn. He was persuaded that no person could cast his eye on the 278 Documentary 11 /‘story of the Capitol. figure intended for that great and venerable person, and not turn away in disgust. To see a character so eminent for the principles of peace, and so distinguished by his opposition to every thing in the shape of military employment, portrayed as him- self, wearing a sort of military uniform, with a large cocked hat upon his head, could produce nothing but surprise and disgust. He had always heard and read that Wil- liam Penn was a portly figure, with rather a commanding and dignified appearance; but the figure here sculptured was a dwarf, and his appearance more ludicrous than any thing else. Nor could any descendant of the Pilgrims look on the female figure in another compartment of the same room, and be told it was meant to represent one of those who landed at Plymouth, and not feel an emotion of indignation. He wished to know if these pieces of sclupture were to be left in their present state, or were to be removed? Mr. Everett agreed in the opinion expressed by the gentleman from Pennsylvania as to these pieces of carving — lie was as much mortified as that gentleman at their appearance, and would be as glad to get rid of them — but, poor as they would be, he thought that, if finished, they would not present so great a blemish as if left in their present situation. He made some farther explanations; when Mr. Whittlesey moved to strike out $100,000 and insert $38,586 78, which sum he saw reported as sufficient to complete the Capitol upon the present plan. He thought the Western front needed no concealment, but was decidedly the hansomest front presented by this building. He thought no serious danger could arise from keeping fuel in the vaults of the building. Mr. Mall ary expressed an opinion as to the Western front, directly the reverse of that given by Mr. Whittlesey, and defended the necessity and propriety of appro- priations to beautify the public buildings. Mr. Cook adverted to the late fire in the Library, as shewing the danger to which a single candle might expose the building. Mr. Whittlesey asked if the danger of the Library could be obviated by finishing the Western front? Mr. Mercer insisted on the value of the proposed improvement, as going to give additional strength to a part of the Capitol, which, from its situation, was found to require it. The position of so large a building on the very brow of a hill, produced an unequal pressure on its foundations, and had a tendency to cause the building to split asunder; some indications of which might already be perceived over some of the windows. It was a fact that the key-stone in one of the arches had dropped as much as a quarter of an inch. An arch, springing from a terrace wall, which wall was sup- ported by an embankment, must aid very much in strengthening that side of the building. Mr. Stevenson, of Pennsylvania, said he regretted that, at the end of the session, the House should have got into a grave debate about a wood house. He agreed with the gentleman from Ohio, that the present building ought to be finished, but that no new erection should be commenced. He then went into a calculation, from the com- mittee’s report, to shew that this wood-house was to cost $192,000. If it was danger- ous to have a large quantity of wood in the cellars, there might be a repository in the neighborhood — there was room enough out of doors. Nor could there be any great want of committee rooms; for he perceived that some of the rooms were appropriated for eating and drinking. Mr. Everett complained of the unfairness of this representation. The application of the area to the keeping of wood, was only incidental. The sum of $192,000 was not to build a wood-house, but to complete the Capitol; to put up gates; to build the steps up the slope, and finish the grounds round about it; nor was there any proposal to build new committee rooms. Mr. Bartlett further explained the necessity of the proposed wall and area; referred to the danger from such a mass of wood beneath the Capitol; and ludi- crously described a tour of examination which he had made through the vaults.. The Old Building. 279 Mr. Stevenson replied to Mr. Everett, disclaiming all intention of turning the subject into ridicule, or treating the committee with disrespect. Some further explanations were then made by Mr. Everett — when The question was taken on the amendment of Mr. Whittlesey, and decided in the negative; ayes 57, noes 69. [From the “Act making appropriations for the public buildings in Washington, and for other pur- poses,” approved May 22, 1826. (Stats, at Large, v. 4, 194.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That the following sums be, and the same are hereby, respect- ively appropriated, to be paid out of any money in [the] treasury not otherwise appropriated, for the following purposes; thatistosay: * * * for continuing the work on the Capitol, the sum of one hundred thousand dollars. [Doc. No. 6. 19th Congress, 2d session. Executive. Public buildings. Message from the President of the United States, transmitting the annual statement of the Commissioner of the Public Build- ings, of the expenditure on the same, and of the progress of the said buildings, Dec. 8, 1826. — Bead, and referred to the Committee on the Expenditures on the Public Buildings.] To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United Stales. Washington, 8th December, 1826. In compliance with a Resolution of the Senate of the 28th January, 1818, I trans- mit a Report of the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, containing the annual statement of Expenditures on those buildings, and the account of their progress, required by the said Resolution. John Quincy Adams. < Washington, December 7th, 1826. To the President of the United States: Sir: The progress of the work on the Capitol, during the present season, has not fully equalled our expectations. The principal part of it consisted of offices and appendages, not embraced by the original design, in relation to which, no provision could be made until sanctioned by an appropriation. That act was among the latest of the last session; and subsequent to its passage, bills were to make out for the material, which was then in the quarry. A section of the work has, however, been carried up, and materials provided, and in a course of preparation, for the remainder. The East front, and its massy approach, have been finished, with the exception of the ornamental figures, which are advancing as rapidly as their due execution will permit. The library has been restored. The injury it had sustained was found to be much more extensive than had been anticipated. The adhesion of the stucco, and the plastering of the dome, was so far destroyed that its entire removal became necessary. Some progress has been made in regulating the ground, and in extend- ing the footways round it. The work suffered a severe loss by the accidental death of Mr. Blagden, which happened earl}’ in the season. Possessing in a high degree the science, and practical knowledge of his profession, he had conducted in its most important branch, the construction of the Capitol, almost from its commencement, with a precision, and fidelity, which he carried into all the relations of life. * * * The Expenditures on these objects, and others, have been as follows: Capitol and grounds, $70,045 03. I have the honor to remain, with great respect, your most obedient servant, J. Elgar, Commissioner of Public Buildings. 280 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House proceedings of Jan. 15, 1827: Register of Debates, 19-2, y. 3, p. 714.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. Mr. Miner moved the following resolution: Resolved, That the Committee on the Public Buildings be instructed to inquire and report a statement to this House, shewing the time at which the public buildings were commenced in this city; the amount of money that has been expended on them in each year, designating the expenditures on each building, separately; what sums have been paid for improving the grounds adjoining the President’s House, and the sums for improving the grounds adjoining the Capitol. And also, that the commit- the procure and lay before this House, a statement and estimates of the work contem- plated to be done to finish the public buildings, and complete the improvement of the grounds adjoining the same, and, with as much precision as possible, the time when the whole will be completed. And, that the committee inquire into the expediency of accelerating the work by the employment of additional laborers, or by such other means as they may judge proper. Mr. Miner said, he hoped the gentlemen composing the Committee on the Public Buildings would not think he was trespassing upon their precincts, or that the reso- lution implied a doubt of their proper attention to the duties assigned them. He had perfect confidence in the committee, but he wished through them to obtain some information, that he thought would be useful; and more especially it was his wish to attract the attention of the House distinctly to the subject of the public buildings. It is now more than thirty years since they were commenced — near three millions of dollars has been expended on them. I have been said Mr. M., an occasional visiter to Washington City for twenty years past, and at all times have I witnessed the same confusion about the Capitol — the same rolling of huge stones, and the same din of workmen. Is this never to cease? He thought the buildings should be finished in the same elegant style in which they were begun: but he thought it was high time they were finished. Solomon’s Temple was but seven years in building; these build- ings had been in the hands of the workmen more than seven and twenty years. Mr. M. said, he was not disposed to withhold liberal appropriations for the benefit of the District; but it seemed sellish to lav out so much for our own accommodation and so little to other objects. The citizens of Georgetown wanted aid to build a bridge: we could not afford to aid them; all our appropriations must be laid out on the public buildings. If rightly informed, more than 80,000 dollars had been expended on the lot on which the Capitol was erected — a handsome fence was built around it, but all the rest was a scene of desolation. The President’s garden was, and always had been, a scene of confusion — to him it seemed as if the same cartmen, who were there ten years ago, were still employed hauling dirt from one part of the enclosure to the other — there was none of the elegance, the repose, and the beauty, which there should be in the garden of a private gentleman. Last year it was proposed to take down the wall around the President’s House, to rebuild it on a different plan — the work was like Penelope’s web; what was done at one time was undone at another, and never finished. We have made the Cumberland road for several hundred miles. It was a free road, and had his approbation; but said Mr. M., a citizen of Alexandria cannot visit the City of Washington without two or three demands on his purse by way of toll for travelling the roads within the District. He thought this was wrong. He thought these buildings and grounds should be completed, and that we should turn our attention to other objects, and to improving other parts of the District. With the view of bringing the moral power of the House, the power of its opinion, to bear on the subject, he had called its attention to the matter, and introduced the resolution. The Old Building. 281 Mr. Cocke said, that it was in vain for the gentleman to expect to attain the object in view so long as those who are engaged in the superintendence of these public works are permitted to present, every session, new plans and new estimates, for extending and altering them. The matter would never be brought to a close, so long as this House held out to these persons, that we want them to devise ways and means for spending more of the public money. They would never fail to respond to such an intimation. He therefore suggested to the honorable mover so to modify his reso- lution as to cut off all farther plans. Mr. Miner said he meant to censure no one. He did not think the duties imposed by the resolution would prove so onerous as were imagined, as a table existed con- taining the principal part of the information. But he wished the whole spread before the members, that it might make its proper impression. Mr. Everett was not disposed to oppose the resolution, but thought that that part of it which directed the committee to report all the sums heretofore appropriated for this object, could answer no purpose but a mere gratification of curiosity, and would, at the same time, impose upon the committee a laborious investigation of documents extending for twenty-seven years, or, indeed, from the foundation of the city. He could not see the practical advantage of such a retrospect. Here the buildings are, nor will it aid at all the completion of them to discover, by this investigation, what has been expended on them in years past; and he would take the liberty of suggest- ing that gentlemen ought to take a somewhat liberal view of this subject. He had no wish to shelter from blame any persons on whom it ought to rest; but gentlemen should recollect the time at which the bill making appropriations for carrying on the public buildings, passed this House. It was at so late a period that no orders for stone could be sent to the quarries till after the 22d of May. The stone had then to be quarried and shipped, so that great delay was unavoidable, in the progress'of the work. At the present session, the bill must necessarily be passed in good season, if at all, as the session must terminate on the 4th of March. He was not desirous of opposing the call which the gentleman desired, but thought it required from the com- mittee a pretty onerous task, and one which, when performed, would be attended with little actual benefit. Mr. Miner replied, that the duty would not be so onerous as the gentleman from Massachusetts seemed to suppose; if he was not misinformed, the committee could, in half an hour, lay their hand on a full statement of all the expenditures down, at least, as far as 1803. In bringing forward this resolution he had had no intention of implying censure on any one; but he desired to attract the attention of the House to the subject, in the hope that its moral power might be brought to bear upon it. The information sought, would, he felt persuaded, be acceptable to all the members. Mr. Bartlett observed, that no estimates were made, unless in obedience to a reso- lution of the House. The Committee on the Public Buildings had, last session, directed the Superintendent to cause the Architect to prepare an estimate, for the entire completion of the whole plan. Hitherto appropriations for these buildings had been in broken sums, for the several objects respectively. But last year, in obedience to the requirement of the committee, the Architect had furnished those plans, which the House had seen. They embraced the whole of the additions con- templated to be made, some of which had been approved, and others rejected by the committee; and the appropriation had been specific in its character, providing for so much of the approved objects as could be accomplished within the year. The obtaining of a detailed history of all that had been done and expended in the prog- ress of the public buildings, and the grounds around them, could not, he should think, be material. Mr. Miner said, since he had heard the views of the gentlemen on the subject, he would consent that the resolution should for the present lie upon the table. It was ordered to lie on the table accordingly. 282 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House of Representatives. Rep. No. 75. 19th Congress, 2rl Session, Feb. 7, 1827.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. Mr. Van Rensselaer, from the Committee on the Public Buildings, to which was referred so much of the President’s Message as relates to the progress of the Public Buildings, made the following report: The Committee on the Public Buildings, to whom was referred so much of the President’s Message, of December 8th, as relates to the progress of the Public Build- ings, have had that subject under consideration, and beg leave to report, as follows: That, at the last session of Congress, the Committee of the Public Buildings expressed the opinion to the House, that all which remains to be done towards com- pleting the Public Buildings, might be accomplished during the years 1826 and 1827. The late period at which the appropriation bill was passed occasioned a loss of nearly three months of that season of the year best adapted to out-doors work, and a corre- sponding delay in finishing what remains to be done upon the Capitol, and its enclosures. Aware of the inconvenience resulting to Congress from protracting the work, and of the general desire felt that it should be brought to a close, the com- mittee directed their first attention to the inquiry, what measures could be adopted to secure its completion during the year 1827. The obstacles, they learned, would con- sist in the difficulty of procuring, within a limited time, a sufficient quantity of the harder kind of free stone, which would be needed, and in the scarcity of stone- cutters. Further inquiry has removed the first obstacle, and information has been received that a sufficient quantity of stone can be procured from the quarry. In compliance with the urgent recommendations of the committee, the Commissioner of the Public Buildings has exerted himself to remove the second difficulty, and all practicable measures will be pursued by him to increase the number of stone-cutters, to such an extent as that the work remaining to be done maybe finished the present year. The principal work required to be done is the completion of the area-wall, on the Western front, already commenced; a flight of steps on the Western front; platforms on the South and North wings; a railing to connect the South and North wings with the enclosure of the Capitol Square; a railing to separate the garden, on the Eastern front, from the carriage-road to the Capitol steps; and the gates at the various entrances. These constructions, with the graduation of the ground within the limits of the Capitol square, constitute about all which remains to be done, in immediate connection with the Capitol. The estimates of the cost of this work will be found in papers marked A and B. No part of it can be dispensed with, and the committee have adopted the simplest plan, and the lowest estimate, viz: Design No. 3, in paper B, striking out the item of 81,000 for guardhouse and jrolice office. In their report of last year, the Committee on the Public Buildings thus expressed themselves: “In most of the plans submitted to the Committee by the Architect, provision was made for stable room and stalls for horses and carriages employed in the service of Congress, by the messengers and officers of the two Houses. The com- mittee, after much consideration, have determined not to recommend an appropria- tion for these objects, as appurtenant to the Capitol. The proper care and supervi- sion of the Capitol and Square will probably require the establishment of the office of a permanent superintendent, and a bill for that purpose has already been reported to the Senate. Should such an office be created, the convenience of the public ser- vice will probably require the erection of a dwelling house for his accommodation, in the immediate vicinity of the Capitol, and, connected with such a dwelling house, the committee apprehend that provision can be made for the necessary stabling, more conveniently than any where else.” The Old Building. 283 The time has now arrived when it is necessary to make a provision of some kind for this object. The space now occupied by the temporary buildings, hitherto used for the purpose of stabling, must be taken into the permanent plan of graduating and enclosing the grounds. Some provision, it is supposed, must also be made for the accommodation of Members of Congress, and others, having business at the Capitol, who come thither on horseback, or in their own carriages. It is also necessary to erect a permanent engine house. Various plans for these, and some kindred pur- poses, were last year submitted by the Architect to the Committee on Public Build- ings. All these plans contemplated the erection of the buildings in question, within the Capitol square. The committee, however, then felt, and still feel, an invincible reluctance to the obstruction of the square with buildings for the purposes above- mentioned, and, indeed, to the commencement of new and costly buildings of stone for any purpose. Adopting the idea suggested in the Report of last Winter, that accommodations would be wanted for the officer or officers who might be charged with the general superintendence of the Capitol and Square, and that convenient provision might, at the same time, be made for stabling, and engine house, the com- mittee directed plans and estimates to be submitted to them, of suitable buildings for the purposes aforesaid, to be erected on two spots of ground, the proj^ertv of the public, immediately adjacent to the Capitol, on North and South Capitol Streets, respectively, and extremely well suited, as is believed, to furnish the accommoda- tion required, at the smallest possible expense. The estimate will be found in the paper marked C. * * * To meet the expense of miscellaneous repairs in the Capitol, a small sum is requested by the architect, and §500 is recommended by the committee for that purpose. In conclusion, the committee beg leave to observe, that they have done every thing, within their competency, to ensure the completion of the Public Buildings during the present year. They hope the House will not be disappointed in the result; but they deem it necessary to remark, that, in so great a quantity of work as must be effected — all requiring to be executed in the most perfect manner — the most zealous efforts of all concerned are not sure to bring within a previously estimated limit of time, the completion of the whole enterprise. The following appropriations, (as explained by the foregoing statement,) are recommended by the committee: For work to be done per estimate A §104, 789 05 Deduct the item of engine house, guard house, and two por- ter’s lodges (not recommended by the committee,) 28,000 00 Deduct the item of picture-frames, (not recommended, ) 1,200 00 29,200 00 75, 589 05 For work to be done, as per estimate B 9, 125 00 Piers and gates 11, 094 00 Two buildings of brick for stables, engine house, keeper’s house, &c. culverts and fence 16,216 00 Repairs 500 00 Repairs and improvements at the War and Navy Departments 1, 495 35 Fire apparatus 1, 227 00 115, 246 40 Balance of last year’s appropriation 25, 545 00 §89,701 40 284 Documentary History of the Capitol. A. The following estimate was first furnished, by the Architect, of the expense of continuing the work on the Capitol for the year 1827 * * * $104,789 05 Remaining of last year’s appropriation 29,955 Deduct paid for 490 tons of stone since the Commissioner’s report, at $9 4, 410 25, 545 00 Respectfully presented by January 11, 1827. $79, 244 05 Charles Bulfinch, Arch’t of Cap. * * * C. Estimate of buildings, for keeper's house, stabling, and engine house. I estimate the buildings on the enlarged plan, at $7, 000 A bell of 250 lbs. at 100 Expense of freight and fixtures 30 Culvert 350 ft. at $1 75 r. 612 1,220 ft. rail fence round two triangles, at 30 cts 366 $8, 108 The same on the North side. Respectfully presented, Charles Bulfinch. February 5th, 1827. * * * [Doc. No. 93. 19th Congress, 2d session. Ho. of Reps. State Dept. Improvement in Hall of House of Representatives. Letter from the Secretary of State, transmitting a report of the board of inspec- tion, appointed 19th of May last, in relation to improvements of the Hall of the House of Repre- sentatives, U. S. &e. &c., Feb. 12, 1827. Referred to the Committee on the Public Buildings.] Washington, 9th February, 1827. I have the honor to transmit, herewith, to be laid before the House of Repre- sentatives, a report from the Board of Inspection, appointed by a resolution of the House, of the 19th May last, in respect to improvements in the Representatives’ Hall, so as to make it better suited to the purposes of a deliberative assembly, together with several documents referred to and made a part of this report. I have the honor to be, with high respect, Your obedient servant, H. Clay. The Hon. John W. Taylor, Speaker of the House of Representatives. The House of Representatives having, on the 19th May, 1826, resolved, “That the Clerk of this House be authorized to employ William Strickland, of Philadelphia, to act in conjunction with the architect now employed in completing the Capitol, in devising The Old Building. 285 a plan for improving the Hall, so far as to render it better suited to the purposes of a deliberative assembly: That the Secretary of State, the Secretary of War, and the Attorney General, be requested to act as a Board of Inspection, on the aforesaid contemplated improvement, during the recess of Congress; and that, if the said archi- tects can devise any plan for accomplishing the object, that shall receive the sanction of the Board aforesaid, they be authorized to execute the same, under the direction of the said Board. Resolved, that the expenses be defrayed out of the contingent fund;” The undersigned, constituting the Board of Inspection appointed by the said resolution, have the honor to report : That shortly after the termination of the last session of Congress, the Clerk of the House communicated to Mr. William Strickland the substance of the resolution, and requested his attendance at Washington, to co-operate in the accomplishment of its object: that it was not convenient to Mr. Strickland to attend until some time in July, when, in the absence of the undersigned and the Clerk, he visited the city, and examined the Hall of the House, in company with Mr. Bulfinch: That the Clerk, on the 28th August last, addressed a letter to Mr. Strickland, (of which a copy accompanies the report, marked A,) to which he received an answer, under date the 12th September last, of which the paper marked B, is a copy: That the undersigned being desirous to be present in the Hall with Messrs. Strickland and Bulfinch, when they examined it, requested the Clerk to ask the attendance of the former again at Washington, and, accordingly, he came here in October last, as early as he could consistently with other engagements: That the undersigned were present when those gentlemen inspected the Hall, and discussed various plans of improvement which were suggested: that Mr. Strickland’s opinion as to the most effectual improvement will be seen in his report to the Board, under date the 31st of October last, hereto annexed, marked C, and that of Mr. Bulfinch in his report under date the 1st November last, also hereto annexed, marked D: That, from the perusal of those reports it will appear that both the architects concur in opinion, that the only effectual remedies of the defects complained of in the Hall, are, 1st. to suspend a flat ceiling of lath and plaster over the whole arena of the Hall within the columns, and upon a level with the stone cornice or springing line of the same; or, 2dly. To break up the existing smooth surface of the dome, by deeply sunk caissons, in the manner of the ceiling of the Senate Chamber and the Rotundo. Both the architects agree that the first mentioned plan would materially impair the symmetry and proportions of the Hall, and Mr. Bulfinch thinks it might injuriously diminish the cubic volume of air in the Hall. That it became altogether unnecessary for the undersigned to give their sanction to either of the two suggested plans, because the vacation between the last and the present session of the House was too short to admit of the execution of either, so as to have the Hull prepared in time for the accommodation of the House: that the long vacation which will en§ue, after the termination of the present session of Con- gress, will be sufficient to allow of the execution of either of them to which the House may think proper to give its sanction. That the undersigned suggested to the architects the propriety of testing the effi- cacy of the suspended ceiling, by stretching a covering of silk over the space which it was intended to occupy; but it was stated that the absorbent qualities of that, or of any cloth, are such as would prevent its being a fair experiment; and that it was also mentioned, that, in the year 1814, such a test, (though not with silken cloth,) was applied, and that the inconveniences which it occasioned induced the House quickly to direct its removal. All which is respectfully submitted. H. Clay, James Barbour, W m. Wirt. Washington, 8th February, 1827. 286 Documentary History of the Capitol. A. Washington, 28th August, 1826. Wm. Strickland, Esq. Philadelphia. Sir: I was disappointed in not finding you in Washington when I arrived, on the 3d July, having heard, in Carlisle, of your intended visit to Washington. From the conversation I have had with Mr. Bulfinch, I am led to believe, that you think that no alteration can be made in the Hall, which would be beneficial, except a flat ceiling of plaster. I write now, to ascertain whether you have made up your mind definitively; or, if you could not come down again to Washington, immediately after the 6th September, as Mr. Clay will then be at home. I wish you, very much, to see the Committee, as several expedients have been suggested; such as a flat, plas- tered ceiling; a glass ceiling; a glass cover, at the height of say thirty feet, supported by brass pillars, and rather concave, (taking down the galleries, and having the auditory on a level with the Hall,) raising the floor to the level of the walk behind the Speaker’s chair, making it either level, or rising, in the usual form, from front to rear. On all these different suggestions, I am certain, the Committee would be pleased to have your opinion, and would rather converse and explain, than write. Please to inform me how soon you could come down. Yours, most respectfully, M. St. Clair Clarke. Clerk Ho. of Reps. U. S. B. Philadelphia, Sejot. 12th, 1826. Matthew St. Clair Clarke, Esq. 1 Vashington. Sir: It will be out of my power to visit Washington during the present month. When I examined the Hall of Representatives, in July last, I came to the conclu- sion, that no alteration could be effectively made to correct the reverberation of the voice in that room, except by the removal of the dome: This may be properly done, by the construction of a flat ceiling, of lath and plaster, over the whole area, upon a level with the cornice of the room. For the sake of light, the glass lantern should be continued to the ceiling, and be made to occupy a much larger diameter than it now does. I am aware, however, that this plan would affect the proportions of the room; but these may be retained, in a great degree, by any skilful artist, who could, by painting the flat ceiling, represent a dome, nearly as perfect as the real one. The expedients you mention, as having been suggested, are all pbjectionable, and would have but a very partial effect, in removing the great cause of the resonance. The glass cover would be difficult and expensive to construct; and, when done, would form a very unsightly object: To the eye, the glass and its supports would distort the compartments of the dome, and produce a very disagreeable effect. In a few years it would become opake, and completely coated with dust. To take down the galaries, and have the auditory on a level with the floor of the Hall, would have the effect of increasing the difficulty of hearing, by opening a greater space through which the voice would be spent and broken, by the interven- tion of the semicircular screen of columns, which support the dome. To raise the floor to the level of the logia behind the Speaker’s chair, would be, in fact, simply equivalent to lowering the ceiling a few feet, which would only serve to make the echo, or return of the voice, more sudden upon the speaker, or hearer. While the great cause of the reverberation exists, viz. the dome, nothing short of its removal can be relied on, as a corrective to the present difficulty of speaking, and being heard. Yours, very respectfully, William Strickland, Arch, and Eng. The Old Building. 287 c. The Hon. Henry Clay. Chairman of the Committee to whom teas referred the alteration of the Halt of Representatives. Sir: I have the honor to communicate to you the result of an examination which I have made, not only to ascertain the extent of the difficulty of speaking and being heard in the Hall of Representatives, but also with a view to point out the best plan of diminishing the quantity of echo, or reverberation of sounds, which exists in some degree in this chamber. Without attempting to trouble you with a general application of the laws or doctrines of sound to the various forms of rooms, or particularly to the one under consideration, I will simply state my opinion of the cause of echo in the Hall, to be principally owing to the reflection of the voice from so large a portion of unbroken spherical surface contained in the ceiling of the dome. The effect has been invari- ably observed in all circular rooms having vaulted ceilings; and were the side walls of the Hall formed with a plain circular surface, like the ceiling, and not intercepted by the present screen of columns, the reverberation would be proportionably increased. The remedy which, in my opinion, can be successfully resorted to in this instance, is, to break up the plain surface of the dome by the introduction of numerous deeply sunken pannels bounded by raised stiles or margins. A practical illustration of the efficacy of this method, in preventing the echo of sounds, may be witnessed at any time in the Senate Chamber, a room which nearly corresponds in plan with the Hall of Representatives, except in the painted pannels of the dome, which in that of the Senate Chamber are real and profuse. One other, and a more effectual plan, may be had by the suspension of a flat ceil- ing of lath and plaster over the whole arena of the Hall within the columns, and upon a level with the stone cornice, or springing line of the dome; but I hesitate in recommending its adoption, convinced as I am that the construction of a level ceiling would materially injure the symmetry and proportions of the room, and that no sin- gle item of supportable inconvenience should be redressed in this manner, by the expense of so much architectural harmony and beauty. I would, however, beg leave, Sir, to suggest to you the propriety of trying the effect of opening the dome by a series of large pannels, with small, but proportionably raised margins or stiles, as the only resource left, to render the room suitable for the pur- poses of legislation, v'ithout injury to its well proportioned features. Very respectfully submitted by your obedient servant, William Strickland. Washington, October 31, 1826. D. To the Honorable the Secretary of State, Secretary of War, and Attorney General: The subscriber, present Architect of the Capitol of the United States, respectfully presents the following report: On the 19th of May last, the House of Representatives passed a resolution “that the Clerk of the House be authorized to employ Mr. William Strickland, of Phila- delphia to act in conjunction with the Architect now employed in completing the Capitol, in devising a plan for improving this Hall, so as to render it better suited to the purposes of a deliberative assembly.” Upon invitation from the Clerk of the House, made in pursuance of the above resolution, Mr. Strickland visited the city on the 1st of .July last, when, in company with the subscriber, he examined the plan and construction of the Hall, when the difficulties that had been complained of were pointed out to him. Not being able to remain in the city longer than one day at 288 Documentary History of the Capitol. that time, Mr. Strickland promised to take the subject into consideration, and to communicate the result, which he did in his letter of September 12th. He also, on a repetition of the invitation, again visited the city on the 21st October. At this time, the subscriber laid before Mr. Strickland the original plans and sec- tions of the Hall, with copies of all the investigations of the various Committees who, in different years, had been appointed to consider the subject, and the several reports of the Architect made to such Committees, containing suggestions of altera- tions, and reasonings thereon; also various papers from other scientific men, whom the committees had been able to consult. Mr. Strickland remained several days, and examined all these papers fully, and formed a report of his opinion, as given in his letter addressed to the Secretary of State. In this report Mr. Strickland agrees with the report of the Architect, made in 1822, that the only effectual remedy against the reverberation of sounds would be aflat ceiling; he expresses his preference that it should be made solid and permanent, with painted or stucco ornaments; but, as such a ceiling would reduce, perhaps injuriously, the cubic volume of airintheroom, and impair the beauty of its form and proportion, he suggests the breaking of the present smooth painted surface of the dome into deeply sunk caissons, in the manner of the ceiling of the Senate Chamber and of the Rotundo. In addition to this report, it was agreed that it would be of advantage to fill solidly under the floor of the cir- cular space outside of the bar of the Hall. The proposals fully agree with the opinion of the Architect, as expressed in former reports. Any thing would be of use that would check the tendency of the smooth sur- face of the dome to return sounds, either by reflecting or conducting them too sud- denly, and thereby prevent the present resonnances. In this way a beneficial effect may be expected from sinking deep coffers or caissons; but it is. much to be feared that it would not be so material an assistance as to afford a complete remedy of the difficulty of hearing and speaking. Respectfully presented, by your obedient servant. ' Charles Bulfinch. Washington, Nov. 1 , 1826. [House proceedings of Feb. 23, 1827: Register of Debates. 19-2. v. 3. p. 1364.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The House, on motion of Mr. Everett, resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole, on the state of the Union, Mr. Cocke in the Chair, and took up the bill making appropriations for the Public Buildings. The bill was read, as follows: Be it enacted, A-c. That the following sums be, and the same are hereby, respectively appropriated, to be paid out of any money in the Treasury, not otherwise appropriated, for the following purposes; that is to say: For completing the rvork remaining to be done on and about the Capitol, the Capitol Square, and its enclosures, and for buildings for keepers, engine house, and stabling, the sum of eighty -six thousand four hundred and seventy-nine dollars five cents; for repairs on the Capitol, the sum of five hundred dollars; for repairs and improvements at the War and Navy Departments, the sum of one thousand four hundred and ninety-five dollars .and thirty-five cents; for additional fire apparatus, the sum of one thousand tv o hundred and twenty-seven dollars. * * * Mr. Campbell referred to some of the estimates, on which he asked fpr informa-, tion. He thought that the wall which is now in the progress of erection, instead of being useful or ornamental, will be the reverse. He objected to. the appropriation of six hundred dollars for stoves to warm the rotundo. He also thought the appro- priation of twelve hundred dollars, for a railing to protect the pictures, ought not to be made. If persons wished to injure them, they could cross the railing. There was an appropriation of ten thousand dollars for two brick buildings, for engine house, The Old Building. 289 keeper’s house, &c. He contended that we should not pursue this extravagant expenditure, which had been heretofore useless. He would submit an amendment to reduce the appropriation for stabling for horses, and buildings for carriages. He thought the accommodations for the horses of messengers, and for carriages, also, for them, was too great. It might be necessary for them to have a Dearborn to go to the Post Office and the Printer’s. Mr. C. concluded by moving to take 30,000 dol- lars from the amount appropriated in the bill. Mr. Everett explained, that the appropriation of last, year was stated, and under- stood to be, only in part, embracing as much of the work as could be done last year. It was then stated, that a further sum of one hundred and fifty thousand dollars would be required for this year. The Committee reduced this sum to eighty-six thousand four hundred and seventy-nine dollars and five cents: so that nearly 70,000 dollars less are asked for this year, than was proposed last year. He then replied to the objections stated by the gentleman from Ohio, and explained the character of the Avork for which the appropriation is asked. He stated that the original plan, if carried into effect, would cause a door to be made into the room now occupied by the Columbian Institute. It Avould be necessary to do this, although he regretted such necessity. He did not Avish to divide the room., He proposed that the entrance on this side should be into a spacious A'estibule. He reminded the Committee that he Avas not the advocate of the wall which is noAV in the process of erection. He had desired a different plan, which Avas rejected by the House. The Architect then presented the present plan, Avhich the Committee thought the best. The ground of its adoption Avas, that it would conceal the defect in this part. There was no remedying, owing to the original vice in the building, its situation, but to mask the loAA r er story. The situation would be proper for a barn and a stable; but not for such a building as the Capitol. He informed the Committee that the appear- ance of the Avail will be different from AA r hat it now is. It had been objected that the Avail would cover too much, taking in part of the second story. He had taken pains to examine, and was satisfied of the inaccuracy of this apprehension. The effect of this wall at a distance, will be to make the building appear to be near the declivity of a natural hill, instead of being on it. It Avas the opinion of gentlemen of taste and science that the effect will be beautiful. The gentleman had objected to the appropriation for stoA'es. They are intended for the passages more than. the rotundo; and he put it to the gentleman, if there Avas not a danger in passing abruptly from this warm room to those long, cold passages. There is an air of discomfort about this building, which reminded him more of the Bastile than any other building he was ever in. The rotundo is cold, and it appears to be a desirable object to render it more warm and comfortable. The railing to guard the pictures Avas suggested, both by the artist and the architect, as necessary. The artist had found an individual striking at the picture with a stick; and, on being asked why he did so, he said he was endeavoring to find out if it Avas painted on the stone. To guard against such danger to the paintings, the railing was proposed. It Avas intended to make it, so as to exclude the approach near enough to injure the pictures. As to the brick buildings to which the gentleman referred, the reasons which induced the Committee to recommend them will be found in the report. He stated that the Committee had opposed every proposition for new buildings and unneces- sary expenditures. These buildings Avere recommended from motives of economy. As to the number of messengers, the gentleman could speak to this fact as Avell as himself. There are four employed to each House to fold. There is a vehicle employed in carrying the mail. He belieA r ed that the messengers Avere diligently employed, and the stabling is no more than is necessary for the four horses, and for the horses which may belong to those who have business with Congress. H. Rep. 646 19 290 Documentary History of the Capitol. He hoped the original appropriations would stand. The Committee had studied economy on every point; and impressed its necessity on the Architect. When it was considered how much easier it is to suggest retrenchments, than to show their propriety, lie hoped the amendment would not be agreed to. Mr. Campbell made some further remarks. He was certainly not acquainted with the plan; although he was apprenticed to a joiner and house-carpenter, he did not comprehend it sufficiently. No doubt the gentleman from Massachusetts had made himself acquainted with the subject. If the stoves are necessary for the passages and rotundo, the sum required he thought to be sufficient. He thought the princi- ple of building houses for the keepers was wrong. If we pay them salaries they should find their own houses. What may be considered economy in Massachusetts, would be considered extravagance in Ohio. He thought four thousand dollars would build a good keeper’s house, and two thousand dollars would build stables. He would not find accommodations for members’ horses. Mr. Wickliffe observed that he was decidedly opposed to any appropriation, which had for its object the commencement of new buildings, appendant to the Capitol. We have now a mass of buildings covering more than an acre of ground, and before we have finished them we are called upon to appropriate money to commence new apartments. The root of the whole evil, the cause of the immense expenditure and waste of public money, upon this Colossal Labyrinth, may be traced to the fact that we have some four or five gentlemen who are drawing an annual salary from the public Treasury, whose interest it is, and whose ingenuity is tasked, between the end and commencement of Congress, to project some new scheme or fancied improvement upon which to expend the public money. These salaries will continue until you finish this building; they will never finish it, as long as you will furnish them money to waste upon it. Unless Congress will check the appropriations, the finishing of the Capitol, like the payment of the public debt, will always be “anticipated.” It is a curious fact, sir, [said Mr. W.] I occasionally meet, in my District, old men who worked upon this building in their youth, who are utterly astonished to learn that the Capitol is still unfinished. Why is it that this nation, with all its resources, has been unable to finish this house in a period of thirty years? The question is solved by a reference to your Architect’s and Superintendent’s salaries. At the last Session of Congress we had projected, by this ingenious architect of ours, some new and splendid additions to this House, which he was pleased to style “ External Offices,” estimated to cost only about $20,000. An appropriation for this purpose found its way, somewhat strangely, into our annual appropriation bill, and, upon my motion, it was, by a very large vote, stricken out. At the end of the Session, (as is unfortunately too often the case with all bills making appropriations of money) the Committee on Public Buildings presented us with a bill asking for an appropria- tion to commence this wall, this hoop, in the West front, which was recommended to the House as necessary for wood-houses, stables, &q. Indeed, the gentleman from Virginia, whom I now have in my eye, [Mr. Mercer] with great earnestness pressed the appropriation, upon the ground that this wall was necessary to give strength to the House; he said that the Capitol having its location upon the edge or side of a hill, it was seriously apprehended that the West front would yield to the unequal pressure of the rest of the building. Gentlemen may now ascertain, without much speculation, what degree of strength ~ this semi-circle gives the Capitol. * * * I then entertained the opinion that I now do, that it was an useless waste of public money, and voted against the passage of the bill. There was not time for the House then to examine into the nature of this improvement. You have built a wall in front of the House, and now we are called upon to appropriate $21,000 to erect steps to get over it so as to get into the Capitol. I would freely vote a sum sufficient to tear it down. We are, also, called upon to appropriate, by this bill, 16,000 to build stables and The Old Building. 291 carriage houses for the use of the horses and carriages of our messengers, and our honorable selves too. At what jiioint will we stop? When yon build the stables, we will then find it necessary — quite necessary, to purchase provender, at public expense, to feed pur horses. I put it to gentlemen to say, if it is right to waste (I call it downright waste) 16,000 dollars to build stables for any such purpose. But, sir, this is not all. We are called upon to appropriate money to procure stoves, &c. to heat the immense rotunda for the purpose of making it a more com- fortable resort for loungers and idlers; I presume it cannot be necessary for the better conducting the business of this House. You w ant a house built at public expense for a Superintendent of this Capitol (which you propose to appoint, with a fixed salary) to live in. Create the office, with the salary you propose, and I will guaranty at least one hundred applicants for the office, who will furnish their own house. I hope the motion to strike out will prevail. Mr. Fobsyth w'as in favor of the appropriation tp finish the work begun the last year on the brow’ of the hill. He would vote, also, for the erection of stoves to warm the rotundo and the passages — places through which members must go to reach their Committee Rooms, when the House is not in session, and which were now damp, uncomfortable, and unhealthy. He was opposed, however, to the plan of erecting a circular railing in that rotundo. He could not suppose it necessary, for the protec- tion of the pictures now there, or which might hereafter be placed there — a notice to all visitors, being at the doors or on the wall, not to touch the pictures, would, he was satisfied, be sufficient to protect them from all injury. Mr. F. said he had been for man} 7 years an anxious and curious spectator of the progress of the public build- ings. Since the conflagration of 1814, vast sums had been, indeed, expended, yet much had been done. In the re-edification of the building, various changes had been made, some of which, especially those in this Hall, w 7 ere not in his judgment, advan- tageous or correct, had necessarily increased the cost of the work. The period seemed to be approaching, when there would be an end of it. If abuses had been com- mitted — and he was quite satisfied there had been many — they might be traced, not to the improvidence of. our appropriations, but to the extravagance of the expenditure of the sums appropriated. Instead of scrutinising the sums appropriated, we should employ ourselves more usefully in scrutinising the accounts rendered, guarding against extravagant contracts for labor and materials, encouraging diligent and economical agents, and punishing, by dismission from our employment, those w ho were profligate or wasteful. The gentleman from Kentucky [Mr. Wickliffe] had pointed to one fruitful source of unnecessary expense. Our agents are salaried officers, whose emoluments cease w’hen the buildings are finished. We bribe them, therefore, to make the work interminable. No doubt, persons so situated will tax their ingenu- ity to devise plans for additions, recommended by convenience and taste. But these cannot be made without our approbation, after being carefully considered by our Com- mittee. Every proposition foi* additional expenditure ought to be carefully sifted, and with the recollection that it is made by those who have an interest in multiplying the objects of expense. Mr. F. did not mean to insinuate that it was practicable to avoid all imposition, or that the system of paying salaries necessarily produced abuse. He was directing the attention of the Committee to the only and the proper means of guarding against abuse — means in the power of the House, and which ought to be, if they had not been, used. Mr. F. said he looked with great anxiety to the period in when this building shall be finished — when it shall be placed under the care of some person who shall be responsible to us for the uses to which every part of it shall be devoted. At present, this Hall is under the care of the Speaker, and the officers of the House; the Senate Chamber of the Vice President and officers of the Senate; but the residue, excepting the Library and Committee Rooms, is considered the common property of every person who chooses to occupy it, with very little regard to the purposes for which it is used. Mr. F. 292 Documentary History of the Capitol. would not attempt to particularise — it was not necessary. No gentleman could walk through the Capitol, Avithout seeing objects of disgust. Those who have been residents of the city for three or four Winters past could not have forgot- ten the strange uses to which the rotunda had been applied. It became first a great show-shop, for the exhibition of Panoramas; Avhere gentleman could have, for half a dollar a head, a view of the city of Paris, from the top of the Thuilleries, with the Palace Garden under his feet; the Facade of the Lux- embourg, the Garden rambles, the Hall of Legislation, the Churches, the river Seine, the Pont Neuf, &c. &c. Then came the A r iew of the Garden of Versailles, Avith its alleys and fountains, and the Emperor Alexander walking in state, and, by Avay of contrast, an American gentleman leaning in state. Mr. F. said he never passed the panoramic circle without being so forcibly reminded of a song AA'hich had attracted his fancy when a school boy, that he expected to hear it ringing in his ears: If to see my show you’r Avilling, Give me von leetle English shilling: Quickly come, for I must go, Avith my doodle doodle doo. The only change necessary to make the song strictly appropriate, Avas to name the higher price — half a dollar instead of a shilling. Mr. F. had inquired who had licensed these exhibitions, and the answer Avas, as is usual in such cases, nobody did it. Mr. F. believes that the late Vice President, and the late Speaker of the House, as lovers of the fine arts, had been applied to for permission, but both disclaimed jurisdiction’ over the premises. No doubt both treated the OAvner of the paintings, a most amiable and accomplished artist, Avith great kindness, as he deserved. Having no authority to permit, they did not forbid, and so the thing Avas done; and all the world, Avho chose to sport their half dollars, came to see the shoAV. To members of Congress, it Avas particularly convenient to pass, in the twinkling of an eye, from the dull debate to the centre of gay Paris and attractive Versailles. The room was next converted into a great exhibition hall for domestic manufactures. In order to estab- lish the superiority of our domestic fabrics, they Avere collected, at least choice speci- mens of them, in the A'ast space; and, in order to give the domestic articles a decided preference, all foreign articles Avere carefully excluded. There Avas a rare show, indeed, of articles of first necessity, essential to our independence: triangles of steel, to be struck by careful and musical houseAvives, in place of ringing A'ulgar bells for their servants — stoves and stew-pans — pianos, on AA'hich the initiated young ladies played for the gratification of the gaping throng — mouse traps and Avatch ribbons. An exhibition only Avas advertised, but all the articles Avere carefully marked with prices, and sundry good bargains Avere driven by the domestic manufacturers and the spectators. Mr. F. met a friend who had just purchased a Avatch ribbon. He boasted of the goodness of his bargain — it Avas ready cut to his hand, and he gave for it sixty- two and a half cents. This led to a proposal in the newspapers, addressed to members of Congress, by some lover of his country. During the visit of our A'eteran General, our friend, the friend of mankind, Lafayette, some one proposed to the members of Congress to give him a great ball in the rotundo. This scheme, aimed at our pockets, did not take. We gave a dinner, not a ball; thank Heaven the rotundo Avas not the banquetting room. Mr. F. Avas not sure that the dinner Avas more agreeable than a ball would have been to our honored guest. As a true son of France and chivalry, he, no doubt, loved best those associations from Avhich that sex Avhich adorns all society, and gives to it its highest enjoyments, is not excluded. But as Ave members are mostly in the Avorst of all ages, the middle age of man, eating AA'as preferred to dancing, and the ball did not take. Mr. F. AA'as not disposed to censure, especially, the proposition to dance in the rotundo; it Avould have been quite as proper and innocent, and as defensible as the previous uses made of the same place. In fact, a great deal could have been said The Old Building. 293 in its favor. The music would have sounded merrily under the splendid vault; and what a charming space for belles and beaux to thread the mazes of the cotillion, and to twine together the magic circles of the seducing waltz! No treading upon toes or tearing of frills to be apprehended. Although the dancing proposal was not adopted, the rotundo has ever since been devoted to the purposes of exhibition. Has any body a picture to exhibit, it is hung up on the wall; has any one a model of a machine to show, it is spread out on the floor; and whether for shelling corn, peeling apples, or cutting up snags and sawyers in the Mississippi, it is duly set in motion for the instruction of the curious. Mr. F. loved the line arts, and derived the usual pleasure from paintings and statuary. He was gratified and amused by curious specimens of mechanical ingenuity, and, in their proper place, he thought the public exhibition of them highly useful — he wished to be understood as confin- ing his censure to the exhibition of them in the building, originally, and still designed, for nobler purposes. He saw, with pleasure, the time approaching, when this whole pile would be finished, and placed under the care of some one who would be respon- sible to the public and to Congress, if any part of it should be devoted to unworthy or unsuitable purposes. Mr. Bartlett animadverted, with some severity, on the remarks of Mr. Wickliffe, and stated the course which had been pursued by the Committee on the Public Buildings, in reducing the estimates and expediting the fulfilment of what remained of the plan. Mr. Wickliffe replied to some statements, by Mr. Bartlett, of the history of last year’s appropriations. The bill, said he, which I referred to in my former remarks, passed without much discussion, just before our adjournment, without that full infor- mation which was necessary. Did any gentleman, (save the Committee on Public Buildings) at the last session, dream of the erection of this wall in such a manner, as to require the sum of twenty one thousand dollars to build steps to get over it, and that you were to break through the v r all a new' door, and spoil one of the best rooms in the Capitol, when they voted for the bill? I am certain I did not, though opposed to its passage. If you pass this appropriation (though I am neither a prophet, nor the son of a prophet) I will venture to predict that our good Architect, before the work is done, will have some new improvement recommended, either for its sup- posed necessity, or its great taste. We will finish our Capitol when we terminate his salary, and not before. Mr. Burges made some general remarks and criticisms on the plan and appearance of the Building, the effect of the wall and embankment intended to mask the foun- dation story of the West front. He made some ludicrous remarks on the sculpture of William Penn, whose cocked hat it had taken a whole season to alter: and whose full-bottomed wig contained many more curls than Mr. B. had ever seen on the head of any other Christian. He opposed the appropriation for the steps of the West front, the stables, houses, &c. Mr. Verplanck, after some general criticisms on the architecture of the Capitol, the genius of L’ Enfant and Latrobe, and the very singular features by which their design was characterized, concluded that there was nothing better to be done than to com- plete the plan in consistency with what had already been done. He, the artist, being a foreigner, and better acquainted with court and military costume, than the Christian, and having no authorities to consult, in utter despair he hew r ed off the hat of William Penn, and put on another. It appears that he has again gone wrong. He should regret to have the room of the Columbian Institute, which was useful for political as well as scientific purposes, broken into, but he knew of no better mode than is laid down by the present plan. He should vote, therefore, for the appro- priation. After a few words, in reply, by Mr. Everett. Mr. Dwight moved to reduce the appropriation, by omitting the iron railing pro- posed to be placed in the Rotundo, before the pictures. The 01 d Building. 295 unfinished work on the Capitol, its approaches and dependencies; and estimates were furnished of the probable expense of completing the same. These having been submitted to the committee, they expressed their resolution to have the work exe- cuted with all possible despatch, and directed special exertions to be made for col- lecting materials, and obtaining an additional number of workmen. These views of the committee received the sanction of Congress, and, in consequence, at the open- ing of the season, materials were procured, and efforts made to obtain the number of workmen required; but, notwithstanding the encouragement offered, only a small addition could be made of such as were effective and serviceable. In proceeding upon the work, attention was directed to such parts as were most essential, and which would produce a general approach towards the completion of the building, and regulation of the grounds. * * * Considerable progress has been made in the sculpture in the panel over the prin- cipal east door of the Rotundo, and in the tympanum of the pediment of the portico; and the whole of the work of the portico has been painted, where it was not encum- bered with scaffolds. A house has been built to accommodate the fire-engine; and apparatus, furnished by order of Congress; and every convenience is provided for the use of the fire com- pany, to make effectual their services, which are voluntary and gratuitous. A bell of sufficient size is placed on the tower, to be used in necessary cases of alarm from fire. In the interior of the building, the sculptures of the Rotundo have been finished, and the walls painted. Two warm air-stoves, of the most powerful and improved construction, have been placed below, with apertures in the floor, for the admission of warm air, to correct the dampness of the Rotundo, the effect of which cannot, how- ever, be fully felt, until the opening in the centre shall be closed, either solidly or by a sky-light. The floor of the Representatives’ Hall has been taken up and relaid, after the space was filled solidly with bricks; this was done with a design to prevent the noise arising from walking, and to lessen the reverberation of sounds: the effect is found to be very advantageous. The alterations in the Senate Chamber have been effected, and a private stair, for the convenience of the members, has been contrived and executed in a temporary manner. The above is air abstract of all that could be effected during the past season, with the utmost diligence and attention of the superintendents and workmen. The fol- lowing remain to be done to bring the work on this great national edifice to a close: To finish three courts in the interior of the building; the piers, gates, and entrances on every side of the enclosure; a quantity of pavement at the west approach, and round the areas of the wood vaults; a flight of steps on each flank of the western terrace, the materials for which are provided. The building also requires a general painting and repair. I would suggest the necessity of renewing the stairs to the Representatives’ Hall, with the harder and much superior stone now used for such purposes; and the expediency of paving with flags the passages, now covered with tiles, which are much worn, and irregular. A gallery is also wanted in the Senate Chamber, to prevent the necessity of admitting strangers on the floor: A design for this purpose, will be offered for the consideration of the Senate. A general attention to the regulation and improvement of the grounds, will be required, and some accom- modation for necessary stabling, and the convenience of such police officers as may be appointed for the guard and security of the Capitol. All these objects may be effected in the ensuing season, with a moderate addition to the unexpended appro- priation of the past year. In closing this report, I ask leave to add, that the Rotundo cannot be considered complete, while the four large panels are suffered to remain vacant; and to suggest a hope, that measures may be taken to supply them with paintings, conformable to "the others, on great national subjects. In the mean time, frames might be made at Documentary History of the Capitol. 296 present with more economy than at any time after the workmen are discharged, and their appearance would give an air of finish to the room. I have taken the liberty to make this report a statement of the work executed, and of what remains to be done, that the whole might be exhibited in one view; which is respectfully presented by Charles Bulfinch, Architect of Capitol of United States. Joseph Elgar, Esq., Commissioner of Public Buildings. * * * [Doc. No. 180. House of Representatives. 20th Congress, 1st Session. To accompany hill No. 158 — appropriation public buildings. Estimates of appropriations necessary to complete the public buildings. February 11, 1828. — Accompanying bill (No. 158) making appropriations for the Public Buildings, and for other purposes.] February 1, 1828. ESTIMATE FOR WORK ON THE CAPITOL OF THE UNITED STATES FOR 1828. To finish 8 gate piers — stone on hand $1,440 00 To build 4 do. on east line of the square _ 2, 000 00 4 iron gates and railing to the square 2, 240 00 Two flights of steps on flanks of terrace — stone on hand 1, 095 80 Iron banisters to do 300 00 Cast iron railing and two gates 150 00 4 iron doors under the terrace 800 00 To finish four courts inside the building 1, 446 41 Stone flagging at west entrance and on the arches 4, 750 00 Brick paving in outside courts, round the areas 700 00 Four picture frames, complete, in Rotundo 1, 200 00 To close the opening in centre of Rotundo 404 00 Eight, octagon sashes in dome - 46 00 Warm air ducts over the openings in the floor 50 00 North and South entrances to the square, with a lodge or guard-house to each 9, 304 00 East entrance, with two lodges for porter and gardener 4, 116 00 Sculptors and Carvers . 3, 000 00 Work on grounds within the square 3, 000 00 Finishing iron railing 1, 500 00 Contingencies, superintending, &c 3, 000 00 Painting new w'ork 518 00 Four carpenters’ pay for six months - 720 00 Six laborers’ do do 720 00 Horse and cart for the year 450 00 $42, 950 21 REPAIRS. Taking up brick pavement in the basement story of the building, and flagging with stone 6, 297 56 Painting the old work generally 1, 500 00 Supply of glass wanted 300 00 8, 097 56 The Old Building. 297 NEW WORK. Private stairs to Senate vestibule 450 41 Iron banisters to do 150 00 Iron gallery to Senate Chamber, and stairs leading thereto 2, 045 50 New stairs and improvements at entrance of Hall of House of Representatives - 5, 000 00 Public grounds north of Capitol and Avenue brought into or- der and fenced - 3,000 00 10,645 00 61, 693 67 Deduct balance on hand 5, 600 49 Respectfully submitted. Joseph Elgar, Esq. Commissioner of Public Buildings. 56,093 18 Charles Buleinch, Architect of Capitol of United States. * * * February 7, 1828. Hon. S. Van Rensselaer. Sir: In reply to your inquiry respecting the expenditures on the Public Buildings, I beg leave to look back to a statement made by me, at the request of the Committee, in the session of 1826. I then enumerated all the unfinished parts of the Capitol, and stated, as the best opinion I could form, that the sum of 130,000 dollars, in addi- tion to the sum of 100,000 asked for at that time, would complete the Capitol and its dependencies. An appropriation was made, in 1826, of $100, 000 00 Another “ in 1827, of 83,985 00 I now ask, to complete the work 42, 950 21 $226, 935 21 which is about 3,000 dollars less than I stated, in 1826. With respect to the expenses of the past year exceeding the estimates, 1 can only state, as the cause, the extent, the massiness of the work; some uncertainty of the necessary depth of foundations, in earth that had been repeatedly moved; and increased price of stone, from our urgency to obtain a supply; and some extra work to op>en a private stairway to the Senate vestibule. But I beg leave to mention, that the whole sum asked for, of $42,950, should not be considered an excess over last year’s estimates; but the following should be deducted, being articles of improve- ment, now brought forward, and also the balance now in hand, viz: From amount of present estimate. : $42,950 21 Deduct 2 guard-houses proposed, north and south, each 1,560. . $3, 128 00 2 lodges, at the west, each 1,450 2, 900 00 Deduct an extra quantity of stone flagging 1, 500 00 picture frames 1, 200 00 to close openings in Rotundo 450 00 to finish iron railing 1,500 00 10,678 00 Balance on hand 5,600 49 16,278 49 26, 671 '72 298 Documentary History of the Capitol. This sum of $26,671 72, is the true amount of excess over the estimates of last year; and to account for, and apologize for this, I beg to refer you to the statement on the other side. Respectfully, your ob’t servant, Charles Bulfinch. [Senate procedings of April 17, 1.S28: Register of Debates, 20 — 1, v. 4, pt. 1, p. 663.] ARRANGEMENT OF SEATS. Mr. Smith, of South Carolina, moved to take up a resolution offered by him a few days since, in relation to changing the seats of the Senate Chamber. Mr. Van Buren suggested that the resolution had better be postponed to a later period of the session, as the alteration could not probably be made this year. Mr. Smith, of South Carolina, did not accede to the suggestion, and the resolution was considered. On the question of agreeing to the resolution, Mr. Smith, of South Carolina, went into a detailed statement of the inconveniences of the present situa- tion of the seats, and the impossibility of hearing the remarks of Senators. If it was not necessary to hear and be heard, the present plan might be retained; but if it was desirable to act understandingly on the business of the Senate, the former plan ought to be restored. In the few remarks made by the gentleman from Louisiana [Mr. Johnston] this morning, he, Mr. S., could hear but now and then a word. Mr. Branch opposed the change. Mr. Van Bcren said, that there might be inconvenience in the present arrange- ment, but the plan had not been adopted without good cause. He stated the incon- veniences of the former arrangement, and suggested that the better course would be to appoint a committee to consider and report what change ought to be made in the seats. Mr. Johnson, of Kentucky, opposed the change, remarking that his position under the present arrangement was far better than that which he had formerly occupied. If he voted for the proposition, he should give up his own convenience to oblige others. He thought it would be admitted that it was better for the President not to sit opposite the centre door, at which strangers were continually entering; and that he must have been inconvenienced by the talking of Senators in the lobby, behind his former seat, which could not but have interrupted business. He was willing to vote for referring this motion to a committee of three, who could report whether an alteration was expedient. Mr. Smith, of South Carolina, said, that the gentleman from New York seemed to think that there had not been sufficient experience of the present plan. He, Mr. S., recollected that, when the plan was changed, it was said that it could be tried, and, if it was not approved, it could be turned back. In the present position, neither the Chair nor the Secretary could be heard by more than half the members. Senators had also now got a habit of turning round from the Chair to address those behind them, and if they did not do it, they could not be heard by those so situated. As to the passage which it had been said had caused so much inconvenience to the Presi- dent, it could not be so annoying as to have the door slapping every moment close behind his chair. That passage had, since the change, become a thorougfare, and seemed to be looked upon as a great national road, where persons were continually passing; and he thought there would not be a hundredth part of the confusion there, if the President’s seat were restored, that there was at present. Mr. Smith, of Maryland, said, that when he addressed the Chair, he could not be heard by those behind him. He had, however, found out the other day that there was a secret in this matter. He observed that the Senator from Massachusetts [Mr. Webster] turned round and addressed those in the rear; and he had imitated the example, but found it very awkward, and that, he was obliged to turn to address the Chair occasionally. The arrangement was inconvenient, and it would be very desirable to change it. H. Rep. 646—58-2. EXTERIOR OF BULFINCH DOME. The Old Building. 299 Mr. Benton said a few words, but in an uncommonly low tone. He was under- stood to say that he was in favor of the present arrangement, because the Chair was better accommodated by it. The President said, that, as allusion had been made to the Chair, he desired that this question might be decided without regard to his convenience. It was true, that, as the seats were formerly arranged, the Chair had great difficulty in hearing the Senators whose seats were at the two extremities of the chamber; and that the talk- ing in the passage, behind the Chair, caused some disturbance and interruption of the business. Mr. Chandler supported the resolution. Mr. Johnston, of Louisiana, objected to the restoration of the former plan, although he admitted that there were inconveniences in the present arrangement. He hoped a committee would be appointed to consult upon, and report what change was requisite. Mr. Benton moved to lay the resolution on the table. Mr. Smith desired the question now to be put on agreeing to the resolution. A division being made, it was decided in the negative — ayes 20, noes 21. [House proceedings of Apr. 28, 1828: Register of Debates, 20 — 1, v. 4, pt. 2, p. 2506.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. On motion of Mr. Van Rensselaer, Chairman of the Committee on the Public Buildings, the House went into Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, Mr. Little in the Chair — and took up the bill making an appropriation for complet- ing the Public Buildings. * * * Mr. M’Lean, of Ohio, then moved to amend the bill, by striking out that part of it which went to provide for the erection of a house for a Superintendent, in the words following: “For building a house for the Superintendent of Public Buildings, §5000.” After some opposition on the part of Mr. Everett, this amendment was agreed to by the House. The item of fifty-nine thousand five hundred and tw'enty-eight dollars and eight cents, for completing the work remaining to be done on and about the Public Build- ings, as reported by the committee, being under consideration. Mr. Woods, of Ohio, inquired if it included the estimate for lodges and guard houses at the gates? Mr. Everett replied that it included two lodges at the Western gate, fronting the Pennsylvania Avenue, and also guard houses at the North and South gates. Mr. Woods then moved to reduce the sum to $53,500, so as to exclude both these objects. This motion was opposed by Messrs. Taylor, Everett, and Marvin, when Mr. Dwight moved to fix the sum at $56,400, so as to retain two lodges at the West- ern gate, fronting Pennsylvania Avenue, but dispense with the guard-houses at the Northern and Southern gates. After some discussion by Messrs. Mercer and Dwigh'e, Mr. Woods withdrew his motion, when Mr. Wickliffe moved to reduce the sum to $51,000, by excluding an appropriation of $5,000, to alter the stair-case leading to the Llouse of Representatives. The question was then taken, first on the sum proposed by the committee, and negatived. It was next put on $56,400, and the votes not making a quorum, Mr. Everett explained the necessity and advantage of substituting for the present 300 Documentary History of the Capitol. very confined and inconvenient stair-case, one which should come up with a circular sweep into the vestibule at present existing between the House of Representatives and the Rotundo. If this were done, the lobby without the Hall might he enlarged and enlightened, and persons having business with the Members would have a con- venient space in which to wait for them in the Hall, &c. The present stair case must, at all events, be taken down for repairing, and the steps replaced by a harder material. The addition of a few thousand dollars would secure a very great and desirable improvement in the access to the Hall. Mr. Mercer wished to understand whether this alteration would not prevent the completion, at a future day, of a plan he had long had at heart; which was, to remove the circular wall that now supports the Gallery, let down the Gallery to the base of the columns, give a rectangular form to the Hall, admit the light of two more win- dows at the sides and facilitate the ventilation of the apartment? To complete his plan, and reined}' the great defect as to hearing, it would then be requisite to throw a glass arch over the whole Hall, which, as he was assured by competent architects, might be done for less than §10,000. It was not his purpose to propose such an alteration now, but he wished to know whether the arrangements at present contem- plated would not interfere with such a plan. Mr. Everett explained, and shewed that the proposed alteration, so far from pre- venting, would greatly facilitate the execution of the project of the gentleman from Virginia, the leading features of which he entirely approved. The question on filling the blank with §56,400 was then taken, and agreed to. Mr. Wickliffe now renewed his motion for 51,000 dollars, but it having been op- posed, as not in order, he withdrew it, declaring his purpose again to renew it when the bill should come into the House. Mr. Everett now moved, (though not by instruction of the Committee) the follow- ing amendment: “For an entrance and door way into the Capitol, from the top of the terrace, on the Western front, §3,121 10.” He explained the propriety of such an alteration in the West front, as greatly increasing the convenience of all persons wishing to enter the Capitol on that side, and as being indispensible to the symmetry of that front of the building, which, in its present state, had no entrance but by a lower door, beneath the level of the terrace. Mr. Mitchell, of Tennessee, warmly opposed this amendment, as creating a useless expense. He inveighed against the appropriation which had already been expended in the construction of the terrace, and the wood vaults beneath it. He expressed his approbation of the plan suggested by Mr. Mercer, as pointing to an improvement of substantial utility; and concluded by urging a speedy payment of the public debt. The question was then taken on the amendment of Mr. Everett, and it was carried. Ayes 72, Hoes 36. * * * [Senate proceedings of May 1, 1828: Register of Debates, 20 — 1, y. 4, pt. 1, p. 728.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. On motion of Mr. Eaton, the bill making appropriations for public buildings was taken up. Mr. Dickerson moved to strike out that portion of the bill -which provided for the construction of a door in the western front of the Capitol, on a level with the terrace. Mr. Dickerson supported his motion with a few remarks, tending to show that no necessity existed for such an entrance, and that the appearance of the building would be injured by it. The Old Building. 301 Mr. Ridgley said a few words in opposition to the motion. Mr. Benton spoke at length against the motion, and assigned many reasons why the alteration ought to be made. He had last year opposed the project, on the sup- position that the wall of the building would be injured by it; but he had since formed a different opinion, and was convinced that the improvement might be safely made, and would be altogether eligible. Messrs. Dickerson and Macon further advocated the motion. Mr. Chambers observed that he had opposed this plan last year, but had since been convinced of its utility. He believed that the improvement would at some period be made, and that it would be economy to provide for its completion at the present time. The motion was then rejected. [From the “Act making appropriations for the public buildings, and for other purposes,” approved May 2, 1828. (Stats, at Large, v. 4, 265-6.)] For completing the work remaining to be done, on and about the Public Buildings, fifty-six thousand four hundred dollars and eight cents. For an entrance and doorway into the Capitol, from the top of the terrace on the western front, three thousand one hundred and twenty-one dollars and ten cents. [House proceedings of May 26, 1828: Register of Debates, 20 — 1, v, 4, pt. 2, p. 2768.] NATIONAL PAINTINGS. Mr. Everett submitted the following resolution. Resolved, That the Commissioner of the Public Buildings be, and he is hereby authorised to cause the proper measures to be taken to secure the paintings in the Rotunclo from the effects of dampness, under the direction of John Trumbull, and to allow the said John Trumbull a reasonable compensation for the same. Mr. Haynes moved to amend the resolution, by striking out that part of it which directed this work to be performed under the superintendence of Mr. Trumbull. After some conversation between Messrs. Everett Haynes, Weems, and S. Wood, on the propriety of employing an experienced artist in this operation, the amendment was rejected. Ayes 52, Noes 58. The resolution was then adopted. [From the report of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, communicated to the House Dee. 2, 1828. (20 — 2, House Doc. No. 2, p. 170.)] Washington, Nov. 29, 1828. To the President of the United States. Sir: I have the honor to report that the expenditures for the current year, on the public buildings in this city, have been, as far as is now ascertained, as follows: Capitol and grounds $59,020 09 * * * These buildings are now completed to the extent authorized by existing appropria- tions, with the exception of a small portion of paving in the corridors of the Capitol, the material for which could not be procured in due season, and the ornamenting the grounds around that building, necessarily a progressive work. * * * I have the honour to remain, with the highest respect, sir, your most ob’t • serv’t, I. Elgar. 302 Documentary History of the Capitol. [Doe. No. 10. 20th Congress, 2d session. House of Representatives. National paintings. Letter from John Trumbull to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, on the subject of the National Paintings in the Rotundo of the Capitol. Dec. 9, 1828 — Read, and laid upon the table.] To the Hon. the Speaker of the House of Reps. U. S. Sir: On the 30th of May last, I received from the Commissioner of the Public Buildings a copy of the resolution of the honorable the House of Representatives, dated the 26th of May, authorizing him to take the proper measures for securing the paintings in the Rotundo from the effect of dampness, under my direction. I had always regarded the perpetual admission of damp air into the Rotundo from the crypt below, as the great cause of the evil required to be remedied; and, of course, considered the effectual closing of the aperture which had been left in the centre of the floor as an indispensable part of remedy. I had communicated my opinions on this subject to the Chairman of the Committee on the Public Buildings, and had been informed that this had been ordered to be done. So soon, therefore, as I received information from the Commissioner that this work was completed, (as well as an alteration in the skylight, which I had suggested,) and that the workmen and incumbrances were removed out of the room, I came on, and proceeded to take the several measures for the preservation of the paintings, which are stated in detail in the following report, which I beg leave to submit to the House. 1st. All the paintings were taken down, removed from their frames, taken off from the panels over which they are strained, removed to a dry warm room, and there separately and carefully examined. The material which forms the basis of these paintings is a linen cloth, whose strength and texture is very similar to that used in the topgallant-sails of a ship of war. The substances employed in forming a proper surface for the artist, together with the colors, oils, &c. employed by him in his work, form a sufficient protection for the threads of the canvass on this face, but the back remains bare, and, of course, exposed to the deleterious influence of damp air. The effect of this is first seen in the form of mildew; it was this which I dreaded; and the examination showed that mildew was already commenced, and to an extent which rendered it manifest that the continuance of the same exposure, which they had hitherto undergone, for a very few years longer, would have accomplished the com- plete decomposition or rotting of the canvass, and the consequent destruction of the paintings. The first thing to be done was to dry the canvass perfectly, which was accomplished by laying down each picture successively on its face, upon a clean dry carpet, and exposing the back to the influence of the warmth of a dry and well aired room. The next thing was to devise and apply some substance which would act permanently as a preservative against future possible exposure. I had learned that, a few years ago, some of the eminent chemists of Trance had examined with great care several of the ancient mummies of Egypt, with a view to ascertain the nature of the substance employed by the embalmers, which the lapse of so many ages had proved to possess the power of protecting from decay a sub- stance otherwise so perishable as the human body. This examination had proved that, after the application of liquid asphaltum to the cavities of the head and body, the whole had been wrapped carefully in many envelopes, or bandages of linen, pre- pared with wax. The committee of chemists decided further, after a careful exami- nation and analysis of the hieroglyphic paintings with which the cases, &c., are covered, that the colors employed, and still retaining their vivid brightness, had also been prepared and applied with the same substance. I also knew that, towards the close of the last century, the Antiquarian Society of England had been permitted to open and examine the stone coffin deposited in one of the vaults of Westminster Abbey, and said to contain the body of King Edward I., who died in July, 1307. On removing the stone lid of the coffin, its contents were found to be closely enveloped in a strong linen cloth, waxed. Within this envelope were found splendid robes of silk, enriched with various ornaments covering the The Old Building. 803 body, which was found to be entire, and to have been wrapped carefully in all its parts, even to each separate finger, in bandages of fine linen, which had been dipped in melted wax; and not only was the body not decomposed, but the various parts of the dress, 'such as a scarlet satin mantle, and a scarlet piece of sarsnet which was placed over the face, were in perfect preservation, even to their colors. The knowl- edge of these facts persuaded me that wax, applied to the back of the paintings, would form the best defence, hitherto known to exist, against the destructive effects of damp and stagnant air; and therefore, 2dly. Common beeswax was melted over the fire with an equal quantity (in bulk) of oil of turpentine; and this mixture, by the help of large brushes, was applied hot to the back of each cloth, and was aftewards rubbed in with hot irons, until the cloths were perfectly saturated. 3dly. In the mean time, the niches in the solid wall, in which the paintings are placed, were carefully plaistered with hydraulic cement, to prevent any possible exudation of moisture from the wall; and as there is a space of from 2 to 8 inches deep between the surface of the wall and the back of the panels on which the cloths are strained, I caused small openings to be cut in the wall, above and under the edge of the frames, and communicating with those vacant spaces, for the purpose of admit- ting the air of the room behind the paintings, and thus keeping up a constant venti- lation, by means of which the same temperature of air will be maintained at the back of the paintings as on their face. 4thly. The cloths were finally strained upon panels, for the purpose of guarding against injury from careless or intentional blows of sticks, canes, &c., or children’s missiles. These panels are perforated with many holes, to admit the air freely to the back of the cloths; and being perfectly dried, were carefully painted, to prevent the wood from absorbing or transmitting any humidity. The whole were then restored to their places, and finally cleaned with care, and slightly revarnished. 5thly. As the accumulation of dust arising from sweeping so large a room, and, what is much worse, the filth of flies, (the most destructive enemies of painting,) if not carefully guarded against, renders necessary the frequent washing and cleaning of the surface of pictures, every repetition of which is injurious, I have directed cur- tains to be placed, which can be drawn in front of the whole, whenever the room is to be swept, as well as in the recess of the Legislature during the Summer, when flies are most pernicious. 6thly. As nothing is more obvious than the impossibility of keeping a room warm and dry by means of fire, so long as doors are left open for the admission of the external air, I have further directed self-closing baize doors to be prepared and placed, so that they will unavoidably close behind every one who shall either enter or leave the room. When the doors are kept closed, and fires lighted in the furnaces below, to supply warm air, I find the temperature of this vast apartment is easily maintained at about 63 degrees of Fahrenheit; and the simple precaution of closed doors being observed, in addition to. the others which I have employed, I entertain no doubt that these paintings are now perfectly and permanently secured against the deleterious effects of dampness. I regret that I was not authorized to provide against the danger of damage by vio- lence, whether intended or accidental. Curiosity naturally leads men to touch, as well as to look at, objects of this kind; and, placed low as they are, not only the gilded frames and curtains, but the surface of the paintings are within the reach of spectators: repeated handling, even by the best intentioned and most careful, will, in the course of a few years, produce essential damage. But one of the paintings testifies to the possibility of their being approached, for the very purpose of doing injury: the right foot of General Morgan, in the picture of Saratoga, was cut off with a sharp instrument, apparently a penknife. I have repaired the wound, but the scar 304 Documentary History of the Capitol. remains visible. If 1 had possessed the authority, I should have placed in front, and at the distance of not less than ten feet from the wall, an iron railing, of such strength and elevation as should form a complete guard against external injury by ill-disposed persons; unless they employed missiles of some force. I beg leave to commend to the attention of the House this farther precaution. All which is most respectfully submitted to the Idouse, by Jno. Trumbull. [From the “Act making appropriations for the public buildings, and other purposes,” approved Mar., 3, 1829. (Stats, at Large, v. 4, 362.) ] For repairs and other work necessary to be done on or about the capitol and its enclosures, eighteen thousand seven hundred and sixty-two dollars and sixty-three cents. [House of Representatives, 21st, Congress, 1st session. Rep. No. 83. Hall of the House of Repre- sentatives, U. S. Memorial of Robert Mills, of South Carolina, January 14, 1830. Referred to the Committee on Public Buildings, and ordered to be printed.] The memorial of Robert Mills respectfully showeth: That he lias for some time had under consideration, the subject of the cause and remedy of the defect existing in the Hall of Representatives of Congress, with reference to the difficulty experienced in hearing and speaking, and would ask the leave of the House to submit for its consideration the enclosed plan and explanation, (being the substance of a letter addressed to the State Department some years ago on this sub- ject) exhibiting the cause of the evil complained of, and the means of rectifying it, at very small cost; and without either injury to the beauty of the room, or inconven- ience to the members. All of which is respectfully submitted. Robert Mills. City of Washington, January 14, 1830. Washington, October, 1826. The Hon. the Secretary of State of the United States: Dear Sir: After the conversation which I had the honor yesterday to have with you, in relation to certain projected alterations and improvements in the Hall of Representatives of Congress, with a view to rendering it a better speaking and hear- ing room, it will be only necessary here to recapitulate, and briefly to examine, certain fundamental principles on the doctrine of sound, then advanced, and upon which were grounded all the arguments urged in favor of making such improve- ments, corresponding with the plans submitted by me. It is a received axiom in the science of acoustics, that sound, in its propagation, is subject to the same general laws which govern light in its transmission — that is to say, 1st. That, like light, it radiates from a centre. 2d. That it is subject to reflection and refraction. 3d. That its angle of reflection is always equal to its angle of incidence, &c. If any doubt rested on our minds upon these points, we may soon remove them, with a little attention to what occurs in our daily experience. For instance: if we place ourselves at a proper distance opposite to a wall, and at right angles with the same, and speak aloud, we shall instantly be sensible of a distant echo, or return of the original sound; and also experience a considerable support to the voice. Now, if we move out of a square line with this wall, (a. few feet only, ) we shall receive no The Old Building. 305 return of the sound, or no echo, and realize a sensible depression of the voice. The echo, however, or the reflection of the original sound, has been conveyed to the ear of some one, who, by accident or design, is placed in that point of the plane on which we stand, where the reflected ray will strike, and this will be found to be exactly equi-distant from the perpendicular of the plane of the wall that we are. Again: You have noticed the ringing of a bell, in walking through a town, or where there are buildings in the vicinity, and have been sensible of more distinctness in the sound at times than at others; the cause, on examination, may be traced to some intervening wall, and it will be discovered that the angle you make with that wall is the same that the bell makes. These two simple facts (which may be tested at any time) prove that the rays of sound (if we may so speak) proceed in straight lines, and are subject to reflection exactly in the ratio of the angle made by the rays impinging against the reflecting surface. Upon this principle, whispering galleries are sounded, and also sounding boards placed over rostrums and pulpits. Such echoes as reach the ear at the same moment of time are Called consonant echoes, and according to the number of these are tne strength and unity of the original sound; and vice versa, in proportion to the deficiency of these consonant echoes, and to the increase of such as are dissonant, (rays of sound reaching the ear at different periods of time,) is the confused nature of the sound. Now, that the perfection of the original sound is in the ratio of the multitude of consonant or homogeneous echoes, may be easily demonstrated by placing ourselves in the centre of a well constructed circular room, where the reflecting surface is equi-distant all round, and comparing the effect of the voice there with its effect at any other point within the circumference of that circle. The Hall of Congress, at present, exhibits & partial example of this fact, as the strength of the voice increases and its distinctness is more perceptible as we approach the Speaker’s chair, because the number of consonant echoes increase, whilst those that are dissonant decrease: hence, near the Speaker’s chair is the best place not only to speak, but to be heard. The voice here receives the support of a ring of consonant echoes from the ceiling, and from those parts of the walls of the room which are parallel with the curved line formed by the columns of the gallery. The rotundo of the Capitol exhibits another instance in point. The superior strength of the voice is very evident when you speak at the centre, compared to what it is at the circumference; but the lofti- ness of the walls and the form of the ceiling produce such a multitude of dissonant echoes, as to destroy the good effects of this form of room, which under a different arrangement of the elevation would have been a good speaking room; as it now is, the effect of a number of voices speaking there is to produce a perfect Babel. From the premises laid down, and which facts warrant us to believe correct, we infer that, in proportion to the number of irregular reflecting surfaces in any room, is the increase of dissonant echoes, and consequently of indistinctness of the voice. We may now safely proceed, after what has been said, to develop the cause and point out the means of rectifying the evil found to exist in our hall. On the first view of this room, we are forcibly struck with the fact of its incapacity to effect a distinct conveyance of the voice. Here, a number of irregular surfaces, or walls, are seen running in different directions — all of which necessarily tend to pro- duce an infinite variety of echoes, the principal part of which are dissonant, and hence the buzz which frequently follows on speaking. * * * In all that has been advanced, reference is had only to the perpendicular lines of surface of the room; taking it for granted that no material defect exists either in the form or position of the ceiling, but that it is in perfect accordance with correct principles in acoustics, namely: 1st, that the curved line which it forms corresponds H. Rep. 646 20 Documentary History of the Capitol. 306 with some portion of a perfect sphere; and 2d, that this curve line is described from a point below the floor of the hall, or at least below the ear of the hearer. If this be not the case, then it generates a ring of discordant echoes, which, perpetually crossing each other above the ear, must also contribute to produce indistinctness of sound. If, on examination, this state of things is found to exist in any serious degree, then, in addition to the other alteration of the room, it might be found requisite to raise the floor to a height proper to produce the desired effect. I am led, however, to believe that the correction of the fundamental error pointed out, will be all .that would be needed to remedy the great cause of complaint, and the raising of the floor rendered unnecessary. To accomplish, practically, the object we have in view, I would respectfully recom- mend to the committee the adoption of the following plan of proceeding: To construct a screen or partition behind the columns in the gallery so as to form a curve line parallel with the line described by the columns. * * * This screen may be so ornamental as to correspond in design with the other parts of the room, and appear as part of the original plan. Apertures, if necessary, may be made in this partition, so as to afford to spectators behind it the same advantages of seeing and hearing which they now have. This plan combines so much of simplicity and economy in its construction, and the object to be accomplished is so important, that I should hope little difficulty will occur in carrying it into execution. When to this is added the certainty of its contributing to the beauty of the hall, I feel assured that it will receive the favorable consideration of the committee. I trust, sir, that no plan will be put into execution which will tend to mar the beauty of the hall, under the impression that it will rectify the evil in question. The only plan capable of remedying this evil is in perfect con- sistency with the symmetry of the room. A flat ceiling, which, I understand, has been suggested, I assure you, would, so far from producing any good result, actually increase the evil, and certainly prove a deformity in the room. The root of the evil, as I have proved, (I hope satisfactorily, ) lies not in the ceiling, but in the walls: some defect may, possibly, be found in the ceiling also, arising out of its present loftiness, but this is of minor importance. The irregularity of the surface of the walls behind the columns is the great source of the evil complained of: a spherical ceiling, when properly formed, is, as before shown, a powerful auxiliary to the voice in supporting and strengthening it. In summing up these brief remarks, I would only observe that, should the com- mittee think proper to confide to my care the arrangement and execution of the plan for rectifying the evil we have been considering, I will devote to the object that atten- tion which, I have little hesitation in saying, will result in realizing all that can be wished. The subject of acoustics has long engaged my attention in consequence of having, in the early day of my professional practice, recommended the adoption of new forms of rooms for forensic debate, and also where the place of the speaker was permanent. Twenty years of experience has fully confirmed me in the correctness of the principles then laid down and acted upon in the construction of many public rooms for speaking. Several years ago I was requested by the architect of the Cap- itol (Mr. Bulfinch) to give him my ideas on the cause and means of rectifying the defects in the conveyance of the voice in the hall, which I did. Mr. Poinsett, (our minister to Mexico, ) when in Congress, made me a similar request, in order that he might communicate the same to the committee appointed by the House on this sub- ject. In both of these papers I went into a minute investigation of the subject, detail- ing the governing laws of sound, and their adaptation to the circumstances under which our hall was placed. Should the committee wish to examine these papers, they will, no doubt, find them among the documents of the above-mentioned com- mittee; if not, and should what I have here written be not sufficiently explanative, I shall be happy of the opportunity of entering more fully into the subject, either verbally or in writing. The Old Building. 307 Receive, sir, the assurances of my high consideration and respect. Robert Mills, Engineer and Architect, of South Carolina- 's. B. — -It will be necessary here to remark, that, after the above communication was made to the State Department, I was informed that an engagement had some time before been entered into by the committee with a professional gentleman to examine and report a plan for improving the hall, which I was not then aware of: no other proposition on the subject could, therefore, be considered until the result of the first was ascertained. R. M. [House of Representatives. Rep. No. 123. 21st Congress, 1st Session. Memorial of Charles Bulfmch, on the subject of the Hall of the House of Representatives. January 25, 1830. Referred to the Committee on the Public Buildings.] To the Honorable House of Representatives of the United States : The subject of improving the Representatives’ Hall of the Capitol being again referred to the Committee on the Public Buildings, I beg leave to present an abstract of the proceedings and reports formerly had on that subject, with such additional suggestions as appear to me applicable at the present time. With much respect, their obedient servant, Charles Bulfinch. January 24, 1830. Upon Congress being reinstated at the Capitol, in 1820, it was found that a diffi- culty existed both in speaking and hearing, in the Representatives’ Hall; this was at first imputed to the resonances and echoes occasioned by the unfurnished state of the Hall, and to the freshness and dampness of the new work. To remedy this defect, draperies were ordered to be suspended in front of the galleries, and between the columns of the Prostyle of the Logia; and carpets were spread in the galleries. These measures produced some effect in lessening the reverberations, but did not entirely remedy the inconveniences complained of. In the Session of 1821, a large Committee, of 24 Members, was raised, to “inquire into the practicability of making such alterations in the present structure of the Hall of the House of Representatives as shall better adapt it to the purposes of a deliberative assembly.” This Commit- tee attended to the subject fully, and consulted the Architect (and such scientific persons whose opinions could be readily obtained) when several very contradictory theories and projects were suggested. The Architect had the honor of presenting the following report: Report of the Architect of the Capitol, to the Chairman of the Comm ittee on Public Buildings, 1821 . Sir: I have received your communication, enclosing the resolution of the House of Representatives “to inquire into the practicability of making such alternations in the present structure of the Hall of the House of Representatives as shall better adapt it to the purposes of a deliberative assembly.” I have attended to the subject, and have considered the various suggestions that have been made, with a view to the desired improvement, and beg leave to present the following: The plan of the Hall under consideration was chosen by the distinguished Artist who commenced the restoration of the Capitol, from the most approved remains of Antiquity; it was taken, a pparently, from the designs of the Grecian and Roman Theatres, traces of which are still extant ; and no form could be devised better adapted to such buildings; the w'hole audience being arranged in concentric semi-circular rows, and facing the Proscenium or place of exhibition, where all that was spoken was delivered from the stage or space in front of the semi-circle. This form has also 808 Documentary History of the Capitol. been adopted of late in the legislative halls at Paris; but it is not found altogether convenient for a deliberative assembly, where the speakers are seated indiscrimi- nately, and frequently with a large portion of the members in their rear; in conse- quence of which, it has become necessary there, to select particular spots for desks or tribunes, as stations for those who wish to address the assembly. If such a meas- ure could be adopted here, it would in a great degree remove the present complaint; as it is found, when religious services are performed, that the voice of the preacher is well heard in every part of the hall, assisted as he is by the silence which the solemnity of worship enjoins, but which is too much interrupted on other occasions. Several suggestions have been made for the improvement of the Hall : 1st, To raise the floor. 2d, To contract the space by a partition of glass, in place of the present bar. 3d, To form a level ceiling at the foot of the dome, resting on the stone entab- latures, over the columns. I cannot think that any great advantage could be derived from raising the floor, because it could not be done, more than three feet, without disfiguring the columns and destroying all the beauty of their proportions; and the chief difficulty of hearing is occasioned by the reverberation and confusion of sounds, from the lofty and smooth ceiling, which would not be affected by this mode of alteration. The second proposal, to reduce the space by a glass partition, is also objectionable, as, in my opinion, it would produce no effect, unless carried very high to shut out the galleries; which the habits of our country have made indispensable; and this mode would not remove the difficulty of the dome. The third proposal, of a flat ceiling, affords a prospect of greater advantage than any other. It would reduce the absolute height of the room in the centre, upwards of twenty feet, in which space much of the voice is lost; and would check, in a great measure, and perhaps wholly, the reverberation and echo complained of. Although it would be a subject of much regret, that the beauty of the form and decoration of the dome should be obscured, yet these considerations must yield to the convenience of the Legislative body. To impair the appearance of the room as little as possible, I propose that this ceiling be made of glass, and present a drawing, in which its form and construction are shown; the panes to be made as large as convenient, and the principal ribs to be gilded. This ceiling would be preferable to one of wood or plaster, because, in that case, it would hide entirely the present dome, excepting the opening of the sky-light, which must be retained, but which would lose much of its usefulness from the angle in which the light would be received, and which would hardly reach the outer rows of the circle. I submit an estimate of the expense of a glass ceiling, amounting to five thousand dollars. If this plan is adopted by the honorable House of Representatives, the work could be executed in the recess. Experience, I think, has proved, that the objections to the present Hall are not so forcible as they were last season, but that, the members are better heard, as they become accustomed to the room, and to the pitch of voice required; yet, if it should be considered so inconvenient that the necessity of improving it should be thought indispensable, and would justify the expense, I would recommend that the glass ceiling be built, and a trial made of its utility at the next session. Respectfully presented by Charles Bulfinch. No decisive measures were taken in consequence of this examination and report, and the evil still being complained of, the Committee on Public Buildings was again directed, at the following session, to consider the subject anew, when the archicect presented the following report to the Chairman of the Committee: Sir: In obedience to the wish of the Committee on Public Buildings, I have paid attention to the resolution of the House of Representatives, to consider what alter- The Old Building. 309 ations were practicable in the present structure of the Hall of ,the House of Repre- sentatives, to adapt it better to the purposes of a deliberative assembly. This subject has been under consideration with the Committee on Public Buildings of 1820 and 1821, at which times, I presented to them my observations, to which I now beg leave to refer in the papers marked No. 1 and No. 2. In addition to the above, I have since been attentive to the subject, to investigate the mode in which sound expands in large rooms, and to endeavor to form some practical conclusions. The investigation of the laws which regulate the diffusion of sound, has been less carefully attended to than any other part of Natural Philosophy, and very seldom has the practical architect received any assistance on this point from scientific men, or been willing to submit his designs to their control. Every work on Natural Philosophy, in general, contains observations on acoustics, and endeavors to explain the principles of musical instruments, the vibrations of strings, and the nature and cause of echoes; but these principles have seldom been applied for useful and practical purposes, to the construction of the interior of large rooms for deliberative assemblies. Places of public worship and. theatres have received a greater share of attention, and the result of experience on such apart- ments, has been to avoid lofty domes, and arched ceilings of great elevation. The manner in which sound operates on the air, has been the subject of much inquiry; the theory generally adopted, supposes that sound is projected in direct lines, and that it is governed by the same principles as rays of light; and that it is reflected from the substances which it encounters, in angles, equal to the angles of incidence. Another theory supposes that sound is propagated by an undulatory motion of the air, and that resonnances and echoes are produced by the sound being conducted along the surface of intervening walls or other bodies. The most judicious and practical writer on this subject that I have had the opportunity to consult, is Saunders, on the construction of Theatres. I beg per- mission to quote from him a few observations. “The supposition of sound being reflected on the same principles as light, has been very generally admitted, and in order to support this theory, it is asserted that sound is propagated in direct rays. Accordingly, Kircher, and most of those who follow him, after explaining the prog- ress of sound to be undulative, go on comparing its properties with those of light; which is clearly refuted by Sir Isaac Newton, who says, ‘a pressure on a fluid medium cannot be propagated in right lines, but will be always inflecting and diffusing itself every way, beyond any obstacle that may be presented to it. Sounds are propagated with equal ease through crooked tubes, and through straight lines; but light was never known to move in any curve, nor to inflect itself.’ The French Encyclo- pedists, who adopt the theory of the reflection of sound, are obliged to qualify it by acknowledging that the theory is still vague and uncertain, and that the comparison of the laws of the reflection of sound with that of light, may be true to a certain point, but it is not without restrictions, because sound is propagated in every direction, and light in right lines only.” Mr. Saunders, after a course of experiments, comes to this conclusion, that sound is effected by vibration among the particles of air, and moves in a circular undu- lating form. That echo is produced by conduction, and not by reflection, as heretofore imagined. It depends on the conductor, and the nature and form of the substance it meets with. He asserts that, after a smooth surface of water, stone is the most powerful conductor of sound; experience proves that smooth walls of plaster are next in order, then surfaces of wood, and lastly, hangings of tapestry or woollen cloth. These observations and results are important, when applied to the Hall of the House of Representatives. The difficulty of hearing and speaking arises, in the first place, from the great size of the room; and is an evil which must always be appre- hended in any room constructed to afford such ample conveniences for so numerous 310 Documentary History of the Capitol. a body, unless the speakers will consent to mount a tribune, situated in the most favorable position: and in the second place, from the resonnances or echoes, occa- sioned by the dome of 60 feet elevation from the floor. If these echoes could be checked, the difficulty of speaking and hearing would be, in a great measure, removed. For this purpose, I ventured to propose, in 1821, a horizontal ceiling of glass; but this is liable to objections, from the great difficulty of keeping so large a surface clean, and from the bad effect to be apprehended on the air of the room, from reducing it so much in its dimensions. Private individuals have no motive for making experiments on the principles of the expansion of sound, and companies of proprietors of buildings are deterred from doing it, by the uncertainty of the effect, and by the expense. An opportunity is at present offered to Congress, to authorize some experiments during the recess, which may be productive of good consequences, and would, at least, extend a knowledge of the true principles which govern the operations of sound. With this view, I take the liberty to mention the following: The Grecian and Roman Theatres were constructed without roofs, and were entirely open above; but it was usual to stretch a covering of sail cloth over the circular seats, to protect the audience from the inclemency of the weather. I would take a hint from this practice, and propose, that cords should be strained, at the springing of the dome, to support a ceiling of light woollen cloth or flannel, projecting ten feet from the columns, within the semicircle. If the theory of conduction of sound be correct, this horizontal projection will prevent it reaching the dome, to occasion the echoes complained of. The experiment might be tried at moderate expense, and, if found effectual, the ceiling might be finished afterwards, in a more permanent manner. Respectfully submitted. Charles Bulfinch. March 11th, 1822. In consequence of this last suggestion, orders were given to stretch a covering of canvass over the whole Hall; which was done, as speedily as possible, at the height of the blocking course above the columns. This ceiling, composed of an unelastic substance, checked the reverberation but too fully; it not only put a stop to the echoes, but seemed to absorb the volume of sound; and, rendering the Hall dark, by obstructing the sky light, it was removed after a few days. Another experiment was tried, at a following session, of reducing the dimensions of the Hall, by framing a wooden partition between the columns of the prostyle; but no good effects were experienced from this measure, to counterbalance the inconven- ience from the loss of space and light, and the partition was removed after one week’s trial. No other attempt was made to remedy the evil complained of, until May 19, 1826; when the House resolved, “That the Clerk of this House be authorized to employ William Strickland, of Philadelphia, to act in conjunction with the architect now employed in completing the Capitol, in devising a plan for improving the Hall, so far as to render it better suited to the purposes of a deliberative assembly; That the Secretary of State, the Secretary of War, and the Attorney General, be requested to act as a Board of Inspection, on the aforesaid contemplated improvement, during the recess of Congress; and that, if the said architects can devise any plan for accom- plishing the object, that shall receive the sanction of the Board aforesaid, they be authorized to execute the same, under the direction of the said Board. Resolved, That the expense be defrayed out of the contingent fund.” In pursuance of this resolution, Mr. Strickland was invited to make the examina- tion desired, and attended to this service -in the Summer of 1826, after which the following statements were presented to the House in February, 1827. * * * [19 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 93.] The Old Building. 311 This report of Mr. Strickland, seemed to put the subject at rest: for no further notice was taken of it, until late in the long session of 1828; when, from the warmth of the season, complaints were made of the want of ventilation in the Hall, and this, with the former difficulty of hearing, caused a short debate; but no order was taken thereon. The architect, however, conceiving it to be his duty to meet every sugges- tion for the improvement of the building under his care, applied himself, in the recess, to prepare drawings, which he laid before the Committee, in 1829; but they did not think proper to make any report thereon to the House. These drawings make part of the present communication. By this design, it is proposed to bring the galleries down nearly to the floor of the Hall, of the extent of four intercolumniations on the East and West; by which means, two large windows on each side would be opened to view, and would afford a more equal diffusion of light, and secure complete ventilation. Should this plan be adopted, the objection to removing the dome would lose its force, on the score of reducing the cubic volume of air, and a fiat ceiling might be substituted. I present two drawings of ceilings, one of glass, and another composed of glass and plaster; should either of them be approved by the Committee, estimates can be furnished of the expense, previous to presenting the report to the House. The whole alteration of both the galleries and ceiling, might be made during the recess of Congress. All which is respectfully submitted. Charles Bulfinch. January 24th, 1830. [Ho. of Reps. Rep. No. 291. 22d Congress, 1st session. Public Improvements in Washington. February 15, 1832.] Mr. Washington, from the Committee for the District of Columbia, to which the subject had been referred, made the following report: * * -si- No. 15. Capitol, IT. S., Feh. 6, 1830. * * * The expenditures on the public buildings in this city, have been as follows: On the wings of the Capitol, previous to their destruction in 1814 $788, 071 98 * * * Rebuilding the wings of the Capitol 687, 126 00 * * * Erecting centre building of the Capitol 957, 647 36 * * * J. Elgar, Commissioner of Public Buildings. * * * Your committee further report, that they have taken into consideration the expe- diency of providing for the introduction of an adequate supply of pure spring water, for the use of the members of Congress, and officers of the Government in the public departments, and are sensibly impressed with the importance of provisk >n being made to effect so desirable an object. A square has been purchased, by appropriation of Congress, at the cost of $6,900 34, on which there is a fountain capable of supplying the President’s house and the departments with a sufficiency of water to fill reservoirs as a protection against fire, and for other purposes. By an estimate of the Commissioner of the Public Build- ings, accompanying this report, it appears that the expense of conducting the water to those buildings, will not exceed $5,700. The committee need only refer Congress to the statement of the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, made part of this report, to satisfy every member of the expe- 312 Documentary History of the Capitol. diency, and indeed necessity, of having a supply of pure spring water brought to the Capitol, as well for the health and comfort of the members, as the security of the building against fire. From the reports of experienced engineers, herewith submitted, it appears that an abundant supply of the purest spring water can be brought to the Capitol, at an expense inconsiderable when compared with the importance of the object. The committee would further recommend, that the rough brick pavement (tempo- rarily laid) from the western gate to the Capitol, should be removed, and flagging of the Seneca stone substituted. An estimate for this object, made by the commissioner, is appended. The committee beg leave to report a bill in conformity with the above recommen- dations. A. House of Representatives, January 26, 1832. Sir: The Committee for the District of Columbia wishes to obtain such information as it may be in your power to supply, in answer to the following queries: What sum has been paid for the spring, and ground on which it is situated, for the purpose of supplying the President’s house and public offices with water to drink, and to fill reservoirs as security against fire? and what quantity of ground is con- tained in such lot? What number of pumps are on the Capitol square? what is the quality and quantity of water they afford? and, in the event of fire to any extent, would they supply water adequate to its extinguishment? What distance is water now brought for the use of the members and officers of Congress? Have not examinations been made to ascertain the practicability of bringing water into the upper stories of the Capitol? and can an adequate supply of pure spring water be obtained, both for drinking and to fill reservoirs? and at what expense? The committee will thank you to give an early answer, and will be pleased to receive any suggestions, upon the subjects above named, you may think proper to make. Respectfully, your obedient servant, To Joseph Elgar, Esq. Commissioner of the Pub. Buildings. G. C. Washington. B. Washington, January 27, 1832. Sir: In answer to the inquiries contained in your letter of the 26th instant, I have the honor to state, that, by authority of an appropriation by Congress, I have, with much difficulty, succeeded in purchasing from the private owners the square num- bered 249, on which is a fountain capable of supplying, it is supposed, the public offices and President’s house with water for ordinary purposes, and to keep up reser- voirs as a protection against fires. The square contains 174,4174 square feet, and has cost the sum of $6,900 34. 2. The greatest distance to which the water would have to be conveyed is 3,704 feet, and iron pipes of sufficient size cost one dollar per foot, including all expenses. The reservoirs and hydrants are estimated at about $2,000. 3. There are two pumps in the Capitol yard, and one in an open court. The quality of the water in all of them is bad, entirely unfit for drinking. All the water The Old Building. 813 used for that purpose in the building is brought from a pump on New Jersey avenue, distant about 420 yards. The quantity of water afforded by the pumps in the yard is small. In the case of the lire which happened in the library, the alarming fact was dis- closed, just as the lire was got under, that the water was exhausted; and if the lire had continued a few minutes longer, the destruction of the entire roof would have been inevitable. The situation of the Executive offices, and their invaluable contents, is equally hazardous — indeed, from their combustible materials, more so. Without a copious supply of water, the costly apparatus, provided by Congress for the protection of those buildings and of the Capitol, must be unavailing. 4. In obedience to a resolution of the House of Representatives, I procured surveys to be made by Mr. Dumeste, of the corps of U. S. engineers, of the fountains in the vicinity of the Capitol. A copy of his report and estimate is handed to you, showing that pure spring water can be procured, in quantity sufficient for all useful purposes, at elevations capable of being conveyed into the Capitol, and at an expense, which, it is respectfully submitted, bears no proportion to the magnitude of the object. I have the honor to remain, your faithful servant, J. Elgar. Hon. George C. Washington. C. Estimates for conveying water to the Capitol. Washington, February 27, 1830. Sir: To enable you to comply with the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 1st instant, I submit for your consideration the following facts, by me collected at your request. The country around Washington, to the distance of five miles, lias been explored, and every spring of any note has been duly considered. In addition to the springs herein mentioned, I have gauged four springs, situated from one to two miles west of Georgetown; the united supply derived from said springs was 15i gallons per minute, and the whole of them of an altitude much above the top of the capitol. The distance being so great, I did not think it neces- sary to make an actual survey of them until you should see cause to require it. I submit herewith estimates of all the springs from which levels have been traced. First estimate — Smith’s large spring. For 14,268 feet of a cast iron pipe, four inches in the interior diameter, laid, including every expense $21, 402 For 1,064 feet oi additional pipe, to convey the water about the grounds of the Capitol, at $1 50 per running foot 1, 596 For reservoirs for collecting the water at the source, and for reservoirs on the Capitol hill 6,500 For all ornamental, and for all other expenses, to convey the water through the Capitol 2, 000 For contingencies and unforeseen incidents 800 32, 298 For purchase of spring and right of way Amount 314 Documentary History of tlie Capitol. The above named spring is situated north of the capitol, and yielded, in the month of February, seven gallons per minute. From the best information I can procure, I am of the opinion that it is a durable spring. The water is of a good quality, and its height is 30' 9" 02 /// above the basement story of the Capitol. Second estimate — Smith’s second spring, on the same ground. For 13,884 feet of a cast iron pipe, four inches in the interior diameter, laid, including every expense, at $1 50 per running foot $20, 820 For 1,064 feet of additional pipe, to convey the water about the grounds of the Capitol, at $1 50 per running foot 1, 596 For reservoirs for collecting the water about the source, and for reservoirs on the Capitol square. 6, 500 For all ornamental, and for all other expenses, to convey the water through the Capitol 2, 000 For contingencies and unforeseen incidents 800 31,716 For purchase of spring and right of way Amount This spring yielded, in the month of February, three gallons per minute. From the best information I can procure, I am inclined to think it a durable one. The water is of a good quality, and its height is 37' 4" 82"' above the basement story of the Capitol. Third estimate — Spring in the same neighborhood, known by the name of Dunlap’s spring. For 13,570 feet of a cast iron pipe, four inches in the interior diameter, includ- ing every expense $20, 355 For 1,064 feet of additional pipe, to convey the water about the grounds of the Capitol 1,596 For reservoirs for collecting the water at the source, and for reservoirs on the Capitol square 6, 500 For all ornamental, and for all other expenses, to convey the water through the Capitol 2, 000 For contingencies and unforeseen incidents 800 31,251 For purchase of spring, and right of way Amount This spring yielded, in the month of February, four and a half gallons per minute. From the best information I can procure, I am inclined to think it a durable fountain. The water is of a good quality, and its height is 33' 9" 42'" above the basement story of the Capitol. Fourth estimate — Large, spring east of the Capitol. For 11,062 feet of a cast iron pipe five inches in the interior diameter, at $2 per running foot, including every expense $22, 124 For reservoirs for collecting the water at the source, and for reservoirs at the foot of the Capitol hill > 6, 500 For all ornamental, and for all other expenses, to convey the water about the foot of the Capitol hill 2, 000 For contingencies and for unforeseen incidents 1, 000 31, 624 For purchase of spring, and right of way Amount The Old B uilding. 315 The above spring yielded, in the month of February, thirty-two gallons per min- ute, and is, by far, the best in this vicinity. It is on the level of the pavement at the foot of the hill by the western gate. Fifth estimate — Showing the cost of uniting the two first named springs in this report , and conveying the same to the Capitol. For 608 feet of a cast iron pipe, three inches in the interior diameter, laid, including every expense, at $1 per running foot $608 For 13,772 feet of a cast iron pipe, four and a half inches in the interior diameter, laid, including every expense, at $1 75 per running foot 24, 101 For 1,064 feet of additional pipe to convey the water about the grounds of the Capitol, at $1 50 per running foot 1, 596 For reservoirs for collecting the water at the sources, and for reservoirs on the Capitol square 7, 000 For all ornamental, and for all other expenses, to convey the waters through the Capitol 2, 000 For contingencies and for unforeseen incidents 800 36, 105 For purchase of two springs, and for right of way Amount Sixth estimate — Showing the cost of uniting the three first, named springs , and conveying the same to the Capitol. For 3,627 feet of a cast iron pipe, four inches in the interior diameter, laid, including every expense, at $1 50 per running foot $5, 440 50 For 12,837 feet of a cast iron pipe, live inches in the interior diameter, laid, including every expense, at $2 per running foot 25, 674 For 1,064 feet of additional pipe, to convey the water about the grounds of the Capitol „ 1, 596 For reservoirs for collecting the water at the sources, and for reservoirs on the Capitol square 8, 000 For all ornamental, and for all other expenses, to convey the water through the Capitol 2, 000 For contingencies, and for unforeseen incidents 1,000 43, 710 50 For purchase of the springs, and right of way Amount The three springs above named yielded, in the month of February, fourteen and a half gallons per minute. In submitting, for your consideration, the above facts and approximate estimates, I beg leave to remark that I have not had time to arrive at the cost with as much percision as might be desired. I tbink I have assumed prices which will be found ample for the work in contemplation. The pipe may, upon further investigation, require different dimensions; and the quantity of water may vary according to the seasons. I am, sir, your most olxl’t serv’t. J. A. Dumeste. To Joseph Elgar, Esq. Commissioner of the Pub. Buildings. 316 Documentary History of the Capitol. D. To the Hon. the Committee foe the District of Columbia: Gentlemen: On the subject of supplying public buildings with water, I have the honor to refer you to my letter of March 30, 1830, reported by the Committee on Public Buildings, April 5, 1830, which gives an expose of the relative merits of the several streams contiguous to the city, capable of affording the requisite supply of water for the purposes in question. According to the examinations then made and reported, the main springs of the Tiber was found to gauge as follows: No. 1, seven gallons per minute; No. 2, three gallons per minute; No. 3, four and a half gallons per minute; total, fourteen and a half gallons per minute; and the expense of bringing the same to the Capitol was estimated at §43,710, exclusive of the purchase of spring rights. If the head spring, No. 1, yielding seven gallons per minute, was only brought to the Capitol, the expense would be about §32,000, besides the right of the spring. But to avail ourselves of all the advantages furnished from these sources, it was proposed, in the event of resorting to the Tiber, to construct a basin, at a point where all the main springs discharge, to collect their united streams, and use them to the best advantage. By this means, a more abundant supply of water would be obtained, which would suffice not only for the Capitol, but the President’s house, public offices, navy yard, penitentiary, &c. Upon this plan of bringing in the waters of the Tiber, it was shown that there would be more economy than resorting to even a single main spring, the expense being estimated from §20,000 to §40,000, according to the extent of supply. From the location of the Tiber head springs, in regard to the position of the pub- lic buildings — lying so far to the north and east of the city, which would cause a great extent of pipe to be laid before any useful discharge of waters from it would be required, and the importance of having an abundant supply of water, not only for common purposes, but to answer the growing demands of the city, irrigating the public grounds, and providing the means of averting the scourge of conflagration. From these considerations, the attention of the committee was called to another source of supply in the waters of Rock creek. The position, capacity, and quality, of this stream, were pointed out as favorable for all purposes demanded by the public buildings, and sufficient to meet every exigency, whether of a public or private nature. Lying on the west side of the city, this stream, brought in, would pass through the most populous parts of the city, along by the President’s house, public offices, Post office, &c. before reaching the Capitol; and thus every portion of the conduit, con- veying the water, may be profitably employed, and, eventually, may be made to reimburse the first cost. The vicinity of Georgetown to the main reservoir, would enable that place also to derive the advantages of a supply of water, of which it stands so much in need; and thus a very extensive good may be disseminated with a very little increase of expense beyond what the bringing in of the waters of Tiber would cost, the supply of which would be limited to a small extent of the city. The whole expense of conducting the waters of Rock creek to the Capitol was esti- mated to be about $50,000. The main supply pipe, or conduit, would be very little longer than what would be required to bring the springs of the Tiber to the Capitol. There is another source of supply of water, which may be pointed out, still more abundant than that afforded by Rock creek, equally available, and which might be brought in at an expense probably not greater than either of those stated above; — I allude to the waters of the Potomac, supplied from the Little falls by means of the Chesapeake and Ohio canal, commencing with an elevation of thirty-seven feet above tide, which would furnish a considerable water power to pump into the reservoir, on the adjacent high grounds, the requisite supply to any extent demanded. The location and relative elevation of this reservoir, would command the highest build- ings in the city, and a large portion of Georgetown. The Old Building. 317 The waters of large streams are always to be preferred to those of springs, being softer, more wholesome, and better adapted for culinary purposes: where a choice, therefore, is had, the larger stream should always be given a preference over the smaller, and especially over springs. All which is respectfully submitted, by, gentlemen, yours, &c. Robert Mills. January 13, 1832. E. Estimate for paving, with flagging, the walk from the west gate to the entrance of the Capitol, viz: 7,102 square feet of paving, at $1 87, 102 February 4, 1832. J. Elgar. [House proceedings of Feb. 16, 1832: Register of Debates, 22—1, v. 8, pt. 2, p. 1830.] STATUE OF WASHINGTON. The House proceeded to the consideration of the following resolution, reported from the Committee on the Public Buildings bn the 14th instant: Resolved , That the President of the United States be authorized to employ Horatio Greenough, of Massachusetts, to execute, in marble, a full length pedestrian statue of Washington, to be placed in the centre of the rotundo of the capitol; the head to be a copy of Houdon’s Washington, [in the capitol at Richmond,] and the acces- sories to be left to the judgment of the artist. Mr. Whittlesey moved to lay the resolution on the table; but the motion was negatived without a count. Mr. Jarvis said that, at the close of the revolutionary war, the Congress of the United States, ten States being present by their representatives, had unanimously voted a statue of General Washington, as a testimony of their esteem for his virtues, and the services he had rendered to his country. A resolution had passed unan- imously in 1799, for a monument instead of a statue. In 1800, the monument had been exchanged for a mausoleum. This last resolution had, in effect, proved as fruitful as those which had preceded it. Several of the States had, in the mean- while, showed their sense of Washington’s virtues and services, by erecting statues to his memory. The United States had done nothing but pass resolutions. When we looked round for the statue, the monument, the mausoleum they had ordered, it was not to be seen. These things existed nowhere but in the journals of Congress. It was time that something more effectual should be done. He remembered a proverb he had often heard, that “Brag is a good dog, but Holdfast is a better:” and it was always recalled to his recollection when he thought upon the statue of Wash- ington. He hoped this national reproach would at length be done away, and that this Congress would perform what other Congresses had only promised. Mr. Whittlesey said that, from what had recently taken place, he was led to oppose every proposition for a statue, monument, or mausoleum; and, as he desired to record his vote in the negative, he asked that the question might be decided by yeas and nays. And it was so ordered by the House. Mr. Polk inquired of the committee some information in reference to the artist whose name had been introduced into the resolution. Mr. Dearborn stated, in reply, that the name of Mr. Greenough was better known in Europe than in this country, as he had been abroad for several years. The repu- 318 Documentary History of the Capitol. tation of this artist was not. of the second grade. He was considered as about to become the successor of Canova and of Chantry. Some specimens of the power of his chisel had reached the United States, among which were several busts, and a group, containing two figures, which he had executed from a design by Raphael, at the request of one of our countrymen of distinguished literary reputation, (Mr. Cooper.) This group had been exhibited in several of our largest cities, and had excited the universal admiration of all persons familiar with the fine arts. Mr. D. said he was authorized to say that the greatest sculptor of the present day viewed Greenough as about to become his rival, and destined, if possible, to surpass him. The committee finding that we 2 'jossessed a native citizen capable of producing a work of distinguished excellence, felt themselves bound to give him the preference over all foreigners. Had the case been unfortunately different, then they would have been compelled to look abroad to the sculptors of Europe. No other American sculptor had yet appeared who was fit to be entrusted with the execution of Washington’s statue. Mr. Green- ough had no rival among his countrymen: he stood alone; and, therefore, there was nothing invidious in the introduction of his name into the resolution. Mr. D. said he felt confident that when the work should have been completed, the whole world would consider it not only as honorable to the country, but as conferring immortality upon the artist. Mr. Wayne was not opposed to the object of the resolution; but, as he understood that the group the gentleman had referred to would shortly be brought to this city, he thought it would be better to defer the fixing upon the artist until the members should have had an opportunity to satisfy themselves as to the merit of the indi- vidual proposed. Mr. Carson inquired whether a Mr. Persico had not been employed on some work of this kind. dir. Everett replied that Mr. Persico had been employed by the Government, but upon an entirely different design: the execution of two statues, of war and peace, to fill the two niches on either side of the eastern entrance of the rotundo. The question was now put, and decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays, as follows — yeas 114, nays 50. [Senate proceedings of June 25, 1832: Register of Debates, 22-1, v. 8, pt. 1, p. 1126.] STATUE OF WASHINGTON. The Senate then, on motion of Mr. Robbins, took up for consideration the joint resolution, (as amended by the Committee on the Library, ) authorizing the President to contract for a full length pedestrian statue, in marble, of General Washington, to be placed in the rotundo, with an appropriation of |5,000. Mr. Forsyth inquired the object of this appropriation; if it were contemplated as sufficient for the purpose. As giving a full view of the subject, Mr. Poindexter requested the report of the Library Committee to be read. It detailed the proceedings had in the House of Representatives, where the resolution had originally been adopted, authorizing the employment of Mr. Greenough, the American artist, to execute the work; and con- tained a copy of a letter from the Department of State, informing Mr. Greenough, now in Italy, thereof, with instructions respecting the same; the head to be modeled after that of Houdon’s statue, the rest of the outlines to be left to the artist’s own taste, &c. Mr. Forsyth could see no occasion for the appropriation wffiich had been intro- duced into the resolution; it was a departure from the object of the resolution itself, which was merely for the President “to make a contract.” Itcould not be supposed that |5,000 would be any use, for he believed that a v 7 ork, such as contemplated, could not be had completed for less than 20 or 25,000 dollars. The Old Building. 319 Mr. Poindexter explained. It was not expected that the appropriation would cover the full cost. It was merely to enable the President to take the preliminary steps in making the contract. The general appropriation bill had originally con- tained two appropriations, one in regard to this memorial of Washington, the other in regard to Mr. Jefferson. They had both been stricken out on account of their supposed informality, to be introduced as separate measures. Mr. Miller objected to such appropriations, where the specific sum required was not known. In this mode yearly and indefinite grants would be called for to cover the cost till completed, and it was hard to say where it might end. After some further explanation from Mr. Poindexter and Mr. Chambers, Mr. Clay said that he strongly hoped the resolution would be allowed to be engrossed for a third reading. Of the many illustrious men to whom their country owed a debt of gratitude, Washington was the only one to whom he would think it prudent to pay the homage now contemplated. An image — a testimonial of this great man, the father of his country, should exist in every part of the Union, as a memorial of his patriotism, and of the services rendered his country ; but of all places, it was required in this capital — the centre of the Union — the offspring, the creation, of his mind and of his labors. An appropriation for this individual purpose, atanother period of the session, had been introduced in the general measure, and was afterwards struck out, on the understanding of being brought forward in the present mode. But, even since that time, they had an additional motive for this act. Application for the remains of this great man had been made by the representatives of the nation, to bestow on them a national tribute of honor; and this application had met with a refusal. The death of the proprietor of the spot where those remains rested, had but just taken place; and into whose hands they should now fall — into the possession of a friend or stranger, in the event of a sale of the property or otherwise, it was impos- sible to conjecture; but such being the casualties to which they were liable, it behooved them (the Congress of theUnited States) the more to adopt means to secure a representative of those relics, that might endure for future ages. The resolution had his hearty concurrence, and he hoped it would pass without objection. The question being put on the engrossing for a third reading, the yeas and nays were ordered, on the call of Mr. Hayne, and were as follows: Yeas, * * * 30. Nays, * * * 10. [Ho. of Reps. Rep. No. 495, 22d Congress, 1st session. Alteration of the Hall House of Reps. June 30, 1832. — Read, and laid upon the table.] Mr. Jarvis, from the select committee to which the subject had been referred, made the following report: The select committee, to whom was referred the resolution respecting the altera- tion of the Hall of Representatives, report that they have had the subject under consideration, and have agreed to recommend the following alterations: 1st. The floor to be raised to the level of the foot of the columns which surround the hall. 2d. The chair of the Speaker to be placed near where the principal entrance now is, and the seats of the members to be turned so as to preserve their relative position to the chair. 3d. A circular wall to be built back of the third seat in the gallery. The committee offer, as a part of their report, a communication to the Committee on Public Buildings from Robert Mills, an ingenious architect now in this city, and refer to it for the reasons of the alterations recommended, as well as for an explana- tion of the details of these and other minor alterations therein proposed; and for the purpose of carrying the same into effect, they offer the following resolution: 320 Documentary History of the Capitol. Resolved, That the Commissioner of Public Buildings cause the Hall of Representa- tives to be altered during the recess of Congress, according to the plan of Robert Mills, herewith submitted, and under the superintendence of said Mills; and that the expense be paid out of the contingent fund of the House. City of Washington, February 4, 1832. Gentlemen: In submitting the annexed plans of proposed improvements in the Hall of Representatives, w r ith a view to meeting certain requisitions connected with providing additional accommodations for members’ seats, and increasing the facilities of hearing and speaking, permit me to enter into a brief expose of the principles upon which these plans are founded, previous to entering upon their details. The present plan of the hall is manifestly defective as a hearing and speaking room for forensic or popular debate. This defect was discovered at an early day after its occupancy, and, with a view to remedying it, the draperies suspended between the columns (which now decorate the room) were introduced. These curtains had some effect in lessening the reverberations of sound, but the inconvenience complained of still existed. In the session of 1821, so important was the subject considered, that a committee of twenty-four members was appointed to “ inquire into the practicability of making such alterations in the present structure of the hall of the House of Representatives as shall better adapt it to the purposes of a deliberative assembly.'” The result of the investiga- tion of this committee is contained in a report submitted by the architect of the Capitol, Mr. Bulfineh, who recommended the suspension of a glass ceiling at the foot of the dome, but nothing was done towards testing the merits of this plan; and the evil still being complained of at the following session, the Committee on Public Buildings was instructed to investigate the subject anew, when the architect again reported his views, and, at his suggestion, a cloth covering was stretched across the Hall at the foot of the dome. The effect of this covering was not only to check com- pletely the reflections or echoes from the ceiling, but to darken the Hall so seriously as to induce its immediate removal. Another experiment was tried at the following session, which went to reduce the dimensions of the hall. A partition was made between the columns back of the Speaker’s chair, so as to exclude the prostyle; but no good effect was experienced from this measure, “and the partition was removed after a week’s trial.” In 1826, the subject of grievance in the hall was renewed, and “the Secretaries of State and War and the Attorney General” were requested to act as a board of inspection on the contemplated improvement during the recess of Congress; and should any plan be approved, that the same should be carried into execution. A professional gentleman of Philadelphia (Mr. Strickland) was called in to the aid of the architect of the Capitol to devise plans of improvement, who, after a consulta- tion, recommended “the suspension of a flat ceiling of lath and plaster over the whole area of the hall, within the columns, and upon a level with the stone cornice.” Nothing, however, was done towards carrying this plan into execution, and it was not until 1828 that the subject was again agitated; but no satisfactory solution of the difficulty in question being given to warrant the committee to recommend the construction of a flat ceiling, and thereby destroy the beauty of the hall, no report w'as made to the House. Passing through Washington in 1821, I was requested by the architect of the Cap- itol, and subsequently (1827) by the Secretary of State, to give an opinion on the causes of the difficulty of hearing in the hall, and the means of remedying the defect. On these requisitions, I submitted two papers on the subject to these gentlemen, OLD HALL OF REPRESENTATIVES, SOUTHWEST VIEW. The Old Building. 321 wherein was discussed the theory of acoustics, (as regards the laws of sound,) and the application of its principles to the peculiar circumstances of the Hall of Repre- sentatives: explanatory diagrams accompanied these papers, showing the design of the room, and the practical effect of two modifications of plan. These papers were referred to by the architect of the Capitol in his last report; but, laying down a theory totally at variance with that he had assumed as the correct one, they were never brought forward. On a visit which I made the Seat of Government in 1830, I took the liberty of calling the attention of the House to the substance of my communication to the Secretary of State in 1827, which was referred to a committee; who, after investigat- ing the plan submitted, made a favorable report to the House. With a view, in part, to test the correctness of the principle upon which the proposed improvements were based, a temporary partition was directed to be constructed in the gallery, so as to form an unbroken line of wall behind the columns and parallel therewith. A very sensible difference, both in hearing and speaking, was experienced by the members and audience from the execution of this part of the plan, though of a tem- porary character. Another essential part of the design could not be tested during the sitting of the House, namely — raising the floor; but the committee was satisfied that it would be effective in its operations to answer the object in question. The House not making any appropriation for carrying the plan reported by the com- mittee into execution, the partition which had been put up was taken down in the recess, and the hall restored to its original state as it now stands. This circum- stance will enable those who were members of the House in the last Congress to judge of the difference in effect between the two modifications of plan. Every day’s experience satisfies me of the correctness of that theory I have advo- cated, associated with the conveyance of sound, and upon which I have based all my plans of rooms intended for the accommodation of deliberative bodies. The opportunities which I have had of testing the principles of this theory by actual practice, in the construction of several rooms of large • dimensions, (one of which is greater in area than the Hall of Rejwesentatives, ) enable me to speak with confi- dence on this subject; and I therefore do not hesitate in saying that it is jorac- ticable to give to the present hall all the advantages in hearing and speaking of which it is susceptible. The plan of the Hall of Representatives was adopted as the best form of room to answer the damands of a deliberative assembly. This form was selected by the French government for its Chamber of Deputies on the recommendation of the most eminent architects of France. The theatres both of Greece and Rome were all on the semicircular plan; and in the construction of our modern theatres, the same form is adopted. In the execution of the plan of the Hall of Representatives some radical errors were committed, which have almost defeated the object of its design. The first error was the breaking of the circular line of wall by running the colonnade above; and in addition to this, breaking the circular line of wall back of these columns into irregular surfaces. The second error consisted in sinking the floor or raising the dome beyond their proper relative position to each other. The third error lies in the location of the Speaker’s chair, and consequently the seats of the members. To remedy the first error, I have proposed to construct a wall behind the third seat in the galleries, so as to keep up the circular line complete and parallel to that of the columns. By reference to my letter, printed by order of the House in 1830, accompanied by diagrams of explanation, the reasons upon which this part of the plan was based will be seen. Sound being subject to the same general laws which govern light, viz: radiating from a centre every way from its original source, and subject to reflection and refraction, H. Rep. (IdG 21 322 Documentary History of the Capitol. it follows that, in the construction of a room for speaking or hearing to the best advantage, the form should be such as to give the greatest number of consonant echoes; or. in other words, that as few of the rays of sound (or reflections of the voice) should cross each other as practicable. Now, the circular form is that best adapted to produce the fewest dissonant echoes, and to give the most distinct sound of what is spoken. By examining the diagrams attached to my printed letter, the operations of tire voice, under both modifications of plan, will be made manifest, and the reason why there is less confusion in the original sound from the arrange- ment of plan No. 2, to what is experienced by the arrangement of plan No. 1. The explanations affixed to the diagrams are so explicit that I need not trouble the com- mittee further on this head. The second error, which consists in the too great loftiness of the room, I have proposed to remedy by raising the floor to the general level of that of the prostyle behind the Speaker’s chair, or as high as would be consistent with propriety, having reference to the columns encompassing the hall. It is a fundamental principle in acoustics, that, where a room to speak in (to be distinctly heard) is covered with a domical or cylindrical ceiling, the point describ- ing the curve line of the same must be below the ear of the Speaker or hearer; and if this point is below the floor, the ear will be less sensible of the return of the voice. If this rule is not attended to, and the point describing the curve is above the ear of the Speaker, the ring of echoes or reflected sounds from this ceiling will cross each other above the ear, and produce a sensible echo. That the point describing the dome of the hall is above the floor, is proved by standing in the axis and centre of the plan of the room, (just in front of the Clerk’s desk,) and stamping the foot or clapping the hands; for a distinct repetition of the original sound will be heard. The rotundo of the Capitol exhibits a striking example of the truth of this position. Any attempt to speak in this room results in the utter confusion of the voice, simply because the point which describes the dome is elevated so high (being on the top of the great cornice) that the rays of sound striking the dome are reflected, and (as soon as they pass the cornice level) cross each other, and then are subject again to reflection from the walls, so that by the time they reach the ear, the original sound is broken and scattered in various directions, striking the ear at sensible moments of time. Could we elevate ourselves so as to stand on a level with the cornice or spring of the dome, and there speak, the voice would be found distinct, strong, and clear. At this level were a light enclosure constructed, this dome would be one of the most perfect whispering galleries in the world — equal to that of St. Paul’s, London, famed in the annals of travellers. It is to be regretted that we should be deprived of witnessing so great a curiosity as this splendid expanse of dome presents, and which is so •well calculated to develop the theory of sound, when it is in our power to enjoy it by the construction of a simple balustrading or enclosed walk ' around the circle on the top of the great cornice, and opening a communication with it through one of the stairways above. Permit me to call the attention of the committee to this interesting subject. I come now to the third fundamental error in the plan of the hall — namely, the location of the Speaker's chair, and consequently those of the members. From the facts and reasonings previously stated and referred to, it will readily be seen, by examining the plan, that the Speaker’s chair is exactly in the reversed p>osi- tion to ivhere it ought to stand. If it is true that a circular surface of wall is better adapted for the transmission of sound than the straight surface — which cannot be doubted, except we will not receive the testimony of ancient and modern practice in the construction of rooms expressly designed for public speaking, for these invariably are found to assume the circular form — therefore, if this circular line is broken in any way, a proportionate defect arises in the capacity of the room to support the Drawing N‘.’l OF THE PLAN OF THE HALL OF REPRESENTATIVES as it now is. with a Diagram lo the explanations References.— The dotted. Lines /. /, t$u: emanating frvrro the. point or Speaker L represent the primary or original rays of sound.,- the, dotted lines 2.2, At. forming angles with the first hues at the point where they impinge, against the walls, represent the secondary or reflected rays of sound, .--the stars at certain points of dvtmecOmc of the reflected rays, represent,, the number of 'disonant echoes, produced from the, above, number of primary rays The Old Building. 323 voice and convey it distinctly to the ear; and it also follows that in speaking, the direction of the voice should be towards the circular surface, and not the straight. If we refer to the position of the speakers in theatres, we will find that they all speak to the circle; and if we examine the legislative hall of France, (which we have said was of a similar form to our hall, ) we will find that the orator speaks to the circle, the tribune from whence he speaks being located expressly to meet this necessity. The evi- dence of the fact that speakers should speak to the circle is to be found in our own hall, for it is only when they do this that the voice is comparatively distinctly heard; and it is well known that little or no difficulty occurs in hearing what is said from the chair or from the Clerk’s desk. These facts are sufficient to satisfy us of the propriety and advantage of reversing the present arrangement of the Speaker’s chair anut by the slow process of a writ of trespass. To provide a more summary remedy, Congress, at their last session, authorized the corporation of Washington to extend their regulations, for the preservation of the public peace and order, to all the public buildings and public grounds within the city of Washington, whenever the applica- tion of the same should 1 >e requested by the Commissioner of Public Buildings. In conformity with the act of Congress, the corporate authorities of Washington did, at the request of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, extend their regulations to all the public buildings and public grounds within the city of Washington; and declared that any person guilty of disorderly and unlawful conduct in or about the same, or who should wilfully injure the buildings, trees, or shrubs, or should pull down, impair, or otherwise injure any fence, wall, or other enclosure, or should injure any sink, culvert, pipe, hydrant, cistern, lamp, or bridge, or should remove any stone, gravel, sand, or other property of the United States, on any part of the public grounds or lots belonging to the United States within the city of Washington, should, upon con- viction thereof before a single magistrate, be fined a sum not less than five or more than twenty dollars, to be collected and applied as other fines are; and they further declared that if any person should tie, or in any manner fasten any horse, mule, or other animal, to any of the trees, boxes, or other protections thereof, on any of the public grounds belonging to the United States in the city of Washington, or should drive any cart, wagon, or other carriage whatever, on any of the paved or gravelled footways in and on any of the aforesaid public grounds, or should ride thereon, except at the intersections of streets and avenues, that each and every offender should forfeit and pay for every offence a sum not less than one or more than five dollars, to be recovered and applied as aforesaid. This act of the corporation will, it is believed, afford great protection to the public property. * * * Estimates of the appropriations necessary for the alterations and repairs of the public buildings, and for the improvement of the public grounds, have been laid before the Committee on Public Buildings. Respectfully, your obedient servant, W. Noland, Commissioner of Public Buildings. Hon. the Speaker of the House of Representatives. The Old Building. 329 A. Appropriations and expenditures for 1834- Heads of appropriations. Appropria- tions ex- pended and paid. Alterations and repairs of the Capitol, including the repairs of the roof Laying pipes for the purpose of draining the east and west reservoirs Salary of the gardener employed in superintending the Capitol square and other public grounds Lighting lamps, keeping the grounds and walks in order, and planting in the Capitol square and adjacent public grounds * * * 85, 359 26 2,309 82? 916 66 4, 399 48i Completing waterworks at the President’s house, the Executive Buildings, and the Capitol Excess of expenditures beyond the appropriations made by the late Commissioner of Public Buildings during the last year Construction of an ornamental hydrant of marble at the west fountain in front of the Capitol , * * * 571 69i 22, 756 81? 1, 021 77 B. Capitol, November 1, 1834- Sir: The work in re-covering the principal dome is finished, and there is every reason to believe that the purpose for which the re-covering was ordered has been effected, viz. stopping the leaks which were making rapid progress in injuring the walls in that part of the building. In covering the roofs with copper, there were two different modes adopted. The first was to cover the joints of the sheet with prepared battens of wood, fastened with large screws through the copper into the sheathing boards. The second mode was to fasten the copper to the sheathing hoards, with straps and small screws, and then to form a double turned joint with the edges of the sheets; consequently requir- ing no pierced holes through the external surface of the copper, by which the rain could find its way into the building. I have, after minute attention and long experi- ence, discovered the latter mode to be much superior to the former, so much so, that ever since the roofs of the west projection of the centre building were covered, (all with the double joints,) there has not a leak come under my notice, except from accidental causes, such as the overflowing of the gutters by the accumulation of the ice and snow during the winter; whilst the domes which were covered after the former mode, or with battens, have leaked. The difference between the old and new modes of putting on the copper was very striking during the progress of the work. In heavy rains the new work was quite dry underneath, while the water poured in, in every direction, from the old, occa- sioned by the expansion of the copper, which caused the wooden battens that were placed longitudinally over the single joints of the copper to spring and draw out the screws. The new work has been executed faithfully, to the best of my knowledge, and with the strictest attention to economy. Intermixing the new copper with the old was done for various reasons: 1st. It was thought that the new would bind the old in some degree. 2d. It enabled us to carry on the work to better advantage, and, at the same time, ensure the object of keeping the interior of the dome dry during the progress of the work. It was very little more trouble to arrange it systematically than otherwise. I would beg leave to suggest that a due regard to the preservation of the building, and to economy, would require that some arrangement be made for having the snow removed during the winter from the gutters on the roof. In cases of sudden rains after snow, when the gutters are blocked up, the water is dammed back and over- flows upon the roof; this is attended with many bad consequences; among others, 330 Documentary History of the Capitol. causing leaks where there would he none. It the snows were speedily removed, and a free passage given to the water, many of the repairs which are annually necessary, and are expensive in themselves, would be prevented. If a man of judgment were appointed to superintend this work, no injury what- ever would be done to the copper, &e. by the workmen who might be employed. I am, dear sir, yours, with respect, Pringle Slight, Superintendent. To Major Noland, Commissioner of Public Buildings. C. Washington, December 4, 1834. Sir: I have the honor to report to you that the cast iron pipes laid from the bottom of the east and west reservoirs at the Capitol, for the purpose of draining out the water and sediment when found necessary for their purification, are now com- pleted. The utmost care has been observed in the selection of good pipes, and the manner in which they have been joined together; as also in their connexion with the walls of the reservoirs, which had to be cut through, and the openings rebuilt, which has been done in a substantial manner, and so as to prevent any leak therefrom. The simplest method has been adopted in the construction of the valves for draw- ing off the water, and has proven to answer remarkably well; at the same time great care has been taken to guard the reservoirs from injury, either wilful or accidental, by placing a valve at the receiving and discharging end of the pixies of each reservoir. The water of the east reservoir, when necessary to be cleansed, is conveyed into the cellar of the south wing of the Capitol, to a point where there is a common sewer which passes through* the building; the outlet of which is below the Caxiitol, on the north side of Pennsylvania avenue, near the Tiber creek. The water of the west reservoir is discharged, at a distance of about fifty feet, into a common sewer likewise, from whence it is conveyed in a drain across Pennsylvania avenue, where it is left unprovided for, to find its way, along the south side of the Botanic Garden, into the Washington City canal. I would beg leave to recommend to your notice the waste pixie at Tiber creek, and the one on the north side of the red hill, also the air pipe on the top of the red hill, (on the main line of x>ipes from Mr. Smith’s spring to the Capitol,) as being in a very unprotected state. Their contiguity to the public road, their exposure to pub- lic view, and the easy access by which they can be approached, render them striking objects for injury to evil disposed persons. As these waste xnpes are useful and necessary, and cannot be dispensed with, I would recommend that they be protected in a similar manner to the one constructed at the outlet of the cleansing pixie at the bottom of the west reservoir, which will effectually guard them from injury, accidental or designed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Rich’d Holdsworth. Major Wm. Noland, Commissioner of Public Buildings. D. Effingham, December 17, 1834- Sir: A year or two back I sold to Mr. Elgar, your predecessor in office, as much pure spring water as he might, upon reflection and consultation, conceive to be nec- The Old Building. 331 essary for the use of the Capitol, to be taken from springs here on my farm; by uniting three or four, it was ascertained they would yield about ninety gallons a minute, with an elevation sufficient to throw the water into either House of Con- gress. Mr. Elgar built his reservoirs with a view to that quantity, and laid his pipes (six inches bore) proportionably large; but for some sufficient cause, I presume, not- withstanding the large scale on which the works were completed, he determined to take but one of my springs, and that a small one, yielding only sixteen gallons a minute; this quantity, 1 understood during the past summer and fall, was insufficient to keep the water pure, and constantly running in the two reservoirs, and, conse- quently, 1 gave permission to Mr. Holdsworth to throw other springs into the reser- voir here; he did so, and has informed me the discharge now at the Capitol is about thirty-eight or forty gallons a minute. I have been anxious to see you since this change, but have been too much engaged, and now write to say to you that you may have the same privilege I gave to Mr. Elgar, that is, to take whatever quantity you may think necessary, upon terms reasonable and fair. With great respect, yours, &c. Jno. A. Smith. Wm. Noland, Esc. * * * [From the “Act making appropriations for the civil and diplomatic expenses of government for the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty-five,” approved Mar. 3, 1835. (Stats, at Large, v. 4, 770.)] For alterations and repairs in the Capitol, including the domes of the chambers of the Senate and House of Representatives, replacing and renewing the copper of the same, and painting the ceiling of the Rotundo, twelve thousand live hundred dollars. [House of Representatives Doc. No. 97, 24th Congress, 1st Session. Report of the Commissioner of Public Buildings. Feb. 1, 1836. — Read, and laid upon the table.J Office of Commissioner of Public Buildings, December 18, 1835. Sir: In compliance with the act of Congress, passed March 3, 1829, entitled “An act making appropriations for the public buildings and other purposes,” I have the honor to report, that the expenditures on the public buildings, and other objects committed to my charge, during the present year, have been as follow: For alterations and repairs of the Capitol, the domes of the chambers of the Senate and House of Representatives, and replacing and renewing the copper of the same $12, 345 89 For salary of the gardener employed in superintending the Capitol square, and other public grounds 916 66 For lighting lamps, and keeping the grounds and walks in order, includ- ing the cost of trees and shrubs 4, 333 674 For protection of the waste water pipes, and air pipe of the aqueduct of the Capitol, and repairs of the pipes 521 55| ' * * * For preparing the niches for the reception of the statues, at the east front of the Capitol 460 00 For repairing the culvert at the west front of the Capitol 322 42] * * * 332 Documentary History of the Capitol. It gives me pleasure to state that the expenditures do not exceed the appropria- tions; and that there will he in my hands, on the 31st instant, when the operations of the year will be brought to a close, a balance to be placed to the credit of the United States. The United States will also be credited with the sum of $2,022 12 for scrap copper, sold on their account. The alterations and repairs required to be made, under the several appropriations, have been duly attended to, and faithfully executed. The Capitol has undergone several necessary repairs and improvements. The most important improvement has been the replacing and renewing the copper on the roofs of the north and south wings, which were in so leaky a condition, from the defective mode of covering, as to endanger the safety of the building. The letter marked A, from the master workman, explains the manner in which the work has been executed, and suggests several improvements, to which I beg leave, respectfully, to call the attention of the honorable body over which you preside. * ■Jf -jf Estimates of the appropriations necessary for the alterations and repairs of the public buildings, and for the improvement of the public grounds, will be laid before the proper committee. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, William Noland, Commissioner of Public Buildings. Hon. the Speaker of the House of Representatives. A. Capitol, November 9, 1835. Sir: Having completed the work of re-coppering the roofs on the two wings of the Capitol, I have the pleasure of reporting that fact to you. I am also gratified to be enabled to state, that the many difficulties which presented themselves throughout the progress of the work, have been overcome, and that the work has been well and faithfully executed, and in its progress and accomplishment a strict attention has been paid to the public interest. In the progress of the work, the timber, in some parts of the roof, was found to be in a very decayed state; this was more particularly the case over the principal stair- way leading up to the Senate chamber. From that part alone, we took out and removed several cart loads, and supplied its place with timber well seasoned, and of good quality. As regards that portion of the roof over the principal stairway, and entrance to the Representatives Hall, (an areaaf about 80 feet by 30,) it becomes my duty to inform you, that I discovered accidentally that the timbers are also so decayed and rotten, as to render their removal and the substitution of new timber absolutely indispensa ble, but the season was so far advanced before this discovery was made, that it was deemed imprudent to risk the uncovering of it. A third part of the curb around the base of the cupola or lantern, over the Repre- sentatives Hall, was also completely decayed. It has been removed, and replaced with good and sound timber. A platform has been laid for the protection of the copper covering of the flat roof over the west portico. I would here also take the liberty to suggest that, something more might be done for the preservation of the internal structure of the principal dome. The four projecting courses of freestone, and top surface of the cornice, that sur- rounds the external base of the dome, might be coppered. It would, it is believed, The Old Building. 338 be a very great, if not an effectual preventive against the dampness that has been working secretly, but effectually searching its way through the walls and ceiling, to the serious and almost irreparable injury to the building. I refer you to the section showing the external and internal dome, which accompanies this letter. Painting the copper white would prevent it being detected by the eye, so that the appearance, when viewed from the ground, would not be affected. I would likewise suggest, during the next spring, and even in the summer months, that fires be kept steadily in the furnaces (for heating the rotundo) to dry out the dampness that still remains, and will long continue to remain, within the walls. Until the walls of the rotundo become perfectly dry, it would be injudicious to repair the ceiling. The public convenience sustains serious injury for the want of a suitable out-build- ing, to be used as a work shop, in the different branches of mechanics necessarily employed about so extensive, and magnificent a building as the Capitol, and I would respectfully suggest the expediency and propriety of the erection of such a building. It is necessary, also, as a place of safe keeping and deposite, for much valuable public property, materials, and working tools. As various professions are almost constantly required to perform mechanic’s work about the Capitol during the sessions of Congress. And in winter, if workmen are exposed to the piercing cold, they cannot do justice to the public, while their health is frequently injured. The work shops now made use of, are not only unfit for the protection of workmen from the weather, but are unsafe as a depository for the public property: they are mere open sheds, long since built, and are now rotting down. I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant, Prixgle Slight, Master Workman. To Major William Noland, Commissioner of Public Buildings. [House proceedings of May 11, 1836: Register of Debates, 24 — 1, v. 12, pt. 3, p. 3617.] REPRESENTATIVES’ HALL. Mr. Mercer asked leave to submit a motion to direct the select committee of twenty- four, to which was referred an inquiry into the proper mode of managing contested elections before the House, to ascertain whether a better hall for the purposes of a deliberative body than the present hall of Representatives can be provided within the Capitol, and have leave to report by bill or otherwise. Mr. M. obtained leave to make a short statement, which he thought would satisfy the House that the resolution ought to tie adopted. He said he had gone to the hall of the Library with an experienced architect, and had examined the rooms and the walls, and he found that a room could be provided there, of the dimensions of ninety feet by fifty. He said the chord of the circle of the present House was ninety feet, and the space occupied by the House was about fifty feet deep. He was satisfied that a hall could be made where the Library now is, as good and convenient for a deliberative assembly as could be devised if a Capitol was about to be constructed anew; and he hoped the resolution would be adopted, that the House might have the report of a committee upon the subject. Objections being made to acting upon the proposition at this time, Mr. Mercer moved that the rules be suspended for the purpose of acting upon it; and the question being taken, there appeared: Ayes 97, noes 49 — not quite two thirds. 334 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House of Representatives Doc. No. 266, '24th Congress, 1st Session. New Hall House of Representa- tives. .June 1, 1836. — Laid before the House, and ordered to be printed.] Washington, May 28, 1836. Dear Sir: That you might have a better view of the arrangement of plan for a new hall upon the site of the library room, I have the honor to lay before you the accompanying drawings. It will be seen, that but a small portion of the corridor would be required to add to the necessary width for the hall, so that ample space for lobbies would remain on each side. The line of the present wall of the library is from A to B, and the stair cases at A and B are the same as now exist in this room. The stone steps which now occupy that part of the corridor near the entrance of the library room, are represented on the plan as removed to the outside, in the covert, so that they would answer the same purposes they do now, and provide a spacious way to the galleries of the House. The desks in the drawing are represented con- secutive with the main line of wall, and it will be found to be in every respect most convenient and economical of space: the main galleries will be better accommodated around the circle than along the diameter line. As it is proposed to have a large lantern or sky light in the ceiling of the hall, the windows to the west may, if required, lie skreened. The inlets to the hall are both numerous and convenient. The location of the clerk’s rooms, and the position which the other officers of the House may occux>y, are sketched on the plan, by which it will be seen that as many conveniences are afforded the House in this location as in the other. Some niches are thrown in around the circle of the wall, in their thickness, •which may be appropriated to the reporters, or reserved for settees. A section of the hall is represented in one of the drawings, wdiich will give you an idea of the proportion of the room under the elevation contemplated, which is but twenty feet to the spring of the ceiling, and to this is given the slight curvature of five feet, making the whole height of the room several feet less than half the heighth of the p resent hall. A line is marked on this drawing to show the present height of the ceilings of the library room. The space left between the two ceilings would be sufficient to furnish many useful rooms, such as a library room for the house, folding rooms, document rooms, &c. In the drawing, the disposition of the desks are seen, as also the galleries. Upon the plan will be found the comparative areas of the new and present hall. By reducing the width of the present desks a little, and substi- tuting a lighter and smaller chair to each, (both of which may be done without less- ening the comfort of the members, ) the same accommodation or number of desks may be obtained upon the new arrangement. A lobby of six feet is afforded back of the outer range of desks, and of eight feet to that in front of the clerk’s desk. Three feet four inches are given for the width of the platform of each desk, and there are eight ranges of these, which may afford 250 seats. The promenade furnished by the western colonnade is more than equivalent to the loggia in the present hall. Thus the same accommodations may be obtained by the new arrangement, which are now furnished by the existing hall, with a difference of space or area for the travel of the voice of nearly one-half; and this reduced again nearly one-half by the reduction in the height of the two ceilings. All these circum- stances must effect a very important change in favor of the new room, as respects the comfort of speaking and hearing. It will be seen, also, that the execution of this plan will not be either difficult or expensive, neither will it require any great length of time to accomplish. All which is respectfully submitted, by, dear sir, Yours, &c. The Hon. Charles F. Mercer. Eobert Mills. OLD HALL OF REPRESENTATIVES, NORTH VIEW. I I The Old Building. 335 [From the “Act in addition to the act [entitled ‘An act making appropriations, in part, for the sup- port of Government, for the year eighteen hundred and thirty-six, and for other purposes,’’’ approved July 4, 1836. (Stats, at Large, v. 5, 114.)] For alterations and repairs of the Capitol, including repairs of the roof over the principal stairway to the Representatives’ hall, and coppering the projecting steps and top surface of the cornice round the base of the dome of the rotunda, six thousand three hundred and eighteen dollars and seventy-five cents. [House of Representatives. Rep. No. 294. 24th Congress, 2d Session. Paintings for the rotundo. February 28, 1837.— Read, and laid upon the table.] Mr. McKeon, from the Select Committee to which the subject had been referred, made the following report: The select committee, to which was referred the resolution of the 23d June, 1836, that a joint committee be appointed to contract with one or more competent American artists for the execution of four historical pictures, upon subjects serving to illustrate the discovery of America, the settlement of the United States, the history of the revolution, or the adoption of the constitution, to be placed in the vacant panels of the rotundo, the subject to be left to the choice of the artists, under the control of the committee, report: They have applied to Messrs. Vanderlyn, Wier, Inman, and Chapman, to under- take the execution of the said paintings. Two of these gentlemen have agreed to accept the trust, and there is but little doubt that the other two will also undertake the task. The committee have agreed that a fair compensation should be allowed to the artists engaged in this national work. Great labor and some time will be required for a proper execution of the pictures. Intended, as they are, for monuments as well of the state of the arts in this country at the present period, as for memorials of important events connected with the history of the nation, liberal support ought to be extended to tho- e to be employed by the Government. The committee have agreed to allow ten thousand dollars for each picture, and recommend that two thou- sand dollars for each lie appropriated at the present session. This plan of partial payment was practised in the case of the paintings now in the rotundo; as the artists necessarily will be subjected to some expense, it has been deemed just to give them a portion of the amount to be paid for the several works. [From the annual report of Robert Mills, Architect of the Public Buildings, Dec. 1, 1837. (25 — 2, House Doc. No. 28.)] Washington, December 1, 1837. Sir: The progress made in the public buildings under my charge, during the last season, has been considerable, evincing a zeal and industry in the operatives on those works creditable to them, and advantageous to the public interests. * * * The Capitol . — The various improvements and alterations directed by Congress to be made in this building, under my charge, have been all completed, namely, enlarging the space of the library of the House, and document room, and making them, with the folding-room, post office, and sergeant-at-arms’ rooms, fire proof; enclosing the crypt with sashed doors, and guarding all the external outlets by double doors, so as to render the whole of the interior of the Capitol more comfortable during the winter. Documentary History of the Capitol . 386 But. a general system of warming this building is much required, and a plan for this purpose will be submitted. * * * Respectfully submitted. Robert Mills, Architect of the Public Buildings. William Noland, Esq., Commissioner of the Public Buildings. [Prom the “Act making appropriations for the civil and diplomatic expenses of Government for the year eighteen hundred and thirty-eight,” approved Apr. 6, 1838. (Stats, at Large, v. 5, 222.)] For alterations and repairs of the Capitol, and incidental expenses, six thousand three hundred and thirty-one dollars. [Prom the “Act for the relief of Chastelain and Ponvert, and for other purposes,” approved July 21, 1840. (Stats, at Large, v. 6, 815.)] For cost of preparing suitable foundation for supporting the Colossal Statue of Washington, in the centre of the rotunda of the Capitol, two thousand dollars. [House proceedings of Dec. 18, 1840: Congressional Globe, 26—2, p. 39.] Mr. Wm. Cost Johnson moved that when the House adjourned, it adjourn to Mon- day next. Mr. J. observed that some time would be required to repair and replace the seats, which had been damaged by the fall of the chandelier. He hoped, there- fore, that, the motion would be concurred in. The question being taken, it was decided in the affirmative. [House proceedings of Dec. 23, 1840: Congressional Globe, 26 — 2, p. 52.] On motion of Mr. McClellan, Resolved, That the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds inquire whether the falling of the chandelier in the hall of the House was caused by a defect in work- manship and construction; and also whether any money has been paid by the Clerk, and if not, whether any ought to be paid, to the constructor of the chandelier. [House of Representatives, Rep. No. 70, 26th Congress, 2d session. Palling of the chandelier. Jan. 6, 1841. — Read, and concurred in by the House.] Mr. Leonard, from the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, made the following report: The Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, to whom were referred certain inquiries as to the “falling of the chandelier,” and other matters in relation thereto, by resolution of the House, adopted December 23, 1840, in the following words: On motion of Mr. McClellan, Resolved, That the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds inquire whether the falling of the chandelier, in the hall of the House, was caused by a defect in the workmanship and construction; and, also, whether any money has been paid by the Clerk, and, if not, whether any ought to be paid the constructor of the chandelier, OLD HALL OF REPRESENTATIVES. The Old Building. 337 Beg leave to report that, on referring to the journal of the last session, page 818, they find the following: House of Representatives, Friday , April 24, 1840. The House proceeded to the consideration of the resolution reported by Mr. Lincoln, on the 4th April instant, from the Committee on Public Buildings, which resolution was read and agreed to, and is as follows: Resolved, That the Clerk of this House be directed to procure, under instructions from the Committee on Public Buildings, a chandelier of suitable description, and of sufficient size and capacity, for the hall of the House of Representatives, and to be of American manufacture; and that, when procured, the Commissioner of Public Buildings cause the same to be securely and properly suspended in the hall for use. In compliance with this resolution, the committee, as appears from the following extracts from their minutes, entered immediately upon the discharge of the duty imposed : House of Representatives, Committee-room of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, May 8, 1840. Whereas the House of Representatives, at the present session, on a report of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, adopted a resolution “that the Clerk of this House be directed to procure, under instructions from the Committee on Pub- lic Buildings, a chandelier, of suitable description, and of sufficient size and capacity, for the hall of the House of Representatives, and to be of American manufacture; and that, when procured, the Commissioner of Public Buildings cause the same to be securely and properly suspended in the hall for use:” Now, therefore, in execu- tion of said order, Be it resolved by said committee, That the Clerk be, and he is hereby, instructed to contract with Messrs. Henry N. Hooper & Co., of Boston, Massachusetts, to manu- facture a glass chandelier, with lamps and plain shades, conforming mainly in plan and pattern to the design of the largest size exhibited by the said Hooper & Co. to the inspection of said committee, and referred to in their written communication on the same subject, with such modifications and improvements in the arrangement of parts and manner of finish as the judgment and taste of the artists shall approve, and so constructed as to admit of adaptation, at the least expense, to the use of chemical oil, or for gas, if the House shall hereafter so direct; and that the Commissioner of Public Buildings cause the same, under the personal superintendence and direction of the said Hooper & Co., in reference to position, elevation, and safety, to be prop- erly suspended for use in the hall of the House of Representatives, as soon as the work may be fitly accomplished, and previous to the commencement of the next session of Congress. Levi Lincoln, Chairman Com. Pub. Buildings, House of Reps. In pursuance, then, of the order of the House and the instructions of the com- mittee, the Clerk entered into a written contract with Messrs. Henry N. Hooper & Co., of Boston, for the chandelier. The committee have examined that contract, and have come to the conclusion that its provisions have been fully complied with. As to the falling of the chandelier, the committee have only to say that they con- sider it as one of those casualties incident to all material things, and which, like almost every one that occurs, it is easy to see how it might have been avoided when too late. It appears, however, that the utmost caution was used to submit the materials of the chandelier to very severe tests before they were suspended, and no effort was spared to give every assurance of its safety, as will appear from the fol- lowing letter to the committee by Messrs. Hooper & Co. : Gentlemen: We wish to lay before you some facts relative to the construction of the unfortunate chandelier, to show to you that we spared no time, care, or expense, II. Rep. 646 22 338 Documentary History of the Capitol. to make such an article as would be creditable to the place it was to occupy, and to ourselves as constructors. The whole weight of the chandelier, with the suspending-rod was 3,408 lbs. Of which, the lamp weighed 546 lbs. the oil 144 “ shades and chimneys _ 117 “ 807 lbs. Weight of balance-ball was — brass and iron 255 lead 3, 448 3, 703 Weight of chandelier and balance 7, 111 lbs. The most important object for us to ascertain was the size of the chain suitable to suspend the same safely. We consulted various authors on the subject, and also made some experiments for further proof; which satisfied us, before we adopted the size of the chain. We then had the iron made expressly for the chain, by the Boston Iron Company. The chain, of the size we adopted, is stated to sustain, single strand, 2,619 pounds; which, fourfold, as was used on the chandelier, is 10,476 pounds — this being but one-third of what the metal is stated to sustain; but it is considered the safe load. After the chains were completed, they were proved by sustaining 4,200 pounds on single strand; which, fourfold, is 16,800 pounds; and it sustained that weight without alteration. The amount of weight such a chain is stated to sustain, taking the lowest estimate, is 31,000 pounds fourfold. All of the rivets are made of cast-steel; which is proved to sustain, in comparison with wrought iron, as 5 is to 13. We apprehend, gentlemen, that it will be found, on investigation, that the result of the destruction of the chandelier was owing to other causes than not sufficient strength of materials, or quality of workmanship; and that it resulted from those causes over which we could have no control. Yours, respectfully, Henry N. Hooper & Co. To the Committee on Public Buildings. Upon inquiry, the committee find that no money has been paid by the Clerk to the constructors. The remaining materials of the chandelier are valued at $400, which Messrs. Hooper & Co. are willing to take back. In view of all the circumstances, the committee have come to the conclusion to recommend to the House a strict compliance with the contract before referred to, by directing the Clerk to pay over to Messrs. Hooper & Co. such balance as may be coming to them, after deducting the $400 aforesaid. All of which is respectfully submitted. [From the annual report of Robert Mills, Architect of the Public Buildings, Dec. 15, 1840, transmitted with the annual report of W. Noland, Commissioner of Public Buildings, communicated Jan. 13, 1841. (26 — 2, House Doc. No. 58.)] THE FOUNDATIONS OF TPIE STATUE OF WASHINGTON. According to the act of Congress requiring suitable foundations to be prepared, to receive the statue of Washington, to be placed in the centre of the rotundo of the Capitol, I have, under the instructions of the honorable the Secretary of the Navy, to whom this subject was referred, caused very substantial foundations to be laid, to receive this colossal statue — weighing, with its pedestal, 30 tons. H. Rep. 6-J6 — 58-2. SOUTHWEST VIEW OF THE OLD CAPITOL, 1840. The Old Budding. 339 As these foundations had to be commenced on those constituting the tomb of Washington, below the crypt, (constructed when the foundations of the rotundo were laid, ) I examined these thoroughly, took up the stone floor of the crypt at this point, and worked down to the solid masonry around the vault. In the design of this foundation for the statue, I have made it comport with the architecture of the crypt, leaving the thoroughfare at the four cardinal points of the centre uninterrupted; the half points being only closed, and here presenting large niches for the reception of statues, or tripods for lamps. Respectfully submitted: Robert Mills, Architect of the Public Buildings. The Commissioner op the Public Buildings. [From the “Act legalizing and making appropriations for such necessary objects as have been usually included in the general appropriation hills without authority of law, and to fix and pro- vide for certain incidental expenses of the Departments and offices of the Government, and for other purposes,” approved Aug. 26, 1842. (Stats, at Large, v. 5, 532.)] For taking down and removing the two furnaces beneath the Hall of the House of Representatives, and building three new ones on the floor beneath the crypt, exca- vating a coal vault, constructing additional flues for hot and cold air for the better ventilation of the Hall and passages, nine thousand six hundred and thirty-four dollars. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 2, 1843; Congressional Globe, 27-3, p. 381.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the civil and diplomatic bill for 1844 — Mr. Evans moved (on the recommendation of the Library Committee) an amend- ment appropriating $5,000 for removing the statue of Washington from the rotundo in the Capitol, to the east side of the Capitol grounds, with a view of placing it on a pedestal, under shelter, and in a proper position. Mr. King adverted to the several propositions at first made for placing the statue in the rotundo, ancl also his original proposition to place it in the public grounds. He had at first objected to its being placed in the rotundo, having foreseen that it would not answer. Mr. Evans remarked that Mr. Greenough was here; and probably a better time never would arrive for making this necessary removal. The sum was small, and he hoped the amendment would be adopted. Mr. King asked where it was to be placed. Mr. Evans replied, just where the Senator himself had first recommended. Mr. Allen thought a sitting statue never could be placed in any light to show bet- ter than where it was. He should vote against the removal. The amendment was adopted. [From the “Act making appropriations for the civil and diplomatic expenses of Government for the fiscal year ending the thirtieth day of June, eighteen hundred and forty-four,” approved Mar. 3, 1843. (Stats, at Large, V. 5, 642, 644.)] For the removal of the statue of Washington, from its present location, and per- manently placing the same on a proper pedestal, and covering it temporarily in the enclosed and cultivated public grounds east of the Capitol, directly in front of the main entrance and steps of the east front of the Capitol, * * * the sum of five thousand dollars. For constructing two furnaces under each end of the first story of the centre of the Capitol, for warming the rooms and passages upon and above said first story, includ- 340 Documentary History of the Capitol. ing the Congress library room, according to the proposition of John Skirving to the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings, seven thousand nine hundred and seventy-three dollars. [Senate, 380, 29th Congress, 1st Session. Petition of A. B. Durand and others, praying that Professor Morse may be employed to execute the painting to fill the panel in the rotundo of the Capitol, set apart for Mr. Inman, since deceased. May 26, 1816.— Referred to the Committee on the Library. June 8, 1846. — Ordered to be printed.] To the honorable the Senate of the United States: The undersigned, the friends of Professor Samuel F. B. Morse, beg leave respect- fully to represent: That Professor Morse, whose early life for thirty years was devoted to the cultiva- tion of the art of painting, studied for four years in the Boyal Academy of London, then under the presidency of that distinguished painter, Benjamin West; but Mr. Morse was more especially, while in England, under the tuition, in historical paint- ing, of the late Washington Alston, and was a fellow-pupil under the same master with Leslie, so well known as now one of the first painters in England; when he returned to this country, and practised painting with distinguished success. In the year 1826, Professor Morse was the principal instrument, aided by other artists, in founding and establishing, at great personal sacrifices, the National Acad- emy of Design, one of the most flourishing of the institutions of the city or State of New York. From its foundation, for nineteen years he was annually unanimously chosen to preside over the academy, and then declined a re-election, from causes which will be presently explained. In 1829 he again visited Europe to perfect himself in historical painting, having in view to offer himself as a candidate for the commission to paint one of the great his- torical pictures to be placed in the rotundo of the Capitol, and pursued his studies for three years in Rome, Naples, Florence, Venice, and Paris; and, with the common consent of the artists and connoisseurs of this country, it was conceded that this honor would unquestionably be conferred upon him, and for this object he had made all the requisite preparation for a painting to represent the germ of the republic. That the committee of Congress, then appointed, (contrary to the universal expectation of those best qualified to judge of the merits of the several candidates,) set aside the claims of Professor Morse, and as an evidence of the sense of injustice which was felt among the profession, we can state that the late eminent and excellent artist, Mr. Inman, wrote President Van Buren a letter, in which he offered to resign the panel which had been assigned to him, expressing his hope that Professor Morse might be appointed to supply his place — a generous offer, which the committee to whom this let- ter was referred did not think proper to accept. That, as a further expression of the sense of the injustice done to Professor Morse, in rejecting his application to be employed as one of the painters, an association was voluntarily formed, of twenty-nine artists and amateurs of New York and Philadelphia, (among whom we note the names of three out of the four successful candidates for these pictures, ) who subscribed a sum of money, and appointed a committee of their body to request Professor Morse to paint for them, in small, the picture he had intended to paint for the rotundo, had Congress seen fit to grant him the commission. Although the money was sub- scribed, the neglect to pay promptly the quarterly instalments embarrassed Professor Morse in the progress of painting the picture, and, after every effort to proceed, he was reluctantly compelled to abandon his enterprise. He consequently laid aside his pencil, determining to devote himself for a while to pursuits which would furnish him with the means of resuming his picture at a future day; to which determination the country is indebted for the successful establishment of his magnetic telegraph — an invention destined to associate his name in our country’s annals with that of Frank- lin — an invention of which the country may justly be proud — the benefits of which are but beginning to be appreciated and understood. OLD SENATE CHAMBER, SHOWING WESTERN GALLERY. The Old Building. 341 The death of Mr. Inman now presents an opportunity of securing to the country a painting which, we have no doubt, will form one of the chief ornaments of the Cap- itol, and also of retrieving the error which refused the commission to an artist to whom the arts of design in our country are so much indebted for his self-sacrificing devotion to their interests for so many years. As the friends of Professor Morse, we beg leave to present to the due consideration of your honorable body his claims for exec.utiug the painting of the panel now vacated by the decease of Mr. Inman; claims which we are sure the great body of those whom he has benefited as an artist would sanction. While Professor Morse will, very probably, (under the circumstances,) not recjuest the commission by any personal solicitation for himself, we are assured that he will accept the commission, if offered to him by Congress. That the commission may be so conferred your petitioners will ever pray. A. B. Durand, Pres’t N. A. of Design, Thomas S. Cummings, Jno. G. Chapman, John L. Morton, F. W. Edmonds, G. C. Verplanck, J. F. E. Prudiiomme, Jon. Goodhue, P. Perit, Philip Hone, Frederick K. Spencer, Alfred Jones, James Harper, Chas. C. Ingham, V. P. N. A., S. De Witt Bloodgood, R. Watts, Jr., M. D., Prof, of Anatomy. Regis Giejewus, Jasper F. Cropsey, Chas. L. Elliott, Jas. J. Mapes, Jas. Renwick, Clinton Roosevelt, Geo. P. Morris, Henry C. Shumway. [“An Act making Appropriation to meet the expenses incurred in consequence of the late fire at the Capitol,” approved Jan. 13, 1852. (Stats, at Large, v. 10, 1.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the sum of five thousand dollars be, and the same is hereby, appropriated out of any money in the treasury not otherwise appropriated, to be expended, or so much thereof as may be necessary, under the direction of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, in discharge of the expenses incurred in the extin- guishment of the late tire in the Library Room, the removal of the rubbish, and the preservation of such books and other articles as may have been saved, and the con- struction of a tin roof for the preservation and protection of that portion of the building now exposed. * * * [Senate proceedings of Jan. 27, 1852: Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, p. 398.] LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. Mr. Pearce submitted the following resolution; which was considered by unanimous consent, and agreed to: Resolved, That the Committee on Public Buildings be instructed to inquire into the expediency of enlarging, repairing, and refitting the principal apartment heretofore occupied by the Library of Congress, so that it may be entirely fire-proof and capable of further extension in harmony with the general plan of the Capitol, upon the removal of the Senate and Llouse of Representatives and their offices to the wings of the Capitol. 342 Documentary History of the Capitol. [Senate. Rep. Com. No. 63. 32d Congress, 1st session. In the Senate ol the United States. Feb. 4, 1852.] Mr. Hunter made the following report (to accompany bill S. No. 184): The Committee on Public Buildings, to whom was referred a resolution directing them to inquire into the expediency of enlarging, repairing and refitting the princi- pal apartment lately occupied by the library of Congress, so that the same may be entirely tire-proof and capable of extension in harmony with the general plan of the capitol, have had same under consideration and report : In connexion with this subject they have examined the report of the architect, Mr. Walter, to the Commissioner of Public Buildings, upon the subject of repairing the library. After an examination of the plan proposed in this report and the draw- ings which accompany it, they have concurred in the recommendation of the archi- tect, and submit his report, which is hereto annexed, as expressing their views. But being well aware that experience often suggests the propriety of changes in the details of a plan during the process of construction, they have deemed it best to leave it to the discretion of the President to make such changes in the details of the plan as may be consistent with the general arrangement, and yet improve the appearance and usefulness of the room. In view of the necessity for some immediate provision to meet the want of a Congressional library, the committee have deemed it advisable to repair at once the former library room, and for that purpose submit the accom- panying bill. In the event of the passage of this bill, your committee recommend that the drawings shall be deposited with the Secretary of the Interior. Architect’s Office U. S. Capitol, Washington, D. C. , January 27, 1852. Sir: In compliance with the request contained in your letter of the 27th ultimo, I have made an examination of the capitol, in reference to the extent of the injury done to the building by the burning of the library of Congress, and the best means of repairing the damage. I have likewise prepared plans for reconstructing the library, which are herewith submitted. In view of the irreparable loss the country has sustained by the destruction of the old library, I have considered it an indispensable element in the design now pre- sented, to use no combustible materials whatever, in any part of the work; the alcoves, cases, galleries, doors,, window-shutters, ceilings, and the brackets that sup- port them, are all designed to be of cast-iron; the shelves for the books of thick glass, or enamelled iron; the framing of the roof of wrought iron; the sheathing of copper, and the floor of stone. In a library thus constructed, fire will be out of the question, and the materials of which it is formed will not be subject to decay nor deterioration. By the plans here proposed it is contemplated to enlarge the library so as to embrace the entire western projection; this will give a room of twenty-nine feet six inches by seventy feet two inches at each end of the original library, extending to the roof, lighted by skylights, with two additional apartments, each eighteen feet six inches by thirty-five feet, for private reading-rooms for senators and members of the House of Representatives respectively; thus making a suite oifive rooms, embrac- ing an extent of three hundred and two feet. It will not, however, be possible to carry out the entire plan until accommodations are provided in the new wings for the officers of Congress and committees now occu- pying the north and south rooms of the western projection; I therefore propose to fit up the old library, according to the plans, without changing its dimensions, and to complete the archways intended to lead into the end rooms, leaving a sufficient thickness of wall remaining to separate the library and the said rooms until the proper time arrives for carrying out the entire design. In this portion of the plan, which, as before remarked, constitutes the reconstruc- tion of the old library, there will be two stories of alcoves, the second story receding three feet from the front of those below, so as to admit of forming a gallery on top The Old Building. 343 with but little projection; the same arrangement will be repeated on the top of the second story alcoves, so as to form a gallery to the third story, which will consist of cases against the wall, with divisions and ornamental pilasters corresponding to the openings below. The galleries will all be protected by continuous railings of iron. The floors of the galleries will consist of cast-iron plates, and the approach to them will be by means of two semicircular stairways formed of iron and recessed in the end walls. Each of the lower alcoves will be inclosed by ornamental iron gates. The ceiling will be composed of thin iron plates, cast with deep sunken panels, filled in with enriched mouldings and centre ornaments. The room will be lighted, in addition to the windows in the west front, by eight skylights, each six feet square in the clear, making two hundred and eighty-eight square feet of glass. Each skylight will be filled in with ornamented glass, forming part of the design of the ceiling, and protected on top by thick plates of glass placed on the line of the roof. The floor will be composed of marble tiles, the walls plastered, and the interior painted in colors appropriate to the materials of which it is composed. I propose to warm this portion of the building by means of hot-water pipes enclosed in chambers erected in the present furnace-rooms in the cellars, and connected with boilers for heating the water; the external air to be admitted into these chambers, where it will be warmed aud conducted by flues to the library, and such of the adja- cent rooms as are heated by the present furnaces. The quality of the heat thus pro- duced is not only unobjectionable, as it regards health and comfort, but it is pecu- liarly adapted to the warming of libraries, as it retains its original moisture, and is not injurious to the binding of the books, besides being free from dust and other impurities. The room will be ventilated by means of apertures in the ceiling, opening into the space between the ceiling and the roof, from which the foul air will be extracted by means of an air-shaft, in which a vicuum will be produced by artificial heat. The execution of the entire plan here proposed will in no way impair the stability of the structure, but rather promote it; none of the main walls will be disturbed, the removal of the arches over the rooms will relieve the outer walls of horizontal pres- sure, and the aggregate weight of the superstructure will be reduced; all of which are important considerations when it is remembered that the western projection has always had a tendency to settle off from the rest of the building, which is shown by the cracks in the angles on the outside. The injury to the building produced by the fire is almost exclusively confined to the library. The floor being composed of bricks laid on the arches of the rooms below, and the surrounding walls being of great thickness, extending above the roof in the form of parapets, the firemen were enabled to keep the fire under control and prevent it from communicating to other parts of the building. The walls are, how- ever, so much injured as to make it necessary to take down and rebuild the upper por- tion of them, including the entire parapets, and to repair them generally throughout. The western front has sustained so much injury around the windows, as to make it necessary to take out the stone work between the pilasters as high as the bottom of the upper panels, and substitute it with new material ; the panel, and sculpture appear to be uninjured; and as far as I can now judge, they may remain. The inner portions of the columns have suffered very seriously; the injured parts may, however, be cut out and replaced by new stone, without removing them, as the repairing will be obscured by repainting them. I would further suggest, in connexion with these improvements, the removal of the stairway leading into the attic, in front of the main door of the library: this stair- way is of but little use, as both ends of the building have other convenient approaches; I therefore propose its removal, with all the columns and archways connected with it. The stairway by which the rotundo is approached will then be better lighted, 344 Documentary History of the Capitol. the approach to the library will be free and light, and the library door will be in full view from the rotundo. This door may be richly embellished with the columns and entablature which now support the stairs in question, and a rich marble balustrade may be placed around the stairway leading from below, Avhich will form a tasteful and convenient improvement. This colonnade, with the low arches leading to the library, are the most objectionable features of the building, besides interfering with the passage of light to the stairway most used by the members, and also to the approach to the library; I can, therefore, see no reason why they should not be removed. I have estimated the cost of carrying out that portion of the plan now proposed, embracing the space heretofore occupied by the library, together with all the afore- mentioned repairs and alterations, the whole of which are to be executed of incom- bustible materials as hereinbefore stated, and find that it will amount to $72,500. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Tho. U. Walter, Architect U. S. Capitol. William Easby, Esq., Commissioner of Public Buildings. [“An Act to provide for the Repair of the Congressional Library Room, lately destroyed by Fire,” approved Mar. 19, 1852. (Stats, at Large, v, 10, 3.)] Be it enacted bg the Senate and, House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the sum of seventy-two thousand five hundred dollars be, and the same is hereby appropriated to the repair of the Congressional Library room, which was lately destroyed by fire, according to the plan described in the report and drawings which were submitted by the architect to the Secretary of the Interior, and approved by the Committee on Public Buildings of the Senate: Provided, however, That the work shall be executed under the direction of the Secretary of the Interior, and be subject to such a modification of the details as may be consistent with the general arrangements of the plan, and necessary and proper in the opinion of the President of the United States. [From the annual report of Thomas U. Walter, Architect of Public Buildings, Dec. 1, 1852. (32 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 1, p. 582, 585.)] LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. On the 27th of January last I submitted designs for reconstructing the main library room, with arrangements for future extension, which were adopted, and on the 19th of March an appropriation of $72,500 was made to carry out the plans. The work was immediately commenced, and every possible exertion has been made to complete it before the assembling of Congress; it will, however, be out of our power to finish it entirely for several weeks to come, notwithstanding the workmen have been con- stantly and energetically employed, night and day. The entire room is fitted up with iron, and the ceiling is composed of the same material, so that nothing com- bustible enters in any way into its construction. The damage done by the fire to the western front has all been repaired. The hot water furnaces, for warming the library and the adjacent rooms are com- pleted and in operation. The appropriation made for “the repairs of the Congressional Library,” by the act of Congress approved March 19, 1852, amounted to $72,500 00 Of which there have been expended to the present date (December 1, 1852) 51,703 24 Leaving an unexpended balance of 20, 796 76 * * * The Old Building. 345 Immediately after the destruction of this portion of the Capitol by fire, which occurred on the 24th of December last, I was requested by the Commissioner of Public Buildings to make an examination in reference to the extent of the injury, to report thereon, and to prepare plans and estimates for repairing the damage. On the 27th of January I submitted a design for reconstructing the principal apartment of the library within its original limits, with such an arrangement as would admit of its future enlargement, together with a report and an estimate, all of which were subsequently transmitted to the Senate Committee on Public Build- ings and Grounds, and on the 19th of March last, an act was passed by Congress appropriating the sum of $72,500 for carrying out the design. As the plans contemplated the execution of the entire work of iron, proposals were invited from several establishments which were supposed to possess undoubted facilities for working in that material with expedition and accuracy, and the con- tract was finally awarded to Messrs. James Beebe & Co., of New York, they being the lowest bidders. Articles of agreement were entered into by the parties on the 21st of June last, and the work was commenced as soon as the patterns could be prepared. The great inconvenience occasioned by the loss of the former library rendered it highly important to have the room finished, if possible, before the assembling of Congress, and to effect this object every possible exertion has been used. The con- tractors have kept as many men constantly employed, day and night, as the nature of the work would admit, and have left no means unemployed to bring it to a speedy conclusion. Several weeks were lost by unforseen difficulties, which occurred in preparing the room for the contractors; and considerable time was consumed in waiting for the patterns for the ornamental work, which the pattern-makers found it impossible to prepare as rapidly as they were required. But notwithstanding these hindrances, which could neither have been foreseen nor avoided, the work has progressed with unexampled rapidity. The ceiling, which is wholly of iron, is entirely finished, and the alcoves and shelves will be completed in a few days, so that but little yet remains to be done to finish all the iron work. The whole of this immense iron room will therefore have been cast, fitted, and put up in less than six months; and as far as my own knowledge goes, it is the first room ever made exclu- sively of iron. The damage done by the fire to the western front of the building has all been repaired. The moulded dressings around the windows, and all the injured portions of the wall, the columns, and the pedestals have been removed and replaced by other stone from the same quarry; so that every part of the work is rendered as permanent and free from blemish as it was before the fire. The sculptured panels above the windows sustained no injury, except being defaced by smoke. Such portions of the inside walls as were injured, were cutout and replaced by new materials. Description of the design . — The library, when completed, will embrace the entire western projection of the present Capitol. The main room, which is the part of the design now being finished, is 91 feet long, 34 feet wide, and 38 feet high. It occupies the centre of the western projection, and will connect at each end with a room of corresponding height, 29 feet 6 inches wide, and 70 feet 2 inches long. These rooms will be fitted up with iron cases, and iron ceilings, similar to those of the main library. They will also be roofed with copper laid on iron rafters, and lighted by ornamental skylights. The connexion between the centre and the end rooms will be made by openings of 10 feet in width by 28 feet 6 inches in height, crowned by elliptical arches. These openings are already formed in the walls, so as to admit of being cut through with but little labor. There will also be two additional apart- ments, each 18 feet 6 inches by 35 feet, one of which is now temporarily occupied by the library; thus forming a suite of five rooms, embracing an extent of 302 feet. These smaller apartments will be appropriated to the use of Senators and members of the House of Representatives as private reading rooms. Documentary History of the Capitol. 346 The entire plan cannot, however, be carried out until accommodations are pro- vided in the new wings for the officers of Congress, and the committees now occupy- ing the north and south rooms of the western projection. The main library room, which, as before stated, is now nearly completed, embraces the space occupied by the old library before the fire. On both sides of the room are three stories of iron cases, each 9 feet 6 inches in height. The lower story consists of alcoves projecting 8 feet 6 inches into the room, with cases on each side of the pro- jections. The second story has similar alcoves, excepting that their projection is but 5 feet, which leaves a platform of 3 feet 6 inches in width, resting on the cases below, and which constitute a commodious gallery. A similar platform is constructed on the alcoves of the second story, forming a gallery to approach the upper cases; thus making three stories, receding as they ascend. These galleries are continued across the ends of the room, where they are supported by massive brackets. The alcoves are nine feet eight inches in width, from centre to centre, with an ornamented pier forming the head of each projection. The architraves which cross the alcoves are finished with shields, crowning bands and corner ornaments. The shields are designed as tablets to receive the names of the general subjects on which the books in the respective alcoves treat. The galleries are all floored with cast iron plates, and protected by pedestals and railings; they are approached by two semicircular stairways of cast iron, recessed in the end walls of the room. The ceiling is wholly composed of iron; it is suspended from strong iron trusses, which likewise constitute the support of the roof; it rests on twenty-four massy con- soles, ornamented with foliage, fruits, and scrolls. Each of these consoles weighs nearly a ton. Their projection from the face of the walls is five feet six inches, their height five feet four inches, and their wddth twenty-one inches. The entire ceiling is divided into deeply sunken panels, and embellished with ornate mouldings and foliated pendants. The room is lighted, in addition to the five windows in the western front, by eight sky-lights in the ceiling, each six feet square in the clear, filled in with ornamented glass, and protected by an upper sky-light of seventy-seven feet in length by ten feet six inches in width, placed on a corresponding angle with the roof, and covered with thick plates of glass. The roof is covered with copper, secured by copper wire to the iron rafters. The furnaces for warming this portion of the building are completed, and in oper- ation. They consist of hot water pipes enclosed in chambers erected in the old fur- nace room in the cellar, and connected with boilers for heating the water. The external air is admitted into these chambers, where it is warmed and conveyed by flues into the library, and such of the adjacent rooms as were heated by the old furnaces. By an act of Congress, approved March 19, 1852, there was appropriated for “the repairs of the Congressional Library” the sum of $72, 500 00 Of which there have been expended, to the present date, (Dec. 1, 1852,). 51, 703 24 Leaving an unexpended balance of 20, 796 76 A detailed account of the expenditures up to the 31st of the present month, inclu- sive, will be transmitted to you on the 1st of January ensuing. * * * Hon. Alex. H. H. Stuart, Secretary of the Interior. Thomas U. Walter, Architect of the Public Buildings. The Old Building. 347 [From the annual report of Alexander H. H. Stuart, Secretary of the Interior, Dec. 4, 1852 (32-2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 1, 45.)] The arrangements for the new library room are also nearly completed, with the exception of the painting and gilding. The galleries, piers, alcoves, columns, doors, stairways, shelving, ceiling, consoles, and, indeed, all of the new fixtures, are of iron. The trusses of the roof are also of iron, covered with copper; so that no combustible material is used in any part of it. The plan of this work was designed, and the drawings and specifications, in detail, were prepared, by Mr. Thomas IT. Walter, the architect of the extension of the Capitol, and the execution of them was intrusted to Messrs. Beebee & Co., of New' York. When completed, it will present the first specimen of a room constructed entirely of iron; and I think I may add, that for convenience and beauty of arrangement it will be without a rival. The workman- ship is of the most admirable quality; and when we look at it as it now stands, and reflect that it consists of more than ten thousand separate pieces, of an aggregate weight of four hundred tons, and that it was planned in Washington, and executed in New York, more than two hundred miles from the hall in which it was to be placed; and when we see that every part of it fits together with the precision of cabi- net work, we are at a loss whether to ascribe most honor and praise to the genius and taste of the architect who conceived and marked out the design, or to the skill and fidelity of the contractors who performed the work. The damage done to the outside of the western front of the Capitol by the fire of December, 1851, which was more extensive than was at first supposed, has been repaired, and the building rendered as permanent and free from blemish as before the accident occurred. [House of Representatives. Ex. Doc. No. 18. 32d Congress, 2d Session. Estimate — Congressional Library. Letter from the Secretary of the Treasury, transmitting an estimate to cover deficiency in the appropriation for repairing the Congressional Library. Jan. 14, 1853— Referred to the Com- mittee of Ways and Means.] Treasury Department, December 39, 1853. Sir: In conformity with a request contained in a letter from the Secretary of the Interior of the 28th instant, a copy of which is enclosed, I have the honor to trans- mit herewith a letter to that officer, of same date, from Thomas U. Walter, architect, &c. , accompanied by an estimate to cover a deficiency in the appropriation for ‘ ‘ the repairs of the Congressional Library.” Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Tho. Corwin, Secretary of the Treasury. Hon. Linn Boyd, Speaker of the House of Representatives. Department of the Interior, Washington, December 38, 1853. Sir: In accordance with the desire intimated in a letter from the Committee of Ways and Means of the House of Representatives, of the 2d of January last, as to the manner in which special estimates shall be communicated to them, I have the honor to transmit herewith a letter, of the present date, from Thomas IT. Walter, esq., architect, &c., accompanied by an estimate to cover a deficiency in the appropriation for “repairs of the Congressional Library” of $20,500, and request that it may be communicated to the House of Representatives. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Alex. H. II. Stuart, Secretary. Hon. Tho. Corwin, Secretary of the Treasury. 348 Documentary History of the Capitol. Architect’s Office, U. S. Capitol, Washington, D. C., December 28, 1852. Sir: I find that there will be a deficiency of appropriation for “the repairs of the Congressional Library” of $20,500, which has occurred in consequence of the injuries from the fire being greater than were at first supposed, and from the impossibility of estimating accurately the cost of so novel and difficult a work, as well as from a more expensive finish having been decided upon than was at first contemplated. I find my estimate of quantities in the iron work (which is the largest item of expense) to correspond very nearly with the actual amount of material used; but it was impossible to say with certainty what the prices would be until the bidders for the work had submitted their proposals. In order to show the uncertainty of the cost of so unusual a work, I subjoin a list of the aggregate of each of the bids, founded on the quantities ascertained by my own estimate, which, as before remarked, has proved to be substantially correct. E. Corning & Co., of Albany $87, 636 Theo. J. Gillies, of New York 85,869 J. T. Ames, of Massachusetts 77, 492 R. H. Lathrop, of Albany 72,968 John B. King & Co., of Albany 7 72, 851 Carnley, King, & Co., of New York 72,646 Bogardus & Hoppen, of New York 72, 518 Janes, Beebe, & Co., of New York 59, 872 It will be observed that all the bids except the last exceed the whole amount of the appropriation, viz: $72,500; and the difference between the highest and the low- est is $27,764. The lowest bid was accepted; and I have the satisfaction to say that the work has been executed as well and as faithfully as it could have been done by any one. The style of finish I propose to give to the work is as follows: All the plain surfaces of the ceiling, both horizontal and vertical, to be gilded in three shades of gold leaf, so disposed as to give depth and effect to the panels. All the ornamental mouldings, pendants, and drops of the ceiling to be finished in gold bronze, and the prominent parts to be tipped with gold, burnished, so as to produce a decided and sparkling effect against the dead gold surfaces. The large consoles to be painted in light bronze, green, tipped with gold bronze and burnished gold, for the purpose of giving relief to the fruits and foliage. All the cases, the railings, and the remaining iron work to be finished with light gold bronze, tipped on all the parts which receive the strongest light with burnished gold. The walls to be frescoed in ornamental panels, corresponding with the rest of the work. In the finish of this room I desire to keep up the idea of the whole being com- posed of metal, which could not be done if other than metallic colors were used; and I think that the effect of the finish here proposed will be perfectly harmonious, and will impart to the room a brilliancy and richness consistent with its architecture. The estimate here given is founded on this description of finish. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Tho. U. Walter, Architect of “ Repairs of Congressional Library .” Hon. Alex. H. H. Stuart, Secretary of the Interior. The Old Building. 349 Architect’s Office, U. S. Capitol, Washington, I). C. , December 28, 1852. Estimate for furnishing “repairs of Congressional Library,” wrought-iron door, with lock and hanging, in north end of room, now in hands §100 Main entrance door of Library with architraves inside and outside, all of iron . 350 Balance due on roof 850 Bill for priming and painting all the iron work at the foundry, and after it was put up 950 Balance due on cast-iron work 6, 700 Ornamental iron railing around all the galleries, including putting up 2, 700 Due for December pay-roll of bricklayers and laborers 320 Due John Skirving, foreman, wages 350 Estimate for finishing plastering 250 Do. cement and workmanship of floor 350 Do. gilding, bronzing, and painting, including scaffolding 12,000 Incidental expenses — say 935 25, 855 Balance of appropriation on hand this day, December 28, 1852 5, 355 20, 500 [Senate proceedings of Feb. 15, 1853: Congressional Globe, 32-2, p. 623.] The Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, having under consideration the bill to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the service of the fiscal year 1853 — Mr. Brodhead. I desire to move an amendment, for the purpose of making an inquiry of the honorable chairman of the Committee on Finance, who is also a mem- ber of the Committee on Public Buildings. I move to strike out the clause — For the completion of the repairs of the Library room authorized by the act approved March 19, 1852, $20,500. At the last session we appropriated §75,000 for this purpose. This appropriation will make §95,500 for fitting up and repairing one room. ' I know nothing against the integrity of the architect who has this work in charge; but I thought, when the §75,000 were asked for, that it was a very large sum to require to fix up one room and to repair it for the reception of books; and now, when §20,500 in addition is asked for, I think there ought to be some explanation of it given to the Senate. It may be proper that §95,500 should be appropriated for this purpose, but it does seem to me to be a very large amount. Mr. Hunter. It is true that the expenditure for the repair of the Library room is likely to exceed the estimate originally made by the architect. We all know that that room was destroyed by fire. It was impossible to ascertain from a superficial inspection how far the building had been injured. In taking down the portions which were burned, it was found that the injury was much greater than had been supposed. In addition to that, it is to be observed — this I am told by the Architect, and I presume it is so — that this is the largest room made of iron in the world, and of course there would be a greater liability to error in estimating for a room of that sort, when the first experiment Avas to be made, than there Avould be in regard to any other. The Architect showed me the bids for the iron alone, and they ranged from seventy-odd thousand dollars — nearly the amount originally appro- priated — down to fifty thousand dollars. He took the lowest bid; and it seems to have been very well executed. But it Avas found that, in order to finish this room, it would require an additional sum. I believe it passed through the supervision of the Committee on Public Buildings in the House of Representatives. This is the esti- 350 Documentary Jlist ary of the Capitol. mate. When completed, the room will probably be one of the most beautiful in the world. The Architect designs to finish it in such a style as may present this new species of architecture in a more elegant and inviting form; and surely no man has more interest than the Senator from Pennsylvania in the material which is adopted in the construction of that room. [Laughter.] Mr. Borland. I desire to take this occasion to say a word upon the subject of this Architect’s estimates. I know the argument that the Senator from Virginia has made to my friend from Pennsylvania is a yery strong one. We have heard of a great many different kinds of arguments. There is the argumentum ad hominem, and there are various other arguments. The argument applied to the Senator from Penn- sylvania, seems to be the argumentum adferrum. The Senator from Texas made the same appeal to the Senator from Pennsylvania the other day, and the Senator from Virginia renews it to-day. I am afraid that this constant striking of my friend from Pennsylvania with an iron argument, if he is not a man of iron nerve, will break down his resolution. But, Mr. President, I desire to avail myself of the occasion offered by the proposed amendment, to say a word with regard to the contracts which this Architect has been making for the public works; and I do so for the purpose of supplying a small omission which I made a few moments ago. Speaking in regard to this matter of contracts, I will state a single fact which has been proved before the Committee on Frauds. It will strike the Senate, I think, as a very extraordinary one. The con- tracts made for the marble to be used in the construction of the extension of the Capitol, were very curiously worded. A difference is made in the pieces of marble containing thirty cubic feet and over, and those containing less than thirty cubic feet; and there is a very extraordinary difference. The Architect pays for the mar- ble, in pieces of thirty cubic feet and over, $1 98 per cubic foot, and for pieces under thirty cubic feet in size, sixty-five cents a cubic foot. In receiving the estimates from the different individuals who propose to furnish this marble, he received, of course, as to the aggregate number of cubic feet that would be required in the build- ing. There were various amounts stated: Mr. Smith, of New York, to whose high character as a man of integrity the Senator from New York will bear testimony, came, at the request of the Architect, and submitted an estimate for thirty-five thou- sand cubic feet. The Architect told him that he thought it was too little; that more would be required, and suggested fifty thousand cubic feet as the estimated amount for the whole. Upon that, Mr. Smith based a proposition to furnish it at a certain price. That was the largest amount then which the Architect deemed necessary. He made the contract with others, estimating for one hundred thousand cubic feet — more than double what he at first supposed would be necessary — but it is found that about one half of this one hundred thousand cubic feet has been received in pieces over thirty cubic feet in size. Now, sir, a very simple estimate shows what is the result, and what we find before our eyes every day, namely: that at least half, or more than half, has been furnished in pieces over thirty cubic feet in size. With what result? Why, sir, they bring these pieces here, and at the expense of the Government cut them up into small pieces; so instead of getting the small pieces which were needed, at sixty-five cents per cubic foot, they pay $1 98 per cubic foot for large pieces, and bring them here, and, at an additional expense to the Govern- ment, cut them up in small pieces. What is the difference? The Commissioner of Public Buildings states the difference. He makes an estimate of what came under his own observation, which he communicated to Mr. Walter, the Architect, of more than $65,000 paid out, which ought not to have been paid. So much for the con- tracts and estimates and statements which the Architect may make. I have no com- ment to make upon it. I state this as a fact, proved beyond all controversy, which any man can see to be true by looking at the thing as it is passing every day before our eyes. I leave the Senate to judge what confidence should be placed in the state- ments and estimates of the Architect. The Old Building. 351 Mr. Brooke. I do not rise to say anything about this amendment; but I rise for the purpose of protesting against any member of any investigating committee which is now in session, divulging what has been testified before that committee, until the report is complete, and published by the authority of the Senate. The statements, so far as they have been made, are entirely ex parte. The investigating committee has the power of arraigning the individuals brought before it, and they hear testimony con- cerning charges that have been made. The characters of men are involved; and the simple rule of justice requires that these charges, and the proof — the ex parte proof — so far had upon them, should not be divulged to the world, until the parties impli- cated and accused have had an opportunity to defend themselves. I rise, as I re- marked, simply for the purpose of protesting against any such course of proceeding. Mr. Borland. The Senator from Mississippi protests against my use of these papers. Has that Senator forgotten that before I took them from the committee- room, 1 pro- posed it to the committee, and received its permission to use them for this very pur- pose? I did not take them to bring them to the Senate without stating the use which I was going to make of them, which was rendered necessary because this appropria- tion was pending before us. Mr. Brooke. I was not aware that the Senator had the consent of the committee; but if he had, it makes no difference. I protest against the principle of the thing, whether he comes with the permission of the committee or not. Mr. Walker. Money is about being appropriated for certain public objects. I differ from the honorable Senator from Mississippi in this. I believe it to be the duty of that committee, either by its individuals or in its aggregate, to make known such general facts to the Senate as may put us on our guard in reference to these appro- priations. Sir, if with the knowledge which we possess, we should sit quietly by and see $400,000 appropriated for the extension of the Capitol, and $20,500 for the Library room, and not make known that there was danger ahead, and that injury had been sustained by the Government, 1 should think that we were derelict in our duty. I think the Senator from Arkansas has mentioned nothing more and nothing less than it was his duty to mention. Why, sir, he did not even skim the surface of what he might say, but he said enough, if confidence can be placed in what he says— and I know no Senator in whom more confidence should be placed — to alarm the Senate, and make it take care of what it is doing. I do not think there has been any outrage committed upon the individuals of the Senate, or other members of the committee, by what the Senator from Arkansas has mentioned. Mr. Hunter. I hope that this line of debate will not proceed further. It seems to me that it cannot be well to go further into it, as we are anxious to dispose of the bill this morning. The contracts to which the Senator from Arkansas alludes are contracts in relation to a subject which has been passed by — not to the Library room. We are all anxious to have that room completed, and without this additional appro- priation it cannot be done. We must either vote the money or suspend the work, and thus postpone, perhaps for another year, the advantages which we derive from the Congressional Library. But I suppose that the Senator from Arkansas is not opposing this additional appropriation for the Library. He is only deriving from this an opportunity to expose the frauds which he discovers in relation to the other matters. I hope we shall be allowed to take a vote upon the amendment. Mr. Borland. I did not rise to oppose this amendment particularly, but simply for the purpose of saying this: The Senator from Pennsylvania asked a question with reference to this very appropriation, and the grounds upon which it is based. The Senator from Virginia, in explaining that appropriation and the grounds upon which it is given, stated as an authority for the amount required the estimate of the Archi- tect employed on the extension of the Capitol. In order to make an answer to that, and to show how much authority of that kind can be relied on in determining this question with regard to the amount of the appropriation required, I deemed it my 352 Documentary History of the Capitol. duty to call the attention of the Senate to the facts which exist, in order to put the Senate in possession of the means of judging for themselves. That was my reason. One word as to that which the Senator from Mississippi chooses to regard as so very wrong in the exposures which I have made. Why, sir, the facts are not only before the committee, but they are published in the newspapers; at least rumors about the matter are published. In that state of things, propositions are made to expend large sums of money. In connection with that proposition, I, as a member of a committee charged by the Senate with the performance of certain duties, have ascertained certain facts, and when could I more appropriately make those facts known than when the subject was before us? When' ought the statement to be made known, except at the time when it can do some good by enabling the Senate to legislate intelligently? The Senator from Mississippi says I have no right to speak of these things. I speak of them as making a report. I have the consent of the committee to bring these things forward, and to that extent it is a report. I do it, not only by my own authority, but by that of the committee. The Senator seems not to have been aware of the permission of the committee that this statement should be made, but certainly he was in the committee room at, the time the permission was given, and I thought that he also gave his assent. At any rate these are the facts; and I hold it to be never wrong to expose frauds committed upon the Government. Whatever other Senators may think, I not only think it right at all times when the facts are ascertained to make them known, but I shall certainly do it when any sub- ject comes before us which makes it necessary, in my opinion, to mention them. Mr. Brodhead. Having obtained the information that I desired, I withdraw the amendment. [From the “ Act. to supply Deficiencies in the Appropriations for the Service of the Fiscal Year ending the thirtieth of June, one thousand eight hundred and fifty-three,” approved Mar. 3, 1853. (Stats, at Large, v. 10, 181.)] For the completion of the repairs of the Congressional Library room, authorized by the act approved March nineteenth, eighteen hundred and fifty-two, twenty thousand five hundred dollars. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 2, 1S59: Congressional Globe, 35-2, p. 1579.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1860 — Mr. Bayard. I propose an amendment, by the instruction of the Committee on the Judiciary, to come in on page 9, after line one hundred and ninety-six, which I send to the Chair: For the altering, fitting up, and furnishing, the former Senate Chamber for the Supreme Court, with the twelve rooms for the use of the court, its officers and records, and for the drainage water and gas pipes: and for fitting up the former Supreme Court room for the law library of Congress, which rooms are hereby assigned for these purposes according to the plan prepared under the direc- tion of the Supreme Court, §38,000. Mr. President, a very brief statement will show the object of that amendment, and the necessity of it. When the Capitol was enlarged, it was always considered and understood, I believe universally, that, after it w r as completed, and we occupied the wing, the former Senate Chamber was to be appropriated to the use of the Supreme Court. Under these circumstances, since our removal here, the matter has been brought to the attention of the court as to what accommodations they would require in connection with the Senate Chamber to be occupied by them. The plan was accordingly made out, which is admirably suited for the convenience of the Court; but, in connection with it, there was also suggested an idea, arising from the want of The Old Building. 353 room in the present law library of Congress, that it was indispensably necessary that another library should be provided. Therefore, in connection with this plan, as the estimates were given, is the removal of the present law library, which now contains fifteen thousand volumes, and the library is over-crowded, to the present Supreme Court room; which can be so fitted up with shelves as to accommodate a library of nearly twenty-two thousand volumes, giving ample room to the library for many years to come; and afterwards, the accommodation can be extended by interior arrangements. This is the general idea, the rooms to be occupied are not more than sufficient. The plan is a specific one. It was drawn up by the superintendent of the Capitol extension, in accordance with the wishes and design of the court. I can state to the Senate precisely what the accommodation is, because it is right that they should know it. The old cloak-room of the Senate, which is nothing more than a passage way, together with the corridor and passage from the wing through the main build- ing, are entirely devoted to the court. Crossing that, there is a small strip or a small room lying by the corridor which was formerly part of the reception room. That is to be the robing-room of the judges. Next to that comes the Vice President’s room, which is to be the conference room of the court. Adjoining that is the for- mer Secretary’s office, which is to be converted into an audience room, where the judges will receive any person whom it is necessary to see during the sitting of the court. Adjoining are the offices of the clerks of the Secretary of the Senate, which are appropriated, first, to the clerk of the Supreme Court, and the other to the deputy clerk of the Supreme Court. The former Finance Committee room is appropriated, under this amendment, tothemarshal’sroom. The small cloak-room, onthesouth side of the Senate Chamber, is appropriated for the reporter’s office. Descending to the lower story, the present Supreme Court room is to Ire converted into a library with iron shelves, and the same system as the present general library of Congress, to be fitted up for the law library of Congress in the same manner. When so fitted up, it will be fire proof, and capable of containing nearly twenty-two thousand volumes. The former conference room of the Supreme Court is to be used as the judges’ study in connection with the library. Mr. Hunter. Will the Senator inform me who made the estimate? Mr. Bayard. It was made at the request of the court by the superintendent of the Capitol extension. Mr. Hunter. Mr. Meigs? Mr. Bayard. Yes, sir; and, further, I will state to the honorable Senator the remainder of the detail. The first estimate was $50,000. Finding that objections existed to that sum, I had a long conversation with the superintendent, and made several suggestions to him in reference to part of what I considered ornamental work, and the changes that might possibly be advisable, and under those suggestions he has reduced the estimate to $38,000 for the whole work. It was originally $50,000. All the changes can be accomplished for $38,000. I will add further, that, in point of fact, the Government will not incur one dollar of expense in the future arising from this appropriation; because, if these accommo- dations are given, which are useless to us for any other purpose, the Capitol being sufficient for that, purpose, the Supreme Court will have its conference room in the Capitol, and the arrangement is made under that view. Under the present law, their conference room is up town, as we call it, and we pay for it $200 a month, or $2,400 a year, which is more than the interest at even six per cent, of the money to be expended for the purpose of these permanent improvements. I think, therefore, it would he wisdom to make the appropriation, and get rid of the necessity of having this conference room, which is entirely disconnected. Taking the whole details — and I examined them with great accuracy — 1 think they are cut down to the lowest point H. Rep. 6d0 23 354 Documentary History of the Capitol. at which a proper improvement of the building for the accommodation of the court can lie made. If we are willing to give to a coordinate branch of the Government proper accommodations for the performance of their duties, as was intended when the Capitol was extended, I think the Senate cannot hesitate to embody this as an amendment to the bill. Mr. Trumbull. I simply wish to call attention to one fact. Here is a proposition to fit up the old Senate Chamber and the Supreme court-room, and twelve additional rooms. Now, I would like to know what use there can be for twelve rooms in addi- tion to those two, making fourteen in all, for the Supreme Court? Mr. Bayard. I will give the answer to the honorable Senator. The plans are in the committee-room. He could have seen them at any time, if he had seen fit to do so; and I think he would have been satisfied. They are called rooms, and they are rooms strictly speaking, but I have endeavored to explain them; for instance: the retiring room, so called, which was nothing more than a passage-way, in which Sen- ators used to hang up their cloaks on the north side of the Senate Chamber, is for the judges. Then there is, as I stated,, a robing room, which is a small portion of the old reception room which is left from the space taken off by the corridor in passing through. It is very small. Then comes the former Vice President’s room, which is to be the conference room of the court, and they abandon the old confer- ence room for which we now pay $2,400 a year. Then there is an audience room, which is a room adjoining, which formerly was occupied by the Secretary of the Senate; it is a very narrow room, though long enough. Then I mentioned the clerk’s rooms. There is also a small room, formerly the cloak room, on the south side, appropriated to the reporter; and the old Finance Committee room given to the marshal. All those officers require rooms. When you descend to the lower story you have the judge’s study in connection with the library, which is their former conference room. You have the Attorney General’s office, formerly cut off in part from the present Supreme Court. You have the room now occupied by the clerk of the Supreme Court for the Attorney General. You have the adjoining room to be occupied for what is called the libra- rian’s room, and I will explain that as the Senator is so critical upon the plan. The explanation is this: the Supreme Court have a duplicate of certain works that are used in the law library, and which are not permitted to be taken out by any person but the court. They are reserved in order that the court may always have access to books that are indispensable in the course of their labors here. That library amounts to some one thousand five hundred volumes. It is now in the conference room up town. The law librarian’s room is to be fitted up with iron shelves for this library of the judges, capable of holding three thousand four hundred volumes. After exam- ining its capacity throughout, that is what it would amount to. That constitutes another room. Then next to that comes the present law library, which it is proposed by the plan to convert into a record room. This is essentially necessary, as at present the Supreme Court have no room for the deposit of the records of the court. I had occa- sion, a few days ago, to go into that court and inquire for records not four years old, and it took four or five hours before they could be found, because, for the want of room for the proper position of placing records, it was impossible to find them with- out great labor. You must give them proper accommodations for their records. The idea is to fit up the record room in such a manner that it shall be fire proof, and afford ample accommodations for the regular keeping, and for the safe-keeping of the records of the highest court known to the laws of the land. These constitute all the rooms. I have mentioned what they are for. I think none of them unreasonable. None of them are wanted for any other purpose what- ever. I am entirely satisfied, from a minute examination of the estimates and the reductions made, that the mode in which the changes are to be made is economical The Old Building. 355 to the Government, arid not one dollar will be expended more than ia requisite for the purposes for which we ought to make appropriations. Mr. Wilson. I think, Mr. President, that we had better not adopt this amend- ment this year, and especially to the extent that is now proposed. We may as well wait another year. It may be that- we may want to go back there ourselves. For my own part, I will vote to go back there to-night, and give the Supreme Court this- room; for, in my judgment, in no sense does this Chamber equal the other, either for order, for hearing, or speaking, or anything connected with the legislation of the country. I do not see the necessity of going into any additional expense in order to fit up that room, at present, for the Supreme Court. I think we had better wait another year. Mr. Bayard. I desire to have the yeas and nays on the amendment. The yeas and nays were ordered; and being taken, resulted— yeas 28, nays 19; * . * * So the amendment was agreed to. [An incidental debate concerning an appropriation for converting of the old Senate Chamber into a room for the Supreme Court occurred in the Senate on June 11, 1860, in connection with a proposition to reconstruct the new Senate Chamber: Congres- sional Globe, 36 — 1, p. 2829, reproduced under the section relating to the Capitol Extension. ] [House proceedings of June 15, 1860: Congressional Globe, 36-1, p. 3050.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration the Senate amendments to the Sundry Civil bill for 1861 — ■ Twenty -ninth amendment: For converting the old Senate Chamber into a court-room, the old court-room into a law library, and for fitting up the rooms in connection with them, for the use of the Supreme Court and its offi- cers, $25,000: Provided, The work can be finished for that sum; to be expended under the direction of the Commissioner of Public Buildings and Grounds. The Chairman. The Committee of Ways and Means recommend a concurrence. Mr. Ashley. I move to amend by striking out “$20,000,” from the appropriation. I would like to ask the gentlemen who have this bill in charge how $25,000 can be expended in fitting up two rooms of this Capitol? Mr. Crawford. I may be mistaken; but my recollection is, that the Committee of Ways and Means recommended a non-concurrence in this amendment. At any rate I hope this committee will non-concur. Mr. Ashley. Twenty-five thousand dollars for fixing up two rooms for the Supreme Court! Why, sir, I undertake to say that we can fix up a room for $5,000, fit for any court upon earth, let alone this court. I cannot conceive how that amount of money can be expended. Mr. Sherman. I hope the committee will non-concur. Mr. Stevenson. I hope the committee will concur in this amendment. I think the Supreme Court of the United States ought to have a court-room suitable to its char- acter, and suited to the character of this Government; and I tell gentlemen over the way that $25,000 is not too much for this purpose. I understand that the Senate pro- pose to convert the old Supreme Courtroom intoa library room, and construct a stair to it from the old Senate Chamber; and to convert the old Senate Chamber into a court-room, and they are to have a clerk’s room also. This will cost $25,000. I hope this Congress will not allow the Supreme Court of a Government like ours to sit in the cellar of the Capitol, and have strangers, when they come here arid ask to be shown the greatest judicial tribunal of the country, to be taken down cellar. I understand that the original estimate was much larger than this, and Ido not think that $25,000 is too much. The old Senate Chamber is of no use now, and it is a good location for Documentary History of the Capitol. 35(3 the Supreme Court. It is hallowed by many sacred memories, and we should take measures to preserve it in a proper manner, and I know of no better means than this. Mr. Sherman. I am perfectly willing that the old Senate hall shall be fitted up for a Supreme Court room. I thought the amount proposed to be appropriated to be too large. I do not see how $25,000 can be expended profitably for that purpose. I hope the committee will non-concur, and let the amendment go to a committee of confer- ence, and let the proper amount be fixed by them. Mr. Vallandigham. The estimate last year was $38,000. The amendment was not agreed to. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty-one,” approved June 25, 1860. (Stats, at Large, v. 12, 110.)] For converting the old Senate chamber into a court room, the old court room into a law library, and for fitting up the rooms in connection with them, for the use of the Supreme Court and its officers, twenty-five thousand dollars: Provided, The work can be finished for that sum, to be expended under the direction of the Commissioner of Public Buildings and Grounds. [From the annual reportof B. B. French, Commissioner of Public Buildings, Oct. 13, 1863. (38-1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, 660.)] I would respectfully call attention to the old hall of the House of Representatives. If Congress does not intend to devote it to any practical use it should be placed in such order as not to bean “eyesore” in this noble building. It is a magnificent room in its proportions and colonnades, and there are associations connected with it that should render it almost as sacred as the old Flail of Independence in Philadel- phia. It is to be hoped that Congress will consider what is proper to be done with this now forlorn looking and dismantled room. [House proceedings of Jan. 5, 1864: Congressional Globe, 38-1, p. 99.] THE OLD HALL OF THE HOUSE. Mr. Morrill asked unanimous consent to introduce a joint resolution requesting the Committee on Public Buildings to examine and report as 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 passage-way through the hall, for the reception of such works of art. Mr. IVashburne, of Illinois. I object; and the reason is that I propose to intro- duce a resolution to remove the seat of Government from this barren and isolated country at the earliest moment. [House proceedings of Jan. 6, 18fi4: Congressional Globe, 38-1, p. 110.] HALL FOR STATUARY. Mr. Morrill introduced the following resolution, and moved the previous question on its adoption: 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 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 art. The previous question was seconded, and the main question ordered; and under its operation the resolution was agreed to. The Old Building. 357 [House proceedings of June 20, 1S64: Congressional Globe, 38-1, p. 3106.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1865 — Mr. Rice, of Maine. I offer the following amendment, to come in after line one hundred and forty-four, on page 7: To enable the Commissioner of Public Buildings to repair the old Hall of the House of Representa- tives by removing the old floor and placing the whole generally in a proper condition, $1,500. I simply want to say in regard to that amendment that the Commissioner desires this sum, and says that it is absolutely necessary in order to put the Hall in anything like a decent condition, and inasmuch as the appropriation for fitting up the Hall as a hall of statuary, of which I was in favor, failed, I trust that the Hall will be decently repaired, so as not to be an eyesore to everybody. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. I move to amend the amendment, so as to provide for the removal of all the fruit stands and things of that- kind from the old Hall. Mr. Rice, of Maine. I accept that as a modification of my amendment. Mr. Stevens. I offer the following as a substitute for the amendment: Be it farther enacted, 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 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 protection of statuary, and the same shall be under the super- vision and direction of the 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 $20,000, is hereby set apart and shall be disbursed for the purposes 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 each State, of men who have been citizens thereof and illustrious from their historic renown or from distinguished civil or military services, such as each State shall 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 States, which is hereby set apart, or so much thereof as may be necessary, as a national statuary hall for the purposes herein indicated. Mr. Holman. I rise to a point of order. The moneys appropriated by law for the purpose of the Capitol extension cannot be, in an appropriation bill, diverted from that purpose to another. Mr. Stevens. Mr. Chairman, this item has reference to the Capitol itself, and is a part of the work upon the Capitol. Therefore, according to all the rulings, the amendment is perfectly in order. Whether or not it should be agreed to is an entirely different question. The Chairman. The Chair overrules the point of order. Mr. Stevens. I have offered that amendment because I know that the opposition of the gentleman from Maine to tinkering and patching that floor any more is a proper one. We have marble lying about here quite sufficient, as I understand from the architect, to make that floor. It is thought that it may be done for $5,000, though the appropriation asked is $20,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary. But it is believed that $5,000 will make a good marble floor and put up the railing. We all know how these beautiful columns are being destroyed and defaced by every person who chooses to inscribe a great man’s name upon them. They are really becoming ridiculous; and the worst of it is that the names of half the members of Congress are omitted. [Laughter.] I think it time that some pains were taken to preserve these beautiful pillars from dilapidation and ruin; and I think that the marble floor may be made out of the materials now on hand at a cost of no more than I have stated, which is the cheapest way of doing it. It is not adding anything to the appro- priation, but merely diverting it. Mr. Rice, of Maine. Mr. Chairman, I do not contend against this proposition. It is precisely the same as was reported some time since from the committee of which I have the honor to be chairman, and which passed the House. 358 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Price. Mr. Chairman, I know that it is no use to oppose any appropriation here, but I must at least protest against this. There are other appropriations in this bill which I presume could have been dispensed with. I do not, however, know the facts, and therefore did not oppose them. This appropriation, I am satisfied, we can dispense with. We all know that the Government has no money to expend’in super- fluous matters, for things that can be done without. Therefore I am opposed to the amendment of the gentleman from Pennsylvania, and to all other appropriations that can be dispensed with till this war is over. A Member on the Democratic side. It is out of order to say anything against an appropriation. Mr. Price. It may be out of order. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. It is undoubtedly out of order to speak against appro- priations in this House. Mr. Price. So far as appropriations are concerned I know there are always just enough of votes against any attempt to strike them out to secure the failure of such attempt. I would appeal to the other side of the House to come to the rescue; but unfortunately it is just as extravagant as this side. [Laughter.] I have almost lost all confidence in my friends here. They vote almost universally for such appropria- tions as are asked. I have not voted for a single appropriation that I knew to be wrong; and where I have voted for such as were superfluous, it has been through ignorance. I presume that some of the appropriations voted in have been wrong, but I do not know it; but I know that we can get along very well without expend- ing money on this old Hall till the war is over if it ever ends. And if it is not to end in a national triumph I do not want to have the work done for Jeff. Davis. I do not know that he is going to get possession of it, but I know that we require every dollar that the Government can get to pay our soldiers in the field, and to keep the machinery of war in operation. I therefore hope that no appropriation shall be made that can be dispensed with until we pay our honest debts to the country and to the soldiers in the field. Mr. Mallory. I rise to oppose the amendment of the gentleman from Iowa, and in doing so I may be permitted to express my gratification that the gentleman has at last learned where the true friends of economy are to be found in this House. I think he has paid only a deserved compliment to the Democratic party in saying that he will henceforward call only on that party to aid him against the extrava- gance proposed by gentlemen on the other side. Mr. Price. 1 merely wish to correct misapprehension in the mind of the gentleman from Kentucky. I have not at last arrived at the idea of appealing to gentlemen upon the other side to sustain me in matters of economy. I have done it continu- ally, but then there is another misapprehension on the part of the gentleman, which is in the supposition that any heed has been paid to my appeals. I find that they are almost invariably disposed to vote for these extravagant appropriations. Mr. Mallory. The statement of the gentleman from Iowa, then, is broader than I supposed. He says now he did not say that he hereafter would call on gentlemen on this side of the House, but that he has all along looked to us to sustain measures of economy. I merely wish to say to him and to other gentlemen on that side that they will do well to follow the lead of this side, not only in respect to voting down extravagant appropriations, but also in respect to great questions of public policy. I can tell the gentleman that he will find a great deal of good help over here if he will apply upon all these questions, and I take his disposition to call upon us as a good augury. In respect to this particular appropriation, however, I am afraid I cannot go with the gentleman. I confess, in this instance, I am in favor of the appropriation recommended by my venerable — perhaps I ought to say young — friend over there. The Old Building. 359 Mr. Stevens. I shall have to rise to a question of order. I desire to know whether it is in order for an old, gray, bald-headed man to call a young man venerable. [Laughter. ] The Chairman. The Chair sustains the question of order. [Laughter. ] Mr. Mallory. I beg pardon of the gentleman. Whatever gray hairs I may have are apparent, and if the gentleman’s were as much so, perhaps he might not raise the question of order. However, I give him the benefit of the protection he has provided himself with. [Renewed laughter.] Mr. Chairman, seriously I think this appropriation ought to pass, and I hope the House will not vote it down. It is not extravagant; it is something to which we ought to give a little attention. - 1 will, however, make one suggestion to the gentle- man. He provides for permitting each State to place in the old Hall, in bronze or marble, the statues of two of their most eminent living men. I think the amend- ment ought to say dead men. I think we ought to give these places to the memory of the great men of the nation who are gone, to those who are now dead or shall be at the time these statues are placed there. Mr. Stevens. I accept the suggestion of the gentleman, and will modify my amend- ment so as to say two persons already deceased, or deceased before the statues shall be received. Mr. Morrill. This question is not one connected with the question whether we shall continue the appropriations for the Capitol extension or not. If we continue them, then I contend that this is manifestly correct; if we do not continue them, I think this amendment ought to be adopted; it is doing nothing more than we ought to do for the preservation of the building. We have this marble here lying round the Capitol entirely useless; we also have machines so that it can be cut with the utmost facility and with very little delay. The old floor, as every one knows, is in a state of decay, and ought to be replaced. This proposition simply is to provide a marble floor such as now covers most of the rooms and corridors about the Capitol. If the foundation of the floor should prove to be sufficient, the expense would be very little; if that, too, has to be replaced, the expense will of course be something more. It does not necessarily increase the appropriation in the bill at all, and I hope the amendment will be adopted. Mr. Price. In reply to the gentleman from Vermont I want to say first this: I do not propose to vote for the appropriation of $300,000 to continue the work on this Capitol ; and I shall not vote for this, because if this passes it may be considered as a reason for voting for the other. I propose, therefore, to begin here. Now, I desire to say in respect to the gentleman from Kentucky, [Mr. Mallory,] who, after the speech made by him, declared his intention to vote for it, that, like a great many other men, his talk is good but his practice is bad. He talks economy well, but he votes economy badly. I want men to vote right, and I am not particular whether they talk right or not. I will say, Mr. Chairman, that there is not a member of this House who, in con- science, would make these appropriations in reference to their own private affairs. I think that we ought to confine ourselves to indispensable appropriations and do without everything that can be dispensed with until we have paid the expenses of this war. I do not want to see widows and orphans and disabled soldiers refused for want of money to pay their just claims while we are passing these appropriations which are entirely unnecessary. I will say that I have only succeeded, after pro- tracted effort, in securing the payment of $150 due to an Iowa soldier who lost his leg upon the battle-field during this war. While we refuse such paltry sums to our soldiers we vote millions, as if the Treasury were overflowing. Mr. Steele, of New York. Mr. Chairman, I do not propose to enter into any extended discussion on this subject, but in my judgment every soldier as well as 360 Documentary History of the Capitol. every man in this country feels a just pride in the Capitol of the nation. The last thing they want to see done is the work upon this building stopped. I hope that it will not be stopped. I hope that we shall go on with the improvements, and that all reasonable and proper expenses will be provided for, so that the work may be continued upon this great work in which the nation takes a just pride. I shall there- fore vote for this appropriation as reasonable and proper. Mr. Schenck. Mr. Chairman, I propose to vote for this amendment, and I do it mainly for the reason assigned by the gentleman from New York [Mr. Steele] who has just addressed the House. I never pass through the old Hall of the House of Representatives without feeling myself reproached by the spirits that haunt that place. I look around to see where the venerable John Quincy Adams trembled in his seat and voted, and I see a huckster woman selling gingerbread. I look to see where Calhoun sat — for there was a time when we might speak with reverence even of him — I look to see where he sat, and where Clay sat, and I find a woman selling oranges and root beer. I look around the floor where these men stood and uttered their patriotic sentiments in the day when patriotic sentiments were heard with rev- erence everywhere and by every man, and I see a floor rotting and trembling under my tread. Sir, I have none of that narrow feeling of economy of the gentleman from Iowa, [Mr. Price.] I believe there are occasions when liberality becomes true economy; and I know that it is important to keep a rallying point here of which we shall all be proud. I feel, with the gentleman from New York, that the expenditure is a proper one for an object that we much need, and that will repay us thousands. This Capitol is now the rallying point of our patriotism, and every part of it should be made to correspond with the greatness and glory of the Republic. Gen- tlemen look around in the gingerbread box in which we legislate now and seem to forget everything that ought to be kept in remembrance in connection with the old Hall, which I this day regard as better fitted for our deliberations than the beautiful room in which we now are. There is grandeur, simplicity, character to be found there not to be found here, and from which we are rapidly divesting it by the base uses to which we are suffering it to be put. Mr. Price. I should like to ask the gentleman a question. Mr. Schenck. I cannot yield. I am expressing some sentiments which will induce me to go for the appropriation. The gentleman has addressed the House some three or four times already on the subject. Mr. Chairman, the condition of that old Hall, I repeat, is a disgrace and a reproach to us. Why, as you enter that old Hall you pass by a bronze door which cost thirty- five or forty thousand dollars, twice as much as is proposed to keep the old Hall in order, and that bronze door opens upon these apple-stands and upon these hucksters. I would drive them all out, as others were scourged in former times from the tem- ples, and I would put in their places, if not the statues of the greatest men of the country, something at least which shall be creditable to this country, either in the shape of a library or works of art, and I would place the Hall in that good order and decent condition which will not make us blush as we pass through that Hall as we go from one end of this gilded building to the other. I stand, sir, by the old Hall; and for the reason that I wish it thus restored and made as it ought to be and no longer remain a disgrace to us, I shall vote for the amendment proposed by the gentleman from Pennsylvania. Mr. Price. In reply to the gentleman I will say that if he considers the expendi- ture of money which does not belong to us but belongs to other people as narrow- minded economy, then he and I have read political economy out of different books. It will be time enough to adorn that Hall when we have money to expend, and until that time arrives I shall oppose all amendments of that kind. The amendment to the amendment was agreed to. The amendment as amended w ; as agreed to. The Old Building. 361 [From the '"Act making Appropriations for sundry Civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending the Thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty-five, and for other Purposes," approved July 2, 1864. (Stat. at Large, v. 13, 347).] Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That a marble floor, similar to that of the con- gressional 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 other- wise required, 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 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 thousand dollars, is hereby set apart and shall be dis- bursed for the porses [purposes] 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 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 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 States, which is hereby set apart, or so much thereof as may be necessary, as a national statuary hall, for the purposes herein indicated. [From the annual report of Thomas U. Walter, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1864. (38-2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, 695.)] CENTRE BUILDING OF THE CAPITOL. In order to make a finish of the Capitol, it will be necessary to remove the present wooden cupolas from the centre building, and to reconstruct the entire roof; also to remove the immense stacks of chimneys which now disfigure the work. The finish which it was intended to give to the roof of this part of the Capitol, at the time the design for the extension was adopted, is shown by a wooden model of the entire structure, which was made when the wings were commenced, and is now in this office. The necessity for this improvement is twofold: first, as a matter of taste; the present unsightly structures, which disfigure the top of the old building, are alto- gether inconsistent with architectural propriety, and have been added from time to time since the work came out of the hands of its original architects; and, second, the whole of this roof, with all the constructions connected with it, are composed of wood, and are liable at any time to take fire and deface other portions of the work, as was the case with the old Congressional Library. The whole of the centre building is vaulted, so that if the wooden roofs were removed, and replaced by copper laid upon iron rafters, similar to those of the wings of the Capitol and the Congressional Library, the entire building would be wholly fire-proof. The old chimneys, before referred to, are a very great defect, and although they may not be vacated, the tops may be removed and so formed as to finish on a level with the balustrade, like those of the wings, without interfering with their draught. A few feet, more or less, in the height of these chimneys, situated as they are, at the base of such a structure as the dome, can have no effect upon their draught; other means than mere elevation must be resorted to in order to render them of an}' use to the building. At the present prices of materials and labor, it will require about $200,000 to effect these improvements. 362 Documentary History of the Capitol. [From the annual report of B. B. French, Commissioner of Public Buildings, Nov. 8, 1864. (38-2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pp. 680-1.)] In the course of the past season some very prominent improvements have been made. Congress appropriated $15,000 out of the appropriation for the Capitol exten- sion for constructing a marble floor and making other improvements in the old hall of the House of Representatives. This was a very limited sum for doing the large amount of work required, even when the provision of the act making the appropria- tion, that “such marble as may now be on hand, and not otherwise required,” should be used in tiling, is taken into consideration. The work was, however, com- menced in the most economical manner possible, and has gone on, and we expect, by the time Congress assembles, to have the passage way from the main entrance, from the rotundo to the bronze doors at the south side of the hall, finished and closed in with a proper railing. It is hoped that by employing men engaged on the Capitol extension, and using the waste material, that the entire job may be com- pleted for the sum appropriated, but it is very doubtful whether it can be. * * * Workmen are now engaged in removing the unsightly scaffolding in the centre of the rotundo, the temporary roof will soon be taken away, and the magnificent work of the inner dome, now completed, will be in view from the floor. No work that has ever been done in iron can surpass it, and it will, I have no doubt, be pronounced * by all most creditable to the architect who planned it, the iron workers who fur- nished it and put it up, and all concerned in any way in its erection and finish. It is one of the greatest works of the age. [House proceedings of Feb. 27, 1865: Congressional Globe, 38-2, p. 1149.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration the Senate amendments to the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial bill for 1866 — Twelfth amendment: On page 8, after line six, insert : For an enlargement of the Library of Congress, so as to include in two wings, built fire-proof, the space at either end of the present Library, measuring about eighty feet in length by thirty feet in width, in accordance with a plan to be approved by the Committee on the Library, $160,000. The Committee of Ways and Means recommended concurrence with an amend- ment to add the words “to be expended under the direction of the Secretary of the Interior.” The amendment to the amendment was agreed to. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. I would like to make an inquiry in reference to this matter. My attention was called in a differing direction when this amendment was read. Is it an amendment in regard to an appropriation for the enlargement of the Library? The Speaker. It is. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. I am opposed to it and I wish to state my reasons. This subject was before the Joint Committee on the Library of which I was a mem- ber, and they refused to recommend the appropriation. It is a very large one of $160,000, and I do not think the Treasury is in a situation to stand such an expendi- ture at this time. / Mr. Frank. The committee agreed to report it. Mr. Stevens. The Committee of Ways and Means have acted according to what they considered to be the action of the Joint Committee on the Library. We have no feeling about it. We would just as soon have it non- concurred in and let it go back to the Senate. The Old Building. 363 Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. I am as favorable to the Library as anybody here, and I would be glad to have this improvement made, yet I think we can postpone it for two or three years, when it will not cost half as much. Mr. Frank. Air. Speaker, the appropriation reported by the Committee of Ways and Means is necessary, because no more room exists in the Library for the continu- ally accruing accessions of books. It is necessary because a large portion of the books now belonging to Congress are unprovided with shelf-room, and inaccessible except at great expenditure of time and convenience. This applies especially to the set of British Parliamentary docu- ments, consisting of three thousand volumes in folio, full of invaluable information, which is daily wanted for reference. These volumes are all upon the floor, because no shelves can be provided for them in the present Library. It is necessary, in order to secure the invaluable Library which former Congresses have built up at great expenditures of care and money, from another fire. The books of the Library, from the first purchase of Air. Jefferson until date have cost some- what over four hundred thousand dollars. The fire of December, 1851, destroyed all except twenty thousand volumes of the Library. The present Library numbers over eighty-four thousand volumes, less than half of which (or forty thousand vol- umes) are contained in the fire-proof portion of the Library. The remainder are stored in dark corners and passage-ways of the old Capitol, surrounded with wood- work, and liable to accident, from the firing of a flue, (which was the occasion of the former fire, ) or other cause. It is necessary, in order to provide some space where current newspapers and peri- odicals, both American and foreign, can be filed and consulted by members; at present there are not ten feet of room anywhere for such a purpose, and the very valuable files of political and literary journals, taken in the Library are useless to Congress until bound, when they have lost their freshness, and much of their interest. The appropriation asked is 8160,000, and the plan of the architect accompanying the estimate proposes to provide an increase of room equal to nearly double the pres- ent fire-proof Library, which cost 892,000. The iron work was then put up in com- petition and the lowest of seven bids was accepted. The present estimate is, therefore far from extravagant, considering the enlargement secured, and it can be done for the amount, notwithstanding the advanced cost of materials, as the patterns from which the ornamental iron work was cast are still on hand. The present plan was originally designed to be carried out in 1852, when the Library room was rebuilt, but the space embraced in the two wings was then occupied by the House officers, and it was therefore left incomplete. Twelve years have elapsed, and the great increase of the Library has been such that its number of vol- umes is quadrupled, while no additional room of a permanent character has been provided. The Library has asked for no appropriation beyond its regular annual one for books since 1852, until last session, when 84,000 was appropriated for a marble floor in lieu of carpets. The Library had got along for eleven years with but one carpet and no renewal of furniture, exhibiting an economy of expenditure sufficiently rare, if not unequaled, in any department of the Government. It is therefore, with some confidence that Congress is now asked to provide permanently for the security of the invaluable literary stores which have been accummulated in the Capitol, and to pro- tect which from injury or destruction no amount of care can be ill bestowed. The constant donations from State Governments and from foreign Powers of works illustrating the history, statistics, politics, and legislation of our own country and of other parts of the world, cannot be accommodated. These donations might be largely increased upon application, without expense to the Library fund, and a vast amount of valuable information, useful in the practical legislation of Congress, could Documentary History of the Capitol. 364 be obtained, catalogued, and permanently filed for the use of members. Every State and Territory in the Union should have a file of its public documents in the Capitol, but the officers of the Library have been for years deterred from seeking these addi- tions, because there was not room enough to contain them. The appropriation required is not unreasonably high, as may be seen by comparing the cost of similar library accommodations elsewhere. The new reading-room of the British Museum (constructed entirely within the old edifice) cost £100,000, or $500,000. The Boston Public Library building cost (exclusive of the ground) $240,000. The sum of $160,000, although large in itself, is not so in comparison with the great object of providing safe and permanent room for this rich historical collection, which is rap- idly increasing, and much of which, if destroyed, could never be replaced. I think it is unnecessary to say anything more upon this subject. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. I move, pro forma, to increase the amount $1,000. 1 do not suppose that there is any doubt that this Library building may be improved; perhaps there is a necessity for this additional room. But I do say that 1 lliink we can get along without it a year or two longer as well as for the past two or three years; and that in one year from this time an appropriation of $100,000 would do the same amount of work that $160,000 will now do. Mr. Spalding. I wish to ask if this appropriation will add anything to the security of the Library as it now is? Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. I think myself the Library is sufficiently secure. This may add to the security of the Library, but I think it is sufficiently secure now" for all practical purposes. Mr. Frank. In reply to the gentleman from Ohio, [Mr. Spalding,] I would state that only about one half of the books connected with the Library, or belonging to the Library, are now in the fire-proof apartment. The other half are stored away in other rooms, liable to be destroyed by fire, as books were many years ago. This appropriation is designed to make it all fire-proof. Mr. Garfield. I think no gentleman will deny that any number of books left in a wooden receptacle are liable to destruction by fire. There is scarcely a library in the country, collegiate, State, or national, that has not, at some time, suffered to a greater or less extent by fire. And it is true that to-day you cannot find a single perfect set of the official archives of the Government anywhere in existence, because in 1851, under circumstances similar to those now existing, nearly the half of our Congressional Library was destroyed by fire. Now, when we have forty thousand books lying in a wooden receptacle, to leave them there liable to be burned Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. Where are those forty thousand volumes at this time? Mr. Garfield. All the books of the Library which are outside the fire-proof apart- ments of the Library are exposed to this danger. If the gentleman will go through the wrings of the building on either hand of the fire-proof apartment of the Library, he will find these cords and cords of our most valuable books stacked up on the floors. There is absolutely not even shelf room for them. And it is impossible to get at some of them without disturbing a pile of books perhaps twenty feet high in some instances. They are not available for use now because there is not even shelf room for them. Dare we go on and leave the third most valuable library in the United States of America in a condition in which it is liable to have one half of it destroyed? Really three fourths of the value of the Library may be destroyed by fire any day. Mr. Kasson. I would make a further statement in this connection. This appropri- ation was asked for and urged very strongly upon the Committee of Ways and Means at the last session, and the session before also. At the last session I know it was deferred for the same consideration now proposed, namely, that it may bear post- ponement still longer. The time has come when this is pressed again upon our con- sideration. Now, while I voted at that time for deferring this appropriation, I am The Old Building. 365 one of those who have become convinced that is altogether unsafe to continue that valuable library as it is now. And further, we are increasing the number of books every year, with no place in which to put them, or where they can be made useful; and we must either stop appropriating for books or we must provide additional room for them. Mr. Garfield. I am glad to hear the testimony of the gentleman from Iowa [Mr. Kasson] on this subject, and I would say further, that the additions to our Library in the way of donations are such that at the present rate we shall soon have no place at all in which to put them unless this appropriation is granted. I would be willing that almost an}' appropriation in this bill should be cut down, or should be entirely thrown out, rather than have this appropriation fail. I hope we will provide for saving the books we already have on hand rather than risk them for another year as they have been risked for a year past. Beside the question of risk, there is the question of utilizing our Library so as to make it available for members, which will lead me to vote for this appropriation. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. I withdraw my amendment to increase the appropri- ation $1,000. Mr. Wadsworth. I renew the amendment. I hope this Senate amendment will be adopted. As remarked by the gentleman from Iowa, [Mr. Kasson,] the attention of the Committee of Ways and Means, and of the Library Committee has heretofore been called to the necessity of this appropriation; and it was with a great deal of reluctance on my part that I was compelled, in view of the pressing necessities of the Government, to vote to defer this appropriation last year. But I am convinced that we are neglecting a very important duty that is pressing upon us. This appropriation rests upon two necessities, either of which ought to be sufficient to sustain it — the necessity of preserving our present Library, and the equal necessity of increasing, and improving, and enlarging that Library. If our present collection were perfectly safe, I trust we should not be content to neglect the proper extension and enlargement of our Library. As remarked by the gentleman from Ohio, [Mr. Garfield,] our present collection is not safe. Fully one half of that Library is exposed to the peril of fire; it is not in a secure fire-proof condition. The recent burning of the Smithsonian Institution should warn us that at any moment a much greater calamity may befall the Congressional Library. I do hope that by the votes of gentlemen on both sides of the House this appropriation may be made. Mr. Pruyn. I wish to say, Mr. Speaker, in reference to the condition of the Library, that I have visited it personally several times and I know that the statements which have been made on this floor in regard to its condition are true. A very great num- ber of valuable books are now piled on the floor. They are inaccessible, and liable to be destroyed by an accident such as that which happened several years ago. I wish also to say that adequate room should be provided in this building for a really national library, a library in which we can accumulate the materials of our own history, in which we are now lamentably deficient. It is mortifying to Ameri- cans, but it is a fact, that any person who may wish to write the history of our coun- try, must now go the British Museum; for its collection of American books is vastly superior to that of any library in this country. This should not be so. We should have ample arrangements for the reception of books, and after those arrangements are completed, a large appropriation should be made for the purpose of perfecting the great national Library of the country in respect to our own history, and putting it on a par at least with the library of the British Museum. I hope, therefore, that this appropriation will be made, as the gentleman from Kentucky has said, liberally and freely, by the votes of both sides of the House. Mr. Wadsworth. 1 withdraw my amendment to the amendment. Mr. Morrill. I call the previous question upon this amendment. The previous question was seconded, and the main question was ordered; and under the operation thereof the amendment was concurred in. 366 Documentary History of the Capitol. [From the “Act making appropriations for the legislative, executive, and judicial expenses of the Government for the Year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and sixty-six, and additional appropriations for the current fiscal Year,” approved Mar. 2, 1865. (Stats, at Large, v. 13, 448.)] For an enlargement of the library of congress, so as to include in two wings, built fire-proof, the space at either end of the present library, measuring about eighty feet in length by thirty feet in width, in accordance with a plan to be approved by the committee on the library, one hundred and sixty thousand dollars, to be expended under the direction of the Secretary of the Interior. [From the annual report of B. B. French, Commissioner of Public Buildings, Oct. 12, 1865. (39-1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, 799.)] THE CAPITOL. The old building has undergone many changes since my last report. When that was made we had just commenced constructing the marble floor in the old hall of representatives. The appropriation of $15,000 was expended, and a further appro- priation of three thousand eight hundred and seventy-five dollars was made at the last session to complete the same. The work has been completed for some time, and the attention of the President has been called to the law of July 2, 1864, authorizing him “to invite each and all the 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 historic renown or from distinguished civic or military services, such as each State shall determine to be worthy of this national commemoration,” to be placed in that hall, which, by that act, was set apart, “or so much thereof as may be necessary, as a National Statuary Hall.” And I have received official notice from the Department of State that circulars had been sent to the governors of all the States, notifying them of the law of Congress, and inviting them to call the attention of their several legislatures to the subject. No statuary has yet been sent from any of the States. Under the law of last session, authorizing “an enlargement of the library of Con- gress so as to include in two wings, built fire proof, the space at either end of the present library,” and appropriating $160,000 therefor, the work is now going on most successfully, under the contract made with the Architectural Iron Works Com- pany, of New York, by your direction, by which that company contracted to do the work, in accordance with certain specifications drawn out by the architect of the Capitol extension, Thomas U. Walter, esq., for the sum of $146,000. The work has now progressed so far as that the insides of the two wings are torn out, and are both ready to receive the roofs, which will be in place probably before the meeting of the ensuing Congress. The roofs once on, the other work will proceed rapidly to completion. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1865. (39-1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, 811.)] ENLARGEMENT OF THE CONGRESSIONAL LIBRARY. The walls and arches have been taken out of the north and south w'ings, and the iron rafters are being placed over the north wing. Nearly all the alcoves, shelves, galleries, &c., for one room are prepared at the foundry in New York, and will soon be ready for shipment. Owing to some inaccuracy in the plans, some changes have been made in the rafters, which will lead to slight delay and increased expenditure. The Old Building. 367 An offset in the walls of the south wing has been discovered since the partition walls were taken out, which will increase the depth of some of the alcoves, and conse- quently their capacity for books. Additional shelving has been ordered, so as to make serviceable every portion of the wall space. The gallery leading to the dome, which cut off part of the library-room in the north wing, has been abolished, and the approach made by a gallery across the small court. This change adds much to the capacity of the library. It is proposed to change the mode of heating, from warm-air furnaces to steam; the heat from warm-air furnaces being considered objectionable, and, in such large rooms, uncertain. [From the annual report of James Harlan, Secretary of the Interior, Dec. 4, 1865. (39 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. xvi.)] An act of last session authorized “an enlargement of the Library of Congress, so as to include in two wings, built fire-proof, the space at either end of the present Library.” The then architect of the Capitol extension prepared the requisite plans and specifi- cations for the work. Competition was invited by newspaper publication in several of the large cities of the Union, and a contract for the labor and materials awarded to a responsible party for the sum of $146,000, being $14,000 less than that appropri- ated by Congress. The work, although delayed by unforeseen causes, has been faithfully and successfully prosecuted, and its completion will not be long deferred. Additional expenditure must be incurred for the introduction of water into the Library, the cutting off and replacing the gas mains which supplied the building and passed through the wings which will be occupied by the Library, and other incidental alterations which were not anticipated and specified by the architect, but which, as the work progresses, are found to be necessary. [From the “Act making additional Appropriations, and to supply the Deficiencies in the Appropria- tions for sundry civil Expenses of the Government for the fiscal Year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty-six, and for other Purposes,” approved April 7, 1866. (Stat. at Large, v. 14, 18.)] For fitting up rooms in the basement, under the court-room of the Supreme Court, for a consultation room for the court, six thousand five hundred dollars. [From the “Act making Appropriations for sundry Civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and sixty-seven, and for other Purposes,” approved July 28, 1866. (Stats, at Large, v. 14, 317.)] CONGRESSIONAL LIBRARY. To complete the extension of the library of Congress, twenty-two thousand dollars. For furniture for the two wings of the extension of the congressional library, and for sliding cases for illustrated books, ten thousand dollars. [From the annual report of O. H. Browning, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 19, 1866. (39-2, House Ex. Doe. No. 1, 14.)] The extension of the Library is nearly completed. The work has been done in the most substantial and elegant style, and the rooms are now an appropriate setting for the rich literary treasures within them. It is proposed to heat them with steam 368 Documentary History of the Capitol. from the boilers in the basement, by means of Gould’s apparatus. The Commis- sioner of Public Buildings urges, on sanitary grounds, the necessity of warming the passages of the center building, and of improving the manner of heating and venti- lating the Supreme Court rooms. The expenditures on the Library extension from October 31, 1865, were $137,926 61, leaving a balance of $31,129 50. [From the “Act making Appropriations for sundry Civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and sixty-eight, and for other Purposes,” approved Mar. 2, 1867. (Stat. at Large, v. 14, 462.)] For heating with steam the Supreme Court room, law library, and the passages and stairways adjacent [to] the court-room, and for other improvements and repairs of said court-room, fifteen thousand dollars. [From the “Act making Appropriations and to supply Deficiencies in the Appropriations for the Service of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and sixty- seven, and for other Purposes,” approved Mar. 2, 1867. (Stats, at Large, v. 14, 469.)] For six iron stairways, repairs and repainting in the library of Congress, and for a new skylight in the central library, five thousand two hundred and sixty dollars. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1867. (40-2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 526.)] ENLARGEMENT OF THE CONGRESSIONAL LIBRARY. The wings have been completed, and the additional stairways supplied. New glass have been put in the inner skylight, and other improvements and repairs have been made to the principal room. This work has been more extensive than was originally contemplated; the princi- pal items being the enlargement of the north wing, and supplying additional shelving. There are over 4,000 lineal feet more shelving than was at first provided for. Some changes had to be made for the accommodation of the books of the Smithsonian library, and in consequence of the expense attending these and other changes, the funds appropriated have not been sufficient to pay the claims. A balance is due the Architectural Iron Works Company of $5,922 46, for which deficiency an appropria- tion is asked. [From the “Act making Appropriations and to supply Deficiencies in the Appropriations for the Service of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and sixty- eight, and for other Purposes,” approved July 25, 1868 (Stats, at Large, v. 15, 172.)] Capitol Building . — For the payment of outstanding liabilities incurred by the late commissioner of public buildings for materials furnished and labor done in repairing the old portion of the capitol building prior to and during the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and sixty-seven, five thousand four hundred and eighty- four dollars and twenty -two cents: Provided, That no part of the sum hereby appro- priated shall be paid until the said accounts shall have been fully examined and approved by the proper accounting officers of the treasury. The Old Building. 369 [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1873. (43-1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 1, 767.)] Attention is called to the unfinished condition of the rotunda and inner portion of the dome. I recommend that its walls be encrusted with ornamental marbles; the pilasters and first cornice taken away, and the floor laid with encaustic tile. I?y omitting the first cornice, and letting the story terminate at the line of the second cornice, which cornice should be enlarged, the wall of the rotunda will have greater apparent height, and the anomaly of three cornices — similar members — so near each other, will be abolished. Lofty doorways, with sculptured enrichment, should be made, and the vault of the rotunda decorated with painted enrichments. While these changes will entail a large expenditure, I consider them necessary to make a complete and harmonious finish to this the principal feature of the building. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and seventy-five, and for other purposes,’’ approved June 23, 1874. (Stats, at Large, v. 18, 214.)] For replacing the defective portion of the roof on the Capitol, near the dome, by a copper roofing of fireproof construction, and for erecting fire- walls, fifteen thousand dollars: Provided, That such portion of the old materials as cannot be used profitably in the repairs of the Capitol shall be sold and the proceeds covered into the Treasury. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, Oct. 1, 1877. (45-2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 1, 899.)] The belt of the Rotunda, intended to be enriched with bassorelievos, is being em- bellished in real fresco, representing in light and shadow events in our history, arranged in chronological order, beginning with the landing of Columbus and ending with a period of our revolutionary history. [Senate proceedings of June 9, 1880: Congressional Record, 46-2, p. 4330.] The Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, having under consideration the Sun- dry Civil bill for 1881— Mr. Morrill. I have one more amendment from the Committee on Public Build- ings and Grounds to offer. The Presiding Officer. The amendment will be reported. The Chief Clerk. After line 1596 it is proposed to insert: For fire-proofing the old Hall of Representatives and the rooms adjoining, and for shelving in the basement and cellar stories, such rooms as the Speaker of the House of Representatives may select for the reception of books, files, and stationery, which are to be moved from the rooms connected with the old Hall, $36,500: Provided , That so much of the sum herein appropriated as may be neces- sary for the reconstruction of the inner portion of the Hall may be used during the present fiscal year, and the balance for changing the roof is hereby made available during the fiscal year ending June 30, 1882. Mr. Morrill. 1 desire to say that if that amendment shall pass it will take from the Treasury but $10,000 this year, and the remainder will be expended the next year. I will state the necessity for the amendment. The roofs over the old Senate Chamber and over the old Plall of the House of Representatives are nothing but wood, and they are surrounded by immense piles of II. Rep. (>46 2L 370 Documentary History of the Capitol. documents and papers that are very combustible. If a fire were to occur under either of these roofs it would be very destructive to the Capitol. I feel that there is a great responsibility upon the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds for years that this has been neglected. It is quite time that this Capitol, at least, should be made fire-proof. These two roofs over the old Senate Chamber and the old Hall of the House of Representatives are composed of nothing but wood, and I trust there will be an entire willingness on the part of the Senate to have these two roofs replaced, one to begin this year, and the appropriation will probably be made the next year for the other. This §10,000 would be expended in fixing the lower part of the Hall so as to sustain the roof, and so as to make that fire-proof as well as the rest of the building. There is now merely a wooden partition separating it from a room of documents. Mr. Beck. When the Senator fiom Vermont was before the subcommittee this question was very well presented by him, but we came to a conclusion which I desire to state for the benefit of the Senate, and they may do as they like. All that portion of the Capitol that lies beyond the center of the Rotunda • Mr. Morrill. I desire to correct the Senator so far as that fact is concerned. Mr. Beck. I have not stated one yet. Mr. Morrill. The Statuary Hall is set apart by a special act of Congress, and is no more under control of the House of Representatives than of the Senate. It is placed exclusively under the control of the Architect of the Capitol. Mr. Beck. We regarded the Senate and the House as taking jurisdiction up to the center of the Rotunda. All the rooms beyond that on the other side are occupied by the House, and those on this side by the Senate. When the question came up as to repairing the roof of the old Hall of the House of Representatives and of arrang- ing it under the the direction of the Speaker of the House into such rooms as might be of most use to the House of Representatives, we regarded that as a matter which the House of Representatives themselves ought to attend to and ought to arrange. They have made no suggestion in that direction, and do not seem to desire any addi- tional room or to have any fitted up for their use. The Committee on Appropriations of the Senate did not think that it was a proper thing for us to do, especially as there is some jealously between the two Houses with regard to the jurisdiction over divers matters, to be fitting up rooms under the direction of the Speaker of the House of Representatives for the use of the House of Representatives. When they want any- thing done at that end of the Capitol they will be sure to send us here the appropriation to do it. That is the idea we had. I think it is safer and better to let this alone at present, especially as there is no urgent necessity except the fact that these roofs are not fire-proof. They may burn up, of course, next year, but they have been stand- ing a good many years without burning up, and I hope will stand a hundred years longer without burning up. In the midst of so many necessary appropriations we did not feel, first, like inter- fering with the House in matters at their end of the Capitol, and, second, in spending money except where it is absolutely necessary for the public good. For that reason we could not recommend the amendment. Mr. Morrill. The exigency is so great that I shall ask for the yeas and nays upon this amendment. Mr. Beck. All right. The yeas and nays were ordered. Mr. Cockrell. I should like to ask the Senator from Vermont why he puts in an appropriation for the fiscal year 1882 when there will be another session of Congress before the proper appropriations for that year are made? Mr. Morrill. For the reason that it is necessary to make contracts for the iron roof in advance, and there is no time to do it this year after the meeting of Congress in December; but there would be time if the appropriation is made in this form to make The Old Building. 371 contracts for the iron roof; and next year will be the short session of Congress, and there will be ample time to complete it. There would not be this year. Mr. Cockrell. Will the Senator answer another question? Mr. Morrill. I will, if 1 can. Mr. Cockrell. I believe the Senator from Vermont was chairman for a long series of years of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds of the Senate, and 1 believe that the party to which he belongs had absolute control of the Senate and the House. I have not been advised of any increase in the risk and danger of loss by fire in the last six months or a year. If this thing was so absolutely important, why did not the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds during the eight or ten years last past have provision made for securing the building against these risks and loss, and why is it so urgent just at this particular time that we shall not only appropriate for this fiscal year but for the fiscal year 1882? Mr. Dawes. The Senator from Missouri really forgets. The Senator from Ver- mont has been, in season and out of season, year after year, pressing this measure, and the danger has been increasing year after year as the documents are piled up under the roof there and old furniture put in there. Shavings are put in there from repairs, and every year adds to the danger of burning down the middle part of this Capitol, if not the whole of it. When the Senator from Vermont represented the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, when he was chairman of it, and when some one else was chairman of it during the last Congress, these same meas- ures were brought forward and urged upon Congress, but Congress does not seem willing to listen until the danger is upon it. Even the Senator from Kentucky thinks that it is safer as against fire not to interfere with the province of the House of Representatives over the other side of a line drawn through the center of the Ro- tunda, as if the fire when it broke out would pay any particular regard to that line when it was consuming the roof of this building. He presents the idea that it would be safer to keep distinctly in mind where the dividing line in this building is between the House of Representatives and the Senate when you undertake to pro- tect the roof from fire, when it is all packed up full of documents and books! Two or three years ago we undertook to dispose of a quantity of those books to make room for more, and the place is filled up with documents. I trust, with the Senator from Kentucky, that no fire will come there, but I do not think it will be perfectly safe to dispose of it on a question of jurisdiction. A fire does not stop to consider the jurisdiction. I suggest to the Senator from Missouri that the Senator from Vermont is the last man against whom this complaint should be made; and so of any other member of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds of this Congress or of any of the last five Congresses, who have had occasion to know to what this building is exposed. If any person should go with a lighted candle or with a cigar, or if anybody should come in contact with the gas-light up under these roofs or drop a match or anything of that kind, it would consume the whole of them; it could not be extinguished, and we should then stop, I suppose, in the Senate Chamber to plead the question of jurisdiction. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment of the Senator from Vermont, [Mr. Morrill,] on which the yeas and nays have been ordered. The question being taken by yeas and nays, resulted — yeas 23, nays 21. * * * So the amendment was agreed to. Mr. Beck. I desire to give notice that I shall ask for a separate vote by yeas and nays on this amendment in the Senate. Mr. Morrill. And I hope we shall have a very much larger vote in favor of it at that time. 372 Documentary History o f the Capitol. [Senate proceedings of June 15, 1880: Congressional Record, 46-2, p. 4561.] The Senate having under consideration the conference report on the sundry civil bill for 1881 — Mr. Beck. There are some items, very small, in relation to the improvement of the Senate Chamber, which the Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill] laid before our committee; they are agreed to. As to the amendment in relation to Statuary Hall, that was agreed to. But amendment numbered 122, which was inserted by the Senate, providing that the stationery, tiles, and books of the House were to be removed from the rooms connected with the old hall, the House conferees protested, as I believed they would, that they could not have their tiles placed down in the basement; that we had no power to require them to do so. They did not want this requirement put upon them, and I am bound to say that I receded from that some- what willingly, although the Senator from Vermont was very anxious about it. The House was determined not to change their committee-rooms except on careful examination of what was best to have done themselves, and as it pertains solely to them their arguments were very good, I think. At any rate, they would not listen to this amendment being made part of the bill. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, Oct. 1, 1880. (46-3, House Ex. Hoc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 2, 437.)] Bpt little progress has been made on the frescoes of the belt in the Dome, owing to the illness and death of the late Constantino Brumidi. Philip Costagini, an artist of acknowledged merit, educated in the same school as the former artist, is now engaged on these frescoes, and shows by his work that he is a master in the art. [From the “ Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-two, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1881. (Stats, at Large, v. 21, 449.) ] * * * For work on the Capitol and general repairs thereof, for fire-proofing the gallery of the National Statuary Hall and the rooms adjoining, for shelving the rooms for the accommodation of the House documentary library, for cutting doorway from the northwestern room to connect the Congressional Library, and for shelving such rooms in the basement story of the south wing of the Capitol as the Speaker may designate for the reception of the stationery and files to be moved from the rooms connected with the Hall, fifty thousand dollars. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, Oct. 1, 1881. (47-1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, V. 2, 822.)] Mr. Costaggini has painted in fresco on the belt of the rotunda the “ Settlement of New England,” “Oglethorp and the Indians,” and “Lexington.” He has also com- pleted “Penn and the Indians,” left unfinished by Mr. Brumidi, and he is now engaged on the “Reading the Declaration of Independence.” It is proper to state here, that Mr. Brumidi made the designs for these sections only in small size and Mr. Costaggini has had to make the full-sized cartoons. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 10, 1882: Congressional Record, 47-1, p. 1946.] Mr. Voorhees. The Joint Select Committee on additional accommodations for the Library of Congress directed the Librarian some time ago to propound certain inter- The Old Building. 373 rogatories to General Meigs on the subject of the proposed reconstruction of the Capitol building. The answer of General Meigs, together with the letter addressed to him by Mr. Spofford, by the direction of the committee, I present to the Senate and ask that they may be printed for the use of the Senate and referred to the joint select committee. The President pro tempore. It will be so ordered, if there be no objection. [Senate Mis. Doc. No. 65, 47th Congress, 1st Session. Letter from Major-General M. C. Meigs, in response to questions from the Joint Select Committee on Additional Accommodations for the Library, touching the proposed plan for raising the dome of the Capitol in order to secure addi- tional space. March 16, 1882. — Referred to the Select Committee on Additional Accommodations for the Library of Congress and ordered to be printed.] Library of Congress, Washington, March 9, 1882. Sir: I am desired by the chairman of the Joint Select Committee on Additional Accommodations for the Library of Congress to request your views regarding a pro- posed plan for raising the dome of the Capitol 50 feet, in order to secure additional space in and near the rotunda for the Library. The points concerning which your judgment is requested may be embodied in the following queries: 1. Will the old foundations, being constructed for a building of 69 feet in height, be able to stand the additional weight of a superincumbent structure of another 50 feet height? 2. Will the old walls, which were constructed to sustain no further burden than the roof, be strong enough to bear the proposed additional stories, which include walls, partitions, fire-proof floors, iron shelving, and a dead-load of books and papers closely packed together, with the accidental weights to which library floors are subject? 3. Will the foundations of the circular dome-wall, originally constructed for a wooden dome, and now bearing the load of the iron dome, be strong enough if an additional wall of 50 feet height be inserted between the present wall and the dome proper? 4. Will the present wall of the dome be strong enough to carry an additional wall of 50 feet in height? 5. What is your opinion of the scheme of bodily raising the dome 50 feet higher, especially in view of the fact that its foundation is 117 feet below the base of it proper? And what is your opinion of taking it to pieces and putting it up again? 6. Could that scheme (provided it were otherwise practical) be executed without demolishing the entire old or center part of the Capitol building? Is it a practical scheme or a visionary one? With high respect, your obedient servant, A. R. Spofford, Librarian of Congress. Maj. Gen. M. C. Meigs, Washington, L>. C. Washington, March, 13, 1882. Hon. A. R. Spofford, Librar ian of Congress: Sir: I return the questions submitted to me by you at the request of the Commit- tee on Additional Accommodations for the Library of Congress, and reply to them. In 1856, upon request of a committee of Congress, I reported upon the strength of the walls of the dome and their ability to bear the weight of the iron dome then in 374 Documentary History of the Capitol. course of erection under my superintendence. This report and the calculations of strength and stability will be found in Id. It. Mis. Doc. No. 65, 1856, Thirty-fourth Congress, first session. In 1860, the dome having been raised to a height of about 60 feet above the cornice of the rotunda, this question was again raised, and Capt. W. B. Franklin, then in charge, again investigated it with the aid of more complete working drawings of the iron work at a period when the work had made greater progress. His conclusions will be found in Senate Mis. Doc. No. 29, Thirty-sixth Congress, 1860, first session, at pages 8 to 11. These may be stated as follows: Pounds. Total weight upon upper part of dome supporting wall, at its weakest section 13, 600, 000 Pressure per square foot upon the masonry of the wall at that weakest part 10, 700 Load upon the foundation walls at level of cellar floor 51, 292, 000 Pressure per square foot 13, 071 The greatest pressure per square foot is at the level of the basement floor, where the total weight is 44,770,000 pounds, and the pressure per square foot is 13,477 pounds, say 13,500 pounds. The experiments which I made in 1856 upon the strength of brick and mortar gave the breaking strain at from 192,000 pounds to 339,000 pounds per square foot. General Morin’s experiments gave for brick from 123,000 up to 307,277 pounds per square foot. Ten thousand seven hundred pounds, the pressure at the weakest point of the sus- taining wall, is less than one-eleventh of the least strength of brick, as given by General Morin and by my own experiments. The pressure at the level of the basement floor appears to be less than one-fiftieth of that necessary to crush the stone of which the wall appears at that, point to be built. The project upon whose safety I am invited to give an opinion, appears from your letter, and from the elevation thereof which I have seen, to be to raise the roof of the center building of the Capitol fifty feet, and in doing this to raise the ironwork of the dome by the same height. To consider the effect first of raising the dome. This w r ould require the interposi- tion of 50 feet of masonry between the part to be lifted and the wall at the point of separation. The supporting wall now properly proportioned to its load, is five feet thick. Its mean length, being the circumference of the circle, is 31 1 feet. It would contain, there- fore, 77,750 feet of additional brick masonry, which would weigh 7,750,000 pounds. This is more than one-half what the wall now carries, and would, therefore, increase by more than one-half the load per square foot upon the masonry, now 10,700 pounds, making it 16,000, which is beyond the limit or coefficient of safety almost universally adopted by architects and engineers, even for walls of moderate height as compared with their thickness. But as the thin 5-foot wall of the rotunda is now 37 feet high above the tops of the adjoining w r alls which tend to support it, if we add 50 feet thereto we shall have a thin unbraced wall 87 feet in height, upon the lower part of which will be a load of 21,324,000 pounds, producing a pressure at its weakest section greater than the limit in universal use by architects and engineers of reputation. I do not think, therefore, that it will be prudent to put this additional load upon the w r alls under the dome. The walls of the center building were designed and built by Mr. Latrobe, a most eminent, skillful, and well-educated architect. It is to be presumed that he duly proportioned their dimensions to the load which he intended them to bear. Our The Old Building. 375 examination of the walls of the rotunda by the same architect shows that they are justly^ proportioned to their load, which, contrary to the common opinion, has not been much increased by the substitution of an iron for a wooden dome. The wooden dome sprang from a great mass of masonry, which was removed before the iron work was begun, and the table at page 10 of Doc. 29, Report of Captain Franklin, shows that the load per square foot upon the wall at floor of basement is less than it was originally, and that at the top of the part of the old wall retained it has been increased by only 1,631 pounds per square foot above that for which Mr. Latrobe designed it. By the only plan of the center building now within my reach the outer walls of of its upper story appear to be 3 feet thick. It would, therefore, not be wise to nearly double their height and to add to the load upon them the weight of two additional stories and two more floors with the enormous load which past experience shows a library floor is to be subjected to when, the shelf space being all filled, the rooms become storerooms for books. Bookbinders with modern hydraulic presses so con- solidate their volumes that bound books must be classed as heavy goods, and store- houses for their preservation must be made of great strength. It became my duty to examine into the condition of the walls and foundations of the old building while engaged in the construction of the dome. I cut into the foundation wall near the northwest corner of the main center building, or of the library projection; I do not now remember which. But it was into a south wall near one of those corners. I found the mortar to be of lime and sand, having no consistency in the heart of the wall. Cement was not used when that building was erected. The mortar was soft, easily removed from the joints by the fingers without the aid of tools, and when squeezed in the hand it retained the shape thus given to it like plastic clay. For a short distance from the faces of the wall it had dried. But this was its condition in the heart of the masonry. The soil on which the wall rested being exposed, it proved to be rather moist clay into which, after so many years compression by this lofty wall, I had no difficulty in sinking the blade of a common spade by putting my weight upon it. An inspection of the keystones of the arches over the lower windows of this part of the building shows that they have dropped, some of them more than others. These keystones are wedge shape and could drop only by the spreading in length of wall in which they are inserted. Therefore, these have already, and under their present load been motion, settlement, in the walls of the center or old portion of the Capitol. The columns of the north and south porticos are of Aquia Creek sandstone, of the weakest stone and of the weakest order known to classic architecture. The proportions of the five classic orders are held by artists to be the most perfect and correct productions of art in architecture. The Corinthian, the lighest column, is always reserved for the upper stories of a building, those carrying the least load. For a portico or colonnade in the lower story, the Tuscan, the Doric, or the Ionic is always used. In this case it is proposed to raise another set of porticos fifty feet in height upon the columns of sandstone built to support only one entablature. An inspection of the heavier order of sandstone columns on the south front of the Patent Office, which are of the Grecian- Doric order, one of the stoutest and strongest of the classic orders, shows that many of them are split from bottom to top by the weight of the pediment which they support. It does not appear, therefore, to be prudent to put 50 feet more of portico upon those sandstone columns of the old Capitol. You do not ask my opinion upon the architectural effect of putting 50 feet more upon the center building and dome of the Capitol. I have had to study this build- ing for years, and my admiration for the genius and skill of the architect, Latrobe, increases with years. 376 Documentary History of the Capitol. What has been added to it has been mere extension to accommodate the needs of a growing nation. The wings are of the same order and harmonize in style and detail with Latrobe’s work. When the building was so greatly extended horizon- tally by addition of the wings, something was needed to mark more distinctly the center, and a dome rising 288 feet above the ground was added. I think that this is all that was needed, and that the building is now complete. Were the walls on which it rests of sufficient strength, it would be possible to lift the dome vertically fifty feet into the air, building up the wall as it rose, for, with a sufficient base to work upon, enough screws could be used to lift the eight or ten millions of pounds which it would be necessary to lift. But with a base of at least doubtful strength, it would be a dangerous and perhaps fatal enterprise. To take it to pieces and rebuild it is possible, though very costly. But the proportions of the supporting walls as above described forbid either attempt. To raise the center, even were it safe, would not improve its architecture. To thrust out the central portico beyond the line of those of the wings would reduce the apparent size of the building, for in oblique views the projecting center would conceal the portico of either the Senate or House wing. Whereas now, from all eastern points of view from north to south, all three porticos are distinctly seen, and nowhere is to be found a great building of such rich and graceful composition as the present Capitol of the United States. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, M. C. Meigs, Brevet Major-General , U. S. A., retired. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-four, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1883. (Stats, at Large, v. 22, 632.)] To convert the rooms adjoining the Old Hall of Representatives, excepting the rooms occupied as the document and stationery rooms, together with the rooms and passages connected with them in the gallery story, including the gallery itself, and the space over the entablature of the colonnade at the south end of the hall, to the use of the library of the House of Representatives, and make the same to communi- cate with the Library of Congress, through the document-room, ten thousand dollars. [From the annual report of Cornelius N. Bliss, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 16, 1897. (55-2, House Doc.. No. 5, cii. )] The Architect calls attention to the unfinished frieze in the Rotunda, and recom- mends the completion thereof, and an appropriation for complete renovation and painting of the Rotunda and main arch of the Dome. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect, of the Capitol, July 1, 1899. (56-1, House Hoc. No. 5, Mis. Reps.,pt. 1,415 and 429.)] EXPLOSION AND FIRE. On the afternoon of Sunday, November 6, 1898, the Supreme Court section of the Capitol Building was damaged by an explosion, succeeded by a fire of considerable intensity. The following is given as the result of a thorough investigation made by this office, assisted by Glenn Brown, esq. , architect, and Prof. Charles E. Munroe, expert on explosives. The reports of Messrs. Brown and Munroe are printed in full in the appendix to this report, and are evidences of the faithful manner in which their ivork was undertaken, and for which I now express my thanks. SUPREME COURT CHAMBER, 1890 (OLD SENATE CHAMBER). The Old Building. 377 During the progress of the investigation into the cause of the explosion several theories were advanced and successively taken up. The subjects were: Explosives criminally placed, sewer gas, gases generated from electric wires and coal bunkers, and illuminating gas. The last proposition, that the explosion was caused by illumi- nating gas, was, by the nature of evidence, the one most worthy of acceptance. * -x- -* I beg to call attention to the necessity for fireproofing the roof of the old portion of the Capitol, and for some action which will provide iireproof cases for the docu- ment rooms and libraries in the building. I recommend that an appropriation be made for this work in accordance with estimates hereafter submitted. The following is also recommended and estimates therefor will be submitted: For completing the frieze in the Rotunda and for painting and decorating the Rotunda and interior of the Dome. For the construction of new elevators for the House wing of the Capitol in accord- ance with increased needs of Congress. For the improvement of the ventilation of the IlalL of Representatives and the introduction of improved machinery to accomplish same. For continuing the new roof over the committee rooms in the terrace and extend- ing same to the northeast and southeast corners of the building. [Senate proceedings of Dec. 7, 1899: Congressional Record, 56-1, p. 136.] Mr. Spooner introduced a joint resolution (S. R. 28) relating to the use of the rooms lately occupied by the Congressional Library in the Capitol; which was read twice by its title, and referred to the Committee on Rules. [Senate proceedings of Dec. 11, 1899: Congressional Record, 56-1, p. 177.] SPACE FOR COMMITTEE ROOMS. Mr. Spooner. I am directed by the Committee on Rules, to whom was referred the joint resolution (S. R. 28) relating to the use of the rooms lately occupied by the Congressional Library in the Capitol, to report it favorably without amendment, and I ask the unanimous consent of the Senate that it be acted upon at this time. There being no objection, the joint resolution was considered as in Committee of the Whole. Mr. Spooner. I will say about the joint resolution that under the law as it now stands both Houses have jurisdiction of the space. It is necessary, therefore, to pass a joint resolution giving each House a portion of the space. A similar measure has heretofore passed the Senate. If this joint resolution shall pass the other House, it will give us twelve new committee rooms. The plans are already made, and it is of the utmost importance for the convenience of Senators and the transaction of pub- lic business in the Senate that we should have those committee rooms at the earliest possible time. The joint resolution was reported to the Senate without amendment, ordered to be engrossed for a third reading, read the third time, and passed. [Senate Document No. 40, 56th Congress, 1st Session. Congressional Reference Library. Letter from the Librarian of Congress relative to a “Congressional Reference Library at the Capitol.” Dec. 14, 1899. — Referred to the Committee on the Library and ordered to be printed.] The Library of Congress, Washington , December 13, 1899. Sir: In considering the removal of the main portion of the Library of Congress to the new building, it has always, 1 believe, been assumed that there would remain, 378 Documentary History of the Capitol. or be replaced, in the Capitol, certain books of reference. Indeed, the present appro- priation act provides for certain attendants for a ‘ ‘ Congressional reference library at the Capitol.” The purpose of such reference books would be to give immediate response to such inquiries, as, to be answered effectively, must be answered imme- diately; and, second, to aid to the use of the main collection by suggesting authorities in the literature of any given subject. No Congressional reference library at the Capitol now exists. The Library of Congress is represented there merely by the terminal of the pneumatic tube and book railway. Any books desired from it for the use of members, even for the simplest inquiry, must traverse a distance which, with the request, represents half a mile and a delay of from twenty to thirty minutes. During the past few months the authorities of the Library have been getting together certain books to form the basis of a reference collection at the Capitol. These are partly duplicates culled from the main collection and partly the result of purchases which, under the circumstances, I have felt justified in making to the extent of nearly $2,000 from our general appropriation for books. These amount to over 2,000 volumes; encyclopedias, dictionaries, atlases, gazetteers, manuals, and standard reference books, particularly in history and statistics; the best collected editions of the writings of the fathers of the Republic, and miscellaneous material in government, political, and economic science. With the above are certain books upon topics likely to be under discussion during the present session — e. g., finance, subsidies, interoceanic canals, colonial administration. These latter constitute a special deposit which may be changed from time to time as occasion may require. Together with the above material would be placed the best bibliographic aids that could be furnished for supplying information ( 1 ) as to what the Library of Congress contains; (2) as to what is contained in the other libraries of the District; (3) as to what is in print upon any given subject. In charge of this material would be placed attendants who would offer competent personal assistance to its use, and would make requisition upon the main collection for such further material as may currently be required to answer particular inquiries. Within three weeks the first installment of the above collection will be ready for use, but space for it in the Capitol has yet to be assigned. It will require shelving and space for consultation and administration. The shelving should be open and well lighted, so that members may handle books directly, so far as they care to do so, without the intervention of an attendant. The space assigned should, of course, be convenient to both Houses of Congress. Details as to the amount of space and facilities requisite I defer until these shall be specifically requested. A duplicate of this communication has been forwarded to the Speaker of the House of Representatives. Respectfully submitted. Herbert Putnam, Librarian of Congress. The President Pro Tempore op the Senate. [House proceedings of Jan. 8. 1900: Congressional Record, 56-1, p. 686.] ROOMS FORMERLY OCCUPIED BY LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. Mr. Dalzell. Mr. Speaker, I offer the following privileged report. The Speaker. The gentleman from Pennsylvania presents another privileged report from the Committee on Rules. The Old Building. 379 The Clerk read as follows: Joint resolution (S. R. 28) relating to the use of the rooms lately occupied by the Congressional Library in the Capitol. Resolved by the Senate and House of Representat i ves of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That that portion of the rooms and space recently occupied by the Library of Congress in the Capitol building north of a line drawn east and west through the center of the Rotunda shall be used for such purpose as may hereafter be designated by the Senate of the United States, and that portion of such rooms and space south of said line shall be used for such purpose as may hereafter be desig- nated by the House of Representatives. The Committee on Rules, to whom was referred S. R. 28, “relating to the use of the rooms lately occupied by the Congressional Library in the Capitol,’’ have considered the same and report it with the recommendation that it be amended as follows: Strike out all after the resolving clause and insert the following: “ That the rooms and space recently occupied by the Library of Congress in the Capitol building shall be occupied and used hereafter for the purpose of a reference library for the use of the Senate and House of Representatives.” And that as amended the resolution do pass. Mr. Dalzell. Mr. Speaker, in connection with that report I desire to have read a letter addressed to the Speaker of the House. The Clerk read as follows: [Letter of Herbert Putnam.] Mr. Dalzell. Mr. Speaker, I should like to have order. This is a matter in which the House is interested. The Speaker. The Chair must ask the House to be in order. This is a matter affecting each one of the members. Mr. Dalzell. Mr. Speaker, as is well known, the space formerly occupied by the Congressional Library is not now used for any purpose. The Senate have sent over to the House a joint resolution which proposes that this space shall be divided into two equal parts, one part to be assigned to the Senate and the other to the House, and to be disposed of as the respective Houses may see fit. There has been a great deal of difference of opinion as to what was the most advis- able method of disposing of this space, and the Committee on Rules have therefore reported a resolution devoting it to the purposes of a reference library; not so much perhaps with a view to committing the House to that idea, as for the purpose of getting the whole matter into conference, where it may be finally determined in accordance with the views of a majority of both Houses. If the matter should be disposed of in accordance with the report, the question then would go to a committee of conference of the two Houses, who, under the rules of the House and Senate and 0 the terms of the report, would have jurisdiction of the whole matter, to dispose of it as they might see fit. Mr. Hopkins. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask the gentleman a question. The Speaker. Does the gentleman yield to the gentleman from Illinois? Mr. Dalzell. Certainly. Mr. Hopkins. I would like to know if the Architect of the Capitol has made any estimate of the cost of carrying out the purpose as expressed in the resolution of the Senate. Mr. Dalzell. In reply, I would say that the Architect of the Capitol has made a plan and an estimate of the cost, as I understand, of carrying out the plan of the Senate, and if the space were divided into committee rooms it would cost $125,000. Mr. Faris. Mr. Speaker, we can not hear. I desire to call attention to the fact that we are unable to hear what is being said down there in front. The Speaker. The Chair must again request the House to be in order, so that gen- tlemen may hear the discussion. Mr. Dalzell. In reply to the gentleman I will state an inquiry was made as to whether or not any estimate was made by the Architect of the cost of carrying out the Senate proposition. As 1 understand, the Architect has made a plan and has furnished an approximate estimate, and the cost, as he fixes it, would be $125,000. 380 Documentary History of the Capitol. This is a matter, Mr. Speaker, in which the House is quite as much interested as the Senate, if not more interested, and it seems to me that it would not be inadvisable that we should have some expression of opinion. Mr. Hopkins. As I understand the gentleman from Pennsylvania the House reso- lution provides that the space formerly occupied by the Congressional Library shall continue in the form that it is now, and then have a few books placed there for a reference library for the benefit of both the Senate and House. Mr. Dalzell. Yes; I would say to the gentleman that the House resolution simply provides for a reference library. It must be borne in mind, however, that over 800,000 books have been taken out of that old Congressional Library, and a reference library would not probably contain more than 2,000 to 2,500 books. Mr. Hopkins. The purpose of the resolution is to devote the entire space formerly occupied by this public library to the proposed reference library now? Mr. Dalzell. The purpose of the resolution is rather to send the matter to confer- ence in such a shape that the conference committee will have jurisdiction of the whole subject, so as to report not simply in accordance with the Senate resolution nor yet in accordance with the House resolution, but upon some plan that will dispose of the sjiace in the spirit of both resolutions. Mr. Paris. We could not hear back hear, and I will ask the gentleman what com- mittee reports this resolution? Mr. Dalzell. The Committee on Rules. Mr. Cummings. I should like to ask the gentleman from Pennsylvania a question. The Speaker. Does the gentleman from Pennsylvania yield to the gentleman from New York? Mr. Dalzell. Certainly. Mr. Cummings. I would like to ask the gentleman from Pennsylvania if it is pro- posed to connect the reference library and the Congressional Library by means of a pneumatic tube, so that, by visiting the old library, within four or five minutes we could have any book that we felt disposed to order as we did when the Congressional Library was in the old place? Mr. Dalzell. I do not know whether that is contemplated; I have not gone into the detail of the Architect’s plan; but will say to the gentleman from New York that we have that now. We have an office in Statuary Hall and a pneumatic tube con- nection, .so that you can now have any book you send for. Mr. Cummings. The reason I ask this is because we have a library upstairs and another library in here, and if we are to have another reference library, in the old Congressional Library and the Government Library in the new building, it would seem to me we would have a very scattered library. I could understand it if these rooms are required for the use of members of Congress. Frequently a man here needs books of reference very quickly; and if these apartments were set aside for such purpose, it would be possible for a member while debate was running in the House to secure his reference in time to participate in debate. As it is now it seems to me it would be impossible. I remember at one time here, in a discussion con- cerning the sinking of the Tallapoosa, it was necessary that I should have the files of the New York papers to sustain a statement I had made. Those files were taken from the Congressional Library and placed upon my desk in the House within six minutes from the time they were ordered. Now, if the library of reference should be as useful as the old Congressional Library was, I should be heartily in favor of it; if not, not. Mr. Babcock. I should like to ask the gentleman from Pennsylvania if it is pro- posed by this resolution to devote all this space to a reference library? Mr. Cooper of Wisconsin. For a library of 2,000 volumes? Mr. Dalzell. I would repeat what I said before. The purpose of this resolution is hardly to advocate any particular plan, but to put the House in such a situation that The Old Building. 381 the whole subject may go before a committee of conference, so that the committee may have jurisdiction of the whole subject and make a report upon what may ulti- mately be satisfactory to both bodies. Mr. Babcock. I understand that this entire reference library is already selected and ready to be sent to the Capitol, and it will not occupy more room than the smallest committee room would accommodate. If that be true, it would not want 25 per cent of the space for this purpose, and we do want it for more committee rooms. Mr. Moody of Massachusetts. I would like to know if there is any suggestion of making a reading room in connection with this reference library? Mr. Gaines. Mr. Speaker, we can not hear. The Speaker. The House must be in order. Mr. Dalzell. I now yield to the gentleman from Minnesota. Mr. McCi.eary. As I understand the purpose of the resolution, Mr. Speaker, the outcome of it may be this, that we shall have a part of that space set aside for a ref- erence library and the rest devoted to committee rooms. Am I correct? Mr. Dalzell. That is right. I now yield to the gentleman from Kansas for a question. Mr. Ridgely. I have been informed, whether correctly or not, that there are some general changes of the building in contemplation by reason of the removal of the Library from this building and other facts, and I would ask if the committee in rec- ommending this matter be referred to the conference committee have that in view? Mr. Dalzell. That would be the result if the House adopts the resolution. Mr. Ridgely. Has the committee consulted with the Architect and other authori- ties, and have they considered this whole matter in connection with the entire changes of the building? Mr. Maddox. Mr. Speaker, I rise to a point of order. We want to hear what is going on. The Speaker. The Chair will say to the gentleman from Georgia that the House is in better order than usual. [Laughter.] And yet it is exceedingly essential that all members should hear this discussion about the disposition of the old library room, as it touches the interest of every member; and the Chair trusts that gentlemen will observe order, so that all may hear what is being said. Mr. Dalzell. In answer to the gentleman from Kansas, I will say that I know of no contemplated changes in the structure of the building outside of what is proposed as to the library space. As far as that is concerned, we have seen the Architect’s plans and know his estimates. Mr. Bartholdt rose. The Speaker. Does the gentleman from Pennsylvania yield to the gentleman from Missouri? Mr. Dalzell. I do: Mr. Bartholdt. Mr. Speaker, my friend from Pennsylvania says that no changes are contemplated in the structure of the building. How does he account for the enormous amount of money asked for in this resolution? I understand the resolution calls for an expenditure of $130,000. Mr. Dalzell. The gentleman is mistaken; the resolution does not call for anything. Mr. Bartholdt. The gentleman from Pennsylvania in his statement explaining his resolution said that that expenditure would be necessary. As a member of t he Com- mittee on Public Buildings and Grounds, I have looked into this matter, and have found from investigation and from conversation with the Architect and his assistants that if this space should be devoted to library purposes alone no expenditure of money would be necessary at all. Mr. Dalzell. That is right. Mr. Bartholdt. On the other hand, the question arises whether it would not lie more profitable and economical for the House to acquire property outside, the same 382 Documentary History of the Capitol. as the Senate has done. I believe that we can acquire property outside the Capitol, in the immediate neighborhood, much more cheaply than to go to work and spend |160,000 for fitting up committee rooms. I believe this space ought to be devoted exclusively to library purposes, and perhaps for the purposes of the folding room or the House document room, which now have very unsatisfactory quarters. I will say that at least twenty committees of this House have quarters to-day that are not fit to be occupied as committee rooms. If it is necessary to acquire more committee rooms, I say that t he House ought to do what the Senate has already done and acquire prop- erty outside the Capitol. Mr. Shafroth rose. The Speaker. Does the gentleman from Pennsylvania yield to the gentleman from Colorado? Mr. Dalzell. I do. Mr. Shafroth. Mr. Speaker, I desire to ask the gentleman from Pennsylvania whether under this resolution the request of the Supreme Court to permit the Supreme Court library to be located in that room can be considered? Mr. Dalzell. I understand that if the House adopts this resolution, the result will be to throw the whole matter into conference in such a shape that the conference committee may report on any scheme. Mr. Shafroth. The gentleman thinks that the request of the Supreme Court can be considered under this resolution? Mr. Dalzell. I think so. Mr. Shafroth. I wish to say that I for one think the Supreme Court library should be located in that room. I think the court is entitled to good space in the Capitol building, at least until a new court building is erected; and inasmuch as the Supreme Court library is consulted by Members and Senators very often, its convenience to the two Houses is greatly to be desired. We make great use of that library in con- tested-election cases and in other controversies which frequently arise in the House as to legal points. In addition to that, it seems to me we ought to take into con- sideration the convenience of the Supreme Court itself. That body is a coordinate branch of the Government and is entitled to large space in this building, and I for one believe that, together with a reference library for Congress, is the disposition which should be made of this library room. I understand there is space enough for both the reference library and the library for the Supreme Court. Mr. Moody of Massachusetts rose. The Speaker. Does the gentleman from Pennsylvania yield to the gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Moody]? Mr. Dalzell. I do. Mr. Moody of Massachusetts. I hope that the committee of conference will do nothing which will devote the space now under consideration to committee rooms alone. I think the gentleman from Missouri [Mr. Bartholdt] is entirely correct when he says, as he does in effect, that if there is to be any relief for the growing demand for committee rooms, that relief must be found outside of this building. The two or three or four or five rooms that we can get in the space recently occupied by the Congressional Library will only meet the requirements of the day and will not meet even those fully — far less those of the future. I believe with the gentleman from Colorado [Mr. Shafroth] that the law library should be placed in that part of this building. I do not understand that it is the library of the Supreme Court alone, although its most important use is by that court. I understand that this branch of the Congressional Library is used constantly by almost every member of this House; w'hether he is a member of the bar or not. It ought to be somewhere else than in the dog kennel to -which we have relegated it for these many years. I believe that we ought not to be content with a reference library of two thousand The Old Building. 383 or twenty-five hundred volumes. That is a very small library — covers very little ground. If we get that reference library started, we shall find that it will become not a mere reference library, but a working library, with rooms which can be utilized as reading and writing rooms; and in this way that space will be of great benefit to this House and to the Senate and to the country. I hope that not an inch of this space will be given to private purposes, but that the whole of it will be held for the benefit of the whole House in such a way as appears best for the interests of the country. Mr. Richardson rose. Mr. Dalzell. I yield to the gentleman from Tennessee [Mr. Richardson] twenty minutes, and reserve the balance of my time. Mr. Richardson. Mr. Speaker, I only want a moment or two in which to state what I understand to be the status of this question. To gentlemen who have not investigated the matter I will say that the Senate has passed a joint resolution which divides equally between the Senate and the House the space recently occupied by the old library. The Committee on Rules has reported a substitute for that resolution, providing that this space — all of it — shall be used for a reference library. As stated by the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Dalzell], it may be that we shall not pass the resolution as we have reported it. The understanding is that in all probability the matter will go to conference, and then after an expression of gentlemen on both sides of this Chamber and after hearing from gentlemen who occupy seats in the other legislative body, Congress will be ready to adopt some plan which will best utilize that old space. Some gentlemen advocate putting the reference library there with comparatively a small number of books, in order that members may go there and have ready ref- erence to such matters as we need to refer to while measures are pending here and in the other branch. Some gentlemen have favored — and I understand the Supreme Court is very anxious that this proposition shall be carried out — a transfer of the law library to that space. Some gentleman has referred to the fact that, our books are very much scattered — that is to say, we have that immense library of over 800,000 volumes across the way, the Congressional Library. We have also the House library up there, with a small portion of these books downstairs. The Senate has also its separate library just as we have. And then there is the law library downstairs. So that we have, in fact, three or four separate libraries in this building. Now, Mr. Speaker, if we make another reference library it seems to me it will not be long before we shall have half of the Congressional Library back in this building. There will be a greater and greater demand for books, because when you begin to make references one reference calls for another — a reference in one book requires you to follow that reference up in another book — so that in a short time, as I have just said, we shall have half of the Congressional Library back in this building. Now, that space has been arranged expressly for library purposes, and it seems to me best that we shall keep it for such purposes. But the object in passing this reso- lution will be to bring the matter hereafter before us, so that upon the report of the conference committee the question will be presented in such a condition that Con- gress may make the best disposition of this space. Some gentlemen think this space should be devoted to a restaurant. Mr. Moody of Massachusetts. I should like to ask the gentleman a question. Mr. Richardson. I will hear the gentleman. Mr. Moody of Massachusetts. The gentleman from Tennessee points out the fact that in the utilization of this space for library purposes we shall move back as we want them a large number of books from the Congressional Library to this building. Well, sir, what is the harm? If we need the books, why not have them here? Mr. Richardson. We have already gone to an enormous expense in making a tun- 384 Documentary History of the Capitol. nel from this building to the main library, and in four or five minutes we can get from there any book we wish. Mr. Moody of Massachusetts. Oh, it takes a great deal longer than that — some- times nearly half an hour. Mr. Richardson. I have made the experiment, and am able to say that in seven minutes I have had books brought to me from the Congressional Library. Thus we now have access to that entire library, and it seems to me that this is better than undertaking to have another library started in the space where the old Congressional Library was. Mr. McClellan. I would like to ask the gentleman from Tennessee if there is not, in his opinion, space enough in the room already provided upstairs for the reference library of the House? Mr. Richardson. I think there is. It is already shelved and ready for the purpose, and we have quite a large number of books up there now. Mr. Gaines. I would like to ask my colleague from Tennessee a question. The gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Dalzell] speaks of some architect making an esti- mate. Now, what architect has made such an estimate? Mr. Richardson. The Architect of the Capitol. Mr. Gaines. An employee of the Government at this time? Mr. Richardson. Yes, sir; not an outsider, but one employed by the Government. Mr. Gaines. Gentlemen have spoken also of building an establishment for the use of the Supreme Court of the United States. I would like to ask my colleague what plans, if any, have been devised for that purpose? Mr. Richardson. A number of bills have been introduced and are pending for the purpose of condemning property and erecting a building for the use of the Supreme Court. Mr. Gaines. And they would also want a library? Mr. Richardson. Undoubtedly; if these plans should be adopted, the court would want a library in that building. Mr. Gaines. Then if we move the reference library of the court to the new loca- tion, and subsequently erect a building for the Supreme Court, we wohld have to make another move in the future? Mr. Richardson. I think so. Mr. Lloyd. I would like to ask the gentleman with reference to the pending reso- lution: If this matter is submitted on the conference report of the two Houses, is it not a fact that we would be required, under the rule, either to accept or reject that proposition as an entirety? In other words it could not be amended. Mr. Richardson. Certainly; but of course they could vote the whole proposition down. So far as I am concerned, Mr. Speaker, if I should be on such a committee I should be willing to place the matter in such shape as to have the fullest expression of senti- ment on the part of the House in dealing with the final issue. It is a matter of great importance and of vast interest to all the members, and ought to have full consideration. Mr. Lloyd. Is it not true, also, that this special library plan — or reference library plan — if adopted would require additional employees of the Government to take con- trol of it? Mr. Richardson. Unmistakably; that would be the result. Now, a word about the space to which reference is made in the resolution. If used for committee rooms, it would give 14 working rooms to the House and 14 to the Senate, making 28 in all. I believe it is a matter of fact that a number of the com- mittees of the House are now meeting two, and possibly three, in the same room. This, I believe, we might obviate by taking the 14 new rooms which this old library space will enable us to acquire. But these are all matters for the House and indi- The Old Building. 885 vidual members to consider and submit such ideas as they may entertain in regard to the best way to deal with the question. I yield to the gentleman from Nevada [Mr. Newlands], who wants four or five minutes. Mr. Newlands. Mr. Speaker, I quite agree in the view submitted here that this resolution should go to the conference committee for the purpose of having a proper plan prepared and digested for the utilization of the space in question. 1 do not think, for my part, that we should devote that space to committee rooms. I think there are more important objects to be gained. The expenditure of $150,000 or $175,000 required to make the changes would go far toward securing a space or at least to prepare a building for the committee purposes for the House — a space suffi- cient for the use of the House and for the Senate. I am in hopes that the conference committee on this resolution, when appointed, will consider carefully the various suggestions made by the members of the House and the Senate. 1 believe that this space should be devoted to the general use of the House and the Senate; that it should be used for a reference library, for reading rooms, and for assembly rooms, where members of the House and the Senate can meet and talk together over matters of public interest of both Houses. We know that during the last year a plan was suggested for dividing this space into three large rooms for the use of the House of Representatives, and the room on each side was to be devoted to the uses of the two parties. I was in favor of that proposition at the time, and I think it was the sentiment of the House, largely because it gives a concentrated space for debate that would not be devoted, as it now is, to conversation, but to debate, and at the same time give ample space to the two parties in the assembly rooms on each side to engage in conversation and to talk of matters of mutual interest. Now we have to adjourn for this purpose to the stuffy cloakrooms of the House in order to avoid disturbing the House when engaged in deliberation. It seems to me that this space should be devoted exclusively to the uses of the House and Senate for the purpose indicated; that it should be used jointly by the two Houses, and very little change in the architectural conditions would be required, and that it should be thus devoted not simply for a reference library alone, but for reading rooms, writing rooms, and conversation rooms, and for the general purposes that the members of the House and the Senate may find desirable. Mr. Shafkoth. Mr. Speaker, I would like to offer an amendment. The Speaker. The Chair will state that the gentleman from Tennessee controls an hour and the gentleman from Pennsylvania an hour, as the Chair finds that the pre- vious question was not asked for. Mr. Shafkoth. Is an amendment in order at this time? The Speaker. Does the gentleman from Tennessee yield for that purpose? Mr. Richardson. I yield for any debate the gentleman desires, but I do not think that I have the right to yield for an amendment. The Speaker. Without the consent of the gentleman from Tennessee the gentleman from Colorado could not offer an amendment at the present time. Mr. Shafroth. Well, I wish to offer the amendment at the proper time; that is all. Mr. Richardson. I yield to the gentleman from Colorado to allow him to address the House. Mr. Shafroth. Mr. Speaker, the amendment which I have offered, or which I wish to offer when the proper time comes, adds to the resolution as it now is the words: And for that part of the National Library known as the Supreme Court library. Upon examining the resolution, I have grave doubts, if it goes to conference, whether the conferees would have jurisdiction to include a project to have the Supreme Court library located in that space, and on that account 1 would like to offer this amendment at the proper time. Inasmuch as the Supreme Court library H. licp. (i4b 25 380 Documentary History of the Capitol. is now located in a very dark part of the Capitol, almost a dungeon, some of the win- dows being under the portico, which extends far out, and it being difficult to get light there by which to read, it seems to me that we ought to give them adequate space; that we ought to give them this room for their library, and retain a portion for a small reference library for Congress. I do not believe that the space would make enough committee rooms to do much good, at least not that part of it which would be devoted to the House. Mr. Richardson. I will say to the gentleman that it will give fourteen large com- mittee rooms, I think. Mr. Shafboth. On both sides? Mr. Richardson. Fourteen rooms on each side. Mr. Bartholdt. Yes, but it will cost $140,000 to have the architectural changes made. Mr. Shafroth. Yes, that is true; and, as I understand it, the change for the Supreme Court library would only cost the amount necessary to move the books and minor improvements. Mr. Bartholdt. That is all. Mr. Shafroth. That would be very small, indeed; whereas dividing it into four- teen rooms would cost, as the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Dalzell] has indi- cated, something like $140,000. Mr. Dalzell. One hundred and twenty-five thousand dollars. Mr. Shafroth. It seems to me we ought to give the space to the Supreme Court library, or at least the larger part of it, because that library is constantly used as a reference library by Senators and Members of Congress. Mr. Richardson. What will you do then with the space now occupied by the Supreme Court library? There would be an expense connected with the fitting up of that. Mr. Shafroth. That space is not large. It might be devoted to committee rooms, but it would not make more than three or four committee rooms, and the expense of cutting it into such committee rooms would not exceed probably $5,000. We are continually consulting that library, and it seems to me that to devote that space to the Supreme Court library and a reference library would be a wise disposition of the same. Mr. Dalzell. Mr. Speaker, I should like to ask my friend from Tennessee [Mr. Richardson] to let me use a little time now. I desire to yield to the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Cannon]. The Speaker. One moment. The Chair desires to know from the gentleman from Tennessee whether he has given his consent that the amendment sent up by the gentleman from Colorado [Mr. Shafroth] may be considered as pending? Mr. Richardson. No; I was not asked to do so. As I understand it, the gentleman desires to offer his amendment simply to give the conferees, if the matter should go to conference, jurisdiction over the subject. Mr. Shafroth. That is all. My amendment does not require the conferees to make that disposition of the space. Mr. Richardson. I feel quite sure that the conferees would have jurisdiction of the whole question as to the disposition of that space if it should go to conference, and therefore the amendment would not be necessary. Mr. Shafroth. I have looked at the proposition and I do not think so. For that reason I should like to give them jurisdiction. Mr. Richardson. It relates to the disposition of the space. Mr. Shafroth. Yes; but it confines them, as I understand it, to a reference library. Mr. Richardson. No; I think not. The Speaker. The Chair understands that consent to have the amendment pend- ing has not been given by the gentleman from Tennessee [Mr. Richardson]. The Old Building. 387 Mr. Richardson. No; I have not seen the amendment. The Speaker. The gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Dalzell]. Mr. Dalzell. I desire to yield a few moments to the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Cannon]. Mr. Cannon. Mr. Speaker, I have not had the pleasure of hearing what has been said by gentlemen touching this matter. 1 understand, however, that there is under consideration a proposition touching the disposal of the space formerly occupied by the Library of Congress, and that this is a proposition to send the Senate joint reso- lution to conference. I think it ought to go into conference with plenary power on the part of the House conferees to act with the Senate conferees touching the final disposition of this space; and I believe that is all I want to say about it — that this -space ought to be utilized for a reference library for the use of the House and the Senate. Mr. Tawney. And the law library. Mr. Cannon. And the gentleman from Minnesota says “ the law library.” I have no objection even to include that provided the law library is a part of the reference library and second thereto. I can only speak of my own experience touching the want of a reference library in this building. When the Library of Congress occu- pied these rooms they were convenient to all of us, and the Librarian in charge and his assistants were in a position, on a minute’s notice, to give information to Mem- bers and Senators. It may be said that we have gotten a tunnel from here to the Library building, across some little distance from the Capitol. That is true. But it is a tunnel that I have never been able to use successfully. I am not able to go through it myself; and I had just as well be frank about it, and call myself some- thing near an average member. I know what 1 want when I want something. Now, I might sit down and make my memorandum and send it speeding through the tunnel to some gentleman clerk at the other end of the tunnel that I have never seen. He finds something that he suspects will answer my query, and back it comes through the tunnel. It is not what I want at all. I want somebody that I can go to in charge of a reference library. If I want one item of information, he knows exactly where to find it, even when I do not know where to find it, and that book, containing that information, will be returned in a few minutes dog-eared for my use. Somebody will say. “You ought to know where to find the information.” I am speaking as an average of the membership of the House touching these matters. Mr. Bingham. The gentleman is flattering himself. [Laughter.] Mr. Cannon. I must claim that much, I think, as a right. [Renewed laughter.] Now, these rooms, I understand, are thoroughly furnished. I suppose it would cost §100,000 or $200,000 to take these rooms and take the library furniture out of them; and if the rooms are used for anything else than a library this furniture must be taken out and thrown away. If you were to convert them into committee rooms I have no doubt that the necessity for a reference library within ready call of the House and Senate would be so speedily recognized that within a year or two, or a very short time in the future, both branches would go back to the use of that space for a reference library. Now, that is about all I want to say, and I say it for the purpose of indicating my own views and not with a view of fettering by direct resolution or action of the House the discretion of the House conferees. I suppose from what little I have heared that this was in the nature of an experience meeting at which each brother might state what was his view touching this matter. You may have a whole world of information in the mind of somebody that can give it in a short space of time, and it does not benefit this body or the other or any individual who may want it, unless you get what you want at the proper time. Mr. Shafroth. Mr. Speaker, the gentleman from Tennessee has consented to the amendment which 1 have offered. Mr. Richardson. I would like to hear it reported. 1 think it only broadens the scope of tlfe resolution. 388 _ Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Bartholdt. I ask for the reading of the original resolution. Mr. Richardson. I would like to hear it read. The Clerk read as follows: Amend the committee amendment so that it will read as follows: “ That the rooms and space recently occupied by the Library of Congress in the Capitol building shall be occupied and used hereafter for the purpose of a reference library for the use of the Senate and House of Representatives, and for that part of the national library known as the Supreme Court library.” Mr. Richardson. That is all right. The Speaker. The question is on the amendment of the gentleman from Colorado to the amendment recommended by the committee. Mr. Dalzell. I yield to the gentleman from Ohio for a few moments. Mr. Burton. Mr. Speaker, I hope this resolution will be adopted, and trust that the adjustment reached by the committee of conference will be such that the whole space formerly occupied by the Congressional Library will still be reserved for library purposes. It is very evident to those who have any experience in the mat- ter that the books in this building and in the Library are not as valuable to mem- bers as they should be. In order to make good use of a library it is not only necessary that there should be books, but that they should be promptly available. Now, what I should like to see would be an arrangement whereby the whole of this space formerly occupied by the Congressional Library would be occupied by the Senate library, which is large and valuable; by the library of the House' of Repre- sentatives, the Supreme Court library, and a general reference library. Each would have to have its own separate librarian. I am informed that the Librarian has already selected 8,000 or 10,000 volumes for a reference library. There is no prob- ability that any considerable share of the Congressional Library would be brought over here. Most of the books there are not such as would be required in a refer- ence or working library. I think it perfectly safe to say that 10,000 to 12,000 vol- umes from the Congressional Library — many of them duplicates — would be ample to afford members an opportunity to give prompt consideration to the subjects aris- ing here. It is not sufficient to have books to be reached at the end of a tunnel in five, ten, or fifteen minutes. It is very desirable to have a reference library in this building and a librarian who is posted as to the subjects we are called upon to consider. Mr. Richardson. I would like to ask the gentleman from Ohio a question. You think, then, that 12,000 books would lie as many as needed? Mr. Burton. I think that number would be enough for a reference library. Mr. Richardson. The gentleman must remember that there is space there for 700,000 books. The old Congressional Library numbered about 700,000 volumes. Now there is space enough there for that number, because they were there before they were moved. If you only put in ten or twelve thousand books, you would have a great deal of space that was not utilized. Mr. Burton. But the Senate library is a large library, and the Supreme Court library is also a large one. Mr. Richardson. The gentleman means that those books would be in addition to the ten or twelve thousand? Mr. Burton. Yes; the books belonging to the Congressional Library, the gentle- man from Tennessee will remember, were many of them piled up in their former quarters like so much old lumber, so the number of volumes there was not a fair test of the capacity of the room for library purposes. Mr. Richardson. That is true. Mr. Parker of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask the gentleman from Ohio whether in the number of ten or twelve thousand he includes the Executive documents, which are quite necessary for reference? The Old Building. 389 Mr. Burton. That would be an additional number. Mr. Parker of New Jersey. Would it not be well also to have the House library, which now occupies so much space, moved down there, so as to afford additional room on the next floor? Mr. Burton. Yes; for committee rooms upstairs. I think that could be done and retain where it now is the small library adjacent to this room. Mr. Dalzell. Mr. Speaker, I now yield to the gentleman from New York [Mr. Cummings]. Mr. Cummings. Mr. Speaker, I have already alluded to the fact that when the old library was in this building I got three copies of different New York newspapers within six minutes, giving a detailed account of the sinking of the Tallapoosa. Twenty-five minutes ago the gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Moody] wrote ask- ing for a copy of the second volume of Henry Adams’s History of the United States. I would like to hear a report from the gentleman from Massachusetts as to his success in obtaining it. Mr. Moody of Massachusetts. I just heard a moment ago that the book was out. That was the first recognition of my request. Mr. Richardson. Mr. Speaker, I desire to yield five minutes to the gentleman from Kentucky [Mr. Smith]. Mr. Smith of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, there seems to be various ideas as to utilizing this space. One view is that it should lie used for committee rooms. I do not con- cur in that view, because I think it is pretty evident that after we have utilized the portion of that space allotted to the House for committee rooms we shall inevitably have to provide additional committee rooms somewhere else. It is estimated that it will cost $125,000 to prepare this space for committee rooms. If we must incur such an enormous expense, we had better go at once and purchase a building, as has been done by the Senate. Now, it is proposed also to use it as a reference library; and, by the way, I wish to suggest to those who do not concur that that is the proper use to make of it that if the Senate concurs in the amendment proposed by the House, that ends the question, and it will be used for the purpose of a reference library. But I am not in favor of devoting it to a library. I believe that it facilitates mat- ters to have the library practically all in one place, reasonably accessible to this body. I believe in the main that when members desire the use of any volume they can secure it more readily by the use of the pneumatic tube arrangement that we have than they could if v/e should locate a reference library in this space formerly occupied by the Congressional Library. Now, there is a use to which this space can be very well put. I happened to be in the last Congress upon the committee whose attention was called as to the rearrange- ment of the space now used as the hall and cloak rooms. There was a pressing demand for some space in which each side of the Chamber might hold conferences, and it seems to me that this space might be very well used for that purpose. That side of the House finds itself constantly in need of some place where they may meet in party conference, and this side finds the same condition. Now, it seems to me that the wise thing to be done with this space is to set it apart, or so much of it as may be necessary, for this particular purpose. I am not in favor of using it for a law library, for I believe that within five years we shall have a new judiciary building, and it would be unnecessary work to move the law library into this space and within five years move it into a new building. I think, Mr. Speaker, we ought to use this space for the purpose, first, of providing consultation rooms for committees of conference of the two Houses. The Speaker. The question is on agreeing to the amendment of the gentleman from Colorado [Mr. Shafrotii] to the substitute recommended by the committee. Mr. Williams of Mississippi. Without objection, I would like to hear the amend- ment read. 390 Documentary History of the Capitol. The Clerk read as follows: Amend the substitute reported by the committee so as to read as follows: “That the rooms and space recently occupied by the Library of Congress in the Capitol building shall be occupied and used hereafter for the purpose of a reference library, for the use of the Senate and House of Representatives, and for that part of the National Library known as the Supreme Court library.” The question being taken, the amendment was agreed to. The substitute of the committee as amended was agreed to, and the resolution of the Senate as amended was adopted. On motion of Mr. Dalzell, a motion to reconsider the last vote was laid on the table. [“enatc proceedings of Mar. 20, 1900: Congressional Record, 56-1, p. 3073.] VACANT SPACES IN THE CAPITOL. The President pro tempore laid before the Senate the amendment of the House of Representatives to the joint resolution (S. R. 28) relating to the use of the rooms lately occupied by the Congressional Library in the Capitol. The amendment of the House of Representatives was to strike out all after the resolving clause and insert: That the rooms and space recently occupied by the Library of Congress in the Capitol building shall be occupied and used hereafter for the purpose of a reference library for the use of the Senate and House of Representatives and for that part of the National Library known as the Supreme Court Library. Mr. Spooner. I move that the Senate nonconcur in the amendment of the House of Representatives and request a conference with the House on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses. The motion was agreed to. By unanimous consent, the President pro tempore was authorized to appoint the conferees on the part of the Senate; and Mr. Spooner, Mr. Elkins, and Mr. Cock- rell were appointed. [House proceedings of Mar. 20, 19 0: Congressional Record, 58-1, p. 3107.] USE OF OLD LIBRARY ROOMS. The Speaker. The Chair also lays before the House Senate resolution 28, to which the House has offered certain amendments, in which the Senate has nonconcurred and asked for a conference. Air. Dalzell. I move to insist on the action of the House and agree to the confer- ence asked for. Mr. Richardson. We should like to have the title of the resolution read; we do not know what it is. The Speaker. The motion of the gentleman is that the House insist upon the House amendments and agree to the conference asked by the Senate. The Clerk will report the title of the resolution. The Clerk read as follows: Joint, resolution (S. R. 28) relating to the use of the rooms lately occupied by the Congressional Library in the Capitol. The motion- of Air. Dalzell tvas agreed to. Accordingly the House nonconcurred in the amendments of the Senate and agreed to the conference; and the Speaker announced as conferees on the part of the House Mr. Dalzell, Mr. Grosvenor, and Mr. Richardson. Air. Bell. Air. Speaker, I noticed that the Speaker appointed the gentleman from The Old Building. 391 Georgia [Mr. Livingston] one of the conferees on the legislative bill. He is in Georgia and, as I understand, will be for some time. The Speaker. The Chair appointed, as is the custom, the conferees suggested by the gentleman in charge of the bill. [Senate proceedings of June 5, 1900: Congressional Record, 66-1, p. 6686.] VACANT SPACE IN THE CAPITOL. Mr. Aldrich submitted the following report: The committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses on the amendment of the House to the joint resolution (S. R. 28) relating to the use of the rooms lately occupied by the Congressional Library in the Capitol, having met, after full and free conference have agreed to recommend and do recommend to their respective Houses as follows: That the Senate recede from its disagreement to the amendment of the House, and agree to the same with an amendment as follows: Strike out all of the matter inserted by said House amendment and insert in lieu thereof the following: “That the rooms and space recently occupied by the Library of Congress in the Capitol building shall be divided into three stories of which shall be fitted up and used for a reference library for the Senate and House of Representatives, and that portion of the other two stories north of a line drawn east and west through the cen- ter of the Rotunda shall be used for such purpose as may be designated by the Sen- ate of the United States, and that portion of the first and second stories south of said line shall be used for such purpose as may be designated by the House of Representatives. And such sum as is necessary to make the construction herein pro- vided for is hereby appropriated out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, the sum to be expended under the direction of the Architect of the Capitol. ’ ’ And the House agree to the same. Nelson W. Aldrich, S. B. Elkins, F. M. Cockrell, Managers on the jiart of the Senate. John Dalzell, C. H. Grosvenor, James D. Richardson, Managers on the part of the House. The report was agreed to. Mr. Aldrich. To carry out the report, I offer the resolution I send to the desk, and ask for its immediate consideration. The resolution was considered by unanimous consent, and agreed to, as follows: Resolved , That the portion of the space recently occupied by the Congressional Library in the Capi- tol building which was set apart by Senate joint resolution No. 28 to be used as designated by the Senate, shall be used for committee rooms, constructed in accordance with plans prepared by the Architect of the Capitol and approved by the Committee on Rules. [House proceedings of June 5, 1900: Congressional Record, 56-1, p, 6765.] OLD CONGRESSIONAL LIBRARY ROOMS. Mr. Dalzell. Mr. Speaker, I submit a conference report. The Speaker. The report will be read. The Clerk read as follows: The committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses on the amendment of the House to the joint resolution (S. R. 28) relating to the use of the 392 Documentary History of the Capitol. rooms lately occupied by the Congressional Library in the Capitol having met, after full and free conference have agreed to recommend and do recommend to their respective Houses as follows: That the Senate recede from its disagreement to the amendment of the House, and agree to the same with an amendment as follows: Strike out all of the matter inserted by said House amendment and insert in lieu thereof the following: “That the rooms and space recently occupied by the Library of Congress in the Capitol building shall be divided into three stories, the third story of which shall be fitted up and used for a reference library for the Senate and House of Represent- atives, and that portion of the other two stories north of a line drawn east and west through the center of the Rotunda shall be used for such purpose as may be desig- nated by the Senate of the United States, and that portion of the first and second stories south of said line shall be used for such purpose as may be designated by the House of Representatives. “And such sum as is necessary to make the construction herein provided for is hereby appropriated out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, the sum to be expended under the direction of the Architect of the Capitol.” And the House agree to the same. John Dalzell, C. H. Gkosvenor, James D. Richardson, Managers on the part of the House. Nelson W. Aldrich," S. B. Elkins, F. M. Cockrell, Managers on the part of the Senate. The statement of the House conferees was read, as follows: The effect of the agreement of the conferees will be — • ( 1 ) That the third story of the room recently occupied by the Library will be fitted up and used as a reference library for both Houses of Congress. (2) That the first and second stories will be fitted up as committee rooms; all the rooms north of a line drawn east and west through the center of the Rotunda to be for the use of the Senate, and those south of said line for the use of the House. John Dalzell, C. H. Grosvenor, James D. Richardson, Managers on the part of the House. Mr. Dalzell. I move the adoption of the report. Mr. Shafroth. I wish to make an inquiry of the gentleman from Pennsylvania. I would like to know whether this report gives the Supreme Court library any part of the space. Mr. Dalzell. I will say to the gentleman from Colorado that the resolution passed by the Senate in the first instance devoted this entire space to committee rooms. The amendment of the House introduced the element of a library. The Librarian of the Congressional Library advised us that the third story will furnish ample room for a reference library for the use of the Houses of Congress and also, perhaps, some additional space. The report embodies in part the idea of the Senate resolution and in part the idea of the House amendment. Mr. Shafroth. I would like to move to nonconcur in this report and be heard upon the motion. Mr. Dalzell. I will yield to the gentleman five minutes, if he so desires. Mr. Shafroth. Very well. Mr. Speaker, the resolution, as I understand it, provides for the disposition of the The Old Building. 393 space which was occupied by the old Congressional Library so as to give additional committee rooms for the House and Senate and also additional space for the reference library of the House and Senate. I am opposed to the disposition of the space proposed by this pending proposition. We have a Supreme Court in this Capitol building, which I must say lias been treated most shamefully by the legislative bodies of this Government. It is a coordinate branch of this great Kepublic, yet I venture the assertion that there is not a State in the Union that gives to the supreme court of the State as little accommodation, or as little space, as is given by Congress to this greatest judicial tribunal on the face of the earth. I want to say that any person who will go and look at the library space of the Supreme Court law library will find a condition of affairs that should not continue. You will find shelves of books so closely packed together that it is almost impossible for a person to get between them. The books are in such a state that it is impossible to get at them. They have been piled up in places where they can not be reached at ail. They have some 80,000 volumes in the law library and have not room for half of that number. The space given by Congress to the Supreme Court is ridiculous when you consider the character of the court and the immense amount of business that it transacts. They have not a room for chambers work, but must go at the clerk’s room and hold a conference with anyone when necessary. Every State in the Union provides for the judges of its supreme court, not only general conference rooms, but also pri- vate chambers for each judge, and often an anteroom to the same. Not a single justice of the United States Supreme Court is allowed a room, not even the Chief Justice. The space allowed the Supreme Court is a court room, a robing room, a conference room in the basement, the marshal’s office — one room, the clerk’s office consisting of three rooms and tile room in the basement, and the law library room in the basement. They have the library divided among the library room and three of the rooms mentioned, none of which are consecutive or adjoin each other, and in which 25,000 volumes are stored. It is absolutely necessary that space be had somewhere. The space that was occupied by the Congressional Library is fitted for a library; it has the modern fireproof shelving and all the conveniences of a library. It takes no additional cost to let the Supreme Court library go there. The greatest reference library that we can have would be the supreme court reports of the various States and of the United States, and the law text-books. Consequently at this very place it will be most convenient for the use of the Members and Senators. I have been through the library space that is now occupied by the law library. It is down in a dingy part of the Capitol, in the basement. The light is not good. Any person who has been there and attempted to read knows that it is a crowded space at the best. Inasmuch as this Llouse passed the resolution which provided that part at least of the old Congressional Library should be devoted to the use of the Supreme Court library, we ought to adhere to it, and give to the Supreme Court library ample space for its books. It is going to cost about $140,000, as I understand, to divide this space into committee rooms and will cost nothing to use it as a library. Mr. Speaker, you are bound to provide some room for this law library. There is no sufficient room for it now, and you must in some way provide more space. If you want a hearing before a judge of the Supreme Court, you must go to the clerk’s room and have it there in the presence of the clerk. Are we going to be so selfish as to take all this space because we have the power? I submit, Mr. Speaker, that there is no State in the Union which treats its Supreme Court as we treat the Supreme Court of the United States. It is a coordinate branch of the Government and ought to be given ample and full space for this library. [Applause.] 394 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Dalzell. Mr. Speaker, there is a very universal desire upon the part of the members of the House that we should have a reference library. On the other hand, there is a universal sentiment on the part of the Senate that this entire space should be devoted to committee rooms. Now, the Librarian of Congress has said that the setting apart of this third story would give us ample space for a reference library such as the two Houses are entitled to have, and would also give us space for additional books. Therefore, if we attempted to carry out the sentiment of the House at all, we were compelled to make this com- promise, and by this agreement we arrive at that which satisfies both Houses. We get our reference library, they get their committee rooms, and we get our share of the committee rooms. I concede to the gentleman that the Supreme Court library is poorly housed, but it is in the same Capitol with us. It is accessible to members of Congress at all times, whereas, as we are situated now, it is almost impossible to get a book from the Con- gressional Library at the time that the member of Congress wants it; and members know that often when they send to the Library fora particular book it turns out that it is not the one they want, or that that book suggests some other book that they would like to have. Now, this proposition involves the placing of a librarian in the Capitol — probably Mr. Spofford, or somebody equally competent — and a thorough reference library for the use of both Houses. That is the utmost that your conferees were able to get as a concession from the Senate. If we agree to this conference report, the Architect of the Capitol will go to work, and by the time we come back again to the next ses- sion of Congress we will have our additional committee rooms and also our reference library. Mr. Shafroth. How much will that cost? Mr. Dalzell. The fixing up of the library will cost, the Architect says, in the neighborhood of six or seven thousand dollars. For the making of the committee rooms he was unable to give us an estimate as to how much that would cost, but less than a hundred thousand dollars. Mr. Shafroth. At the time this proposition was first reported was it not estimated at $140,000? Mr. Dalzell. One hundred and twenty-five thousand dollars to turn this entire space into committee rooms. Mr. Gaines. How much will the books cost? Mr. Dalzell. The books are all there now. Mr. Shafroth. I will ask the gentleman if this space in the Capitol which was occupied by the old Congressional Library would not be sufficient to accommodate the entire Supreme Court library and have a reference library also? Mr. Dalzell. I do not know. That is possibly so; and if it is so, it can go in there. Mr. Shafroth. I do not mean the space on the third floor, but the space that exists now. Mr. Dalzell. I yield five minutes to the gentleman from Tennessee. Mr. Bailey of Texas. I desire to ask the gentleman from Pennsylvania if the Senate insists that it needs further committee rooms? Mr. Dalzell. They certainly do. Mr. Bailey of Texas. I might be willing to vote for that at this particular time, but with the Maltby Building, and quite as many committee rooms at that end of the Capitol as we have on this, it looks to me they ought to be satisfied. Mr. Dalzell. I think so, too, so far as that goes. I yield five minutes to the gen- tleman from Tennessee. Mr. Newlands. I desire to ask the gentleman from Pennsylvania if this space is to be divided equally between the House and the Senate? Mr. Dalzell. It is to be equally divided between the House and the Senate. Mr. Newlands. How many committee rooms will it make? The Old Building. 395 Mr. Dalzell. My recollection is that it is fourteen or sixteen each. Mr. Newlands. I wish to ask whether inquiry was made as to whether a certain portion of this space can not be given to the Supreme Court library, as space is required by the Supreme Court library? Mr. Dalzell. The librarian was not able to say just how much of that space he would occupy by his reference library. Of course if there is anything left it can be used for the law library. I yield five minutes to the gentleman from Tennessee. Mr. Richardson. Mr. Speaker, the conferees have done the best they could in this matter to get a proper division of this space. It has been several months since the conferees were appointed, and they have given the matter a great deal of thought. The result of the conference is that this space where the old Congressional Library books were kept, where there were about seven or eight hundred thousand volumes, is divided into three stories. The entire third story will be devoted, under this conference report, to the refer- ence library. Now, it is not believed, Mr. Speaker, that that will occupy but a com- paratively small portion of this story, and the remainder of the third story can be used by the Supreme Court for the purposes of a law library, and there will be space, in all probability, for it. Now, then, the remaining two stories will be divided equally between the House and the Senate for committee rooms. There was one matter that I insisted upon above all others, and that was that in the division of this space the House should be given one large room for the minority. Now, it is very well known that gentlemen on the other side will need that space next Congress [laughter], and we are taking care of them as well as we can; but whether they need it or we need it, there ought to be one suitable room for the minority. The Senate has a room of that kind, and the House has never had any place where the minority could assemble, except in the corridors of this Capitol. A Member. What is it to be used for — for condolence? Mr. Richardson. For the transaction of all the business that the conferees have to transact — a conference room; and unless the conference report is adopted that accom- modation will not be afforded the minority. I believe, Mr. Speaker, it is the very best that can be done, and if this conference report is not adopted it will go over for one more session, possibly more than a year, and I hope very much that the House will adopt the report of the conferees. Mr. Dalzell. I yield five minutes to the gentleman from New Jersey. Mr. Parker of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, this is a very important matter. Ever since the Library has been moved across the way it has been practically useless to those who wish to deal with it. The other library that we have, the House library, is useless to-day, because it is upstairs. Nothing in the shape of a library that is upstairs is any use. Every gentleman’s experience confirms this. Now, when the old library w r as in the middle of the Capitol building, it formed not only a library that we could go to and use, but a place where the members of the Senate and House came together informally and met one another. Its one fault for our use was that it was open also to the public. It is important that there should be a central room where members of the Senate and House can go, and no one else, for a reference library, and so that they could meet there daily and know what is going on in the two Houses. Such a room brings them together. That was the great use of that library. Why divide or change the room? It is far more important than committee rooms. Members of this House know that there are many committee rooms here which are committee rooms only in name, where there are no meetings, and where the room is simply used as a private office of the chairman of the committee. What we really need is a reference library for Senate and House which is accessible, and to be acces- sible it must be upon the ground floor. We are told that this matter is to be put off if not disposed of now. We had bet- Documentary History of the Capitol. 396 ter pat it off than to take the one room in this whole Capitol which is useful for the purpose that is mentioned and dividing it up into small rooms. This Capitol is full of small rooms given up to dust and darkness and the storage of books and gas engines and we know not what. They are found in the basement and in the second story. There is one room absolutely accessible, absolutely useful, absolutely fitted for the purpose of a reference library; and 1 deplore the day that we shall take the old Library of Congress, with all of its associations, and divide it up into a number of small rooms, and take in place of it the third story, reached only by an elevator, and therefore not accessible to the members of the House as quickly as it ought to be. I forgot to say that the Librarian told me that all the space they had was not more than sufficient for such a library as he meant to furnish us. I deplore that we should give up this great adjunct of legislation by any hurried action at the end of a session. I think the conference report should be postponed to next session. Mr. Dalzell. Mr. Speaker, I ask for the previous question and adojjtion of the conference report. Mr. Shafroth. I wish the gentleman would permit me to make a statement. This was called up unexpectedly. Mr. Dalzell. I can not yield at this time. The previous question was ordered. The question was taken on agreeing to the conference report; and on a division (demanded by Mr. Parker of New Jersey) there were — ayes 115, noes 35. Mr. Shafroth. I ask for the yeas and nays. The Speaker. The yeas and nays are asked for by the gentleman from Colorado. As many as are in favor of taking the question by yeas and nays will rise and remain standing. [After counting. ] Eight gentlemen rising, not a sufficient number, and the yeas and nays are refused. The ayes have it, and the conference report is agreed to. [“No. 33. — Joint Resolution Relating to the use of the rooms lately occupied by the Congressional Library in the Capitol,’’ approved June 6, 1900. (Stat. at Large, v. 31, 719.)] Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the rooms and space recently occupied by the Library of Congress in the Capitol building shall be divided into three stories, the third story of which shall be fitted up and used for a reference library for the Senate and House of Representatives, and that portion of the other two stories north of a line drawn east and west through the center of the Rotunda shall be used for such purposes as may be designated by the Senate of the United States, and that portion of the first and second stories south of said line shall be used for such purposes as may be desig- nated by the House of Representatives. And such sum as is necessary to make the construction herein provided for is hereby appropriated out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, the same to be expended under the direction of the Architect of the Capitol. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, July 1, 1901. (57-1, House Doc. No. 1, Misc. Repts., pt. 1, pp. 511 and 526.)] Architect’s Office, United States Capitol, Washington, I). C., July 1, 1901. Sir: I beg to present herewith the annual report of this office relating to the care and repair of the United States Capitol Building for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1901. Included is a statement of expenditure made in connection with the work. NEW COMMITTEE ROOMS — OLD LIBRARY SPACE, UNITED STATES CAPITOL. At the close of the last session of Congress the following joint resolution was passed, and was approved June 6, 1900: [Preceding item.] The Old Building. 397 All of the work covered by the above resolution, with the exception of that part relating to the space set apart for use as a reference library, was completed, ready for occupation in case of emergency, one day before the meeting of Congress. It was a work of some magnitude, considering the time allotted for its completion, and could never have been accomplished but for the unfailing interest of foremen and employees, who devoted every energy to its accomplishment. The character of the resolution was extraordinary, inasmuch as the amount appro- priated was not specified, but was set forth as the “sum necessary.” The additional specification that the money should be expended under the direction of the Archi- tect of the Capitol left it to the discretion of that officer to provide everything which in his judgment was a fitting accessory to make , that section of the Capitol Building as complete as possible. What the generosity of Congress has brought forth must be left to other judgment, based on the work as it stands to-day. What has been carried out has been done with the paramount idea to preserve the sentiments and ideas of the old and historic central building. For that reason solid masonry is the rule. Arches, cornice, and moldings are copied from those in other parts of the building. It only remains to decorate the rooms, and committees of the House and Senate will be housed therein, it is hoped, with pleasure and comfort. For reference, a floor plan of both floors may be found in the appendix to this report. Thereon it will be seen that access to the new work is had at the central entrance, which ojrens through a vestibule into the Rotunda; at the south, and to the House wing, by means of the south corridor and a closed bridge passageway open- ing directly into the main corridor. Near this point a circular stairway goes to the second floor of the new rooms. On the Senate side the north corridor opens into a light well which has a doorway opening near the principal floor landing of the Dome stairway, and immediately adjoining is a doorway opening directly into the elliptical passageway and main corridor leading to the north. The Dome stairway leads to the second-floor rooms. Further convenience of access to these rooms is had by means of two electric elevators, established in the north and south courts, the service of these elevators extending to the subbasement floor, as a convenience to the numerous committee rooms in the two stories below the new rooms. Thus, the facilities for reaching the new rooms are as complete as possible for each story, and the important exits are at points nearest the respective Chambers of Congress. One of the most important items of improvement, and one which suggested itself during the progress of the work, is the new marble vestibule located at the principal central entrance. Its extent is from the west Rotunda entrance to the doorway of the main corridor fronting the new rooms, a distance of 40 feet. Its width is 21£ feet. In this space the old stairway comes up from the floor below, with a landing at the west Rotunda door. On either side of this stairway opening is arranged a colonnade of five Ionic fluted columns, with capitals and bases. The wall pilasters correspond in position. Including columns, full pilasters, and quarter pilasters, the number is as follows: Ten full columns; 14 full pilasters; 4 quarter pilasters. The window openings of the vestibule were so arranged as to form symmetrical panel openings between the wall pilasters. The same may be said of the doorway openings. Elsewhere the entire wall surface, ceiling, and architraves are paneled in pure white marble. The darker shade of Italian marble, of which the columns and pilasters are made, contrasted with the purest white Vermont marble, of which the wall work, architraves, and carved ceiling panels are made, gives a very pleasing effect. In view of the fact that the contracts for this branch of the work were not let until September 15, 1900, too much praise can not be paid to Hilgartner & Sons, of Balti- more, and the Vermont Marble Company for their excellent work and unflagging interest to complete the work in the short time allotted. The carving of the column and pilaster capitals and the architrave and ceiling work is of the highest class. Reference to the floor plan will show a series of rooms with windows opening into 398 Documentary History of the Capitol. the courts which lie on either side of the central vestibule. These courts, of course, start- at the ground floor and reach the skirt of the Dome. Originally they were walled up with ordinary brick. In this condition the lighting of the new rooms adjoining these courts would be unsatisfactory. It was determined to case these court walls in enameled white bricks, which was finally done, and furnished a sur- face cleanly, easily washed down, and conducive to excellent sanitary conditions. The rooms referred to are now lighted well and the outlook greatly improved. I will now proceed to the general details of the construction in order, as follows: REMOVAL OF THE BOOK STACKS AND IRONWORK OF THE OLD CONGRESSIONAL LIBRARY. For this purpose proposals were invited, the material to be deposited near the Cap- itol Building. The work was done by C. A. Schneider’s Sons, the successful bidders, at a cost of $8,075. Consideration showed that none of the material removed could be of service to the Government, and accordingly, with the consent of the Secretary of the Interior, the material was advertised and sold on August 4, 1900. The excel- lent quality brought good prices, and the receipt from the sale nearly reached the cost of removal from the premises, a sum of $7,392.32 being realized. In the appen- dix will be found illustrations showing the interior of the old Library before and after the removal of ironwork, which started on June 11 and was completed July 25, 1900. PREPARATION OF OLD WALLS. This work included the rearrangement of all the window openings facing the courts to correspond to the new plan. To do this work the walls were shored up and iron beams inserted for the window heads. The removal of the ironwork from the entire space disclosed a very interesting picture. On the surface of the walls, a greater part of which were composed of blue gneiss stone which formed the original building walls, was found evidences of the fire which in 1853 destroyed the Library of Con- gress. In other parts of the space, where the walls had been faced with brick and lime mortar, the material was in poor condition, probably from the effects of this fire. Where the north and south wings joined the central section walls 6 feet in thickness were found. These had been perforated to provide circular iron stairways for the use of the Library. These cross walls were in very bad condition, in fact practically unsafe, and it became necessary to remove the greater portion of them, as much for security as for the fact that they were at one point intersected by the corridor openings in the new plan. The roof at these two points was accordingly shored up and these walls were cut away and partly reconstructed in the new Avork. The new Avails became available for the use of the flues. The age of this part of the Capitol building and the consequent settlements of the walls had thrown them much out of a true position — as much in one case as 8 inches in the height of the two stories. In this case all of the old brickwork Avas removed and new brick facing put in. The preparation of the Avails for the reception of the marble vestibule amounted practically to an entire reconstruction, in order to prepare for the three special win- dows on each side which entered into the plan of the vestibule. The ceilings of four of the old rooms adjoining the court, which were a part of the old library, were found to be too high for the level of the second story and they were consequently removed and new brick arch ceilings put in instead. All of the old plaster Avork left in place was removed and the brick walls exposed and refaced. All of the old floor covered by the library space was taken up, the old sand being taken out down to the haunches of the arches, leveled with concrete, and the floor tile, which was of marble and much of which was saved, was utilized to repave the floors below. FLOOR PLANS. On the 10th of August the entire space was ready for the reception of the brick- work. The lines were laid out and arrangements were made for the masons to work The Old Building. 399 in two shifts of eight hours each. From, this time until the completion — about October 15, 1900 — the brickwork went forward sixteen hours per day. PLASTERING. About October 20 the plastering of the brickwork commenced. A special grade was used in order that the surface might dry quickly to receive the white coating. As the work progressed all of the ornamental plaster pieces were modeled and cast, ready to go in place at the first opportunity. This branch of the work was not com- pleted until about December 1st. It was carried forward with two shifts of men work- ing sixteen hours each day. The area covered by the plasterwork approximates 9,000 square yards. FLOOR TILING AND MARBLE BASE. As fast as permitted by the completion of the plasterwork the floor tiling in the rooms and corridors was laid. The patterns were varied as much as possible. No special designs could be employed on account of the shortness of time which pro- hibited special manufacture. The total area of tile laid was 16,000 square feet. Following this 8,350 lineal feet of polished Italian-marble base was put in position in the rooms and corridors. SANITARY APPLIANCES. The toilet rooms for this section were placed as follows: For the first and second stories of the House side, in the housing on the bridge leading to the main corridor near the Rotunda. On the Senate side, a circular room already in place at the east end of the north corridor of the new work was utilized. For the second story a special bridge was constructed at the landing leading to the Dome stairway. As this landing crosses a small open court, ventilation is assured and the housing for the toilet room is pre- pared for top ventilation into the open air. The arrangements for ventilating the House toilets are exceptionally good, as the discharged air enters an open court adjoining Statuary Hall, but not connected with it, after which the air finds its way outward above the roof. Each room in the new work is provided with a marble lavatory with nickeled fit- tings, furnishing hot and cold water. The general supply runs along the corridors of each story, branches leading therefrom to each room. The waste water is carried vertically downward to the sewers below the subbasement floor. The control of the temperature of the hot-water supply is effected at the heating boiler by means of an automatic regulator. THE HEATING AND VENTILATING SYSTEM. The work done under this head comprised not only the rooms of the new work, but two stories of rooms below. For obvious reasons it was necessary to take these in with the new work to make that section of the building and the apparatus com- plete. Besides, the heating of the lower rooms was obsolete, and as for fresh-air supply, the greater portion was obtained from the windows. The appliances consist of a large Sturtevant fan driven by an electric motor of eight horsepower, and a large heating coil with by-pass to control the temperature of the air. This discharges into two main ducts — one leading around and under the floor of the subbasement corridor, the other rising vertically to the two floors of the new work. The lower two stories receive fresh air through vertical ducts leading from the lower main duct to the various rooms through suitable registers. The air-supply arrangements for the new work are different. The ceilings of the corridors in this part are 18 inches less in height than those of the rooms. Between this ceiling and the corridor floor above a duct is formed 18 400 Documentary History of the Capitol. inches deep and the width of the corridor. This duct runs entirely around the space, free of any obstruction; the floor which forms the ceiling of the duct being constructed of iron beams filled with fiat cement arches. The same method pro- vides a duct above the ceiling of the second story corridors. Small ducts, about 9 by 14 inches in size, lead from these main ducts downward to an opening formed in each room over the doorway. This opening is supplied with a suitable grilled panel of metal which diffuses the entering air. The two main corridor ducts connect with the main vertical duct (which leads directly to the fan) at the east end of the south corridor of each story. In addition to the fresh-air supply, which is generally carried at a temperature of 72 degrees during the cold weather, the rooms in the entire western portion are sup- plied with steam radiators connected to vertical risers leading from a main steam line under the roof to the subbasement. One riser therefore supplies a tier of four rooms. The movement of the steam, starting as it does from overhead, is in harmony with the movement of the products of condensation in the radiator. The method insures in nearly every case freedom from disagreeable pounding. The main steam supply is divided between the House and Senate boiler service. The radiators are of the single valve type. Except in the subbasement floor rooms the steam risers are concealed in suitable trenches behind the plaster. I might add that the system has taken into account the possible use of the space allotted to the so-called reference library. ELECTRIC LIGHTING. The arrangements for electric lighting are very complete. The main feeders follow the main air ducts, leaving them at suitable points provided with junction boxes for the various rooms in the four stories. After leaving the main ducts all branches are carried in steel tubing to the several locations for chandeliers and brackets. The entire system is arranged so as to be easily accessible for repairs, and with due regard to possible increase of service in the various rooms. The total number of lights installed is 760. The total number of bracket fixtures 107, and the total number of corridor and room fixtures 75. In this connection, I will state for heating and light- ing purposes a new 250-horsepower water tube steel boiler, costing $5, 511. 50, and two large engines and dynamos, costing $24,330, have been installed. INTERIOR FITTINGS. Under this head are included windows, door frames and doors, and marble mantels. The windows and frames in the new work are entirely new, the old ones being found unfit for further service. All are glazed with best American plate glass and are of the pivoted type, easy to operate, and especially useful in warm weather for obtain- ing the greatest possible supply of outside air. The mantels in each room are of special design. All are of Italian marble. Each fireplace is arranged for service and not for ornament. The general construction as a whole is in keeping with the simple dignity of this building, All doors and frames are of mahogany of the best possible grade and workmanship. They are finished nearly in the natural color of the wood, as it is expected that the effects of time will darken and mellow the tone and bring out the beauty of this particular wood. There now remains the decoration and furnishing of the room, both of which are at this writing under way to be completed by the meeting of Congress. When the entire work is completed a detailed financial statement will be prepared for the next annual report. The general work was carried out by day labor, the character of which deserves and receives the gratitude of the responsible head. A most unusual interest was The Old Building. 401 taken in the work by every employee of every degree of skill. The shortness of time in which to complete the work caused more or less tension, but on the whole it was a tension born of earnestness to do what was hoped of them. * * * PAINTING AND DECORATING OF ROOMS. SENATE SIDE. (1) Committee on Naval Affairs, painted and decorated. (2) Committee on Foreign Relations, painted and decorated. (3) Committee on Agriculture, painted and decorated. (4) Committee on Indian Affairs, back room painted and windows painted in the front room. (5) Committee on Pensions, woodwork and walls painted. (6) Committee on Woman Suffrage, painted. (7) Committee on the Five Civilized Tribes, painted. (8) Committee to Examine the Several Branches of the Civil Service, painted. (9) Committee on Education, painted. (10) Committee on Transportation and Sale of Meat Products, painted. (11) Committee on Additional Accommodations for the Library of Congress, painted. (12) Committee on Public Lands, woodwork painted and wall touched up. (13) The Senate library reading room, painted and decorated. (14) Rooms in Senate Terrace, Nos. 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 2, 4, 6, and corridor, touched up. (15) Committee room on Finance, windows painted and walls touched up. (16) Senate post-office, wall touched up and windows painted. (17) Senate restaurant, partition painted and wall touched up. (18) The Senators’ room in restaurant, painted and decorated. (19) Committee on Appropriations, woodwork painted. (20) The basement corridor by the Senate barber shop, painted. (21) The windows on the Senate from the gallery to the basement floor, painted. (22) The hall, way from the Senate restaurant to the east elevator, painted; sta- tionery room, painted. (23) The corridor and staircase, east side, painted. (24) Senate library stairway, painted. (25) Senate library corridor, painted. (26) Senate library pack rooms, painted. HOUSE SIDE. (27) Committee on Insular Affairs, painted and decorated. (28) Committee on Indian Affairs, painted and decorated. (29) Committee on the Civil Service, painted. (30) Committee on Coinage, Weights, and Measures, painted. (31) Committee on Census, painted. (32) Committee on Ventilation and Acoustics, painted. (33) Committee on Education, painted. (34) Index clerk’s room, painted. (35) Committee on Revision of Law3, painted. (36) The rooms in the House Terrace, Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, touched up. (37) Corridors in the House Terrace, painted. (38) Speaker’s room, painted. H. Rep. 646 26 402 Documentary History of the Capitol. (39) The House Lobby, touched up. (40) Windows and doors on the House floor, painted. (41) Corridor on the House floor, doors and windows, painted. (42) Windows on the basement floor painted and woodwork touched up. (43) House Press Gallery ceiling calcimined and walls touched up. (44) Committee on Levees and Improvements of the Mississippi River, touched up. Also 66 signs for various committee and other rooms throughout the building. [From the annual report of Ethan Allen Hitchcock, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 21, 1901. (57-1, House Doc. No. 5, p. CXC.)] The Architect of the Capitol, Mr. Edward Clark, in his annual report of the oper- ations of his office, sets forth in detail the various improvements and repairs made to the Capitol building during the last fiscal year. The principal improvement to the building was the construction of 29 committee rooms in the space formerly occupied by the Congressional Library. Included in this work was the installation of the necessary apparatus for heating, ventilating, and lighting, and the construction of a marble vestibule at the principal entrance leading to the rooms. The courts adjoin- ing the rooms were lined up with white enameled brick, and, for convenient access to the several floors two elevators operated by electricity were provided. Por the heating and lighting there was procured and installed one 250-horsepower water-tube steam boiler and two 250-horsepower engines and dynamos. The ventilating system includes a large fan operated by an 8-horsepower electric motor placed in the sub- basement story, the ducts leading therefrom running to the several floors through a special air way and ducts constructed over the ceilings of the corridors. In carrying out this work the lower story of rooms beneath the library space were connected with tnis system of heating and ventilating. [From the “Act Making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, nineteen hundred and two, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1901. (Stats, at Large, v. 31, 1156.)] For reconstructing and fireproofing the roof of the central portion of the Capitol building, including the restoration in fireproof construction of the ceilings of the Supreme Court room and Statuary Hall; for material and labor and necessary expenses incident thereto, one hundred and fifty-three thousand five hundred dollars, to be immediately available. To enable the Architect of the Capitol to prepare and submit to Congress at its next session plans, specifications, and estimates of cost for reconstructing and extending in a fireproof manner the central portion of the Capitol building; the renovation and decoration of the rotunda; * * * one thousand five hundred dollars, to be imme- diately available. [House of Representatives. Document No. 573. 57th Congress, 1st Session. Condition of the House Document Room. Letter from the Doorkeeper transmitting, with a letter from the Superintendent of the DoeumentRoom, recommendations as to the condition of the Document Room; alsoareport of the Superintendent of the Capitol on the subject, in response to the reference of the Speaker. April 24, 1902. — Referred to the Committee on Appropriations and ordered to be printed.] Office of Doorkeeper, House of Representatives, Washington, D. C., April 10, 1902. Dear Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a letter from the superintendent of the document room of the House of Representatives, a department under the juris- diction of the Doorkeeper of the House. . Rt?p. 646 — 58-2. STATUARY HALL, 1900 (OLD HALL OF REPRESENTATIVES). The Old Building. 403 In transmitting this report for your consideration, I desire to heartily indorse the urgent request of the superintendent asking that something be done to relieve the congested condition of the document room, as it is absolutely necessary that space be provided, repairs, etc., made, in order to properly conduct the business of the depart- ment in a manner satisfactory to the members of Congress. I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, F. B. Lyon, Doorkeeper. Hon. D. B. Henderson, Speaker House of Representatives. House of Representatives, Office of Superintendent Document Room, Washington, D. C., March 31, 1902. Dear Sir: The accommodations of the document room of the House of Represent- atives impel me to address you, and through you the proper committee having juris- diction over matters relating to said room. There was a time, undoubtedly, when the conveniences and space of this department were sufficient for the work necessary to be done therein. That time has long since passed. The immense volume of business now coming into the document room can not be satisfactorily transacted in the present quarters. I am certain that no other office in the Capitol is so crowded and contracted. Some of the objections may be briefly stated: (1) The palpable lack of space room. (2) A lack of proper and sufficient shelving and file cases. (3) An absolute necessity for more light and ventilation. (4) An office of inadequate size, which during sessions of Congress does not meet the requirements of the situation, and storerooms for documents and files, situated in different places, from the unfinished space under the roof to the dark and moldy rooms in the subbasement. (5) An utter impossibility on the part of the employees to do the business demanded of them to the satisfaction of members and officials or to themselves, however much they may strive to do so. (6) The most important reason for some change here, in my estimation, is the liability of a fire accidentally occurring and the great and incalculable loss which would follow. The dark, narrow passages, overcrowded with inflammable matter, make the place a regular fire trap. Many other reasons can be given to emphasize the necessity for the enlargement and rearrangement of the present House document room. Those who have climbed up into the heights or gone down into the depths of this contracted and deviously arranged department will fully realize the necessity which exists for larger and better facilities for conducting the business and enabling the same to be transacted with that prompt- ness and satisfaction which good public service demands. It is therefore most respectfully suggested that some action be taken by the House which will meet present and future requirements, and I most earnestly recommend that the early attention of Congress may be called to this matter. I have the honor to be, sir, your most obedient servant, Chas. H. Strobeck, Superintendent Document Room, House of Representatives. Hon. F. B. Lyon, Doorkeeper House of Representatives, Washington , D. C. Office Superintendent Capitol Building and Grounds, Washington, D. C., April 23, 1902. Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your reference of April 10, 1902, asking me to investigate and report on certain conditions and lack of accommo- 404 Documentary History of the Gajpitol. dations in the House document room, outlined in a letter written to Mr. Frank B. Lyon, the Doorkeeper of the House, by Charles H. Strobeck, superintendent. The letter is as follows: * * * A brief visit, to the document room will convince any person that the superinten- dent has reasonable ground for complaint. The present conditions are the growth of years, and within my knowledge hasty and frequent additions to the shelving have been made from time to time, until now the rooms are overcrowded and unpleasantly packed with documents, to the detriment of the conduct of business. After consultation with the superintendent I have caused plans to be made for the refitting of the document room with new steel shelving, arranged in such manner as will materially aid in the distribution of and access to files. The estimated cost of this branch of the work is §14,000. The Senate Committee on Rules having assigned to the Senate library all space under the new roof over the library section of the building, up to the division line established by law, there remains at the disposal of the House Committee on Rules the remaining half of the space. This sjiace is exceptionally well adapted to the use of the House document room. Many of its files are already stored there under a temporary arrangement. If the space is assigned to the document room and about §1,000 allotted for the shelving required to fit it up for use, I think, and the super- intendent of the document room believes, that the problem will be solved. Docu- ments now in the basement belonging to the document room can be brought up and arranged. For the prompt conduct of files and documents between the office and the space overhead, I would suggest a carrier or small book elevator operated by electricity, together with the necessary telephone service. At this writing no accurate estimate can be given for this carrier, but I believe that the service can be installed within a limit of §2,500. Minor arrangements, such as new floors, painting, etc., can be completed out of the regular appropriations controlled by this office. Summing up, the probable cost will be: Steel shelving §14,000 Shelving in loft 1 1, 000 Document carrier and communication 2, 500 Total - 17,500 I transmit herewith copies of shelving plans and photographs, the latter of which are characteristic view's of the arrangements now in place in the document room and of the conditions existing. Very respectfully, Elliott Woods, Superintendent V. S. Capitol Building and Grounds. The Speaker of the House of Representatives. [From the “Act Making appropriations to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, nineteen hundred and two, and for prior years, and for other purposes,” approved July 1. 1902. (Stats, at Large, v. 32, pt. 1, 570.)] For refitting document room of the House of Representatives, including steel shelv- ing, wooden shelving in space under new roof over the library section of the building, and for document carrier and communication, to continue available during the fiscal year nineteen hundred and three, seventeen thousand five hundred dollars. For metallic book shelving in Library of House of Representatives, to continue available during the fiscal year nineteen hundred and three, two thousand four hun- dred and fifty dollars. The Old Building. 405 [ From the annual report of Elliott Woods, Superintendent of the United States Capitol Building and Grounds, July 1, 1902. (57 — 2, House Doe. No. 5, Jlisc. Repts., pt. 1, p. 108.)] RECONSTRUCTING ROOF, CENTRAL PORTION OF THE CAPITOL. The act of Congress authorizing this work is as follows: For reconstructing and fireproofing the roof of the central portion of the Capitol building, including the restoration in fireproof construction of the ceilings of the Supreme Court room and Statuary Hall; for material and labor and necessary expense incident thereto, one hundred and fifty-three thousand five hundred dollars, to be immediately available. The structural area of that part embraced in the work approximated 37,500 square feet. The new roof work covers the entire roof section of the old part of the Capitol and includes the interior fireproofing of the ceilings of the Supreme Court room and Statuary Hall. The explosion and lire which occurred in the Supreme Court section of the Capitol November 6, 1898, brought to the attention of Congress the then dangerous condition of the roof over the old part of the Capitol. In the old days, the documents of Congress required but little storage space and did not, as now, extend into every nook and corner of the building. As the business of Congress increased, demands for storage space for documents became greater, until at the time the fire occurred the entire loft under the wooden roof was filled with books and inflammable documents. If the lire in the Supreme Court section had progressed for five minutes more the old roof would surely have been destroyed and the Dome seriously injured. Congress was prompt in providing for a new and practically fireproof roof and other construction which will in great measure do away with danger from incipient fires. The new roof is constructed of steel and concrete, covered with copper. In outlines it conforms somewhat to the old roof, but the domes are somewhat lower. The Architect made this change so that in case the Walter plan for the extension of the east front is carried out, the eastern front of the Capitol will conform to the per- spective view as made by Mr. Walter. At the same time the sky line as seen from the west will closely approximate to the old line. The lanterns which surmount the dome roofs of the Supreme Court section and Statuary Hall are reproductions in style of the old lanterns. The reconstruction and fireproofing of the ceiling of the Supreme Court room was done in the strongest possible manner. The ornamental plaster work is a duplica- tion of the old work in every detail. Above this ceiling a fireproof partition encircles and completely closes off the ceiling from the remaining space under the roof. Of course the partition is provided with an entrance doorway for purposes of inspection and access to the exhaust ven- tilating fan. This fan is located in the southeast corner of the inclosed space in a room having for a ventilating outlet a circular window, in which the exhaust fan is located. The remaining space is given over to the use of the Senate Library and a glimpse at the photograph (plates 8 and 9) will show how well adapted to use the space is. The construction of the roof over Statuary Hall follows the same general line as that over the Supreme Court, both exterior proportions being the same. The con- struction of Statuary Hall ceiling duplicates structurally, the old ceiling. Some modification has been made to the ornamental plaster work, from a point north of the lantern opening down to the cornice. In the old ceiling, and from this point down to the cornice, the surface was smooth and the panelling was painted instead of being in recess and relief. The same may be said of the ribs. In the new ceiling this has been changed to recess panels and ribs in relief. Likewise, the arch at the 406 Documentary History of the Capitol. south running from pier to pier has been supplied with recessed panels instead of painted panels. One of the features of the Capitol building interesting to visitors was the combina- tion of echoes in the old hall. While mysterious to the ordinary listener, they are readily explained by the laws of acoustics. It was a problem of some interest to preserve these characteristics which have been the pleasure of numerous visitors. To do this and be entirely successful would have required a smooth ceiling exactly as before. Preserving to within live-eighths of an inch variation the contour of the old hall ceiling, and by compromising on the depth to which the new panels might go, the echoes have been saved to a great extent, though somewhat diminished in strength. So far nothing has been said of the immense amount of preparatory work neces- sary before installing the steel work of the new construction. Every part below the old roof had to be protected from the weather by the construction of temporary rooting, which would enable the workmen to labor without obstruction. Some idea may be formed as to the magnitude of this branch of the work when the photographs are examined. These portray better than words the progress of events. Over 90 tons of unnecessary brick work were removed from above the attic rooms of the Supreme Court section. This space is now a splendid addition to the Senate library. With the exception of one accident involving the injury of three employees, every branch of the work went forward smoothly and pleasantly. Contractors and men assiduously labored for the completion of the work. The strike among the steel workers throughout the country seriously hampered for a time the efforts of the contractors for the steel work, and caused a delay in the removal of the Statuary Hall scaffolding until January of this year. This caused no incon- venience to Congress as a passageway through the hall had been provided for the usual conduct of persons and business. In addition to the appropriation of $153,500 provided by Congress for the work, this office was, by an understanding with the Committees on Appropriations of the two Houses, authorized to expend $45,000 out of the appropriation for the construc- tion of the rooms in the old Library space. Some little work remains to be done after the date of this report, but enough is now known to express the belief that of the total sum allotted some $30,000 will remain unexpended to the credit of the library appropriation. For the problems connected with the preparation of drawings for, and the erection of the steel work of the new roof, this office availed itself of the services of Mr. F. L. Averill, mechanical engineer, associate member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, and can testify to the conscientious and painstaking manner in which he performed his duties and to his high professional skill as an engineer and designer. [From the annual report of Elliott Woods, Superintendent of the United States Capitol Building and Grounds, July 1, 1902. (57-2, House Doe. No. 5, Misc. Repts., pt. 1, p. 410.)] EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL BUILDING, ETC. In accordance with the following law, approved March 3, 1901— To enable the Architect of the Capitol to prepare and submit to Congress at its next session plans, specifications, and estimates of cost of reconstruction and extending in a fireproof manner the central portion of the Capitol building; the renovation and decoration of the rotunda; also for the con- struction of a fireproof building adjacent to the grounds of the Capitol building, to be used for offices, storage, and power plant purposes connected with the Capitol building, one thousand five hundred dollars, to be immediately available — A partial report has been made to Congress in relation to the extension of the east front of the Capitol. The Old Building. 407 Parts heretofore left out will be incorporated herein, forming a whole document set forth in the appendix. [See appendix referred to in the section concerning proposed Extension of East Front. ] [From the annual report of Elliott Woods, Superintendent of the Capitol Building and Grounds July 1, 1903. (Pamphlet edition, p. 4.)] The House document room has been entirely refitted with new steel shelving, tables, and spiral stairway, and the old floor of this room has been taken up and replaced with a new floor of terazza suitably disposed in panels. III. THE EXTENSIONS. [House proceedings of Mar. X, 1843: Congressional Globe, 27-3, p. 373.] On the motion of Mr. Barnard, the following resolution was adopted: Resolved, That the Secretary of War be requested to cause a plan and estimates to be prepared at the topographical bureau, or otherwise within his department, and laid before Congress at the next ses- sion, for a room or apartment in the Capitol, or to be added thereto, for the better accommodation of the sittings of the House of Representatives. [House of Representatives, Doc. No. 51, War Dept., 28th Congress, 1st session. Alteration of the Capitol. Letter from the Secretary of War, transmitting a report of the Colonel of the Corps of Topo- graphical Engineers, with estimates and plans, for the alteration of the Capitol, &c. January 10, 1844. — Read, and referred to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. January 16, 1844.— Committee discharged, and to lie.] War Department, January 8, 1844. Sir: In compliance with a resolution of the House of Representatives of the 1st of March last, requiring the Secretary of War “to cause a plan and estimates to be pre- pared at the Topographical Bureau, or otherwise within his department, and laid before Congress at its next session, for a room or apartment in the Capitol, or to be added thereto, for the better accommodation of the sittings of the House of Repre- sentatives,” I respectfully transmit, herewith, a report of the colonel of the corps of topographical engineers, with estimates and plans for the alterations deemed neces- sary and proper. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. Porter. Hon. J. W. Jones, Speaker of the House of Representatives. Bureau of Topographical Engineers, Washington, January 6, 1844- Sir: On the 1st of March, 1843, a resolution passed the House of Representatives in the following words: [Resolution quoted above.] Attention was immediately given to the subject, and, after a thorough examination of the present building and grounds, it vras decided that the only plan which could be adopted, and which would not violate architectural rules, was an extension in length of the present building. 1st. Viewing the present Capitol from any point, it evidently wants length, having in its present condition a disproportionate height. To increase its length, would therefore relieve it from this defect, and increase its beauty. 2d. And examining the building in reference to its present accommodations, there is a great want of rooms for committees, for the use of the Clerk of the House and his assistants, and for the public documents required in the business of the House. 408 The Extensions. 409 3d. It is also essential that, in any modification of the present building, the busi- ness of Congress should not be interrupted. 4th. It is essentia] to good taste that the same style of architecture which now adorns the building, should be preserved in the additions. All of these considerations appear to me to be fulfilled in the plan now submitted for consideration. The drawing exhibits the ground plan of the work, and the elevation of the eastern front. Leaving the blank leaves down, which are attached to the drawing, the plan and elevation of the Capitol as it now is will be seen : raising these leaves will exhibit the plan and elevation of the building with the addition proposed. The resolution merely calls for a room “for the better accommodation of the sittings of the House of Representatives;” this room is placed, in the plan, at the southern end of the present building; but as it is essential that a similar extension should be made at the northern end, it will be found in the drawing. There is also, on a separate sheet, a perspective view of the interior of the proposed hall. The estimate of the cost of the addition at one end — namely, of the proposed hall for the House of Representatives — is hereto annexed. After the dimensions of the additions and their position had been determined, and the drawing of the plan and elevation completed, an opportunity offered of con- sulting that eminent architect, \V. Strickland, esq. of Philadelphia; and accordingly the whole was submitted to his inspection. It gives me great pleasure to say that it met with his entire approbation, and, in conformity with your desire, he was also employed to make an estimate of the cost, and to give a view of the interior, method of making the roof, and of admitting the light. Our views on these points do not differ materially, as the drawings furnished by Mr. Strickland and from this office will more fully show; the principal difference being in the space assigned to spec- tators. Mr. Strickland, in his plan, extends the gallery space to the outer walls of the building; while in that from this office, this space is limited to the dimensions of the hall. Our estimates agree to within 13,500 dollars — the larger being the one from this office. The difference arises chiefly from different prices assumed for the brick-work. The perspective plans will be the better understood by reflecting that they are intended to exhibit the interior of the hall from the south, the south wall being removed. The hall will be amply lighted from the windows of the south wall, and from the roof; the manner of arranging the roof-light will be apparent from an inspection of the drawings. I have had the plan now submitted examined and criticised by many very com- petent judges, and it affords me much satisfaction to say that it has been by all con- ceded that the architectural beauty of the building is much improved, and its accom- modations judiciously increased; and no [apprehension] is entertained that any of the defects of hearing experienced in the present hall will be found in the addition proposed. The papers which accompany this report, are — 1st. The general reasoning about the dimensions of the building, from Lieutenant Humphreys; 2d. His estimate; 3d. Some views from him in reference to ventilating and heating; 4th. A letter from Mr. Strickland, with his estimate. It will give me great pleasure at any time to wait upon the Committee on Public Buildings in order to furnish such explanations as they may desire. In the construction of the work, the first part to be erected is the room for the House of Representatives; the addition at the opposite end may well be delayed until increased accommodations for the Senate and for the Supreme Court may ren- der it necessary; and the whole or any part may be made without interruption to the present use of the building, and without defacing any part of it. 410 Documentary History of the Capitol. Whether the present architecture of the existing building be the most acceptable or not, or whether the materials of which it is composed be the best or not, are questions which it is now too late to discuss. I have considered it essential to good taste, convenience, and economy, to preserve the same style of architecture, and the same kind of material, in the additions proposed. I cannot conclude this communication without stating that the drawings from this office, which exhibit so much skill, taste, and beauty, were made by Lieutenant Humphreys, of the corps of topographical engineers, assisted by Mr. Bruff of this office. Very respectfully, sir, your obedient servant, Hon. J. M. Porter, Secretary of War. J. J. Abert, Colonel Corps Topographical Engineers. Note. — The following drawings are sent with this report: 1. Plan and elevation of the building, with plan of the ground-floor] Bureau Top’l of the hall . . | Engineers. 2. Perspective view of the interior of hall; (the Speaker’s chair is not] shown in this view, as it is intended to be placed against the Buieau Top 1 southern wall, and cannot, therefore, be exhibited in this view) . ngmeers. 3. Plan of the ground-floor of the hall on a large scale W. Strickland. 4. Perspective view of the interior of the hall W. Strickland. 5. Plans of the roof framing W. Strickland. No. 1. Remarks upon the dimensions, by Lieutenant Humphreys. In planning a new hall for the House of Representatives, the first step should be to inquire what are the defects of the present hall, and whence they arise. First, then, a person speaking in this hall, from some positions, even in a low voice, can lie heard with perfect distinctness in a few other positions, although distant; whilst in many others, although the speaker should raise his voice to a high pitch, he would not be distinctly heard. Again: in other positions in the hall, a speaker will exhaust himself in vain efforts to make himself heard, and his auditors find themselves also exhausted in efforts to hear him. In the first case, the curved walls of the hall collect the voice into foci, at which points it is heard distinctly, whilst at all other points it is indistinct; and, in the second case, from the shape of the ceiling (a half dome terminated by a vertical plane) and its great height, the voice is in a great measure lost, a small portion only being reflected towards the floor; a confused sound being caused by that which is reflected backward and forward, from the dome to the plane, and from the plane to dome. The three principal defects of the present hall, then, are — 1st. The curved form of the walls. 2d. The form of the ceiling. 3d. The great height of the ceiling. Another defect is the projecting gallery behind the Speaker’s chair. The curved form of wall being objectionable, the next form which presents itself is the square, which is also desirable as it brings speaker and hearers in the closest proximity next after the circle. The form, therefore, adopted for the proposed hall is nearly that of a square, its dimensions being determined by the number of members and auditors to be accommodated, limited by the distance at which the voice can be distinctly heard. The Extensions. 411 The height and form of the ceiling have been partly determined by the following principles — or, rather, care has been taken not to violate these principles in deter- mining the form, height, and arrangement of the ceiling. Chladni, a writer upon acoustics, says that for concert rooms square and polygonal plans should have pyramidal ceilings. (Some resonance is desirable in these kind of rooms.) It is said that a square room whose height is one-third of its breadth, or a parallelogram whose height is one-half of its breadth, will seldom, if ever, produce echo; but if they be higher, they will; anil that no room designed to aid the voice should be much higher than 27 feet. Inclined ceilings, in lofty or very long rooms, also conduce to echo. Professor Reid, of Edinburgh, says, the difficulty of communicating sound in public buildings must be attributed, mostly, not so much to want of power in the voice of the speaker, as to the interruptions from prolonged reverberation and other causes. He strongly objects to projecting galleries, but a retreating gallery, he thinks, would not be very disadvantageous: he considers ornament and cross partitions on the ceil- ing desirable and advantageous for sound. In his plan for a new House of Com- mons, he proposes that the walls and floor of the hall shall absorb sound — except, perhaps, the wall behind the Speaker’s chair; and that the ceiling shall strengthen the voice, and diffuse it equally throughout the room; for which object the ceiling should be as low as possible, (about 36 feet high at the ridge,) and composed of two inclined planes, at an angle of from 20° to 30° with the horizon, with ornamented cross partitions. This being premised, the following description, in connexion with the drawings, will explain the plan proposed for a new hall for the House of Representatives. It proposes an addition to the present Capitol of 103 feet 6 inches front, and 152 feet 6 inches depth. The walls to be 4 feet thick, including the facing of freestone. Main passages 15 feet 6 inches wide; passage under the gallery 14 feet wide. A flight of 42 steps, of 1 foot tread and 6 inches rise, leads to the floor of the hall. The par- tition walls separating the hall from the passages are 2 feet thick. The hall is 105 feet by 75 feet 6 inches, including, in the first number, the two side galleries, each 8 feet wide, open underneath to give room for guests; the latter number does not include the gallery (15 feet 6 inches wide) over the passage way. On the gallery floor the hall is 105 feet by 91 feet. These galleries will accommodate as many per- sons as the galleries of the present hall. There are seats for 336 members: by a different arrangement of the desks, there will be room for 418 members. Each desk is 3 inches higher than the one in front of it. There are desks for 28 reporters. The floor of the lowest seat in the gallery is 12 feet 6 inches above the floor of the House at the Speaker’s chair. The ceiling, at its highest point, is 32 feet above the floor. It is inclined, rising 2 feet from the side walls to the ridge. It should be made of wood, and painted in panel. The principal light should be admitted from the ceiling, in the manner shown in the perspective drawing; the glass to be slightly ground. The walls without panels, but painted. The figure of Liberty would be well placed behind and just above the Speaker’s chair; the eagle above it. On the ground-floor there can be 16 rooms, with arched ceilings, 16 feet high at the highest point; the arch 2 bricks thick; a space of 18 inches is left between the key brick and the floor above, to allow of the arrangements for heating and ventilating. The cellar floor is 8 feet below the pavement; the foundation walls of the main building average 6 feet thick; the partition walls 4 feet, A. A. Humphreys, Lieutenant Top. Eng. Bureau of Topographical Engineers, October 15, 1843. 412 Documentary History of the Capitol. Since making the accompanying estimate, a conversation having been had with the Clerk of the House and his principal clerk upon the subject of arranging the rooms of the first floor, for the convenience of the business of the House, it was found that the best arrangement would be, six large rooms along the south end, about 20 feet square, for the clerks’ offices; the remaining space to be occupied by two large rooms for documents, about 40 feet square, surrounded on all sides by passages, from which the rooms will be lighted. The difference in the cost, with this arrangement, is not sufficient to make it nec- essary to revise the estimate. A. A. Humphreys, Lieut. Top. Eng. No. 2. Estimate of probable cost. Excavating 5,000 perches earth, at 30 cents per perch $1, 500 00 Laying 2,566 perches of rubble-stone masonry, including cost of stone, hauling, cement, masons’ and laborers’ hire, at $5 50 per perch 14, 113 00 Laying 4,265,000 bricks in mortar of half cement and half lime, includ- ing bricks, cement, lime, bricklayers’ and laborers’ hire, &c., at §16 per thousand 68,240 00 For 38,414 cubic feet, or 2,561 tons of freestone, at §6 50 per ton 16, 646 00 Cutting 34,443 superficial feet of joints of the same, at 30 cents per super- ficial foot, and 20 per cent, for tools, labor, &c 13, 144 00 Laying 1,536 perches of freestone, including cement, labor, &c., at $2 50 per perch 3, 840 00 Cutting balustrade, at §6 per running foot 2, 844 00 Cutting entablature, 393 feet, at §40 per lineal foot, and 20 per cent, for tools, &c ■ 18,840 00 Cutting 38 pilaster capitals, at §80 per capital, and 20 per cent, for tools, &c 3,650 00 Cutting 38 pilaster bases, at 75 cents per sup. foot, 10 feet each, and 20 per cent, for tools, &c 336 00 Cutting 1,295 sup. feet rustic entablature, at 75 cents per sup. foot, and 20 per cent., &c 1, 521 00 Cutting rustic pilaster base, 380 feet, at 75 cents per foot, and 20 per cent., &c 342 00 Surface cutting of 20,301 sup. feet, at 30 cents per foot, and 20 per cent. for tools, &c 7, 308 00 Laying 331,000 bricks for partition walls, at §16 per thousand 5, 296 00 200 tons of freestone for steps, at $6 per ton 1 , 200 00 Cutting 5,760 feet of steps, at 30 cents per foot 1, 728 00 Plastering, floating, stucco-finish with cement, 41,383 yards, at 50 cents per yard 20, 691 00 Plastering, stucco-finish, &c., of arched surface, 7,200 yards, at 75 cents per yard 5, 400 00 Painting exterior of building, 8,500 yards, at 30 cents per yard 2, 550 00 1,970 lbs. iron sash frame, at 6 cents per lb 118 20 1,578 panes of glass, at §3 per pane 4, 734 00 Roofing with iron and copper 20, 000 00 Paving floors with tile, 16,000 sup. feet, at 75 cents per sup. foot 12, 000 00 Columns and galleries 3, 000 00 Floor of the hall 500 00 The Extensions. 413 Painting the interior of the hall $2, 000 00 30 doors 1 , 000 00 Superintendence 10,000 00 Contingencies, including scaffolding, centring, &c., at 20 per cent 47, 708 26 Total cost Bureau of the Corps of Top. Eng., October 15, 1843. . 296, 248 86 A. A. Humphreys, Lieut. Top. Eng. No. 3. Washington, November 30, 1843. Sir: To comply with your directions to report upon the modes of ventilating and warming apartments applicable to the proposed additions to the Capitol, I cannot do better than extract largely from Tredgold’s treatise on that subject. As it is a subject upon which I have never bestowed any attention until within a few weeks past, 1 have no plan of my own to offer, but my experience of the uncom- fortableness and ill effects of the methods in general use in this country for warming large rooms by stoves or heated air, inclines me to favor one which promises to be without their faults. Tredgold observes, that, in the means used to warm an apartment, we should “endeavor to combine safety, cleanliness, and comfort, with healthiness and economy. “In dwelling rooms, the effect of heat should be transient — that is, incapable of producing a chemical change in any of the bodies heated; the source which supplies the heat should be of a limited temperature, or so situated that any substance in which it can produce a change may be immediately expelled. “It appears to have been fully proved that a dry heat, not exceeding 212 degrees, will not injure any species of animal or vegetable matter, nor produce a sensible change in the quality of the air. We may, therefore, employ a surface limited to 212° to warm the air of an apartment; if a higher degree of heat be used, there will be a risk of producing what is called burnt air, which is neither healthful nor agreeable. “In a well-constructed common fire-place, the fire expels all the noxious matter it generates. A common fire warms a room by radiant heat, or rather warms the occupants of the room by it; the air of the room is slowly heated by it, in a room so warmed, a person may have a comfortable degree of warmth, and yet breathe a com- paratively cool atmosphere — which is a great advantage, for much more oxygen is consumed by respiration in cool air than in warm air, and consequently greater health ensues. (Lavoisier.) “ Bodies at a temperature of 212° afford very little radiant heat; they communi- cate warmth chiefly by contact; and the heat is diffused by means of the air which is put in motion, and communicates the heat it receives to the solid bodies in the room. “In a room warmed by heating the air, a person does not feel a comfortable degree of warmth when the thermometer is below 62°. “ The continual absorption of moisture from the body, when in a bath of warm air, (over heated air,) produces headache, the eyes feel wearied and painful, and the whole frame is disordered. These sensations do not occur, (or at least in a less degree) if you saturate the air of the room with moisture. But would it be healthy to live in so moist an atmosphere? 414 Documentary History of the Capitol. “In an apartment warmed chiefly by radiant heat, the air is cooler than the objects receiving heat from the fire. The rays of a fire produce no more vapor from moist bodies, than they supply with heat; and, therefore, they produce no cold when unaided by the affinity of warm and dry air. Moisten the bulb of a ther- mometer, and expose it to the action of warm dry air, it will sink down several degrees; so, if one’s clothes have acquired any degree of dampness from a moist atmosphere, a chilling coldness is felt on entering a room filled with hotair. The effect of warm air in absorbing moisture is powerful; it absorbs it in a state of vapor, and this vapor requires a great quantity of heat for its formation, in the state termed latent heat: hence, the risk of rooms with warm dry air giving cold. On the contrary, moisten the bulb of a thermometer, and expose it to the rays of a fire, and it will rise. A person warmed by radiant heat is, however, unequally warmed. The cool freshness of the air, and the warmth of the sun’s rays, are sensations most pleasur- able when united. We never feel heat oppressive or injurious till the air becomes hot. But warming by radiant heat can be applied only on a small scale, unless it be in conjunction with other methods; for an intense source of heat would be insup- portable, and as it must be freely exposed, would be dangerous; and since heat diminishes as the square of the distance from the source, its extent is very limited. We cannot employ many fires, without a risk of smoke. “Radiant heat, by itself, cannot, then, be employed to heat a large horizontal space; and we must diffuse heat by means of air. “By one method, the air is heated in the place to be warmed. By another, it is heated in a separate place, below the level of the place to be warmed. The combi- nation of these principles is better than either separately, because, when the heated air has been elevated to a temperature far exceeding that which is required in a room, it loses its freshness, and becomes vapid and enervating. “ Steam , when employed at a low pressure, will never give to the surface containing it a greater heat than that of boiling water, or 212°; and when that surface is of a proper material, it produces no essential effect on the air: it is safe, and can be con- ducted with facility to any part of a building. Hot water may also be employed to convey heat, and, in conjunction with steam, (using the hot water from the con- densed steam, ) forms the best and most economical system. “There are contrivances for using air to distribute heat, keeping it at a limited temperature, by placing the surface from which the air derives its heat at a great distance from the burning fuel. Another mode consists in confining the burning fuel within a proper thickness of matter of a slow conducting power. Swedish stoves are upon this principle, and hot house flues. With proper materials, it is an excellent plan on a small scale. “Where stoves are used, the air, being in contact with surfaces far above 212°, becomes unhealthy. In the Russian military hospitals almost all the cases of sick- ness are in the winter, which the surgeons attribute to the close air of the stove heat. “Steam has been found to be safe, salubrious, and economical in heating rooms. Dr. Ure says, ‘the people who work in steam drying rooms are healthy; those who were formerly employed in the stove heated apartments, became soon sickly and emaciated .’ — Dictionary of Chem. “One important advantage of steam for distributing heat, is, that it can be extended to a very great distance from the boiler in every direction, with equal facility, and with an inconsiderable loss of heat.” The discussion of the principles for determining the dimensions of the steam appa- ratus, it is unnecessary to enter into. Of the ventilation and loss of heat in public buildings. * * * The quantity of steam-pipe for the air chambers ( which I will suppose situated in the sub-basement) should be sufficient to heat 6,000 cubic feet of air per minute 52°. The Extensions. 415 1,000 square feet of pipe will do this; and there might be two large air chambers, of 300 square feet of pipe each, for the long sides of the hall, and two, containing 200 square feet each, for the shorter sides. The pipe in each chamber might be divided into four parts, to be connected or disconnected as occasion required. The remain- ing 300 feet of pipe, to bring the temperature to 62°, should be distributed in the Hall of Representatives. It might be carried along the main passage, from the principal entrance to the Speaker’s chair; then branching off at right angles to the side galleries, and along the columns of the galleries until the 300 feet are completed, when the pipe should leave the room. Perhaps it might be found better to carry it along the sides of the hall. The area of the apertures by which the warm air is admitted into the hall from the air chamber, when the thermometer is at zero, is 8 square feet; this is the mini- mum extent of opening. The maximum opening we will determine to be when t lie difference between the external air and that of the air upon leaving the chamber is 5°; it is then 25 square feet; or if the maximum should be when the difference is 2£, then 36.6 square feet will be the area of the opening. For warming the rooms of the first floor, and the passages of both floors, (2,000 people being supposed to be in the building,) additional 500 square feet of surface of pipe will be sufficient in the coldest weather. The boilers for the whole 1,800 feet of pipe, four inches in diameter, must be of the capacity of 314 cubic feet; and they will consume a bushel of coal (New- castle) per hour, to supply the heat necessary when the thermometer is at zero. 700 feet of pipe will be the average extent of surface in use during the three winter months, at an expense of 0.4 of a bushel of coal per hour; and supposing the tire kept up fifteen hours a day, the amount of coal consumed for heating the whole additional building at the south end of the Capitol, for the three winter months, will be but 21 tons, which, at $5 per ton, will be $105. The mean temperature of spring and autumn is about 55°; and during these six months, 184 square feet of pipe will be in use to warm the whole building. Sup- posing the fires kept up 15 hours a day, the whole amount of coal required will be 10.5 tons, which, at $5 per ton, is $52 50. The total cost of fuel for the whole additional building at the south end, for one year, will be $157 50. The cost of attendance will not be greater than, if as great as, that for wood or other kinds of fires. Supposing the building ventilated by means of a fire in the garret, where the height of the chimney can only be 17 feet; for summer ventilation, when the thermometer is at 90°, the area of the main ventilating tube must be 15.25 square feet, and the area of the tubes from the hall must l ie 11.3 square feet. When the thermometer is at zero, the ventilating tube must be in area 5 square feet, and the areas of the tubes for the hall must be 3.67 square feet. (Two thousand persons are supposed to be in the building, and the air in the ventilator is supposed to be heated to 212°.) The quan- tity of fuel in the latter case, (thermometer at zero, ) when it is greatest, is that which will heat 480,000 cubic feet of air to 212° in one hour, which is 44.5 lbs. of Newcastle coal. It would be scarcely necessary to enter into any further details of the apparatus for heating and ventilating at present; to digest and perfect a system would require much time. The general principles upon which it would be based, are, I think, sufficiently illustrated by the preceding applications. It is said that experience daily confirms the advantage of employing steam as a vehicle for diffusing heat. Dr. Reid, of Edinburgh, in his examination before a committee of Parliament upon the subject of sound, heat, and ventilation, with a view to the improvement of the Houses of Parliament in those particulars, testifies strongly to the efficacy of the heated current of air in ventilating. Late authorities, however, question its efficiency, as well as its economy, when 416 Docamentary History of the Capitol. employed singly for ventilating; and give the preference to a mode by which fresh air is forced into the building by mechanical means, and the foul air thereby expelled. A very simple manner of effecting this, is by an eccentric or spiral fan, worked by a small steam-engine, connected with the steam apparatus for heating. It has been applied with great success in ventilating the Reform Club-House, (London,) where it is connected with the steam apparatus for warming. At a cost of seventy-five cents a day, nearly the whole of this extensive building is warmed and ventilated: the fan forces in 11,000 cubic feet of fresh air in a minute. The air is heated to the degree for comfort before entering any of the apartments. A defect in the arrange- ment of the flues of this building is a want of means for varying the temperature of the air thrown into the rooms; this it is proposed to correct, by a judicious connexion of cold and hot air-flues beyond the heat chamber. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. A. Humphreys, 1st Lieutenant Topographical Engineers. To Col. J. J. Abert, Chief of Corps of Topographical Engineers. No. 4. Philadelphia, December 6, 1843. Sir: I have the honor to report to you the accompanying drawings, and an esti- mate, in conformity with your plan and elevation for enlarging the south wing of the Capitol of the United States, and for the construction of a new Hall of Representa- tives, with appropriate committee and clerks’ rooms attached. The sectional perspective representation of the proposed hall is taken from a point in front of the Speaker’s chair, and exhibits the design of the framing of the iron principal rafters of the roof, and their supports by the columns of the surrounding galleries. These galleries will afford accommodation for at least 600 people, with a perfect view from all parts of the arena of the hall. In the framing of the roof, I have, for two reasons, chosen the longest span, which is from east to west. The difference of span, however, is not much greater than that from north to south; first, because the summit or ridge of the roof should lead the w'ater away from the parapets of the present building; and, secondly, that the sky lights may be more symmetrically arranged in the ceiling of the hall. The plan of trussing is one of great strength, even for a much greater span; and you will perceive that I have elevated the ceiling in the centre about 3 feet, not only for the purpose of giving a tensive stiffness of contraction to the trusses, but to overcome an optical illusion which appears in all ceilings that are horizontal and of large surface. I allude to the appearance of sagging beneath a level plane, which is always to be observed where light is admitted through a flat ceiling at various points. The roof has a descent of 8 feet in 76 feet; and its ridge or summit is level with the top of the balustrade, so that it cannot be seen but from positions higher than the Capitol itself. Although there are many theories, particularly among the Italian architects, respecting the best forms to be given to halls, theatres, saloons, &c., to assist the voice and give effect to musical performances, they have in almost every instance failed in practice — owing, principally, to the great height given to their ceilings; and although there have not yet, in the present day, been instituted any satisfactory experiments of a practical character upon the best forms of rooms for public speak- ing, yet experience has taught us that all kinds of circular forms, and many-sided figures, as boundary lines of walls and ceilings, are productive of echo or resonance; and that plain surfaces with quadrangular outlines and flat ceilings are more to be relied on with regard to public speaking. The Extensions. 417 The question of proportion and symmetry between the length and breadth of a room, with reference to the height of a ceiling, has been arbitrarily settled by the architects of almost all of the schools, upon the rule that two-thirds of the width of a room should be given to the height of a ceiling (length being out of the question); but a much lower proportion than this has been found, in practice, to be the best plan for the conveyance of a speaker’s voice. In the Senate and Bepresentatives chambers of the Capitol at Harrisburg, and in the Musical Fund Hall of this city the height of the ceilings compared with the breadth of the rooms is as 1 to 3, nearly; and these rooms have the well-deserved reputation of being the best that I know of in this country. For speakers as as well as hearers, any lower proportion than this would be oppressive to the eye, but better for the voice; for I have observed in the crypt of very low basement stories, particularly of churches with flat ceilings, that the effort of speakers is less, while that of the hearers is also less; but the limit for the height of a ceiling should be where proportion is not altogether lost sight of. The compass of a speaker’s voice is essentially governed by the height of the ceiling, and not so much by the length or breadth of the room. The higher the ceiling, the more difficult for the speaker; and it is upon this principle, that the old-fashioned sounding-boards, suspended over the pulpits of churches with high ceilings, were constructed, that the sound of the voice should be deflected upon the auditory, and not lost in the vacant space above. There is a good deal of truth in the effect of a sounding-board, for I had occasion, some years ago, to remove one of these appliances for deflecting sound, on the score of its unsightliness; and the speaker felt its loss in the necessity of applying an increased effort of his lungs to be heard under a high ceiling. The height of the ceiling of the perspective section is 30 feet, which is as low as Professor Reid prescribes, and architectural proportion would (under the horizontal dimensions of the hall) permit. The sky-lights are so arranged as to diffuse light over the whole arena beneath, and will at all times afford the best possible means of ventilation. The chimney flues of the fire places of the hall may be drawn over quite as effectively through the division walls of the committee rooms, to those of the outside, being about 15 feet horizontal in a height of 18 feet. In the following specification and estimate, I have estimated the total cost of con- structing the building, including contingencies of all kinds, upon a liberal scale for workmanship and materials; and believing fully that the best plan of conducting the public works is by the day, and not by contract, I have made ever} 1 kind of allow- ance necessary to meet the most remote advances in wages; and, under a skillful and faithful superintendence, the sum of $10,000 maybe only added to the total amount; and I have no doubt that, for the estimate the building can be substantially com- pleted, and in two years from the time of its commencement. In conclusion, sir, I submit for your consideration the following details of cost, which have been made with the greatest care, together with the accompanying drawing illustrative of the object in view. With great respect, your obedient servant, William Strickland. To Col. .1 . .T. Abert, Bureau of Topographical Engineers, Washington. Specification and estimate of the cost of enlarging the south winy of the Capitol of the United States, and constructing a new Hall of Representatives, with appropriate commit- tee and clerks' rooms attached, according with the accompanying drawings and sections. Dimensions, 152 feet 6 inches, by 103 feet 6 inches. The present order of architec- ture to be kept up throughout. Cellar depth, 10 feet. H. Rep. 040 27 418 Documentary History of the Capitol. Height from pavement. Ft. In. Sub-basement 3 4 Basement 19 6 Principal story 32 0 Entablature and balustrade 15 2 Whole height 70 0 Thickness of walls — cellar 6 0 basement 5 0 superstructure 4 0 CELLAR STORY. Excavation of cellar and foundations, 6,141 cubic yards, at 40 cents $2, 456 40 Foundation stone, and cellar walls — 2,557 perches, of the largest size, at $4 per perch 10, 228 00 1,278 barrels of lime, at $2 2, 556 00 1,200 cartloads of screened gravel, at $1 50 1, 800 00 Masons' work — 1,278 days’ work, at $2 2, 556 00 Brick arches of the cellar story — 294,800 bricks, at $6 1, 768 80 221 barrels of lime, at $2 442 00 220 cartloads of sand, at §1 50 330 00 Brick-lagers’ work — 300 days’ work, at §2 600 00 500 perches of rubble stone, for filling in the spandrels of the arches, at $2 _ 1, 000 00 260 barrels of common lime, at $1 260 00 130 cartloads of screened gravel, at $1 50 195 00 Masons’ work — in laying rubble stone, 250 days, at $2 500 00 Laborers — 2,800 days’ work, at Si 25 3,500 00 Wheelbarrows, spades, shovels, picks, screens, &c 390 00 Wheeling plank, scaffolding, lumber for centres and puttocks, 45,000 superficial feet, at $20 900 00 Carpenters’ work and their tools — 360 days’ work, at $1 50 540 00 Tools s. 210 00 Blacksmiths’ -work, in fitting iron window frames, sash, sharpening tools, &c 450 00 Cast-iron window frames and sash, 1,100 lbs., at 4 cents 440 00 Painting and glazing, 18 windows of 6 lights each, thick German glass, 108 lights, 17 by 30 inches, at $3, including painting and glazing 324 00 Cost of the cellar story 31, 446 20 BASEMENT STORY. Free stone — Plinth and sub-plinth all round the building — - 2,817 cubic feet of stone, or 156 tons, at $6 50 $1, 235 00 3,644 superficial feet, 363 days’ work, at $2 50 907 00 Eristic piers — 37 piers, 14 double and 23 single, each containing 240 cubic ft., or 16 tons, at $6 50 - r $104 413 superficial feet in each, 41 days’ work 102 206 Piers 37 X $7,622 00 Basement cornice — 3,753 cubic feet, or 250 tons, at $8 50 2, 125 00 3,910 superficial feet, 391 days’ work, at $2 50 977 00 The Extensions. 419 Ashler — 4,200 cubic feet of ashler between the piers, or 280 tons, at $6 50 $1, 820 00 6,800 superficial feet, 680 days’ work, at $2 50 1, 700 00 Guloci freize — 1,860 cubic feet, or 124 tons, at $6 50 806 00 1,300 superficial feet, 130 days’ work, at $2 50 325 00 Carving guloci with rosette ornament in the centre of eacli turn, 1,300 linear feet, at $10 13, 000 00 Bricklayers’ work — 1,500,000 bricks in walls, at $6 9, 000 00 700,000 bricks in arches, and filling in, at $6 4, 200 00 1,500 barrels of common lime, at $1 1, 500 00 2, 200 cartloads of sand, at $1 50 2, 467 00 700 barrels of hydraulic lime, at $2. . 1 , 400 00 Laying 2,200,000 bricks, 2,200 days’ work, at $2 25 4,950 00 Laborers — 7,500 days’ work, at $1 25 9, 375 00 Scaffolding — Outside scaffolding, 200 poles and ledgers, 39,600 superficial feet of plank, at $20 13, 000 00 Hoisting machines — Four of them, shears, blocks, ropes, and tackle for the whole building 3, 600 00 Lumber — 56,000 superficial feet, for centring, plank for doors, shutters, and architraves, at $25 1, 400 00 Ironmongery, locks, hinges, nails, and screws 600 00 Carpenters’ work — 600 days, at $1 50 900 00 Plasterers’ ivork and materials — 5,000 yards, at 40 cents _ . . 2, 000 00 Painting and glazing — 216 lights of French plate-glass, at $6 each 1, 296 00 1,200 yards of painting, (inside,) three coats, at 30 cents per yard . 360 00 Cast-iron window frames and sash, each window 5 by 10 feet, 12 lights, 17 by 30 inches; weight, 2,200 lbs. each: 18 windows, 39,600 lbs., at 4 cents 1, 584 00 Marble mantels — 10 mantels, at $75 750 00 Cost of the basement story $88, 899 00 PRINCIPAL STORY. Freestone — 2,817 cubic feet of stone, for panelled plinth course, or 156 tons, at $8 50 $1, 324 00 3,644 superficial feet plain face, 363 days’ work, at $2 50 907 00 Zocle — 24 sunk moulded panels under the pilasters, 390 days’ work, at $2 50 975 00 Pilasters — 38 bases and plinths, 15 cubic ft., or 1 ton each 247 00 20 days’ work on each base, at $2 50 1, 900 00 38 pilasters, 400 tons of stone, at $8 50 3, 400 00 8,930 superficial feet, 893 days’ work, at $2 50 2, 232 00 Capitals — 38 Corinthian capitals, 4 tons in each, at, $8 50 - . 1, 292 00 Carving 38 capitals, at $600 each 22, 800 00 Architrave — 124 tons of stone, at $8 50 1, 054 00 3,920 superficial feet plain face, beds and joints, 329 days’ work, at $2 50 822 00 Regula moulded on architrave, 390 feet linear, 300 days’ work, at $2 50 750 00 Freize — 62 tons of stone in freize, at $6 50 403 00 1,760 superficial feet plain face, beds and joints, 276 days’ work, at $2 50 690 00 Entablature — 5,145 cubic feet, or 343 tons, at $8 50 2, 915 00 Bed-mould, 274 days’ work, at $2 50 685 00 Carving modillions — 212 modillions, 20 days’ work on each, at $4 per day 16,960 00 420 Documentary History of the Capitol. Entablature — Continued. Corona and cymatium, 5,448 superficial feet, or 544 days’ work, at $2 50 $1, 360 00 Balustrade — Plinth and cornice, of balustrade, 3,900 cubic feet, or 260 tons, at $6 50 1, 690 00 160 stone balusters, at $40 each, including stone 6,400 00 24 panelled pedestals, 2,040 cubic feet, or 136 tons, at $8 50 1, 156 00 Sinking and moulding 24 panels in the pedestals, between the bal- usters, 390 days’ work, at $2 50 975 00 Ashler — Ashler between the pilasters, 16,340 cubic feet, or 1,090 tons, at $6 50 7,085 00 24,624 superficial feet, 2,462 days’ work, at $2 50 6, 155 00 1,100 barrels of hydraulic lime, for setting cut stone, at $2 2, 200 00 Bricklayers’ work — 1,300,000 bricks in outside and inside walls, at $6 7, 800 00 1,300 days’ work, at $2 25 2, 925 00 700 barrels common lime, at, $1 700 00 1,800 cartloads of sand, at $1 50 2, 700 00 Laborers — 30 laborers, 10,000 days’ work, at $1 25 12,500 00 Scaffolding — Scaffolding on the inside, poles, ledgers, 60,000 superficial feet, including galleries, doors, inside shutters, at $30 1,800 00 Carpenters' work — 1,200 days’ work, at $1 50 1,800 00 Plasterers’ work, and materials — 7,500 yards of plain plastering, in walls and ceilings, at 40 cents per yard, including materials 3, 000 00 4,258 linear feet of plain stucco cornice, girt 3 feet, at 25 cents per foot 1,064 00 Painting and glazing — Inside doors, shutters, galleries, skylights, &c., 2,000 yards, at 40 cents 800 00 Glass, 324 lights of glass in the principal and attic windows, best French plate, at $6 per light 1, 944 00 1,536 lights of thick German glass, for skylights, 12 by 18 inches, at $2 3, 072 00 Cast iron — 18 window frames and sash, each 5 by 10 feet; weight of each 2,200 lbs., at 4 cents, $88x18 1, 584 00 18 attic story window frames and sash, each 5 by 5 feet; weight of each 1,100 lbs., at 4 cents, $44x18 . 792 00 20 cast-iron columns, each 16 inches in diameter, and 12 feet in height, including base and capital; weight 1 ton, at 4 cts 1, 600 00 Roof — Principal rafters, girders, queen posts, braces, upright and hori- zontal, according to the accompanying detailed drawing; each principal weighs 12 tons, at $80 per ton, $960x7 principals 6, 720 00 1,092 bolts with heads, nuts and screws, washers, &c., at 50 cents.. 546 00 Blacksmith — Blacksmith’s work in filing and fitting the trusses together, 200 days’ work, at $2 400 00 Copper for roof — 2,000 sheets, size 30 by 60 in.; weight of each sheet 14 lbs. — 28,000 lbs., at 30 cents 8, 400 00 Workmanship in grooving and putting down, including flaps, solder, nails, &c., at 25 cents per sheet 500 00 Purlins and sheathing plank under copper, 54,000 superficial feet, at $30 1, 620 00 Marble mantels — 10 mantels, with hearth, &c., complete, at $80 800 00 Painting — Painting the outside of the stone work of the building, 7,000 yards, at 40 cents 2, 800 00 Cost of the principal story 152, 444 00 The Extensions. 421 RECAPITULATION. Cellar story Basement story Principal story Superintendence - $31,446 20 88, 899 00 152. 444 00 10, 000 00 Total cost 282, 789 20 William Strickland, Architect. [House proceedings of Mar. 25, lx+4: Congressional Globe, 28-1, p. 432.] On motion of Mr. Owen, Resolved, That the Committee on Public Buildings inquire into the expediency, and the cost of so enlarging and fitting up the room now occupied as a library, as to adapt it for a chamber of repre- sentatives, with a view of removing thither, at the next session, the sittings of Congress. [House of Representatives. Rep. No. 510, 28th Congress, 1st session. Hall of Representatives. May 24, 1844. — Read, and laid upon the table.] Mr. Pratt, from the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, submitted the following report: The Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, to whom was referred the fol- lowing resolution, of March 25th, 1844: “That the Committee on Public Buildings inquire into the expediency and the cost of so enlarging and fitting up the room now occupied as a library, as to adapt it for a Chamber of Representatives, with a view of removing thither at the next session the sittings of this House,” report: That they have given the subject of this resolution their close and careful consid- eration; and as it has at various times occupied the attention of members for years past, and has been thought by many that a change could be made for the better, and having particular reference to the defects of the sound in this hall, the committee have deemed it proper, in order to arrive at a correct conclusion, to request the employment of a skillful architect for that, purpose, to aid them in the investigation; whose plans, report, and estimates are herewith submitted, together with the report of the Colonel of the Corps of Topographical Engineers. From these estimates and diagrams, which are now placed in. the room of the committee, and from their view of the cost, which is $55,000, the committee resolve that any modification of the library-room, so as to adapt it for a Chamber of Repre- sentatives, is inexpedient; and beg to be discharged from any further consideration of the subject. War Department, April 25 , 1844 . Sir: In answer to your letter of the 3d instant, I transmit, herewith, a report of the Colonel of the Corps of Topographical Engineers, containing estimates and dia- grams for altering the library-room of the Capitol, according to the views of the Committee on Public Buildings, as indicated in your communication. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Wm. Wilkins, Secretary of War. Hon. Z. Pratt, Chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings. 422 Documentary History of the Capitol. Bureau op Topographical Engineers, Washington , April 25 , 1844- Sir: I have the honor to submit the following report, in reply to the letter from the Hon. Z. Pratt of the 3d instant. It may be proper to remark, that, in the judgment of this office, the only plan in which usefulness, proper accommodations, and architectural beauties and consistency are combined, by which an alteration for the purposes desired can be made, is the one submitted from this office with the report of the 6th January last. And in this opinion I am fully sustained by the judgment of Mr. Strickland, and by the many gentlemen of taste and architectural acquirement, by whom the plan had been previously examined. Although not expressed in that report, it was yet contem- plated, and so explained in conversation, as among its consequences, that the present hall would eventually become the library-room, and the present library be turned into additional committee-rooms for the use of the Senate. But the letter of Mr. Pratt calls for “an examination into the practicability of modifying the present building to meet the exigency, and particularly to a modifica- tion of the present library-room.” Some years since, when this subject was matter of conversation between the Hon. Mr. Preston, of the joint library committee, and myself, this very plan of modifying the library-room was examined into, and opinions given against it, as well from the inadequacy of the modification when made, as from the conviction that it would be unsafe. To meet, however, the demand of the letter of Mr. Pratt, a new and critical examination of the building has been made. All the window-sills and key stones of the heads of the windows are found sinking and cracked; the wall of the library-room front is cracked in many places, and has lost its perpendicularity by about four inches at the top. No fears of its durability in its present condition are entertained; but it is doubtful if it would be safe under the additional weight which the modification of this room would require to meet the view's of the committee. But, with the view' of having the best advice on a subject of so much importance, Mr. Strickland was invited, with your approbation, again to visit our city, and to make the matter of this modification the subject of special examination. His report is herewith submitted, together with the drawings necessary to understand it. He has made an estimate on the supposition that the w'ork below' the floor will sustain the necessary superstructure. He doubts, however, the sufficiency of this, and thinks, if the alteration be authorized, that the work to sustain the superstructure must commence as low down as the foundations of the present buildings. This would much increase the cost beyond the estimate. He also doubts the adequacy of the qtresent walls to sustain the thrust of the new roof. It will readily be perceived that it cannot be said what additional expenditure will be requisite to counteract this apprehension. The estimate, therefore, must be received under the restriction that it does not contemplate, as it cannot well anticipate, the cost of remedies for these defects in the library-room, in reference to its ability to sustain the proposed modification. I am also authorized by Air. Strickland to say that he fully unites with me in the opinion that the plan of modifying the library-room as proposed is bad in itself, and its safety very doubtful. Very respectfully, sir, your obedient servant, J. J. Abert, Col. Corps Top. Engineers. Hon. Wm. Wilkins, Secretary of War. Washington, April 22, 1844- Sir: In conformity with your instructions that I should visit Washington, and examine into the practicability of modifying the present library-room of the Capitol, according with a proposed plan to adapt that room and its adjacent passages to the The Extensions. 423 purposes of a Chamber of Representatives, I have now the honor of reporting to you plans and estimates, exhibiting the effect of such an alteration in an architectural and mechanical point of view. 1st. You will perceive by the plan that the semi-circular wall, colored red , and marked A, A, A, must necessarily cross all the arches of the rooms in the basement story in a diagonal line with their axis of direction; and upon the supposition that this wall is to be founded on the top of these arches, it would contain, including the flat arch of the ceiling, or segmental dome, 275,000 bricks, which is about 1,100 tons of weight, including mortar; and if it is intended to found the wall on the solid earth, it would require upwards of 300,000 additional bricks, not including a total new arrangement of the walls of the basement and sub-basement stories. 2d. The span of the arched ceiling of the proposed design is 92 feet, with a rise of only 11 feet from the springing line to its apex, or base of the skylight. B, B, repre- sents in the section this flat arch, without any apparent means of forming a suffi- cient abutment of resistance, as the springing line is 5 feet above the level of the floor of the attic story, and its thrust, for nearly one third of the semi-circle, would be in the direction of the two open spaces, or courts, as they are termed in the pro- posed plan. This flat segment of a dome would contain 125,000 bricks, which is equal to the weight of 350 tons. I am of the opinion that so flat an arch with so great a span could not be con- structed to stand, without great danger, and even within any reasonable limits of adequate abutments. 3d. You will remark that, in the plan and section, the flues of the chimneys or stacks in the main wall of the library-room, marked C, C, C, would be cut off from the fireplaces of the basement stories, and a great portion of this wall would have to be taken down, (as it now stands at least 12 feet within the periphery of the wall contemplated in the proposed alteration;) and I cannot perceive how these stacks are to be disposed of, unless it is intended to let them stand in the chamber, under cover of some ornamental pier or column. 4th. The main flight of stone stairs leading from the gallery of the library to the committee and document rooms of the attic story, marked D, D, D, would have to be torn down, to make room for the entrance lobbies to the chamber, and, in its stead, two spiral stairways are proposed to be placed in the spandrils of the semi- circular wall, similar in size and in every other respect to that marked E, now leading from the south lobby of the centre building to the basement stories, which has, in an eminent degree, darkness and inconvenience, and are entirely unfit as approaches to the attic story. 5th. Those parts of the plan and section colored with light India ink, represent the situation of all the walls of the centre building facing the west, and surrounding the proposed position for the new chamber, as well as those of the basement under the library-room, and which form its entire support; and although I believe these walls to be strong enough to receive the weight of the persons of the members and auditory, 1 am decidedly aware that they would be incapable of sustaining the pressui’e of the semi-circular wall and arch of the proposed room, and that nothing short of found- ing them upon the solid earth should be entertained; — as this cannot be done with- out removing the principal interior walls of the lower stories and cellar, (or, in other words, taking them all out beneath the library floor,) and reconstructingmew forms of support, which would be attended with great expense; and even when this is done, the library-room and gallery space would afford but an inferior and circum- scribed area for the accommodation of the present number of members of the Chamber of Representatives, and the proposed form of room would, when executed, produce all the difficulties of speaking and hearing, which necessarily accompany rooms upon circular plans with arched ceilings. In conclusion, sir, from a thorough examination of this portion of the centre building, and comparing the plan of the 424 Documentary History of the Capitol. proposed modification with it, I am of the opinion that it would in no way be effec- tual or expedient to attempt to convert or adapt the present library-room into a Chamber of Representatives. I also subjoin an approximate estimate of the cost of tearing down the library and the division walls of the basement stories, together with the roof, and of construct- ing others according with the proposed plan of modification, viz: Laborers’ work in removing walls, arches, stairway, and roof $4, 000 Excavation, and building up new foundations and walls in the cellar and basements 11,800 Bricks and workmanship from the floor of the proposed chamber, including the arched ceiling 6, 500 Constructing a new roof; plumbers’ work, &e 5, 000 Carpenters, lumber, centring, scaffolding, &c - . 10,000 Plastering work and materials - 4, 700 Painting and glazing 3, 500 Blacksmiths’ work in roof, in banding and keying up the flat arch 1, 500 Stone and workmanship in circular stairways, sills, architraves, &c 5,000 52, 000 Add for contingencies, 7 per cent 3, 640 55, 640 Respectfully submitted, by your obedient servant, William Strickland, Architect. To Colonel J. J. Abert, Chief Topographical Engineer. The Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds report the following documents upon the alteration of the Capitol, and recommend their adoption, and that the plans be engraved. Letter from the Secretary of War, transmitting a report of the Colonel of the Corps of Topographical Engineers, with estimates and plans, for the alteration of the Capitol, &c. War Department, January S, 1844. Sir: In compliance with a resolution of the House of Representatives of the 1st of March last, requiring the Secretary of War “to cause a plan and estimates to be prepared at the Topographical Bureau, or otherwise within his department, and laid before Congress at its next session, for a room or apartment in the Capitol, or to be added thereto, for the better accommodation of the sittings of the House of Repre- sentatives,” I respectfully transmit, herewith, a report of the colonel of the corps of topographical engineers, with estimates and plans, for the alterations deemed neces- sary and proper. , Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. Porter. Hon. J. W. Jones, Speaker of the House of Representatives. * * [House of Representatives, Thirtieth Congress, second session. Report No. 90, Public buildings, &c. Feb. 13, 1849. — Laid upon the table.] Mr. John W. Houston, from the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, made the following report: The Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, beg leave to report that soon after the appointment and organiziation of the committee in the present Congress, The Extensions. 425 the condition of the capitol, the President’s house, and the various public buildings belonging to the United States in the District of Columbia, and the improvements required in the mode of heating and ventilating the former, for the health and com- fort of the members of Congress, induced your committee to call to their assistance an experienced and enlightened architect, to make a complete and thorough exam- ination of the same, and to inform the committee what repairs, alterations and improvements 'were required, and the probable expense of making them; and for this purpose, Mr. C. B. Cluskey was authorized by the committee to make the nec- essary survey, who immediately entered upon the discharge of the duties assigned him, with zeal and ability, and in the course of a few months submitted to the com- mittee the following report, as the result of his investigations, which the committee beg leave to lay before the House of Representatives, as a part of this their report. Mr. Cluskey is a professional and practical architect of established reputation, and as his minute and thorough survey of the various public buildings above mentioned, and his valuable scientific suggestions as to the numerous arid important repairs, alterations and improvements indispensably necessary in them, are such as will speak for themselves without any special notice or commendation from the com- mittee, they will content themselves with the submission of the same without further comment. Washington, July 26, 1848. Gentlemen: In compliance with your instructions of the 24th of January last, I have the honor to report the condition of the public buildings and their appurte- nances in this district, with such other information relating thereto as I believe to be important for the consideration of the committee. My examination embraces the capitol, the President’s house, the war, navy, state, treasury, patent office and post office buildings; and the estimates hereunto annexed are for such repairs as are indispensable to their protection. The Capitol. This edifice, which should compare with any other of like character in the world, and which I have examined in every particular, is, in many respects, very defective, and its general condition is very bad. It will require not only considerable repairs to protect it from dilapidation, but such improvements in heating and ventilating as will render it more healthy, and better adapted to the purposes for which it is intended. Its perishable condition, and the settlements and fractures throughout, are mainly attributable to the material (freestone, in part, of an indifferent quality) used in the construction of its external walls. This stone will, in a dry state, absorb from four to five pounds of water to the cubic foot, and, consequently, is not of sufficient den- sity to resist the pressure of such a superstructure; moreover, a considerable portion of it is friable; hence it is that parts of it will be found mouldering away by the action of the weather. Nor is this the only evil that results from its absorbing properties, but the continual dampness which it creates throughout the entire structure renders not only fire at all season indispensably necessary for the protection of the books and papers therein deposited, and the comparative health of those whose official duties require their attendance in it during business hours, but the expense of an external coating of oil paint at least once in every ten years to protect it. I will now proceed to state the repairs and improvements essentially necessary, commencing with those of the most importance. The base proper of the main building, which is now in three courses of about twelve inches each on the face, and is very much dilapidated, measuring from the internal angle on the north, formed by the western projection, to the internal angle on the south, (except that part protected by the eastern portico,) six hundred and 426 Documentary History of the Capitol. ten (610) feet six (6) inches lineal, should be cut out and replaced with granite, in two courses of eighteen (18) inches each on the face; the bottom course to be twelve inches and the top course seventeen inches thick; the latter to be worked with a wash between the piers, in the same manner as the old work, and firmly secured with iron cramps to the walls. Although the base of the western projection is not so much dilapidated as that of the main building, in order to guard against further defects on the north, south and west, a new one should be substituted, (measuring three hundred and two (302) feet lineal, ) by cutting out, in the manner before stated, from the line of pavement within the terrace to the under edge of the basement window sills, and replacing with granite in two courses of not less than twelve inches thick, projecting three inches from the face of the wall above; the top course to be champhered one-half of an inch in the three inches. The granite to be from the Baltimore quarries, and of the very best quality. For the better security of this projection, which has settled and is more fractured than any other part of the building, I would recommend that an excavation be made on the west, as low as the foundation, of the form shown on the diagram marked A, and that it be built up with solid masonry, laid in cement in the best possible manner. The whole of the defective and broken stone, from the base to the top of the parapet and within it, including the base of the dome, which is also very much fractured, should then be carefully cut out, commencing at the top, (proper movable scaffolds being first prepared for the purpose,) and replaced with stone of the same kind, but of a select quality. It will also be necessary to rake out all the defective joints, and cut out all blemishes created by the oxide of iron — the vacuum to be carefully filled with mastic — and the whole then painted with two coats of Emerson’s patent paint for stone covering. The repairing of this stone work is an important matter, and should be executed with the greatest care, as it will not only give durability to the entire structure, but a new and perfect appear- ance. The plastering, also, of the walls and ceilings throughout require extensive repairs, which should be carefully done, observing to cut out the fractured parts to the brick work and saturate the walls well with water before replacing it; for, if executed in any other manner, the patching will not stand. The whole of the ceil- ings and cornices (the latter being first repaired) should then be whitened with a preparation of size and the walls painted stone color, in oil. And here would I remark that the walls of the passages have been very much abused by the laborers, who are employed to carry wood to the committee rooms. They pile the wood against the walls above the top of the boxes, which are sufficiently large to hold all that is necessary. This should not he tolerated, for there is no greater eye-sore in a building than a broken wall; nor is there anything more difficult to repair properly. In fact, a wall once broken cannot be repaired to look as well as it did at first. The flooring of the passages communicating with those committee rooms of the Senate and House situated on the upper floor, and which are now paved with brick, are in a very bad condition, as well as creating a continual dust; they should, there- fore, be taken up and relaid with Baltimore or Philadelphia flagging. I would also recommend the taking up of all the free-stone flagging from the floors of the passages and vestibules, leading from the rotunda to the Senate and the House, and the relaying of them with white marble. This material absorbs very little, if any, moisture, and presents a refrigerating surface in warm weather, whilst the free-stone absorbs considerable, and gives it out with the least change of tem- perature, thereby impairing, in addition to the dust it creates when in a dry state, the purity of the atmosphere. The flagging thus taken from the passages and vesti- bules could lie used in the passage floors of the western projection, basement story, where a large portion of the flagging has mouldered away, and will require to be taken up and relaid anew. The Extensions. 427 It will be seen, from an examination of the rotten wood in the committee room which I have taken from various parts of the roof, (particularly over the Senate chamber and eastern portico,) that the seeds of decay prevail in it to a considerable extent. It should, therefore, be taken out as soon as practicable, which can be done without interfering with the business arrangements of Congress. The copper work, too, requires general and extensive repairs, especially the covering of the dome and eastern jDortico. The latter I would recommend to be stripped entirely, and cov- ered anew. I have also to remark, in reference to the roofs, that they have been very much abused and injured by persons having repairs to make about that part of the build- ing, particularly the chimneys, many of which are fractured; and nearly all are surmounted with cowls, of every plan that the human imagination is capable of con- ceiving, and are put up in the most slovenly and unworkmanlike manner. And to such an extent have these experiments been tried, that numbers of those self-acting machines are to be found stowed away under the roofs, and strewed about the valleys in every direction, whither they have been carried by the wind; and with them the bricks, mud, and other fixtures, with which they were secured(?). True, some of them are made on philosophical principles, and would answer a good purpose if properly placed; but the best plan that can be conceived would fail, if put up in the manner in which they have been. I find also that two chimneys have been recently carried out through the roof of the Senate wing. They are built of brick and covered with plaster, a material which should not have been used in an exposed situation, nor is it found in any other part of the original structure. Whether they were intended only as experimental shafts or not, by the projector, I am not prepared to say. They bear, however, that impress to my mind, for independent of the unsightly appearance they present, disfiguring the features of the building, they render no service that could not be accomplished through flues already in the walls, had an examination been made by an experienced and competent person. I find, too, that a quantity of brick work, in connexion with the cupola that lights the vestibule of the Senate, which was placed there to carry out properly, in part, the numerous flues of the fireplaces in that end of the building, as well as to resist the lateral pressure of the cupola which is of stone, has been removed, and for no apparent purpose but to use the material in some job work about the building, an act which should not have been tolerated by the superintendent. Two of these flues have also been cut into and left open, exhibiting the greatest carelessness, for they might be the destruction of the building, should the adjoining ones get on fire, and a portion of the burning matter from them pass down through these flues and the openings thus made in them to the floor, where there is sufficient wood, in connex- ion with the ceiling and roof of the Senate chamber, to make the result more than questionable. Public buildings have been destroyed from causes less apparent. And here I would remark that, whilst on my examination, and in company with Captain Dunnington, chief of the police of the capitol, I found one of the flues of the chim- neys on fire, throwing out large quantities of burning mass sufficient to have ignited the platforms which cover the valleys, and thence to have communicated with the wooden cupolas which light the library and the vestibules and passages in the Senate and House sides, which add greatly to the risk. It was, however, promptly attended to by Mr. Dunnington, who ordered buckets of water from below and had it extin- guished. This fact at once recommends the removal of such a risk. I would, therefore, in addition to other important considerations, advise the substitution of eight cast iron cupolas with iron sashes hung on pivots, i. e., for the three which light the library, the two which light the vestibule and stairway on the House side, the two which 428 Documentary II! story of the Capitol. light the vestibule and stairway on the Senate side, and the one which lights the hall of the House of Representatives. They will not only be durable and give more light to the interior, (as pilasters of iron would not occupy one-half the space which the wooden ones do at present) but by being cast hollow, together with the entabla- tures which they would support, and proper valves fixed on the inside, they would act, in part, at all seasons, as ventilators for the escape of the deleterious air with which the whole structure is filled; in cold weather by the heated air from the fur- naces ascending through them, and in hot weather by the action of the sun rarifving the column of air within them several degrees above the external air, and thereby creating a continual circulation and ascending current through distinct channels into the external atmosphere. Before proceeding to the repairs of the copper work, the whole of the chimneys should be overhauled, and cowles of the most approved plan placed permanently upon those only that are likely to be affected by eddies, created by bodies elevated above them, and the two chimneys to which 1 have alluded, over the Senate, taken down for the reasons I have assigned. The whole of the platforms which cover the valleys should next be taken up, and the trash of every description, bricks, mortar, pipes, planks, &c. removed. The valleys and flashings should then be carefully examined and repaired, observing to place a grating opposite to each, where the water empties into the heads, to stop any trash that may accumulate from passing down the conductors. The platforms should then be put down, and new ladders, such as are to the dome of the House and over the roof of the library, made and placed at such points as may be deemed necessary for examination and repairs hereafter. The wood work inside and out, including the doors to offices and vaults under the terrace, is suffering, and will require two coats of the best paint. Before that is done, however, it will be necessary to overhaul the whole of it; first, by a careful exami- nation of all the windows, and the refitting of them with new cords, pulleys, fasten- ings, &c., where necessary, and the repairing of all the doors, their fixtures and fastenings, as well as the bases to rooms and passages, and trimmings to doors and windows inside and out. The doors of the first and second floors should be painted buff, and the principal floor oak; the trimmings white, doors of offices stone color. There are sundry other repairs and alterations which would follow in the course of a general overhauling, such as the taking down of the stone work in the centre of the crypt which was placed there to support the statue of Washington, and which is of no use, and moreover, darkens and obstructs the line of communica- tion longitudinally and transversely. It can be used in the external repairs. Also the taking down of a portion of the ceiling of the eastern portico, which is now in a falling condition from the leaks in the roof, the repairing of defaced man- tels in several of the committee rooms, and such improvements in the formation of the fire places in these rooms as will render cowls to many of the chimneys altogether unnecessary; the clearing out of the trash in the entire basement not occupied by the furnaces, which tends, in connexion with other causes, to make the air within the building impure, and the paving of the floor with brick, whitewashing of all the walls, the improvement of all the gratings to the basement windows on the north, south and east, and the cutting out of others for the purpose of ventilating under the crypt. The flagging of the folding room and of the vestibule on the house side lead- ing to the galleries, the resetting and repairing of the flagging of the terrace, and of the flagging on the north, south, and east of the building, the resetting of the curb and the repairing of the pavement within the court yard on the north, south, and east, the raising of the footways across the court yard, from the eastern portico to the eastern square, which, in wet weather are impassible, the resetting of the curb and repairing of the pavement on the outside, from the northern gate around the eastern square to the southern gate, with sills and other improvements to two of the gates, the painting of the iron enclosure to Capitol square, and the pointing and repairing of the wall and coping on which it rests, the repairing of the stone work of the ter- race and cementing the arches with asphaltum so as to make them water proof, the The Extensions. 429 taking down and rebuilding of a part of the naval monument, together with the repairing of the flagging around it, and the resetting of the steps on the west, which have slipped from their position, the repairing of the stone gutters which convey the water from the fountains to the low grounds southwest, the putting in of sinktraps to the main sewers; and the cleaning out of all the courts, and relaying of the gutters and flagging within them, so as to carry off the water from the roofs effectively. * * * A resolution having passed the House inquiring into the practicability of changing the library into a hall for that branch of the government, I would most respectfully state that it is impracticable, for it could not be done without destroying other im- portant parts of the building, as it is not of sufficient dimensions; and even if it was, it could not be made a commodious apartment, as it would have a wrong aspect for such a purpose. The building can be added to at both ends, and in the centre on the east, and all the room that is required obtained without interfering with its gen- eral arrangement or architectural features. I omitted to state, in reference to the hall of the House, which is so badly adapted to public speaking — a perfect Babel of sounds — that by placing a glass ceiling at the springing of the dome, which would cut off a great part of the space above without obstructing the light, and by other means, it could be made a comparatively good room to speak in. The manner in which the air from the furnaces enters it at pres- ent tends also to increase the evil, passing, as it does, in columns from the apertures in the floor to the ceiling with increased velocity, separate currents are created, and the uniform density of the air thereby destroyed. Such agents would make the best constructed hall for public speaking defective, for the air, if not in a quiescent state, should move uniformly. I have also to remark, in reference to the library, that the light generally could be much improved, but more particularly on the west side, in the recesses where there are no windows, by increasing the apertures of the sky-lights at the line of ceiling from circles to ellipses. The stairways in the angles should also be altered; two are sufficient, for, by placing a light ornamental iron gallery at each end, in connexion W'ith those on the sides, a continuous communication would be formed around, and the walls at the ends, which now present a naked appearance, could be shelved for the reception of books, as also the space occupied by two of the staircases. * * * ESTIMATES. The capitol. To putting in a new granite base, and repairing the stone work of the entire structure $14, 843 21 To flagging the passages to the committee rooms, on the Senate and House sides, upper story 1, 140 56 To flagging passages of basement — western projection 682 32 To coppering in the new, the eastern portico, and repairs of copper work generally 2, 323 84 To taking down eight wooden cupolas, and substituting iron ones, as per report 5, 893 05 To assumed cost of repairs to wood work of roof, as there is no estimating the extent of the defective part 2, 000 00 To sundry repairs referred to in report 4, 386 14 To painting stone work externally, and wood work externally and inter- nally, and iron enclosure round the capitol 14, 456 11 To improving the hall of the House for speaking by a glass ceiling, and other fixtures 5,234 30 To heating and ventilating the hall of the House on the plan reported 9, 378 00 $60,337 53 * * * 430 Documentary History of the Capitol. These estimates are based on the best material and workmanship, and include architects’ commissions for superintendence. In conclusion, I have, in reference to the buildings generally, to remark, that so far as the character of the repairs and alterations which, from time to time have been going on, are evidences of the capacity of those who conduct them, there does not appear to be a superintendant in charge who is capable of directing the workmen. Moreover, the alterations and changes which have been made (to some of which I have already referred) should not have been made without the advice and under the supervision of an experienced architect. And I would further most respectfully state, that were the whole of the buildings under the control of a person possessing necessary qualifications, who would report annually to Congress the expenditure paid and required for repairs -in detail, it would be found that they would not cost one-half what they do at present, nor would the buildings be injured and disfigured in the manner to which I have already alluded. All of which is respectfully sub- mitted by Your obedient servant, C. B. Cluskey, Arch’t and Eng’r. To Hon. John W. Houston, and others, Committee on Public Buildings. [Senate proceedings of Feb. 25, 1850: Congressional Globe, 31 — 1, p. 416.] ENLARGEMENT OF THE CAPITOL. Mr. Pearce. Mr. President, I have been requested to present the memorial of Robert Mills, civil engineer and architect, asking an investigation of certain plans, models, and estimates made by him of improvements and additions to the Capitol. In moving the reference of this memorial, it is scarcely necessary for me here to suggest that, in the Senate chamber, we shall soon want more room, that the House of Rep- resentatives is not sufficiently large for the accommodation of all the members, while it is well known that the library is so cramped that many of the books cannot be arranged, and that they have to be put away in boxes. It is manifest that the Capitol requires enlargement I move the reference of this memorial to the Committee on Public Buildings. The memorial was so referred. [Senate. Rep. Com. No. 145. 31st Congress, 1st Session. In Senate of the United States. May 28, 1850. — Submitted, and ordered to be printed.] Mr. Hunter made the following report: The Committee on Public Buildings have had under consideration the memorial of Robert Mills, in relation to the enlargement of the Capitol, which was referred to them by the order of the Senate, and report thereon as follows: They have come to the conclusion that there is a necessity for the enlargement of the present building. A larger Senate chamber has become almost indispensable for the convenient transaction of further business. It is already too small for the present number of senators, and that number is increasing. Nor does it afford suffi- cient accommodation for spectators and citizens who desire to witness the proceed- ing of the Senate. The same may be said of the Hall of Representatives, which, besides being too small, has been proved by experience to be unfit for purposes of deliberation. The Supreme Court, too, requires a larger and more comfortable apartment in which to held its sessions. The library room is insufficient for the books which have been accumulated already, and without additional space it will be The Extension s. 431 impossible to make a proper disposition of the future additions which will be annu- ally made to the Congressional library. Nor have we rooms enough to afford even the various standing committees one apiece, it often happening that there is but one room to accommodate two committees. By the addition of two wings of a suitable size — one to the north, and one to the south of the present building — we may afford ample accommodations for the two houses of Congress and their officers, and also obtain the use of much of the existing building for the other purposes which have been indicated. The whole of the western projection of the Capitol, with some change in the interior of the building, may be devoted to the library. The present Hall of Representatives might be used for the exhibition of paintings and objects of art, and for the accommodation of visitors, many of whom throng the library room for other purposes than those of study. That room being thus relieved, the library would be used with more convenience and quiet for the purposes for which it was created. The present Senate chamber, with its offices, would accommodate the Supreme Court with all the room which would be necessary for the discharge of its functions, and furnish, perhaps, not more than enough for the comfortable despatch of public busi- ness. The room now occupied by the Supreme Court would probably be found suit- able and convenient for the various commissions which from time to time are created to decide claims arising under treaties, or it may be hereafter in other modes. Look- ing to these various objects, your committee have concluded to adopt a plan for the extension of the building originally suggested by the topographical bureau, but altered by Mr. Robert Mills, the memorialist, upon whose suggestions this committee are now reporting. This plan proposes to add a north wing, 100 feet north and south, and 200 feet east and west, forming equal proportions of 40 feet, and also a south wing of similar position and dimensions. Your committee recommend the plan of Mr. Mills just referred to, so far as the exterior, the position, and dimension of the wings are concerned; and they submit the whole report of Mr. Mills as a part of their report, and one which should be referred to the joint consideration of the committee hereafter proposed to lie appointed in the event that the two houses of Congress should authorize their committees to act jointly upon this subject. But as the interior arrangements concern both Houses, it seems proper that the plan for their arrangements should be determined upon jointly by- committees of the two Houses, and reported to them for their final action upon it. Your committee, there- fore, beg leave to submit the following resolution to the Senate for its adoption: Resolved, , That the 33d rule of the Senate be so amended as to insert in the clause providing for the appointment of a standing Committee on Public Buildings, after the word “members,” the words “who shall have power also.” Report on the extension of the Capitol of the United States , with plans; by Robert Mills , architect. City of Washington, May 1 , 1850 . Dear Sir: Your favor of the 3d instant was duly received, and at your request I have prepared the requisite drawings to exhibit “vertical and horizontal projections (sections,) and estimates, connected with the details of arrangement for an extension of the Capitol by north and south wings, showing the proposed change in the domes,” &c., and have the honor to submit the same for consideration. Drawing No. 2 presents the general plan of the entire building, with the proposed wings north and south, and relative position of the Senate chamber and House of Representatives, the Library and Supreme Court rooms, besides other accommoda- tions growing out of such extension of the Capitol. The extent of wings projected on this plan is as follows: North wing 100 feet north and south, by 200 feet east and west, forming equal projections of 60 feet east and 432 Documentary History of the Capitol. west from the line of the present building. This will afford ample room for the demands of each House, both in their halls of legislation and their offices and com- mittee rooms, on the same floor — an essential provision for facilitating the public business. The space allotted in each wing for the two halls is in the centre or axis of the Capitol, divided or separated from the present building by a spacious court, necessary for light and ventilation, both to the wings here and to meet; the same wants of the entrances, &c. north and south of the present building; thus, none of the rooms at these ends will be injured in usefulness by the annexation of the wings. The new Senate Chamber . — The dimensions given this room are equivalent to accom- modate one hundred senators at their separate desks. The general form of the chamber corresponds with the present one; the diameter, however, is increased from 75 feet, the present, to 90 feet, the proposed room, by a depth of 60 feet, besides the logia behind the president’s seat. The presiding officer’s seat is placed on the north side, or in the diameter of the room. The height of this chamber does not exceed that of the present chamber, but the curve of the ceiling is much flatter and better adapted to the speaking and hearing; in this way it will be a better speaking and hearing room, though larger than the present chamber. Ample room above this ceiling is provided for a thorough venti- lation; and a system of warming in winter, and cooling the atmosphere in summer, provided for below. The windows lighting this chamber are placed on the north and south; the last in the court, where the light can be softened equally with that on the north. This offence to the eye of senators now, who have to look to the east, where the win- dows are placed, will be done away with in the new chamber, looking as they will to the north. Beyond the logia, back of the president’s chair, you pass outside of the room into a spacious and lofty portico of 10 columns, gracing the northern fagadeof the build- ing. This portico is especially appropriated for senators, there being no access to it from without. There are four public entrances to this Senate wing, namely: 1st. The central one, leading through the centre or axis of the Capitol, across the grand rotundo, to the hall of the House of Representatives. 2d. The eastern entrance, by means of the colonnade on this front, which reaches from wing to wing, 360 feet long. 3d and 4th. By two grand stairways east and west. East and west of this, on the same floor, are eight rooms for the officers of the Senate; as inany above, and eighteen below, for committee rooms; in all thirty-two rooms, all made fire-proof, well lighted and ventilated. The floors of the wing buildings are on the same level with those in the present building. In giving the dimensions of these wings, (proposed for the accommodation of each chamber, ) I have assumed a spacious area, equal to 24,000 superficial feet for each wing, for the purpose of securing a sufficient number of rooms for the officers of each House on the same level with each hall, to facilitate the transaction of the pub- lic business. The present deficiency in such rooms is now severely felt, and the inconvenient location of many of the rooms properly complained of. In the House of Representatives, the space required for business rooms is much greater than required by the Senate, and this is endeavored to be met by the proposed extension of each wing. When we look from the north and the south upon the fagade of these wings, we will be satisfied that the extent assumed is necessary on these fronts for the architectural effect of the building. The drawing No. 6 will exhibit this effect, as also No. 7. Whether the present dome be altered or not, this extent of wing will be required to give the proper proportion to the building — (see No. 7, by comparison.) Hall of the House of Representatives . — In the plan this is located in the south wing, which corresponds in dimensions with the north wing. The same general accom- The Extensions. 433 modations are furnished here as in the other wing, before described. The dimen- sions of this hall, however, are greater, suited to the present and future demands of the House. The general form of this room is the same with the Senate chamber — the height of the ceiling the same — namely, 45 feet. The diameter of this hall is one hundred feet, its width 70 feet, capable of containing with comfort three hundred members. It is well lighted, north and south, and ventilated, and an equal tem- perature preserved, winter and summer, upon the most approved plan. The same number of rooms for offices and committees are provided in this wing as in the other, and the same number of public entrances within and without ; also a spacious portico to the south for the sole use of members, having no access but from the hall. Adjoining this hall is a spacious room for a House Library, capable of containing 50,000 volumes, or more; this space is obtained from the square recess of the present Hall of Representatives, and when taken off leaves a handsome room for public pur- poses. The communication with this library is by a gallery leading across the court from the centre of the hall, on the same floor. The internal communication with the rotundo, from this hall, will be outside of the columns of the present hall, which space will be enlarged by the removal of the present staircases leading up to the south galleries. The Congressional Library room. — In the plan the same position it holds now is pre- served, the space being greatly enlarged, occupying the whole of the area furnished by the western projection, which will give a room of 155 feet from north to south, by nearly 60 feet from east to west, and 45 feet high; a space which will accommo- date over 250,000 volumes, being capable, from its elevation, to have four tiers of alcoves. From the courts within, the means are provided to give light to the alcoves on each side. In connexion with this library room, it is proposed to bring in the aid of the cir- cular part of the present hall, where miscellaneous subjects of art, &c., now deposited in the library, may be removed to, and thus relieve the library room proper from the crowd of visitants who come here more for amusement than study. This would be a great relief to the studious, and to members from either House, coming here to collect information. The proposed new room, additional to the library, would make an admirable audience room, where works of art may be displayed to great advan- tage, and would relieve the House from applications of public bodies for its hall, as here would be a room which may be used for such special purposes. The new Supreme Court room. — When the Senate shall occupy its new chamber, the Supreme Court could be comfortably and elegantly accommodated in the present chamber. The members of this court have suffered much from the inconvenience of this room, and from its location, which has proved injurious to health. The death of some of our most talented jurists has been attributed to this location of the court-room; and it would be but common justice in Congress to provide better accommodations for its sittings, and an opportunity will be offered by the proposed plan. The room then (now occupied by the court) will be well adapted for the law library room, or any other public purpose. Drawing No. 2 B, presents a geometrical elevation of the entire front of the Capitol, with the proposed wings, showing the architectural effect of the jDlan of extending the Capitol. This drawing exhibits no change in the surmounting domes now on the building; but presents the simple addition of the wings. All the different details of the architecture of the present building are carried out around the wings; the por- ticoes north and south, ornamenting the fagade of the wings, are also shown in the drawings by their projection from each wing. Drawing No. 3 presents another elevation of the Capitol, with its wings attached, but in its surmounting domes entirely different from the present finish. H. Hep. 646 2S 434 Documentary History of the Capitol. The central dome assumes the architectural character of that crowning St. Peter’s Church, at Rome; St. Paul’s, London; the Church of the Invalids, Paris, and other like buildings. The elevation assumed for our dome is 210 feet, 70 feet higher than the present dome. The colonnade extending round and resting on the present base of this dome will, independent of its utility for prospect and light to rotundo, produce a grand effect, and will make a total change in the architectural effect of the Capitol. Drawing No. 4 presents a longitudinal section through the centre of the Capitol, including the wings proposed, passing through all the legislative halls, present and proposed, including the rotundo and embracing the architectural changes in all the surmounting domes, corresponding with elevation No. 3. This also shows the courts between the wings and present building; the form and elevation of the new and present halls, with their galleries, skylight, lanterns, &c. The total length of the Capitol, with its wings and porticoes, will be 580 feet. The drawings are so explanative of the general details of the buildings proposed, that further description seems unnecessary. Permit me to refer you accordingly to these drawings, for further particulars on the interior sectional arrangement of the entire building. Drawing No. 5 presents a more detailed and enlarged plan of the new Senate cham- ber, showing the arrangement of the desks of senators, the president’s and secretary’s desks, and the galleries for the audience in double tiers, with the reporters’ galleries. The outer circle in this chamber is described by a radius of 45 feet, making a diam- eter of 90 feet. The desks are all disposed within this circle, in parallel or concen- tric lines. The 1st or outer row, or section, will accommodate 28 desks, all separated by a pas- sage way; the 2d section, 22 desks; the 3d section, 18 desks; the 4th section, 16 desks; the 5th section, 12 desks; in all 96 desks. The width of 5 feet is given for each desk and chair. The width reserved for the central walk is 6 feet. The outer lobby, 8 feet in the clear. The area of this chamber equals 5,761 super- ficial feet. The area of the present Senate chamber equals 2,791 superficial feet — difference of superficial feet in favor of new chamber, nearly 3,000 feet. Then, if 2,791 superficial feet will accommodate 60 senators with the requisite free space, 5,761 superficial feet will provide for 123 senators, with the same privileges — (each senator requires 20 square feet.) This number multiplied into 123, the number of senators, gives 2,460 square feet; which deducted from the entire area of the room (5,761,) leaves 3,301 square feet for passages, lobbies, &c. I have thus, sir, presented a brief and general description of the accommodations furnished for the public business at the Capitol, by the extension of the same by wings north and south. The pilans, elevations, and sections submitted herewith, will per- hajDS suffice, at present, to explain the general character of the improvements con- templated, as time does not admit now of entering into those minute details which will be required before the work shall be carried into execution. Annexed are the estimates for the wings, and for completing the other improve- ments represented in drawing No. 3. To confirm the ground upon which the form, of room here presentad for the legisla- tive halls is recommended, I would respectfully submit a few facts from my own professional experience and that of eminent architects. The form given to our new halls, while they are in general the same as those at present occupied by the Senate and House, will more closely resemble that of the Chamber of Deputies , Paris , ( France, ) which is acknowledged to be an excellent room for the voice and the ear. Our present Hall of Representatives is in plan the exact counterpart of that of the Chamber of Deputies, but in elevation and section totally The Extensions. 435 different; and in this consist the general contrasts of the two rooms for speaking and hearing in. The Senate chamber, in its elevation, corresponds more with the French chamber, and partakes of the benefits of the latter in these respects. But our Senate chamber is not as perfect, still, in its proportions, as that of the Deputies; there are some acoustic defects in its construction, which would be corrected in the new chamber. Acoustic principles submitted. — Next to the circle or ellipsis, the horseshoe or semicircular form of room is the best for the voice and the ear, provided their elevation and curve of ceiling are corresponding in their due proportion. It is a principle in acoustics, that in the ratio of increase of consonant over dissonant echoes, is the strength and distinct- ness of the voice or sound uttered, both to speaker and hearer. Now, we know that in proportion to the number of regular sides in a room is the increase of consonant echoes ( or returns of the voice to the ear of the speaker in the same moment of time he utters the sound, ) and hence the circular room in practice is the most perfect, the semicircular less perfect, and the square or parallelogram, or irregular form, the most imperfect, in conveying the sound distinct to the ear. I had occasion to examine into the laws which goven sound at an early day in my professional practice, as I had advocated and introduced in my practice a differ- ent form of room for churches from that usually adopted. The first was in plan a complete circle, ninety feet in diameter, with a height only equal to the radius, reaching to the apex of the domical ceiling, which was a very fiat segment of a globe. This room with its galleries held four thousand persons, and with all this crowded assembly the voice was clear and distinct in the most distant parts of the room, let the speaker be where he may; the ear was not sensible of any echo; a multitude of consonant echoes were flowing down from the dome to every listening ear, however distant from the speaker. This building I erected in Philadelphia. The next church I designed was erected in Charleston, South Carolina; it was of the same size and form with the former, but, contrary to my instructions, the height of the dome was increased beyond the maximum point, and the result proved what I anticipated from the change — a sensible echo from loud speaking, though in a low tone not perceptible by the ear. (The first discovery of this echo was at the time a sale of the pews was about taking place in the room : when the auctioneer called out in a loud tone, “Come, gentlemen, let us proceed to business,” the reply of the echo was, “to business.” At another time, a preacher was holding forth his discourse in a loud tone, when his ear caught, at every stop of his voice, a repetition of the last word spoken; when, with a little warmth, he addressed the supposed offender of good manners in his usual high tone, reprehending him for a want of common decency to a stranger, but found him incorrigible, as the last word of the preacher still followed quick on his ear. The congregation smiled, and the preacher was con- founded, until the pastor of the church undeceived him and explained the cause of his complaint, remarking at the same time that it could only be remedied by lower- ing his voice to a key to suit that of the room. ) The Monumental church in Rich- mond (my next design) was of an octagon form, seventy feet in diameter, with a cir- cular dome; as also another, the Baptist church in Baltimore, eighty feet in diameter; both of which are favorable to the voice and ear, though the former is not equal to the circle in this respect. These are a few examples of circular and polygonal forms of rooms which I have erected, and which have proved the correctness of the theory I had adopted, that sound (the action of the voice) is subject to the same laws which govern light. To elucidate this principle I would take the liberty of referring you to two papers on this subject which I presented to the House of Representatives in 1830 and ’32, and published by its order, (Doc. No. 83, 1st sess. 21st Cong., and Doc. 495, 22d Cong., annexed,) applicable to the causes of the defects in speaking and hearing in the hall, and the means of lessening the evil. The principles there laid down are 436 Documentary History of the Capitol. applicable to all forms of rooms, and point out the cause why the Senate chamber is a better speaking and hearing room than the hall of the House, and why the Chamber of Deputies is better in these respects than either. In the larger plan, (No. 2, 1st series,) I have given the elliptical form to the new hall of the House, which is that adopted for the hall erected for the first Congress, which sat in Washington in 1800. This room was found so favorable for the action of the voice in speaking and hearing, that, when the permanent hall (the first being but a temporary building) was ordered to be erected, Mr. Jefferson, who was charged with the selection of the plan, chose the same form for the new hall; and it was accordingly erected and finished in this general form, differing a little from the orig- inal, as will be seen by reference to the small plan No. 3, (new series, ) being a square bounded by two semicircles. This did not prove as good a speaking and hearing room as the former, owing to its domical ceiling being so much higher, and owing also to the side walls being screened by a colonnade formed of as large columns as now adorn the present hall: still, with all these drawbacks, it proved satisfactory to the mem- bers, and no serious complaints were made of the room during the time it was occu- pied by the House, which ceased in 1814, when it was burnt by the British. In 1816 Congress resolved to rebuild the Capitol, aud the President, in selecting plans, adopted the present form of the hall of the House, by the recommendation of the architect, B. H. Latrobe, esq., who arranged and built the former hall; a gentle- man of transcendent talents, of high scientific attainments, and perfectly master of his profession. Mr. Jefferson appreciated the talents of Mr. Latrobe by appointing him architect of the Capitol. I was then pursuing my studies at Washington, when Mr. Jefferson advised me to enter the office of Mr. Latrobe, and recommended me to this gentleman. This I did. Will you permit me here, sir, to do justice to a faithful officer of the government, in saying that the whole Union is indebted to Mr. Latrobe for introducing a correct taste in architecture into our country, at a period when but little was known here of the art. The government lost the services of a valuable citi- zen when it accepted of his resignation, for there are many defects in the architecture of the Capitol, which, had he been retained, would not have to be now noticed. But excuse, sir, this digression; it might go to justify Mr. Latrobe in noticing some of the errors in the original construction of the present hall, which, as he left the superin- tendence of the work before the hall was finished, might have been overlooked by his successor. Mr. L. was fully justified in selecting the horse-shoe or semicircular form for the new hall, from the fact that when the French Chamber of Deputies resolved upon the erection of a new hall for debate, they appointed a committee composed of the most celebrated architects of France to inquire into the subject, and report upon the best form of a room for legislative business; and who, after examining the largest rooms in Paris, and the most celebrated buildings of antiquity, unanimously recommended the horse-shoe or semicircular form, surmounted by a very flat dome; which was accordingly executed, and has given every satisfaction. As I have stated before, the hall of the Chamber of Deputies is said to be one of the finest speaking and hearing rooms known. But the Chamber of Deputies was so plain a room that Mr. L., no doubt, thought from the success of the last hall he built, (the elliptical,) which was enriched by a splendid colonnade circling the room, that he might circle this new hall also with a similar colonnade; but at the result he must have been disappointed, if he ever saw the room after it was occupied by the House — for Mr. L. settled in New Orleans, where he deceased soon after, to the great loss of the profession. Though both of these halls had their walls fretted by a series of heavy columns and lofty domes, the ellipitical form had the advantage of the semicircular in the power of conveying sound, possessing over the other double the number of consonant echoes, from its double horse-shoe form. In the plan and construction of the present Senate chamber, Mr. Latrobe was more successful in providing a good speaking and hearing-room; and if we trace the cause The Extensions. 437 of this, it will be found to consist in the plainness of its walls and lovmess of its dome, (compared with the present Hall of Representatives,) comporting more with the proportions of the French Chamber of Deputies. Respectfully submitted. Robt. Mills, Architect. Hon. Jefferson Davis, Committee on Public Buildings, Senate U. S. Estimate No. 1. — For the extension of the Capitol, first on the icings north and south, upon upon plan No. 2 — 240 by 100 feet. For constructing the north wing, and completing the Senate chamber $450, 000 For constructing the south wing, and completing Hall of Rep- resentatives 450, 000 $900, 000 Altering and enlarging library rooms 75, 000 Two new cupolas 2, 000 Extension of the east colonnade, and west do 130, 000 Enlarging approaches to both Houses 2, 500 1, 109, 500 Altering and enlarging the grand central dome, as per drawing No. 3 $300, 000 Contingencies — scaffolding, and superintendence of the whole work 80, 000 Estimate No. 2. — For the extension of the Capitol icings, extent of each wing 200 feet by 100 feet. Foundations and cellar story $40, 000 Basement story 120, 000 Principal story 203,000 Contingencies, superintendence, scaffolding, &c 36, 000 Cost of north wing $399, 000 Cost of south wing 400, 000 Cost of both wings 799, 000 Alterations and enlargement of library room, and finishing do .. $75, 000 Enlargement of vestibule of Senate _ _ 5, 000 New library room to House of Representatives 15, 000 95, 000 894, 000 Extension of east colonnade 50, 000 Extension of west colonnade 80, 000 1,024, 000 Alterations of central dome, and enlarging the same agreeably to design. . $300, 000 Contingencies, superintendence, &c 30, 000 330, 000 438 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House proceedings of July 22, 1850: Congressional Globe, 31 — 1, p. 1425.] COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The Speaker laid before the House a message from the Senate: In Senate of the United States, May 28, 1S50. Ordered, That the Secretary inform the House of Representatives that the Senate has empowered the standing Committee on Public Buildings to act jointly with the committee on the same subject of the House of Representatives. Attest, Asbury Dickins, Secretary. Mr. Houston (scarcely heard in the confusion of the Hall) moved a concurrence on the part of the House in the resolution. He was understood to say, that the appoint- ment of a joint committee tvas desired for a particular purpose. He understood the object of the resolution to be to authorize the committee of the two Houses to con- sult together upon certain additions to the Capitol — involving the matter of additional accommodations to the Supreme Court, the House of Representatives, &c. As these contemplated improvements were upon a large scale, it was deemed desirable that the two committees should consult together, and act jointly. He hoped the resolu- tion would be concurred in. Mr. Richardson said a few words which it was not possible to hear, but which were understood to be in opposition to the resolution, and in general protest against these great projects for the improvements of the Capitol. He was opposed to the ivhole matter. Mr. Houston interposing, (and Mr. R. yielding the door, ) said he would state for the information of the gentleman from Illinois, [Mr. Richardson,] that the joint resolution did not contemplate any appropriation of money, or authorize the joint committee to make any contract. Its only object was to authorize the two commit- tees to sit together. But the result of their deliberation, whatever that might be, would await the action of the House. The resolution merely enabled the committees to sit jointly, as without such a resolution they could not do. Mr. Richardson said, he was perfectly aware of all that the gentleman from Dela- ware [Mr. Houston] had said. But he (Mr. R. ) had long understood what the practical operation of this mode of proceeding was. A joint committee would be appointed, the House would consider as committed to the recommendations of that committee, and appropriations would be made for the construction of these buildings. And this was about all that, the House would know about the matter. He alluded to the manner in which appropriations had been made for the Patent Office, and expressed the belief that very few gentlemen understood the extent to which the public money was to be appropriated. The appropriations had run up from thou- sands to hundreds of thousands. If gentlemen would come here with a plain and open proposition for the appropriations they wanted, he was sure that very few, if any members, would vote for the magnificent improvements which were contemplated. He was opposed to the whole system. The time might come when some of these gentlemen, about whose mileage so many complaints were made, might want the Capitol nearer to their own residences, and they would then give those gentlemen the benefit of that mileage which so much distressed them. He moved that the communication be laid upon the table. Mr. Woodward requested the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Richardson] to with- draw the motion. Mr. Richardson said he would do so. So the motion to lay on the table was withdrawn. Mr. Woodward said, he was in favor of the resolution. He was willing to do any- thing which would promote the project of a new Hall for the accommodation of this body. Efforts towards that object had been made during the last tw r enty years. He was willing and anxious to remove the impediments that existed to legislation in this The Extensions. 439 House. It was impossible for members to debate — it was impossible for them even to practice good manners here, because a member was not going to sit silent whilst another member was speaking, when he could not hear. He said, therefore, that this was an unmannerly Hall, and that order never could be maintained in it. Look at it! A stranger would suppose that at the time it was constructed, there was not a man in the nation, from the President down, who knew that there was in nature such a science as accoustics, and that surfaces reflected sounds. It was not a Hall — it was a cavern — a mammoth cave, in which men might speak in all parts, and be understood in none. It was constructed with a view to concentrate the voice of the member on the Speaker’s ear, leaving every one else deaf. Better that the members should be dumb too, unless a different Hall should be given to them. He believed that five times the cost of a new Hall would be saved to the country in five years. He believed that if the House had transacted its business in a building differently constructed, certain claims, the passage of which had given offence to some gentle- men, never would have passed without debate. This House legislated upon an amount of unjust claims in the course of five years, which would save to the Gov- ernment twice over the cost of constructing a suitable Hall. He would construct such a building, even if the cost were five millions of dollars. The country would be the gainers in money — it would be the gainers in the influence which this House would possess over the public mind — because he insisted that speaking here without the possibility of being heard, tended strongly to demoralize the House. The whole habit and bearing of the members would be improved, if they had a Hall in which it was possible to hear. He trusted the pecuniary consideration would have no influence in the decision of the question. He was astonished that the House should hesitate a moment about an expenditure for such a purpose. It would be better to expend any amount of money for a Hall in which the debates could be effectively heard. Men could not even keep their tempers here. They were obliged to get into a passion, in order to speak loud enough to be heard at all. And hence it was that that description of debate which was in the worst taste was that which generally engaged attention. He trusted that these two committees would be connected, if by so doing the great object to be attained could in any degree be promoted. Mr. White desired to be informed by the Speaker, whether this communication might not be informally laid aside. Mr. Woodward. I cannot hear a word the gentleman says — not one word, sir. Members in other parts of the Hall. We cannot hear a word. The Speaker. Conversation is too loud in the Hall. The gentleman from New York [Mr. White] will suspend his remarks until order has been restored. After the lapse of some time, Mr. White resumed. I understand that a resolution on this subject has been passed by the Senate. That resolution is not now before the House. This is a simple motion of concurrence in a resolution which lias not been presented. It seems to me that it would be proper to have the resolution before us before any action is taken. I do not know what the resolution contains. But 1 desire the Speaker to state whether the resolution may not be informally laid aside until such time as the reso- lution itself shall be before the House? Mr. Houston was understood to say, that all that was proposed to be done was, that the committee of the House should act in conjunction with the committee of the Senate. The Senate had passed a resolution to that effect, and this committee apprised the House of the fact. The simple proposition was, that the House should instruct its committee to act conjointly with the committee of the Senate. Mr. Thompson, of Mississippi. Is it a proposition to make this a joint committee, or is there some specific object upon which it is proposed to act? Mr. Houston. It is, as I understand, fora temporary purpose only. 440 Documentary History of the Capital. Mr. Thompson. What is that purpose? Mr. Houston referred to the remarks lie had already submitted, and said, that beyond the explanation there given, he could, he thought, say nothing calculated to give satisfaction to the gentleman from Mississippi, [Mr. Thompson.] Mr. White. I hope the resolution will be laid aside. The Speaker. The gentleman from New York [Mr. White] is entitled to the floor. The communication comes up in the regular order of business. By the unanimous consent of the House it can be laid aside informally. Mr. Houston objected. Mr. White then moved that the further consideration of the resolution be post- poned until Monday next. Mr. Stanton, of Tennessee, ( to the Chair. ) Is the motion debatable? The Speaker. It is not. The question, “Shall the consideration of the subject be postponed until Monday next?” was then taken, and decided in the negative — ayes 60, noes 70. So the House decided that the consideration of the subject should not be postponed. The question recurring on concurring in the resolution of the Senate — Mr. Stanton, of Tennessee, said, he could not see the objection to the passage of the resolution which seemed to have struck the minds of some members of the House. It was simply a proposition that the Committees on Public Buildings, of the House and of the Senate, should act conjointly. Surely the House did not, by con- curring in the resolution, commit itself to any proposition that might be submitted by the committee. Therefore, so far as the proposition itself was concerned, he could see no objection to its adoption, if it were anything good — nor even if it were anything bad. But if the object were such as had been represented here to-day, then he concurred entirely in the views which had been expressed by the gentleman from South Caro- lina, [Mr. Woodward.] He (Mr. S. ) thought that the opinion had long and gener- ally prevailed here, that this Chamber was unfit for the purpose for which it had been built; that it was necessary — absolutely and indispensably necessary — that a Hall should be constructed in which the public business could be conducted properly, and with facility. It was true — true to the letter — that persons sitting even in his (Mr. S.’s) seat, were altogether unable to hear anything of a large portion of the business before the House. If, for the purpose of hearing, he went into the area in front of the Clerk’s table, the Speaker, as it was his duty to do, called him to order. If he advanced a few paces into the aisle, to hear something of matters in which he felt a deep concern, there, also, he was called to order, as on numberless occasions he had been. Thus, he was in ignorance of much that was going on in the Hall; and he must continue to lie so, unless, by breaking the rule, he could take some position more favorable. He had a right to know all that was going on in the Hall. It was his constitutional privilege to hear, just as much as it was to speak; and it was the duty of this House to provide the means of hearing for all. He hoped, if the object of this resolution to unite the two committees w'as to facilitate the proposition to construct a new Hall, that it would be passed without difficulty or delay, as it must commend itself to the favorable consideration of the House. Mr. McLane, of Maryland, demanded the previous question, which was seconded, and the main question was ordered, being on the adoption of the following resolution moved by Mr. Houston: Resolved, That the House concur in the order of the Senate of the 28th of May, 1850, and that the committee on Public Buildings of the House be authorized to act in concert with the same committee of the Senate. The question was taken, and the resolution was agreed to. Mr. Gott moved to reconsider the vote and to lay that motion on the table. The question was taken, and decided in the affirmative. So the motion to reconsider was laid on the table. The Extensions. 441 [Senate procedings of September 19, 1850: Congressional Globe, 31 — 1, p. 1870-6,] CIVIL AND DIPLOMATIC APPROPRIATIONS. On the motion of Mr. Dickinson, the Senate proceeded to the consideration of the bill making appropriations for the civil and diplomatic expenses of the Government for the year ending the thirtieth of June, 1851, and for other purposes, which had been reported from the Committee of Finance with several amendments. * * * Mr. Davis, of Mississippi, offered the following, and it was agreed to: “For the extension of the Capitol by wings, according to such plans as may be adopted by the joint committee of both Houses of Congress $100,000 for each wing. This appropriation to be expended under the direction of the President of the United States, and he shall be authorized to appoint an architect to carry out the plan or plans which may be adopted as aforesaid.” Mr. Davis. The Senate Committee on Public Buildings have had this matter for some time under their consideration, and have inspected various plans of different architects. They have so far decided upon a plan as to enable them to make an estimate which they think will approach very nearly to the amount required. The Committee of the House of Representatives having acted with that of the Senate, and, not having attempted to decide upon the details, it has been left to the Joint Committee to decide hereafter upon the plan. The plan which is now before me has been exhibited in the Senate, and is perhaps the one which will be adopted. It is to extend the Capitol north and south by wings transversely to the axis of the Capitol, throwing the halls of the Senate and House of Representatives into the opposite wings. * * * Pending this amendment, the Senate adjourned. [Same, revised, as given in Congressional Globe, 31 — 1, Appendix, p, 1350.] EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL. Mr. Davis, of Mississippi. Mr. President, I am instructed by the Committee on Public Buildings to offer the following amendment: For the extension of the Capitol by wings, according to such plans as may be adopted by the joint committee of both Houses of Congress, $100,000 for each wing; this appropriation to be expended under the direction of the President of the United States; and he shall be authorized to appoint an architect to carry out the plan or plans which may be adopted as aforesaid. The Committee on Public Buildings of the Senate have considered this matter for some time. Various plans have been submitted to them by different architects. At one of the meetings they acted with part of the committee of the House, and they have so far decided upon a plan as to enable them to make an estimate. The com- mittee on the part, of the House, not having acted with that of the Senate, to enable them to decide finally upon a plan — not being prepared to act in detail — it has been left to the joint committee of the two Houses upon the public buildings. It remains hereafter with them to settle definitely upon a plan. The plan lying before me, which has been exhibited in the Senate and elsewhere, gives a general idea of that which the committee of the Senate would adopt. It is the extension, on the north and south, by wings transverse to the axis of the present building, throwing the Hall of Representatives and the Senate Chamber opposite each other, fronting upon an open court on the east front. The amendment was adopted. 442 Documentary History of the Capitol. [Senate proceedings of Sept. 23, 1850: Congressional Globe, 31 — 1, p. 1944.] The Senate having under consideration the Civil and Diplomatic bill for 1851 — Mr. Chase. I move now that the Senate nonconcur in the amendment making an appropriation for the extension of the Capitol building. Mr. Hunter. I move to strike out the word “ wing” and insert the word “addi- tion,” for the purpose of leaving the question open as to whether we shall make an addition or put on wings to the building. Mr. Davis, of Mississippi. There is no need of the word “addition” at all; for the striking out of the word “wing” will accomplish the Senator’s object. I have no objection to this amendment at all, and the only effect it will have will be to enlarge the sphere of inquiry of the committee when they come into joint action. I would say that plans for extending the wings only were submitted to the chairman of the committee, but understanding that different plans have been suggested, I am willing to leave out the word “wings,” in order to leave it optional whether we shall adopt the proposition for another building or for the extension of wings. Mr. Cass. I would suggest to the Senator from Virginia that he move to strike out all except the mere appropriation of §200,000 for the extension of the Capitol. Mr. Bright. I have a motion to make which will cover the whole, and that is to strike out the whole clause. The amendment of Mr. Hunter was agreed to. Mr. Chase asked for the yeas and nays on the question of concurring, and they were ordered. Mr. Rusk. I have no objection to voting §1,500,000 for the enlargement of the Capitol; but I desire to know, first, in what manner, in what place, and under whose direction it is to be expended. We are making an appropriation for a matter here which will cost ten times the amount appropriated, I have now doubt. Mr. Bright. I have but a single remark to make before 1 vote. I voted some two years ago for an appropriation of §50,000 to aid in the construction of the Patent Office, then estimated to cost some §300,000. It is admitted now, although the work has scarcely progressed eleven months, that it will cost some §1,100,000. Now, I do not intend to vote, as was said by the Senator from Texas, for the erection of further public buildings out of the public Treasury until I know something of the plan, and what is to be the cost of carrying out the measure. And if this appropriation shall be made, I will make this prophecy — that before the work is finished it will cost the Government a million and a half or two millions of dollars, unless it is differently managed from the other public buildings which have been put up here. Mr. Dickinson. I believe the Senator is mistaken in regard to the Patent Office. I understood the whole matter once, but it has passed out of my mind. I believe, however, that §150,000 was the estimate of the whole cost, though we shall not get off with that sum. Mr. Bright. I think I am not mistaken. I always double the estimates in these cases in my own mind. [Laughter.] When the cost was estimated at §150,000 I thought it safe to double the amount, and hence I made it in my own mind §300,000; and I am told now that it will cost §1,100,000. Mr. Davis, of Mississippi. The Committee on the Library have examined this mat- ter, at various times and in various plans, and we thought we had finally agreed on one which would enable us to make something like an estimate of the cost. The amount asked for was an estimate for the exterior of the building, as I stated when I introduced it. The cost of the interior was not discussed, still less decided upon, and it must vary as the interior shall be built. We thought, however, that to put up the building and covering, we had asked for as little as was necessary. I think the objection taken by the Senator is sound, so far as the distinct action of the com- mittee is concerned, and 1 am not sure that it is not sound altogether. If we had been able to get the Committee on Public Buildings of the House to act jointly with The Extensions. 443 us at an early period of the session, I think we might have presented a plan, with an estimate attached; but that we have been unable to do. The estimate which was made was upon wings which should furnish additional committee rooms, and two spacious chambers for the use of the Senate and House of Representatives, and I do not think, for the purposes of the estimate, the cost would be increased. The cost will be limited only by the degree of extension. And if this Union continues together, and this continues to be the seat of Government, I have no idea that any plan which may now be suggested will finally answer all the wants of the country. A very good architect, speaking of it a short time ago, said that we would have yet to cover the whole square with buildings, and I think it is likely. We see at least that this magnificent building, certainly very magnificent at the time it was con- structed, has now become too small, and if it be any object to preserve the lives of Senators, it is then an object to commence at an early period the extension of the Capitol. We have all felt the injurious effects of breathing the atmosphere infected as that of this Chamber becomes after a long session ; and since the debates of the Senate have become popular, everybody has witnessed how inadequate the present galleries are for the accommodation of visitors. By making an appropriation at this session, the foundation can be commenced during the recess, which will make prob- ably a difference of a year in the completion of the work. It is for the Senate to decide whether they will hazard the committee adopting an extravagant plan, or the postponement of the work. Mr. Cass. I know nothing as to the merits of the several plans proposed, but I think this to be the very worst building on the face of the earth for the purposes to which it is devoted, and I have no idea of voting for the erection of another like it. You can scarcely hear in this Chamber, and in the House you cannot hear at. all, while a large portion of the building is sacrificed and lost in winding stairways and dark corridors. 1 repeat, I think this to be the very worst building in the world for its purposes. Mr. Badger. I desire to say that although I was heartily in favor of the amend- ment as originally adopted, yet 1 shall vote against it, in the form in which it has been amended. The question was then taken on concurring, and resulted as follows: * * * So the amendment as amended was concurred in. [Senate proceedings of Sept. 25, 1850: Congressional Globe, 31 — 1, p. 1970.] ENLARGEMENT OF THE CAPITOL. The following resolution, submitted yesterday by Mr. Hunter, was considered, ordered to a third reading, and was read a third time and passed: Resolved, That the Committtee on Public Buildings be authorized to invite plans, accompanied by estimates, for the extension of the Capitol, and to allow a premium of $500 for the plan which may be adopted by the Committee on Public Buildings, acting jointly, of the two Houses of Congress, to be paid out of the contingent fund of the Senate. [House proceedings of Sept. 27, 1850: Congressional Globe, 31 — 1, p. 1986.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration the Senate amendments to the Civil and Diplomatic bill 1851 — The 35th amendment of the Senate. In page 35, after line 3, insert as follows: For the extension of the Capitol, according to such plan as may be adopted by the joint Committee on Public Buildings of both Houses of Congress, $200,000. This appropriation to be expended under the direction of the President of the United States, who shall be authorized to appoint an architect to carry out the plan or plans which may be adopted as aforesaid. 444 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Bayly aid, he was instructed by the Committee of Ways and Means to rec- ommend to the House not to concur in this amendment. Mr. Houston rose to address the Chairman. [Loud cries of “Question, question.”] Mr. Houston moved an amendment. The amendment to the amendment was rejected. The question recurred and was taken on concurring in the amendment of the Sen- ate, and it was non-concurred in. [House proceedings of Sept. 28, 1850: Congressional Globe, 31 — 1, p. 2022.] Mr. Bayly. The committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses on the bill making appropriations for the civil and diplomatic expenses of the Gov- ernment for the current fiscal year, have instructed me to make a report. I move that the House insist upon its disagreement to the 1st, 18th, 89th, 90th and 91st amendments of the Senate, and that another committee of conference be appointed, and on that motion I call the previous question. Mr. Vinton. I should be glad to know what the committee have done. I hope that the gentleman from Virginia [Mr. Bayly] will withdraw his demand for the previous question, and state what the action of the committee has been. Mr. Jones. The committee of the Senate have concurred in the report, and the Senate have insisted on their amendments. The report was read, as follows: The committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses on the bill (H. R. 334) making appropriations for the civil and diplomatic expenses of Government for the year ending the 30th of June, 1851, and for other purposes, hav- ing met, and after full and free conference have agreed to recommend and do recom- mend to the respective Houses as follows: * * * That the House agree to the 35th amendment of the Senate, with the following amendment: Strike out the said amendment, and in lieu thereof insert: “For the extension of the Capitol, according to such plan as may be approved by the President. of the United States, $100,000; to be expended under his direction by such architect as he may appoint to execute the same.” * * * Mr. Vinton. I suppose the question to be on agreeing to the report of the com- mittee of conference? The Speaker. The Chair understands the question to be presented by the report of the committee of conference, and by the motion of the gentleman from Virginia, [Mr. Bayly,] to be this: The first question will be on agreeing to the report of the committee of conference, which has been agreed to on the part of the Senate. If the report should be concurred in by the House, these amendments will be considered as having been disposed of; and the two Houses will then stand upon their disagree- ing votes on the three amendments designated by the gentleman from Virginia, [Mr. Bayly,] upon which the committee of conference could not agree. And the gentle- man from Virginia has moved that the House insist upon its disagreement to the amendments ot the Senate, and has asked for the appointment of another committee of conference. * * * The question was then taken on the demand for the previous question. There was a second, and the main question was ordered to be taken. (Which main question was, first, on agreeing to the report of the committee of conference, so far as regarded those amendments upon which the committee had agreed. ) Tlie Extension s. 445 The Speaker directed the amendments to be reported to the House, and said that as the reading would require some time, the Chair must, in advance, ask gentlemen to preserve order, so that the amendments might be understood. Cries of “Dispense with the reading.” In other quarters of the House the reading was insisted upon; and, after some con- versation, those amendments upon which the committee of conference had agreed were read. And the question being taken on agreeing to so much of the report, it was agreed to. [From the 1 ‘Act making Appropriations for the Civil and Diplomatic Expenses of the Government for the Year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and fifty-one, and for other Purposes,’ 7 approved Sept. 30, 1850. (Stats, at Large, v. 9, 538.)] “ For the extension of the Capitol, according to such plan as may be approved by the President of the United States, one hundred thousand dollars; to be expended under his direction, by such architect as he may appoint to execute the same. ’ ’ [Advertisement for plans for the Capitol Extension. (From “ Daily National Intelligencer,” Wash- ington, D. C., Oct. 2 to Oct. 21, 1850, inclusive.)] ENLARGEMENT OF THE CAPITOL. The Committee on Public Buildings of the Senate, having been authorized by a resolution of that body, “to invite plans accompanied by estimates for the exten- sion of the Capitol, and to allow a premium of five hundred dollars for the plan which may be adopted by the Committees on Public Buildings of the two Houses of Congress,” accordingly invite such plans and estimates, to be delivered to the Secretary of the Senate on or before the first day of December next. It is required that these plans and estimates shall provide for the extension of the Capitol, either by additional wings, to be placed on the north and south of the present building, or by the erection of a separate and distinct building, within the enclosure to the east of the building. The committee do not desire to prescribe any condition, that may restrain the free exercise of architectural taste and judgment, but they would prefer, that whatever plan may be proposed, may have such reference to and correspondence with the present building as to preserve the general symmetry of the entire structure, when complete. Although but one plan can be adopted, the committee reserve to them- selves the right to form such plan by the adoption of parts of different plans sub- mitted, should such course he found necessary; in which event, the committee also reserve to themselves the right to divide or apportion, according to their own judg- ment, the amount of premium to be awarded for the whole plan, to those whose plans may be in part adopted, according to the relative importance and merit of each part adopted. R. M. T. Hunter, Jefferson Davis, John LI. Clarke, Committee of the Senate on Public Buildings. Senate Chamber, 30th September, 1850. N. B. — The several daily papers published at Washington will please insert the above daily for two weeks, and send their accounts to the Secretary of the Senate. oct 2 — d2w. 446 Documentary History of the Capitol. [Senate. Rep. Com. No. 273, Thirty-first Congress, second session. In Senate of the United States. February 8, 1851. — Submitted, and ordered to be printed.] Mr. Davis, of Mississippi, from the Committee on Public Buildings, made the fol- lowing report: The Committee of the Senate to whom was referred the subject of the enlargement of the Capitol building, report: That they have received and considered plans presented by many distinguished architects; and after an attentive study and patient investigation, in which they were aided by the explanations of each architect by whom plans were presented, have concluded to recommend the addition of wings, attached to the north and south ends of the Capitol, and placed at right-angles to its axis, as shown in the accompanying drawing. To answer the requirements of Congress without impairing the beauty, disturbing the harmony, or diminishing the effect of the noble structure our fathers erected, was a problem of extreme perplexity. It will be readily perceived that there must be much greater difficulty in devising a plan for the enlargement of a building to which additions were not originally contemplated, than in deciding upon one for an entirely new edifice. In the examination of the complicated question submitted to them, the committee have been governed by the following considerations: 1. The purpose for which Congress authorized the enlargement of the building. This being increased accommodation and better adaptation to the uses to which the edifice is applied, those considerations have been regarded as paramount to all others. The halls of legislation should be well suited to speaking and hearing, and be prop- erly arranged for lighting, heating, and ventilation; without these requisites the structure would fail in its primary object, and architectural beauty would but sharpen reproach. 2. To adhere, as closely as is compatible with the objects to be attained, to the architectural character and site of the original building, both of which are in a meas- ure rendered sacred by having been selected by the first President of the United States. After having adopted a plan for the building, General Washington fixed its location; and this was the initial point in laying out the plan of the city. The centre of the rotundo, before the addition of the western projection was made, was the centre of the building, and is the radiating point from which the avenues and four main streets diverge to the different parts of the city. It is, therefore, in the opinion of your committee, an important element in the choice of a plan for the extension of the Capitol, that the relation to its approaches and points of view should be main- tained, and this second addition to the building be made to restore to the rotundo the central position which it had in the original design. 3. Economy, or the lowest expenditure consistent with the objects proposed. This consideration, though last presented, is held to be not the least argument in favor of the plan proposed by your committee. By estimates submitted to them, it appears that the mode of enlarging by wings would not cost one-half of the sum which would be required for the plan of duplicating the Capitol, finished with the necessary connections. Guided by these considerations, the committee have adopted the mode of exten- sion represented in the accompanying plan, combined from various sources, espe- cially from the drawings submitted to the committee according to invitation publicly given. The parts so taken from these drawings, after modifications by the com- mittee, were put in the form presented, by Robert Mills, the architect in the employ- ment of the government. This plan secures the requisite accommodation in a compact and convenient form. The amount of light will be greater than in the plan of extension by duplicating the building. The wings will be so exposed on all sides to the external air, as to afford the most ready means of ventilation. Both wings will have an unobstructed The Extensions. 447 view to the east and the west — one having also an exposure to the north, and the other to the south. By retiring the wings, the heavy embankment will be avoided, which would be necessary if they were brought up to the line of the west front of the present building; whilst, on the other hand there would be no suchexcavation as would be required in the duplicate plan. The eastern park will be unmutilated, and its trees preserved. The centre of the rotundo, now the radiating point of the avenues and principal streets, will, by the proposed extension to the east, become the centre of the Capitol building. The defect of the eccentric position of the dome, as viewed from the north or south, will be remedied, and this prominent feature will appear securely adjusted on the structure, instead of pressing, with painful effect, on one side. The limit to which the present building may be increased in length, without impairing its archi- tectural effect, is believed to be within the space required for accommodation; but by receding the wings as is proposed, the apparent length of the building in a north and south direction will be diminished, and this objection against the plan of exten- sion by the prolongation of the present wings will be overcome. The architectural character of the present edifice, though it does not invite, is nevertheless such as to admit of additions; and it is believed that they may be made not only to harmonize with it, but to heighten its effect. In the plan proposed, it has been studiously sought to avoid interference with the original design. The beautiful east fagade will be preserved, and rendered not less imposing by the stronger light and shadow given by the proposed projections. The west front, which has become the principal one, will be improved by the addition of the porticoes of the wings: the north and south will each present to the view a- corresponding portico; and, the wings being brought into unity with the present building, an imposing architectural front will be offered to every line of approach. The committee have not attempted to settle the minute details of the interior; they have, however, pushed their inquiries so far as to be assured that all the accom- modation required may be certainly furnished by the proposed wings, they being attached to the present building so as to render every part of it available in con- nexion with the additions. The Chamber of the Senate and the Hall of the House of Representatives may be so arranged in the plan proposed, as to afford the neces- sary space for members, and galleries sufficient to contain any probable number of visitors, and to secure all the facilities for heating, lighting, ventilating, and hearing, which are attainable in such rooms. Nearly the whole of the projection of the west front may be appropriated to the congressional library, and the room will be thus exposed to the light and air on three sides, and increased in area nearly threefold. The desired accommodations for the Supreme Court and its officers may be obtained in the basement story of the north wing. The number of committee rooms which will be added is deemed quite sufficient for any anticipated want, as the number of com- mittees will not necessarily or probably increase with the increased number of sena- tors and representatives. The exterior of the present building was changed from the original design by increasing the height of the principal dome, and adding two of smaller size. It is proposed, as shown in the drawing, to restore, as far as may be, the classic beauty and simplicity of the first plan, by reducing the principal dome and removing the others. And, to break the long horizontal line of the roof by an elevation over each wing, through which the Chamber of the Senate and the Hall of Representatives may be lighted, the small domes may be substituted by any of the various modes of lighting from the roof without raising a prominent object above the building. In deciding upon a question so complicated and difficult, the committee have not hoped to reach a result which would be entirely free from objection; but only, by weighing the advantages and disadvantages against each other, to ascertain the mode which would most nearly conform to the considerations by which they were guided. 448 Documentary History of the Capitol. A diagram of the Capitol grounds and avenues of approach accompanies the drawing of the building, and the estimate for the plan herein proposed is appended to this report. Jeffn. Davis, John H. Clarke. FEBRUARY 7, 1851. Estimate for the extension of the Capitol wings. For constructing the north wing and completing the Senate Chamber. . . $425, 000 For constructing the south wing and completing Hall of Representatives. 450, 000 875, 000 Contingencies, superintending, scaffolding, &c 80, 000 955, 000 Altering and enlarging Congressional Library Room .- 75, 000 Two new attic cupolas 5, 000 Extension of east and west colonnade 130, 000 Four porticoes as in plan 120, 000 Enlarging entrances in both halls 6, 000 $1, 291, 000 Rob’t Mills, Architect. [Account of the laying of the corner stone of the South Wing of the Capitol Extension, July 4, 1851, in the handwriting of Daniel Webster, Secretary of State. (From “ Celebration of the One Hun- dredth Anniversary of the Laying of the Comer Stone of the Capitol of the United States,” by Gen- eral Duncan S. Walker, page 142. — Public document: 1896.)] On the morning of the first day of the seventy-sixth year of the Independence of the United States of America, in the city of Washington, being the 4th day of July, 1851, this stone, designed as the corner stone of the extension of the Capitol, accord- ing to a plan approved by the President, in pursuance of an act of Congress, was laid by Millard Fillmore, President of the United States, assisted by the Grand Master of the Masonic lodges, in the presence of many Members of Congress, of officers of the executive and judiciary departments, National, State, and District, of officers of the Army and Navy, the corporate authorities of this and neighboring cities, many associations, civil and military and Masonic, officers of the Smithsonian Institution and National Institute, professors of colleges and teachers of schools of the District with their students and pupils, and a vast concourse of people from places near and remote, including a few surviving gentlemen who witnessed the laying of the corner stone of the Capitol by President Washington on the 18th day of September, 1793. If it shall hereafter be the will of God that this structure shall fall from its base, that its foundation be upturned and this deposit brought to the eyes of men, be it then known that on this day the Union of the United States of America stands firm; that their Constitution still exists unimpaired and with all its original usefulness and glory; growing every day stronger and stronger in the affections of the great body of the American people and attracting more and more the admiration of the world. And all here assembled, whetner belonging to public life or to private life, with hearts devoutly thankful to Almighty God for the preservation of the liberty and happiness of the country, unite in sincere and fervent prayers that this deposit and the walls and arches, the domes and towers, the columns and entablatures, now to be erected over it, may endure forever! God save the United States of America! Daniel Webster, Secretary of State of the United States. CENTRAL EAST PORTICO. The Extensions. 449 [Mss.: Capitol Papers, Box 116, Patents and Miscellaneous Division, Office of the Secretary, Interior Department.] Architect’s Office, U. S. Capitol, Washington , I). C., July 29, 1851. To His Excellency, the President of the United States. Sir: In compliance with your request, I have the honor to submit to you the fol- lowing report embracing my views as to the best manner of executing the work of the extension of the United States Capitol. Several communications relating to this question have been referred to me by your Excellency, all of which I have read and duly considered, and in view of the various arguments which have been advanced on the subject, as well as of my own experi- ence in the execution of public works, I am decidedly of opinion that the contract system, with proper checks, penalties, and securities, would be far more advantageous to Government, than what is called the days-ivork system. In the one case each department of the work has a responsible head, whose inter- est it is to employ none but good workmen, and to use his best energies to execute his contract in a creditable manner, and with as little loss of time as possible, as he must naturally feel a pride in the work, as well as a pecuniary interest that could not be realized by any one acting in the simple capacity of foreman. By the other system none of the overseers have any direct interest in advancing the work, nor can they have anything like the pride in its execution that is felt by an honest and ambitious contractor. Another objection to the days-work system is the difficulty there is in obtaining good foremen. It is indispensable that those who superintend the several branches of mechanics be well skilled in their respective occupations; but such superintendents can rarely be found, as the talent that would fit a mechanic for such a post would make him a master in his particular art, and he would not be likely to abandon his business for a mere per diem allowance; I am therefore of opinion that the best mechanical talent and skill can only be obtained by putting the work out by contract. It may not be out of place for me to add strength to what I have here said, by bringing before you the experience of the Building Committee of the Girard College, as published in their report to the municipal authorities of Philadelphia. In their report of the year 1843 they say, The plan adopted by a former committee of executing the several portions of the building by contract, instead o£ employing workmen by the day has also been resorted to in the operations of the past year, and the result has satisfied the committee that by carrying out this system, wherever it is practicable, a large expenditure of money may be saved, and the work be equally well performed. In their report of 1845 in advising councils to put the remaining out buildings under contract they say, “that these works can be well and substantially constructed by contract, and with more advantage to the college fund than by the purchase of materials and the employment of workmen by the committee, is fully shown by tried experiment.” It should be here remarked, that the days-work system was pursued at the college for 8 years from its commencement, and that the contract system was resorted to mainly from considerations of economy. One of the papers referred to me by your Excellency consists of a petition numer- ously signed by citizens of the District of Columbia, praying that the work on the Capitol may be done by the day; — this jietition certainly demands a most respectful consideration, and if I could bring my own judgment to coincide with its views it would give me great pleasure, but 1 regret to say that the opinions 1 entertain on the subject are entirely different from those expressed by the petitioners, for reasons which I have already given. H. Rep. 040 •29 450 Documentary History of the Capitol . After considering the subject in all its bearings, and weighing the arguments which have been adduced both in favor and against contracts, 1 have come to the conclusion that the interests of Government would be promoted by inviting proposals for the work from all parts of the country, and putting it out by contract to the lowest responsible bidders, exacting in all cases the most unexceptionable securities, and investing the contracts with such checks, penalties and provisions as shall insure the execution of the work in a given time, and in the best possible manner. I therefore take the liberty to suggest that proposals be invited from mechanics and builders throughout the country for the whole, or any portion of the work, leaving it optional, after the bids come in, to accept offers for different parts of the buildings, or for the whole of each of the wings, as may be found most advantageous to Government. 1 am using every exertion to complete the plans and specifications at the earliest possible moment, and I hope to be ready by the middle of August. If it should be deemed advisable to adopt the course I have suggested it will be necessary to adver- tise about 30 days, which will bring in the bids about the middle of Sept.; in the mean time I propose to go on with the stonework by days-workmen, as it will be necessary to secure the banks from caving, and in any event it is desirable that the work should progress without interruption. We have very satisfactory bids for stone, lime, sand, and cement, and I am now testing the several specimens, preparatory to making a report to the Department of the Interior; we therefore require nothing at present but stone-masons; these, as I before remarked, may be employed by the day, under our general superintendent, and my own supervision, until the question in reference to the manner of doing the work shall have been decided, and a more permanent arrangement made for its execution. It will be necessary, before the specifications can be completed, to come to some conclusion as to what material the buildings shall be faced with. My own judgment is in favor of marble. The sand stone with which the present Capitol is faced, is a weak and friable material, wholly unfit for a public building; and granite is not suitable for architectural carving like that of the present building, I therefore recom- mend that the new buildings, above the sub-base, be faced with marble, as nearly white as can be obtained, and that the present structure be painted to imitate it. I propose to face the sub-base, which stands about 3 feet out of the ground, with heavy blocks of the lightest colored granite. I have the honor to remain your Excellency’s oh. servt. Tno. U. Walter, Architect, Extension of U. S. Capitol. Washington, July 29, 1851. Thomas U. Walter, Rel. to extension of the Capitol. Recommitted to Mr. Walter with a request that he will report the number of sub- divisions into which the work can be reduced, so as to enlarge the competition to the greatest extent. Alex. H. II. Stuart. [Mss.: Capitol Papers, Box 116, Patents and Miscellaneous Division, Office o£ the Secretary, Interior Department.] Architect’s Office, U. S. Capitol, Washington, Sep. 13, 1851. To His Excellency, the President of the United States. Sir: The communication I had the honor to address to you on the 29th of July, in reference to the manner of executing the work of the extension of the Capitol, The Extensions. 451 having been recommitted to me by the Hon. Secretary of the Interior, requesting me “to report the number of subdivisions into which the work can be reduced, so as to enlarge the competition to the greatest extent,” I respectfully proceed to comply with the request. As it has been deemed inexpedient to enter into contract for the whole work, it will not be necessary to put such portions of it under contract, at the present time, as will not be required during the ensuing year, as the roofing, the interior finish and decorations, the painting and glazing, floors, heating apparatus &c. ; I therefore recommend that such portions only as are required to be commenced during the coming year be contracted for; these will embrace the granite sub-basement, the marble and marble work of the exterior of the superstructure, the bricks, lime, sand, cement, and the lumber for centering. These portions of the work, especially the marble and granite will require extensive preparations; it will therefore be necessary to put them under contract before the close of the present season, so as to allow the contractors an opportunity to get a supply on the ground during the winter. I respectfully recommend that the work to be contracted for, be divided as follows; Granite work of sub-basement of both buildings, including materials, in one contract. Marble work of the entire exterior, including materials, also in one contract. Bricks by the thousand. Lime and cement by the barrel. Sand bv the bushel. Lumber for centering and scaffolding b} r the thousand feet. As no carpenter’s work will be required next season except centering and scaffold- ing, I propose to do it by the day, leaving the carpenter’s work of the buildings for future consideration. I also suggest that the Bricklayer’s work, and the blacksmith’s work be done by the day, as these portions of the building may be done as advantageously in this way as by contract. I consider it desirable that all themarblefor both buildings should come from the same quarry, so as to insure a uniformity of color; and I think the plan of uniting the workmanship and the material in the same contract decidedly preferable to having them separate, as it will then be the interest of thequarrymen to keep up the supply of material most needed, which is seldom done where there is no common interest. As we have a pattern for every feature of this part of the work, in the present building, in addition to the drawings, on which every line is shown, and full specifications of the manner of doing the work, its cost can as well be ascertained now, as when the work is done; I have therefore, in this view of the subject, recom- mended that a contract be made for the whole of the exterior marble work, leaving the marble for the interior to be done by the day, or by additional contracts, as may hereafter be deemed most advantageous to Government. The same reasons hold good in reference to the granite subbasement; I have there- fore suggested that this part of the work also, be done by contract. I have the honor to be your excellency’s ob. servt., Tho. U. Walter, Arclit. of the Extension of the U. S. Capitol. The above views of Mr. Walter meet my approbation. Alex. II. H. Stuart. Approved: Millard Fillmore. 452 Documentary History of the Capitol. [From the annual report of Alex. H. H. Stuart, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 29, 1851. (32—1, House Ex. Doc. No. 2, pt. 2, p. 511.)] EXTENSION OF CAPITOL. Since the adoption of the plan approved by you for the enlargement of the Capitol the work has been diligently prosecuted. The foundations of both wings are now nearly completed, and if suitable appro- priations be made by Congress at its approaching session no effort will be spared to push on the work with as much dispatch as may be consistent with its faithful execution. [From the second annual Message of President Millard Fillmore, Dec. 2, 1851. (32 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 2, pt. 1, p. 23.)] An act of Congress approved 30th September, 1850, contained a provision for the extension of the Capitol, according to such plan as might be approved by the Presi- dent, and appropriated one hundred thousand dollars to be expended under his direction, by such architect as he should appoint to execute the same. On examin- ing the various plans which had been submitted by different architects, in pursuance of an advertisement by a committee of the Senate, no one was found to be entirely satisfactory, and it was therefore deemed advisable to combine and adopt the advan- tages of several. The great object to be accomplished was to make such an addition as would afford ample and convenient halls for the deliberations of the two Houses of Congress, with sufficient accommodations for spectators, and suitable apartments for the committees and officers of the two branches of the Legislature. It was also desirable not to mar the harmony and beauty of the present structure, which, as a specimen of architec- ture, is so universally admired. Keeping these objects in view, I concluded to make the addition by wings, detached from the present building, yet connected with it by corridors. This mode of enlargement will leave the present Capitol uninjured, and afford great advantages for ventilation and the admission of light, and will enable the work to progress without interrupting the deliberations of Congress. To carry this plan into effect I have appointed an experienced and competent, architect. The corner-stone was laid on the 4th day of July last, with suitable ceremonies, since which time the work has advanced with commendable rapidity, and the foundations of both wings are now nearly complete. [House proceedings of Dec. 16, 1851: Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, p. 107.] THE WORKMEN ON THE CAPITOL. Mr. Florence. I ask the unanimous consent of the House to submit a resolution. It is known probably to the House, that a number of persons have been recently discharged from employment on the works at the Capitol now in propress of con- struction. I have been called upon by a number of these persons, and they desire me to present a resolution. The following is the resolution: Resolved, That the Committee on Public Buildings, or whichever committee may have charge of the subject, be requested to report forthwith a bill making further appropriations for the continu- ance of the work recently in progross for the extension of the Capitol buildings, in order that a large number of mechanics and workingmen, who have been deprived of work, and thereby their present means of subsistence, having been discharged a few days ago from that employment, may be again employed, it being exceedingly difficult at this inclement season of the year to obtain employment elsewhere in the city. The Extensions. 453 Mr. Clingman inquired of the Chair the order of business? The Speaker. The Chair has already announced that the unfinished business of yesterday is now in order. Any other business cannot intervene except by the unanimous consent of the House. The gentleman from Pennsylvania asks the unanimous consent to introduce a resolution. Mr. Richardson. I rise to a question of order. I understand the Chair to state that the unfinished business of yesterday is in order. , The Speaker. Will the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. R-ichardson] allow the gen- tleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Florence] to ask the unanimous consent of the House to introduce a resolution? Mr. Stephens, of Georgia. I object to the Introduction of any business out of order. Mr. Richardson. I understand the Chair to state that the business in order is the unfinished business of yesterday. I want to call the attention of the Chair to the fact, that upon yesterday a motion to suspend the rules was in order. I understand the rule to be, that when the day arrives upon which it will be in order to move a suspension of the rules, business undisposed of on the previous suspension day would come up as the regular business in order. Hence it is not now in order — this not being suspension day — to recur to the bill introduced yesterday under a suspension of the rules. The Speaker. The Chair must remind the gentleman that the question of order is, in his opinion, not admissible. Mr. Evans. I do not wish to debate this matter, but make a suggestion, if the Chair will have patience with me for a single moment. The 23d rule declares: That as soon as the Journal Is read, the Speaker shall call for petitions from the members of each State and delegates from each Territory, beginning with Maine. The 27th rule says that — After an hour shall be devoted to reports from committees and resolutions, it shall be in order, pending the consideration or discussion thereof, to entertain a motion that the House do now pro- ceed to dispose of the business on the Speaker’s table, and to the orders of the day. Then by the 58th rule: The unfinished business in which the House was engaged at the last preceding adjournment shall have the preference in the orders of the day, and no motion on any other business shall be received without special leave of the House until the former is disposed of. Mr. Hall. I rise to a question of order. I understand that no debate is in order upon the question of priority of business. The Speaker. The Chair has already announced that the question of order is not debatable. Mr. Evans. I was reading the rules. Mr. Hall. I understand you are making a speech. Mr. Evans. Not in the least. I suggest that the first business in order is the call of States for petitions, next for reports of committees; and then resolutions are in order. And when the orders of the day come up, the unfinished business of yes- terday will have the preference. I call for the reading of the 23d, 27tli, and 58th rules. The rules were then read as inserted above. The Speaker. The Chair begs leave to state the ground of his decision, which is this: But for the fact that the previous question had been seconded and the main question ordered to be put, the rules referred to would have required this bill to go over and take its place upon the calendar of the House. But the House ordered the main question to be put, and thus gives this bill or the unfinished business preference over all others. The main question must therefore be now put. By reference to the Journal of the Twenty-eighth Congress, the gentleman will find a decision directly in point. Is there any appeal from the decision of the Chair? 454 Documentary History of the Capitol. No appeal being taken, the Speaker stated the question as follows: The gentleman from California [Mr. Marshall] moved a reference of this bill to the Committee on Military Affairs. The gentleman from Tennessee [Mr. Jones] moved its reference to the Committee of Ways and Means. Upon this question the previous question was seconded and the main question ordered, and the yeas and nays were also ordered upon said question. The first question will Ire upon the proposition to refer the bill to the Committee on Military Affairs. Mr. Marshall, of California. I would ask permission of the House to make a few remarks in explanation of a personal matter. Mr. Stephens, of Georgia, objected. Mr. Marshall. T hope the objection may be withdrawn, as I shall consume but a very little time. The Speaker. Objection being made, the Chair is bound to enforce the rule. Mr. Marshall. I wish to inform the House, in the course of this explanation, in regard to the nature of the bill and the propriety of the reference. Mr. Cartter. I object. The Speaker. The Chair calls the gentleman from California [Mr. Marshall] to order. Mr. Marshall. I wish to exculpate myself from the charge of making an attack upon the committee. Mr. Richardson. Is it in order to make a motion to suspend the rules to allow the gentleman to proceed? The Speaker. It is not in order. The question was then taken upon referring the bill to the Committee on Military Affairs, and decided in the negative — yeas 75 nays 110; as follows: * * * So the motion was rejected. The question was then taken upon referring the bill to the Committee of Ways and Means; and it was agreed to. * * * THE WORKMEN ON THE CAPITOL. Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky, asked the unanimous consent of the House to introduce a joint resolution, authorizing the architect of the Capitol to continue in employ- ment the mechanics and laborers upon the two wings thereof. Mr. Stephens, of Georgia, objected. Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky. I ask that the resolution may be read, as it contains very important matter. Mr. Stephens, of Georgia, objected. [House proceedings of Dec. 16, 1851 : Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, p. 109.] THE WORKMEN ON THE CAPITOL. Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky, from the Committee on the Public Buildings and Grounds, reported a joint resolution authorizing the architect of the Capitol to con- tinue in employment the mechanics, laborers, and others employed upon the two wings thereof. The resolution was read a first and second time by its title. Mr. Stanton remarked that the appropriation for the additions to the Capitol had been exhausted, and that some three hundred mechanics and laborers — some of them with large families — who had been brought on to Washington under the expectation of permanent employment, had been discharged. They had been The Extensions. 455 thrown out of employment, too, in the most inclement season of the year, without the means of support and without any hope of employment elsewhere. He would appeal to the House to pass the resolution immediately. Pie had been told by the Architect that they could be profitably employed. They were willing to work and await the appropriation by Congress. He hoped the resolution would be put on its passage. Mr. Cartter. Will the chairman of the committee permit me to ask him a ques- tion? Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky. Certainly. Mr. Cartter. We are informed by the chairman of the committee that the funds appropriated are all expended. Can he give the House any information as to the fact that a large portion of that money has been expended in sending to the Catskill mountains for lime to lay these foundations with, when there is an abundance of lime within sight of the Capitol? I should be very glad if the chairman of the com- mittee could throw any light upon that subject. Mr. Stanton. The House, and perhaps the country too, know that I have had some little experience in this matter of lime, having used a great deal of it when I was a boy and growing up. I have seen this lime that has been so much talked about, and I declare to the House that I have never seen better lime in my life. I think the architect, the Secretary of the Interior, and the other agents engaged in making the contract, did well in selecting this lime, for it is preferable to any other that I have ever seen in this neighborhood or elsewhere. I do not know what amount of money has been expended in the purchase of lime, but I know that a great deal of work has been done, and that a great deal of mate- rial has been accumulated with the $100,000 appropriated a year ago. A great deal more work has been done, and a larger quantity of material accumulated, than I expected to see. Mr. Cartter. I would like to ask the gentleman an additional question, and that is: What is the cost per bushel of this lime which has been used, and what is the cost of the lime which could be obtained within sight of the Capitol? f am informed that there has been a little peculation about this matter. Mr. Stanton. I cannot answer that question. Mr. Bell. I have but a word to say upon this subject. I do not wish to throw any impediment in the way of the progress of this work, but I wish to inquire of the gen- tleman who drew up this resolution whether the language in which it is couched would not make it obligatory upon the agent to continue in pay every' hand who is now or has been engaged upon this work? Mr. Stanton. It was certainly not so intended by me, and if the resolution is sus- ceptible of such a construction I have no objection whatever to its modification so as to obviate that difficulty. [A message was received from the Senate, accompanied by' the bill, which had passed that body to establish a branch of the Mint of the United States in California.] Mr. Bell. Then I understand that the gentleman is willing to accept of a modifica- tion of his resolution? Mr. Stanton. I will accept of a modification if it is in my power to do so, but as this is a report from a committee I presume that I have not the power. The Speaker. As the resolution is a report from a committee, it is not in the power of the gentleman to modify it. Mr. Ficklin. I have listened with a good deal of pleasure to the remarks of the gentleman who has introduced this resolution Mr. Sackett, (interposing.) If the gentleman from Illinois will allow me, I will suggest to the mover of the resolution that, he should modify it by' the addition of these words: “If he shall think advantageous to the Government.” That will relieve the resolution from the objection suggested by the gentleman from Ohio, [Mr. Bell.] 450 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Ficklin. The modification that is suggested does not make the resolution acceptable to me. There is a passage in the preamble which will certainly prevent the resolution from receiving my vote. What is that preamble? The preamble states that whereas these individuals have been thrown out of employment, and can- not at this season of the year obtain employment elsewhere, be it therefore resolved to quarter them upon the Government. That is the proposition when stript of the verbiage by which it is surrounded. It is a plain, simple proposition to quarter these individuals upon the Government during the winter, because they cannot now find employment elsewhere. Every hand that has been engaged upon this work will be willing to remain in the service or in the pay of the Government, and their clamor will induce the superintendent to continue them in the pay of the Government. My honorable friend over the way [Mr. Bell] inquired if this resolution made it obligatory upon the Superintendent to continue these hands in employment. This resolution, together with the clamor that will be sent up to him, will prevent him from discharging any one of them. I am opposed to the passage of this resolution; and I would inquire of my honorable friend from Kentucky, [Mr. Stanton,] in whose charge is this expenditure? Is this building under the charge of the Superintendent, or is it not under the charge of other officers of the Government? Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky. It is under the charge of the Secretary of the Interior and of the Architect. The Architect has charge of the building, of the employment of hands, and of the payment of the money. Mr. Ficklin. Well, then, if the Secretary of the Interior deems it proper to con- tinue this work during the winter, and to keep these hands in employment, let him take the responsibility of asking Congress to make an appropriation for that purpose. We can do it in an hour from the time that he makes his application. But this reso- lution places it in the power of the Superintendent to keep all these hands in the employment of the Government during the winter. I am opposed to the passage of the resolution at present, at all events, and in order that its merits may be examined into and its demerits ascertained, if there be any attached to it, I ask its reference to the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union. The preamble and resolution were read, as follows: Whereas, in consequence of the exhaustion of the appropriation heretofore made for the improve- ment of the Capitol, a large number of mechanics, laborers, and others employed there have been discharged, and are thrown out of service at a season of the year when employment cannot be obtained elsewhere, Be it therefore resolved, That the architect of the Capitol be and he is hereby authorized to continue in service, until an appropriation shall hereafter be made, as many of the mechanics, laborers, and others who have been employed in the extension of the Capitol as shall be willing to remain in serv- ice and await any appropriation which may be hereafter made by Congress for their pay. Mr. Sackett. I hope the gentleman from Illinois will withdraw that motion for a moment to allow me to propose a modification of the resolution. The Speaker. The gentleman from North Carolina [Mr. Venable] has been recog- nized by the Chair. Mr. Ficklin. Permit me to suggest to my friend from New York, that as this reso- lution is a report from a committee, the gentleman who offered it cannot modify it. Mr. Sackett. I can move an amendment, I suppose? The Speaker. The gentleman from North Carolina has the floor. Mr. Venable. There may be the very best reason in the world why these work- men should be retained. If that reason was the preservation of the public work, and if that work was likely to be injured or destroyed unless this resolution was adopted, I might, perhaps, very cheerfully vote for it. But I never can vote for the employment of these men for the reasons set forth in this resolution. I never can consent to recognize, by my vote, the principle that it is the primary duty of this Government to afford work to anybody. I am opposed to Fourierism in all its The Extensions. 457 shapes; and I repeat, that I never can recognize it as a primary duty of this Govern ment to supply people that are out of employment with work. If these men have made a contract with the undertaker of this work, and the money appropriated by the Government is exhausted, they must take their luck as others do. When the people in my country get out of work, they never come to Congress and ask to be provided with employment, and they have never recognized the principle that it is the business of this Government to take money out of the Treasury to supply people who are out of work, or idle people with the means of living. If it can be satisfac- torily shown that the adoption of this resolution is necessary for the protection of the public works, I will cheerfully give it my support. But here is the bald propo- sition introduced into this House, and placed before the country, that because these men are out of employment and cannot find work, it is therefore our duty to author- ize the creation of a debt upon the Treasury, and to permit the architect, or superin- tendent of the work, to employ these men upon the faith of the promise of Congress that an appropriation shall he made hereafter for their payment. I agree with the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Ficklin] that this resolution had better be referred to the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, so that it may be put in a proper form, and that it may not go forth that this House has sanctioned the doctrine that it is a primary duty of the Government of the United States to furnish those who are out of work with employment. Mr. Ficklin. With the permission of the gentleman from North Carolina [Mr. Venable] I wish to suggest to him that this resolution takes the responsibility from the Secretary of the Interior, and interposes between him and his duty to this Government. Mr. Venable. I was about to make that very remark. I am one of those who believe in the responsibility of agents. I believe that you ought to fix the duties of your agent, and hold him responsible for the discharge of those duties. I never will, bjr any vote of mine, step in between him and his responsibility, so that if there is mismanagement, a waste of the public funds, or a direction given to those funds that was not contemplated by the act of Congress, he can shelter himself by saying, “I was doing exactly what the law required, and you stepped in and inter- fered with me.” No; let us hold the Department of the Interior responsible for this work. If they need a further appropriation; if the works need protection; or if there be sound and good reasons for an additional appropriation, let the information come from the Department, and let us have the reasons before us on which we are to act. Mr. Stanton, of Tennessee. I would inquire of the gentleman from North Carolina, whether there is not an estimate from the Department for the continuation of this work? If so, is there any good reason why the work should stop during the jiresent season? Would it not be for the public interest to let the work go on in anticipation of the appropriation which has been asked for by the Department? Mr. Venable. I have no disposition whatever to obstruct or to arrest the execution of this work, but I do protest most solemnly against the admission of the principle, in our legislation, that it is a primary duty of this Government to furnish work to those who are in need of employment. Mr. Florence, (interrupting.) Here are a number of persons who have come from the different States of the Union — having given up employment elsewhere — under the impression that they could have continued employment here. I apprehend that every one of them earns all that he obtains for his labor. I apprehend that every one of them feels at the close of his day’s work, that he has performed his duty to himself and to the Government, and would despise the idea that he had “quartered himself” upon the Government. The prospect was held out to these men — from the fact that the building of these Capitol wings would be continued for years — that they would have permanent employment here. And I desire to say, on behalf of these jiersons, that they would 458 Documentary History of the Capitol. not think for a single moment, of “quartering themselves upon the Government” without rendering what some one has called a quid pro quo. Mr. Venable. All that is nothing new to me. I did not rise for the purpose of dis- cussing the character of these men or the calculations which they may have made. Arguments of that sort ought to have no influence here. These men appear before us just like any other laborers. I have exactly as much respect for them as I have for any other honest laborers. If they made a contract with the agent of the Govern- ment to work for a certain number of days, they ought to be paid for that work, but if they made a bargain to work as long as the money which had been appropriated lasted, and that money is now exhausted, they have worked out their contract, and we have not deceived them or withheld anything from them which they had a right to expect, however respectable they may be, or however unwilling to quarter them- selves on the Government — and I freely admit that they are so. I say again, that if that resolution is passed for the reason given upon its face, that these men have been thrown out of employment, and cannot at this season obtain employment else- where, it is a recognition of the principle that it is a primary duty of this Govern- ment to furnish men who are out of work with employment. To such a principle, I for one, can never give my sanction. Mr. Sackett. Will the gentleman from North Carolina allow me to submit an amendment? Mr. Venable. I will yield the floor to the gentleman. Mr. Sackett. I suppose that this work is under the charge of the Secretary of the Interior. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I rise to a question of order. 1 wish to inquire of the Chair if the motion now pending is not a motion to refer this resolution to the Com- mittee of the Whole on the state of the Union? The Speaker. That is the question now pending before the House. Mr. Sackett. That motion was withdrawn. Mr. Ficklix. No, sir; I have not withdrawn it. Tire Speaker. The first question put to the House will be upon the motion to refer the joint resolution to the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union. Mr. Venable. And I am entitled to the floor, and was discussing the propriety of that very reference. This resolution is, in my opinion, properly referable to the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union. There the whole subject can be examined and discussed, and the report can be amended. The resolution makes an appropriation, and it must therefore go to the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union. I should not have opened my mouth upon this subject, except to have voted for the reference, but I could not consent to remain silent, and thus appear to recognize the principle involved in this resolution, that it is a sufficient reason for the employ- ment of anybody that he is out of work. As has been justly remarked by the gen- tleman from Illinois, [Mr. Ficklin,] the effect of this resolution, and of the clamor and pressure from without, would be that the Superintendent would continue in employment ever} - one of these individuals. Economy must begin somewhere. Responsibility with regard to the expenditure of the public funds must be fixed somewhere, and as we have fixed the responsi- bility of this expenditure in the Department of the Interior, and as the appropriation is exhausted, I am unwilling to make a further appropriation until it is applied for by the Department. While, therefore, I am not opposed to the continuance of this work, I am not disposed to further it in violation of the rales of this body, and of proper rules of economy. Let the whole subject come before the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union. It is better that these workmen should be with- out employment for a day or two than that we should violate the rules of prudence and economy. The Extensions. 459 Mr. Harris, of Tennessee, called for the previous question. The previous question was seconded, and the main question ordered; which main question was on the motion to refer the joint resolution to the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union. Mr. Ticklin called for the yeas and nays; and they were ordered. The question was then taken, and there were — yeas 93, nays 58; as follows: * * * So the joint resolution was referred to the Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union. Mr. Walsh moved that, the rules be suspended, and that the House resolve itself into Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, for the purpose of con- sidering the joint resolution just referred thereto. The question was taken upon this motion; and on a division, there were — ayes 55, noes 51. No quorum voting. On motion by Mr. Stanton, of Tennessee, the House then adjourned. [House proceedings of Dec. 17, 1851: Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, p. 123.] Mr. Riddle. I desire to offer a resolution, which is upon the same subject — although it differs in effect — as the resolution offered yesterday by the gentleman from Ken- tucky, [Mr. Stanton,] and which was referred to the Committee of the W T hole on the state of the Union. I do not desire to debate the resolution further than to say, that all the objections urged against the resolution yesterday, are obviated by the one which I now offer. If it is read, I feel confident that it will meet with the con- currence of the whole House, as, I am assured, it does meet with the concurrence of the Committee on Public Buildings. The resolution was read, as follows: Whereas the appropriation, for the improvement of the Capitol has been exhausted: Therefore Be it resolved, That the Architect of the Capitol be and he is hereby authorized to continue in service, until an appropriation shall hereafter be made, such mechanics and laborers as may, in his opinion, be demanded by the interests of the Government. Mr. Riddle demanded the previous question on the adoption of the resolution. Mr. Fuller, of Maine. Is it in order to offer an amendment to that resolution? The Speaker. It is not in order, as the previous question is demanded. Mr. Fuller. Then I move to lay the resolution upon the table. Mr. Venable demanded tellers; which were ordered; and Messrs. Orr and Meacham were appointed. Mr. Walsh. I submit to the Chair that we have no power to appropriate money, except by joint resolution; and as this resolution necessarily involves an appropria- tion, it is not in the proper form. The Speaker. That may be a reason for voting down the resolution, but the Chair cannot upon that ground rule it out of order. The question was then taken on the motion to lay the resolution on the table; and the tellers reported— ayes 72, noes 61. So the resolution was laid upon the table. [House proceedings of Jan. 5, 1852: Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, p. 201.] Mr. McNair. I ask the unanimous consent of the House to introduce a resolution, and I feel certain that no gentleman in this House will object to it when they know something about it. I will say a word The Speaker. Debate is out of order. Mr. McNair. I want simply to give an idea 460 Documentary History of the Gajpitol. The Speaker. It is impossible for the Chair to allow discussion under the rules. The resolution was then read, as follows: Resolved, That a committee be appointed to inquire into the firmness and solidity of the foundation of the extension of the Capitol, now laid, and whether the strength of the stone be sufficient to uphold the superstructure about to be erected thereon. Mr. McNair moved to suspend the rules. A division being asked, the question was taken, and there were — ayes 78, noes 45. Mr. McNair demanded tellers; which were ordered; and Messrs. McNair and Beale were appointed. The question was then taken, and there were — ayes 77, noes 34. The Speaker. There appears to be no quorum voting. Mr. Stephens, of Georgia, moved that the House adjourn. On which motion, Mr. John W. Howe demanded the yeas and nays; which were ordered; when — Mr. Stephens withdrew his motion. Mr. Giddings. I ask the unanimous consent of the House to offer a resolution; and hope there will be no objection. The Speaker. The motion cannot be entertained at present. The proposition is now to suspend the rules for the purpose of enabling the gentleman from Pennsyl- vania [Mr. McNair] to introduce a resolution, which will be again read for the information of the House. Mr. Moore, of Pennsylvania. I would suggest to my colleague that if he would substitute the Committee on Public Buildings, the resolution would pass without any objection. Mr. McNair. I prefer a select committee. Mr. Ficklin said tellers were ordered, and there was no quorum. I ask for a recount, that we may see if there is not a quorum present. A recount was then had, (Messrs. Penn and McNair acting as tellers,) and there were — ayes 84, noes 42. So the rules were suspended. Mr. McNair moved the previous question upon the adoption of the resolution. Mr. Cobb demanded tellers; and they were ordered. Mr. Fowler. Will it be in order to move the reference of the resolution to the Committee on Public Buildings? The Speaker. The reference will not be in order during the pendency of the pre- vious question. Mr. Fowler. I think that is the appropriate committee. The question was then taken on the call for the previous question, (Messrs. Fowler and McNair acting as tellers, ) and resulted — ayes 78, noes 23. The Speaker. There is no quorum voting. Mr. Stephens, of Georgia. I move that the House adjourn. Mr. John W. Howe demanded the yeas and nays; tvhich were not ordered. The question was then taken, and the House adjourned. [House proceedings of Jan. 12, 1852: Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, p. 253.] THE FOUNDATION OF THE ADDITIONS TO THE CAPITOL. The Speaker. The Chair begs leave to state, that at the adjournment on last Mon- day there was pending a resolution introduced by the gentleman from Pennsylvania, [Mr. McNair,] upon the adoption of which the previous question had been called. Is there a second? Mr. McMullin. Let the resolution be read. The resolution was read by the Clerk, as follows: j Resolved, That a committee be appointed to inquire into the firmness and stability of the founda- tion of the extension of the Capitol now laid, and whether the strength of the stone be sufficient to uphold the superstructure about to be erected thereon. The Extensions. 461 The call for the previous question was then seconded, and the main question ordered to be put. The question now being upon the adoption of the resolution, it Avas put, and there were, upon a division — ayes 107, noes 28. So the resolution was adopted. [Senate proceedings of Feb. 5, 1852: Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, p. 468.] WORKMEN ON THE CAPITOL. Mr. Cass. I hold in my hand a petition of mechanics and laborers lately employed on the extension of the wings of the Capitol, praying that they may be allowed to proceed with the work. They desire to be employed on the work during the winter, but to wait for their remuneration until an appropriation shall lie made for that purpose. I have also a letter from the Secretary of the Interior, and a letter from the principal architect, recommending this course. Very strong reasons are given why this course should be pursued, as well on account of the public interest as from a regard to the condition of these people. I desire that the petition may be read. The Secretary read it accordingly. The memorialists represent that they came to Washington for the purpose of being employed on the extension of the wings of the United States Capitol, and many of them, relying with confidence on the Government, brought with them their families. They are mechanics and laboring men, upon whom the responsibility of a family depends. They look to Congress alone for relief, by allowing them on their own responsibility to continue at work during the winter, with a view 7 to the future action of Congress. The letter from the Secretary of the Interior, the Hon. A. H. H. Stuart, and the letter of the Architect, Mr. T. U. Walter, were also read. Mr. Cass. I hold in my hand a joint resolution in relation to this subject, which I hope the Senate will consider at this time. Mr. Ejntek. Let it be read. The Secretary read it, as follows: Resolved by the Senate and Ho use of Representatives , & c . , That the Architect of the Capitol, under the direction of the Secretary of the Interior, be and he hereby is authorized to continue in employment so many of the mechanics, laborers, and others employed in the construction of the wings of the Capitol, as may be necessary, provided such persons as may be employed under the authority of this resolution consent to wait for their pay any appropriation which may be hereafter made by Congress for that purpose. Mr. Cass. I will merely remark, that that resolution was prepared by the Com- mittee on Public Buildings of the other House. A similar one is pending in Com- mittee of the Whole in that House; but it is doubtful when it will come up. They therefore w T ished me to introduce it in the Senate. I hope there will be no objection to it. The President. It requires the unanimous consent of the Senate to introduce the resolution at this time, notice not having been given. Mr. Hunter. I do not object to the object of the resolution, because I concur with the Senator from Michigan in regard to it; but I would suggest to him whether it would not be better to refer it to the Committee on Public Buildings. Mr. Cass. I suggested that course, but the chairman of the committee of the other House thought it unnecessary. Mr. Hunter. If that is the opinion of the chairman I will not press it, Mr. Cass. I so understood him. The Senator from Illinois was present, and can bear witness to it. Mr. Shields. I was spoken to this morning by the Architect, and also by the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings of the other House in regard to the 462 Documentary History of the Capitol. subject. They were extremely anxious that this resolution should be passed this morning; and I hope that, under the peculiar circumstances of the case, there will be no objection to it. Mr. Borland. I wish to say a word why I shall object at this time. If I under- stand this matter, a committee has been appointed by the other House to investi- gate the subject, and see whether it is proper that the work should go on at all. Therefore, I think it is improper at this time to pass a resolution requiring the work to be continued. Mr. Cass. The honorable Senator from Arkansas is under a misapprehension. There has been no committee appointed by the other House to investigate the sub- ject. It is under the charge of the Committee on Public Buildings, and the chairman of that committee was here this morning and expressed a hope that this resolution would be passed. The President. It cannot be received as objection has been made. Is any motion made with regard to the memorial? Mr. Shields. I move that the memorial and papers be referred to the Com- mittee on Public Buildings. The motion was agreed to. [Senate proceedings of Feb. 6, 1852: Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, p. 487.] WORKMEN ON THE CAPITOL. Mr. Hunter, from the Committee on Public Buildings, to which was referred the memorial of the workmen employed on the extension of the Capitol, reported a joint resolution to authorize the continuance of the work on the two wings of the Capitol; which was read a first time, and ordered to a second reading. Mr. Hunter. I ask the unanimous consent of the Senate to have it read a second time now, and considered by the Senate. The President. It requires unanimous consent. Is there any objection? Mr. Borland. I regret to make any opposition to this The President. Does the Senator object? Mr. Borland. I wish to state the reason why I object. I stated yesterday, when this matter was brought before the Senate, that the subject involved was undergoing an investigation by a committee of the House of Representatives. I was under the impression that a special committee had been appointed for the purpose of inquiring into the correctness of the report, that the foundations laid were not secure. It was supposed by some that these investigations had been abandoned, and that the gentle- man moving for the committee had become satisfied, and had withdrawn his propo- sition. I learn, however, that such is not the fact, and that he is still of opinion that the foundations of the wings are insecure and unsafe; and he is now pressing the other House for permission to send for persons and papers in order to inquire into the matter. Eor that reason I would be unwilling to see any measure adopted to provide for the continuance of the work, until that investigation should be made. Mr. Hunter. I would state to my friend from Arkansas that I have examined into this matter, as I am a member of the Joint Committee on Public Buildings; and even if the suspicion which his friend entertains in relation to the foundations of the wings were true, the passage of this resolution would not affect it much. I have seen the Architect this morning, and he does not expect to carry up the walls until after the first of March, and then only in fine weather. I apprehend, however, that there cannot be much doubt as to the security of the foundations. This reso- lution, however, limits the work to be done by the appropriation which it makes. The Extensions. 463 The resolution of the Senator from Michigan [Mr. Cass] left it indefinite. I think that the object of the Senator will not be delayed by the passage of this resolution. Mr. Borland. Under the circumstances stated by the Senator from Virginia, I withdraw my objection. The resolution was read a second time, and the Senate proceeded to consider it as in Committee of the Whole. It is as follows: Resolved , &c., That the Secretary of the Interior may continue in employment, for the construction of the wings of the Capitol, as many of the mechanics and laborers as can be properly engaged on the work; and that the sum of $10,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, for that purpose: Provided, however, That the walls of the building shall not be carried up in weather which is unsuitable for the work. The resolution was reported to the Senate without amendment, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time. [House proceedings of Feb. 6, 1852: Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, p. 494.] EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL. Mr. McNair, from the committee on the extension of the Capitol, asked leave to report a resolution. Mr. Jones, of Tennessee. If that is a report from a committee, it may take up the entire day with its discussion. I object to it, and move that the House resolve itself into Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, with a view of taking up the bill for the assignability of land warrants. Mr. McNair. It will not take up five minutes. I ask that it may be read for information. It was read by the Clerk as follows: Resolved, That the committee appointed to examine into the firmness and stability, &c., of the foundations for the extension of the Capitol, be authorized to send for persons and papers, and to examine witnesses under oath. Mr. McNair. I ask that the resolution may be put on its passage; and upon that question I ask the previous question. Mr. Jones. I have not withdrawn my objection to the introduction of the resolu- tion. I move that the rules be suspended, and that the House resolve itself into Com- mittee of the Whole on the state of the Union. Mr. Henn. I hope the House will resolve itself into Committee of the Whole on the Private Calendar. That Calendar is now getting full, and it is very necessary that some of the bills should be disposed of. The Speaker. There being a special order before the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, a motion that the House resolve itself into that committee will take precedence of a motion to go into Committee of the Whole on the Private Calendar. Mr. Jones. At the suggestion of several gentlemen around me, I will withdraw my objection to the resolution introduced by the gentleman from Pennsylvania. Mr. McNair. I now move to put the resolution upon its passage; and upon that motion I call the previous question. The previous question was seconded, and the main question ordered to be put upon the passage of the resolution. Mr. Penniman demanded the yeas and nays; but they were not ordered. The question was then taken, and the resolution was adopted. 464 Documentary History of the Capitol. [H. of Reps. Ex. Doc. No. 60. 32d Congress, 1st session. Extension of the Capitol. Message from the President of the United States, transmitting the report of the architect for the extension of the Capitol. February 12, 1852.— Referred to the Committee on Pubile Buildings and Grounds, and ordered to be printed.] To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States: I transmit herewith a report from the Secretary of the Interior, containing a report from Thomas U. Walter, architect for the extension of the Capitol. Millard Fillmore. Executive Chamber, Washington City , February 10, 1852. Department of the Interior, Washington, February 10, 1852. Sir: I have the honor herewith to submit, and to recommend that it be com- municated to Congress, the report of Thomas IT. Walter, architect for the extension of the Capitol, showing the condition of that and the other public w r orks under his charge. I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant, Alex. H. H. Stuart, Secretary. To the President of the United States. Architect’s Office, TJ. S. Capitol, Washington , I). C'., December 23, 1851. Sir: I have the honor to lay before you the following report of the progress and state of the public works under my charge, with such suggestions as to their future prosecution as the present occasion seems to require. The Extension of the Capitol. — The general design and outlines' of this work were decided on by the President of the United States on the 10th of June last; and in accordance with his instructions, I proceeded, without delay, to prepare the neces- sary drawings, and to make arrangements for commencing the w T ork. The corner-stone was laid at noon on the 4th day of July last, by the President, with appropriate ceremonies, since which time the work has progressed with as much rapidity as the character of the structure, and a proper regard for its stability and permanency, would warrant. The outside w r alls, which are eight feet nine inches broad at the base, and six feet nine inches thick above the footings, are founded at the depth of fifteen feet below the surface of the ground on the eastern front, and in some parts of the western front they reach the depth of forty feet. In consequence of the Capitol having been erected on the western brow of the original hill, and the present terraces being made ground, this extraordinary depth of foundation became necessary, as it was highly important that every part of the work should be founded on the natural, undis- turbed earth, and which I have the satisfaction to say has been accomplished. Nearly all the outside foundation w r alls have been raised sufficiently high to receive the cut-stone work. Such portions of these w r alls as now appear above the ground will be covered by the terraces, which are to correspond in height and gen- eral design, to those which embellish the present Capitol. The building-stone which have been laid in the foundations, since the commence- ment of the work, amount to eighteen thousand perches, all of which have been furnished by contract; and the lime, sand, and cement have been supplied in the same manner. The excavations and stone-masonry have been done by days- work- men, under the superintendence of Mr. Samuel Strong, whose mechanical skill and The Extensions. 465 energy, in the discharge of his duties, are manifested by the amount of work that has been accomplished, as well as by its execution. Description of the Design . — The present building is three hundred and fifty-two feet four inches from north to south, and one hundred and twenty-one feet six inches from east to west, with a portico of one hundred and sixty feet in width on the east- ern front, and a projection on the western front of eighty-three feet, embracing a recessed portico of ten columns, which constitute the facade of the Library. The extension of the Capitol consists of two wing buildings placed at the north and south ends of the present structure, ajt the distance of forty-four feet from it, with connecting corridors. Each building is one hundred and forty-two feet eight inches front, from north to south, by two hundred and thirty-eight feet ten inches deep, from east to west, exclusive of the porticoes and steps; the corridors consist of passages leading from the centre building to the wings, of twenty-one feet four inches in width, with outside colonnades, which make the entire width of each corridor fifty-six feet eight inches. The wing buildings have porticoes on the east front, extending the whole width, with a flight of steps to each, corresponding to the steps of the present Capitol. Each of these porticoes has a centre projection of ten feet four inches by seventy- eight feet in width; thus forming a double portico in the centre of the facade, simi- lar in general design to that of the present eastern portico. There is also a portico on the west front of each wing, one hundred and live feet eight inches in width, pro- jecting ten feet six inches; and on the north and south fronts, porticoes of the same projection, each of which is one hundred and twenty-one feet four inches in width. The whole extent of the buildings, from north to south, when finished, will be seven hundred and fifty-one feet four inches, and the greatest width from east to west, including porticoes and steps, is three hundred and twenty-four feet. The ground actually covered by the buildings, including the porticoes and steps, and exclusive of the court-yards, is 153,112 square feet, or six hundred and fifty-two square feet more than three and a half acres; of which there is covered by the present building 61,201 square feet, and by the new wings and corridors 91,911. The architecture of the exterior is designed to correspond in its principal features to that of the present building, and the disposition of the various parts is intended to present the appearance of one harmonious structure, and to impart dignity to the present building, rather than to interfere with its proportions, or detract from its grandeur and beauty. The principal entrance to each wing is on the eastern front; the approach to it is by means of a flight of thirty-nine steps, flanked by massy cheek-blocks, similar to those of the present building, with a vaulted carriage way below to enter the base- ment. The front door opens into a vestibule of twenty-seven feet in width, leading into a hall fifty-five feet square, lighted from the roof, and embellished by twenty marble columns, supporting an entablature and balustrade; this colonnade will support the galleries for approaching the offices in the second story. These halls will be enriched with marble antaj against the walls in both stories, and lighted by ornamental stained glass sky-lights, supported by iron rafters. From each hall a vaulted passage, of twenty-six feet ten inches in width, leads into a corridor of twenty-three feet six inches, running across each wing from north to south, and uniting it with the centre building. The Hall of Representatives occupies the western half of the south wing, and is lighted on three sides by fifty windows. Its dimensions are one hundred and thirty feet from north to south, and ninety-seven feet ten inches from east to west. The ceiling is thirty-five feet in height; deeply panelled and ornamented with brackets, pendants, and enriched mouldings; the panels will be filled in with ornamental glass, through which light will be transmitted from sky-lights in the roof. H. liep. 646 ■30 Documentary History of the Capitol. 466 The floor of the House is large enough to accommodate four hundred members with separate desks, and allow ample space for lobbies and seats for distinguished visitors, while at the same time it may be conveniently adapted to the number of representatives which at present constitute this branch of the legislature. The galleries for spectators extend around three sides of the hall, and are designed to accommodate twelve hundred persons; they are approached by two spacious flights of marble stairs. The southern and western porticoes open into the - hall, and will be appropriated exclusively to the use of the members, and such as have the privilege of the floor of the House. The Senate Chamber is located in the western half of the north wing, and is lighted on the north and west by twenty-six windows. Its dimensions are seventy feet six inches, by ninety-seven feet ten inches; the ceiling is thirty-five feet, in height, with sunken panels and ornaments, similar to those of the House of Repre- sentatives already described. There is ample room in this hall for separate seats for one hundred senators, allowing at the same time all the space that will ever be required for lobbies and the accommodation of distinguished visitors. The galleries, like those of the Hall of Representatives, occupy three sides of the chamber, and contain accommodations for twelve hundred persons; they are approached by two flights of marble stairs like those of the south wing. The gal- leries of each of the halls have five spacious doorways, which will afford ingress and egress without crowding, or causing inconvenience to the audience or disturbance to the members. The whole number of rooms in both wings, exclusive of the legislative halls, is one hundred and one; all of which are vaulted with bricks, and rendered completely fire-proof. Ninety-five of these rooms are lighted directly from the outside, by one or more windows, and the remaining six depend on secondary light, and are designed for the storing of documents, stationery, &c. The warming of the buildings will be effected by means of hot-water pipes enclosed in chambers erected in the cellars, and connected with boilers for heating the water; the external air will be admitted into these chambers, where it will be warmed and conducted by flues to all the halls and rooms in the buildings. The supply of air will be brought through the circular windows under the eastern portico of the present building, and conducted down the well-holes already existing in the spandrels of the rotundo, and which are ten feet in diameter, extending from the top of the building to the cellar; culverts will be constructed for conveying the air from these shafts to the furnace chambers in the wings, and the pure air will be drawn down and forced through the chambers, where it will be warmed in its pas- sage to the rooms. This artificial draught will be created by means of fans placed at the bottom of the air shafts, and worked by a small steam-engine erected in the cellar of the centre building, and kept continually at work during cold weather. By these means, a constant breeze of warm air will be thrown into every room, by which a corresponding volume of air previously in the room will be displaced; thus assisting the process of ventilation, and creating a circulation of the atmosphere which could not be attained by any other process. The failure of furnaces to warm buildings covering a large area, may generally be attributed to the difficulty with which warm air is conveyed in a horizontal direc- tion; the levity it attains by rarefaction will give it an upward draught of a velocity in proportion to its temperature, in comparison to that of the external air; but its levity has but little effect in carrying it horizontally; hence it is necessary to force the air through the heating medium, without which a uniform supply can seldom be attained. Air thus admitted, warmed and forced into the rooms, cannot fail to be agreeable as well as healthy; it will be taken from an elevation above all impurities, and The Extensions. 467 admitted at a point shielded from the smoke and gas of the chimneys by the heavy projecting portico of the centre building; in its passage around the hot-water pipes it can never come in contact with surfaces heated above 212° Fahrenheit, and can therefore never receive an excess of carbonic acid gas, nor suffer a diminution of moisture. By a proper execution of this plan of heating, every part of the buildings will be rendered warm and comfortable during the coldest weather, and open fires will be unnecessary. I have, however, thought it best to introduce fireplaces in all the rooms throughout the building, as well as in the halls of legislation, as many of the members are accustomed to open fires, and would not be willing to dispense with them. Flues for ventilation will be constructed from all the rooms throughout both build- ings, to lead to foul-air chambers between the upper tier of arches and the roof; connected with these chambers, air shafts will be built to extend above the roof, in which artificial heat will be introduced, so as to keep up at all times an ascending current of sufficient velocity to free the rooms and halls of legislation from all deteriorated air. This system of ventilation would be sufficient of itself to render all the apartments agreeable and healthy; but when considered in connexion with the plan of heating which has just been described, there can be no doubt of a satis- factory result. The Senate Chamber and the Flail of Representatives are both designed with reference to the principles of acoustics. The magnitude of these rooms, especially the latter, and the fact that they are to be constructed for speaking in from every point, render it necessary to avoid all forms that would produce echoes, and at the same time to present reflecting surfaces enough to give power to the voice without resolving the sound with greater intensity on one point than on another. To attain these objects the rooms are made rectangular, and the ceilings comparatively low and flat; and I have no doubt that with proper attention to establish acoustic prin- ciples, in the arrangement of the details of the rooms, they will be free from echoes, no matter in what part the speaking may take place. I have estimated the cost of executing the entire design, in accordance with the drawings and model, the whole to be faced with white marble, and finished in a substantial and workmanlike manner, and find that every expense will be covered by $2,675,000 Of which there have already been appropriated by Congress 100, 000 Leaving as the amount required to complete the work 2, 575, 000 This estimate is founded upon the assumption that the interior of the new build- ings will not be more expensively finished than the present Capitol; if, therefore, it should be hereafter decided to introduce architectural embellishments of a more ornate or expensive character, the cost will be proportionately augmented. The shortest time in which the work can be well and substantially done, and the terraces and grounds completed, is five years from the present date; but which, of course, will depend on the necessary appropriations being made by Congress, so as to admit of its advancing as rapidly as possible, without suspension or hinderance. The cellars may be finished and the basement story constructed and vaulted during the ensuing season ; in the second year the exterior walls may be raised to their entire height, and the principal story vaulted. It will require the third year to vault the upper story and put the buildings under roof; after which, there will be as much work as can be accomplished in two years, in constructing the porticoes, fin- ishing and furnishing the interior, and completing the terraces and grounds. 468 Documentary History of the Capitol. By an act of Congress approved September 30, 1850, there was appro- priated for the extension of the Capitol, as before stated, the sum of. . $100, 000 00 Of which there have been expended to the present date, (December 23, 1851 ) 88, 082 86 Leaving an unexpended balance of 11, 917 14 Out of which sundry hills for materials and the wages of the workmen for the present month are to be paid, the aggregate amount of which, as nearly as can now be esti- mated, will be about $10,000. A detailed account of the expenditures from the commencement of the work to the 31st of the present month, inclusive, will be transmitted to you on the 1st day of January ensuing. There will be required, to carry on the work during the remainder of the present fiscal year ending June 30, 1852 $350, 000 00 And during the ensuing fiscal year ending June 30, 1853 650, 000 00 Making * * To the Secretary of the Interior. 1,000,000 00 * Thomas U. Walter, Architect of Public Buildings. [House proceedings of Mar. 12, 1852: Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, p. 730.] THE EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL. The House * * * resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, (Mr. Seymour, of Connecticut, in the chair.) The Chairman. The first business in order is the special order, being “Senate joint resolution No. 2, authorizing the architect of the Capitol to continue in employ- ment the mechanics, laborers, and others, employed upon the two wings thereof.” Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky. I have been instructed by the Committee on Public Buildings and Public Grounds, of which I have the honor to be chairman, to report an amendment to the resolution now pending, by way of substitute, and insist upon its adoption. The amendment was then read, as follows: That there be, and hereby is, appropriated out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appro- priated, for the period between the passage of this resolution, and the end of the fiscal year termi- nating June 30th, 1853, the sum of $500,000, for the continuation of the work on the two wings of the Capitol. Mr. St a nton, of Kentucky. The necessity which gave rise to the original resolu- tion has passed. It was intended only as a temporary expedient to prevent a total suspension of the work on the two wings of the Capitol. The appropriation of the last Congress for this improvement was only $100,000, and that was exhausted at the commencement of the present year. Since then the work has necessarily been sus- pended, the mechanics and laborers discharged, and the important object to be accomplished by the extension of the edifice, consequently delayed. I earnestly hoped that at an early period the House would have taken up the resolution of the Senate, passed it, and permitted the work to be continued. Had this been done, two months of fine weather would not have been lost — the work would have been in a state of progress, and the nation could not have reproached its Representatives for refusing to do for so long a period what need not at any time have occupied more than five minutes. The Extensions. 469 The appropriation of $500,000, contemplated by the amendment I have proposed, is less than was asked for by the Secretary of the Interior, and the accomplished architect in charge of the work. Their estimates were made last fall, and a large portion of the time in which the money was to have been expended having elapsed, it is deemed necessary now to appropriate only this amount, which will be sufficient for the period between the passage of the resolution and the end of the fiscal year, terminating June 30, 1853. The Committee of Ways and Means have not provided in any of their appropriation bills reported to the House for the extension of the Capitol. The House very appropriately referred the subject to the Committee on Public Buildings, and that committee, after inquiring into the propriety of the appro- priation, and in view of the fact that no regular appropriation bill to which this can be attached, will, in all probability, be passed before the end of the session, have directed me to urge it now. The work has been commenced. I cannot doubt that it is the intention of Con- gress to complete it. One hundred thousand dollars have already been expended, and, I am happy to say, judiciously expended. This appropriation is needed, and must be made, and it is wiser to make it now and permit the work to proceed with a full complement of hands, than to make a small appropriation which may not last until the regular appropriation bills are passed. It will be the best economy to com- plete the building as speedily as it can be done consistently with a proper execution of the work. Mr. Woodward. If I am in order in making the inquiry, I should like to know whether it is likely that the special committee, relative to the foundation of the wings of the Capitol, will probably make a report? The question of what is to be the amount of appropriation may be affected by the report from that committee. I should like to inquire, if it be in order, when that committee may be expected to report, and what is likely to be the character of the report? Mr. McNair, (chairman of the committee. ) We shall report next week, and we are now almost ready. Mr. Woodward. I ask pardon of the gentleman from Kentucky [Mr. Stantox] for interrupting him. Mr. Stanton. I have no objection to the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. McNair] making his statement. Mr. McNair. The investigation has been going on regularly, and we are now almost ready to report. We have found the wall in a dreadful condition — in a con- dition that has astonished us all. When we came to examine it, we found that Avail with shells built up on the outside, and small stones thrown in on the inside. We have found it in a very bad condition. There are no stones running through the wall to bind it. There are no headers, and there is no bond work. Mr. Woodward. I understand from the gentleman from Kentucky [Mr. Stanton] that he had not concluded his remarks. I supposed he had, or I would not have made the inquiry. Mr. Stanton. If I do not lose my right to the floor, I ha\-e no objection to the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. McNair] proceeding. Mr. McNair. The mortar that has been put in there we have found to be entirely insufficient, as we believe. It has been in there about three months, and it is not yet set. Men with picks just dug out the inside, and threiv out the stones with their hands, and threw out the sand or mortar, or whatever you call it, with a shovel. We have, as one member of the committee expressed it, realized our very worst anticipations. We had no expectation that this large appropriation would be sprung upon us at this time, for the architect himself asked but $350,000 in his report to the President of the United States. That report I have in my possession. We belie\ T e this thing ought to be investigated fairly, and that all things connected with it should be brought before this House before this appropriation is made. 470 Documentary History of the Capitol. If this appropriation is once made, we will be powerless to change it. We will be all fastened, and you will put up a building which will cost $5,000,000, upon an appropriation of $100,000 made by this House on the 30th day of September, 1850— an appropriation made in three lines and a half, giving to the President of the United States $100,000, and power to appoint an architect — that architect to produce a plan, of which lie shall approve; and then the money was to be expended from the commencement of the extension of the Capitol. That money has been under the control of the architect himself, who has drawn it out of the Treasury himself. It has been expended; how, we know not. I have here a statement of the money drawn from the Secretary of the Treasury by the architect himself in sums of $20,000, and expended or disbursed by him, I know not how. This matter requires an inquiry, and I want this House to know and to understand how this business is pro- gressing, and whether this foundation will be so frail and so weak that the super- structure raised upon it will fall down. One of the best architects, perhaps, in the State of Pennsylvania was here, who has no interest whatever in this work, and probably never will have, and he declared to me, when he looked at that wall and examined the formation of it, that he would venture his life the building would fall down if built upon it. Now, that is the opinion of a respectable architect who has no interest in this matter, and I therefore want the House to pause before making this appropriation. Mr. Duncan, (interrupting.) I wish to ask the gentleman, who that architect from Pennsylvania is? and whether he has been examined before the committee? Mr. McNair. No. I did not say that lie had been. The gentleman is a friend of Mr. Pimmick, and was visiting him; he may give his name if he chooses. [Cries of “No!” “No!”] Mr. Duncan. As he is represented as a person of such high reputation, we want to know who he is. [Cries of “Name! ” “Name!”] Many Members. “No!” “No!” Mr. McNair. He was introduced to me by Mr. Dimmick. [Loud cries of “Name!” “Name!” and “Oh no, go on!”] [Renewed cries of ‘ ‘ Name ! ” “ Name ! ” ] Mr. Florence. Oh no; the reputation of Pennsylvania may be at stake. [Cries of “Order,” and laughter.] Many Members. “Name!” “Name!” Mr. McNair. Well, his name is Knowles. [Laughter.] Mr. Duncan. Where is he from? Mr. McNair. I wish gentlemen to know something about the disbursement of that money, before they judge whether everything is perfectly right. Mr. Seymour, of New York, (interrupting.) I wish merely to ask the gentleman from Pennsylvania, whether he has any knowledge of the misapplication of these funds, or any suspicion of their misapplication? Mr. McNair. I have a knowledge that the money has been drawn by the architect. He has drawn it; and there has been no return made by him for the disbursement. Mr. Woodward. I simply wish to suggest to the gentleman from Pennsylvania, that I did not expect a debate of this character would spring up. My inquiry was strictly as to the business before the committee, and related to the manner of constructing the wall. I never for a moment had the least suspicion of a misapplication of the funds, and I should be very glad if my friend would restrict himself to the matter of the construction of the wall. Mr. Florence, (Mr. McNair yielding the door. ) As the great object to be attained just now is, to arrive at a definite conclusion by which this House can vote to-day upon this bill, may I beg to ask my colleague from Pennsylvania, whether there has been a vote in that committee upon the subject of the wall? — whether there has been The Extensions. 471 any conclusion arrived at by the committee that may enable this House to arrive at a conclusion? — whether the whole of the committee agree with the chairman? — and further, whether experienced gentlemen — persons competent to judge of the strength of that wall, have not given certificates that it is adequate for the purposes for which it was built? Inasmuch as the chairman of the committee has been asked to give us information, and as we are all interested in knowing it, it is perhaps as well that he should state now whether such certificates have not been given. My reason for ask- ing it is, that I have understood from experienced persons that the wall is quite adequate for the purposes for which it is designed, notwithstanding the opinion. of the chairman of the committee,, who, perhaps, has no better practical knowledge on the subject than I have. Mr. McNair. I have told the gentleman, as I tell him now, that there has been no vote taken in the committee. I will tell him further, that I know nothing about any such certificates as he speaks of. Mr. Florence. I did not mean to say certificates. I meant to ask if there had not been such testimony before the committee. Mr. McNair. There has been such testimony, but there has also been contradictory testimony. After the testimony was all given, we went out and examined for our- selves. We formed our own opinions in regard to it, and have given them in full in the report. For my own part, T must say that I was very much disappointed, and I think the other members of the committee — if they are here — will say the same for themselves. Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky, (resuming.) Mr. Chairman, 1 was about to remark, when I was interrupted, that it had been the misfortune of all great men who had the genius and resolution to undertake works of this magnitude, to be harassed and annoyed by the criticism and censure of petty minds, who have not the capac- ity to comprehend or the skill to execute a great design. In this remark I do not allude to the gentleman from Pennsylvania, but I do allude to that description of meddlers who, from motives of disappointment at having failed to secure contracts on this work, come into this Hall to harass the House, and, I had almost said, to lead intelligent and honorable members of Congress into dilemmas, of which, when they learn the whole truth, they will be ashamed. Mr. McNair. Who are the}'? Mr. Stanton. Such men as your particular friend, Mr. Coltman, who, you said yourself, had been the instrument in bringing about this investigation. Gentlemen who have read the history of the construction of that great edifice on the north bank of the Thames, at Westminster, will recollect that Sir Charles Barry, the distinguished architect charged with the design and construction of the work, was annoyed at every step, from the time the first foundation stone was laid to the completion of the building, with special committees and investigations, like those we have authorized here, but which resulted in nothing but the complete vindication of the great architect and his noble. structure. Sir, the truth is, in all great undertak- ings of this magnitude, success is best accomplished by relying upon individual responsibility. You acted upon that jirinciple when you gave the President power to adopt the plan for the edifice, without other limit than his own discretion; and you must, to some extent, act upon the same principle in permitting him to complete it. You can delay, embarrass, and ruin the work, by listening to the idle clamor of the ignorant and the envious; but such a course will be more discreditable to you than to the President, the architect he has employed, or any one acting under them. The lamented Taylor would never have conquered at Buena Vista, nor Scott have taken the city of Mexico, if at every emergency these brave generals had been restrained and controlled by the unenlightened suggestions of the War Department. Nor will your new Capitol ever be creditable to the nation, if the work and the plans are changed and modified by the action of special committees, raised at the instance 472 Documentary History of the Capitol. of every stupid fellow who imagines that he sees a brick awry, or some small crevice not perfectly puttied up. I am rejoiced that this debate has arisen, because I had some curiosity to hear what the honorable member from Pennsylvania, [Mr. McNair,] who is chairman of the special committee, would have to say upon the subject of the foundations; and 1 wished to avail myself of the opportunity of expressing my own opinions on the subject freely and fearlessly. When I heard there were doubts as to the stability and firmness of these foundations, I confess I was amazed, for I could not conceive that any intelligent gentleman, who saw them as they presented themselves to the eye of everybody, could have any other opinion than that they were unnecessarily strong. I am glad, however, that the committee have made their investigation most thorough and complete; no matter what may be their conclusions when they take the sense of the members. They have not only, as we have been told by the chairman, dug into the center of the walls to test the quality of the work, but, I have been informed, they have employed an accomplished scientific gentleman of this city, (Professor Johnson,) at an expense of some $20 or $25 per day, to make extensive experimental tests of the solidity and strength of the gneiss rock of which these foundations are built, as well as of its capacity to resist the action of the atmosphere. Now, there is not a laborer engaged on these foundations — not even the most ignorant of them — who does not know that not a square inch of the surface of those walls will be exposed to the action of the elements. The outer surface will be cov- ered up by the earth, or the terraces which will surround it, and the inner surface by the arches or floors above it, so that no part will be exposed. The chairman of the special committee, [Mr. McNair,] in advance of the action of the committee, gives us his judgment as to the character of these foundations, and pronounces them shamefully defective. . Now, as to the character of the material: I happened to have a conversation with Professor Johnson as to the result of his experiments, in which he kindly gave me the facts which will follow. Mr. McNair. Was he upon his oath? Mr. Stanton. No, sir; but I presume his word upon this subject would be as good as his oath. Mr. Beale. He took six or seven specimens of stone from different parts of the building, so as to ascertain the average quality of the stone. Mr. Stanton. I shall state it all fairly, as I have no disposition to do any one injustice. The weakest and most inferior specimens of the stone used which could be found, when subjected to pressure, by accurate machinery for that purpose, bore a crushing weight of over 8,000 pounds to the square inch, or 1,152,000 pounds to the square foot. Now, the heaviest portion of the material of which the walls of the edifice will be built weighs only 175 pounds to the cubic foot; and as the building will be about 60 feet high, the weight which each square foot of foundation must sustain is only 10,500 pounds, or less than one hundreth part of what the walls are capable of sustaining, supposing the whole foundation to be built of the most inferior material. The best portion of the stone used bore a pressure of 20,000 pounds and over, or one and a half times more than the most inferior. Not one stone in a hundred used in the foundation, I am authorized to say, was of the inferior quality of the first speci- men to which I have referred; and taking a medium between the worst and the best, as the proper average quality of the stone used, and these foundations, so much decried, are really capable of bearing, according to scientific demonstration, 2,450,000 pounds to the square foot, or two hundred and thirty-three times more than is actually required. These are some of the results which had been obtained by the gentleman referred to, at the time of our conversation. They certainly will be conclusive, to all unprej- udiced minds, as to the strength and durability of the stone. 473 The Extensions. I have no information as to the result of his experiments to test the capacity of the stone to stand atmospheric action. They had not been completed at the time referred to. But I care not what may he the result. My own practical experience teaches me that the stone is sufficiently strong, solid, and durable, for any purpose of the kind. I agree with the learned Professor, that these experiments can be of no prac- tical value, for the reasons above stated, and that this part of the investigation had as well been dispensed with. They are only a waste of genius and of time. But the chairman of the investigating committee has told us, with great gravity, that he went to one of these foundation walls, with pickaxe and crowbar in hand, and dug up a portion of it; that, to his great surprise, he found his worst anticipations realized. The wall, he alleges, is built of small stone and bad mortar, and is insuffi- cient to sustain the structure to be erected upon it. Now, let me disclose a secret in regard to this digging operation. The honorable chairman satisfied himself by digging in a single spot, and that spot happened, fortunately, for the purpose of the gentlemen, to be just where the workmen terminated their labors. Now, it is known to all prac- tical men, that in building either brick or stone walls, there will necessarily be an accumulation of pieces of brick or small stone as the work progresses. These must be worked in, and it is economy to use them in “filling in,” or “leveling up.” This happened to be the case at the spot where the honorable gentleman used, so suc- cessfully, his pickaxe and crowbar. I suppose some sagacious person, knowing the zeal of the honorable gentleman, informed him of these facts; and he availed him- self of the information, and made his assault upon the stone and mortar accordingly. Mr. McNair. I have received no such information. No one ever told me that the small stones were in that particular place. Mr. Stanton. Oh, well, I only supposed it might be so. It happens, however, to be the fact, that this identical spot was the last part of the building worked upon, and these small stones were used up at that place as matter of economy. But these stones, so torn out of the wall, are not small stone, and could not from their use impair the strength of the foundation. They average from six inches in length to two feet, and I have seen many a solid and substantial wall built of stone of no greater size. Many of the best and oldest buildings in the world rest upon foun- dations built of pebbles, broken rock, and small pieces of stone or brick. I have taken some extracts from the “Transactions of the British Architects,” which will show the extent to which this mode of building has been carried in past ages: In Greece, the foundations of all the very early fortifications were formed of small stones. Some of the walls of the stronghold at the pass of Thermopylae are constructed of small stones and mortar. Thucydides, describing the way in which the walls surrounding the Acropolis had been restored after the Persian war, about 478 years before Christ, says the foundations consisted of stones of all sizes and forms thrown in indiscriminately. These still remain, and are so hard as to be almost impenetrable. The Romans constructed their walls of two faces of masonry filled in with cement, consisting of pounded bricks, or tiles, rough stones, or flints, and lime well incorporated. There are examples at Messina, wherein fact the walls surrounding the town, erected 370 years before our era, are wholly of this description. At Rome, it was everywhere used; the temple of Augustus, the baths of Agrippa, of Titus, and of Diocletian, the Colliseum, the Aqueducts, St. Peters, and many others serving as instances. The well known wall of China, built about 205 years before Christ, was constructed in a somewhat similar manner, and notwithstanding numerous vicissitudes, is still wondrously strong, discovering no signs of ruin. The Romans brought their arts to England, and there practiced them. The foundations of the Roman Station, Aldborougli, Yorkshire— the upper parts of which are formed of round pebbles united by a strong cement — and of some portions of Severn's wall, consists of rough stone and pebbles, compacted in clay; while in several instances we find they used perfect concreted masses of gravel, sand, or pounded bricks and lime, precisely similar to the concrete of our day. The walls of Aldborougli Church, Yorkshire; the tower of Earls Barton Church; that of St. Peter’s Church, at Barton upon Humber, Lincolnshire, and a building at Warmford, Southamptonshire, all of which, in the opinion of several antiquaries, are composed, some of round pebble stones united by mortar, and others of rubble stone and flints well grouted; they are still of amazing solidity, and appear to defy time. 474 Documentary Ilhtory of the Capitol. Sir Christopher Wren discovered that the foundation of St. Paul’s Cathedral, upon which had stood an imposing pile destroyed by the great fire, was composed of a mass of Kentish rubble stone, cemented with extremely hard mortar. The foundation of the north transept of Westminster Abbey, built in 1245, is composed of flints, irregular stones, rubble, and mortar, forming a body almost impenetrable. The foundations of the public buildings in Westminster, the law courts, the additional buildings to the House of Lords, the Library of the House of Commons, &c., were formed of granite, or other hard stone, broken in small pieces, (none exceeding in size an ordinary hen’s egg,) and laid in layers closely rammed and grouted; every third layer of Dorking lime and sharp river sand. The new Parliament House of Great. Britain, recently built, rests upon foundations ten feet seven inches in height, composed entirely of concrete. On this mass of small stone, broken up for the purpose and grouted, the walls of that massive structure are erected; and yet our ears are stunned with the cry, that, the stone in these founda- tions are not large enough to give it. proper strength. This fact, in regard to the foundations of the work at. Westminster, 1 learn from the reports of the architect. I happened to mention it. a few days ago in the presence of some of the workmen lately engaged on the Capitol, when two of them informed me that, the report stated the matter correctly, for they had each worked upon these very foundations. The walls laid, and which are the objects of daily observation by the members of this House, are subjects of admiration to every scientific and practical man who has seen them. Such solidity, such strength, and such admirable skill in their construc- tion, have never been manifested before in any work done in this city, and I doubt whether better work of the kind can be found in any part, of the Union. Yet. we are told by the honorable chairman of the special committee that the walls are of no value, and should be torn up. I am astonished at the conclusion to which he has arrived. It makes me blush for the intelligence of my fellow-members on this floor upon matters of such a practical character. When gentlemen see the report of the special committee, if the evidence accompanies it, they will find that some of the most scientific engineers and architects in the nation — indeed I might say the world — as well as the most experienced practical men, have testified, after examining the work, that it is of sufficient strength and solidity to bear an infinitely greater weight than can possibly be put, upon it. The mortar of which these walls are built is said not to be of good quality, because it has not, yet hardened. The fact that such a complaint is made, is proof only that there are men intrusted with the legislation of this country, who are lamentably deficient in those practical matters which are familiar to the commonest of men. Who, in his sober senses, could imagine that mortar in the center of a thick wall — seven feet thick — exposed to the severity of a rigorous winter, and only two months laid, would be now dry and hardened? The very best mortar ever used could not have hardened in such a situation in so short a time. Twenty years will not, suffice to make it as dry and solid as it will become; and every practical, as well as scientific man, knows that, it is better it should be so. Ask the common laborer who has been accustomed to attend upon masons, and he will tell you, that the longer the process of evaporation continues, the stronger will be the adhesion of the mortar. It is a fact so well demonstrated by the experience of those who are accustomed to work in mortar, that, it needs no scientific experiments to prove it. The fact, then, that in digging into these foundations the mortar was found not to be dry and hard, is no evidence that it is of bad quality. On the contrary, I assert, without fear of contra- diction by any man of intelligence on the subject, that the mortar is as good as could have been made. It is made of good lime, clean, sharp sand, and mixed in proper proportions. The practical and scientific, men who have examined it., concur with me in opinion, and ridicule the folly which pronounces it of bad quality. I hold in my hand some of the mortar, taken from the very place in which the honorable gentleman tore up the wall. The Extensions. 475 Mr. McNair. That is not as it was taken out of the wall. Mr. Stanton. It was taken from that very place in the wall, and nothing has been added to it but water. The action of the atmosphere has dried it — that is all. It dried because it was thus exposed. How, in the name of all that is reasonable, could it be expected to dry in so short a time, if it had remained in the center of a wall seven feet thick. Near the earth, too, where there was more likely to be absorption of moisture, rather than evaporation, the probabilities were all against its drying. Indeed, from my practical knowledge of mortar, having worked in it for twelve years, I should have doubted the quality of this, had it not been just as it was. The honorable gentleman says these walls are a mere shell on the outsides, and filled up with small stone and bad mortar in the center. I have shown how they are built; but even if it were as the gentleman seems to think they are, I cannot see how they could even then be liable to bulge or press out. Every one knows that walls are not so liable to split as to crack cross-wise. They crack cross-wise because of the inequalities of the foundation. But, these walls will be so sustained on the outside by the earth, and on the inside by the cross walls and the arches, that it will be impos- sible for them to give way by splitting or bulging. Mr. McNair. Will the gentleman permit me to ask him a question? Mr. Stanton. With pleasure — as many as you may choose to ask. Mr. McNair. 1 desire to ask if a certain very interesting article, which appeared not long since, did not supply you with information on this subject? Mr. Stanton. I do not know to what article the gentleman alludes. The extracts I have given are obtained from books; the rest I derive from my own practical experience, which I think qualifies me to speak of subjects like this with some knowledge more than the gentleman possesses, even after the advantage he has had of this very important investigation. A Voice. How many applicants for contracts were there from Pennsylvania? Mr. Stanton. I do not know how many from Pennsylvania have applied for con- tracts; but this I am informed is true, that disappointed applicants for contracts have been active in stimulating this investigation. I believe some of them were before the committee, and I suppose were the persons who attempted to throw doubt upon the stability of the work. The gentleman takes exception to the fact that the architect of the edifice, Mr. Walter, has control of the funds used. I cannot see that this is any part of the duty conferred upon the committee by the House, which clothed them only with power to inquire into the sufficiency of the foundations. But it is an exception to the law and not to the President, and ought to have been taken two years ago. Congress gave the President power to adopt the plan, and money to carry it out, with instructions that the money should be expended under his direction, “by such architect as he might appoint.” Congress now has no right to complain of the action of the President in this respect, nor in regard to the adoption of the plan. If he has transcended what Congress now supposes to be a reasonable limit, it is the fault of Congress. It was in our power to have restrained him. We might have required him to present his plans and estimates to us for our adoption or rejection, but we did not think it proper to do so. We bade him take the responsibility, and he obeyed our command. I think he has acted wisely in adopting a plan, which, while it affords room enough, is not extravagant in cost, and will, in its architectural design and perfection of arrangement, reflect credit upon the nation. Our population, our territory, our resources, have increased with unexampled rapidity. Who can calcu- late their extent, when another half century shall have passed? The edifice we are now constructing is not for ourselves alone, but for posterity; and I am happy to say that in the after ages of the Republic it will most nobly illustrate the genius and power of the present. It is beautiful in design, perfect in its proportions and arrange- ments, and not too magnificent for the Capitol of thirty-one American States. 476 Documentary History of the Capitol. The gentleman, in his zeal to defeat the continuance of the work, thinks proper to assail the architect in regard to the expenditure of the money, and charges that he has not accounted for that placed in his hands. The money is drawn from the Treas- ury upon his requisition, according to law, and not otherwise. Every cent so drawn has been honestly and faithfully accounted for. If the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. McNair] does not know it, I can tell him that the accounts of the architect are so kept, that any man can see in a moment the condition of the whole account, and learn the disposition of every dollar of the money. I will say to the honor of Mr. Walter, that if all other disbursing officers of the Government were as faithful and accurate in their accounts and disbursements, you would hear of no complaints about defalcations and corruption. The $100,000 heretofore appropriated have been ex- pended, and I am gratified to have it in my power to say judiciously expended. An immense amount of work has been done for that amount of money. Look at the immense excavations at each end of the Capitol — the great number of cubic perches of stone bought and laid — and other materials accumulated. And not one cent of this money, says the honorable gentleman, has been accounted for. Why, sir, I was about to say that this charge was so unjust to Mr. Walter, and would be so little believed by any one who knows him, that it was scarcely worth denying. But, if he really has doubts upon the subject, let him go to the Comptroller’s office of the Treasury, and he will see that every cent has been faithfully and honestly accounted for. Every man must be sensible of the great importance of the proposed improvement, and I am only surprised that the representatives of the nation, who have year after year seen the great inconveniences of legislation arising from the miserably defective construction of this House, did not sooner direct it to be commenced. I need say nothing of this Hall, the very worst in the world for purposes of deliberation. Its defects are too palpable not to be seen and felt by every member. Large and com- modious as the building may seem, it does not contain more than one half as many committee rooms as are needed for the use of the two Houses. In many of them the committees are doubled, some of the committees have no rooms, and it frequently occurs that special committees cannot be accommodated without seriously interfer- ing with the duties of others. And how are the officers of the House accommo- dated? They are crowded into the smallest rooms, and scarcely more than half the space necessary for the prompt and proper dispatch of business. The library room of the House is ill shaped, irregular, and not much larger, or convenient, than a good-sized rat hole. The document room is but little better, and both seem to have been made for any other purpose than that to which they are applied. Neither the Postmaster nor the Sergeant-at-Arms, has more room than is usually allotted to the barkeeper on a steam-boat. All this is discreditable to a great nation like ours, and affords abundant reason for the immediate progress of an improvement, which will afford greater conveniences for the legislative department of the Government. I hope this appropriation will be made. I deem the investigation to be made by this committee as of very little importance. Indeed, I know no practical man — I had almost said, no sensible man — will so hazard his reputation as to insist that those foundations shall come down. Who has complained of them, and of what is the complaint made? It arises from the disappointment of men who sought contracts and did not get them, and applies to a single spot ten or twelve feet long and two feet deep in one of the walls upon the south side of the House. I understand there is no sort of objection to the foundation upon the other side of the building — none in the world. If the gentleman having charge of this matter had taken the trouble to walk fifty feet further, he would have seen a portion of this work unfinished, just as it was laid up by the hands of the workmen, and instead of coming here and complain- ing that there are no large stones in that foundation, he would have told us that he saw them jutting almost entirely through the wall. I appeal to the gentleman from The Extensions. 477 Pennsylvania [Mr. McNair] to say, if upon that side of the building there are not large stones running through the whole wall? Mr. McNair. There are large stones running nearly through the wall; and I believe they were put up there for the purpose of making a show. When we came to dig into the wall, we found no stones running through it. Mr. Stanton. That shows the state of feeling under which the chairman of the special committee is acting. Why could he not state the simple fact, without throw- ing in the remark that “they were put up for show?” for if he had been destitute of all prejudice and feeling, and had not the interest of others who have instigated this investigation, to sustain, as well as his own reputation, for having begun it, would not the mere declaration of fact have been sufficient? Now, sir, I say that that wall was laid before the gentleman came to the city of Washington. Mr. McNair. I have no interest in this thing. Mr. Stanton. How in the name of common sense could the men when at work upon that part of the wall, have anticipated that the honorable gentleman from Pennsylvania, [Mr. McNair,] when he came here, would have been set on to com- mence a crusade against the foundations of this building? That work was done long before the honorable gentleman came here, and it remains now just in its unfinished condition, and in the best condition possible to test the quality of the work. Now, sir, I venture to assert that he will not say that that wall is not strong enough. Mr. McNair. I will. That is my opinion. Mr. Stanton. Well, I am very glad to hear that, for it is in keeping with all the results of the judgment you have manifested here to-day. Now, sir, this part of the wall torn down by the committee, was “leveled up” as the base for larger stone, and “leveling” is a technical term with masons, simply indicating the bringing of the wall to a level surface, in order that you may have a bed for larger stone to rest upon, or for other purposes. In this process of “leveling up,” small stones are needed and necessarily used, and this is known to all practical men, if not to the chairman of the committee, created to pass judgment upon the labor of skillful and experienced operatives, who could have no motive or interest to make other than a good job. I have been instructed to offer this amendment by the Committee on Public Build- ings, who think that the appropriation should be made and the work completed with all possible speed consistent with its proper execution. The Secretary of the Interior, in his letter to the Committee of Ways and Means, and the Architect, in his annual report, estimated §350,000 as the sum to be expended during the present fiscal year ending June 30, 1852, and §650,000 for the subsequent year, ending June 30, 1853. The appropriation provided for by the amendment, extends to June 30, 1853, and is only half the sum asked for by the Secretary and Architect, a large por- tion of the time having elapsed in which the amount of their estimates would have been expended. I earnestly hope the House will pass the resolution and permit the work to proceed. The appropriation is needed, must be made, and the sooner the better. In conclusion, I will simply say, that no matter what may be the character of the report of the special committee, the money will be required, and the appro- priation should be made. Mr. Brown, of Mississippi, obtained the floor. * * * The chairman of the committee reported that the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union had, according to order, had under consideration the state of the Union generally, an 1 particularly joint resolution No. 2, providing for the continuation of the work on the extension of the Capitol, and had come to no conclusion thereon. Mr. Clingman. I move the usual resolution, that all debate in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union upon the subject last before it shall cease in half an hour after that committee shall have resumed its consideration. [Cries of “No!” “No!”] 478 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. McLanahan. Is that motion debatable? The Speaker. It is not. Mr. McLanahan. Well, I hope the House will not pass it. Mr. Houston. Mr. Speaker [Cries of “Lay it on the table!”] Mr. Houston. I do not want to lay it on the table, for I am in favor of the resolu- tion. But I will suggest to the mover whether, as there was a member upon the 1 floor when the committee rose, the House have the right to take from him his hour. I hope the time will at least be prolonged, so as to cover that speech. Mr. Clingman. I have no doubt of the right of the House to stop debate, for it is usually done when somebody is entitled to the floor. I will modify the resolution, to extend the time to one hour, however, if gentlemen desire it, and upon that motion I call the previous question. Mr. Ficklin. I would suggest to the gentleman from North Carolina, that the gen- tleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. McNair] has not been heard in reply. Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky. My speech was in reply to his. Mr. Stephens, of Georgia. I move that this House do now adjourn. The question was put, and the House refused to adjourn. Mr. McMullin. Is it in order to move that the resolution to close debate do lie upon the table? The Speaker. It is. Mr. McMullin. I submit that motion. Mr. Stanly. Upon that motion I demand the yeas and nays. The resolution was then reported, as follows: Resolved , That all debate in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union upon the resolution of the Senate No. 17, to provide for the construction of the work on the extension of the Capitol, shall cease in one hour after its consideration is resumed; and if the committee shall not come to a con- clusion sooner upon the same, it shall then proceed to vote upon such amendments as shall be pend- ing fir offered to the same, and shall then report it to the House with such amendments as may have been agreed upon by the committee. Mr. Fitch. If the debate be closed by the resolution, will the gentleman from Pennsylvania, the chairman of the select committee, [Mr. McNair,] be entitled to an hour under the rule to close the debate? The Speaker. He will not; but the gentlemen from Kentucky, the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, who reported the bill, will be entitled to an hour. The yeas and nays were then ordered; and the question being taken, the result was — yeas 78, nays 102 — as follows: * * * So the resolution was not laid on the table. ■*■ * * [House proceedings of liar. 13, 1S5‘2: Congressional Globe, 32—1, p. 738.] THE EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL. The House accordingly resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, (Mi-. Seymour, of Connecticut, in the chair.) The Chairman. The first business in order is the special order, being “Senate joint resolution No. 2, authorizing the architect of the Capitol to continue in employ- ment the mechanics, laborers, and others, employed upon the two wings thereof,” upon which the gentleman from Mississippi [Mr. Wilcox] is entitled to the floor. Mr. Duncan. If the gentleman from Mississippi would giveaway for a few minutes while I make an explanation in reference to the bill now under consideration, I would be obliged to him. The Extensions. 479 Mr. Wilcox. I will .say to my honorable friend that I will reserve sufficient time in which he may say all that he desires, and ask that I may have notice from him. * * * Mr. Beale next obtained the floor, and said: Mr. Chairman, I feel impelled, for the first time in my life, although I have been a member of this House for many years, to intrude some few observations upon the attention of this committee. There is a bill lying upon your table, which proposes an appropriation of §500,000 for the continuation of the wings of the Capitol. A select committee was appointed, early in this session, whose duty it was to examine into the permanence, stability, and quality of the foundation work to support the superstructure that is intended to be put upon it. Now, sir, I hold that the House ought to know what are the senti- ments of that committee, because if they do not, they will legislate in the dark in relation to the appropriation of a very large amount of money. That, and that alone, impels me to give the information which I possess on the subject. I hope I shall be pardoned for referring to the observations which the gentleman from Kentucky [Mr. Stanton] made on yesterday in relation to this subject. That gentleman gave us his learning in architecture, and told us of his long experience as a mechanic, and he chose to depreciate the talents and probity of the committee. Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky. I beg the gentleman’s pardon; I depreciated neither the talents nor the probity of the committee. Mr. Beale. The gentleman was present, I think, when the excavations were made in the wall, and I, too, was there, and he observed on yesterday, that the committee were men of such diminutive structure of mind and feeling, that they were capable only of observing specks and blots upon thegreat superstructures of genius and talent. [Laughter.] Now, whether I come within this lamentable category, I will not deter- mine. I am willing that my position in this House should be judged by those who have known me since I have been here. I make no pretensions to talent, but I do make pretensions to probity. Permit me, sir, in a very succinct manner, to say what I know in relation to the examinations which have been made by the committee, and which I think the House should know before they vote an appropriation of §500,000 for continuing the work on the wings of the Capitol. The condition of my mind when I came to this work, was this: upon a survey of the outward appearance of the wall, I had two objections to it; the first was, that I thought the stone was too small for the magnitude of the wall, and the second was, that there were very many long lines of stone running longitudinally with the wall, which did not appear to me to have breakers to sustain them. Well, sir, this matter was inquired into by the committee. We had architect, builders, masons, and ail that description of persons before us, and they all agreed on several great facts. The first was, that the best wall which could be built, was of hewn stone, where each strata should be laid down with a little mortar on top, and the next strata breaking against it. That was the best wall that could be built. The next best wall that could be built, was where there were leaders and stretchers run across the wall, and that in the next strata heavy stones should be laid upon the junctions and smaller stones upon the superficial area. That is the next best wall that could be built. There was particular inquiry made in the committee as to the mode in which this wall had been built up, and the universal opinion was that it was safely built and in the manner last indicated. We had the evidence of archi- tects, builders, and masons — men who were not interested in the work, who had bid for it and been disappointed of getting employment, who swore to the durability and excellence of the wall. Well, sir, I must confess, such is my confidence in human nature, that my objections were removed, especially when on speaking to Mr. Walter, the architect, in relation to these long lines of stone running longitudi- nally with the wall, he asked me “did you ever know a wall to crack longitudinally? Does it not always crack at right angles?” 480 Documentary History of the Capitol. But, sir, the committee made an excavation some ten or twelve feet long, and from two and a half to three feet deep, and that excavation realized the worst anticipa- tions that could possibly have been formed. There Avas a stone running along the outside of from six to twelve or fourteen inches thick, and the middle was filled up with rubble and angular stone, with bad mortar, presenting actually the worst char- acter of wall that could have a decent outside appearance. Now, I do not pretend to say that this foundation will not support a structure of four feet five or six inches of solid marble, let it be thirty -odd feet high; but I do say, that if this Avail is like the part that Ave examined, it would be extremely doubtful whether it could support such a structure. That is my opinion, founded upon the facts which have come before us and upon the examinations we have made. The swearing is all in one way, the facts the other way. In relation to the employment of a scientific man, that Avas at my suggestion. I did not knoAv the quality of the stone. It is not common in the part of the country in Avhich I live; and although the gentleman from Kentucky found fault with the committee for employing that gentleman, I hope it will be vieAved by the committee as an honest effort on our part to acquire the information necessary to arrh 7 e at a correct judgment. Mr. Duncan. I am very happy to obtain the floor for a few minutes, in order that I may remove an erroneous impression Avhich probably exists in the minds of this committee from the representations made, inadvertently, perhaps, by the gentleman from PennsyMania, [Mr. McNair,] the chairman of this select committee. That gentleman stated yesterday, and he is so reported in the papers this morning, that the committee had examined the walls for themselves, and had come to the opinion, from that examination, that these foundations Avere in a dreadful condition. Mr. Chairman, I am one of that committee, and I dissent entirely from that state- ment. I ha\ 7 e formed no such opinion. I have attended every meeting of that committee; I haA 7 e heard all the testimony, and have taken it at length in Avriting. I am not now going into a detailed discussion in relation to this testimony; but this I state: The committee have not, to my knowledge, had any meeting of conference since that excavation of the Avail to Avhich the gentleman alludes, nor have they exchanged opinions at all, to my knoAvledge, in relation to the subject as a commit- tee. At the close of the examination of Avitnesses, it seemed to be the unanimous impression on the minds of all the members present, that the testimony conclusively showed that the foundations Avere adequate to sustain any Aveight Avhich may be placed on them. Notwithstanding this, the chairman of the committee expressed a desire that the committee should investigate the Avails themselves — dig into them. I differed Avith him upon that point. I thought it was not befitting for a committee of this House, clothed Avith unlimited power to send for persons and papers and to examine Avitnesses, to go out and dig into this green Avail, surrounded by a company of men and boys. I did not gh T e my assent to the examination. I did not believe it was necessary, and I did not attend that examination. But since that time I have carefully examined that excavation, and my opinion still remains the same — it is not changed in the least. And, sir, I dissent also from the statement made by the gentleman, that the outer sides of the Avail Avere mere shells, and the inside filled with small stones. I meas- ured the sides of the Avail, and found in each, stones more than tAvo feet in length projecting inward, and many of the stones thrown out of the wall, were from one to two feet long, it is true that in that particular place a large proportion of the stones Avere small, but the best architects tell us that a Avail built of such material, with a suitable proportion of binding stone stretching across the Avail, or nearly so, at suit- able distances, say once in twenty feet would be sufficiently strong to sustain any superstructure. That it would be stronger than a Avail built entirely of large stones, unless these Avere carefully hammered and fitted, an expense which is never incurred The Extensions. 481 in foundation walls. And the committee should know that the wall, which was the subject of examination, is leveled up to receive windows four feet in width, and dis- tant from each other seven feet, and the wall between them will be carried up with larger stones, and at the surface of the ground is to receive, according to the plan, a block of granite fifteen inches thick and four feet in width. Now, I say to this House that if any reliance can be placed upon testimony, — testimony the most intelligent, the most impartial, and the most reliable that can be obtained — then the foundations of this extension are amply sufficient to sustain a greater weight than they will be required to bear — that they are better foundations than those of any public building in this city — better than those of any public building ever erected in this country; and we have such testimony. But, as I said before, my opinion is not changed by this accidental excavation into this green wall. I objected to this mode of examination, because it did not accord with my views of propriety. I do not set up my views as a standard for other gentle- men. They may be better able to judge of such things than I am. But I will say that the examination made by this special committee does not in the slightest degree shake my confidence in this work. Now, as to the quality of the stone of which the foundations are composed, we have had it tested and the learned professor, who applied the test, says that it is not only capable of sustaining the weight of the superstructure that is to be placed upon it, but that it is capable of sustaining a pressure one hundred times as great. And all the architects who examined the foundations concurred in the opinion that they were capable, at least, of sustaining ten times the weight that is proposed to be placed upon them. So much for the material. Now, as to the lime. It was testified that the lime used from Seeley’s mountain, was the best lime in the country; that it is used upon the public works by Gen- eral Stuart, the Chief Engineer of the United States, in preference to any other. But it is not to be expected that this mortar bedded two feet in the wall, placed there since the commencement of this session of Congress, with severe frosts every night, should become dr)- by this time. If it had it would only have proved, accord- ing to the best authorities upon the subject, its inferiority. But let me go further. This work was all done by the day. Every man employed on it was employed in that manner. Is there any assignable motive that could have induced these men to have laid up the walls hastily, carelessly, or inadequately? Again, the principal architect holds the highest rank in his profession. He has probably had a larger experience in the erection of costly edifices than any other man of his age in the United States. It will satisfy gentlemen in regard to his com- petency to perform the work assigned him, to be told that the Girard College, in the city of Philadelphia — that grand and massive structure — was erected under his superintendence. And the superintendents under him are men of the largest experience, fully competent for the discharge of their duties, and were constantly present during the progress of the work. And gentlemen of this city — archi- tects — who testified before the committee, stated that they knew many of the masons employed, and that they were good and faithful workmen. Now, what conceivable motive could these men have had to slight this work? I should hesitate to set up my opinions in this case against those of practical and scientific men. And if this committee, on conferring together, had expressed doubts of the stability of the work, I would have proposed that they should submit their excava- tion in the wall to the examination of some of the most intelligent and practical of the gentlemen who were called to testify, before they ventured, on their own judg- ment, to report that these walls were insufficient, and in a dreadful condition. And I greatly regretted that the chairman of the special committee saw fit to introduce a statement, apparently designed to awaken the distrust and prejudice the minds of H. Rep. <146 31 482 Documentary History of the Capitol. members. With what other view did he state that the money appropriated was drawn and disbursed by the architect, and how , he did not know; “and that the mat- ter deserved inquiry?” Sir, if the architect disburses the money, it is because the law makes it his duty. The committee did not deem it their duty to investigate how and for what the appropriation had been disbursed. If they had made the inquiry, they would have found it properly expended and duly accounted for, every cent. Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky. Will the gentleman from Massachusetts allow me to interrupt him for a moment? I hold in my hand a letter from the Comptroller of the Treasury — Mr. Whittlesey — to the architect, dated the 10th of February, in which he says all the money has been accounted for. I ask that the letter may be read. The letter was read, as follows: Treasury Department, Comptroller's Office, February 10, 1852. Sir: Your account for the extension of the Capitol from August 2d to the 31st December, 1851, has been adjusted at the Treasury, and a balance of $3,494.98 found to be due from you to the United States, which agrees with your account. Very respectfully, Elisha Whittlesey, Comptroller. Thomas U. Walter, Esq., Architect for the Extension of the Capitol. Mr. Duncan. The architect very freely submitted to the committee his books, con- taining proposals and bids, his contracts, and all the papers connected with the work; and would, with equal freedom, have submitted a statement of expenditure, if they 7 had requested it. That architect was a stranger to me until the present session; but I do not hesitate to say that in ability, in fidelity, and in integrity, he is not surpassed by any man in the United States. I would as readily place the dis- bursement of all the money necessary to the completion of this Capitol in his hands, as in the hands of any man or set of men that could be selected to perform that trust. But this is a matter which depends altogether on the law of Congress. They can place that disbursement where they see fit. Before I sit down, I wish to say a word about the appropriation proposed by the amendment of the gentleman from Kentucky. During the last Congress, different opinions were entertained in regard to the expediency of making the proposed enlargement of the Capitol; but that Congress decided to undertake the work, and voted an appropriation for its commencement. The work has been begun; a large sum has been expended; and I presume it will go on. I presume no one is prepared to say that the design shall now be abandoned. It should, then, be prosecuted with as much expedition as is consistent with economy. Who wishes to see these beau- tiful grounds incumbered for years with rubbish? I believe that, in this case, expe- dition is economy. Let the work go forward. The season — the most favorable season in the year for work — has arrived; and the House should lose no time in making the requisite appropriation. Mr. Wallace. Mr. Chairman, I desire to say a few words upon the subject embraced in the special order, and in reply to the speech made yesterday by the gentleman from Kentucky, [Mr. Stanton. ] I am a member, sir, of the special com- mittee, which that honorable gentleman has honored with his notice, in his own peculiar manner. I was appointed a member of that committee without my knowl- edge, consent, or procurement, and contrary to my desire, and I have served upon it with reluctance, and from a sense of duty which I owe to this House as one of its members, and from what I conceived to be due to its presiding officer who placed me upon it. Until the gentleman from Kentucky delivered his extraordinary speech on yesterday, I did not feel myself called upon, at this stage of the debate, to express any opinion in reference to the sufficiency or insufficiency of the work ■which that committee has been directed to inspect, and to report the facts which may be elicited to this House. I had supposed that it would be time enough The Extensions. 483 for me to make my opinions known upon that subject when the report of the committee shall be before this House for its consideration and action. The course pursued by the gentleman from Kentucky has made it necessary for me to depart, in some degree, from that line of policy. In what I have to say, sir, 1 shall not imitate the example of the gentleman from Kentucky. I shall not seek to elicit the plaudits of any class of persons who may effect a lodgment in your galleries, for the purpose of influencing the acts and deliberations of this honorable body; nor do I intend to follow the gentleman from Kentucky through the mazes of his learned dissertation upon the mechanical structure and perfection of the Acropolis, the Colli- seum, and the Vatican, for the purpose of making a display of my architectural learn- ing as he has done. That honorable gentleman has my free assent and permission to go, whenever it may be agreeable to himto do so, with Volneyand Layard, overthe ruins of Greece and Rome, Memphis and Carthage, Nineveh and Babylon, and to make to his countrymen such report upon his discoveries as may be most agreeable to him; and I assure him that I shall not enter into competition with him for the honor to be acquired by his antiquarian researches into the dusty memorials of past ages. What I have to say relates particularly to the things of the present age. And, sir, I deny that that gentleman has the right, under the usages and sanctions of parliamentary law, to rise in his place here, and make a speech denunciatory of the opinions of a committee of this House, before such opinions have been pronounced and made known by that committee. Mr. Stanton. Will the gentleman from South Carolina allow me for one moment? Mr. Wallace. The gentleman from Kentucky has made his speeches here without interruption from me, and I do not intend to be interrupted by him. Mr. Stanton. Very well, I only wanted to state a fact. Mr. Wallace. What right has he, sir, to impute to me, as a member of that com- mittee, a set of opinions in reference to a matter of public concern, which is in part committed to my charge, before 1 have uttered any opinion upon the subject; and to make this gratuitous assumption the theme of a popular harrangue upon a sup- posed state of facts which may not, and as far as I am concerned do not exist, that he may thereby win for himself the approbation and applause of a particular class of persons who surround this Capitol? The gentleman from Kentucky seems to have assumed the peculiar championship of every person who has had the good fortune to aid in laying the foundations of the proposed additions to the Capitol; and his terrible lance is poised for a tilt with every ill-fated wight who comes in his way, whenever a leaf is heard to rustle in the gale. I shall not call his sympathy in this regard in question, or add my sympathies to his; but I say to him, sir, and to this House, that I shall repel in a proper manner any attempt on the part of that gentle- man to make any unwarrantable allusion to the manner in which my duties, as a member of this body, are discharged. When I shall express an opinion in regard to the work, which he seems to regard with such pious care, that opinion will then be a proper subject for comment, and not before; and I submit to this House, that the course of argumentation pursued by the gentleman from Kentucky is not sanctioned by parliamentary usage and parliamentary law, and is disrespectful to the committee which he has made the subject of his declamatory assaults, and to this House whose organ it is; and I say to that gentleman that I will permit no such liberties to be taken with me. What purpose can he have in view but to prejudge the judgment of that committee before this House and the country, and to forestall its action, if that action shall be contrary to the ideas he entertains of his own infallibility? What other end can he hope to accomplish by the course he has thought proper to pursue? Is a committee of this House to be reprobated in advance by that gentle- man’s display of architectural learning in reference to the cements and conglomerates of Babylon and Nineveh, in order to subdue their minds to his peculiar way of 484 Documentary IDstory of the Capitol. thinking. Must the committee be told before hand what they must do to escape his ire and propitiate his wrath? Would he, sir, give this house to understand that it must legislate to suit the wants of a class of persons Avho congregate around your Capitol? Sir, this House and the country may well be surprised at what has fallen from that gentleman since the present session began. He has thought proper to urge this House to vote immediate appropriations of money, for the chief reason that a class of persons in this city are out of employment. Doctrines like these may well excite alarm in the public mind. Are the doctrines of the French school of communism to be gravely urged in this House? Will this House entertain the proposition that any class of persons shall come here and demand that appropriations be made to furnish them with labor at the public charge? Now, Mr. Chairman, I am not aware that any member of the select committee, of which I form a part, is opposed to an immediate appropriation to carry on the work upon the Capitol which has been begun. The foundations are laid, and I presume no one absurdly supposes the work is to be discontinued. So far as I am concerned, the appropriations may be made to continue the work, no matter what the report of the special committee may be. But while I am willing to vote this appropriation, I desire to say that I will vote it that the work which has been begun may go on, and not because the class of per- sons who excite so much of the sympathy of the gentleman from Kentucky are out of employment. I do not recognize the right of any class of persons to come here in person, or by their representative, and demand that appropriations be made to give them employment. Such ideas, sir, as have been advanced upon this floor by the honorable gentleman from Kentucky should, in my judgment, be met by the unqualified reprobation of this House and the country. These ideas are but the reflex of those of the French school of communism and the right to labor, which erected the barricades in the streets of Paris in 1848, and from the destructive tenden- cies of which, France has sought present repose by the restoration of the Empire under the military rule of Napoleon II. Now, sir, I desire to do all I can to relieve the mind of the honorable gentleman from Kentucky from his distressing alarms, in reference to the imaginary rights of the persons whom he defends with such remarkable energy; and I assure him, sir, with the utmost sincerity, that I do not intend to go in the stilly hour of night, and burglariously run off with the countless tons of granite and gneiss, to which his friends have given order and design, for the foundations to the additions to the Capitol. Nor do I suppose that the special committee have any serious design to perpetrate such an act of Vandalism ; and I assure that gentleman that I do not believe, therefore, that it will be at all incumbent upon him to take his station upon those walls, and there to keep watch and ward to guarantee their sanctity, or to expose himself thereby to the buffetings of the bleak winds until the melancholy notes of the curfew shall summon him to his nightly repose. I hope I may con- tribute to the gentleman’s composure, by saying to him and to this House, that I shall interpose no obstacle to the prosecution of this work. Mr. Chairman, I desire to say that in reference to this work, I have no feelings of opposition to indulge. I have not been a constant attendant upon the deliberations of the committee, but I heard and took notes of the testimony until I was perfectly satisfied that the work is sufficient for the purposes for which it is designed, and up to a late day I was prepared to pronounce that judgment before this House. When a portion of the wall, however, was removed by' the direction of the honorable chairman of the committee, a state of facts was disclosed somewhat conflicting with the testimony upon which I relied most. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky. I propose to amend the amendment, by adding one dollar to the sum intended to be appropriated. I do it, not with a view that the amendment shall be adopted, nor for the purpose of saying anything in addition The Extensions. 485 to what I said yesterday in regard to the materials of which the foundations are con- structed or the character of the workmanship, but simply to afford me an oppor- tunity of replying to the excited remarks of the honorable gentleman from South Carolina, [Mr. Wallace,] who, it seems to me, has worked himself into an unneces- sary rage over what 1 said. Now, sir, if that gentleman will put himself to the trouble of referring to my speech, reported in the Globe of this morning, he will see that the remarks to which he takes such exception applied only to the chairman of the special committee, [Mr. McNair,] although from what the chairman had pre- viously said, I might, with much propriety, have embraced him [Mr. Wallace] in the same category. When I spoke, I did not even know that the gentlemen was a member of that committee; and if I ever did know it, it had been forgotten. He need not be disturbed with the idea that any portion of my remarks were intended for him, for he was furthest from my thoughts. I knew him to be a gentleman of great intelligence, as he has shown himself to be of fiery eloquence; and whether he had practical information or not upon the subject under discussion, 1 should have accorded to him too much judgment not to see that all the clamor which has been raised against this work, arising from the investigation which has been instituted, was unjust, as well as silly and ridiculous. I made no attack upon the members of the committee. If the gentleman listened to my speech he knows I did not. I intended none. I designed simply, in the remarks which I was about to submit to the committee, to explain the amendment which I had offered, and inform the House as to the necessity of the appropriation asked. If I had not been interrupted, I should simply have done this and taken my seat. But one of the gentleman’s colleagues [Mr. Woodward] interrupted me, by submitting a question to the chairman of the special committee, [Mr. McNair,] who rose in his place, made a speech, and led this House to believe that you, sir, enter- tained the same absurd opinions in regard to the foundations that he had expressed. Mr. Wallace. Which one of my colleagues does the gentleman refer to? Mr. Stanton. Mr. Woodward. The Chairman. Does the gentleman from Kentucky yield the floor? Mr. Stanton. Oh, yes; if he desires it. I shall be polite to him, and allow him to say what he wishes, though I could not. Now, sir, your chairman, the gentleman from Pennsylvania, was the first to allude to the action of the committee. He brought the subject up, and you have to thank him, not me, for associating you with the absurd conclusions to which lie had come. What did he say when appealed to by the gentleman from South Carolina [Mr. Woodward] to know when the com- mittee would report? I read from the report of his remarks: The investigation has been going on regularly, and WE are almost ready to report. He says “ we ,” which includes you with the rest of the committee, if T understand the meaning of the word. “ We have found the walls in a dreadful condition.” He is misrepresenting you, not me. We have found the walls in a dreadful condition — in a condition which has astonished us all. The word “we” is not broad and comprehensive enough, in the judgment of the speaker, to embrace the gentleman from South Carolina, [Mr. Wallace,] and he uses one of more enlarged signification, and says “us all.” When we came to examine it, we found that wall with shells built up on the outside, and small stones thrown in on the inside. Here, then, is the first intimation given to the House, that the committee designed to make any such foolish report as that language implies. I did not introduce any allusion to it until this development was made by the chairman, and I confined what I had to say to him alone. If he had not broached the subject, I should not have referred to it. I could not have thought that his intelligent colleagues would concur 486 Documentary History of the Capitol. with him in his strange conclusion as to the instability of the foundations, and there- fore meditated no attack upon the members of the committee, as the gentleman seems to suspect. I am happy to find, by the manifestations of to-day, that all the members do not concur with the chairman. This is all, sir, that I deem it necessary to say in reply to the gentleman from South Carolina. Mr. Chandler. Mr. Chairman, I rise to oppose the amendment offered by the gentleman from Kentucky, [Mr. Stanton.] Mr. Wallace. I will esteem it a favor, if the honorable gentleman from Pennsyl- vania will allow me five minutes to conclude what I have to say. Mr. Chandler. 1 am persuaded that I cannot do half the good that the gentleman from South Carolina can do, and I therefore yield the floor to him with great pleasure. Mr. Wallace. Mr. Chairman, I am much indebted to the courtesy of the gentleman from Pennsylvania, [Mr. Chandler.] When, by the rides of the House, my remarks were suspended, I was proceeding to say that the examination made of an interior portion of the wall disclosed a state of facts somewhat conflicting with the testimony upon which I placed the most reliance. It was stated by a witness, who was exam- ined before the committee, that the wall is solid masonry throughout. The investiga- tion which followed does not sustain that testimony, if I understand the true meaning of the witness. It appeared, upon examination, that a portion of the interior structure is composed of what is called “ rubble,” and mortar; that is, of small stones thrown in, without much attention to the order in which they are placed, and the interstices filled in with mortar or cement, with the view to form a conglomerate. I was upon the wall, sir, but a very short time. The examination was commenced when I was not present. I attended, with several members of the committee, at the time referred to, at the special request of the honorable chairman of the committee, [Mr. McNair,] and this House has been informed by the gentleman from Kentucky, that he, too, faithful to his trust, was with the spectators above, watching intently the progress of the investigation; and what he saw, doubtless gave point to the charac- teristic tirade which he pronounced here yesterday, and to which the honorable gentleman from Virginia [Mr. Beale] has just alluded. It is very natural that the gentleman from Kentucky should go wdiere his sympathies and associations lead him; and while he was surrounded, at the time and place referred to, by many of the per- sons whom he has so perseveringly sought to quarter upon the public Treasury, I can readily conceive that he was in a position entirely congenial to his taste, and am not surprised that the speech which followed should be pronounced as the result of the inspiration drawn from such an exalted source. When the examination of the wall was completed, my first impression led me to conclude that the work was insecure. In that opinion I was not confident. My reflections since that time have induced me to yield my doubts to the better judg- ment and greater experience of the able architect who has the work in charge. I have been assured by that gentleman, in presence of the committee, that the wall is sufficient to bear five times the weight of the superstructure that is to be built upon it. During the few minutes which I spent in company with that gentleman in the committee room, I formed a very favorable opinion of his ability; and I am informed, from the most reliable sources, that his personal integrity, sound judgment, experi- ence, and knowledge of architecture, are of the most satisfactory character. Nothing has been elicited by the action of the committee which, in my judgment, can author- ize me to come before this House and inflict a wound upon his character and good name, by declaring that he has, in any wise, been unfaithful to the trust confided to him. I will not trifle with his reputation by the commission of such an act. So far as I am made his judge, he shall have justice at my hands. I am prepared to yield whatever doubts I may hai^e entertained to the judgment of the architect, and to say to this House, that I believe the work is sufficient for the purposes for which it is designed. The Extensions. 487 It will appear from what I have said, that I do not concur in the opinion expressed yesterday by the honorable chairman of the committee, [Mr. McNair.] But acting upon the view of the matter which I have expressed, I suggested to the honorable chairman the propriety of going on to make his report by detailing the material facts which are in possession of the committee, and leaving the subject to the judgment of the House. I do not suppose that the Congress will act so absurdly as to commence a work of this kind, expend a considerable sum upon it, and then discontinue it. I see no reason why the work should not progress; and I am ready to vote any appropriation of money that may be necessary to prosecute it to its termination. Mr. Stanton, by unanimous consent, withdrew the amendment. Mr. Chandler. I then offer as an amendment, to add $2 to the sum of $500,000 con- tained in the bill. The whole business of regulating the additions to this Capitol is placed in, the hands of the architect; and the question is not whether the stones laid there are laid permanently, and according to our judgment, and whether the lime that is used is of the kind that ought to be used, but it is simply the question, is the person employed there competent to the work he has undertaken? Of that we have two modes of judging; one of the past, the other of the future. All the antecedents of that gentleman, sir, are in the affirmative. Every act of his life goes to prove that he is competent to the work he has undertaken, not simply as a finished mechanic and accomplished architect, but as an honest and conscientious man, who will not leave a work that he has undertaken unfinished, and will not declare that as good which he does not believe is good, although his own hand has performed it. In the course of my official relations with the city which I in part represent, I was called for many years into close connection with that gentleman, and although it would be impertinent in me to say that I know him to be an accomplished architect because his judgment and his action are superior to my judgment- or anybody’s action, I can only submit the work of his hands for other persons to decide upon, rather than my assurance or my certificate of his ability. I have watched his work. I know him as a man, as a citizen, as an architect, and as a man of business, and in all of these relations he stands preeminent among those with whom he is acquainted. It was in the performance of my official relations with that gentleman, that I looked almost daily upon the foundations of a building quite as heavy in its weight and in its cost as the wings of your Capitol will be. It has rested t wenty years upon the foundations which were then laid, and there is not beneath the Girard College a sign or evidence of the yielding of a single portion of the stone upon which they rest. These works, I think, are about twice as thick, twice as strong as the foundations to which I have alluded. I infer, therefore, they are capable of sustaining double the weight. In the remarks which I have to make, and which I consider as giving an opinion contrary to that of my colleague, the chairman of the special committee, [Mr. Mc- Nair,] I beg leave to state, my associations with him leave me not a doubt of the purity of his intentions and those of the other gentlemen of the committee ; but it is his misfortune to be at the head of a committee upon a subject with which he is not professionally acquainted; and it was the misfortune of the committee to be composed of gentlemen who did not claim a professional knowledge of the work in which they were to be engaged. It was of course expected they would call to their aid men of professional excellence — men competent to judge of the work before them. I think the testimony which has been adduced, by gentlemen free from all motives of partiality, was such as would satisfy the House of the competency of the work. I am happy to hear the remark that fell from the honorable gentleman from South Carolina, [Mr. Wallace,] that whatever may be the fate of a portion of that wall, which I believe competent, there should be no hesitancy at all about voting 488 Documentary History of the Capitol. for this appropriation. The work must go on ; and the sooner it is commenced, the sooner, I hope, it will be finished. I trust, therefore, [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Cartter. I am opposed to the last amendment of $2. Mr. Gentry. Oh! let them have it. [Laughter.] Mr. Cartter. I merely rose to remark, that it occurred to me all this discussion of the mechanical sufficiency or deficiency of this wall was a departure from the real danger to which the wall is exposed. It seems to be treated as a question of masonry — as a question of mechanics — and its capacity to sustain the superstructure that is intended to be erected upon it. Now, my opinion is, that the wall is suffi- cient, and will endure until it answers all the purposes that it will be required to answer. The danger is not as to the weight that it will have to sustain; the danger is not to mechanical forces; the danger lies in a far different quarter. It is more a question of locality. I do not think the wings are in the right place. [Laughter.] They are too near the eastern skirt of this empire; and I have no apprehension at all but that it will rest, mechanically, firmly upon its present foundation, and bear upon its surface the edifice you propose to place upon it, until the weight of empire transfers it to the center of the empire. You had better address yourself to that con- sideration; for the time is soon coming when the difficulty will be not in the weight upon it, but in keeping the foundation still. The foundations will partake of the the spirit of the Republic, and .make a western trip. I hope it will be Mr. Florence. May I ask a single question, as to whether that is the gentlemen’s idea of progress — that we are progressing from a Republic to an Empire? [Laughter. ] Mr. Cartter. I do not think I can make a “fogy” understand it, [laughter;] but I alluded, of course, to the empire of territory. Those gentlemen who travel in the “fog” are very diligent in taking distinctions. [Laughter.] All this inquiry about the mechanical structure of that wall is a work of supererogation. In my opinion, if the wall was not half as heavy as it is, it would endure all the weight it will ever have to sustain. The traveling qualities of those wings of the Capitol will be felt before they fall down. [Laughter.] The question was then taken upon the amendment of Mr. Chandler to the amend- ment, and it was rejected. Mr. Florence moved to amend by inserting “$4” after the words “$500,000.” Mr. Florence. I have been very much gratified this morning at the turn the debate has taken upon the question before the committee in relation to this appro- priation; but I have been pained to hear gentlemen reflecting, by remarks that have been made, upon persons occupying a peculiar sphere in society. Now, it occurs to my mind, that nowhere so much as upon the floor of this House do a certain class of people, as they have been termed, require defenders. There is no especial merit attached to the fact that a person is a working-man, so called; but it is especially becoming those living or being in that sphere of life, that they should defend others in the same sphere against indiscriminate attacks upon them. I do not appeal to the galleries; I do not refer to the fact that we are surrounded by persons urging Congress to make this appropriation; but I do say, here, that it becomes our duty, especially at this time, to make this appropriation, because the honor of this Union is involved. I will tell you that, when the first appropriation was made for the extension of the Capitol, the peculiar class of working-men required as operators upon it were very scarce. It is a trade that requires peculiar perfection, if I may be permitted to laud that class of people so much, particularly in a work of this kind. If I am correctly informed, and I believe I am, the superintendent of this work procured from Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York, and other cities and parts of the Union, excellent workmen; and they came here upon the assurance of that gen- tleman that the work should be continued to them, and that they should not be permitted to starve, as they have nearly been doing this most inclement winter, because Congress refused to make this appropriation. The distress that existed The Extensions. 489 among these workmen who were frozen up here, would make the hair of every member of this House stand upon end if it were 2’ecited. Mr. Hall. Will you vote them a farm? Mr. Florence. I am willing to do it. I am Avilling to vote land for the landless, and when the bill comes before the House, proposed by my friend from Ten- nessee, [Mr. Johnson,] my vote will be found recorded in its favor. But here are these workmen waiting, not upon the bounty of the Government, but asking that the pledges given them shall be fulfilled — that the assurance made them when they came here may be redeemed. And I feel a peculiar pleasure and pride that I am permitted to rise in my place upon this floor and say thus much for that most useful class of our citizens. I do not desire that they shall have special legislation, ( nor do they ask it,) but I do desire that they may have extended to them all the privi- leges and all the rights others enjoy. Mr. Henn. Who gave those assurances? Mr. Florence. I understand, and I stated it as clearly and distinctly as I could, that they were made by persons engaged by the Government. They, as they had a perfect right to, sought to get the best talent they could in that peculiar line, and the assurance was given to them of continuous employment. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Walsh. I propose to say just a word or two to correct an error which I think has been repeated this morning, and into which a gentleman from North Carolina, not now in his seat, [Mr. Venable,] fell on a previous day, and that was, that it had been asserted that it was the primary duty of this Government to give labor to men who were in want of it. There was no such demand try the friends of the extension of the Capitol, on the ground of primary duty. These men came here in the depth of winter, not knowing anything of the particular terms of this contract. They came here to engage in the erection of the Capitol, and, as the gentleman from Pennsyl- vania [Mr. Florence] said, were frozen up with their families. I say, without asserting a primary duty, that it presented as strong a case of appeal to the sympa- thies and right feelings of this House, as when you saw from your Capitol windows the burning edifices of Alexandria. It was a case, as I stated heretofore, appealing to the sympathies; but they did not appeal to the sympathies. There was no pretense of primary duty. These men came here under a certificate of the archi- tect, stating that they could be usefully employed by the Government. While gratifying a reasonable sympathy, we were not asked to violate any rule in reference to the contract they were called upon to make. This House, as I then suggested, should have been proud of the privilege of doing so. It has been said, by high authority, “that this world is a tough wrestler, who has a bear’s grip for the poor;” but it should be the proud privilege of every man, legislating for the great interests of the country, to remove the burden which always bears upon the back of the wayfarer upon this world. Now, a word or two more. I do not admit the rebuke set up by the gentleman from Tennessee, [Mr. Johnson,] the other day, and reiterated by the eloquent gentleman from South Carolina, [Mr. Wallace.] I do not know of any drawing-room rule which is to prevail here and control me under the responsibilities which I owe to my country and constituents. If I see a spectacle of distress in this gallery, which is under my jurisdiction, I shall refer to it, without consulting those rules of high-life which seem to be brought in here to direct legislative power. It is a pressing case — it is a case in which men, offered employ- ment when their employment was deemed to be necessary by those having the con- trol of the execution of this contract — presenting a spectacle of distress, as the gentle- man from Pennsylvania [Mr. Florence] has well said, almost unexampled, even to the view of men who have been accustomed to see all the fluctuations of poverty. Many of them are my own townsmen, accustomed to the ordinary comforts of life, which they procured by the sweat of their brow. They are now in the midst of your com- munity, and under circumstances of distress which were drawn upon them in conse- 490 Documentary History of the Capitol. quence of their discharge from employment. It is a case calling for the loudest and strongest sympathy in every human heart, and the heartiest expression of that sym- pathy by every human tongue. Mr. Obr. I do not propose to make a speech. I wish to give notice now, that when an amendment is moved hereafter I shall insist that the rules of the House be en- forced, requiring that gentlemen should confine themselves to explanations of the amendments they offer. Mr. Bkenton. I offer the following amendment: And that no contract, made in prosecution oh the work aforesaid, which shall in any way exceed the sum hereby appropriated, shall be binding upon the Government. I desire to see such an amendment as that attached to every bill which may be proposed to this House for appropriating money to public works; and I would not only desire to see it attached in form, but I would desire to see it putin practice from this time forth. We are called upon each year to pass a deficiency bill for the purpose of meeting expenditures made in connection with the public service — expenditures which exceed the amount, from year to year, that is appropriated. My object in offering this amendment is simply to keep every individual, connected with the expenditure and disbursement of public money, within the limits prescribed by law, and to hold them to strict accountability if they refuse to do so. Why is Con- gress called upon, in connection with the public service, to pass deficiency bills? It is because the expenses and disbursements have exceeded the amount appropriated. I do not design, at this time, to discuss this question; but I merely state that I desire to see this principle incorporated into every appropriation bill for the consideration of the House; and in future I desire to see all the officers of the Government, espe- cially those having charge of the public funds, held to the rule most rigidly. I hope this amendment will be attached to that appropriation. Mr. Clingman. I agree with the gentleman, and am in favor of the general principle he contends for, but there is no necessity for incorporating any amend- ment of that character with this bill. If there was any probability that this appro- priation would finish the work, why, for fear they might go beyond that appro- priation and involve us in a larger expenditure, I would vote for his proposition; but nobody imagines for a moment that this appropriation will finish the Capitol. Of course, in contracts that are hereafter to l ie made, the rule can be carried out in furtherance of the gentleman’s design. I have stated this as a reason for voting against the amendment now, although I approve the general principle. But my object in rising was to appeal to the gentleman not to press his amendment. There really seems to be nothing to discuss. Everybody agrees that this appropria- tion is necessary. If the walls are to be gone on with, as they now stand, the appropriation is needed. If they are to be pulled down, and stronger ones built, the appropriation is equally necessary. Why shall we not agree, by general consent, to let this bill pass, and upon the coming in of the report of the gentleman from Penn- sylvania [Mr. McNair] all these questions which have been thrown irregularly into this debate will naturally come up. It is Saturday, and I think it would be right for us to take half a day’s holiday, as much at least as we give to the negroes down South. I appeal to gentlemen to let this bill pass, and then by common consent adjourn. The question was then taken upon Mr. Brenton’s amendment, and it was not agreed to. Mr. Goodenow moved that the committee rise and report the bill. The Chairman. The pending question is upon the amendment proposed by the chairman of the committee, [Mr. Stanton.] [Cries of “ Question ! ” “ Question ! ” ] Mr. Mason. I offer the following amendment to the amendment: Provided, That the expenses incurred in testing the stone and other materials to be used in the construction of the work, shall be paid out of this appropriation. The Extensions. 491 The special committee have been testing the strength of the materials used in the construction of the foundation; and under the resolution of the House authorizing the committee to do it, I suppose the authority was involved to incur the necessary expense. It was a matter which was left wholly to their judgment. They have done so, and bills will come in. Some object to their being paid out of the contingent fund, and I offer this amendment, that these expenses may be paid out of the appro- priation of §500,000; and that the Committee on Accounts may have nothing to do with the matter. Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky. I hope this will not be done. Mr. Stanton, of Tennessee. I rise to oppose that amendment. I think the amend- ment is quite unnecessary, and is altogether irrelevant to this bill; and I make a question that it is not in order to pay the expenses of a select committee, which has been appointed by this House for the purpose of examining those foundations, out of the general appropriation, for the purpose of completing the building. I think the amendment is not in order. The expenses for which it provides are a part of the contingent expenses of this House, and ought to be paid out of the contingent fund. And it ought to be so, for the purpose of showing the House what is the expense of making such examinations, and of appointing such committees as have been appointed in this case. I mean no disrespect to the committee whatever; but the account of the contingent expenses of the House ought to show the expenses attendant upon its own action. This expense ought not to be charged to the fund for the completion of the Capitol. Upon this ground I think that the amendment ought to be rejected. The question was then taken, and Mr. Mason’s amendment was rejected. Mr. Floyd. I move to increase the expenditure §5. We have, during the last year, had an expenditure of §50,000,000. We are called upon now to pass a deficiency bill, amounting to several millions more. We have an estimate of the expenditures for the next year amounting to §42,000,000. Mr. Ore. I rise to a question of order. The rules of the House require, that when an amendment is offered, the gentleman proposing to speak upon that amendment must confine his remarks to the subject-matter of the amendment. The gentleman is not doing it. I made the announcement that I should make the question of order, and of course I shall carry it out. Mr. Floyd. I will vary my amendment, so as to strike out one half the r, reposed appropriation. I know of no estimate of expenditure that has come to us from the Departments which may be omitted with less injury to the public service, than the half million of dollars asked for by this bill. This Hall is not so badly arranged but what you can find an abundance of gentlemen who are willing to occupy it. Nor am I aware of any department of the public service that is to suffer by allowing these foundations to remain as they are for one, two, or five years. We have a debt, in a time of profound peace, of some §64,000,000, if I mistake not; and so we are going on granting every expenditure asked by this Administration — which certainly does not commend itself to the country by any very strict notions of economy — we are going on to grant every expenditure that is asked for, without ever making a begin- ning at reform or economy. It seems to me, we are acting in the dark upon this subject. This House have appointed a committee to investigate the capacity of the foundation, but it has not yet reported, although we have been told it may report next week. In the meantime, without the report of our select committee, we know not whether this foundation is safe or unsafe. We are proceeding to grant an appro- priation to erect a superstructure, and then to inquire whether the foundation is safe or not. As I have said before, there is no department of the public service that would suffer by the delay of this appropriation; and if the accounts we have had here of the sufferings of the workmen be true, certainly they cannot find worse pay- masters than the Government has been to them. Mr. Moore, of Pennsylvania. I am opposed to the amendment of the gentleman 492 Documentary History of the Capitol. from New York, [Mr. Floyd.] The subject embraced in his resolution was freely and ably discussed at the last Congress, when they made the appropriation for the Capitol. I consider it unnecessary to discuss it at this time, and therefore call for the question. The question was then taken upon Mr. Floyd’s amendment, and it was rejected. Mr. McMullin. I move to strike out three fourths of the sum. I desire to say a word or two in reference to my own particular position. I voted in the last Con- gress, if my recollection serves me correctly, against the appropriation of $100,000. I supposed then, that the cost of these two wings of the Capitol would amount to some several hundred thousands of dollars. I really did not suppose then that they were to cost some three or four millions of dollars, perhaps five millions. I rise now for the purpose of calling the attention of the committee, the House and country, to the important fact, as it presents itself to my mind. It is this: We have a report made by a standing committee which authorizes and advises the House to pay $250,000 for the purchase of Winder’s building, now in the occupancy of the Govern- ment. I would most respectfully suggest to the consideration of the committee, that instead of completing the wings of the Capitol, they should erect proper buildings for the Departments, so as to supersede the necessity of paying $250,000 to Mr. Winder for his building. This building, which has served all the purposes of Con- gress for the last thirty-odd years, will serve us a few years longer. I think there is something in the suggestion of the sagacious gentleman from Ohio, [Mr. Cartter,] that we know not how long the Capitol will remain here. But, long or short, I say that, according to my conceptions, there is no necessity for expending four or five millions of dollars to build the wings of the Capitol. Let these gentlemen, from the cities of Philadelphia and Baltimore, who desire to quarter their constituents on the Government, make application directly, and I am willing, as one member of this House, limited as my means are, to assist these suf- fering ladies and gentlemen; but I object — I protest, in behalf of my constituents, against the quartering of any gentleman’s constituents on this Government. Mr. Moore, of Pennsylvania. 1 had intended to say a word upon this subject; but, at the solicitation of gentlemen around me, I forbear to say more than that I am opposed to this amendment. The question was then taken on Mr. McMullin’ s amendment, and it was not agreed to. The question recurring on the amendment proposed by the chairman of the com- mittee, [Mr. Stanton,] it was put, and that amendment was agreed to. Mr. Robbins moved that the committee do now rise and report the bill, as amended to the House, with a recommendation that it do pass; which motion was agreed to. The committee accordingly rose, and the Speaker having resumed the chair, the chairman of the committee reported that the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union had had the Union generally under consideration, and particularly the joint resolution “to authorize the continuance of the work on the two wings of the Capitol,” and had directed him to report the same to the House, with an amend- ment, with a recommendation that the amendment be concurred in, and that the joint resolution do pass. Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky, moved the previous question on the adoption of the amendment. The previous question received a second, and the main question was ordered to be now put. Mr. Ficklin called for the reading of the amendment, and it was read. Mr. Scurry demanded the yeas and nays. Mr. Ficklin asked for tellers on ordering the yeas and nays. Tellers were not ordered; and the yeas and nays were not ordered. Mr. Fitch moved to lay the joint resolution on the table ; and on that motion he demanded the yeas and nays. The Extensions. 493 The yeas and nays were ordered ; and the question being put, it was decided in the negative — yeas 43, nays 124, * * * So the House refused to lay the joint resolution upon the table. The question recurring on the adoption of the amendment, it was put and the amendment was agreed to. The question then was ordering the joint resolution to a third reading; and being put, it was so ordered. The joint resolution having been read a third time, Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky, moved the previous question on its passage. The previous question received a second, and the main question was ordered to be now put; and, being put, the joint resolution was passed. Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky, moved to reconsider the vote by which the joint resolu- tion was passed, and to lay the motion to reconsider upon the table; which latter motion was agreed to. [House proceedings of Mar. 13, 1852: Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, Appendix, p. 353.] EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL. REMARKS of Mr. JOHN McNAIR, of Pennsylvania, in the House of Representatives, March 13, 1852. Remarks prepared and intended to have been delivered in the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, (but cut off by the previous question,) on Senate " Joint Resolution authorizing the Architect of the Capitol to continue in employment the mechanics, laborers, and others, employed on the wings thereof.” Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky, offered the following resolution: That there be, and hereby is, appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appro priated, for the period between the passage of this resolution and the end of the fiscal year termi- nating June 30th, 1853, the sum of $500,000 for the continuation of the work on the two wings of the Capitol. Mr. McNair said : Mr. Chairman: This amendment to appropriate $500,000 to be expended in the extension of the Capitol, was very unexpectedly introduced in this House to-day. The resolution for a joint appropriation of $10,000, passed by the Senate, for the purpose of continuing the men at work on the Capitol, and frequently attempted to be brought forward by the chairman of Public Buildings, was the resolution which I, and no doubt nearly all the members of this House, expected would be brought forward this day, to be put upon its passage. But, instead of this, an amendment, or, rather, a substitute is introduced for $500,000, and that to be put into the hands of the President, to be expended and disbursed in the same manner, of course, as the $100,000, heretofore appropriated, have been. In order to ascertain how this money which was appropriated for the extension of the Capitol was drawn from the Treasury, and on whose warrant or by whom drawn, I addressed a note to the Secretary of the Treasury, who very politely furnished me with the following information: Treasury Department, March 10th, 1852. Sir: In reply to the inquiries presented for my attention, by your letter of the 9th instant, I have the honor to remark, that the appropriation of $100,000, for the extension of the Capitol, &c., made by the act of Congress, September 30th, 1850, has been drawn from the Treasury by warrants, as follows: August 2d, 1851, warrant in favor of Thomas U. Walter for $20,000 00 September 25, 1851, warrant in favor of Thomas U. Walter for 20, 000 00 October 16, 1851, warrant in favor of Thomas U. Walter for 20, 000 oO October 30, 1851, warrant in favor of Richard Wallach for 691 73 November 7, 1851, warrant in favor of Thomas U. Walter for 20, 000 00 Decembers, 1851, warrant in favor of Thomas U. Walter for 19,308 27 $100,000 00 494 Documentary History of the Capitol. The several sums set forth as having been paid to Thomas U. Walter, architect for the extension of the Capitol, were drawn upon requisitions upon this Department in favor of Mr. Walter, by the Secretary of the Interior, and the respective amounts were, from time to time, as drawn, charged to Mr. Walter upon the books of the Treasury: The sum of f>691 73 was paid to Richard Wallach upon a certificate from the Register of the Treasury, showing the adjustment of an account in his favor for that amount as Marshal for the District of Columbia. The preceding statement exhibits, it is believed, the information requested in your letter; should you, however, find that anything which you desired has been omitted, and will apprise me of the fact, further attention will, with pleasure, be given to the subject. Very respectfully, sir, I remain your obedient servant, Thomas Corwin, Secretary of the Treasury. Hon. J. McNair, Chairman Select Committee to investigate the foundation of the extension of the Capitol. As this $100,000 has been drawn from the Treasury, so will the $500,000, if appro- priated by Congress. If this will pass, it will be throwing an immense sum of money into the hands of the architect for disbursement. It may be appropriated right, but throws a great temptation in the way to do wrong. I never would trust so much money in the hands of an agent of this description, and especially at a time when the presidential contest is approaching. No person can tell how much of this money might be used for electioneering purposes. This most extravagant substitute is now, if possible, to be forced through this House without consideration, without time for members to judge whether it is just or unjust. Such hasty legislation and extravagant expenditure can never have my sanction or approval. Great and extensive power in any government, and most especially in a republic, should not be given to one man, particularly where a large amount of money is under his control. The funds of this Government should never lie taken out of the hands of its proper representatives, without control or check. It appears, by “an act making appropriations for the civil and diplomatic expenses of the Government for the year ending the 30th of June, 1851, and for other purposes,” and passed September 30th, 1850, the following appropriation was made, viz: For the extension of the Capitol, according to such plan as may be approved by the President of the United States, one hundred thousand dollars, to be expended under his direction, by such archi- tect as he may appoint to execute the same. It seems to me, that if gentlemen who passed this appropriation had had more time to deliberate they would have acted differently. When it was made, there was much excitement and great fear that the appropriation bill would not pass at all. Would any gentleman in this House, upon cool reflection, vote for an appropriation for the extension of this Capitol, the plan of which is to be approved by the Presi- dent, after being submitted to him by his architect? Would it be reasonable that we should give the power out of our own hands to build a house, in which we our- selves are to legislate, into the hands of another? Taking it for granted, with due respect to the President, that he knows little about building, we must conclude that the plan of the building, and the expense attending it, will be almost entirely under the control and regulation of the architect. If we make the appropriations as they are wanted by him, if we advance further with this extension on the foundation as now laid, we know not how many millions we may have to expend. An appropria- tion of $100,000 is now made and expended. With this the outside foundation walls are not yet finished. This immense foundation is laid with the present appropria- tion; no doubt the architect believing that, when this is once laid Congress will be obliged to vote the necessary appropriations to finish the building, let it cost what it may. Now, it is impossible for us to know the cost before we proceed any further, for we are in the power of the architect. He may make any estimate he pleases, and We cannot tell whether it will cost twice as much as the estimate, or what amount it The Extensions. 495 will cost. There is a great temptation for a man to keep himself in employment a long time, when his salary is $5,000 a year. This appropriation once made, and the building continued one year longer, and the architect will have it in his power to continue his salary six, eight, or ten years at pleasure. When we take into consid- eration the memorable Girard College, we have at least some ground for believing that it will not be finished very soon. The plan of this extension of the Capitol was decided on by the President on the 11th of June, 1851; and, on the 30th of June, 1851, the fiscal year for which the appropriation of $100,000 was made, closed. The corner-stone, with appropriate honors, was laid on the 4th of July, 1851. The outside wall of this building, at the base, is eight feet nine inches; above the footings it is six feet nine inches. The stone, amounting to 18,000 perches, the lime, sand, and cement, are all fur- nished by contract. Excavations and stone masonry are done by days’ work. The present Capitol is 352 feet 4 inches by 121 feet 6 inches. The portico is 160 feet in width on the eastern front, and the projection west 83 feet. The wings of the Capitol will be 44 feet from each end, connecting with the present Capitol by means of corridors. Each extension, the one on the north and the other on the south, is 142 feet 8 inches by 238 feet 10 inches, exclusive of steps. The whole length of the building from north to south, when finished, will be 751 feet 4 inches; and from east to west the width will be 324 feet. The ground that will be covered over by the whole building will be 151,112 square feet, or 652 square feet more than three acres and a half. The present building covers over 61,201 square feet; and the new wings 91,911 square feet. The base of these new wings will have to sustain a weight of about 200,000 tons. A foundation, in order to sustain such an immence weight, should be laid with solid mason-work, and the stones of the hardest gneiss. In each wing there will be a hall of 55 feet square, embellished with 20 marble columns. The hall of Representatives will occupy the western half of the south wing, and will have 50 windows. The dimensions of the House will be 130 feet by 97, and it will accommodate 400 members with separate desks, and allow a sufficient space for the lobbies. The hall will have galleries on three sides, and it will accommodate 1,200 persons. The Senate Chamber will be 97 feet 10 inches by 70 feet 6 inches, and 35 feet in height. In this there will be room for 100 members, and in the galleries 1,200 persons. The whole of this immense building is to be faced with white marble. Tbis white marble is not of so durable a nature as some other kinds of stone. It in time fades, and, after a few years, from the rains pouring upon it, yellow streaks will lie seen running over the face in many places. The cost of the entire design of this building, in accordance with the drawings and models, will be $2,675,000. This estimate is made independent of any extras, and upon the assumption that the interior of the new buildings will not be more expen- sively finished than the present Capitol. But as the plan of the extension is put entirely under the approval of the President in the appropriation, it will depend on him whether these expensive embellishments shall be made, or not. But this esti- mate is for the extension of the Capitol alone, and it is reasonable to suppose that there will be a very large increase on the first estimate. And I have no doubt, that by the time this extension is entirely finished, and all expenses taken into consideration, the whole cost will not be less than $5,000,000. This large amount of money, if no change is made by Congress as to the manner of drawing it out of the Treasury, will be drawn, as has been shown in the appropriation already made, by 496 Documentary History of the Capitol . the warrants of the architect. The amount first appropriated was among other appropriations for the civil and diplomatic expenses of Government for the year ending the 30th of June, 1851. The corner-stone of this extension of the Capitol was laid after the year had run out for which the appropriation was made; namely, on the 4th of July, 1851, four days after the fiscal year for which the appropriation was made; and nearly all of the money thus appropriated was expended after that time. And since, all the money thus appropriated has been expended, and a large amount of the stone is not paid for; yet the stone is still continued to be delivered on the ground as though the Government certainly would be compelled to pay for them. There are seventeen hundred barrels of lime from the State of New York not used, and, I believe, not paid for. A large contract for marble, of some hundreds of thousands of dollars, is made, and applications are making for the brick- work; a contract for which is now made, or soon will be; and all these things progressing without any authority from Congress, or any appropriations made to pay the amount of these contracts. Who is so certain that this Government is ready to expend $5,000,000 in the extension of theCapitol, when there is really but one room for a library, about thirty feet long by twenty wide, needed? Would any member of this House exercise such economy in his own affairs. Should this large amount of money be expended in the extension of the Capitol, we know not how soon or at what time the seat of Government may be moved to the West, or some other situation that will be nearer to the center of the States. I suppose the answer to this will be, the greater the amount expended in building the Capitol, the more likely it will be to remain here. In reply to this, I would say, that as soon as the people of the West, Southwest, and Northwest, would discover that large expenditures were made for retaining the seat of Government here, the sooner they would vote for removing it. Many members who have a great distance to come to the seat of Government would vote for moving it West tomorrow, and there is now a petition in the hands of one of the members for that purpose. Only one thing now keeps the seat of Government at Washington, and that is, that members at a distance get a larger amount of mileage than those who live nearer. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 15, 1852: Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, p. 746.] EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL. A message from the House of Representatives was received by Mr. Hayes, its Chief Clerk, announcing that it had passed the joint resolution from the Senate to authorize the continuance of the work upon the two wings of the Capitol, with an amendment, and requesting the concurrence of the Senate therein. The President subsequently said: There is on the table a joint resolution which has been returned from the House of Representatives, with an amendment, to authorize the continuance of the work on the two wings of the Capitol. What dis- position will the Senate make of it? Mr. Shields. The proper committee to which that resolution ought to be referred are not now here, nor are they ready to- act upon it; and as I suppose there will be no serious objection to it, I move that it be taken up and put upon its passage, with- out being referred to any committee. The President. This is a joint resolution which has been returned from the House of Representatives. It will be in the power of the Senate to act upon it immediately, or to refer it, as they may think proper. Mr. Shields. It seems to me that it may as well be disposed of now. The President. The amendment made by the House is, to strike out all after the resolving clause, and insert the following: The Extensions. 497 “That there be, and is hereby, appropriated out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, for the period from which the passage of this resolution to the end of the fiscal year terminating June 30th, 1853, the sum of 8500,000, for the continuance of the work on the two wings of the Capitol.” Mr. Gwin. There is not a majority of the Committee on Finance in the Senate; and as it is a matter that action should be had upon as early as possible, I will move its reference to the Committee for the District of Columbia. Mr. Shields. I was going to say that the Committee for the District of Columbia is in precisely the same condition. There is not a quorum of the committee in the city, and that is the reason why I think it would be better to pass the measure at once. Mr. Stockton. I move that the Senate agree to the amendment. This is a bill of great importance, and should be passed forthwith. Mr. Mason. I was only going to suggest that the resolution appropriates half a million of money. It is a resolution originating, I believe, with the Committee on Finance. Mr. Brodhead. The Committee on Public Buildings. Mr. Mason. This resolution appropriates a very large sum of money, and though I dislike to throw any obstacles in the w r av of its passage unnecessarily, it seems to me that it should go to its appropriate committee. I understand the Senator, who desires its passage now, to intimate that there is not a majority of the Committee on Finance present at this time. I think there may be a majority of the Committee on Public Buildings, which is an appropriate committee. Mr. Shields. There is not a majority of the Committee on Public Buildings present, nor of the Committee for the District of Columbia; and, consequently, if the matter is referred to a committee, it will remain a long time in abeyance. It is true it appropriates $500,000, but that is only half the amount which the President has called for in the civil bill. It extends to the end of the fiscal year, 1853. Mr. Mason. What is the amount in the original resolution? The President. The original resolution is, that the Secretary of the Interior may continue in employment, for the construction of the wings of the Capitol, so many mechanics and laborers as can be properly engaged in the work, and appropriates $10,000 to carry that into effect. As the resolution has now comeback, it is proposed to strike out the sum of $10,000 and insert $500,000. Mr. Shields. The original resolution was merely temporary. My opinion is, that if we continue the work at all, if it be not abandoned entirely, now is the best time for these men to go on with the work. There cannot be a better season than the present; and surely, if it is not entirely to be given up, we ought to pass this resolu- tion. The work has been neglected long enough. That is my view of the matter, and I have no other object in passing it now. As it is to be acted upon, I presume, sooner or later, and as this is only half the amount which the Executive calls for, I take it for granted we may as well adopt the resolution now. I understand the ques- tion has been long and earnestly debated in the House of Representatives, and after having been thus maturely deliberated upon, it has been passed in the shape in which it now comes before the Senate. Mr. Borland. I am aware, Mr. President, that in rising to say anything on the side of this question which I feel bound to occupy, \ place myself in a very ungra- cious attitude before the Senate — certainly before the galleries, which, to a great extent, are made parties, deeply-interested parties, to this bill and its discussion. And, sir, if I were to consult my feelings and my comfort A Senator. And the galleries. Mr. Borland. Yes, sir, and the galleries, I would now be silent. Sir, for two weeks past I have been beset daily on my way to and from the Capitol, H. liep. 646 ■32 498 Documentary History of the Capitol. not by persons advocating the great interests of the country, or the passage of this bill on account of any great public necessity, but by those who — from considerations of personal interest, and in whose feelings and wants I most deeply sympathize — - urge its passage as furnishing them employment. That is, in effect, calling upon Congress to convert this Government, in the administration of the public funds, into a great national almshouse, and by direct appropriations from the Treasury, to take care of the poor — to feed the hungry, to clothe the naked. Now, Mr. President, on the score of charity — while I have no professions to make — it is due to myself, on this occasion, to say that I believe my heart is as warm, and my sympathies as deep and as strong for the poor and the suffering, as those of any advocate of this bill; and I trust I am prepared to go as far as any other man, in extending all the aid in my power to those who need assistance. Even, sir, in my legislative capacity, I think I have manifested a disposition, upon this floor, to go as far as the most liberal sense of public duty will permit for all objects of real merit. Sir, as you know, I have been charged here with a liberality amounting to extravagance. * * * But, Mr. President, I come now to ask, what consideration of public policy, what important or pressing public interest, what public necessity requires this appropria- tion of half a million of dollars f And especially do I desire to understand the reasons which induce its advocates to ask its passage upon such short notice; to press it upon us in such hot haste; to seek to avoid even the usual, the regular, and, in my opinion, the very necessary and proper reference of it to the appropriate committee? Sir, the consideration of this subject is sprung upon us this morning unexpectedly, and, as I think, in a most extraordinary manner. For myself, although I have been thinking of it since I heard of its passage in the House on Saturday last, it has been only in a general way, and I am not prepared, on the spur of the moment, with the facts which belong to and the considerations which grow out of it, in a way to do justice to the subject or my own view's. But compelled, as I am, to speak — if I speak at all, with my thoughts thus crude and unarranged, 1 shall still speak plainly what I do think, and as briefly as I can. Mr. President, I will not now go into the question as to whether this extension of the public buildings be necessary and proper or not. But I think it could be clearly shown by any one who would take the trouble to investigate it, that it is neither proper nor necessary. It has been said, I know, that the Chambers of the two Houses of Congress are not large enough. Now, I appeal to every one who hears me if there is any foundation, in fact, for such a position? Whoever will look around him will find, I think, the Chamber is not only large enough now, but likely to be so for years to come. And even if they are not, or shall not be, there is room enough within the outside w T alls of this Capitol which, with a comparatively small appro- priation of money, could be so disposed of as to enlarge the rooms and improve their construction to an extent which w'ould be ample, commodious, and comfortable for both Houses, with all their increase and all our officers, for the next fifty years. That this is so, and susceptible of demonstration, I cannot question, unless I reject the evidence of my senses. But, sir, suppose, for the argument, that this extension of the Capitol is now required, how is it to be done; how has it been done; how has the plan adopted been so far executed; how has the money heretofore appropriated been used? I do not under- take to say that this money has been improperly expended. But can any one upon this floor tell me how it has been used? Do we know that it has been faithfully, properly, and economically expended for the purpose to which it was appropriated? Sir, I am not an architect; I am not a stone-mason, nor a builder; but I think I have seen enough of the manner in which building is usually carried on to authorize me in saying, from what I have also seen of this, that no private man in this country, not a member of this body, who, with the means of building for him- The Extensions. 499 self, would ever permit work to be done for him, and at his cost, as this has been done. I say not this now of the quality of the work, but of the mode in which it has been done. I have, in passing through the grounds, sir, been unable to avoid seeing the manner in which this work has been carried on; and I do not hesitate to express the opinion that it must have been at an expense from five to ten times as great as any prudent private individual would have incurred in the same quantity and kind of work on his own account. And now, a word as to the quality of the work. As I said, I am not an architect, nor a stone mason, and, therefore, have not made a thorough examination of this point; so I do not undertake to say positively that this work has not been done faith- fully, and in a workmanlike manner. But there is some reason for believing that it has not been. This we do know — a committee of the House of Represensatives has been appointed to examine and report whether it be so or not. T have been told, on several occasions, that that committee was satisfied that the work was well done; had ceased their examinations, and abandoned their opposition to the progress of the work. I am authorized to say that this is not the case. It so happens that I am on terms of personal intimacy with the chairman of that committee, and I learn from him that so far from being satisfied with the work, the very reverse is true; and he is convinced that the apprehensions which led to the investigation are founded in fact; that from actual examination he does not hesitate to pronounce the work unfaithfully and badly done; that the foundations are not built of materials, or put together in such manner as to be safe and secure for the edifice to be raised upon them. Mr. Mangum. Who is the chairman of that committee? Mr. Borland. Mr. McNair, of Pennsylvania. In the candor and fairness of that gentleman I have entire confidence; and for his judgment I have great respect. He may be wrong; but I understand that a majority of the committee agree with him fully. I learn from him that they were utterly amazed when they came to examine the work, and found of what miserable stuff it consisted. And permit me to say that I have some knowledge upon this point from my own personal observation. When my attention was called to it, as I was passing a portion of the wall, I, with the toe of my boot, pushed out from between the stones portions of the mortar, after the work had been standing for months. I confess that this astonished me. But, sir, the next morning I saw what was not less significant. I found some of the workmen, trowel in hand, scraping out that portion of the mortar I had tested with my boot toe, and replacing it with new mortar. How it may be in the interior of the wall I do not pre- tend to know. That is what I found on the surface. But I learn from the commit- tee that they found several portions of the wall filled in with loose sand, and mortar with little or no tenacity; and that there are no girders or binders as they are called; so that the work, thus imperfectly done, is liable to be crushed down by the immense weight which, if it progresses, must be placed upon it. Now these are statements of gentlemen in whose integrity I have perfect confidence, and for whose judgment I have very great respect. Again, sir, I have learned that the stone of which these foundations have been built, has not been subjected to that preparatory test which is customary among builders to determine its capability to sustain the almost countless tons of weight to be piled upon it. And I have never heard the statement contradicted, although it has been made long ago. Moreover, it is also said that this stone has been procured from a condemned and rejected quarry — that its use was undertaken for the founda- tion of the Washington Monument, but being found not to stand the test of strength, it was rejected. These are important points. I may be misinformed upon them. If so, I desire correct information, and will be obliged to any gentleman who will give it to me. Such, then, I am left to believe, is the result now before us; such the material, and 500 Documentary History of the Capitol. such the manner in which it has been worked up into what is called the foundations of the extension of the Capitol, for which we have already paid $100,000. Is the work worth the money? I do not think it is. From the best information I have been able to obtain, and to which I have alluded, it is not only not worth what we have already paid for it, but, if received and adopted as the foundation upon which the superstructure is to be raised, it will be a dead loss in itself, and will occasion the loss of the millions besides which we shall be called upon to expend in raising that superstructure; for, by the time, or before, the topmost stone shall have been set in its place, the whole structure, unsubstantial and insecure in its foundations — a house built upon the sand, crushed down with its own weight, like those frail edifices built for speculation in some of the northern towns, of which we frequently read accounts — will tumble to the ground, forming at once a monument of ruins to the genius of corruption, and a mausoleum to its dupes. Sir, will or can any one tell me of the manner in which the $100,000 we have hereto- fore appropriated has been dispensed by and to its recipients? I have been told — if incorrectly, I hope some one will set me right — that the whole of this amount has been paid out of the Treasury, in sums varying from $5,000 to $20,000, upon the simple order, without the usual vouchers, of the architect — a new officer of our Gov- ernment, not known, that I am aware, to the Constitution or the laws — a sort of presidential creation — and sustaining to Congress no relations of personal or official responsibility whatever. And these sums — embracing, in the aggregate, the whole amount of the appropriation, drawn upon this simple order of the architect, without vouchers, except such as he may choose to furnish after the expenditure — are dis- pensed at his will and discretion! And now, sir, it is proposed by this resolution, hastily, without notice, without investigation, without even permitting a committee to examine it, to put_/h’e times as much as at first — half a million of dollars — in the same hands, fora similar purpose; indeed, a continuation of the very same work, and to be dispensed in the very same way. Mr. Badger. Will my friend from Arkansas allow me? Mr. Borland. Certainly. Mr. Badger. My friend from Arkansas is, no doubt, correct in saying that the money is called for upon the draft or order of the architect, and the reason is, that the act of Congress directed the money to be employed in erecting these wings to be disbursed by the superintendent of the work. The money is drawn out of the Treasury in the same way that all other money is drawn out, and is accounted for in precisely the same way. Mr. Borland. Well, sir, I am very glad to hear that accuracy and propriety have been observed in the expenditure of this money. If my friend from North Carolina states this as a fact, within his own knowledge, I will take it as settling that part of the question. Mr. Badger. I do not know it; but I have understood it to be so. Mr. Borland. And I have understood it to be quite the contrary. I rejaeat, if my friend from North Carolina would state this as a fact within his own knowledge, I would rely upon it. But being stated as a mere matter of opinion, based upon what he has heard, he must excuse me if I cannot take his opinion instead of my own, when mine is based upon what I consider reliable information. Mr. Badger. I think the difficulty of my friend is, that he does not understand the ordinary mode in which money is drawn in pursuance of an order of this kind. Congress appropriates money to be applied for a particular purpose, under the direc- tion of the person appointed with that view. He is the agent to whom Congress has intrusted this business. He draws the money at once. He does not take vouchers before expending the money; he draws from time to time, and settles with his vouchers. That is the usual course. All I know about it is, that the act of Con- The Extensions. 501 gress authorizes the expenditure of this money, which was appropriated last Con- gress, by the architect whom the President shall select for carrying on the work. We made him our officer or agent to disburse this appropriation. Mr. Borland. I hope it is all true. I am not well informed on this matter, as my friend very rightly supposes. I am, to a considerable extent, ignorant of the details of the expenditure of the public money; and I am thankful, always, when a friend will inform me. But, sir, it is for that very reason, if there was no other, that I am particular on this occasion, and desire that this matter shall be put in such a form, and made so clear and intelligible, that even one so dull as myself may under- stand it, and that the people may know how their money is expended. That I do not and cannot understand these things, is what I complain of : — it is an important part of my objection to this resolution. If our legislation be, as it seems to have been in this case, obscure in its terms, loose in its provisions, and fails to impose sufficient safeguards and restrictions around our moneyed expenditures to make them safe, and faithful, and economical, I think it is high time that we should change its character, and bring those expenditures alike within safe bounds, and within our own knowledge; for until we do so, to say the least of it, we not only are not, but cannot be as careful in the discharge of these duties we are sent here to perform, as we should be. Now, sir, with all these things staring me in the face, whatever may be my feelings of sympathy for the laboring men who have been brought here to work upon the Capitol, and who now throng the galleries for effect — whatever may be my desire to see them provided with work, and supplied with the means of a comfortable sub- sistence, I cannot give my vote for this large, and, as I regard it, unnecessary and improper appropriation. * # * Sir, there is no concealing or avoiding the fact that the dangerous tendency of our system of government, is that towards centralism and consolidation. 1 well know, sir, that in asserting this, I but suggest an argument which is ever potential with certain Senators upon this floor, and with a certain school of politicians through- out the country, to carry them in the very opposite direction from that in which I would be glad to see them go, and, as I think, the good of this country requires them to go. I know full well that those Senators and that school of politicians to which I allude, and of which they are the honored leaders, need no other and no stronger argument to induce them to support any measure than the proof that it ministers to that tendency I have mentioned — to concentrate and consolidate power here in this Federal head, at the expense of the sovereignty, the independence, the rights, and legitimate power of the several States. * * * In my opinion, there is no danger of a dissolution of this Union, or destruction of the Government, by a flying off of any of its parts. The tendency is centripetal, and therein lies the danger. The sources of this danger consist in the tendency of power, wherever it may be found, whether in the hands of individuals or governments, to cumulate itself and strengthen its own functions. Beginning with the Government, this tendency has been manifested, and, with occasional checks, has slowly, but in my opinion, surely been increasing down to the present hour. An instance of it is seen whenever and wherever a power is exercised which the Constitution lias not granted. If, I repeat, this Union of States shall ever be destroyed, this will be the cause. Overriding the Constitution, disregarding rights and crushing interests, it will ultimately grasp and absorb all the functions of all the governments, State and Federal. Towering up as a great central power, it will overshadow the States, and swallow up their sovereignty; and then nothing of Union will be left but its name, while one great consolidated despotism will fill its place. Who will love, and veil- 502 Documentary History of the Capitol. erate, and adhere to it then? In this way, if ever, this Union may he, not dissolved, but consolidated and destroyed. It may “ grow to a pleurisy, and die of its own too much.” * * * Mr. Shields. I would ask the honorable Senator to give way for a moment. Mr. Borland. I will have done in a moment. Mr. President, when we find one of these large appropriations, placing money unconditionally at the disposal of a politi- cal opponent of a majority of the two Houses of Congress, we find also a disposition to vote upon them without investigation. I do not say, that Senators who are advo- cating this course, have not investigated this particular matter; but they ought to remember that if they have done so, there may be others who have not. One of these- Mr. Clarke. If the honorable Senator will allow me one moment. I desire to move to postpone the consideration of this subject until to-morrow. It is one of very great importance. The honorable Senator from Michigan, [Mr. Cass,] it is well known, was entitled to the floor to-day upon another subject. The time is passing away, and it will be almost impossible for him to occupy it. The bill, upon which he proposes to speak, is a great and important one, and of very essential consequence to many gentlemen in the Senate. I, therefore, with the Senator’s leave, will move to post- pone the further consideration of this subject. I desire to be heard upon it as does the honorable Senator from North Carolina. If the debate goes on, the day will be consumed by it; and I therefore appeal to the Senate that it is due, in courtesy to the Senator from Michigan, that the postponement should take place, in order to give him an opportunity to speak to-day. We all must know that this subject has been unexpectedly sprung upon us at this time; I move, therefore, that its further con- sideration be postponed until to-morrow. Mr. Borland. I will agree to what the Senator says; but permit me to say why. It is known to the Senate that I did not willingly engage in this discussion. I did not wish the resolution to be taken up for consideration to-day; but it was taken up and its immediate passage called for. I was opposed to it; and I felt that if I did not make my opposition then, there would be no opportunity for me to do so. I was unwilling that the vote should be taken, before I expressed my views upon the sub- ject. No one is more anxious to hear the Senator from Michigan than I am; no one will listen to him with more pleasure; no one feels a greater desire for the passage of the bill he proposes to advocate. I will have accomplished the object which I have in view by agreeing with the Senator from Rhode Island in having this post- poned. It is what I desired at first; I, therefore, am accommodated now. Mr. Mangum. I am not disposed to interpose any obstacle to hearing the Senator from Michigan. Will the Chair be so obliging as to inform me ivhat was the motion pending before the last one was made? The President. There was no motion. The question under consideration was as to concurring with the amendment of the House of Representatives to the joint resolu- tion. The motion is now made to postpone the further consideration of the subject until to-morrow. Mr. Mangum. The question upon which the Senator from Michigan desires to speak is the Iowa land bill? The President. Yes, sir; and it is the special order. Mr. Mangum. I had very much hoped that that bill would have been broughtto a conclusion to-morrow. I am rather unwilling to occupy the time of the Senate on the subject now before us, but so many remarks have been made, by the Senator from Arkansas, not immediately relevant — immediately, I say — to the question, that I feel inclined to offer a very few remarks myself. Mr. Cass. I will observe that, as to my going on to-day, it is a matter of perfect indifference to me. What little I have to say, I can say in a very short time. I am prepared to do as the Senate pleases. The Extensions. 503 Mr. Mangum. I hope we will have a vote to-morrow on the Iowa bill. I will pit until twelve o’clock at night to get a vote, and it is the only way you can get it. The President. Does the Senator from North Carolina understand that the motion is to postpone the joint resolution now before the Senate, until to-morrow? Mr. Mangum. Yes, sir; I understand that is the question. Mr. Atchison. I understood the Senator from Arkansas to give way for the purpose of permitting the motion to be made to postpone. If the debate goes on, be is entitled to the floor still. Mr. Mangum. The Senator from Arkansas yielded the floor. Mr. Borland. I yielded it only to have that motion made. Mr. Shields. I hope the joint resolution will be postponed until to-morrow. When I made the motion to take it up, I had no idea that it would occupy fifteen minutes. I certainly should not have made that motion, if I had thought it would occupy the time it is likely to occupy. I wish it now by all means to give way to the Senator from Michigan, and I ask my friend from North Carolina to give way for that purpose. Mr. Mangum. I will interpose no obstacle to hearing the Senator from Michigan. Mr. Borland. It is true, as was stated, that I gave way to a motion to postpone, and not for any other purpose. I did it as an act of courtesy. The question is not postponed; and I understand that if one who is speaking yields the floor for a par- ticular motion, and that motion is not agreed to, he goes on with the subject-matter of his remarks, and continues the debate. The President. Strictly speaking, that is not the case. Mr. Mangum. I will repeat what I have already stated, that I will interpose no obstacle to hearing the Senator from Michigan, and I will resume my seat after making a single remark or two, and touching a single point having no immediate relevancy to the bill under consideration. I have been greatly gratified to see a young Goliath step forth to endeavor to correct the practice of this Government. He is a member of the party which has entire control over the legislation of this body, and of the other House. I hope, sir, that the lecture which he has given his associates will produce a good effect. I have believed, and I am sure you have believed, for a long time that the Government was far departing from its ancient principles and practices. But the Senator’s remarks were unfortunately misapplied to the Whig head at the other end of the avenue. Has the allegation or imputation been made that a cent has yet been expended which was not authorized and directed by an appropriation? I have heard no such allegation — none such can be made. I hope that the Senator and his associates on his side of the Chamber will endeavor to see the Government restricted to economy, and retracted in its expenses to his favorite Jeffersonian standard. I desire to see it. Why, sir, within my time — and I am yet a young man, as well as you, Mr. President, [laughter] — one Administration was put out of power for the immense and monstrous expenditure of $13,000,000 a year. Under its successors the expenditures amounted to $39,000,000 or $40,000,000, and they have now run up to $50,000,000. Whose fault is it? If we had a General Jackson here, who could control his troops, he would, in some degree, be responsible; but the case is different when we have a President whose political friends are in a minority in both branches of the Legislature. I hope my friend from Arkansas will bring to his assistance a sufficient number of the Democratic party to retract the Gov- ernment to its ancient and economical practices. I have seen, or suspect I have seen, in the course of my service here, a little difference between profession and practice. Economy is a beautiful thing to be professed; it is a toy that tickles the ear of the farmer and the thrifty citizen in the country, who has a few pennies in his pocket, which he desires to keep from the grasp of rapacious office and job-seekers; they are not to be taken and paid for the bread of those who will not earn it. But let us see a little of the practice. I hope the honorable Senator will bring up his troops. He is a young commander, but has had experience 504 Documentary History of' the Capitol. Mr. Atchison. I call the honorable Senator from North Carolina to order, in the first place, because he is making a speech, when the Senator from Arkansas has the floor, and in the second place, because he has no right to advise the Democracy. [Laughter.] The President. The Senator from North Carolina [Mr. Mangum] is entitled to the floor. Mr. Mangum. I will not attempt to do so absurd and useless a thing as to advise the great and wise and economical Democracy. I think that they will not learn wisdom from advice, proceeding from such a quarter; yet it might not be wholly thrown away if they were to hear it and act upon it. I admit that, under the Dem- ocratic rule, the Government has run up to a degree of expenditure unexampled in the history of the country. I am glad to see one stern, gallant, and intrepid man— though comparatively a young member — step forward and lecture his seniors. I hope they will profit by it. I hope the Treasury of the United States will profit by it. I hope the people of the country will profit by it. Sir, I have witnessed a great deal of this profession. I have recently heard of an eminent gentleman, who has my highest respect, a gentleman from Pennsylvania, saying that the Government ought to be brought back to the old Jeffersonian days. But when I looked at him mounted in his saddle, with his spurs on, ready to run the next presidential race, I thought that extravagance and spoils would distance him. I admit that the whole system is tending to corruption, and I fear it is ultimately to uproot the institutions of the country from its ancient principles. Extravagance can beat Economy any day in a public race. The spoils, the $50,000,000 that are to go into the pockets of the office-seekers — seekers of jobs and all the et cetera — afford the means by which the public money can be taken from the public purse and be put into individual purses. Sir, you and /, though yet young men, have lived long enough to have witnessed an every day state of things that pass here as a matter of course; things that are sustained by our Democratic friends everywhere; things that are now passed as a matter of course, which, thirty years ago, would not have received a second thought in either branch of the Legislature. I commend the example and the advice of my friend from Arkansas to his Demo- cratic brethren. I hope they will profit by his counsels. I hope the country will be benefited by them. As far as I can, in a very humble way, I hope to put my shoulders to the wdieel and cordially cooperate with him. I said 1 only wanted to express my gratification at the remarks of the honorable Senator, and to congratulate the Democracy that so gallant, so stern, so intrepid a man has been found who will come forward and lecture the evil-doers who have been squandering the public means. I think, though, the lecture was wrongly applied, as regards the other end of the avenue. Any money that is paid out, is paid out under the warrant of law. I sup- pose my friend would not have the Executive do otherwise than that. Whatever may be said of the present Executive, any assumption of doubtful power, any usur- pation of power, anything that exceeds the Constitution and statutes, cannot be imputed to him, successfully at least. A more abiding and subservient Administra- tion to the laws and Constitution, this country has not produced since the days of Washington. * * * Mr. Borland. I wish to say one word, lest the remarks of the Senator from North Carolina, kindly intended, I have no doubt Mr. Mangum. They were. I have great respect for the Senator. Mr. Borland. — should place me in a false position before the country and before my party. He has represented me here as a Goliath. I had rather, on this occasion, and on any other occasion, occupy, as far as my humble ability would permit me, the position of David, who was a very small individual, and very feeble in himself, but in whose hands, when inspired with truth, and in a just cause, with his simple instru- The Extensions. 505 ment of a sling, the pebble of truth was successful in striking the Goliath of the enemy. I did not rise for the purpose of lecturing the party to which I belong. My position in the country is too humble, and I am too young a Senator, to undertake to stand up here and assume the position of a leader or lecturer of my party. I am an humble soldier in the ranks. I simply rose to speak of the motives and considerations which govern me, and to express, not so much for Senators as for my constituents — for I believe we all speak somewhat for Buncombe — the ground upon which I stood, and to show them that not only had I made these pledges, and fought the battle with them at home upon these principles, but that I have felt, as their representative, it my duty to light the battle upon this more elevated and more extended field. The motion to postpone was agreed to. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 16, 1852: Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, p. 761.] EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL. The Senate resumed the consideration of the joint resolution to authorize the continuance of the work upon the two wings of the Capitol, with the amendment of the House of Representatives thereto, and it was Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Public Buildings. Mr. Borland submitted the following resolution for consideration; which was agreed to: Resolved , That the Committee on Public Buildings of the Senate, be instructed to make a thorough examination of the work thus far executed on the extension of the Capitol: 1st. As to the uniformity of the strata upon which the walls rest. 2d. As to the quality and the dimensions of the stone, and quality of the mortar used. 3d. As to the character of the work, the mode of its construction, and its power of resistance. 4th. As to every other matter and thing connected therewith as may, in their opinion, affect the stability and permanency of the whole structure. And the committee are hereby empowered to bring to their aid, in the foregoing examination, such of the United States Topographical Engineers, and other competent persons as they may think proper. [Senate proceedings of Apr. 2, 1852: Congressional Globe, 32—1, p. 952.] EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL. Mr. Hunter, from the Committee on Public Buildings, to which was referred the resolution of the Senate of the 16th March last, calling for information as to the quality, dimensions of the stone, quality of mortar used, character of the work, mode of construction, &c., for the extension of the Capitol, with any matters connected therewith as may affect the stability and permanency of the whole structure, sub- mitted a report; which was ordered to be printed. Mr. Hunter. The Committee on Public Buildings, to which was referred the joint resolution to authorize the continuance of the work upon the two wings of the Capitol, with the amendment of the House of Representatives thereto, have directed me to report back the same with a recommendation that the Senate concur therein. If it be the general pleasure of the Senate to take up this matter to-day, I should be very glad. As the Committee on Finance expects to report the deficiency bill on Monday, it is necessary to act soon upon this question, if we mean to act at all. Although this is Friday, and private-bill day, and I very much regret to interfere with the general order of business, it seems to me to be a case which might, perhaps, justify the suspension of the order for the purpose of taking up the amendment of the House of Representatives to this joint resolution. If there be no objection, I should like to have it acted on now. Mr. Cooper. I hope the gentleman will withdraw the motion, in order to allow me to submit a resolution. Mr. Hunter. Certainly. 506 Documentary History of the Capitol. [Senate. Rep. Com. No. 163. 32d Congress, 1st session. In the Senate of the United States. April 2, 1852. — Ordered to he printed.] Mr. Hunter made the following report: The Committee on Public Buildings respectfully submit this report, as a response to the inquiries which they were directed to make, by the following resolutions referred to them by order of the Senate: ‘ ‘ Resolved , That the Committee on Public Buildings of the Senate be instructed to make a thorough examination of the work thus far executed on the extension of the Capitol. “1. As to the uniformity of the strata upon which the walls rest. “2. As to the quality and dimensions of the stone, and quality of the mortar used. “3. As to the chai'acter of the work, the mode of its construction, and its power of resistance. “4. As to every other matter and thing connected therewith as may, in their opin- ion, affect the stability and permanency of the whole structure. “ And the committee are hereby empowered to bring to their aid, in the foregoing examination, such of the United States topographical engineers, and other compe- tent persons, as they may think proper.” To obtain the best information upon this subject which was within their reach, this committee addressed letters to General Totten of the engineer corps, and to Colonel Abert of the topographical engineers, requesting them each to detail two competent officers, for the purpose of making such an examination as was contem- plated by the Senate. General Totten detailed Captain Frederick A. Smith and Brevet Lieutenant Colonel Mason, both of the engineers, and Colonel Abert detailed Lieutenant Colonel James Kearney and Captain Thomas J. Lee, of the topographical engineers. A copy of the resolution of the Senate was placed in the hands of the engineers of each corps, with a request that they would examine the work carefully, and report the result to the Committee on Public Buildings. The investigation, as your committee believe, was made with great care by these officers; and the results were reported separately by the engineers of the two corps, both of which reports are herewith submitted; the one from the engineers marked A; and the other, from the topographical engineers, marked B. These reports leave no doubt on the mind of the committee as to the sufficiency of the foundations, and the general good char- acter of the work. The addition of hydraulic cement to the mortar is a matter which had already attracted the attention of the architect, who has taken measures to provide for it. After a consideration of the whole subject, your committee see no cause for a further suspension of the work, but many reasons for its immediate prosecution. The favorable season for such work has already commenced; and a number of workmen who were engaged on the building as long as the appropriation lasted, are still here, without employment. If the work is to go on, it should be re-commenced at once, not only to secure as much as possible of the working season, but to save the expense and prevent the suffering which would arise from the dis- persion of the workmen now here, and the collection of others, or perhaps of these themselves, from distant cities. A. Washington, March 25, 1852. Sir: On the subject of the resolution of the Senate of the 16th instant, relating to the foundations of the extension of the Capitol, referred by you to us on the 22d, with a request for an opinion, we have the honor to state that, after an examination sufficiently minute to satisfy our minds, we have come to the following conclusions on the different points presented. The Extensions . 507 “1. As to the uniformity of the strata upon which the walls rest.” Excavations were made under our direction at the four corners of the new work; that is, at the northeast and northwest corners of the north wing, and the southeast and southwest corners of the south wing. These excavations extended from six to ten feet below the bottom of the foundations, except at the latter point, where it went only to the actual level of the bottom of the foundation. The ground on which the foundations were laid was thus examined, as well as the underlying stratum, at three points, and we are enabled to express a confident opinion that the stratum of gravel, several feet thick, (overlying a stratum of hard sand) on which the founda- tions rest throughout, is of a uniform incompressibility, and that there is no reason to apprehend a settlement of the walls from its giving way. “2. As to the quality and the dimensions of the stone, and quality of the mortar used.” The quality of the stone (gneiss — commonly called blue-rock) is excellent — prob- ably no better could be obtained for foundations. As a general rule, the stones are of decidedly large dimensions. In some few places, the small stones generally used, in construction, to fill up, occur in larger quantities than we would consider desirable, but nowhere to excite our apprehension as to the stability of the structure. The mortar used for the bedding or lower part of the foundation, resting directly on the ground, is throughout of hydraulic cement and sand — as it should be. In some other parts a mixture of cement and lime with the sand was used, in good proportions. In other portions, say about one-half of the whole above the bedding, no hydraulic cement was used in the mortar. This we consider an error, as pure lime-mortar of the common fat limes, without cement, will never set in the interior of thick walls. The best illustration of the truth of this will be found on inspection of the speci- mens of mortar submitted herewith to the committee. Specimen A was taken from the foundations of the northwest corner of the main building of the present Capitol; taken from about a foot inside the face of the wall. It was laid nearly fifty years ago, and is now soft and without cohesive power. Specimen B was taken from the foundations of the southern wall of the main building of the Capitol. It was laid some seven or eight years ago, in making repairs. This mortar is similar in character to the first. Specimen C was found on certain stones, cut out, some years ago, of the cellar walls under the rotunda, where the furnaces were put in. This specimen is much drier than the others, owing to its exposure to the dry and hot air of the furnace-rooms; but it will be perceived that it is nearly as destitute of cohesive power as the other. It is by no means to be understood, however, that the stability of a wall is to be considered as dependent upon the use of cement. The introduction of cement into general use, has been of quite recent date in this country; and in many large and substantial structures not a particle has been employed. “3. As to the character of the work, the mode of its construction, and its power of resistance.” The character of the work and the mode of construction we consider excellent, with the exceptions alluded to; and in no part do we perceive deficiencies to war- rant, in us, an apprehension as to the power of these foundations to resist the pressure of the superstructure. It may be proper, under this head, to notice a feature of the construction, proposed by the accomplished architect in charge. Immediately upon the foundation walls, as now existing, he proposes to lay two courses of masonry — making a depth of four feet — composed of the largest sized blocks, carefully laid in cement-mortar, without lime; this to equalize the pressure of the superstructure over the whole thickness of the w r all; an excellent arrangement, which seems to us to promise full security against any anticipated danger. 508 Documentary History of the Capitol. 4th interrogatory. Under this general head we have perceived nothing calling for further remark. We respectfully, therefore, submit it as our opinion, that the existing foundations are sufficient for their purpose. Respectfully submitted. Feed. A. Smith, Captain Engineers. J. L. Mason, Captain Engineers, Brevet Lieutenant Colonel. Hon. R. M. T. Huntek, Chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings, U. S. Senate. B. Bureau of Topographical Engineers, Washington, March 30, 1852. Sir: At the request of the Committee on Public Buildings, of the Senate, we have made a careful examination of the foundations for the extension of the Capitol, and we have the honor to report: That we find the masonry rests uniformly upon the original gravel and clay of the hill; the foundations being sunk to various depths below the present surface, in order to attain this. The foundation descends by steps slightly inclining towards the hill, and the breadth of the walls increases as they descend below the surface. The depth of this gravel and clay we did not deem it necessary to ascertain with precision, as it is known to be considerable. The stone employed in the foundations is granitic, and of an excellent and durable quality. The lower courses, for some four feet of height, are laid in a cement of hydraulic lime and sand, which, at the points examined by us, has already attained a sufficient degree of hardness. The masonry of the rest of the walls is of the same kind of stone, laid generally in mortar composed of fat lime, hydraulic lime, and sand. The body of the walls is of rubble work; the buttresses are coursed with a rubble backing. Proper attention seems to have been observed in selecting, for the points requiring the greatest resist- ance, stones of the largest manageable size, as, for example, at the angles, and wher- ever the masonry has been carried to the greatest depth; whilst upon the east fronts, and especially for walls intended to support colonnades only, stones of smaller dimen- sions have been used; showing a sufficient care in the selection and distribution of the materials. A greater proportion of hydraulic lime might have been advantageously used in the upper portions of the masonry, especially in parts last built; but we think it probable that, as the season advances, this mortar will set favorably, except such parts of it as may have been injured by the frost. This is shown by the difference in hardness of that having a favorable exposure, and that laid in the early part of the winter. Before the materials for the superstructure can be brought upon the ground and prepared for the work, sufficient time will have elapsed to show and to arrest the effects of the frost upon the mortar near the exterior part of the foundation. It would also be advisable that the walls be left exposed as long as practicable, before embanking against them. The stone and mortar used in the masonry of the foundations of the Capitol are inferior to that of the extension, according to the comparison we were enabled to make during our late inspection, and also according to the recollection of one of the undersigned, who had numerous opportunities of examining the present building during its progress. At one point of the old wall examined, the mortar was found still soft. The sample taken, however, hardened in twenty-four hours after it had been exposed to the air. 509 The Extensions. In thus expressing our belief in the sufficiency of these foundations, we have refer- ence, of course, only to their ability to support the structure which it is proposed to erect upon them. In conclusion, we have to add, that we received from the architect every assistance, and all the information we desired, respecting the work. The condition in which the work was left at the close of the last season’s operations, and that in which it still remains, is the best, evidence of the honest intentions of all concerned in it. Respectfully submitted: James Kearney, Lieut. Col Topographical Engineers. Thos. J. Lee, Captain Topographical Engineers. [Senate proceedings of March 24, 1852: Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, p. 845.] EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL. Mr. Borland. I submit the following resolution for consideration: Eesolved, That the President of the United States be requested to communicate to the Senate: Any plan which may have been adopted for the extension of the Capitol. A statement of the manner in which the money already appropriated for this object has been expended, and the amount paid to each individual, and for what object or purpose, and the amount, if there be any, of the appropriation unexpended. Copies of all written contracts, and verbal agreements, if any, entered into, from the beginning of the work to the present time, for materials or workmanship, which have heretofore been, or are here- after to be, furnished or done, for the extension of the Capitol. A statement of the materials proposed to be used in the construction of the interior and exterior walls, and porticoes of the Capitol. A statement of the materials proposed to be used in the construction of the frame work and covering of the roofs. A statement of what, if any, plan has been adopted to insure the proper lighting, warming, and ventilating the several apartments of the proposed extension; and what, if any, plan of construction has been adopted, with reference to the principles of acoustics, in order to facilitate hearing in each of the two halls of legislation, and in the Supreme Court, room. As it is a resolution of inquiry, and has some connection with a subject now under the consideration of a committee of this body, I ask unanimous consent to have the resolution considered at this time. There being no objection, the Senate proceeded to consider the resolution. Mr. Borland. Before the vote is taken on the resolution, I beg leave to say a few words, to explain the purpose with which I offer it. It will be recollected that when the joint resolution making an appropriation for the continuation of the work on the extension of the Capitol was before the Senate the other day, I .opposed its adoption. It was subsequently, on my motion, referred to the Committee on Public Buildings, with a view to a thorough examination into the character of the work. In consequence of my remarks on that occasion, I have been made the subject of attack. My course here, in regard to the matter, has been attacked, not only in other quarters, but particularly in the Administration organ, published in this city. My position, and my reasons for it, have been grossly misrepresented. I have been presented before the country as making factious opposition here to a meas- ure of public interest and utility, and upon grounds wholly untenable. I have been put before the public as throwing myself before the mouths of starving men, who were dependent on their labor for support, and had a just claim on this Govern- ment for appropriations of the public money. All this has been evidently done with the view of making a false issue before the country, and putting me in a false posi- tion. But one reason can be assigned for it, in my opinion; and that is, a desire to evade and avoid a just responsibility on the part of this Administration for its public acts. My object, therefore, in moving the reference of my resolution of instructions, 510 Documentary History of the Capitol. offered some time since, to the Committee on Public Buildings, was to ascertain whether the charges which had been made against persons engaged in the construc- tion of the foundation walls of the Capitol were true or not; and now, in carrying out that object still further, in order to get all the facts bearing on the subject, I have moved this resolution of inquiry of the President, so as to ascertain what has been done in the way of a plan, and the mode in which the money has been expended. Another consideration which I think makes the resolution peculiarly proper is this: I learn, from what I consider good authority, that contracts to the amount of about a million ami a half of dollars have already been made by the Executive, with a view of carrying on this work, based on a single appropriation of $100,000 made last year! I desire to know if that be so. If it be so, Congress should take some step — for it surely would be proper — to arrest such a course of proceeding, and to require the Executive Department of this Government, in making contracts for the expenditure of money, to hold itself restricted by the action of Congress, which alone can make appropriations, and judge of their propriety. This is all I have to say. Mr. Badger. I want to say one word before the question is taken on this resolution of my friend from Arkansas. He says that he understands contracts have been made with reference to this work for a large amount beyond the $100,000 appropriated by Congress, and that in case that information should turn out to be true, some steps should be taken by Congress for the purpose of preventing such things in times to come. Why, I believe it never was supposed that when Congress directs a work to be undertaken and executed, and directs an officer to undertake it, the appropria- tion made for expenditures on that work for the current year is to furnish the limit by which lie is to make engagements and contracts for carrying on the work. Con- gress directs a work to be executed — the enlargement of the Capitol, for instance — - but when Congress appropriated $100,000 towards that purpose, it never entered into the imagination of any human being that that was the whole amount of money which was to be expended in execution of the work, but merely that it was supposed to be all that it would be necessary to expend until the reassembling of Congress, when a further appropriation would become necessary. My impression is, that such is, and always has been, the practice of the Government. Mr. Borland. With all deference to the opinion of the honorable Senator from North Carolina, [Mr. Badger,] I must say that I differ from him essentially. My opinion will, of course, pass with others for what it may be intrinsically worth; it certainly is authority for myself. I admit that the appropriation of $100,000 does not limit the President, or the officer charged with the execution of a work, as to the plan of that work — as to the arrangements to be made in view of its continuation and completion. But I have never before heard the position taken, and I am amazed at it now, that the amount of the appropriation did not limit the executive officer as to the amount he should expend. If, upon an appropriation of $100,000 he can make contracts to the amount of a million and a half of dollars, he may with equal propriety make contracts to the amount of every dollar in the Treasury. The principle is the same, the authority of law the same, in both instances. His own discretion is the only limit. But, sir, how can he know, how shall he decide, that Congress will go on with the work, if it is likely to involve an extraordinary amount of expenditure more than was contemplated at the time the appropriation was made? If that posi- tion be admitted, there is no check at all on the Executive. If we pass a resolution or a bill to have a certain work executed, and appropriate a certain amount of money to be expended in its execution, and the President to disregard the limit thus fixed, there is no other limit, no other rule, (according to this position,) by which he can be restrained. Sir, if the position of the Senator from North Carolina be correct, the whole Treasury is in the hands of the President, without restraint from us; and he may go on and make contracts to the amount of five or ten or fifty millions of dollars, and we shall be bound to ratify his acts, and The Extensions. 511 foot the bills. Nor, upon this position, would there be any obligation on our part to see that those contracts were fairly made, or kept within proper bounds. Mr. President, to insist that the expenditures shall be limited to the amount of the appropriations, is the only way in which we can control the use of the public money. We cannot, properly, as a general rule, in the public sets'ice, prescribe the plans, and arrange the methods, of executing the several. works. That, to some extent, must be left to Executive discretion. But the purpose and intention of appropriations — in specific sums, and for specific objects — is to furnish this very check and control for which I contend. It is the only one we can have. We cannot safely give it up. As well might we give the President a general power to take out of the Treasury any indefinite amount of money for any indefinite period, at his pleasure; for it comes to that. But, who would sanction a proposition here, to authorize the Presi- dent, in the execution of this work, to draw from the Treasury any amount of money he might think proper? The Senator from North Carolina himself would not vote for such a proposition as that. Yet that is not different in principle, nor would it differ much in its practical operation from what the President is alleged to have assumed authority to do, and what the Senator’s position would seem to warrant. The President is alleged to have made contracts to the amount of a million and a half of dollars for the execution of a work, for which Congress had appropriated but one hundred, thousand! If he could do that lawfully — if he could exceed the amount we placed at his disposal fifteen times, how far might he not have gone? As lawfully and as rightfully might he have gone to the amount of every dollar in the Treasury. To sanction his doing the one, and to authorize him to do the other, at his discretion, is substantially the same proposition. To my mind there is no difference between them. Mr. Badger. It is the easiest thing in the world for a gentleman to make out a case, by just appending two or three words that nobody has used or thought of. I said nothing about the President having a right to make contracts for any sum he pleased, and that we were bound by them. Nobody imagines such a thing. But when my friend, in anticipation of any such report on this subject, is so eager to cast reflection upon the President of the United States — after offering a resolution, asking for information upon the subject, which is considered by the unanimous con- sent of the Senate — that he will not even permit the resolution to be adopted, with- out suspecting beforehand, that something has been wrong and injurious, it seems to me very singular, indeed, that he should amend the statement which I have made — if it can be called amending — by putting in words which I neither used nor thought of. I say this, that when Congress direct a work to be executed, it is the custom to make appropriations from time to time, as the work advances, and that it is also the custom with those charged with the supervision of the work, whether the President of the United States, or anybody else, to make the preliminary contracts and engagements for the supplies which it is supposed will be necessary in the fur- ther prosecution of the work. But all those contracts and engagements are made conditionally on the appropria- tion being made by Congress for the continuance of the work. There is no intention in the world to control Congress; there is no obligation upon Congress — none upon earth. If we choose to stop the work where it is; if we change our minds, and think it will cost more than it is worth, we will stop just where we are; and the contracts for supplies will be discontinued, and the Government not be charged with the pay- ment of them. Every man must see that in such a work as this, if the person charged with its execution made no contracts, no arrangements, no stipulations with parties to furnish the materials for its further prosecution, then, at the end of every session of Congress, the work would come to a dead stand; and that when another appropriation should be made, a new set of contracts would have to be entered into for the ensuing year; a new set of materials would have to be selected, 512 Documentary History of the Capitol . and new parties charged with the furnishing of them. The necessary consequence of that system would he most expensive and injurious to the Government. Certainly the Executive Government has no right to expend a dollar more than Congress appropriates. Certainly, when a work of this kind is directed to be con- structed, if the Executive Government think it to be advantageous, in anticipation of the future action of Congress — supposing that Congress is in earnest, and means to build two additional wings to the Capitol — to make agreements for persons to supply materials and other things necessary to carry on the work, there is no impropriety in it; because, as I say, every such contract is conditional on Congress prosecuting the work. If the Executive Government do that, then, when an appropriation is made at the next succeeding session of Congress, and the work is to go on, they are in a condition to prosecute it immediately. The effect of the system which, as I understand, is usually pursued, is this: that though the whole subject remains under the control of Congress; although Congress appropriates, from time to time, sufficient money to carry on the work; yet the work goes on steadily without any interrup- tion, unless Congress thinks proper to discontinue it. But if the system which the honorable Senator from Arkansas seems to think is the proper one, were pursued, the work would come to an end each year, and you would have to start with a new set of arrangements and contracts, involving, not the prosecution, continuously, of one original design, but the reengagement and renewal of successive operations through new contractors and new agents, involving as much delay and additional expense as if they were successive new works. That is my idea; but I have no notion in the world that the Treasury of the United States should be placed at the control of the Executive one penny further than Congress places it at his control. In the fair execution of a duty charged npon him, I believe it has been the general course to make contracts for such work in anticipation, but they are all conditional; they bind nobody. Congress may discontinue the work at any point it pleases; and, if it does so, the parties who have made contracts to supply materials are discharged from their obligations, and the Government is under no necessity of taking the materials. Mr. Borland. I am very sorry to trouble the Senate again; but I must say that I do not think the remarks of the Senator from North Carolina do me -justice. He represents me as eager to cast censure upon the President of the United States. Mr. Badger. I really thought so. If I am not correct, I beg pardon. Mr. Borland. I think what I have said on introducing this resolution, indicates no such feeling or purpose. I stated that my object was to ascertain the truth of statements which had been made to me on such authority as at least to commend them to my respect. Now, if the friends of the Administration are not willing that I should ascertain — that the Senate should know — whether those statements be true or not, I am sorry for it; and it does indicate, if it indicates anything in respect to censure, not eagerness on my part to cast censure upon the President , for I have none, and zeal in casting censure, but it seems to me to indicate an unwillingness on the part of the friends of the President, and those who take the opposite ground, that these facts should come out, lest, when ascertained, they may not reflect very cred- itably upon his Administration. That seems to me to be the indication, if any there be. Mr. Badger. Who has manifested any such opposition to the facts coming out? Mr. Borland. I have only asked for a statement of facts — for information which it is necessary for us to have before we can properly proceed to expend the public money. If all this has been done properly, and in accordance with law, there will be no fault to be found with the Administration. It is the information which we want, and which has not been furnished to us, and which no friend of the Admin- istration here is prepared to give. No Senator here can say whether any, or, if any, what plan has been adopted for the prosecution of this work. We well know the course Congress took when it was first proposed to extend the Capitol. A committee The Extensions. 513 of the two Houses was charged with the duty of calling architects before them, get- ting their views, and adopting and reporting a plan for the execution of this work. So important was it considered that a plan should be adopted before any proposi- tions were made, or any steps taken in the execution of the Avork, that the committee Avas engaged for months upon the investigation. It Avas authorized to offer pre- miums to architects for plans, so that they might be sure to get the best. The com- mittee was divided as to the plan. That of each House adopted a plan of its oavu. And these two plans, as I have understood, Avere laid before the President, that one or the other might be selected. Instead of taking either of these plans for the con- struction of a building for the uses and accommodation of the two Houses of Con- gress, and Avhich should have had some adaptation to what they conceived to be their own wants, and comfort, and convenience, the President threw aside both of these, and adopted — what? Nobody knows what. I have been utterly unable to discover that there is now any regular or determinate plan. I, myself, before I vote an appropriation of money to continue this, or any other Avork, 1 must know within certain bounds, at least, what the Avork is to be. I want to knoAV what is proposed to be done, and for Congress to pass upon the plan of the Avork, and say whether it is such as Ave are willing to have — such as is adapted to the purpose for which Ave ordered the extension of the Capitol — such as may suit our vieAvs of commodiousness and convenience in the discharge of our public duties, conserve our health, and pro- mote our comfort, and present a structure to the public view in accordance Avith true architectural principles and taste. I repeat, I have learned that very heavy contracts have been made for this work, which are to extend, in their expenditure, to the full limit, and even beyond the limit of time within Avhich this Administration will be in power. Steps have been taken, as I learn, — and that is Avhat I want to ascertain, — to make contracts beyond the time within which the Administration must retire from office, which may in effect, and may be intended, to hamper and cripple and render abortive the opera- tions of a succeeding Administration, if that Administration should have views more fitted and better adapted to promote and protect the public interests. I have introduced this resolution in order to put the Senate in possession of infor- mation which Avill enable them to decide on all these points, and not for the purpose of reflecting upon the President. These were my motives. An additional motive I had for some of the remarks which have accompanied its introduction, and that was to notice what I consider an unjustifiable attack on my motives for what I said on a former occasion— not because that attack was in a newspaper, but because that news- paper is the accredited organ of the Administration here at the seat of government. Mr. Badger. The Senator from Arkansas has said that there seems to be some dis- position manifested by the friends of the Administration to prevent the obtaining of the information which he has called for. Mr. Borland. I did not say so. In response to what was attributed to me, I did not charge that there was any such umvillingness; but I said, that if there Avas any indication manifested, it Avas an indication of unwillingness to supply this information. Mr. Badger. Well, take it in that way, and I want to know where there is a scintilla of evidence to support the intimation of the honorable Senator. I am a friend to the Administration. My single objection would have prevented the consideration of this resolution to-day. Nobody objected to its being considered. After it Avas con- sidered by unanimous consent, was there a voice raised against it? Not one. But for the honorable Senator’s speech, the resolution would have been adopted in three seconds. Hoav, then, have Ave manifested a disposition, or given ground to imagine, that, in any event, we are opposed to obtaining this information? In no manner whatever. The Senator proceeded to make some remarks in vindication of himself, from what 514 Documentary History of the Capitol. lie says was a charge made against him in a newspaper. To that I have no objection, though it is a kind of vindication which I am not in the habit of making on this floor. The Senator -went, further than that, and, in advance of the information which he called for, proceeded to throw out remarks casting an imputation on the President. Mr. Borland. I made no imputation against him at all. Mr. Badger. I so understood the Senator. The Senator now says that the President of the United States instead of deciding, as he should have done, between the disagreeing committees of the two Houses, has undertaken, without authority, to adopt a plan of his own. Why, surely the Senator from Arkansas has not read the act of Congress which authorizes the commencement of this building. The two committees, if they had been unanimous, had no power over the subject — none in the world. The act of Congress submitted the plan upon which the building was to be erected entirely to the President. In his- decision and judgment under that act he had no assessors at all. The two committees had been employed to collect and prepare plans, and they had been authorized to offer a reward in order to procure the best plan. They sent those plans to the President of the United States to aid him in coming to his conclusions; and, if I am not mistaken — and if I am, the Senator from Virginia [Mr. Hunter] can correct me — the two committees, so far from supposing they had any authority over the subject, took care beforehand to ascertain whether the President would be glad to have those plans, with their views upon the subject, submitted to him. Now, he has done what the act of Congress directed him to do. He may have done it well or ill. About that I say nothing; but certainly he has done nothing unlawfully. He has not put his foot on the plans submitted by the two committees in derogation of their rights, or from a want of respect to Congress. If it was not intended that, the President, of the United States should decide on the plan upon which these wings were to be erected, why did the act, of Congress submit it to him? It was not done by a Congress composed of his political friends, but by one with decided majorities politically opposed to him in both branches. Why u r as it done? I happened to be a member of the committee of conference by which the final terms of that part of the bill were settled. It was done by us because, as we understood, it, had been the uniform custom to place the selection of plans for such buildings under the direction of the President of the United States. That, I believe, was the reason, and the sole reason. Whether he has done it right or wrong, I am not prepared to say. Whether he has adopted a good or a bad plan, I am not prepared to say. All that I say is, that the act of Congress gave him the sole authority of selecting the plan. Mr. Hunter. I have no objection to any call for information which the Senator from Arkansas may think necessary. I am willing that he shall have all the light which he desires on this subject,. But perhaps it is just to the President, especially after what has fallen from the Senator from North Carolina, for me to say, that the law as passed did give him the power of -selecting a plan, and did not confine him to the plans of the committees of the two Houses. Those committees disagreed, and that was one reason why it was left, to the President to select a plan. He did ask for the drawings which had been laid before the committees; he did invite both committees to meet him for the purpose of obtaining their views. I was present as a member of one of the committees, and I believe that all the members of both com- mittees were present, and that he took their views in relation to the matter. So far as the plan which has been adopted is concerned, I believe (and I should be sorry to believe otherwise) that all which concerns the interior of the building is still open to amendment if Congress should desire it. I believe that that will be examined by the committees hereafter, and that they will consult with the President in regard to it. As to the information for which the Senator from Arkansas calls, I see no objec- tion to it, and I am perfectly willing that he shall have it, but I am unwilling to The Extensions. 515 believe that we shall be bound, in relation to the interior of the building, by any plan which may be adopted by the President, or any one else. I do not understand that he has decided on more than the exterior, and I think he will so report. 1 say this because the Committee on Public Buildings design to take up the subject, and to have something to say in regard to the interior of the building. Mr. Borland. I did not desire to constitute myself the expounder of the views or the defender of the action of the Committee on Public Buildings, as I knew they were ready and competent to present them fairly before the Senate. But although the Senator from Virginia, [Mr. Hunter,] and the Senator from North Carolina, [Mr. Badger,] have said the law, as we passed it, did leave the subject to the discretion of the President, yet I did consider, and do now consider, that the clear meaning and the intention of the law was that the President should avail himself of the labors of the two committees, and of the means put in their possession, to get the best plans. My impression was, that it was intended that he should select from the plans pre- sented by the committees. I may have been mistaken in that, but such was, I think, the intention of the law. I so understood it; I so understand it now. The very remark which has been made by the Senator from Virginia, with regard to the plan of the work, is, it seems to me, a sufficient ground of itself for the resolu- tion. Here we have a large work for the public interest and convenience, on which we are to expend a large amount of money. We have shown, as I before remarked, the great importance which we attached to a proper plan. Well, in disregard of the plans laid before the two committees, the work was begun, all the money which we appropriated has been expended; and, as I said, I learn on authority which I believe, and shall continue to credit, until its statements are disproved, that contracts to the amount of a million and a half of dollars have already been made; and yet it is stated, by those who profess to know, that there is no regular or determinate plan for the work — no system for the expenditure of these vast sums of the public money; except such as may, from time to time, at his discretion or caprice, spring from the mind of the President’s architect, and upon his simple order. The very statement made by the Senator from Virginia, shows the necessity of the pjassage of this resolution. Mr. Badger. We are all in favor of it. The resolution was then adopted. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 29, 1852: Congressional Globe, 32 — 1. p. 903.] EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL. A message from the President of the United States was received by Mr. M. P. Fillmore, his Secretary, announcing that in compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 24th instant, relating to the extension of the Capitol, a report from the Secretary of the Interior was submitted, which furnishes, it is believed, the required information. The message was read, and referred to the Committee on Public Buildings. [Senate Ex. Doc. No. 52, 32d Congress, 1st session. Message from the President of the United States communicating, in answer to a resolution of the Senate, calling for information in relation to the Extension of the Capitol, a report of the Secretary of the Interior. March 29, 1852. — Read, referred to the Committee on Public Buildings, and ordered to be printed.] To the Senate of the United States: In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 24th inst. , relating to the extension of the Capitol, I have the honor to submit, herewith, a report from the Secretary of the Interior, which furnishes, it is believed, the required information. Millard Fillmore. Washington City, March 29, 1852. 516 Documentary History of the Capitol. Department of the Interior, Washington, March 27, 1852. Sir: I have the honor to submit to you, herewith, a report from Thomas U. Wal- ter, the architect appointed pursuant to the provisions of the act of Congress, approved 30th September, 1850, which, it is believed, embodies all the information called for by the Senate resolution of the 24th inst. , respecting the extension of the Capitol. I am, sir, with much respect, your obedient servant, Alex. H. H. Stuart, Secretary. To the President of the United States. Architect’s Office, U. S. Capitol, Washington, I). C., March 27, 1852. Sir: The enclosed copy of a resolution of the Senate of the United States, relating to the extension of the Capitol, passed on the 24th inst., having been transmitted to me, by your directions, with a request that I would report thereon, I respectfully proceed to furnish the required information. The plan which has been adopted by the President for the extension of the Capitol is represented by a series of architectural drawings, a perspective view, and a model of the buildings; all of which are in this office, and which I will cause to be depos- ited in the Senate chamber, or such adjacent apartment as may be indicated by the Committee on Public Buildings, whenever so directed. “The money already appropriated for the extension of the Capitol has been expended,” under instructions from the Department of the Interior; a copy of said instructions being hereunto annexed, marked A. An account-current, showing “the amount paid to each individual, and for what object or purpose,” is annexed, marked B; appended to which is a copy of an official letter from the Comptroller of the Treasury, announcing the settlement of the accounts, up to the close of the year. The bills which have since been piaid are shown on the said account, from which it will be seen that “the amount of the appropriation unexpended ’ ’ at this date is $540 03. It will be observed, that the whole amount placed to my credit is $99,308 27, a portion of the appropriation, amounting to $691 73, having been applied to defraying the expenses of founding the building, under your immediate directions, before the disbursements were placed in my charge. “Copies of all the written contracts entered into from the beginning of the work to the present time, for materials or workmanship! which have heretofore been, or are hereafter to be furnished or done,” are appended to this report. No “verbal agreements” of any kind have been made. “The materials proposed to be used in the construction of the exterior walls and porticos of the Capitol” are granite for the sub-basement, and white marble for the superstructure. The granite will be obtained from the quarries at Richmond, Virginia, as per con- tract annexed, and the specifications attached thereto. The marble is to be supplied from the Lee quarries, Berkshire, Massachusetts, as per contract appended, and the specifications thereto annexed. This being the most important contract to be made, a commission of scientific gentlemen attached to government was appointed to test the several specimens offered. The result of their experiments proved this marble to ptossess an almost unparalleled resistance to pressure, and a higher specific gravity than any other. These facts, considered in connexion with its exceeding beauty, and the comparatively low prices for which it is obtained, made it desirable to secure it for the facings of the whole exterior of the buildings, so as to insure a uniformity of appearance throughout. A contract was The Extensions. 517 accordingly entered into to that effect; not, however, without a proviso that the said contract is not binding on government, except so far as Congress may see proper to make the necessary appropriations for carrying on the work. If they should fail so to do, this, with the rest of the contracts, would become null, as will be seen by referring to the documents themselves, which are hereto appended. I shall deposite in the Senate chamber specimens of the marble and granite upon which these contracts are founded. All the contracts are limited to the work pro- posed to be done during the present year, except the marble. In the construction of the “interior” walls and arches, it is proposed to use hard- burnt bricks, laid in cement. It is designed to construct “the frame-work of the roofs” of wrought-iron, and to cover them with copper. No plan for “lighting” the buildings has yet been adopted, any farther than to provide for the introduction of the main pipes for conducting the gas to the several stories. The details of the lighting being a subject that can better be decided on when the buildings are under roof, it has been deemed proper to defer its considera- tion for the present, except so far as it relates to the introduction of the mains referred to. The plan proposed for “warming and ventilating the several apartments,” and the “plan of construction adopted with reference to the principles of acoustics,” are described in my annual report, (Ex. Doc., Senate, No. 33, pages 4 and 5,) a copy of which is hereto annexed. Having answered all the inquiries contained in the resolution referred to, I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Tho. U. Walter, Architect of the extension of the U. S. Capitol. Hon. Alex. H. II. Stuart, Secretary of the Interior. A. Department of tiie Interior, Washington, July 21, 1851. Sir: As the law authorizing the extension of the Capitol makes the architect the disbursing agent, you are requested to give bond, in the sum of §30,000, as security for whatever moneys may be intrusted to you in carrying on the work. You are authorized to employ a clerk, at a salary not exceeding §1,200 per annum, whose duty it shall be to open and keep a set of books expressly for the work of the extension of the Capitol, and to perform all the duties that pertain to the office of clerk, in connexion with your office, under your own direction and supervision. You are to employ a general superintendent of the work, at a salary not exceeding $2,000 per annum, whose duty it shall be to superintend all the day-workmen employed at the work; to appoint all foremen, with your advice and consent; to cause all such foremen to keep accurate accounts of the time the men under their supervision are employed, and to make their affidavits, on their respective pay-rolls, of the correctness of the same. The said general superintendent to have also a gen- eral supervision of every part of the work; to see that all contracts are faithfully executed, and that no fraud nor deception is practised in the delivery of materials. He is to be entirely under your control and direction; and whenever any delinquen- cies or improprieties may occur with any of the contractors or under-officers, he is to report the same to you in Avriting. You are authorized to make such appointments of under-officers as you may deem necessary for the proper execution of the work. You are to make all contracts for work and materials, with the advice and approA r al of this department. 518 Documentary History of the Capitol. You are to pay all bills for work and materials, after having carefully examined and approved them; the said bills having been first examined and attested by the superintendent. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Alex. H. H. Stitart, Secretary. Thos. U. Walter, Esq., Architect of the Capitol. [Accounts, agreements, contracts, and schedules follow.] Specifications for the granite work of the exterior of the extension of the United States Capitol. 1. The exterior of the sub- basement of the wings and corridors on the north and south of the present building to be composed of light-colored granite, of the best quality and of uniform appearance. All the steps leading from the ground to the basement floor, including the front door-sills of the basement story, together with the sub-plinth of the cheek-blocks, to be composed of the same material! 2. All the work to be executed in the best and most perfect manner, according to the accompanying plans, and such detail drawings as may from time to time be furnished in accordance thereto. The whole to be done under the directions of the architect, and to be subject to his approval. 3. The height of the sub-basement, above the ground line, to be three feet six inches, and the lower course to extend six inches below the ground line, making the granite work four feet in height, which will be divided into two courses; the first course to be two feet ten inches high, and twelve inches on the bed, and the second or top course to be fifteen inches high, and four feet on the bed. The top to be cut to fourteen inches on the face, which will give a wash or weathering of one inch. 4. Every stone to be do welled into the stones above and below it, and at each end, and securely cramped to the walls and adjacent stones by means of heavy iron cramps. The joints to be as small as practicable. 5. The floors of the arcades to be flagged with granite at least six inches thick, laid hollow, and a granite slab of five feet seven inches square, and fourteen inches thick, to be placed under each pier. 6. The steps to approach the basement to be fourteen inches tread, and seven inches rise, with square edges, and to be rebated, the one on the other. The number and dimensions of these steps to be found on plans Nos. 5 and 9. 7. The two front door-sills of the basement to be composed of granite extending four feet in from the face of the walls. 8. The sub-plinth of the cheek-blocks to be composed of granite, extending from the ground to the top line of the sub-basement. 9. All the surface of the granite to be finished in the finest and most perfect manner, and to be free from flaws or defects. 10. The general design of the sub-basement to be similar to that of the eastern front of the present building. 11 . The contract for the foregoing work to embrace all the granite for the sub- basement of the afore-mentioned wings and corridors, all the granite cutting and setting, all the hoisting apparatus, tools, and other implements and materials required to carry on and complete the work, including all freight, transportation, hauling, and labor, pertaining to this department of the work, excepting only the iron bars, bands, ties, cramps and dowels, which are to be furnished by the government, and inserted by the contractor or contractors, at his or their expense. Thomas U. Walter, Architect of the Extension of the United States Capitol. Washington, D. C., September 19 , 1851. * * * r The Extensions. 519 Specifications for the marble work of the exterior of the extension of the United States Capitol. 1. The whole exterior of the proposed additions to the Capitol, embracing wings and corridors on the north and south of the present building, as represented on the accompanying plans, to be faced, above the sub-basement, with American marble of the best quality, as nearly white as can be obtained, and of uniform appearance; and the steps, cheek-blocks, porticoes, entablatures, balustrades, window and door dress- ings, and arcades under the porticoes, to be composed of the same material. 2. All the work to be executed in accordance with the accompanying drawings. The architectural details of the new r buildings to correspond, in general character, to those of the present Capitol, except where a difference is shown on the aforesaid drawings, or provided for in these specifications. 3. The piers of the arcades, that support the porticoes, to be wrought on all sides, and the arches to be finished on the inside with key-stones, the same as on the outside. Plain arches to be thrown from pier to pier, as shown by the red lines on plans Nos. 5 and 9, similar to those under the eastern portico of the present building; also a large elliptic arch, corresponding to the large arch under the said eastern portico. 4. Piers and arches corresponding to the arcades, to be constructed against the walls of the building, as shown on plans ^os. 20 and 21. 5. The aforesaid piers to be 4 feet 6 inches square, with plinths 5 feet 4 inches square and 1 foot 8 inches high — the rustics to be 7 inches high and 2 inches deep, and the courses between the rustics to be 1 foot 3 inches ; the whole to be finished according to plan No. 23. 6. The ceiling of the arcade to be composed of marble, resting on a marble cornice of 6 inches in height. (See A, plan No. 23.) 7. Rusticated piers corresponding to those of the arcades, to be constructed around the entire basement of both buildings, as shown on plans. 8. The architectural order of the superstructure to be similar to that of the present Capitol, and the proportions to be the same, excepting only the intercolumniations and inter-spaces of the pilasters, all of which are shown on plans Nos. 6, 10, 12, 13, 14 and 15. 9. Each of the pedestals under the columns to be composed of a single stone 4 feet 6 inches square, and 3 feet high, panelled on all sides. 10. The bases of the columns to be 22 inches high including the plinth, which will be 4 feet 3 inches square. 11. The shafts, exclusive of the capital and base, to be 25 feet 5 inches high; the lower diameter to be 3 feet and the upper diameter 2 feet 7 inches. The upper torus of the base to be cut on the lower frustum of the shaft, and none of the frusta of the shaft to be less than 4 feet in height. 12. The capitals of the columns to be 3 feet 9 inches in height, from the bottom of the torus to the top of the abacus, the proportions to be similar to those of the present building, and the sculpture to be executed in the most perfect and artist-like manner. 13. The entire height of the columns, including capitals, bases and plinths, to be 30 feet, and the whole number in both buildings and corridors to be 96. All the column blocks to be set on milled lead, to prevent fracture at the joints. 14. The pilasters to correspond to the columns in width, height, and architectural ornaments, and to project 7 inches from the walls; the whole number to be 144. • 15. The horizontal joints of the pilasters to agree with the joints of the walls, and to form a bond with the ashlar, without showing vertical joints in the faces. 16. The pedestals under the pilasters to be 4 feet 6 inches on the face, and 16 inches on the returns, panelled on the faces, and each composed of a single stone. The coupled pilasters on the corners to have pedestals 10 feet 6 inches on the face, each 520 Documentary History of the Capitol. to be composed of three stones. All the pedestals under the pilasters to agree in height and architectural finish with those under the columns. 17. The architrave over each intercolumniation to be composed of a single stone, extending from centre to centre of the columns, cut in facia on both sides, and moulded similar to the architrave of the present building; the height to be 2 feet 3 inches; including the architrave band; and the thickness, on the soffit, to be 2 feet 7 inches. 18. The architrave band or regula to extend around the inside of the architraves, the same as the outside, to support the ceilings of the portico. 19. The frieze, cornice, blocking courses, and balustrades, to be composed of mar- ble, in accordance with plans Nos. 22 and 23, and which are similar, in general design, to corresponding features of the present buildings. The pedestals of the balustrade to be panelled on the face, and plain on the inside; the balusters to be joggled into the blocking, and into the cap. 20. The portico floors to consist of marble slabs, at least 4 inches thick, laid on the walls, so as to allow of a circulation of air under them. 21. The steps to be rebated on each other, and the lower steps to have a bed 2 feet, secured to the foundation by iron bars. 22. The cheek -blocks to be constructed of stones, not less than 18 inches on the beds, and the cap-stones of each cheek-block to reach across the entire width, and to be not less than 5 feet wide, and 14 inches deep. 23. The window dressings to be made according to the drawings. The mouldings and details are shown on plan No. 23, and are to correspond in general proportions to those of the present building. 24. The chimneys in the outside walls, being forty in number, in single flues, to be brought out in the pedestals of the balustrade, and to be composed of marble. Those that come out of the roof, consisting of ninety-six flues in sixteen stacks, to be topped out with marble 8 feet above the sheathing; the caps to correspond to those of the present building. 25. The ashlar work throughout the buildings to have beds from 9 to 18 inches, cut square throughout the entire thickness of the stone, and to be slightly free from the square on the front edge, to prevent fracture at the joints. 26. All the marble work, of every description, to be fine-sanded. 27. Every stone in the building to be cramped to the adjoining stone with heavy iron cramps, and to have a strong iron tie, extending into the brick walls. The iron work to be furnished by government, and to be inserted by the contractor or con- tractors, at his or their expense. 28. All the work to be executed in the best and most perfect manner, according to the accompanying plans, and such detail drawings as may from time to time be furnished in accordance thereto. The whole to be done under the direction of the architect, and to be subject to his approval. 29. The contract of the foregoing work to embrace all the marble for the exterior of the wings and corridors above the sub-basement, all the marble work and setting, all the scaffolding, hoisting-apparatus, tools, and all implements and materials required to carry on and complete the same, including all freight, transportation, hauling and labor, pertaining to this department of the work, excepting only the iron bands, bars, Tip", ties and dowels, referred to in article 27. Thomas U. Walter, Architect of the Extension of the U. S. Capitol. Washington, D. C., September 19, 1851. The Extensions. 521 [Senate proceedings of Apr. 9, 1852: Congressional Globe, 32—1, p. 1024.] Mr. Hunter. This is private bill day, and I move to suspend, for one hour, the execution of the order assigning to-day for the consideration of private bills. If the Senate shall indulge me in that request, I design to ask them to take up the joint resolution for the continuance of the work on the two wings of the Capitol. The motion was agreed to. EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL. Mr. Hunter. I now ask that we may be allowed, during this hour, to take up and dispose of the joint resolution to authorize the continuance of the work upon the two wings of the Capitol. If we do not take it up now, I do not know when we shall be able to act upon it; and we ought to have some action immediately. The subject should be disposed of either by rejecting or adopting the amendment of the House of Representatives. I move to take it up. Mr. Borland. I am opposed to taking up this subject at this time; but I think that if we can take it up properly, on any day, according to the view which I take of it, and the jturposes which this joint resolution is to serve, it can very properly be taken up on private-bill day, and on no other day, for I do think that it is, for all practical purposes, a private bill, for the benefit of private individuals. I do not, therefore, think that it was necessary to make a motion to suspend the rules in order to take it up to-day, as it would come up very properly on private-bill day. But one reason why I do not desire it to be now taken up, is this: The chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings [Mr. Whitcomb] is not here, on account of indisposition, and probably will not be here for some time. Another member of the committee, the Senator from Rhode Island, [Mr. Clarke,] was here the other day, but is not here now. It is true, he did agree that the report should be made, but I think the Senator from Virginia, [Mr. Hunter,] who reported the joint resolution, admitted, or at least the Senator from Rhode Island, I am very sure, did say that he concurred in the making of the report. He did not concur in the report itself, but allowed it to be made. Thus the committee were divided, and the report did not receive their full concurrence. I am not authorized to say that the Senator from Rhode Island would make any strenuous opposition to the resolution if he were here; but it is well known that he is decidedly opposed to it; and if he were here, he would, in my opinion, offer such reasons in opposition to it as would probably satisfy a majority of the Senate. His reasons are such as to satisfy me. He did not, how- ever, ask that this matter should be laid over until he came back. He did not desire me to ask it; but, at the same time, he expressed his opposition to the measure; and I am perfectly satisfied, that if he were here, he would offer reasons in opposition to it, such as would satisfy my mind, at least. Mr. Hunter. I can only say, that if the Senator from Rhode Island had asked for the postponement of this subject until he should return, I would never have pressed it. I asked him to allow me to report the joint resolution. It is true, he was opposed to it; but he allowed me to report it. I knew that he was to be absent, and that unless the joint resolution was reported before he went home, there would be no quorum of the committee left. I hope it will be the pleasure of the Senate to consider the subject now. Mr. Rusk. I would inquire of the Senator whether he proposes to go on with this subject after the hour arrives for the consideration of private bills? If he will con- sent that it shall not interfere with the private bills on the Calendar, 1 shall not object to his motion. But if we may judge of the future by the past, we may expect a debate all day bn this measure if it shall be taken up. I know there are cases of the utmost hardship where bills for the relief of parties are upon the Private Cal- endar. There is one case to which I wished to call the attention of the Senate. 522 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Hunter. I will consent to give way in one hour if the joint resolution shall not be disposed of by that time. Mr. Rusk. Then I do not object to it. The motion to take up the joint resolution was agreed to. The question was on concurring in an amendment made in the joint resolution by the House' of Representatives. The resolution as passed by the Senate, proposed to appropriate $10,000 for continuing the work temporarily. The House amendment increases the amount to $500,000. It is in these words: Strike out all after the resolving clause, and insert: “That there be and hereby is appropriated out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appro- priated, for the period between the passing of this resolution and the end of the fiscal year terminating June 30, 1853, the sum of $500,000, for the continuance of the work on the two wings of the Capitol.” Mr. Borland. Mr. President, I place myself in a position before the Senate which is, I well know, not acceptable to a majority here — a position, sir, which is peculiarly unpleasant to myself. I am very sure that no member of the Senate has been more strongly appealed to than I have — none whose feelings have been more wrought upon than myself, in resjiect to this measure. I know that a large number of indi- viduals, poor men, laboring men, have been brought here to work upon the extension of the Capitol. I know their destitution — I know their suffering. Every day, and almost every hour of the day, appeals of the very strongest kind are made to my feelings in their behalf. I am not insensible to those appeals. I am prepared to-day, at this very moment, to vote an appropriation of money to pay these men every dol- lar that is due them, to pay them liberal wages for every day they have been here. I am willing to go to the extent of paying their expenses to their homes, in order that they may be placed in the situation from which they were brought here; so that they shall not suffer by any act of any department of the Government, however unauthorized that act may have been, and as I believe they have been in this instance. I will not leave the laborer, who is poor and innocent, to suffer, if I can help it. But I cannot give votes hereupon a public measure — a measure which is to involve not the mere amount of $500,000, now proposed, but the expenditure of millions besides, the extent of which no one can tell, upon considerations of this kind. I cannot take counsel of my heart, whose sympathies are with the poor, to violate my sense of duty, however strong the appeals may be. I do not believe I have a right to vote for this appropriation, because I do, in my conscience, believe it is for a pur- pose that is not only unnecessary, but improper. For such a purpose I cannot vote away millions of the public money — and, as we all must see, this, though but half a million, is but the beginning of millions upon millions which are to follow it, and be swallowed up in the same vortex of extravagant expenditure. I do not propose, now, to give my views at length upon this subject. I must express my regret, how- ever, at the absence of a member of the Committee on Public Buildings, who, if here, would, in my opinion, be able to give, and would give, such reasons against this bill as would satisfy the Senate of the impropriety of continuing the work, at least in the way and upon the plan in which it has so far gone. He has given the subject a thorough examination. I think he understands it. I know he condemns it. A resolution has been adopted by the Senate, directed to the Committee on Public Buildings, which has not yet been answered; but which, in my opinion, is very material to an understanding of this question. It was an inquiry as to the extension of the grounds, which will be rendered necessary in accordance with the present plan for the extension of the Capitol, so far as that plan has been shadowed forth. This plan will involve the expenditure of a large amount of money for the purchase of additional grounds. It is the opinion of some, that additional grounds will have to be purchased at a cost of at least $1,000,000, perhaps more. But, inasmuch as the Senate have agreed to consider the resolution to-day, of course this consideration will not weigh with them, and I shall not press it. The Extensions. 523 In justice to myself, I must say a word about another inquiry which was directed to the Committee on Public Buildings, in respect to the strength and safety of the foundations of the two wings of the extension of the Capitol. I did believe these foundations were insecure; that they were composed of improper materials, and were improperly constructed; and my resolution of inquiry was intended to ascertain the facts, in those respects, from competent persons. The Committee on Public Build- ings applied to the Bureau of Engineers for officers to make personal examination, and report upon the points in question. Four officers were sent for the purpose, two engineers and two topographical engineers, and they have reported. They sustain, by their report, the good character of the work, saying it is good in materials, good in construction, good in workmanship, and altogether sufficient in structure and strength to sustain all the weight that may be placed upon it. The resolution, to that extent, is answered; and, of course, the answer will be received as satisfactory to a majority of the Senate. Whatever, therefore, may be my opinion of that, report, or of the judgment of those officers, I am unwilling to place myself before the country in the attitude of a critic of a matter involving science, engineering, and architecture, when I pretend to neither science, nor practical knowledge enough of either of these subjects to give effective weight to my opinion in opposition to such authority. But, sir, for myself, I should be uncandid if I did not say that my opinion is not changed, and my judgment is not satisfied. It may be of no great moment, yet I will state it as a fact, as part of the reason of my opinion, that I went in person, together with a gentleman, who, I believe, is bet- ter qualified by practical experience than any man in Washington city, or any who has been here for years, whether engineer, architect, or not, to judge of such work — and he is a member of this Senate — and examined this work. Among other things, we gave particular attention to the mortar used in constructing the walls. With some care we selected what seemed to us, and as I believe, an average specimen of mortar. I have it here, for the purpose of exhibiting it to the Senate. This mortar had been in the walls for months; and yet, in one hour from the time it was taken out, it was in the condition you here see! Sand, sir; sand, and nothing else; save here and there a few detached and uncombined particles of a dirty lime! Whether that be cement or mortar, such as competent architects would use in the foundation of a building which is to be of such immense size and weight, I of course do not pretend, in science, to determine. But this I do say, that so long as my own eyes can see, and my own fingers can feel, or my own memory serves me, as to what I have seen and felt in other mason work, I never will believe that it is such mortar as any man of common sense would permit to be used in building a house for himself, or any com- petent builder would use in doing the work. These scientific gentlemen, however, have pronounced it all good — very good; and that, I presume, will be oracular and conclusive with the majority here, who mean to pass the bill, any how. But, sir, I should do injustice to my estimate of the professional qualifications of these engi- neers, if I did not say, as I verily believe, that were they all, or either of them, employed upon a public work of this character, there is not one of them who would not feel dishonored, if such a piece of work as this should pass from under his hands. But, sir, these two boards of engineers went further, and passed judgment not only upon the work, but upon the architect also. One set indorses his accomplish- ments, and the other his honesty. Personally, Mr. President, I know nothing of this architect; but this I do know, as does all the Senate, that when his name was sent here by the President, for an inferior appointment in the same line of busi- ness — that of assistant architect upon one of our public buildings in one of the States — he was rejected; and thereby pronounced incompetent. Yet, sir, these gen- tlemen say he is both accomplished and honest, and I shall not now controvert their opinion. But let it be noticed, and borne in mind, that in the very teeth of our rejection of him for an inferior appointment, the President has deemed 524 Documentary History of the Capitol. it proper to give him the very highest appointment of the kind in the Union, wherein he is to have the disbursement of millions of dollars, under circumstancse which publicly preclude the Senate from any control over the appointment. So much I do know, and the President knew it, and took such occasion, it would seem, to manifest his respect for the judgment and wishes of the Senate. While, therefore, Mr. President, I have not denied, and mean not to deny, that this architect is both accomplished and honest, as this scientific board of engineers, without being ques- tioned, have certified him to be; and while the President has made him chief archi- tect of the most important public edifice we have ever undertaken to erect, with almost unlimited control over the public money, I cannot forget, and wish others to remember, that it is all in despite of the judgment of the Senate, who upon the only occasion he was ever before them, and that for an inferior appointment, rejected him. I am opposed to the extension of this Capitol, because I believe it is unneces- sary. I do believe (and there are others who agree with me) that the room within the external walls of the present building is all-sufficient, if properly appro- priated, for all our purposes, and will be for fifty years to come. There is, in my opinion, no necessity for any extension; and it is no argument in favor of it, to tell me that we have already expended upon it $100,000. Why, if the exten- sion is not necessary, (and surely it is improper to expend money for it, if it be not necessary,) is it not better to sacrifice the $100,000 already expended, however unwisely, than to sacrifice the millions which must be consumed in the completion of an unnecessary work? I think so. And yet Senators use this as an argument. Sir, if it be an argument at all, it is, to my mind, conclusive against the proposed appropriation. If, because we have already expended $100,000, we are bound to continue the work to the extent of $500,000 more, lest we lose the first $100,000, then the expenditure of the additional $500,000 binds us to a completion of the work, whether we want it or not, no matter if it bankrupt the Government to furnish the means. Such an argument, sir, is like a wedge in a log of wood. If the point but once effect an entrance, the maul of Executive patronage and management will not fail to drive it home to the very head, until the Treasury is riven to the center. But even if the extension were necessary, I am opposed to it on the plan proposed. It may be deemed presumption in one of my poor judgment, yet I do say, that, in my opinion, the proposed extension of the Capitol, with such wings as are spread out before us, and the proportion they sustain towards the rest of the building, will make a structure which I can call by no other name than architectural monstrosity, the like of which has never been seen in any civilized country on the face of the earth. If it may not be deemed profane to make such an allusion, I would say that we should violate no command of Scripture, if we fell down and worshipped it; for it will, indeed, be unlike anything upon the face of the earth, above the earth, or under the earth. It will resemble, more nearly than anything which suggests a com- parison, a mammoth brick-kiln, or some Mexican hacienda, which, as every one knows, is the very burlesque of all architectural proportion. Viewed now from a level from the grounds on the east front, the present building has too little elevation. It is altogether too low for good or imposing effect. It is too squat upon the ground. It is extended too much for its height already. The only good view we can get of it is from the west — from below the hill, whence it derives the advantage of the hill’s elevation. From that point of view, it is, indeed, a noble structure, fine and accurate in its architectural proportions, and of imposing appearance. But, I repeat, from a level, on the other side, it is already too low. Then extend it further, in the same elevation, spread out to double the length, with the same height, and what will it be? It will be of a new order of architecture truly; and, unless some one will suggest a title more characteristic, I propose to call it the Low order. Consider also the inconvenience that will result from the proposed arrangement. The two Chambers of Congress will be about six hundred feet apart; and in conduct- The Extensions. 525 ing the intercourse of the two Houses, the distance to be traveled backwards and forwards will be something like a quarter of a mile! Then, again, when these two wings are erected, and the two Chambers are estab- lished, one in each, what is to be done with the present building? It will be a series of great lumber rooms, making up an immense covered way from one Chamber to the other! Nothing more. I have now very briefly stated some of the grounds of my opposition to this bill. I did not expect, and have not attempted, to state them in full. I have felt from the first that all I, or any one else, could say in opposition, could not weigh a feather against the predetermined and fixed purpose of a majority to pass it. What I have said, therefore, has been for my own satisfaction, in order to place upon the record, and for the information of my constituents, some of the reasons which govern my vote. T have no more to say at present. Mr. Walker. I should like to have the reports of the engineers read. The Secretary accordingly read them. They are appended to the report of the Committee on Public Buildings, which was made in response to a resolution of the Senate directing the committee to make a thorough examination of the work thus far executed on the extension of the Capitol, as to the uniformity of the strata upon which the walls rest— as to the quality and dimensions of the stone, and quality of the mortar used — as to the character of the work, the mode of its construction, and its power of resistance — and as to every other matter and thing connected therewith as might, in their opinion, affect the stability and permanency of the whole structure. By that resolution the committee was empowered to bring to their aid such of the United States topographical engineers, and other competent persons, as they might think proper; and hence they addressed letters to General Totten, of the Engineer Corps, and to Colonel Abert, of the Topographical Engineers, requesting them, each, to detail two competent officers for the purpose of making such an examination as was contemplated by the Senate. General Totten detailed Captain Frederick A. Smith and Brevet Lieutenant Colonel Mason, both of the Engineers; and Colonel Abert detailed Lieutenant Colonel James Kearney and Captain Thomas .T. Lee, of the Topographical Engineers. The results were reported separately by the engineers of the two corps, whose reports were read at the request of Mr. Walker, thus: [Already given in Senate Kept. No. 163, 32 — 1.] Mr. Brodhead. I desire to submit an amendment that will test the question as to whether we will proceed to prosecute this work — whether we will proceed to the expenditure of §5,000,000 more, or whether we will abandon it, after having expended §100,000, and pay the men. Mr. Hunter. I desire to ask a question of the Senator; I do not propose to speak on this. Why does he say five millions? The estimate is two and a half millions. Mr. Brodhead. I understand it will take about five millions. Two and a half millions is the estimate; I think that sum can be much better expended in some other parts of the country. If we get through with four or five millions for the work, including the extension and improvement of the grounds, I shall be very glad. I do not propose to discuss this question. I desire to act, and act decisively. I offer an amendment, to strike out all after the word “that” in the resolving clause, and insert the following: “To enable the architect, appointed by the President of the United States, in pursuance of the act of Congress, approved February 13, 1850, to remove the walls designed for the extension of the Cap- itol, restore the grounds, and pay the laborers up to the present time who have been out of employ- ment, in consequence of the suspension of the work, the sum of $20,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary, be and the same hereby is appropriated, and directed to be paid to said architect, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated; the accounts of said architect to be settled by the accounting officers of the Treasury, as accounts are now by law audited and settled: Provided, That said architect shall pay all the laborers who have been out of employment, in consequence of the suspension of the work, the same amount which they would have earned had the work not been suspended or the appropriation exhausted.’’ 526 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Bradbury. Mr. President, I have felt constrained, after careful consideration of the subject, to doubt the propriety of passing this bill. It will at once be per- ceived, that the true question is, whether we will go on with the contemplated enlargement of the Capitol, or abandon it altogether. This enlargement contemplates the erection of two vast structures, one on each side of the present Capitol, at a cost of several millions of dollars, for the accommodation of the Senate and House of Representatives. It contemplates the abandonment of the present Capitol as the place for the meeting of Congress. Both the Senate Cham- ber and the Hall of the House are to be abandoned. We, in effect, shall declare that after millions expended in the erection of this magnificent structure, it is a failure — that Congress cannot be accommodated in it — and two other buildings are necessary to furnish the accommodation which was designed to be provided by this. I cannot see this Chamber or the Hall of this House abandoned by Congress without regret. It appears to me to be both inexpedient and unnecessary. This Chamber is large enough for the accommodation of the Senate for the present, and for a long period to come. There is room for additional seats for the Senators from all the new States that are likely to be soon admitted. It is not very probable that the high privilege of admission as a State into the Union will be cheapened by admitting them too hastily. As to the Hall of the House of Representatives, it is said there is difficulty of hearing in it. But are we sure that this difficulty will be avoided in the construc- tion of the new Hall? The embarrassment in the transaction of business seems, however, to arise quite as much from the use of desks, and the consequent occupation upon other matters, as from any defect in the Hall itself. Remove those desks, and bring the members more compactly together, so that instead of being distracted by other subjects, their atten- tion may be given to the questions immediately before them, and much of the incon- venience now complained of would be avoided. The room is sufficiently spacious, unless the number of Representatives is very considerably increased — and there appears to be a disposition averse to enlarging the number to any considerable extent. If new Halls are constructed as large as are contemplated, and with gallaries as spa- cious as is proposed, I greatly fear that difficulties and inconveniences will be experi- enced, quite as great as those we are now seeking to avoid. I do not believe it will be likely to work any improvement in the legislation of Congress, or the character of the discussions, to provide immense galleries, and all the arrangements for a public exhibition, in order to secure the attendance of great crowds of spectators. The debates now partake full enough of the character of declamation, rather than a dis- cussion of the questions under consideration. The facilities now enjoyed afford tolerably ample opportunity for ascertaining what is going forward. Regarding the present Capitol as too commodious to be abandoned, I cannot feel justified in going on with an experiment, without necessity, and at great expense, to erect buildings, for the purpose of obtaining halls, which, when completed, may not prove any more convenient than those we now have. I would much prefer to see a portion of the money these buildings would cost employed in improving and embel- lishing the public grounds from the Capitol to the Monument. I will only add, by way of precaution, that while I would discontinue the proposed work, I utterly repudiate all idea of abandoning this place as the capital of the Union. Mr. Hale. I simply rise to express a wish that we may have a vote. I concur fully in the sentiment of regret expressed by the Senator from Maine, that we should have to abandon this Hall. But, Mr. President, we have got to do it; and I want to do something for those who remain after I leave. It never occurred to me that one of the objects of the extension was an improvement in the character of the debates; but if there is a possibility of such being the effect, by all means let the work go on. I rose to express a hope that we will have a vote, and that no Sen- ator will make a speech unless he thinks that he will influence some one. I do not think that I can do so, and therefore I pray for a vote. The Extensions. 527 Mr. Brodhead. I concur in the idea of taking the vote now. I had intended to make some remarks in favor of the amendment, but I comply with what I consider to be the general desire in the Senate, to have the vote taken at once. I ask the yeas and nays on the amendment. Mr. Douglas. I merely wish to ask one question before I vote on the amendment. I am very clearly of opinion that the present Capitol is large enough to accommo- date the House of Representatives and the Senate, either in regard to the Halls or the other conveniences. If the object, in abandoning the work, is with a view to the removal of the Capitol to the center of the Republic, it may be, in the opinion of some, a proposition worthy of consideration, if, on the other hand, the object is to abandon it, to leave it merely as it is, I cannot consent to that. If it contemplates, as an ulterior object, the building of a Capitol in a more central situation in the Republic, perhaps Western members should understand that object before we take a vote on the question. Mr. Brodhead. I think I can answer the inquiry of the Senator from Illinois. I do not think that the building of this extension of the Capitol will at all influence the decision as to whether this will be the permanent site of the seat of Government, or not. I do not think that the expenditure of four or five millions of dollars to build this extension, will influence the action of our Western friends on this question. If we expended twenty millions, I do not suppose that fact would induce them to vote one way or the other. If it is desirable to have the Capitol removed to some more convenient place, I presume that this trifling expenditure of four or five mil- lions will not affect the question. Mr. Walker. I shall vote for this amendment, and 1 desire to state why I shall do so; for whether Senators may feel an interest in my views or otherwise, there are those who may; and, as the motives of Senators in many of the votes which they may give are liable to be inquired into at home, I will give my reasons for my vote on this occasion, in order that my motives may not be misunderstood. However, Mr. President, I shall do so very briefly. This amendment proposes to stop the work where it is, so far as the erection of the wings of the Capitol is concerned. It proposes also to restore the grounds to the condition in which they were before this work was commenced. It further proposes to pay the laborers what they would have earned, if they had been continued in employment. The last proposition, I think, is fair and just to them, and the first, and perhaps the best and most expedient thing that the Govern- ment can do in regard to the work itself. I believe that the plan adopted is one which will never answer the purpose designed, or, at least, that it will not answer that purpose half so well as many other plans which might be adopted. I believe that it will destroy the architectural beauty of the Capitol altogether — that it will make it what has been very justly termed by the Senator from Arkansas, “an archi- tectural monstrosity.” It will render it inconvenient to such a degree as to render it almost impossible to transact the business of legislation, especially at the close of a session. I am of opinion also that the proposed enlargement is altogether greater than is necessary — perhaps as large again as the dimensions contemplated by the committee which had that matter under charge at the last session of Congress. It is detached from the rest of the building; it will run beyond the limits of the public grounds; and it will incur an enormous expenditure, which, as has been well observed, is chiefly to be incurred for the benefit of private individuals. But, sir, taking another view of the matter, I must say that I shall be opposed to the stopping of this work, if it is to operate to the injury of those who have in some measure been made helpless by its delay, and on whom the action of Congress has imposed a burden which is hard to be borne. I allude to the laborers employed on the work. I have listened with great attention to the report of the engineers who have examined this work. I do not profess to be an architect myself, nor a mechanic experienced in this kind of work. I do not know how many Senators have inspected 528 Documentary History of the Capitol. the work, but I know that some of them have; and, so far as I have heard them speak in regard to it, not one of them has spoken otherwise than in terms of dissat- isfaction; and when we come to reflect upon the reasons of that dissatisfaction, it seems to me perfectly astounding that such a report should have been made. Every- body knows the difference between the tenacity of India rubber and common sand. It requires but little experience to detect the difference. Every one knows what would be the effect of exposure of a wall to the weather, and what would be the result at the distance of four feet within. Any one can tell the difference in the capability of a cobble-stone and a shell-stone, or a solid block of stone used in the foundation to sustain the superstructure; and so far as I have heard Senators speak of this matter, who have personally inspected it, their opinion is, that the work thus far has been improperly constructed. My investigations in respect to the material of which these foundations have been constructed, have led me to several discoveries. I passed to the side of the wall, and took my cane — which is a slender one, and not pointed with i ron — and I put it in one of the cracks, and actually run it to the full length of the cane into the wall. I noticed that a part of the filling of the wall was of brickbats, and I spoke of it to sev- eral persons. They said it could not be possible. I assured them it was so; and, that I might be doubly certain myself, I went to the place where I had seen the brickbats before, and, lo and behold! they were not there. It was during a little rainstorm, and I looked in vain for them where I had seen them, for the brick and mortar had all fallen out. I then looked further, to see if I could find similar places; and I can go with Senators and show them where I found five hundred brickbats. I can go further, notwithstanding the report. I will say that I can find places where, with a common teaspoon, I can scoop, from the outside of the wall, the mortar, as easily as a man can scoop up mush — or hasty-pudding, as it would be called at the North. [Laughter.] Will you tell me, then, that this is the proper kind of material with which to con- struct a wall like that? Have I never seen a log-cabin put up? Have I never seen a common chimney, or brick building pulled down? And have I not seen the great difficulty with which the mortar is removed from the stones and brick? It is one of the most difficult things to be done, and, instead of using a mason’s trowell, they most commonly make use of a hatchet. Yes, sir, with my little finger-nail I can remove the mortar from the outside of that wall. I can show a distance of four feet up and down that wall where there is not a stone as large as my head, and I defy all the engineers between this city and Kamschatka to point out one as large as my head. And then, to help out this wretched material, they have inserted brickbats, which fall out with every rainstorm. These are the facts; and it seems to me that Senators cannot have inspected that wall, or they would not have their brains so turned round as to look with favor upon such a report as w r e have had on this subject. I know not the men who make the report; but God Almighty only knows how they can give such a report as that. To me it is utterly inexplicable, and probably will be to the day of my death. I repeat, again, that I can go, and with one finger pick out brickbats from the out- side of this wall, which has been exposed for six months. I have done so. Some of the Senators have examined the walls with me; and so far as we have done it, it has been done, not as builders or architects — not as men of science, but as Senators; and those with whom I have made this examination have expressed themselves dissatisfied with regard to the quality of the work. Then, while I would not do anything to injure a single person who has been kept here during a long and severe winter, waiting for employment — while I would not deprive them of a single dollar, but would pay r them — as the Senator from Arkansas [Mr. Borland] has said he would do — a month’s wages, and, if justice requires it, would pay them after they get home, I am not for going on to continue the building; in the first place, because The Extensions. 529 the character of the structure, as commenced, is not such as is suited for the purpose for which it is to be used; and, secondly, because it is to be erected on a foundation of such a character that I do not believe those who have made a favorable report upon it will live to three score years and ten, or even to half that period, before they will regret the opinion they have given. I cannot believe that such a structure can be built up upon brickbats and cobble-stones and not crack and fall to pieces. The yeas and nays were then ordered. Mr. Cass. I want to say one word, and only one word. I voted against this appropriation originally. I did it on the ground that the subject had not been at all considered. It was brought up, put in one of the general appropriation bills, and pushed hastily through without due consideration. I appreciate as much as any one the necessity of other rooms for the House of Representatives, and, in some meas- ure, for the Senate. I have no doubt that the room now occupied by the House of Representatives is the worst room in the world for hearing — the worst room in the world; and I think that every just consideration in regard to correct legislation, as well as what is due to the public, requires that they should have a better room. What I was afraid of was, that the architect would sacrifice everything to the beauty of architecture. I was afraid that, instead of looking to the just principles of acous- tics, he would look to the ornaments of the structure, and that we should have the same number of breaks in the room as we have now. But I am told that he has avoided that, and that it is to be a plain room, where the sound will be reverberated perpetually till it is all expended. We have gone on so long that I think we should continue the work, for I don’t like this eternal vacillation in legislation on any subject. Although I voted against the proposition in the first place, I think we should now go on till the work is completed. If it were a simple vote for the commencement of the work, I should vote now as I did before. The question was then taken and resulted — yeas 11, nays 30, as follows. * * * So the amendment was rejected. The President. The question now recurs on the adoption of the amendment of the House of Representatives. Mr. Dodge, of Iowa. I desire to offer an amendment. It is to strike out the words “five hundred thousand,” and insert “two hundred and fifty thousand.” Mr. Borland. Before the vote is taken on that amendment, I would inquire of the Senator from Virginia, what amount has been asked for by the Executive for the continuation of this work? Mr. Hunter. I am not able to answer the question of the Senator with certainty; but my opinion is that the Secretary of the Interior recommended 1350,000. The House of Representatives substituted $500,000. I suppose that if a work of this kind is to go on, this sum would not be too much, as it will not probably be completed within five years. I believe, although I only speak from imperfect recollection, that the estimate of the Secretary of the Interior was $350,000. Mr. Mangum. I would inquire of the chairman of the Committee on Public Build- ings — for so I understood him to say — if the $500,000 voted by the House of Repre- sentatives for this work is designed to cover not only this fiscal year, but to go to the end of the fiscal year 1853? Mr. Hunter. Yes. sir. Mr. Mangum. And I would further inquire, whether, for that time, that sum is not much less than the Secretary of the Interior requested — whether it is not dimin- ished one half? Is that so, sir? Mr. Hunter. Yes, sir. That is so. Mr. Borland. I have examined with some care the report made by the architect, and it appears that the whole of the materials, so far as I can judge, for the whole II. Rep. 646 34 530 Documentary History of the Capitol. building have been contracted for. Everything seems to be under contract, even to the term of some five years. In view of this, let the Senate notice, and let the country know, that this Admin- istration, upon a simple appropriation of $100,000 — and that, as remarked by the Senator from Michigan, [Mr. Cass,] without much time allowed for consideration — ■ put into a general appropriation bill at the hurried close of the session, and put there in very peculiar phraseology, has placed at the discretion of an individual who is not an officer of the Government, and with whose appointment the Senate had nothing whatever to do, the expenditure of millions of dollars of the public money. Sir, if we recognize and sanction such acts as these — and surely we are doing so by this appropriation — we recognize the authority of the Executive, upon any appropriation, whether large or small, to involve this Government in debt to any amount, extend- ing through any number of years. It may suit the views which some gentlemen entertain of Executive omnipotence and infallibility to allow this, and to sanction it. It is not in accordance with my sense of duty and responsibility. I shall vote against it. This is not the mere appropriation of $250,000, or of $500,000. It is, in effect, whether the Executive has unlimited power and control over the public Treasury — whether, upon a little appropriation of $100,000, the President can, wdthout consult- ing Congress, incur obligations for the Government, and involve us in a debt to the amount of millions, and throughout an indefinite period of time. These are the questions, and this is the issue. It seems to me if eve sanction the President’s unau- thorized acts in this instance, we abandon the only ground upon which we can resist any of his unauthorized acts hereafter. I, for one, will not abandon that ground. Regard this matter in any aspect we may, and it seems to me that the course of the President, as well as the proposed action of the Senate, is among the most extraor- dinary that I have ever been called upon to consider. Here, sir, under the very limited authority derived from three little lines in a general appropriation bill, passed hurriedly at the very heel of a session, to expend the specific sum of $100,000, -we find the Government involved to the amount of millions of dollars, and for at least five years in the future! And through what sort of instrumentality? Why, sir, through an individual who is no officer of the Government, and who, what- ever may be his relations to the President, certainly owes no official respon- sibility to Congress, the only source in which the people have deposited the money power of this Government! And that individual one whom the Senate refused to concur with the President in appointing to an inferior and far less responsible position! Sir, this is, indeed, an anomaly in the transactions of this Government. The like of it — or even an approximation to it — I have never wit- nessed, I have never heard of before — God forbid I should ever witness or hear its like again. And yet, if we sanction it, as we shall do by the passage of this bill, is it not an invitation and encouragement to the Executive to repeat it? If he has gone so far upon one hundred t housand dollars, what may he not do upon five times that amount! Look, sir, at the checks and guards we throw around the disbursements of the public money, and every other responsible function, in every other branch of the public service! Why, there is not a purser in the Navy, a paymaster, quartermaster, or commissary of subsistence, in the Army; not a postmaster throughout the country, whose salary is $1,000 a year — nay, sir, not a justice of the peace in the District of Columbia, in whose appointment does not require the concurrence of the Senate. And yet, in this instance, where far more important duties are to be performed, where far heavier responsibilities should be borne, and where millions of the public money are to be expended at discretion, an individual is intrusted with all these important and delicate duties, and put in the place of this high responsibility, whose appointment not only has not our concurrence, but has, long since, for a far inferior and less responsible position, been rejected by us! Surely, sir, further comment upon this is unnecessary. It may have no influence here. I have put it upon the record, that it may go to the country. The K. vtensions. 581 Mr. Hunter. I have received the estimates in regard to which the Senator from North Carolina [Mr. Mangum] made an inqury a few moments ago. The Secretary of the Interior estimates $350,000 for the balance of this year, and $650,000 for the next year, making a million in all. The House of Representatives, however, cut it down to $500,000, meaning this appropriation to extend to the end of the fiscal year 1853. Mr. Rusk. I. really must claim the fulfillment of the pledge of the honorable Senator from Virginia, that this bill should be postponed when the hour for taking up private bills should arrive. That hour has long since passed. Several Senators. Let us have a vote. Mr. Dawson. The declaration having been made by the Senator from Arkansas that the present architect had been rejected by the Senate, when nominated for a situation similar to that which he now holds, the presumption is, that the rejection was in consequence of his want of capacity. That impression will do injustice to the Senate, as well as to the individual, if it goes to the country in that form. It was known — if I may reveal what takes place in Executive session — that that was not the cause of his rejection. The nomination was for the post of assistant architect in building the custom-house at New Orleans. Mr. Mangum. You cannot speak on that subject. Mr. Dawson. I will state my own views. The President. The Senator cannot reveal Executive proceedings in the Senate. They cannot be spoken of during legislative sittings, nor in any case, unless the injunction of secrecy is removed. Mr. Dawson. I will not refer to anything, only to say that his rejection had no reference to his competency. Mr. Rusk. Mr. President, I must claim the fulfillment of the pledge of the Senator from Virginia. Mr. Hunter. I will give way to the wish of the Senator from Texas, if such is the pleasure of the Senate. Several Senators. Let us have the question. Mr. Seward. We can dispose of the bill to which the Senator from Texas refers, after this is disposed of. Mr. Dodge, of Iowa. Mr. President, I know that this bill will pass by an over- whelming majority, just as the French spoliation bill will pass whenever it comes up. And it will no doubt pass the sooner on account of the very great amount appro- priated. We send a bill to the House of Representatives appropriating $10,000, and it comes back with an amendment making it appropriate half a million. Just look at the galleries on this occasion, and witness the appeals that are made to the better sympathies of our nature. I should be glad if an amendment could be inserted, that $500,000 shall be given for this object, when all the other objects of utility in the West which have been so long waiting for aid shall be completed. But I know we are destined to have another battle for our Western waters, before this Congress adjourns. And about that time, after all these public buildings have been made to tower up to the clouds, and all the dry-docks on all our coasts shall have been provided for, and all the paymasters and quartermasters in the country, then there will be all sorts of efforts made to cripple our appropriations. But I will not detain the Senate. I know the bill will pass by an overwhelming majority, but not by my vote. Mr. Borland. Mr. President Mr. Rusk. I hope the Senator will allow me to say a word. It is evident we can- not get a vote on this question to-day. Mr. Mangum. Yes we can. Mr. Rusk. I think it is evident we cannot. I came here this morning to ask the attention of the Senate to a private bill, that would not occupy five minutes to pass 532 Documentary History of the Capitol. or reject it. It is in favor of a widow lady upwards of eighty years of age, an heir of a revolutionary soldier, whose pension was suspended for several years, because he went out of the United States to Canada. The daughter of that lady is here without any means of support, and subjected to incur considerable expense, and unable to employ any one as an agent in her behalf. If this debate goes on, the result will be that at the close of the day, there will not be a quorum left here to act upon any pri- vate bill, and we shall not be able to pass the bill for the relief of this lady to-day. Mr. Borland. I know that Senators who desire to pass this bill are impatient of delay; and I have no desire to make factious opposition to it — I make none. But I have objections to the bill, and though I feel very sure that I cannot defeat its pas- sage, yet it is my privilege, and I believe it to be my duty, to make known the motives which actuate me, and place upon record the reasons which control my course. The Senator from Iowa [Mr. Dodge] has very properly called the attention of the Senate to the circumstances connected with our legislation for improvements on our Western waters. We know very well the difficulties we had to encounter here, the kind of opposition we met last year, and the means by which appropriations for those objects were defeated. We found Senators then influenced by constitutional scruples, and all other kinds of scruples that could raise up or suggest opposition to an appropriation of about $2,000,000, because a portion of it — a small portion, too — was destined to the great valley of the West. We found all sorts of opposition made, all sorts of expedients resorted to, which legislative tactics could suggest or tolerate, to defeat what we not only believed, but felt, to be proper and necessary appropria- tions. Appeals on behalf of the multitudes of our people, who are annually destroyed for want of those facilities and that protection to Western navigation, which have never been refused to the Eastern section of our country, — appeals were made, but made in vain, to the sensibilities, and to the sense of justice, of Senators. A few hundred thousand dollars — less, sir, than the amount of this bill — could not be appropriated, because of Senators’ scruj)les ! Where are their scruples now? The Treasury is to be opened tp its core, and millions are to be taken out, for what we regard as an unnecessary and an improper object — a mere useless, nay, a worse than useless, expenditure of money; and, to attain that object, this wedge of $500,000 is to be driven in, until all the fastenings of our national coffers shall be rent asunder, and the treasures they contain, coined out of the sweat of our people, laid open to the grasp of irresponsible agents, whose only care seems to be the expenditure of the largest sums in the shortest time ! Let not Senators complain, therefore, at a few obstacles thrown in the way — at a little time taken for examination of this pet scheme of theirs, by those w'ho regard the expenditure of millions to which it will lead, as so much taken from our urgent and legitimate wants for mere fancy works here at this seat of Federal power, and in violation, too, as we think, of all propriety, of all those principles which should govern, and all those rules which should be observed in dispensing the public treasures. No, sir; it is no factious opposition we make. We only wish to be heard. Our claims have been postponed long enough — alas, too long already, for no year rolls by us without leaving thousands of our people dead upon the waters, and millions of our property swallowed up, because of your refusal to extend that amount of relief and that measure of protection which we think and feel you owe us. We cannot stand idle, and silent, and unmoved, when we see you squandering millions upon unnecessary works, and know that we are to suffer in consequence of a postponement of our reasonable and just demands by being coolly told that the Treasury is exhausted. Mr. President, it is enough to raise in our hearts the strongest feelings of indigna- tion, when, remembering the injustice we. have been made to bear, we see millions, The Extensions. 533 at the mere Executive bidding, freely poured out, not with the avowed, or even acknowledged purpose, but certainly with the effect, as all must see, to fill the pockets of certain speculators who hover about this city, as vultures about a carcass, to feed and fatten upon the Government; filling the cities’ purlieus and the Congressional galleries, and sometimes its lobbies, and making up that outside pressure which is annually filling the Treasury to repletion from the people’s hard-earned money, but that it may be squandered in the hopeless task of filling the remorseless daughters of the horse-leech, whose cry, still and unceasing, is “Give! Give!!” When I speak of this outside influence, and of people in the galleries, I do not allude to the laborers who have been employed in this work upon the Capitol. No, sir; they, however humble they may be, however unfortunate thay may seem to be, have my respect, and my heart’s strongest sympathies. But, sir, 1 allude to that heartless set — or whose hearts, if they have any, are as hard and as cold as the blue stone, and as worthless as the mortar in those walls of which we have spoken — of that set who, wrapped in the hypocritical garb of sympathy for the laborer, but to cover their own selfishness, have imposed upon these poor men, and would now use them as instruments to extend their own obscene grasp still deeper into the public purse; who speculate alike, as occasion may permit, upon the necessities of the labor- ing man, and the sympathies of members of Congress; and who, through the medium of a hireling press, (not all the press, thank Heaven, ) denounce members of Congress w r hom they do not find pliant to their purposes, and seek to hold them up to the world as hard-hearted and unfeeling. I wish to put upon the record this expression of the opinions and feelings I entertain on this subject ; so that, however much I may be misrepresented and maligned in this latitude, for doing my duty, by those whose foul pockets I refuse to fill out of the public Treasury, I shall, at least, convey to my plain and unpretending, but just-minded and honest-hearted, constituents at home some idea of the true state of things here, and of the motives which govern me, and of the reasons which determine my votes. Mr. Dodge. I ask for the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were accordingly ordered. Mr. Underwood. I have a few remarks only to make. I sympathize with the honorable Senator from Arkansas, and from Iowa, in a great deal that they have said. I have asked the Senate once or twice, to take up a measure in reference to our West- ern waters, but have not been able to succeed; but this measure has come up without any difficulty. Notwithstanding my sympathy with them, I see the day is coming, and is near at hand, when the valley which they and I represent in common, will have a strong voice in this and the other branch of Congress, and when objects which we have at heart will, perhaps, have more voices; and I hope as able heads to support them as any we have now. But, notwithstanding all that sympathy, I shall vote differently from my friends on this occasion, and I think it due to myself, as reluctant as I am to consume the time of the Senate, to state why I shall differ from them. 1 do it because it is not an original question. I was opposed to the plan of extending the Capitol in the beginning; but you have commenced the work, and you have appropriated money, and expended some hundred thousand dollars in its prosecution. Now, for reasons assigned by the Senator from Michigan, [Mr. Cass,] for the stability of our legisla- tion, for the prevention of oscillation, which would place us in a ridiculous attitude before the public, I am willing to execute the plan which has been adopted. Suppose you begin the construction of a custom-house, lay its foundations, and spend a hundred thousand dollars, and then repeal the law; suppose you begin a marine hospital, and expend a hundred thousand dollars, and then repeal the law — what an attitude would the Congress of the United States occupy in the estimation of the American people, if they would thus dot the whole country over with public buildings and public works, partially constructed, and then abandon them and the law 534 Documentary History of the Capitol. without going any further? Sir, I think we should lose in the estimation of the pub- lic more by presenting such a spectacle than by spending the millions which perhaps we may have to spend before this structure is completed, although I think, like my friends, that the money could have been spent infinitely better in another way. As to the idea of fixing the seat of Government here by this expenditure, it will not have that effect whenever the West think it best to have it removed. You can not tie it down by dollars and cents. I thought it necessary to make these few remarks, in order to account for my vote. Mr. Borland. I am glad the honorable Senator from Kentucky has made one sugges- tion in assigning the reasons for his vote; not that I think it a good one, nor that he will insist upon it as good; but because, in connection with it, I desire to call the attention of the Senate to one fact. He exclaims, what an attitude the Government will be placed in, if it begins works of this sort, expends money upon them, and then abandons them! He asks how it would look for the Government to commence the erection of a custom-house, and expend $100,000, and then repeal the law, or aban- don the work? Does he not know that that is precisely the course which has been pursued in respect to improvements on the Western rivers? Does he not know that it has caused more mischief, and the loss of more money than any other course that could have been pursued? Such a course as this, in regard to the West, was and is the just ground of complaint against the course pursued by the last Congress. It was the custom, in former Congresses, to appropriate a small sum, enough to remove a few logs from the rivers; and when the appropriation was exhausted, did they make another? No, sir; they have left the whole Western valley “dotted all over,” as the Senator expresses it, with unfinished works, and now requiring more money than it would have taken in the beginning to complete them. Mr. Underwood. I hope for better times. Mr. Borland. Sir, it is too late for the Senator to say that the Government must not put itself in that position before the world, — that its reputation repudiates such a course. So far as precedent is concerned, they are as “plenty as blackberries.” And, so far as my vote is concerned, it is no matter to me whether we have begun the work, or how much we have expended. If, after it is begun, even if at first I had approved it, I discover that it is improper and unnecessary, I shall vote for abandoning it; while, on the other hand, even if I had opposed it at first, I should vote for it now, if I found it proper and necessary. Because we have expended a hundred thousand dollars, or half a million of dollars on a work, and now find it unnecessary, wherein consists the reason why a million more should be wasted on it? Sir, we live to little purpose, if we are but to follow out in the future the course we have pursued in the past. Shall we not profit by our own experience? It seems to me that the argument of the gentleman, if followed, would put us in a strange posi- tion indeed. It is a new version of the doctrine of precedent, which involves its advocates in inextricable dilemmas. Mr. Dodge. If I am at liberty, I will modify my amendment, so as to make it $300,000, instead of $250,000. The President. The amendment may be modified in the manner suggested by the Senator, with the unanimous consent of the Senate. The amendment w r as accordingly so modified, and the question was taken, and resulted — yeas 16, nays, 24. * * * So the amendment was rejected. Mr. Borland. I have an amendment which I wish to offer. It is to strike out all after the word that, and insert the following: To enable the proper officers of the Government to pay the laborers who have been employed on the entension of the Capitol the same amount of wages which they would have received had they been employed up to the present time, and one month’s wages in addition. The Extensions. 535 I do this to present, as it does, my views and feelings, in regard to the laborers, whose hardships have been so much talked of here. And it serves me with an occa- sion, too, to mark, and disprove the willful, malicious, and slanderous misrepresenta- tions of my motives and purposes, which have been made through the Administration organ in this city, to the effect that I had thrown myself before the hungry mouths of the laboring men, and deprive them and their families of the means of support. I wish to be placed right on the record. I have no opposition to the honest laboring men of the country. They have my respect and sympathy. But, while I would take all care of them, and protect and provide for them, I would mark, with the strongest reprobation, those heartless cormorants, and their hireling advocates, who feed upon the necessities of these laboring men, and, in the same sordid spirit, would speculate upon the bones of their own fathers. Mr. Hale. If it is in order I desire to offer an amendment to the amendment of the Senator from Arkansas. The President. It is not in order. Mr. Borland. I ask for the yeas and nays on the amendment which I have just offered. The yeas and nays were ordered. Mr. Hale. I am not going to make a speech, but I simply wish to say that I shall vote against the amendment; and if it is not adopted, I will move to add it as an additional section, striking out the words at the end of it, “one month’s additional wages. ” The question was then taken, with the following result: Yeas— * * * 7; Nays— * * * 33. So the amendment was rejected. Mr. Borland. I have an amendment which I wish to offer, by way of a proviso, to come in at the end of the bill: Provided, Nothing herein contained shall be so construed as to authorize any officer, or agent of the United States, to bind the United States by contract, beyond the amount appropriated by Con- gress, or to sanction any such contract heretofore made. I deem that an important amendment; because, if the bill passes, I wish to have it properly guarded. I ask for the yeas and nays on that amendment. The yeas and nays were ordered. Mr. Cass. I am altogether in favor of the proposition if it is a proper one; but I consider it unnecessary. Mr. Seward. What right have they to do so, even without that provision? Mr. Cass. The only question is, whether they could do so. I am in favor of the principle of the amendment; but would not the adoption of such an amendment authorize a general impression that the Administration did go beyond its power? That is a thing which I do not believe. I can understand that, under an administra- tion a deficiency may occur which might create the necessity of an expenditure beyond the actual appropriations for a specific purpose. It might be necessary to go beyond appropriations to keep soldiers from starving; but I do not understand the necessity of any Administration going beyond the appropriation, in a case of this kind, when imperious necessity does not require it, and when Congress does not order it. I do not believe the Administration has done it; but still, if any one believes it, I am willing to make the declaration which is contained in this amend- ment. Mr. Hunter. In relation to the power of any Administration to make contracts, I believe it is defined in the law of 1820. They may make contracts for supplies for subsistence in the quartermaster’s department, and for certain supplies for the Navy. They may make contracts without appropriations, when specially authorized 536 Documentary History of the Capitol. by law, and not otherwise. But, by way of abundant caution, I am willing to vote for the amendment of the Senator from Arkansas. Mr. Hale. I wish to say a single word with regard to the practical working of this principle. I think it is within the knowledge of the Senator from Virginia, [Mr. Hunter,] that Congress once appropriated $250,000 for a dock, and when the work was stopped, for want of means to carry it on, the Administration asked and obtained the opinion of the Attorney-General, which was that they could not go on. The consequence was that the work was suspended for a whole year, because they could not go on without money. I think they have no such authority, and my objection to the amendment is, that if It is adopted the bill will have to go back to the House of Representatives, and it will be a month or two perhaps before the appropriation can be made. I am in favor of the principle, but as it is not necessary to declare it, I bope the amendment will not be adopted. Mr. Underwood. I am afraid that the gentleman’s amendment will defeat the object he has in view. I agree with him in principle that such things ought never to be done. I do not believe that they have any right to do it; and if this bill is so qualified by inserting this provision, how will the matter stand hereafter? It will be as much as to say, that unless you make this provision in every bill by which the Administra- tion is allowed to disburse a certain amount of money hereafter, that Administration, for the time being, may go on and make contracts and incur expenses ad libitum. I am not ready to say that; and it seems to me that this amendment would lead to the very thing to which the gentleman is opposed. I think that the Executive has no such authority now; and by the adoption of that amendment, you seem to me to say, and the legitimate inference will be, that they have such power. I do not believe it. Mr. Borland. I think I can answer the Senators from Michigan and from Ken- tucky without difficulty, and very briefly. The Senator from Michigan [Mr. Cass] says that he sees no necessity for such an amendment, because he can conceive of no such power in the officers of the Gov- ernment. I agree with him that- no such power does rightfully exist. But this amendment is to make that certain, beyond dispute — is to make a positive prohibi- tion of this power which is not possessed, but which this Administration seems to be constantly exercising. Why, sir, in the answer of the President to the call for information as to the contracts, we find that the contracts cover the whole work for five years, involving some millions of dollars. Here is the exercise of this very power. Allusion has been made to the deficiency bill. In that we have proof that not only have contracts been made, and debts contracted, beyond the amount appropri- ated, but in the very face of the positive and express refusal of Congress to make the appropriations. Why, before the preparation of the appropriation bill of last year, estimates were sent in from the Departments, for certain amounts for the public service; and after a long debate, and hard struggle, they were refused — that is, they were much reduced. The Administration was told, in the most solemn forms of legislation, that only so much money, and no more, should be expended in certain branches of the public service. Here was a positive rejection of its estimates. Yet, in despite of that, we find this same Administration setting Congress at defiance — treating its laws with contempt, and spending millions of the public money, not only without authority, but in defiance of an express, positive, and solemn prohibition of law. And, in this matter of the Capitol, we find again, with authority of law to expend but $100,000, obligations upon the Government have heen incurred to the amount of millions, and for years to come. Sir, it is because there is no such lawful power — and yet it is constantly exercised — that this very provision is necessary. It is to arrest and prevent this flagrant usurpation, and dangerous abuse of power. I know it is said that those contracts are not binding, because they are conditioned to be contingent upon the appropriations. Now, sir, we know very well what that The Extensions. 537 means. We know very well, and so does the President and the contractors, that if the materials be furnished, and the work be done, whether by authority of law or not, we will pay for them. Everybody understands that; and hence the readiness to enter into these contracts, and push on the work in advance of appropriations. This has grown to an abuse which it is necessary now to arrest and remedy. I cannot understand how the amendment to this bill can create the necessity to attach it to all other appropriation bills; but if it should, as suggested by the Senator from Kentucky, tend to “exclude the conclusion,” he apprehends then, it will be very easy to put it upon all. It is proper and necessary here, and ought to be adopted. Mr. Mangum. The Administration, as I was advised — and I have no doubt I was advised correctly — or the managers of this work, whichever you please, have at no time exceeded their lawful authority. They have made no contract in violation of the authority conferred upon them by the clause in the appropriation bill appro- priating $100,000 for the extension of the Capitol. Mr. Rusk. Will the Senator from North Carolina allow me Mr. Mangum. Yes, sir, in a moment. I was about to say, that every contract that has been entered into with the view of having materials at hand where the work should be done, has been made on the express condition that appropriations shall be made by Congress; and there is no obligation whatever, either upon the President or upon Congress in regard to these contracts, unless Congress shall choose to make the appropriations. One other remark. I was prepared to vote for the amendment of the honorable Senator from New Hampshire [Mr. Hale] when it should be offered, but I hope he will not propose it upon this bill. 1 shall vote for it as a matter of punishment to ourselves, for having been delinquent in doing our duty in the right time. I mean the amendment in regard to the payment of the laborers. I hope the Senator will not persist in his amendment, because if the bill is not passed as it came from the House, it will have to go back there, and will be much delayed, and the work will never be got under way. The season, the public interest, the advancement of the building, every consideration requires that we should proceed forthwith. I trust, therefore, that the amendment will not be offered to this bill, for the one especial reason I have just assigned. As to the amendment of the Senator from Arkansas, it involves a principle, the truth and propriety of which I have never heard anybody dispute. But we under- stand from gentlemen who are no doubt well informed upon this subject, that the law already furnishes sufficient security in reference to this matter; and why should we reenact here that which is already provided for? I do trust, therefore, that this amendment will not pass, for it will send the bill back to the House of Representa- tives, and delay action upon it. Mr. Gwin. I do not intend to oppose the passage of this joint resolution; but if the Senate intends to prohibit, or withdraw its sanction from, the contracts which have been made, it is absolutely necessary to adopt this proviso. I have some knowl- edge of the manner in which these contracts are made. Contracts have been made for the whole of the materials which are to be used in the building. To be sure, there is a proviso in all these contracts that they shall be of no effect to an amount beyond the actual appropriations; but whenever an appropriation is made, the con- tracts hold. I know that such is the constant practice in all cases of this description. I know this was the practice when some of our large custom-houses were built. A contract is made for the whole, and a proviso put in that the contract shall not be binding unless the appropriations are made; but if made, it stands. If we intend to prohibit contracts being made beyond the amount of the actual appropriations, this proviso is absolutely necessary; for if it is not put in, contracts may be made at once for the whole building and all the materials, with a proviso that they shall not be 538 . Documentary History of the Capitol. binding until the appropriations are made, but that when the appropriations are made, they shall be binding. Mr. Borland. I know that the provision of which the Senator speaks is in all the contracts which have been made for materials for the extension of the Capitol. In each of the contracts there is this provision: It is also expressly understood and agreed by the parties, that if Congress shall at any time fail to make the necessary appropriations for the execution of said work, then and in such case the execu- tion of this contract shall be suspended, without thereby creating any claim on the United States by the contractor. I know that is in all these contracts; but does not everybody know that if the work and labor is done, we will recognize it and not deprive the individuals, who have done the work and furnished the materials, of payment, although .the debt may have been improperly contracted? This clause would not exonerate us. It would in a court of law; but it would not exonerate us if the men should furnish the labor and the materials, and then come before us and ask for payment. In that case, would we refuse it? Who believes that Congress would refuse to pay for labor and materials thus furnished? Is there a member of the Senate or the House of Representatives who would vote against paying for them in such a case? No one could do it in conscience, or in common fairness. Therefore the clause in the -con- tracts which I have read, amounts to nothing at all. Mr. Gavin. The gentleman has mistaken my argument entirely. I say the provisio is necessary. Mr. Clemens. I shall vote against this amendment, and against all other amend- ments which may be offered to this resolution. As I understand it, the law now prohibits the President making contracts beyond the actual appropriations. Then if you put this clause in the resolution, you do not strengthen it. If he will disre- gard a law already in existence, what is to prevent him disregarding this? If you cannot punish him for disregarding that, how are you to punish him for disregarding this? How do you strengthen the law by adopting this provision? What good does it do? What is the effect of it but to send the resolution back to the House of Representatives? I shall vote against it. Mr. Rusk. I shall vote for this appropriation. I voted to reduce it, and thought we ought to have done so. I believed that we might, perhaps, have produced a little economy by that course. The greatest abuses that 1 have noticed in my short service here are the interminable claims that are created by these agents. You make an appropriation, they are bound by law not to go beyond it; but they still enter into these kinds of contracts, by which a claim is created against the Government. Gentlemen may say it is not a legal claim; that it is made conditional upon an appro- priation of Congress. If they make the appropriation, then it purports to be a bind- ing contract. It is true that they may make another contract. But here they have gone on and contracted for the whole of the materials for the building, which is cer- tainly a reckless extravagance in the matter. It is true, under the law, possibly this contract might be set aside, and a new one made if cheaper and better materials could be procured; but, then, have you not created here, in the very teeth of, and contrary to the law, and contrary to good policy, a sort of equitable claim that will fill your galleries with agents pressing on you to relieve such contractors by appro- priations of money as damages? It is the greatest abuse in this Government, and one that must be stopped, or it will ruin it. You made an appropriation some time ago for running the boundary line between the United States and Mexico. You sent a commissioner there; he exhausted that appropriation, and, if I am correctly informed — and I received my information from an intelligent gentleman — three- fourths of the money has been squandered upon objects not at all appropriate to the expedition; and here, in the deficiency bill, is an appropriation of §80,000, to cover that deficiency which has been expended in collecting lizards, bugs, and plants, and The Extensions. 539 one nonsense and another, which he was attending to, whilst the commissioner on the part of Mexico was absolutely cheating him out of a large portion of valuable territory, properly belonging to us, and of vast importance to the United States. We have that appropriation to make. You are informed by the quartermaster’s department that drafts are coming in, which can not be met, constantly. Well, sir, it is time to stop this kind of expenditure. When the appropriation of $100,000 was made, what gentleman, who voted for it, dreamed that a contract or contracts with favorites (or not, I do not care; it makes no difference, because I do not know anything about the contractors or about the agents employed; but still it is opening a door which may be used improperly) for several millions would be made depending simply upon the appropriations by Con- gress, which, I must say, have always heretofore followed too much as a matter of course? We are embarrassed in regard to this measure. First, I want this work to go on; it is proper and right that it should. Next, I want to relieve these laborers — these men who get but a very small pittance out of this; and in order to effect that object, to do justice to these few laborers,- 1 am bound here to sanction this mon- strous assumption of making contracts for several millions of dollars, to extend, perhaps, throughout ten years, for the materials to be used upon the building here. Mr. Hunter. I understand from the chairman of the Committee on Public Build- ings of the House of Representatives, who has given more time to the examination of this matter than I have, that the whole amount of the contracts made amount to about $419,000, which is less than the appropriation contemplated in this bill. But I rise to another question, and that is, as to the propriety of this amendment. I made a statement in relation to the law of 1820; the section is a short one, and I will read it to the Senate: “No contract shall hereafter be made by the Secretary of State, or of the Treasury, or of the Depart- ment of War, or of the Navy, except under a law authorizing the same, or under an appropriation adequate to its fulfillment, excepting always contracts for the subsistence and clothing of the Army or Navy, and contracts of the quartermaster’s department, which may be made by the Secretaries of those Departments.” The exceptions are for the quartermaster’s department, the subsistence and cloth- ing of the Army and Navy, and when Congress, by a law, authorizes a contract to be made, but makes no appropriation. The difficulty that may arise in relation to this law is, whether it is such a law as authorized this contract or not; therefore it was, that I said that out of abundant caution I was disposed to vote for the amendment of the Senator from Arkansas; and 1 shall do so, because it leaves no doubt on that question. If there can be any doubt, it must arise on the question whether this is such a law — if the joint resolution passes — as will authorize a contract, without appropriations. If the amendment is passed, it will leave no such doubt. They will have then no authority to make contracts, except as appropriations are made; and I think that would be the safer course; I am, therefore, willing to accede to the amend- ment, and shall vote for it. Mr. Borland. I, perhaps, owe an explanation to the Senator from Texas, as it was on my statement he based some of his remarks. I stated that the contracts amounted to some million dollars. That was my inference from the report which I have before me, which was made in answer to a call of the Senate. So far as I have been capable of understanding that report, or as anybody has explained it to me, the contracts cover the whole work. How much that will be, I do not know, and cannot know; and I do not believe we have any evidence that will enable any one to know; and that is one of the objections I have to the passage of the resolution — that it is a sort of entering wedge to the expenditure of money, the amount of which we cannot estimate. How much it will be, I do not know; but my inference, and the only inference I can draw from the report that has been sent in to us embrac- 540 Documentary History of the Capitol. ing all the contracts, is, that it covers the whole work. If it does not, then I atn incapable of understanding the report. The question being taken on the amendment, by yeas any nays, resulted— yeas 24, nays 17; as follows: * * * So the amendment was agreed to. Mr. Hale. If the Chair has in his possession the amendment which was offered by the Senator from Arkansas, I will now offer it as additional to the amendment of the House. Mr. Hunter. I hope the Senator will bring that question up in a separate measure, and not as an amendment to this resolution. Mr. Hale. I would not offer it but for the fact that we have already made one amendment, which will create the necessity of sending the resolution back to the House. Mr. Shields. I have drawn up an amendment which I think will suit the gentle- man’s purpose. It is to add — “That the laborers employed upon the Capitol shall be entitled to and receive pay for the time during which the work was suspended, according to the regular prices at which they were originally engaged.” Mr. Hale. I accept that. Mr. Hunter. For what time are they to receive pay? Mr. Hale. Up to the present time. Mr. Hunter. From when? Mr. Hale. From the time the work was suspended. Mr. Shields. I understand that these men were brought here by advertisements which were published inviting them to come, and a stipulated price was promised to them. They have been kept here while the work has been suspended, and have been unable to obtain employment. I propose to pay them for the time they have been kept here during the suspension of the work. Mr. Hunter. For the whole winter? Mr. Shields. I do not know, nor do I care, what may have been the length of time. That does not affect the question whether they ought to be paid. Mr. Hale. It certainly cannot be a new principle to pay men who have been “ waiting orders,” and I think that if there has ever been a set of men waiting orders, it is these workmen. I understand that a great many of them have been induced to come from a great distance by the advertisements of the officers of the Government. They came here expecting work. They have been here during the whole winter. They are out of money; they are out of credit; and they are out of heart. I trust that we shall pass this amendment, so that they will not be wanting, in all respect, for the candor and good faith of the Government. Mr. Seward. I want to hear the amendment read again, in order to see whether it describes who are the workmen to be paid, and whether it can be ascertained at all who have been waiting, and will be entitled to claim pay; or whether all the workmen in the city of Washington and in the city of New York are to be paid. The amendment was again read. Mr. Weller. I believe some of the workmen went home and are engaged in other work. Mr. Underwood. I want some gentleman who has examined the subject, to tell me, if he can, how this work was carried on? Was it done by contract? Did contractors engage to carry on the work and employ their own laborers? or was it done by officers of the Government, who were charged to carry on the work ? I want to know what was the nature of the contract under which these men were employed before I vote. If some gentleman can inform me, I would be glad to receive the information. The Extensions. 541 Mr. Seward. I wish to ask, also, whether, besides the laborers who have been out of employment who are to be paid, those who may have found employment else- where, are also to be paid by the Government? Mr. Borland. It seems to me that this question is very easily understood. If the officer whose duty it shall be to execute this provision of the law, be a man of com- mon sense — a man of common fairness and honesty — he will have no difficulty in carrying it out. It refers to the laborers — not to the superintendents, but to the laboring men who get their seventy-five cents or a dollar a day for their manual labor, in erecting this building. We all know what we mean by laborers. It seems to me that those Senators who are willing to make this large appropriation of $500,000 need not stop at all. They need not hesitate to pay the small additional sum which is proposed to be paid to the poor men who have been kept here, and have had to live, with their wives and children, on expectation, during a long and severe winter. Many of them, I know, are almost in a state of starvation. I see many of them daily who are fit objects of relief. I do not care what amount it costs. I would vote more to pay them than I would to build the Capitol. This appeals more strongly to my sense of justice, and my sense of public duty, and our common feelings of humanity. I think it is the highest obligation that can rest upon the Government to relieve the necessities of those men who have been brought here without authority, as I contend, and kept here without authority, but not by their fault, but by the fault of those whom they have intrusted with the power and with the money, to whom we gave credit before the country to operate upon the minds of these laboring men. We have incurred, therefore, an obligation which we cannot, in my opinion, now repudiate. I, therefore, will vote for this amendment, if it costs double the amount that it is proposed to appropriate for the continuation of the work on the Capitol. Mr. Underwood. I must try again to get some information. If the gentleman from Arkansas can answer my question, I would be very glad to hear from him. Mr. Borland. I did not introduce the amendment — it was the honorable Senator from Illinois. Mr. Underwood. I see nothing at either end of the Capitol but some stone work which has been done. Now, I want to know whether that stone work was let out upon advertisement to contractors, or whether it was done by an officer of the Gov- ernment, employing men to do it? I want to know what was the nature of the contract, if I can get at it. Mr. Seward. It was done by day labor. Mr. Underwood. If the gentleman from Arkansas can tell me the nature of the contracts, and how the work was done, I should be very glad to obtain the infor- mation. Mr. Borland. If the gentleman wishes to know what the agents, and architects, and superintendents appointed by this Administration, have done, and how they have done the work, he must go to other sources. I have no means of knowing it. The gentleman must ask his political friends, who are carrying on this work, and are now asking this large amount of money at our hands to continue it. If he paid any attention to the remarks which I originally made, he might recollect that I stated that this work was carried on at an expense five or ten times as great as it ought to have been. Whether it was done by contract or not I do not know; but I ' expect it was done by day labor, and that the superintendents, getting their five dollars a day to superintend, took especial pains to emplo’y as many laborers as they could, and to keep them doing as little as possible. I have stood myself, for an hour at a time, and looked on at the work; and I think that two good men could have done more labor than was done by ten at that time. Mr. Underwood. I have made various inquiries after information from the gentle- man from Arkansas, because I thought, from his connection with the subject, that 542 Documentary History of the Capitol. he would be enabled to give me the information. He tells me I must go elsewhere and hunt it up; therefore, I do not still know how these laborers were employed, or by whom they were employed. I do not know what contracts were made on enter- ing into employment; and, in the total ignorance under which I labor in regard to these points, the gentleman gets up and says that the laborers are entitled to claim against the Government so much damages, and that therefore we have nothing at all to do but to pay them. I, for one, cannot legislate upon any such grounds. I never give a vote, unless I know the propriety of giving it, and see that there is jus- tice in it. If these laborers have been employed during the suspension of this work, profitably for anybody else, and made double as much as they are to receive by their contracts, is it proposed that they are to pocket this too? Can anybody tell me any- thing about it? Are we to vote this blindfold, for sympathy? Why, if so, it is worse than any material aid granted to Kossuth, as great a humbug as I conceive him to be. Mr. Gwin. It is very evident that this work has all been done by day labor. These parties are not contracted with at all. I take it for granted that the architect advertised for laborers — that they came here, and that they were employed by the day. There is no contract about it; but I conceive this to be a very dan- gerous precedent. If you pay these laborers for the time the work has been sus- pended,- you will have to pay other laborers on every public work in the United States when it is suspended, and the laborers are thrown out of employment in con- sequence of the failure of the appropriations. Why, the chairman of the Commit- tee on Finance knows very well that applications are being made to us constantly to put appropriations in the deficiency bill for such objects, because it is said if we do not make appropriations now, the workmen will be thrown out of employment at some future period. There will be a precedent here established if we adopt this amendment, by which laborers can come in and receive compensation during the interval after one appropriation is exhausted until another is made. Such applica- tions will come up from every part of the Union, and there is no telling what amount of money it will cost the Government. Mr. Cooper. If the amendment is to pass, I think it ought to be amended. The President. It is not susceptible of amendment. It is an amendment to the amendment of the House. Mr. Shields. I would suggest, then, in order to obviate the difficulty, and to make it reasonable, to insert in my amendment, after the words “laborers that have been employed,” the words, “and who have been retained, but kept out of employment.” Mr. Cooper. That is the amendment which I w r as about to suggest. Mr. Hale. I am willing to have it in any way, so that we may get a vote. Mr. Shields. Let the language of the amendment be, “ laborers who have been employed and detained here waiting for employment.” Mr. Weller. I know a great many people of that sort. The President. The amendment can be so amended by unanimous consent. Mr. Hale. I want to say a word in answer to the Senator from California. I think he has taken a mistaken view of this question. Congress frequently suspend work from Thursday to Monday, or from Friday to Monday. I want to know whether those who are waiting h.ere, draw for Saturday and Sunday; because if they do, there is a precedent. Further, I have been informed that there are some members here, who sometimes suspend labor with a view to go home, and stay some two or three weeks. I have actually heard it intimated that I have done that very thing. [Laughter.] I want to know whether the Secretary, when he makes up the pay roll, deducts the per diem for that time. I have heard it said further, and I think it is a fact, that members of Congress who receive eight dollars a day, do, in addi- tion to that, vote themselves a vast amount of books, which cost something like $1,000. I think it has been done at this session for new members. And what do. The Extensions. 543 we do here besides? At the end of every session we vote an additional compensa- tion to laborers who have been here — not waiting pay — to our messengers, clerks, pages, and everybody else. We give them a donation of some $250 or $500, and nobody’s constitutional stomach is disturbed; but when we come to the mere labor- ing man, who gets but little, and that little is exhausted, constitutional objections rise up, like Roderick Dhu’s men, from every bush, and coppice, and hill, so thick that it is almost impossible for a man to make his way through; and people are won- derfully in want of information. I wonder why gentlemen do not want information when some other case comes up than that of the day laborer. Look at the Navy Register of men, “waiting orders,” and see men getting $2,500 and $5,000 a year, who have been “waiting orders” almost ever since they came out of their cradles. There are no constitutional scruples in regard to that; there is no bad precedent there; but is a wonderful bad precedent to propose to pay the day laborer while he has been “waiting orders.” Mr. President, let us have the vote. I am sorry that I have had to make this speech. I will admit any modification of the amendment, with the sense of the Senate; but just let us have a fair vote, and do something like justice to men who came here, who left their homes, and who have been living on what little they earned, and then living on that “hope deferred” which “maketh the heart sick” and the body faint. I trust we will do justice to them. The President. Does the Senator propose to modify his amendment? Mr. Hale. Yes, sir; any way Mr. Cooper says. [Laughter.] By unanimous consent, the amendment was modified by adding the following: “ Provided , That they shall not be entitled to such pay unless they remained unemployed at the seat of Government, awaiting the appropriation.” Mr. Rusk. We can very frequently express great sympathy for the suffering of individuals, and in our conduct, so far from carrying out these sympathies, by a particular process defeat the very end which we seem to have in view. I regard it, that this amendment will have precisely that effect. Here are a number of laborers that have been thrown out of employment. That fact is known. The contracts under which they came here are not known. We are not in a condition, from want of information, to do them justice at all. Suppose that we adopt this amendment, and it gods to the House, does anybody suppose that it will not be discussed there, and that it will not delay the passage of the joint resolution? Now, sir, whether or not is it better for these men, who are idle and wanting work, and who cannot go on from the want of this appropriation, which has been delayed week after week — many of whom are without credit in this city; brought here by the Government, and have been suspended in their Avork — would it not be better for them if this resolution passed, without this embarrassment, which will create discussion, and delay the passage of the resolution? There will be a discussion on it, beyond all doubt, in the House of Representatives. The passage of the bill will, perhaps, be delayed two or three Aveeks longer by it. Should we keep> them in that state of starvation, under the delusive hope that they are to get some extra pay? If this is a claim, (and I apprehend it is a good claim against the Government of the United States — they have been brought here by the Government, and have been thrown out of employment by it, ) it can be put in another bill, and not embarrass this. Mr. LIale. I want to say that I have no purpose of embarrassing this resolution by offering this amendment. I gave early information that I would offer it but upon the suggestion of some of the friends of the resolution that it would embarrass it in the other House; I refrained, and did not offer it; and it was not until after another amendment was agreed to by the \ r ote of my friend from Texas, who has read me so kind a lecture, which created the necessity of the bill going back to the House, that I offered this amendment. Now, sir, if some gentleman who voted for that amend- ment will move to reconsider it, I will be willing to withdraw this, and put it forward 544 Documentary History of the Capitol. in a separate measure. If any suggestion is made to the effect that the amendment will be reconsidered, I will withdraw this. Mr. Rusk. 1 cannot, for my life, see that the amendment which has been adopted in relation to preventing gentlemen making contracts upon suppositions of appropri- ations hereafter to he made, can meet the slightest objection in the House. I under- stand the only objection which was made here to it was, that it created the necessity of sending it back to the House; but I am utterly mistaken if the amendment which is now under consideration would n< create discussion there. I understand from members of the House who ought to know all about it, that the amendment which we have adopted will not create any discussion there, and that it is likely this one will. Mr. Dodge, of Iowa. I demur to arguing about the amendment which has been adopted. I think it is decidedly a salutary one, and I wish to hold on to it. More than that; I wish to defend the people’s Representatives from the imputation which my friend from Texas makes upon them. If the Senate, with its aristocratic feature, its six years, and everything else, does an act of justice to the working men, I take it that the more immediate Representatives of the people of this country will not dare to withhold their consent. I have no fears of that sort. This amendment will pass there much more easily than it will pass this body. I hope we shall adopt it. “The laborer is worthy of his hire.” Mr. Seward. I think that the honorable Senator from Arkansas, who, I believe, favors this amendment, and who complained of the interested influence which is brought to bear upon Congress by the gathering of these laborers, would find that a stronger influence would be created against the passage of this resolution, if this amendment should be agreed to. It would have as great a tendency to make a delay in its passage as any that was ever found to delay a bill before Congress; for these laborers, with all their friends, would have the authority of the Senate for the posi- tion that they ought to be paid until the bill passes, if it should be in August or September, just as much as if they worked all the time. Mr. Shields. I merely wish to make a short reply to the honorable Senator from Texas, who seemed to intimate that this amendment was intended, perhaps, to defeat the measure. Certainly I have no such intention as that. On the contrary, I look upon this as the most equitable provision in the whole resolution, and cer- tainly I think it ought to meet with the strongest support in the House of Repre- sentatives; and I will state why in a few minutes. As I understand it, these men were brought here by public advertisement. They were promised uninterrupted employment. They came here. When the appropriation was exhausted they expected to he employed, and they were kept here from day to day, as I understand it, by the agents of the Government who had the control of this work. That is my understanding; that these agents expected that an appropriation would be made immediately for this purpose; they did not want to break up the arrangements they had made, and they kept these laborers here from day to day. It it not the fault of the agents, nor of these men, but it is the delay of Congress. Now, the only ques- tion in a case of this kind is, whether it is just and equitable to allow these men daily wages for the time they were thus detained by officers of the Government for the purpose of being employed upon this work? It is said this amendment will defeat the resolution, as it will have to go to the other House. I should not have offered or insisted upon this amendment if a pre- vious amendment had not been made. But it goes to the House now, and if they refuse to pass this amendment and it comes back to us, and gentlemen are anxious to pass the resolution, we can recede from it. But let it all go together if it is just. If this is not just, vote against it at once. If these men are not entitled to pay for the time they have been kept here by the agents of the Government, waiting, as I have already said, and expecting that every day an appropriation would be made, The Extensions . 545 then reject it; but if it is just that they should be paid, then let all go to the House together, and let us see how the House will act upon it. My impression is, that this will be the strongest provision in the resolution when it goes back to the House. Mr. Rusk. In the few remarks which I had the honor to submit to the Senate, I cast no imputations upon the motives of any one. I am not in the habit of casting imputations upon any one’s motives. I attempted to address myself to the effect of the provision. Nor did I make any charges against the representatives of the people of the United States. Mr. Dodge, of Iowa. If my friend understood me as making any assertion of that sort, he misunderstood me very much. I desired simply to say that I had not the least doubt that any amendment of this sort which we might adopt would be readily adopted by the other House. I made no sort of implication against the Senator’s intentions. Mr. Rusk. I am glad to receive the information, though I would not consider it a very high compliment to pay to the House of Representatives to say that they will do nothing but register the Senate’s decrees. I have not the least objection to pay- ing these laborers what is equitable and right. I will vote to pay them whenever a proposition is presented of a proper character. I will be one of the first to vote what I conceive to be equitable. Beyond that I will not go. I will go that far whether there is one laborer or a thousand to be affected by it. This amendment as it has been modified, is in these words: “ That the laborers employed upon the Capitol shall be entitled to and receive pay during the time for which the work was suspended, according to the regular .prices at which they were originally engaged: Provided , That they shall not be entitled to such pay unless they remained unemployed at the seat of Government, and waiting the appropriation.” Now, what sort of an amendment is that? Mr. Brodhead. It is all right. Mr. Rusk. Some gentleman says it is all right. Let us see whether it is or not. Suppose the case of a man with a family, who was engaged on this work at two dol- lars a day, but who has been out of employment: That man, if he properly regarded his family, would go and work at a quarter of a dollar a day if he could not get more, in order to endeavor to support his family; and yet the fact that he did get employ- ment at a quarter of a dollar or half a dollar a day, would exclude him from the benefits of your justice. It is only the idle man who will not employ himself, but who goes to grog shops and walks about the streets, who is to get the benefit of this justice. Will not the House of Representatives be likely to discuss a proposition of that sort? The objection that I have to it is, in the first place, that it embarrasses this resolution, and in the next place that it is not digested in such a form that I can vote for it. If there is any distinction to be made, I would prefer to pay the man who showed his industry by working for small wages when he could not get larger, rather than reward one who would not work at all. Mr. Cass. It seems to me that this is a peculiar case, and it demands peculiar action. There is a great number of laborers who have been invited here to aid in a great public work for which an appropriation was made. They have been collected in this Dis- trict, where there is very little demand for labor, and being thrown out of employ- ment, they become necessarily destitute of the means of support. This is not like a large city, such as Philadelphia or New York, where labor is constantly in demand; but being thrown out of employment here, they have no means of livelihood. We have been in session for over four months. The appropriation made for this object has long since been exhausted. We have suffered time to pass on without making another appropriation, and I feel myself responsible for it to some extent. Some two months since, or more, some of these very men came to me, and I told them that I expected we would make an appropriation immediately. I encouraged them to H. Rep. 646 35 546 Documentary History of the Capitol. remain, inasmuch as an appropriation would certainly be made in a few days. But I have been deceived; the measure has been delayed until the session is half over, without any good reason under heaven why we have not made the appropria- tion. Under these circumstances I am willing to pay a just and reasonable com- pensation to these men. I think an honest, and just, and reasonable man would do it in his own case. If he had collected together a large number of laborers, and they had been thrown out of employment in consequence of pure neglect on his part, I think he would do so. I think the amendment is sufficiently guarded. At first I thought it provided for all the laborers, but it only provides for those who have been unemployed, and who have been thrown out of employment by the action of the Government, and had no means of subsistence. I am willing to go that far; but certainly men who have been employed elsewhere in the mean time, ought not to be paid by the Government. Mr. Shields. I merely wish to state that, in 1839, there was a precisely similar provision made for the laborers on the Treasury Building. It is in these words: "Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assem- bled, That the commissioners appointed by the President of the United States to superintend the pros- ecution of the work on the construction of the new Treasury Building, be and they are hereby authorized to examine the claims of the workmen to indemnity for the loss of their time during the suspension of the work upon said building by order of the President of the United States, pending the question before Congress on the bill reported by the Committee on Public Buildings, providing for the removal of the walls of the Treasury Building, and the erection of a fire-proof building for the Post Office Department, and that said commissioners allow to such of said workmen respectively as were suspended from labor during the pending of said appropriation bill, with the encouragement and under an authorized assurance that, upon the decision thereof, their labor would again be required by the Government, and who intermediately had no opportunity of obtaining employment in the city of Washington, such reasonable indemnity for the loss of wages for labor during the sus- pension of the work, as, under the circumstances of their respective cases, justice and equity may require; not exceeding, however, in any case, the average rate of the earnings of said workmen in the employment of the Government for a like preceding period of time.” Mr. Rusk. If the Senator will put the amendment in that form, I shall vote for it. Mr. Shields. I wish to offer it in that shape. Mr. Rusk. It is not in that form now. The President. With the consent of the Senate, the amendment before offered' can be withdrawn, and this substituted in its place. There being no objection, the amendment was so modified. Mr. Underwood. There is a precedent which, like the gentleman from Texas, I am willing to follow. I am not willing that these laborers should suffer from any violation of a contract on the part of the Government, or on the part of the agents of the Government, that has been legitimately entered into with them. Not at all. They are entitled to their damages for a violation of that contract, as much so as if it were made with me; and I am for paying them under such circumstances. But I have objected from the beginning that, under what I think a sympathy misplaced upon the occasion, Senators get up here and offer an amendment not at all matured in any of its bearings, and we are called upon to adopt it without knowing what we are voting for. Now, if you will not embarrass this resolution, introduce a propo- sition according to the precedent, or even appoint a committee of Congress, if you choose to investigate it in that way; or name any set of individuals of respectable standing in the city, to make the investigation, and I will pay these laborers every cent to which they are entitled most cheerfully. But I think it is ill-timed and ill- placed to attempt to embarrass this resolution in this way, in this hasty manner, and it ought not to be done. Mr. Gwin. The, law of 1839, which has been read, was a separate law, providing for the payment of laborers who had been employed on the Treasury Building. Why incumber this resolution with such a proposition? 1 am opposed to putting it into it; I think it will jeopardize the resolution. The Extensions. 547 Mr. Shields. I ask the yeas and nays on 1113' amendment. The yeas and nays were ordered. The President. The amendment will have to undergo great modification. The resolution in the book which has been read, and which has been offered, relates to another matter, and is not applicable to this. Mr. Shields. It will only be necessary to change a very few words. Mr. Hunter. I would like to suggest to the gentlemen who are pressing this amend- ment, that this is probably a new principle which they are introducing. The work was stopped in the winter, and those workmen who have been employed at day labor remained in the city under the hope of being again employed in the spring. We did not make an appropriation so soon in the spring as I think we ought to have done, and I desired we should do; but the question arises whether we ought to pay them for the whole of the time they have been waiting and took the chances like every- body else? If we adopt this principle, will it not apply to every other public work which is suspended? Will we not then have to pay the workmen who may say they have been waiting until an appropriation shall have been made? This is a very im- portant principle which we are establishing. I hope it will not be ingrafted in this resolution. I trust gentlemen will not embarrass this measure by forcing us to vote on this amendment. If they want to have this carried through, let them bring it forward in a separate measure, where the merits of the claim can be examined and separately passed upon, and let this bill go as it now stands. I hope gentlemen will not press the amendment, but will withdraw it, and allow us to pass the original measure. Mr. Borland. There seems to be great objection to adopting the amendment to pay these day laborers for work which they have not actually done. Now, look at the architect — look at the superintendent, getting their $2,000 or $3,000 a year,, whether they are employed or not. You do not propose to stop their pay because they have not been employed. You do not propose to stop the $3,000 or $5,000 per annum which the architect gets, or the $2,000 which one superintendent gets, or the $1,000 which another superintendent gets. Gentlemen do not look at that. They do not propose to cut off their pay because they have no employment, and have been lounging about as idly as the day laborers. I cannot understand how it is that gentlemen find such difficulties in the way of paying a dollar a day to the laborers who have, without any fault of their own, been kept here waiting, feeding on expec- tation, from day to day. I admit that it is very unsubstantial food, and not enough to support them and their wives and children. The superintendents of this work get their pay per annum. We are giving them from $2,000 to $3,000 a year, whether they work or not, and there is no difficulty in the way of that. While I am up, I would answer the inquiry made by the honorable Senator from Kentucky a while ago, with regard to the amount of information I have on the sub- ject of these contracts. He asks me where the contracts are? Here they are. Upon the resolution introduced by me, the President has sent in what purports to be copies of all the contracts which have been entered into. I have looked through them, and I see not one word on the subject of laborers; and I take it for granted, there- fore, that they are employed by the day. There are contracts covering every sort of work — stone, sand, lime — everything but labor. There is no contract in regard to labor. 1 take it for granted, therefore, that the officer of the Government employed the laborers by the day. Mr. Badger. My friend from Illinois having moved this amendment suddenly, without making the verbal alterations necessary to make it applicable to the present case, I ask the unanimous consent of the Senate that it may be modified by striking out the inapplicable words, and inserting words applicable to the present case; so as to make it read, instead of “ the commissioners appointed,” &c., “ that the architect appointed by the President of the United States to superintend the prosecution of 548 Documentary History of the Capitol. the additions to the Capitol, be authorized,” &c. ; and then, instead of “during the suspension of the work upon said building by order of the President of the United States,” insert “ during the suspension of the work upon said building for want, of an appropriation;” and put in the word “architect,” in place of “commissioners,” where it again occurs; so that the amendment shall read: "That the architect appointed by the President of the United States to superintend the prosecution of the work in the construction of the additions to the Capitol, be, and he is hereby, authorized to examine the claims of the workmen to indemnity for the loss of their time during- the suspension of the work upon said building for want of an appropriation; and that the said architect allow to such of said workmen respectively as were suspended from labor during the pendency of said appropriation bill, with the encouragement and under the authorized assurance, that upon the decision thereof their labor would again be required by the Government, and who intermediately had no opportu- nity of obtaining employment in the city of Washington, such reasonable indemnity for the loss of their wages for labor during the suspension of the work, as under the circumstances of their respec- tive cases justice and equity may require; not exceeding, however, in any case, the average rate of the earnings of said workmen in the employment of the Government for a like preceding period of time." There being no objection, the amendment was so modified. Mr. Badger. I think another verbal alteration is required in the amendment — to substitute for the words “ during the suspension of the work,” the words “from the suspension of the work to the making of the appropriation.” Mr. Underwood. I think that is exactly right; but I put it to the friends of the workmen, whether it would not be better to pass this amendment as a separate and independent measure, rather than, by sending it to the House of Representatives, delay the passage of the original resolution? Mr. Gwin. I am willing to vote for this amendment as a separate measure; but I am not willing to put it in this resolution to embarrass it. Mr. Dodge, of Iowa. As one of the friends of the workingmen, I say let this be a part of this resolution. It is legitimate to the subject. This is a resolution to con- tinue the work upon the two wings of the Capitol. These workmen have been engaged upon that, and therefore this amendment is appropriate to the resolution. Mr. Rusk. I regard that as a very important compromise, which was made with the laborers upon the Treasury Building in 1839; and, as the order of the day is the finaltv of compromises, I shall vote for the amendment. Mr. Adams. I merely want to inquire how often a Senator has the right to speak upon the same day upon the same subject? The President. Only twice, if it is objected to. Mr. Badger. I wish to suggest another verbal amendment in this amendment, which, it appears to me, may be necessary. There is in it a clause providing for the payment of these laborers “during the pendency of said appropriation bill, upon the encouragement and under an authorized assurance that, on the decision thereof, their labor would again be required,” &c. I think perhaps it would be better to strike out the words, “ under an authorized assurance.” The President. It requires unanimous consent to make that change. Mr. Gwin and others objected. Mr. Badger. Then it will do well enough as it is. Mr. Dodge, of Iowa. I must express my extreme regret that my friend from Cali- fornia will not allow the Senator from North Carolina, who has come to the side of the workingmen on this occasion, to modify the amendment in the mode he has proposed. The President. The objection did not come alone from the Senator from California; other Senators objected. The question being taken, by yeas and nays, on the amendment offered by Mr. Shields to the amendment of the House of Representatives, resulted— yeas 29, nays 15; * * * So the amendment was agreed to. The Extensions. 549 Mr. Adams. We have already adopted a proviso prohibiting officers of the Gov- ernment from making contracts beyond the actual appropriations. I think it would be proper to add some penalty for a violation of that provision, and therefore I move to amend, by inserting after the proviso that we have adopted, the following: “And that if any person or persons shall violate the provisions of this proviso, he or they shall be liable to indictment in any court having jurisdiction of criminal offenses, and on conviction, shall be removed from office, and confined in the penitentiary for a term not exceeding five years." Mr. Hamlin. I desire to learn from my friend, whether that would not subject the Senate, who have already voted for the amendment just adopted, to indictment. It strikes me that it might. We adopt a provision that the Departments or the President shall not make a contract beyond the amount of appropriation. Now, we have just voted large sums to a certain class, who have labored — who have remained here without any appropriations — and hence we have supposed that a debt has been incurred by these officers, which the very provision we have adopted to-day pro- vides they shall not have the power to create. Most clearly, therefore, I think Senators themselves may thus be subjected to indictment under this provision. Mr. Adams. I will answer the Senator. The gentleman did not notice the pro- viso offered by the Senator from Arkansas, and which has been adopted by the Senate, or he would have perceived that there was no penalty affixed to its violation. If I understand the proviso, it prohibits only persons making contracts in behalf of the Government, to an amount not exceeding the appropriations actually made. But the proviso affixed no penalty to its violation. The amendment which I offer proposes to fix a penalty, not to past, but to future offenses. Congress cannot violate the law. How does the Senator say that they can? Congress is the law-making power. If it modifies the law, its modification becomes the law. Congress cannot violate the law. It is the authority— the legislative body — to make the laws. What use is there in adopting a provision that contracts shall not be made beyond the amount of the appropriations, if you do not affix a penalty to a violation of the provision? As has been suggested, a law was passed before prohibiting any such thing; but there was no penalty affixed to it; hence we see that it has been done, not- withstanding the law. Now, my amendment is only to affix a penalty to a violation of the law. Mr. Borland. I should like to have the yeas and nays on that amendment. The yeas and nays were ordered, and, being taken, resulted — yeas 12, nays 28. * * * So the amendment was not agreed to. The President. The question now is on concurring with the amendment of the House of Representatives as amended. Mr. Hale. Is the resolution now in committee or in the Senate? The President. Neither. The question before the Senate simply is on adopting the amendment of the House of Representatives as it has been amended. The Senate passed the resolution originally. It was sent to the House, there amended, and returned to the Senate with an amendment. The question now is on concurring with the amendment as amended. Mr. Hale. I had supposed that we were considering the resolution as in Committee of the Whole, and that it was now in the Senate. The President. The question is simply on the amendment of the House of Repre- sentatives as amended; and that does not go through the stages of a bill. Mr. Hale. Is it in order to move to amend the amendment as amended? The President. It is in order to add to it. Mr. Hale. Is it in order to move to strike out? The President. It is in order to move to strike out any portion which has not been inserted by the Senate. 550 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Hale. I want to put one 'other question to the President. Is it in order to move to concur in the amendment as amended, with an exception? The President. No, sir. Mr. Badger. I suppose the question comes up on these various amendments which have been agreed to, whether the Senate will concur in them? The President. That is the question. Mr. Badger. Upon that point I wish to say a word. I wish to suggest to gentle- men who are in favor of the appropriation, that we should not concur in the amendments which have been made; but that we should permit the resolution to pass without incumbering it. The President. The Senator will not get at his object by not concurring; for if the amendments are not concurred in, the amendment of the House of Representatives will be rejected. Mr. Hale. The Senator can move to reconsider. Mr. Badger. I did not vote in favor of it, therefore I cannot make the motion. But I will let it go. Mr. Borland. I wish to know if the vote we are about to take now is on adopting the amendment as it comes to us from the House? — whether it is the final vote? The President. It is the final vote; but it is on the amendment of the House of Representatives as it has been amended. The amendment of the House of Representatives as amended was concurred in. [“No. 7. — A Resolution to authorize the Continuance of the Work upon the two Wings of the Capitol,’" approved Apr. 14, 1S52. (Stats, at Large, v. 10. 146.)] Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That there be and hereby is appropriated, out of any money in the treasury not otherwise appropriated, for the period between the passage of this resolution and the end of the fiscal year terminating June thirtieth, eighteen hun- dred and fifty-three, the sum of five hundred thousand dollars, for the continuance of the work on the two wings of the Capitol: Provided, Nothing herein contained shall lie so construed as to authorize any officer or agent of the United States to bind the United States by contract beyond the amount appropriated by Congress, or to sanction any such contract heretofore made. [Senate proceedings of Aug. 6, 1852. Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, p. 2100.] ABUSES IN THE PROSECUTION OF CLAIMS. Mr. Houston. I offer the following resolution, and ask the unanimous consent of the Senate to have it considered at this time: Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed by the President of the Senate to inquire into abuses, bribery, or fraud, in the prosecution of claims before Congress, commissions, or the Depart- ments, or in passing through Congress bills embracing private, individual, or corporate interests, or in obtaining or granting contracts; and that said committee have power to send for persons and papers, and examine witnesses under oath. * * * The resolution as modified was adopted. * * * The President. Messrs. Houston, Borland, Underwood, Meriwether, and Brooke, will be considered as the members of the committee, if such is the pleasure of the Senate. [“Agreed!” “Agreed!”] The Extensions. 551 No objection was made, and the committee was so constituted. [The report of this committee’s investigation, covering 216 printed pages, in which the construction of the Capitol Extension figures largely, was made by Senator Bor- land, Mar. 22, 1853, at the special session of the Senate. (See Senate Rep. Com. No. 1, special session 33d Congress: Senate Documents special session, 1853.)] Annual report of Thomas M. Walter, Architect of Public Buildings, Dec. 1, 1852. (32 — 2, House Ex. Doc. Xo. 1, pt. 1, p. 581.)] REPORT OF THE ARCHITECT OF PUBLIC BUILDINGS. Architect’s Office, United States Capitol, Washington, 1). C., December 1, 1852. Sir: In conformity to a resolution of the Senate of the United States, passed August 26, 1852, I have the honor to lay before you the following “abstract or com- pendium” of my annual report, which is herewith submitted: Extension of the Capitol. The appropriation for continuing the work not having been made until the 14th of April last, the buildings are not as far advanced as I anticipated at the date of my last annual report. The contracts all being limited to existing appropriations, the contractors were not at liberty to make preparations for supplying materials until after the passage of the bill. As soon as the appropriation was made, the contractors promptly commenced operations, and the work has since been prosecuted as rapidly as a proper regard for its permanency, durability, and beauty would warrant. The cellars of both wings are completed, the arches to support the basement doors are finished, and the outside marble work is progressing rapidly. All the foundations are permanently laid on the natural, undisturbed earth; some of them are 40 feet deep, and none less than 15 feet below the ground line of the building. The character of the earth under all the walls is the same throughout, being a stratum of compact gravel of several feet in thickness. The walls are all built with great care, and the entire sub-structure is massive and solid. The stones of which these foundations are constructed were tested, at the request of a special committee of the House of Representatives, by the late Professor Walter R. Johnson, whose report is hereto appended. The marble for the exterior has been delivered as rapidly as we have required it; twenty cargoes have arrived since the 5th of July last, containing, in the aggregate, 35,236 cubic feet, being an average of 1,487 cubic feet per week. Before this marble was adopted, it was tested by a commission appointed for the purpose, and their report is hereto annexed. In conformity to the proviso contained in the first section of the act of Congress approved August 31, 1852, I appointed Mr. John C. Ilarkness as measurer of all the work and materials of the extension of the Capitol, and Mr. Cornelius Jacobs receiver of materials for the north wing, and Mr. William J. Smith on the south wing; all of whom were duly sworn into office. All the work done, and materials furnished by contract, have since been measured by Mr. Ilarkness, and no further payments were made until' the measurement was reported to this office, in conformity to the aforesaid act of Congress. 552 Documentary History of the Capitol. The whole amount appropriated, thus far, for the extension of the Cap- itol is $600, 000 00 And the total amount expended to this date (December 1, 1852) is 495, 799 97 Leaving an unexpended balance of 104, 200 03 There will be required to carry on the work during the present fiscal year, ending June 30, 1853, the additional sum of $400, 000 00 And during the ensuing fiscal year, ending June 30, 1854 600, 000 00 Making 1,000,000 00 * * Hon. Alex. H. H. Stuart, Secretary of the Interior. ■5S- Thomas U. Walter, Architect of Public Buildings. Architect’s Office, United States CApitol, Washington, I). C., December 1, 1852. Sir: 1 have the honor to lay before you the following report of the state of the public works under my charge, and their progress during the past year: Extension of the Capitol. The contractors for furnishing materials were not at liberty, during the pendency of the bill, to make any arrangements for prosecuting the work, as the contracts all contain an express stipulation that “in case Congress should, at any time, fail to make the appropriations necessary to carry on the work, the said contracts shall be suspended, without thereby creating any claim on the United States.” No preparations were, therefore, made for quarrying building-stone for the founda- tions, granite for the sub-basement, or marble for the superstructure, until after the passage of the bill, so that we can scarcely be said to have been in full operation until the middle of the season. Immediately after Congress had made the appropriation, the contractors promptly commenced the execution of their several contracts, and the most energetic means were used throughout the remainder of the season to accelerate the work as rapidly as was consistent with a proper execution of its several pjarts, and a due regard for its permanency, durability, and beauty. The cellar walls of both wings are completed, the arches to support the floors of the basement story are finished, and the outside marble work is progressing rapidly and satisfactorily; the setting of the marble has been commenced, and the walls are raised, in some places, to the height of twelve feet above the granite sub-basement. Provision is made throughout the entire sub-structure for the system of warming the buildings, described in my last annual report, and all the necessary flues are com- menced in accordance therewith. All the foundations have permanent footings on the natural, undisturbed earth; many of them are laid at the depth of forty feet, and none of them less than fifteen feet below the ground line of the buildings. This inequality of depth was rendered neces- sary by the slope of the original hill on which the Capitol is built. In descending from the eastern front, where the foundations are deepest, the declivity was made in steps, so as to preserve, in every part, a horizontal bearing. The character of the earth under all the walls is the same throughout the work, being a stratum of hard and compact gravel of several feet in thickness. The Extensions. 553 In all cases the footings are at least two feet broader than the walls they support, and in order to insure the permanency of the western fronts of both buildings, where the foundations were of such extraordinary depths, the front walls and the portico walls were united at the base, thus making a solid foundation of twenty feet in width, which was carried up eight feet from the footings before the walls were set off to their required thickness. In digging for the western foundations of the south wing, we found at a depth of thirty feet below the level of the ground on the eastern front, architectural fragments, charred timber, and other debris, from the burning of the Capitol in the year 1814, which indicates the great amount of filling up that has been done since that time. After passing through these masses of rubbish, the natural earth was reached at the depth of thirty-eight feet below the ground line, and at two feet below this undis- turbed surface the walls were founded, as before stated. The stones of which these foundations have been constructed were tested, at the request of a special committee of the House of Representatives, by the late Professor Walter R. Johnson, whose report is hereto appended. The contractors for furnishing the marble commenced operations at their quarries in Lee, Massachusetts, immediately after the passage of the appropriation bill, and their first cargo arrived on the 5th of July last, since which time they have delivered twenty cargoes, containing in the aggregate 35,236 cubic feet, making an average of 1,487 cubic feet per week, which is quite as fast as we now require it. Before this marble was adopted for the extension of the Capitol, it was deemed proper to test the several specimens offered for the work, for the purpose of obtain- ing reliable data on which to make the selection. A commission was accordingly appointed to make the necessary experiments, and on their report, together with the sanction of the Committees on Public Buildings and Grounds of both Houses of Con- gress, the marble we are now using was adopted. The report of the commission is hereto annexed. In conformity to the proviso contained in the first section of the act of Congress approved August 31, 1852, I appointed Mr. John C. Harkness as measurer of all the work and materials of the extension of the Capitol, and Mr. Cornelius Jacobs as receiver of materials on the north wing and Mr. William J. Smith on the south wing, all of whom were duly sworn into office. Mr. Harkness has since measured all the work done and materials furnished by contract from the commencement of the work, and reported the same to this office, in conformity to the aforesaid act of Congress, and no further payments were made until the said measurement was received, and the accounts presented in accordance therewith. By an act of Congress approved September 30, 1850, there was appro- priated for the extension of the Capitol the sum of $100, 000 00 And by an act approved April 14, 1852, the further sum of 500, 000 00 Making the whole amount appropriated for this work to the present date 600, 000 00 The amount expended at the date of my last annual report, (December 23, 1851,) was 88,082 86 Since which time have been expended, to the present date, (December 1, 1852,) $407, 717 11 Making 495, 799 97 Which leaves an unexpended balance of 104, 200 03 600, 000 00 554 Documentary History of the Capitol. A detailed account of the expenditures up to the 31st of the present month inclu- sive, will be transmitted to you on the 1st of January ensuing. There will be required to carry on the work during the present fiscal year, ending June 30, 1853, the additional sum of $400, 000 00 And during the ensuing fiscal year, ending June 30, 1854 600, 000 00 Making 1,000,000 00 * * * Report of the Commission appointed by the Department of the Interior “to test the several specimens of marble offered for the extension of the United States Capitol.” November 3, 1851. Washington, D. C., December 22, 1851. Sir: The commission to which has been referred the examination of the marbles offered for the extension of the Capitol, have been informed that you are desirous of obtaining, as soon as possible, such information as will enable the government to determine which of the several marbles to adopt. Though the questions proposed to the commission appear to lie simple and easy of solution, yet they have been attended with many difficulties; and, notwithstanding the commission have pressed on the experiments as rapidly as the nature of the investigations would permit, and have devoted more time to the subject than they could well spare from their official duties, they are not yet able to present as many definite results as they could desire. In view, however, of the pressing demands for information, they have concluded to make the following report of progress, which will be sufficient for the immediate action of the government; and they would respectfully ask for permission to continue their investigations, and to embrace in them a greater variety of the building materials of this country. Though the art of building has been practised from the earliest times, and constant demands have been made, in every age, for the means of determining the best materials, yet the process of ascertaining the strength and durability of stone appears to have received but little definite scientific attention, and the commission, who have never before made this subject a special object of study, have been surprised with unforeseen difficulties at every step of their progress, and have come to the conclusion that the processes usually employed for solving these questions are still in a very unsatisfactory state. It should be recollected that the stone in the building is to be exposed for centuries, and that the conclusions desired are to be drawn from results produced in the course of a few weeks. Besides this, in the present state of science, we do not know all the actions to which the materials are subjected in nature, nor can we fully estimate the amount of those which are known. The solvent power of water, which even attacks glass, must in time produce an appreciable effect on the most solid material, particularly where it contains, as the water of the atmosphere always does, carbonic acid in solution. The attrition of siliceous dusts, when blown against a building, or washed down its sides by rain, is evidently operative in wearing away the surface, though the evanescent portion removed at each time may not be indicated by the nicest balance. An examination of the basin which formerly received the water from the fountain at the western entrance of the capitol, now deposited in the Patent Office, will convince any one of the great amount of action produced principally by water charged with carbonic acid. Again, every flash of lightning not only generates nitric acid — which, in solution in the rain, acts on the marble — but also by its inductive effects at a distance The Extensions. 555 produces chemical changes along the moist wall, which are at the present time beyond our means of estimating. Also, the constant variations of temperature from day to day, and even from hour to hour, give rise to molecular motions which must affect the durability of the material of a building. Recent observations on the pen- dulum have shown that the Bunker Hill monument is scarcely for a moment in a state of rest, but is constantly warping and bending under the influence of the vary- ing temperature of its different sides. Moreover, as soon as the polished surface of a building is made rough from any of the causes aforementioned, the seeds of minute lichens and mosses, which are con- stantly floating in the atmosphere, make it a place of repose, and from the growth and decay of the microscopic plants which spring from these discoloration is pro- duced, and disintegration assisted. But perhaps the greatest source of the wearing away in a climate like ours, is that of the alternations of freezing and thawing which take place during the winter sea- son; and though this effect must be comparatively powerful, yet, in good marble, it requires the accumulated effect of a number of years in order definitely to estimate its amount. From all these causes, the commission are convinced that the only entirely reliable means of ascertaining the comparative capability of marble to resist the weather is to study the actual effects of the atmosphere upon it as exhibited in buildings which for years have been exposed to these influences. Unfortunately, however, in this country, but few opportunities for applying this test are to be found. It is true some analagous information may be derived from the examination of the exposed surfaces of marble in their out-crops at the quarry; but in this case the length of time they have been exposed, and the changes of actions to Avhich they may have been subjected during, perhaps, long geological periods, are unknown; and since different quarries may not have been exposed to the same action, they do not always afford definite data for reliable comparative estimates of durability, except where different specimens occur in the same quarry. As we have said before, the act of testing the quality of stone for building purposes is at present in a very imperfect state; the object is to imitate the operations of nature, and at the same time to hasten the effect by increasing the energy of the action, and, after all, the result may be deemed but as approximative, or, to a con- siderable degree, merely probable. About twenty years ago an ingenious process was devised by M. Brard, which consists in saturating the stone to be tested with a solution of the sulphate of soda. In drying this salt crystallizes and expands, thus producing an exfoliation of surface which is supposed to imitate the effect of frost. Though this process has been much relied on, and generally employed, recent investigations made by Dr. Owen lead us to doubt its perfect analogy with that of the operations of nature. He found that the results produced by the actual exposure to freezing and thawing in the air, dur- ing a portion of winter, in the case of the more porous stones, produced very different results from those obtained by the drying of the salt. It appears from his experi- ments that the action of the latter is chemical as well as mechanical. The commission in consideration of this have attempted to produce results on the stone by freezing and thawing by means of artificial cold and heat. This process is, however, laborious; each specimen must be enclosed in a seperate box fitted with a cover, and the amount of exfoliation produced is so slight that in good marble the operation requires to be repeated many times before reliable comparative results can be obtained. In prosecuting this part of the inquiries unforeseen difficulties have occurred in ascertaining precisely the amount of the disintegration, and it has been found that the results are liable to be vitiated by circumstances which were not fore- seen at the commencement of the inquiries. This part of the investigation, there- fore, will require a long series of experiments in order to obtain results entirely reliable. 556 Documentary History of the Capitol. It would seem at first sight, and the commission when they undertook the inves- tigation were of the same opinion, that but little difficulty would be found in ascer- taining the strength of the various specimens of marbles. In this, however, they were in error. The first difficulty which occurred was to procure the proper instru- ment for the purpose. On examining the account of that used by Rennie, and described in the Transactions of the Royal Society of London, the commission found that its construction involved too much friction to allow of definite comparative results. Friction itself has to be overcome as well as the resistance to compression, and, since it increases in proportion to the pressure, the stronger stones would appear relatively to withstand too great a compressing force. The commission first examined an instrument — a hydraulic press — which had pre- viously been used for experiments of this kind, but found that it was liable to the same objection as that of the machine of Rennie. They were, however, extremely fortunate subsequently in obtaining, through the politeness of Commodore Ballard, commandant of the navy-yarrl, the use of an admirable instrument devised by Major Wade, late of the United States army, and constructed under his direction for the purpose of testing the strength of gun metals. This instrument consists of a com- pound lever, the several fulcra of which are knife edges, opposed to hardened steel surfaces. The commission verified the delicacy and accuracy of the indications of this instrument by actual weighing, and found, in accordance with the description of Major Wade, the equilibrium was produced by one pound in opposition to two hun- dred. In the use of this instrument the ■ commission were much indebted to the experience and scientific knowledge of Lieutenant Dahlgreen, of the navy-yard, and to the liberality with which all the appliances of that important public establishment were put at their disposal. Specimens of the different samples of marble were prepared in the form of cubes of one inch and a half in dimension, and consequently exhibiting a base of two and a quarter square inches. These were dressed by ordinary workmen with the use of a square, and the opposite sides made as nearly parallel as possible by grinding by hand on a flat surface. They were then placed between two thick steel plates, and in order to insure an equality of pressure, independent of any want of perfect paral- lelism and flatness on the two opposite surfaces, a thin plate of lead was interposed above and below between the stone and the plates of steel. This was in accordance with a plan adopted by Rennie, and that which appears to have been used by most, if not all, of the subsequent experimenters in researches of this kind. Some doubt, however, was expressed as to the action of interposed lead, which induced a series of experiments to settle this question, when the remai'kable fact was discovered that the yielding and approximately equable pressure of the lead caused the stone to give way at about half the pressure it would sustain without such an interposition. For example, one of the cubes precisely similar to another, Avhich withstood a pressure of upwards of 60,000 pounds when placed in immediate contact with the steel plates, gave way at about 30,000 with lead interposed. This remarkable fact was verified in a series of experiments, embracing samples of nearly all the marbles under trial, and in no case did a single exception occur to vary the result. The explanation of this remarkable phenomenon, now that it is known, is not difficult. The stone tends to give way by bulging out in the centre of each of its four perpendicular faces, and to form two pyramidal figures with their apices opposed to each other at the centre of the cube ancl'their bases against the steel plates. In the case where rigid equable pressure is employed, as in that of the thick steel plate, all parts must give cvay together. But in that of a yielding equable pressure, as in the case of interposed lead, the stone first gives way along the lines of least resistance, and the remaining pressure must be sustained by the central portions around the vertical axis of the cube. After this important fact was clearly determined, lead and all other interposed The Extensions. 557 substances were discarded, and a method devised by which the upper and lower surfaces of the cube could be ground into perfect parallelism. This consists in the use of a rectangular iron frame, into which a row of six of the specimens could be fastened by a screw at the end. The upper and lower surfaces of this iron frame were wrought into perfect parallelism by the operation of a planing machine. The stones being fastened into this, with a small portion of the upper and lower parts projecting, the whole were ground down to a flat surface, until the iron and the face of the cubes were thus brought into a continuous plane. The frame was then turned over, and the opposite surfaces ground in like manner. Care was of course taken that the surfaces thus reduced to perfect parallelism, in order to receive the action of the machine, were parallel to the natural beds of the stone. . All the specimens tested were subjected to this process, and in their exposure to pressure were found to give concordant results. The crushing force exhibited in the subjoined table is much greater than that heretofore given for the same material. The commission have also determined the specific gravities of the different sam- ples submitted to their examination, and also the quantity of water which each absorbs. They consider these determinations, and particularly that of the resistance to crushing, tests of much importance, as indicating the cohesive force of the particles of the stone, and its capacity to resist most of the influences before mentioned. The amount of water absorbed may be regarded as a measure of the antagonistic force to cohesion, which tends, in the expansion of freezing, to disintegrate the surface. In considering, however, the indication of this test, care must be taken to make the comparison between marbles of nearly the same texture, because a coarsely crystallized stone may apparently absorb a small quantity of water, while in reality the cement which unites the crystals of the same stone may absorb a much larger quantity. That this may be so was clearly established in the experiments with the coarsely crvstalized marbles, examined by the commission. When these were sub- mitted to a liquid which slightly tinged the stone, the coloration was more intense around the margin of each crystal, indicating a greater amount of absorption in these portions of the surface. The following table exhibits the average of the results which have been obtained, and, although they do not give the data for estimating with absolute certainty pre- cise relative values, yet they enable the commission to pronounce, with considerable confidence, that the first four marbles are of a superior quality, and, it is believed, will prove sufficiently durable for the work proposed. Column No. 1 gives the relative resistance to crushing per square inch, in pounds avoirdupois, deduced from the average of five specimens of each sample. Column No. 2 gives the specific gravity of each specimen in its natural condition, without allowing for the water absorbed. An allowance on this account would slightly change the numbers presented. Column No. 3 gives the weight per cubic foot in pounds avoirdupois. Column No. 4 gives the quantity of water absorbed under a pressure of about four- teen pounds to the square inch, produced by placing the stone under water in the vacuum of an air-pump, and afterwards letting on the pressure of the atmosphere. Column No. 5 gives the relative amount of material thrown off in freezing and thawing twenty-eight times in succession. The quantities in the last two columns are expressed in weights of which the unit is the ten-thousandth part of an ounce. These of the last column are so small that the commission would prefer to repeat the experiments with a larger number of specimens, subjected to a greater number of alternations of freezing and thawing. It will be seen, however, that the results coincide in a considerable degree with the cohesive force, as exhibited in the resistance to crushing, and also with the specific gravity. 558 Documentary History of the Capitol. By running the eye clown the column, it will he seen that the several stones may be divided into two classes; the first four specimens of the table exhibit a high power of resistance to crushing, and a high specific gravity. In the remaining eight speci- mens, there is a sudden diminution in the resistance to crushing, and also in the specific gravity. The same change exists, though in a less marked degree, and with some exceptions, in the last column; and when we take into consideration the facts which we have stated in regard to absorption by a fine-grained marble, in compari- son with one of a coarsely crystalline structure, the results in the fourth column are also not discordant. It must be understood that the results given by the commission relate exclusively to the particular specimens which were placed in their hands as the samples which accompanied the bids. From these specimens the cubes experimented on were cut under the direction of the commission, and the remainder of the blocks deposited in the Smithsonian building, where they may he examined by those who are interested in the investigation. It should, moreover, be stated, that the commission, as a body, have had no oppor- tunity of examining the stones in masses in the quarries, or of ascertaining whether they could be obtained in sufficient quantities, and of the same qualities as the speci- mens which have been tested. Also, whether they exhibit the presence of sulpliuret of iron, or other contaminating substances, or show evidence of cracks or other unsoundness, all of which are observations of importance in determining the above. The following is a table of the marbles submitted to trial by the commission, arranged in the order of resistance to a crushing force: Table. Localities of quarries. Original Nos. of samples. i. 3. 4. 5. Crushing force on a square inch, in pounds avoirdu- pois. Speeific gravity. Weight per cubic foot, in pounds avoirdu- pois. Absorption of water, in ten-thou- sanths of an ounce. Loss by freezing, in ten-thou- sanths of an ounce. East Chester, New York 1 23.917 2. 8579 178. 62 39 i 6.2 Lee, Mass 3 22.702 2. 8620 178.87 103 9.9 Hastings, New York 9 18. 941 2. 8613 178. 83 66 11.8 Baltimore, small crystal 7 18. 061 2. 8605 178. 78 521 8.1 West Stockbridge, Mass 4 10. 382 2. 7143 169.64 68 8.8 Baltimore, medium crystal 6 9. 625 2. 7086 169. 29 55 13.6 Egremont, Mass 2 9. 544 2. 7129 169. 56 92 15.7 West Stockbridge, Mass 32 9. 071 2.7131 169. 57 70,i (“) Montgomery county, Pa 11 8. 950 2.7115 169. 47 691 8.8 Stockbridge, Mass 30 8.812 2. 7129 169. 56 87 25.7 Baltimore, large crystal 5 8. 057 2. 7128 169. 55 431 21.9 Lenox, Mass 8 7. 153 2. 7089 169.31 1191 24.1 a Result lost by accident. Respectfully submitted. Jos. G. Totten. Joseph Henry. Thomas Ewbank. A. J. Downing. Thomas U. Walter. Hon. Alex. II. H. Stuart, Secretary of the Interior. The Extensions. 559 Report of Professor Walter R. Johnson on the building stone used in constructing the foundations of the extension of the United States Capitol, made at the request of a select committee of the House of Representatives, consisting of Hon. John McNair, lion. J. M. H. Beale, Hon. James II. Duncan, Hon. Daniel Wallace, and Hon. Thomas A. Hendricks. Washington, D. C. March 11, 1852. Gentlemen: In conformity with your directions, instructing me to test the stone used in the foundation walls of the extension of the Capitol, with respect to their strength and durability, I have the honor to state that immediately after receiving your directions I proceeded to inspect the walls of the two wings, and to note, as far as practicable, the general character, and the apparent differences in the stones which have actually been laid in the walls. I had no difficulty in ascertaining that some diversity, both in appearance and texture, existed among the materials, and it consequently became evident that no one sample which could be selected would adequately represent the entire mass. It therefore became necessary to select a moderate number of samples, from differ- ent parts of the two wings, and, as far as practicable, with reference to the propor- tions in which they seemed to prevail in the walls. It is evident that this proportionality could only be approximately obtained. It is confidently believed that the extremes of character have been reached, but I should remark that the sample which was taken to show the least probable strength was one of a very few which appear mostly in the foundation of the south wing. Three samples were taken from the walls of each wing, besides which a block lying within the north wall was taken to furnish a series of cubes of different sizes to test the question of increase of resistance, according to enlargement of area, and one sample of the sandstone used in two or three of the interior projections only of the walls of the south wing. This sandstone is of the same character as that of which the Capitol is built. The samples were prepared for trial by sawing out from each six cubes of one and a half inch on a side, which were all carefully dressed by rubbing down in the ordi- nary manner, and the faces which were to receive the compressing force were made parallel, and all the specimens of very nearly the same height, by finishing within a steel frame, which enclosed and held all the six specimens at the same time, and which being turned over after dressing one set of faces, allowed the opposite set to be rubbed in like manner, and made parallel to the first. This frame is understood to be the same which was employed by Messrs. Totten, Henry, Ewbank, and Walter in their recent trials of the marbles. a Of the six cubes from each sample, one was selected and reserved for trials of atmospheric effects, and the others carefully gauged to the thousandth part of an inch, preparatory to the operation of crushing. In general the specific gravity of every specimen was taken in the ordinary way before crushing. For the sandstone it was found necessary to take account of the water absorbed when immersed for the purpose of taking its specific gravity. The machine used for crushing is that employed for the ordnance service of the navy in testing the various materials required for that service. It consists essentially of a lever of the first kind, having fulcrum distances of 20 to 1, acting by its shorter arm on a lever of the second order, having fulcrum dis- tances of 10 to 1, and, consequently, the relation of the weight applied to the first lever to the force exerted by the second is 1 to 200. The fulcra of the machine are all steel knife edges, and no allowance is made for friction. aThis method ot obtaining a perfect parallelism of the blocks was devised by the commission for testing the marbles; and the plans adopted by them were followed throughout by Professor Johnson in conducting these experiments, as will be seen by their report which immediately precedes this document. T. U. W. Documentary History of the Capitol. 560 The compression of the specimens, when under trial, was ascertained from time to time by suitable calipers applied by steel plates above and below the stone, and the modulus of resistance to compression was thus ascertained with considerable exactness. This modulus varies considerably in different samples, and even in different cubes from the same sample. In order to obtain a standard of comparison of the different specimens of the stone operated on, I tested a sample of a rock, largely used in this country, and to some extent by government, for building and other purposes. This was the Quincy sienite, which, as will be observed by reference to the table, sustained a very high pressure before crushing. In testing the action of the atmos- phere on the different samples, I may remark that, for the particular purpose of the foundations of the Capitol, I do not consider that the trials of the effect of frost are very important, as it is understood that these foundations will, when the building is completed, be embanked in such a manner that frost will never reach them. For other uses to which this stone may be applied these trials may be of much importance. To some extent an exemption from water percolating the soil will also apply to the foundations, since the water falling upon the building will be mostly carried away by pipes and drains, and the shielding of the surface by pavements or flaggings will tend to keep dry the foundation walls. I have selected for the chemical trials such of the samples as appeared to represent the exactness of strength to resist crushing, and have subjected them to such re-agents as are likely to be most efficient in nature in causing disintegration or dissolution. The two samples taken for chemical analysis were those numbered one and seven of the accompanying table, and for a mechanical separation of certain mineral constitu- ents No 5, of the same table, was chosen, being one of those which appeared to have been freed from the action of atmospheric influences prior to its removal from the quarries. For some of the other samples, likewise, the effect of heating was noted by way of comparison. Having visited the quarries from which the stone is stated to have been derived, I am enabled to state that the one from which the stone for the south wing was taken is known as the Smith quarry, and those from which that of the north wing is taken are the O’Neill quarries. One of the O’Neill quarries is imme- diately adjoining that of Smith, and these two appear to furnish stone of essentially the same character. The other quarries of O’Neill are a few hundred feet lower down the canal. At all these quarries I judge that stone may be found, representing every variety embraced in the series of specimens selected for trial from the foundations of the Capitol. At all of them there is a covering of greater or less depth, from one or two to ten or twelve feet of soil, sand, gravel, and clayey matter, with some rolled pebbles, all of which repose in beds, more or less regular, upon the upper edges of the micaceous rock, worked in the quarries. This rock lies inclined southwestwardly, in angle of about 50 degrees; and the natural beds and fissures of the stone afford passage to the surface water to penetrate to a considerable distance below the upper edges. This penetration has caused, in some parts, a discoloration, accompanied by a greater or less alteration of the consistency of the rock, the natural bluish or greenish color being changed to a yellowish brown, or drab color; and for about 20 or 25 feet from the top, the rock has been so affected by these surface influences as to be unfit for use in building. Below that level, varying, however, in the different strata, the workable stone is found. In some of the softer portions it appears that the decomposition has extended further down than in adjoining firmer beds. In breaking the blocks the depth to which atmospheric influences have penetrated is in general sufficiently indicated by the color. A careful inspection enables the quarryman to reject those parts which have been materially affected by the influences above referred to; and the large heaps of rejected matter near the quarries, evince the necessity and the exercise of a discrimination in the selection of such parts as are fit for building purposes. The discoloration of the stone is sometimes only super- The Extensions. 561 ficial. or extends to the depth of but a few lines. The upper edges of the rock next to the covering of sand, gravel, &e., afford little more than a mass of micaceous sand, with barely cohesion enough to bear handling. The rock in its normal, or solid state, appears to occupy an intermediate place between true mica slate, of which fMg-stones are made, and gneiss, which has the mineral composition of granite. This rock has quartz and mica in large proportions as compared with feldspar. It exhibits many nodules of quartz, nearly pure, and small garnets, together with iron pyrites, and magnetic oxide of iron. I submit a table, exhibiting, first, the number of sam piles tested; second, the part, of the foundation walls from which they were severally taken; third, the numbers of the several specimens taken from each sample; fourth, the external characters of each specimen; fifth, the specific gravity; sixth, the weight of each sample per cubic foot, derived from the average specific gravity; seventh, the height of each specimen crushed; eighth, the observed compression; ninth, the force producing the observed compression; tenth, the area of the base of each specimen operated on; eleventh, the modules of resistance to compression of each specimen; twelfth, the average modulus for each sample; thirteenth, the average crushing force per square inch, in pounds; fourteenth, the absorption of water for each sample; and, fifteenth, the loss of each sample by the effect of heat. * * * In conducting the experiments on crushing, the opportunity wa3 embraced of ascertaining the amount of compression which the stone received under certain loads to which it was subjected. The observations have a practical bearing when applied to materials of variable character entering into the same structure. If the weakest varieties were at the same time those which could bear the least compression, it might happen that the blocks of stone having little strength to resist crushing, as well as little capacity to undergo compression, might be crushed and destroyed, while the stronger kinds would be yielding to the compressing force and would be eventually brought to bear the whole load. If, on the contrary, the weaker varieties were capable of yielding to compression, without finally giving way until considerably condensed by pressure, they would still preserve their integrity, though so much compressed as to allow the stronger stones in close proximity to them to bear more of the superincumbent weight than belonged to the area of their bearing surfaces. As the compressibility of stones may be considered to arise, in piart at least, from their porosity, and as the latter property measures, to some extent, the power of the stones to absorb fluids, it ought to follow, that when a stone has become porous, by a partial decomposition, it should be both more compressible by a given force, and more absorbent of fluids than it was in its natural or unaltered condition. The experiments furnish a remarkable confirmation of this view. The table proves that the samples which had been altered by piartial decomposition (Nos. 6 and 7) were much more compressible; that is, they gave a lower modulus of resistance by compression than any of the samples which were in the ordinary unchanged state of the blue rock. The same altered sampiles were likewise more absorbent of water than those which were unaltered. The following short table shows the modulus of resistance and absorption of water, arranged with reference to increasing resistance to compression, and to the admission of water. Number of sample. Modulus of resistance to compression. Absorption of water in grains. 7 weathered stone ; 1,400, 600 1, 486, 600 5.88 4.20 1 not weathered 2, 205, 800 1.20 4 do 3, 263, 400 4, 318, 800 5,570, 500 0.90 0.81 3 do 0. 65 II. lfep. 646 36 562 Documentary History of the Capitol . The differences of compressibility are obviously not solely due to atmospheric action. It will be remarked that, instead of the usual term “modulus of elasticity,” I have used the expression “modulus of resistance to compression,” which seems to be more appropriate to express that character or property of building materials, which is practically applied in architecture. Ex mtu nations to illustrate the effects of atmospheric influences on the stone. In testing the action of frost, I have appealed directly to the process of freezing the specimens after moistening them with distilled water. This mode of experimenting (not now applied for the first time) has the advantage over other processes sometimes resorted to for imitating the effect of freezing, in pro- ducing both the chemical and the mechanical actions on the stone which naturally result from atmospheric humidity and a freezing temperature. Each cube subjected to freezing was enclosed in a thin metallic box, furnished with a suitable covering, and the whole series of boxes containing the specimens was placed within a larger vessel of thin metal, which was surrounded by a freezing mix- ture. Care was, of course, taken that all the particles detached from each cube by the freezing should remain in its own box. The gain in the weight of the box, after thirty repetitions of the freezing process, as ascertained by a balance sensible to the two- hundredth part of a grain, gave the loss which the stone had suffered under this treatment. Both in respect to the absorption of water and to the influence of frost, it will be observed that the strong rocks, such as sample No. 1 of the blue quartzose mica slate, and the Quincy sienite, (sample No. 9,) manifest great power to resist the disintegrating action of these powerful causes. While sample No. 1 lost only jf,; of a grain by frost, No. 6 lost No. 7 ffu and the Aquia creek sandstone, No. 8, lost t 7 0 2 q, or exactly 12 times as much as No. 1. While the sample No. 5, a very sound and compact variety of the blue rock, absorbed but x l 0 - of a grain of water, No. 6 took 4.20, No. 7, 5.88, and the Aquia creek sandstone 199 grains. The latter acted in fact like a sponge and became completely wet throughout. This was proved by crushing some cubes of that stone immediately after they had been immersed in water. It is proper to state that the absorption of water is repre- sented by the difference in weight, ascertained by first weighing the specimens after being thoroughly dried, and again after being permitted to absorb water by the aid of the exhaustion of an air pump, and the subsequent pressure of the atmosphere while immersed in a vessel of water within the receiver. Chemical and other examinations to ascertain the effects of the atmosphere. I have not sought to determine the exact relations of the insoluble ingredients of the rock to each other, since neither in a practical nor theoretical view would the information thus obtained be of much value. The rock is compounded of a variety of different minerals, and may be termed a quartzose mica slate, in which the quartzose constituent varies from point to point, and the garnets and other silicious minerals, usually occurring in such rocks, vary in quantity in different specimens. Feldspar is less abundant, at least, far less distinctly characterized as such, in most of the specimens than mica and quartz; hence the applicability of the name in preference to the term gneiss. When present feldspar is liable to be decomposed by the action of water, or of water impregnated with carbonic acid, taking up a part of the silicia and the potash, and leaving water in their place, as a constituent in the state of hydrates of silicious compounds, and of metallic oxides. The lime of the feldspar is, at the same time, converted into carbonate of lime by the carbonic acid accompanying the air and water, which decompose the feldspar. From this reaction comes the difference well The Extensions. 563 known to exist between feldspar and kaolin or porcelain earth, the latter of which is derived from the decomposition of the former. As the rock contains sparsely scat- tered particles of sulphuret of iron, and also iron in other states, a mechanical analy- sis was made on a specimen which was considered to represent fairly the general character of the rock, in order to ascertain the per-centage of that sulphuret. One of the specimens of sample No. 5 of the table, which had been crushed, was taken for this analysis. A quantity of it in powder amounting to 2747 grains, was carefully examined in small portions at a time, by the aid of a strong magnet, which separated the mag- netic oxide of iron. The powder -was then washed, and when reduced to a small quantity by floating off the lighter particles, the sulphuret of iron was easily sepa- rated from among the black sand and minute garnets which remained with it. The garnets had been in part collected while pulverizing the stone, and with the smaller particles gathered as above amounted to 20 t 4 jo. 1, pt. 2, p. 44.)] REPORT ON THE CAPITOL EXTENSION. Office Ex. U. S. Capitol and Washington Aqueduct, October 12, 1854. Sir: I have the honor to report the progress of the works for the extension of the United States Capitol. At the date of my last annual report the walls of the basement story had been raised, and on the south wing two-thirds of the arches supporting the principal floor had been turned; those of the north wing had been commenced. The limit to the rapidity of building was then stated to be the possibility of getting marble. The contractors for marble afterwards objected to supplying marble of such dimen- sions as were thought proper for the work, maintaining that their contract bound them to furnish for the ashlar only blocks of 9 to 18 inches bed. Upon your recommendation to the Committee of Public Buildings, a law was passed by Congress giving authority to make a supplemental contract to obtain the marble in larger blocks, and to procure the columns with monolithic shafts. A copy of this contract accompanies this report. The quantity of marble thus far delivered has not been sufficient to carry on the work as rapidly as I could desire, and as the funds appropriated by Congress would justify, but I presume that the contractors have done all that the price allowed them enabled them to do. The marble is quarried in Berkshire county, Massachusetts, transported ninety miles by railroad to Bridgeport, and thence shipped to this port. This complicated operation is liable to many interruptions and delays. Lately the arrangements of the contractors having been improved by experience, the delivery of marble has been more rapid, and I hope to accumulate a supply which will enable the contractors to keep the large force now at work employed all winter. At the date of my last report 75,659 cubic feet of marble had been delivered, which had cost $109,661.21. From that time to 4th October, 1854, there were received 48,968 cubic feet, costing $78,518.18. There are now on hand 35,758 cubic feet, or 1,321 blocks of marble, of which 695 blocks, or 17,261 cubic feet, are worked and ready to be set in the walls; and the remainder, 626 blocks, or 18,476 cubic feet, are either in the rough or in the shop partly finished. The supply has been somewhat irregular, which prevented the contractors from employing a very large force until lately. They have now about 250 men employed in cutting, rubbing, and setting the marble. The whole of the masonry of the basement story of both wings is now completed, and the marble facing of a portion of the principal story is carried to the top of the window-jambs; none of these jambs are yet completed. They are now in hand; and as they are very elaborately carved, some two months’ work being applied to each one, it will be some time before they can all be set. About thirty carvers are em- ployed upon them, and the force is being increased as good workmen can be obtained. The carving of the pilaster capitals has also been commenced. The interior walls have all been carried up to the spring of the roofing arches of the attic story: a portion of these arches have been closed. The walls of the Representatives and Senate halls are at their full height, and the setting of the iron bed-plates for the roof has commenced. The construction of the roof is commenced, and during the remainder of the season I expect to get the Representatives and Senate halls roofed over. * * * 618 Documentary History of the Capitol. I hope during the next season to complete the body of both wings, and to com- mence the construction of the porticoes. If the contractors for marble supply the material as fast as they have engaged to, I see no reason to prevent the next Congress meeting within the walls of the new halls. * * * The following appropriations have been made for the extension of United States Capitol, viz: Appropriation of 30th September, 1850 $100, 000 00 Joint resolution of 14th April, 1852 500,000 00 Deficiency bill for year ending 30th June, 1853 400, 000 00 General appropriation bill for year ending 30th June, 1854 600, 000 00 General appropriation bill for year ending 30th June, 1855 750, 000 00 2, 350, 000 00 Of which there has been expended $1,267,869.33; leaving available for the fiscal year ending 30th June, 1855, $1,082,130.67. For the service of the year ending 30th June, 1856, there will be required the s um of $325,000. Respectfully submitted : M. C. Meigs, Capt. Eng., in charge Ex.- U. S. Capitol and Washington Aqueduct. Hon. Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War. Agreement between the United States of America, of the first part, by Capt. Mont- gomery C. Meigs, of the corps of engineers, acting under the authority of and for and in behalf of the said United States in the erection of the extension of the Capitol; and John Rice and Charles Heebner, all of Philadelphia county, in the State of Pennsylvania, under the style and title of Rice, Baird, and Heebner, of the second part, witnesseth : * * * [Senate proceedings of Dec. 29, 1854: Congressional Globe, 33 — 2, p. 144.] APPROPRIATION BILLS. A message was received from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McKean, Clerk, announcing that they had passed bills of the following titles: Bill making appropriations for the support of the Army for the year ending the 30th of June, 1856. * * * Mr. Cass, before the Army bill was referred, said: I desire to state that I observe it contains an appropriation for the Capitol extension, and I want to say to the chair- man of the committee to whom it is referred, that I should be very glad to know what is the prospect, under the plan which is being carried out, for the ventilation of, and hearing in, the part of the extension which is to be occupied by the Senate. I rise merely to give notice to the chairman that, when the subject comes up, I shall ask him what the prospect is in those respects. I trust that we shall not fall into the same error which was committed in the construction of the new Parliament buildings in England, so as to subject us to the same sacrifice of money. The Extensions. 619 [House proceedings of Dec. 27, 1854: Congressional Globe, 33 — 2, p. 138.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union having under consideration the Army bill for 1856 — When the following paragraph was read: For the Capitol extension, three hundred and twenty-five thousand dollars — Mr. IIenn said: I desire to ask the chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means if it is the intention of the Government to quarter the Army upon the Capitol? Mr. Houston. No, sir; I believe it is the intention to quarter another class of patriots who have left their homes, and come here to carry on the business of legislation. [Laughter.] I will state, however, to the gentleman from Iowa, that this item was recom- mended by the War Department, and it was deemed proper by the Committee of Ways and Means to insert it in the Army bill, rather than to transfer it to another appropriation bill. If there are no other amendments, I will move that the bill be laid aside to be reported to the House. The motion was agreed to. [House proceedings of Feb. 20, 1855: Congressional Globe, 33 — 2, p. 847.] The House as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the Civil and Diplomatic bill for 1856, the pending item being a proposition to enlarge the Post- Office Department building — Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky. Mr. Chairman, I desire to say a few words in favor of the amendment offered by the gentleman from Tennessee, [Mr. Stanton.] When the present Administration came into power, the public works of this character in the city of Washington were very properly under the direction of the Department of the Interior. Some, I believe, were there by express direction of law, and others, perhaps, by order of the President. When, however, the new Administration became installed, such as could be transferred without interference with the rights of contractors were placed under the War Department. The Patent Office, the Cap- itol extension, and, I believe, one or more bridges in the course of construction, or to be constructed, were ordered to be taken from civil control, and placed under the management of military officers. In regard to the Patent Office, it was, I believe, ascertained that such a transfer would affect the rights of certain contractors; and the order, so far as that building was concerned, did not go into execution. This is the only reason why that structure — one of the very best ever erected by Govern- ment, not only on account of its beautiful architectural features, but because of the perfection of the work in all its parts — is not now under the control of a military officer. I have always believed, and have repeatedly maintained on this floor, that the employment of military officers upon these works was not only an act of gross injus- tice to the distinguished civil architects of the country, but was bad policy in other respects, and, in one instance, at least, a gross violation of law. I allude to the Capitol extension. The law authorizing that work created the office of architect, and provided that he should be appointed by the President. His duty was to execute the work. Mr. Craige. I do not want to enter into any discussion of this vexed question; but it is a fact known to me, and everybody else, from reports made to the two Houses of Congress, in regard to that business, that Congress itself changed the direction, and left it discretionary with the President to carry it on. Mr. Stanton. I think the idea the gentleman means to convey is a mistake. I do not think the gentleman can point me to any act of Congress, or any authority given 620 Documentary History of the Capitol. by this body to the President, or any one else, to change the character of the super- vision from civil to military. I intended to say when interrupted, that, notwith- standing the Jaw creating the office of architect, and its provision requiring him to be appointed by the President, the War Department assumes the power of controlling that officer, and has placed over him a military engineer, who is not only authorized to perform the duties of architect, but absolutely to dismiss him from his place, whenever he pleases; to regulate the whole character and management of the work; and, in fact, exercise unlimited control in all matters relating to the structure. This is a fact which no man can dispute. I beg to refer those who are curious on the sub- ject, or who may doubt what I have said, to the reports which accompany the Presi- dent’s message of the last session. They will there see the instructions issued by the Secretary of War to the engineer, placing him in charge of the work, and conferring upon him the extraordinary power of dismissing from office a civilian, who derived his place from the appointment of the President, and assigning to the engineer duties expressly confided to the architect by authority of law. The apprehension which I labor under is this: if we authorize the extension of the Treasury or Post Office Building, or provide for the erection of any other civil work, if it is not provided in the law in express terms, that the work shall be exe- cuted by a civil architect, it will be placed under the military engineers, and assigned to the control of the War Department. Sir, it is a reproach to the character of our Government, that its distinguished and experienced civil architects are not deemed capable of constructing our public edifices, or are thought unworthy of employment in such positions. I venture to say, sir, that they are equal to any in the world; and I venture further, too; I do not hesitate to say that there is not a single engineer belonging to the Army, I care not what may have been his experience upon military works, who is capable, without the assistance of an experienced civil architect, of constructing, as it should be constructed, any one of our public edifices. It is a great mistake to suppose, because these gentlemen acquire a theoretic knowledge of architecture at West Point, as part of an education begun and completed in five years, that, therefore, they are qualified for the construction of any edifice, no matter how elaborate or complicated its architectural details. Where have these officers had the experience necessary to qualify them for the practical duties of civil archi- tects? Not upon your forts and military roads. Surely works like these afford them no facilities for learning how to construct such a work as the Capitol. Sir, even upon your Capitol extension, with the military engineer, who has had two years’ experi- ence under the best architect in the world, you cannot dispense with the services of the architect. The engineer alluded to, I agree, is a gentleman of fine talents in his profession, of high character, and great ambition, and has learned enough in his position at the Capitol to make him, with more experience, a good civil architect; but let what may be said of him now, when he first assumed control of that work, he could no more have carried it on successfully without the aid of the architect, than the several parts of the solar system could move harmoniously in their orbits without the presence of the sun. I do not -wish to underrate the engineers of the War Department in the appropriate line of their military duties. Many of them are accomplished gentlemen, experi- enced in their professions, and a credit and ornament to their class. But military architecture and engineering are totally different things from civil architecture and civil engineering. Men who may erect a log hut are not, necessarily, qualified to build a palace; nor does it follow, because a military engineer may plan a fort, or lay out a road, he is, therelore, qualified to construct a stately portico, or erect a splendid dome. The building you propose to erect must have a civil architect. You cannot get along without such an officer. Were you to place a dozen military engineers in charge of the work you could not dispense with his services. Then why not provide at once that the work shall be placed under the control of some competent person of The Extensions. 621 that class, and intrust his selection to the President? The presence of a military engineer is but an incumbrance, and serves only to embarrass the architect. His judgment is controlled by the engineer, his designs frequently multilated, and the harmonious progress of the work often impeded. I do not know of any civil work in progress, which is placed under the control of a military engineer, that some half- paid civil architect is not employed to do the work for which the credit is given to the Army officer. Sir, it is a notorious fact, that these civil architects, occupying these subordinate and humiliating positions, draw all the designs, make all the cal- culations and estimates, measure the work and materials, and perform the valuable services supposed usually to be performed by the engineers, while the engineers sign the drawings and reports, and, in the eyes of the world, receive the whole credit for what is achieved. Why, sir, in the very proposition now pending to enlarge the Post Office Department, you pay involuntary tribute to the civil architects of the country, by requiring, not that the plan of any military engineer shall be carried out, but that the work shall be constructed according to a plan designed by Thomas U. Walter, the distinguished architect of the Capitol! Who would ever think of calling upon a military engineer for the plan of a Treasury building or a Post Office edifice! It would seem to me to be worse than folly to place over the man who designs a great work a less competent man to superintend and control its construction. The evil of this has been made manifest upon the extension of the Capitol, where plans have been ruthlessly changed, details altered, and immense additional expense incurred, which was never contemplated, and which no civil architect would ever have dared to incur. But, sir, I do not propose to discuss this subject now. 1 am not complaining of the manner in which the Capitol extension has been managed. Complaints in that respect are useless while the work remains under the control of the War Department. But, it is sometimes urged that there is more safety to the Government in the employment of a military officer than a civilian. The military officer is said to afford a greater security to the Government for the proper expenditure of the public money, because he is more directly responsible to the Department. His life office is at stake, and the fear of losing this would deter him from any wrongful act. Sir, the fair name and character of a civilian is as dear to him as the office of the engi- neer; and it is unjust to set up for military men pretensions of greater integrity upon such grounds. But, sir, the question as to how the public money is to be disbursed is a matter not involved in the amendment under consideration. That is left to the discretion of the President, and he may choose whom he pleases for that service. What I desire, and what will be accomplished if this amendment succeeds, is, that the President shall be required to select a civil architect, competent to execute the work, who shall be allowed to perform the service without being subject to the control of an Army officer. Mr. Dickinson. I desire to ask the gentleman from Kentucky, under whose direc- tion it is proposed to place the construction of this building in the amendment which he advocates? Mr. Stanton. I understand the amendment proposes that the work, under the direction of the President of the United States, shall be executed by such an archi- tect as he may appoint. I think it is precisely' in the language of the original law authorizing the extension of the Capitol. It is to be placed under the supervision of such a civil architect as the President may appoint. The disbursement of the money is another matter, which may be provided for as gentlemen please. Mr. Dickinson. I should like to make another inquiry. I ask the gentleman from Kentucky whether there is any objection to the manner in which the work of the Capitol extension is carried on? Mr. Stanton. That is a question which I do not propose now to enter into. It would require more time to explain my opinions on that subject than it would be proper now to take. 622 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Florence. I rise to a question of order. I submit that this debate is not perti- nent to the proposition under consideration. The Chairman. The Chair cannot rule the discussion out of order from any remarks that have yet been made. Mr. Dickinson. I should like to make still a third inquiry. I ask whether the propriety of the manner in which the work of the Capitol extension is progressing has not been referred to a special committee of this House, which committee have taken no steps to enlighten the House as to the charges made against those having the work in charge? And whether that committee are making any progress in their investigations, or whether they have become satisfied that there is no foundation whatever for the charge of mal -administration? Mr. Stanton. In answer to the gentleman I have to say, that the committee of which I have the honor to be the chairman was intrusted with an inquiry as to the general policy of employing military officers in superintending civil works. They had also in charge the matter of inquiring into the' military superintendency of the armories. They spent nearly the whole of the last session in their investigations upon this latter branch of the subject. They reported to the House their conclusions, and Congress, after full discussion, approved their report, and abolished the military superintendency so far as the armories were concerned. The committee was revived this session, and has made some progress in the other branches of inquiry. Some important facts have been elicited, which the gentleman can examine when he chooses to call at the committee room. He will find, that while many of the engi- neers of the War Department are taken from their proper military duties to act as superintendents of civil works, the service is embarrassed for the want of enough officers to take charge of the military works of the country. He knows, too, that, for several years, the engineer department has regularly asked Congress an increase of the number of their officers. Mr. Craige. Will the gentleman from Kentucky allow me to say that a portion of the subject referred to the committee of which the gentleman was chairman, was also referred to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. We had the same under consideration, and came to a totally different conclusion from that stated by the gentleman from Kentucky. We gave the matter a careful investigation, and became perfectly satisfied that, so far from there being any mal-ad ministration upon the part of the man having the matter in charge, the work was carried out in accord- ance with law. Mr. Stanton. I ask the gentleman to point to any law authorizing the appointment of a military engineer over the work. Mr. Craige. I did not expect this discussion would arise to-day. Mr. Stanton. Neither did I. Mr. Cr aige. I cannot turn to the law at this moment; we, however, became sat- isfied that there was no ground for the charge of mismanagement. The law sim- ply authorized the appropriation which was made to be expended under the direction of the President of the United States, and the President of the United States had a right to appoint whom he chose. Mr. Stanton. Does not the law to which the gentleman refers simply require the appointment of a disbursing officer, and expressly provide that he shall settle his accounts at the Treasury as the “accounts of other civil officers” are settled? Mr. Craige. The law directed the appropriation to be expended under the direction of the President of the United States, and he had the power to appoint a civil engi- neer, or a military engineer, as he saw fit. The gentleman speaks of the settlement of accounts. Well, sir, Congress had the right to direct that a military officer should settle his accounts in a particular manner if they saw fit, and because they did see fit to make such a requisition is no reason for not appointing a military officer. Our committee were unanimous in coming to the conclusion that no such construction The Extensions. 623 could be placed upon the law as to require the President to appoint a civil engineer over the work. As to the alterations which have been made, I ask the gentleman from Kentucky whether he is prepared to say that alterations have been made to the injury of the building? Mr. Dickinson. Mr. Chairman Mr. Stanton, (interrupting.) Allow me a single word more. The whole purpose of the amendment which was offered in the Senate by Mr. Borland, and under which it is claimed, the President had power to appoint a military officer at the Capitol, was to appoint a disbursing officer, and he named in it the Commissioner of Public Buildings, and it so passed the Senate. When that amendment came to the House, I went myself to the chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means, and had the words “Commissioner of Public Buildings” stricken out, and the words “disbursing agent” inserted. And if the gentleman will examine the record, he will see that the whole design of that was to put the disbursement of the public funds under some other officer than the architect, and clearly, from the language of the amendment, it was to go into the hands of a civil officer. Now, the office of architect which was created by the original clause authorizing the extension of the Capitol, is not repealed by that amendment, by no means, but that amendment simply created an additional office, namely, that of a disbursing agent. Now, under the authority conferred by that amendment, I have always contended it was an usurpation of power to supplant the architect by appointing a military officer over him, clothed with power not only to control all the designs of the architect, and to alter and change the plans for the erection of the building, but to remove an officer who was appointed by the President, and whose office was created by law. If the gentleman will look at the instructions of the Secretary of War to the engineer officer at the Capitol, he will find that he has authority to dis- miss every person on that building, and to change the management of it whenever he pleases. Now, under that clause, such authority was never contemplated to be conferred upon him, and no man who will take the pains to examine it, and does so without prejudice, can fail to concur with me. Here is the clause, word for word as it stands ujion the statute-book: “For the extension of the United States Capitol, $400,000: Provided, That so much of former appro- priations for the extension of the Capitol as remains unexpended, and the appropriation now made, or which may he hereafter made, for that object, shall be disbursed under such regulations as the President of the United States may prescribe; the accounts for such disbursement to be audited and paid at the Treasury, in the same manner as the accounts of other civil officers charged with the dis- bursement of the public money. And said disbursing agent shall report to the President his disburse- ments and proceedings, in time to be presented to Congress at the commencement of each annual session, and at any other time when required.” Under such a provision, how can it be possible that any man can be mistaken as to the kind of officer contemplated? Mr. Craige. I must only say this: That the gentleman from Kentucky comes to a different conclusion, with regard to this matter, from that which he formerly came to, according to the statement which he made two years ago, from the Committee on the Capitol extension, in relation to the mode in which the appropriations were expended. I was not in Congress, however, at that time, and had no such light as the gentleman had. The committee over which 1 preside have come to this conclu- sion by the law as written — and by the true construction of that law they could come to no other conclusion — to wit: that the work ivas placed under the direction of the President of the United States, without suggesting anything as to the employment of civil or military officers; and it does not follow, from the mere fact of the law saying that the accounts of the disbursing agent shall be settled as the accounts of other civil officers under the Government, that, therefore, the contemplation of those w T ho passed that act was, that it should be placed under civil management. I take it that 624 Documentary History of the Capitol. there are other instances besides this in which the accounts of military men have been settled just in the same way as the accounts of civil officers are settled. Mr. Stanton. The gentleman will recollect that the language of the law is this: his accounts are to be audited and paid in the same manner as the “accounts of other civil officers ” are audited and paid. Now, what effect has the word 11 other" in that relation? Does it not clearly import that the disbursing agent provided for is to be of the class referred to of civil officers? How can the language be tortured so as to mean anything else? Mr. Craige. I and the gentleman differ as to our construction of the law, and there is this further difference between us: The Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds were unanimously of opinion with me, that there had been no usurpation of power on the part of the President, but that he had a right to select either a mili- tary or civil engineer, at his discretion; while the committee over which he [Mr. Stanton] presided were equally divided. Mr. Keitt. No, sir; you are mistaken. A large majority of that committee are in favor of the present mode. Mr. Craige. Yes; that is so. Mr. Dickinson. I believe that the discussion which this subject has given rise to in the House, has done some good, even if it should proceed no further. We have heard, during this Congress, frequent complaints made in regard to officers in charge of public works. We have had repeated attacks made upon officers who had charge of the construction of the wings of the Capitol. As early as the fore-part of the last session, a committee was appointed, of which the gentleman from Kentucky [Mr. Stanton] was made chairman, and of which I was a member, to consider the charges which have been constantly brought before this House with regard to these officers who had charge of this work, the national armories, and various other civil works. And at one time during the last session, so loud was the clamor in this Hall, in regard to the malconstruction of the wings of the Capitol, and in regard to the impossibility of Congress being ever able to do business in them, that the committee was called together, at my own suggestion, on purpose to see whether the work should be permitted to proceed; or whether the committee should not bring before the House a proposition to order the work to be suspended until some change should be made. That committee convened and summoned the architect before them; and the result of their examination was — and I think the committee were unanimous about it, for I never heard anything more from the chairman — that the work was progressing in the most skillful, the most scientific, and the best possible manner. Mr. Stanton. Will the gentleman allow me to correct him ? The architect was, on a single morning, brought into the committee room, and informally, without be- ing under oath — but his word was just as good to me as his oath — he Avas examined touching the question of ventilation, and touching nothing else. I do not recollect that a single question Avas asked him save on that subject. He told us distinctly, in that examination, that he did not approve the plans of ventilation ivhich had been adopted by Captain Meigs against his consent ; but that he had prevailed on Captain Meigs to permit him so to construct the concern, that, by reversing the action, the atmosphere would ascend up through the floor, instead of being brought doivn through the ceiling. Mr. Dickinson. The gentlemen says that the architect employed by Congress was not under oath. Why did not the gentleman place him under oath? I undertake to say that, all of the committee, with the exception of himself, Avere perfectly satisfied with the statement of the architect. If the gentleman Avanted to elict more infor- mation, who did he not ask the architect to come again? and if he were not satisfied with his answers, Avhy did he not examine him under oath ? Mr. Stanton. I Avill answer the gentleman from Massachusetts, [Mr. Dickinson.] He knows as well as I do, that Ave had just concluded our labors on a single branch The Extensions. 625 of the investigation. The session of Congress was just about to expire; and the committee had no time to enter into the investigation as to the management. We had not time to do so. The whole time of our session was occupied in other portions of the investigation. That is the reason why I did not call upon the architect to answer as to the manner of the management. At the present session of Congress, when the committee met, I proposed to enter vigorously upon that examination, but the committee seemed disposed not to sustain me, and, therefore, I dropped it. I did not want to stand singly and alone on the question, when it was obvious to me that the rest of the committee were indisposed to enter into it. But I was willing to take off my coat and go to work, so as to show to the country that the more economical plan of management was not to place the management under military control, not to place it in the hands of an engineer officer, who was never brought up to such business, and who would take the plans of others and sign his name to them, and claim the credit of them. Mr. Dickinson. I think, Mr. Chairman, the committee had abundant time, before the close of the last session of Congress, to make as full an examination of this mat- ter as could be of any practical benefit. We had time to make any other inquiry which the chairman of that committee might choose to make of the architect or otherwise. And if the work on these Capitol wings, to be erected at an expense of some hundreds of thousands of dollars, was to be continued during the recess of Con- gress, and if the chairman of that committee considered that, when completed, they were to be unfit for the purposes for which they were intended, I am astonished that he should undertake to state to this House, in the presence of all the other members of that committee, that we had not time to enlighten them in regard to this great matter, and to protect the country from an expenditure which was to be worse than useless, and that he should not have insisted upon the further and prompt action of the committee in the exigency. I do not so recollect the facts as stated by him; and in regard to the gentleman’s taking off his coat at the commence- ment of this session, I can say that we were as read}’ as he was to examine engi- neers, and architects, and everybody who knew anything about the matter. But we did not see the necessity of further investigation; and that is why he says the majority of the committee were not disposed to go into it. It was not for the reason which the gentleman assigns, but because the majority of the committee had become satisfied that these charges were a farce, that they were without foundation, and that the subject had become a perfect monomania with him. The majority of the committee saw that there was no foundation in fact for the charges made here, and reiterated from session to session, and from Congress to Congress, in relation to the manner in which the public money was expended by these military officers. I am prepared to say that there is not a gentleman anywhere, who has any knowledge of the engineer and architect and their plans, who is not perfectly satis- fied with their integrity, their eminent capacity, and the perfect sympathy which exists between these two officers, and the perfect cooperation which these gentlemen show in all these public works. If the amendment be adopted to construct a Post Office or Treasury Building, without the amendment to the amendment offered by the gentleman from Tennessee, [Mr. Stanton,] this same engineer and architect may go hand in hand in the same manner to construct them, and the country will have great reason to feel proud of such eminent professional skill, and abundantly satis- fied with the result of their joint labors and responsibilities. Mr. Craige. I rise to a question of order. I think that we have had quite enough of this discussion in regard to the Capitol extension. It is not the matter before the committee now. The Chairman. The Chair thinks that remarks in regard to the extension of the Capitol are in order, and the Chair is compelled to overrule the point of order. II. Rep. 646 40 Documentary History of the Capitol. 626 Mr. Dickinson. I do not, desire to discuss this question any further than to state to the House that this House, and the country, have been most unmitigatedly imposed upon by the charges that have been made here against the military superintendency of the public works, without any ground to sustain them; and I think it is high time for members to understand what they are legislating about. I say this with all respect for the intelligence of the body. We have spent the greater part of one session already in investigating one branch of this matter, and heard continually the charges of fraud which have been committed by officers having in charge the public works. Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky, (interposing.) The gentleman from Massachusetts, as well as other gentlemen here, know that I never made any such charges of fraud. Mr. Dickinson. I do not mean to make any charges against the gentleman from Kentucky, or any other member upon this floor; but the resolutions upon record bear me out in saying — or else they mean nothing — that charges of fraud were made against these officers. There were resolutions of inquiry offered by the gentleman himself, as to the mode of expending money in constructing public works by Army officers, and the expediency of providing by law that no military man should have the charge of their construction; and no gentleman has occupied the time of the H ouse so much as he in trying to convince the country that great frauds have been committed by officers connected with the Army, while engaged in this service. If the country does not understand that these charges have been made, and that resolutions of inquiry were offered in this House to draw out facts to sustain these charges, then all I have to say is, that I have entirely misunderstood its proceedings; that I have misunderstood the proceedings of the select committee upon this subject, of which I am a member, that sat here for nearly six months of the last session; and that I have misunderstood the whole object of these inquiries. 1 think, then, that it is high time that, the House was enlightened upon this sub- ject; and I undertake to say, with the most perfect confidence, that if the question of changing the superintendency of the national armories, which was practically done at the last, session, were to be reconsidered to-day, I have great confidence that I should be able to convince the House, notwithstanding there was a majority of nearly a hundred votes in favor of the change from military officers to civilians, that it would be better for the country to restore the management of the armories to military officers. There is no justice, every time we make an appropriation for a Government building, in saying, when the President of the United States is author- ized to take charge of the work and select, the men under whose superintendence it shall be built, that he shall be restricted and precluded from making a selection of Army officers for that purpose, if he desires to do so, and thinks the public interest demands it,. It is very unjust to single out Army officers as incompetent, from education, to take charge of these works, when it, is well known to everybody that the officers who are educated at the military schools of the country are approved practical engineers; and while the demand for engineers is so great, not only for the service of the Government, but for private enterprises, shall the President of the United States be prohibited from employing an officer to superintend any public work because he has been educated at a military school? I think we have been legislating upon this subject with very narrow views; and I am very glad that- a distinct, general bill has been introduced by the gentleman from Ken- tucky, changing the superintendence of the national armories from military to civil officers, because it will give an opportunity to discuss the impolicy of the change made at the last session, and open the whole subject to reexamination. I do not believe in the doctrine of prohibiting the President from employing any man to superintend these works who might have been educated at West Point, and enjoyed the best advantages of education as a practical engineer. I would allow him to select the most competent men, without requiring or prohibiting the selection of The Extensions. 627 either from the officers of the Army, or from any other class or profession. I make these remarks because it does seem to me that it is quite time to make some demon- stration against the daily introduction of this political humbug, and repudiate this demagogical idea that is urged so unceasingly, that these gentlemen are unfit for the duty of superintending these works. I have no desire to discuss the matter further at this time. I hope that the amendment will not prevail. [From the “Act making Appropriations for the Support of the Army, for the year ending the thir- tieth of June, one thousand eight hundred and fifty-six, and for other Purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1855. (Stats, at Large, v. 10, 638.)] For the Capitol extension, three hundred and twenty-five thousand dollars. [From the annual report of Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War, Dec. 3, 1855. (34 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 2, p. 17.)] I refer to the reports of the officer in charge of the Capitol and Post Office exten- sions for detailed information in regard to those works. The progress of the former has been seriously retarded in consequence of deficiency in the supply of marble for the exterior. The work is, however, so far advanced, that the interior finish must now be considered. The original plan and estimate were for a finish similar to that of the main building, but this style would not be a fair sample of the present state of architectural skill, and it is supposed would not fulfill the wish of Congress. It has therefore been thought proper to have prepared for inspection specimens of encaustic tiling, instead of brick and sandstone, for the floor; of painting, instead of white- washing, for the walls and ceilings; these and other contemplated improvements, not included in the original plan and estimate, may be introduced to a greater or less extent as Congress may provide. Modifications have already been made, such as the introduction of ornamental iron ceilings in the principal rooms, the substitution of iron for wood in the frames of the roofs, and the doors and windows of the base- ment story, an increased thickness of the marble in the walls, specially provided for by law, and a costly and extensive corridor required by the plan, but not contained in the original estimate. [Annual report of Capt. M. C. Meigs, in charge of the Capitol Extension, Oct. 14, 1855. (34 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 2, p. 111.)] Office of Extension United States Capitol, October 14, 1855. Dear Sir: I have the honor to report the progress during the past year of the works of the extension of the United States Capitol. At the date of my last annual report, the walls of the Senate and Representative chambers had been raised to the height of the ceilings. Most of the interior walls were at the height of the spring of the roofing arches of the attic story. The exterior walls of the basement story had been completed, and the marble exterior facing of a portion of the buildings had been carried to the height of the top of the window- jambs of the principal story. None of the carved window-jambs had been finished. The construction of the iron roofs for the buildings, a very heavy work, had been commenced. The carving of the pilaster capitals had been begun, and some little progress made with it. The work during the year has progressed satisfactorily, excepting that the supply of marble has been limited. This has retarded the completion of the building. 628 Documentary History of the Capitol. The present condition of the work may be summed up as follows: MARBLE WORK. The marble facing on the eastern front is so far completed that the setting of the pilaster capitals is commenced. The middle of these fronts is less advanced, as the time consumed in the elaborate carving of the doorways has retarded the work. One of these doorways, that of the north wing, is completed, and its entablature set. Part of the entablature only of the other is up, the cornice not yet being finished. < )n the other fronts most of the windows of the principal story are completed; 187 richly carved window-jambs have been cut and set during the year; a few yet remain unfinished. The average level of the ashlar of the building may be assumed as that of the attic window-sills. In some places it is not above the principal windows; in others the attic windows are completed, and some of the pilaster capitals of the exterior order are in place. The marble-work of the interior is in progress. About one-half of the column shafts, and three-fourths of the pilasters of the principal corridor of south wing, are set. Workmen are carving the capitals for these columns, which are of very elab- orate design, introducing in a Corinthian capital details selected from the foliage of native plants. None of them is yet finished. The capitals of the pilasters are all finished and most of them set. The marble base of the corridor is completed. A large quantity of marble has been procured for the marble-work of the Senate retiring-room, and the vestibules and stairways of the building. For three of the great stairways the Tennessee variegated marble has been pro- cured, and the working drawings having been completed, the work is now in hand. The fourth staircase it is intended to build of the green serpentine of Vermont, com- monly called verd antique : this is also in hand. A very beautiful marble has lately been discovered in Frederick county, Maryland. If it exists in sufficient quantity, the attempt will be made to use it in this interior work. A variety of specimens of colored marbles from Vermont have also been received, and some blocks have been ordered. There have been received during the year, in all, 71,954 cubic feet of marble of various kinds. Messrs. Rice, Baird, and Hebner had delivered, at the date of my last annual report, 124,627 cubic feet of marble, costing $188,179 63. They have delivered under their contract during the year ending the 30th September, 1855, and including the first payment to them in October, 59,806 cubic feet, costing $99,671 77. There has also been purchased from them for the work of the interior and for the statuary of the pediment, not included in their contract, 8,166 cubic feet, costing $13,596 95. There have been received also 2,255 cubic feet of Tennessee marble for the stair- ways, and 1,727 cubic feet of Italian marble. The whole quantity of marble received during the year has been 71,954 cubic feet, costing $131,015.16. The payments for the marble- work during the year to Provest, Winter & Co., under their contract, have amounted, including the payment in October for the work done in September, to $223,001.17. There are now on hand, cut and ready to be set, or in the hands of the workmen, 39,184 cubic feet of marble, much of which is finished, and there are on the ground 13,510 cubic feet of rough marble. The Extensions, 629 BRICK- WOKE. This has kept pace with the marble facing; we have been able to put in a few more arches of the attic ceiling, and to arch the eastern vestibule of the basement of south wing. The floors of the western tier of rooms in the basement of the north wing have been levelled with brick-work, and prepared to receive the tiling. A good deal of brick-work has also been done in the shops on the north of the building. A smoke-stack 60 feet in height, with foundations for engine and machin- ery used in building the iron roof, have been built during the year. There have been received during the year 2,301,189 brick, of which there have been laid 1,734,782, and there are now on hand 1,662,841. PLASTERING. Many of the basement rooms have received the first coat of plaster, which leaves them in proper condition for finishing either with plaster decorations or to receive the intonaco for fresco painting. FLOORS. The rooms in the western part of the basement of the north wing having been plastered, the laying of the tile floors has been begun. These rooms will be floored with encaustic tiles. A very beautiful composition, called chalcedon, lias been submitted for flooring, which promises even greater beauty than the encaustic tile. Floors for two small rooms have been ordered from the inventor, in order to test its fitness for the purpose, and his ability to make it in quantity. ROOF. The interior of the Senate and Representative halls are, at present, filled with scaffolding, erected for the purpose of putting, up the iron roofs. The whole of the roof-trusses for the House of Representatives have been completed, and part of them have been erected on the building. The Senate roof is also suffi- ciently advanced to begin its erection. These roofs require great strength ; the span of one of them is 96 feet. They carry, besides the roof covering, the cast-iron ceilings of the rooms beloiy. The iron used has been carefully selected. The tie-beams are from the same works (the Tredegar) as the chain-cable iron used in the navy. The rafters are made of Cooper & Hewitt’s rolled-iron beams, weighing thirty pounds to the foot, and in parts where the strain is too great for these they are strengthened by side-pieces riveted to them. Every bar subject, in the roof, to a tensile strain, is submitted in a hydraulic proving-machine, before being put up, to an accurately measured strain, greater than it will ever be liable to in the roof. They are proved to a strain of 10,000 pounds to the square inch. The greatest strain liable to come upon them is calculated at 8,545 pounds per square inch. The ultimate strength of the iron ranges, according to experiments made, from 50,000 to 60,000 pounds per square inch. The tie-beams are all double, and each beam is proved under a strain of 55,000 pounds, equal, for the double-beam, to 110,000 pounds. The corrugated copper for the roof covering has been received, and is in store. The roof plate-glass for the sky-lights is being manufactured in Philadelphia; a part of it has already been completed. The cast-iron plates for the ceiling of the House of Representatives have been com- pleted, and are in store; they will be put up as soon as the roof is covered in. Those for the Senate are in progress, and will be completed this winter. 630 Documentary History of the Capitol. Many experiments have been made during the year upon different specimens of metals and marble presented for the use of the building. Booth’s patent iron beam, and Cooper & Hewitt’s rolled-iron beam, have been submitted to tests. Upon these experiments, when somewhat more extended, I shall have the honor of addressing to you a detailed report. The workshops have been considerably extended during the year. The carpenter- shop, machine-shop, and smith-shop have all been enlarged. Machinery for sawing marble, and for working wood and iron, has been put up, and the work has been much facilitated and the completion of the building hastened thereby. In a work of such magnitude and variety as the Capitol Extension, it is difficult to notice in a report all the various branches which have engaged the attention during the year. I can but indicate them generally. CARPENTRY. Though the building is one apparently entirely composed of marble, brick, and iron, yet the carpentry required is very extensive. Centres for the complicated arches, scaffolds for erecting the roof and ceiling, patterns for the stonecutters, frames for machinery, cranes and derricks, buildings for shops, doors and window-frames, &c., have employed during the year a large force of carpenters. Two hundred large window-frames have been made for the basement and principal stories, and the 125 doors for the basement are in an advanced state. A large quantity of work for mouldings of windows, shutters, and doors, has been got out by machinery, and is ready for use. The carpentry for the removal of the old dome of the Capitol has been executed under the same direction during the year. SCULPTURE. The original models of several of the figures designed by Mr. Crawford for the eastern pediment have been received, and workmen are now engaged in carving in marble the figures of the Mechanic and the groups of Commerce and Instruction. The marble has not yet been received for the other groups. These figures are being carved in American marble, which is believed to be more durable than Italian statuary marble, when exposed to our climate. It is, though not of so delicate a texture, quite as white, and though not so well suited for parlor statues, it is better adapted to the situation in which this sculpture will be placed. We have received the models of the Mechanic, the groups of Instruction, Youth, Commerce, and War. I am informed by Mr. Crawford that he has completed the models of America, for the centre of the pediment, and the figures of the Woodman and Indian Boy, and is now engaged upon that of the Indian. A small figure for the decoration of one of the principal stairs has been nearly com- pleted in the studio at the Capitol, by the artists there employed. A skilful worker in bronze is engaged in casting the. bronze decorations for the gallery doors of the House of Representatives. As Congress appropriated §20,000, at its last session, for the purchase by the Presi- dent of a work of art from Mr. Powers, it is hoped that his statue of America will be one of the decorations from his hand for the new halls of legislature. One of the rooms of the basement of the south wing is now being painted in fresco. This will enable Congress to see a specimen of this the highest style of architectural decoration. It is the most appropriate and beautiful mode of finishing the building, and it will afford a field for the talents of artists never before offered in this country. It is not necessary that it be done rapidly, as, the designs and cartoons being made and approved, the painting can be done after the completion of the building, during the annual recesses of Congress. The following list shows the labor applied during the year: * * * The Extensions. 631 I have thus indicated some of the labors of the year. I regret that I have not been able to make as much progress as I had hoped at the date of my last report, but the impossibility of getting a sufficient supply of marble has retarded everything else. * * * Respectfully submitted. M. C. Meigs, Captain of Engineers , Engineer and Superintendent. Hon. Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War. [House proceedings of May 19, 1856: Congressional Globe, 34 — 1, p. 1257.] CAPITOL EXTENSION, ETC. Mr. Ball. I ask the unanimous consent of the House for leave to introduce the following resolutions: Resolved, That the President of the United States be requested to inform this House, at the earliest practicable day, what amount of money has already been expended, or debts incurred, upon the enlargement of the Capitol; and what further amount of appropriations will probably be required to complete the same, agreeable to the present plan of construction. Furthermore, that he cause detailed information to be given upon the following heads, to wit: The cost, per ton, when delivered at the Capitol, of the wrought, rolled, and cast iron, respectively; and the number of tons of each kind which has been supplied, and the number of tons which will still be required. The cost, per foot, of the various kinds of marble used in said construction; the localities from whence obtained; the amount of each description which has been already delivered; and the amount contracted for which is still to be delivered; and the proportion of that known as the “ Lee marble” which has been furnished in blocks of less than thirty cubic feet; and what variations, if any, have been made in the cutting of the marble specified in the original contract of Provost, Winter & Co.; and whether such changes, if made, have increased the cost of the work; and if so, to what extent; having special reference, in this connection, to the windows of the principal story, the capitals of the pilasters, cornice, &c. The quantity of bricks furnished, with the places from whence obtained, and the cost, per thousand, of each lot when delivered at the Capitol; the cost, per thousand, for laying up the same, including superintendence, tenders, &c.; and whether the said bricks were laid up by contract or by the day. The number and cost of horses, oxen, wagons, carts, drays, carriages, buggies, or other vehicles, used or employed in connection with said extension of the Capitol. The cost of shops, sheds, steam engines, turning lathes, slotting machines, stone saws, wire cables, derricks, and other machinery and tools, the property of the Government, used in said extension. Also, what amount of money has been expended, debts incurred, or contracts entered into, towards the removal of the old dome, and the erection of the new one, upon the original Capitol building. Also, the number of persons employed as sculptors, modelers, bronze workers, &e. ; the prices paid, and under what authority of law they are employed. And, further, that he cause to be furnished to the House a list of the names of all persons em- ployed, within each year, since the commencement of the Capitol enlargement, as superintendents, architects, draughtsmen, engineers, clerks, inspectors, or receivers of materials, foremen, overseers, messengers, watchmen, or others employed about said work in any capacity other than as workmen or laborers; specifying the particular service performed by each, and the amount of compensation. That the information here sought be accompanied with a detailed statement of all contracts made in connection with this building; stating whether the same have been made in all cases after adver- tisement for bids; and if so, whether the contracts have been awarded, in all cases, to the lowest bidder; and if not, the reasons therefor. * * * Mr. Goode. I object to the resolutions. Mr. Ball. Then I move a suspension of the rules. Mr. Cobb, of Georgia. I move that the House do now adjourn; and upon that motion I demand tellers. Tellers were ordered; and Messrs. Craige and Trafton were appointed. The question was put; and the tellers reported, — ayes 41, noes 61; no quorum voting. Mr. Cobb demanded the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were not ordered. 632 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House proceedings of May 26, 1856: Congressional Globe, 34 — 1, p. 1300.] CAPITOL AND POST OFFICE EXTENSIONS. The Speaker stated the business first in order to be upon the motion of Mr. Ball, holding over from Monday last, to suspend the rules for the purpose of introducing the following resolution: [Given under May 19.] Air. Phelps. I objected the other day to the introduction of that resolution, and I ask permission now merely to call the attention of the House to the fact, that there are two committees of the House which are charged with the investigation of the subject-matter specified in that resolution. I am willing that inquiry should be made into these expenditures; and if either of these committees will report that they cannot obtain the necessary information without an order of the House, I will vote to clothe them with power to send for persons and papers. I desire to call the attention of the House to the 100th and 106th rules of the House, defining the duties of these committees. The 100th rule, relating to the duties of the Committee on Pub- lic Buildings and Grounds, provides that — “It shall be the duty of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds to consider all subjects relating to the public edifices and grounds within the city of Washington which may be referred to them, and to report their opinion thereon, together with such propositions relating thereto as may seem to them expedient.” We have, then, another committee which is entitled a “Committee on so much of the Public Accounts and Expenditures as relates to the Public Buildings.” The duty of that committee is prescribed as follows : * * * I do not object to the introduction of the resolution because of any unwilling- ness to have the information published to the House; I do not object to the informa- tion coming here; but I do say, that if this resolution be adopted it will lead to an extended inquiry that will necessarily demand the employment of an additional force in the office having charge of these works, and the consumption of much time to procure the information asked for. If either of the committees to w r hich I have referred report to this House that, after proper inquiries to the proper places, they cannot obtain the information they need for a fair investigation of the subject, then I will vote for the most extended inquiry. These are the reasons for my objection to the resolution. Mr. Ball. I do not dispute the fact stated by the gentleman, that the committees men- tioned have the power to enter into the investigation of this subject; but because they do not take it on themselves to do this thing, it is no excuse or reason for any member of this House to refrain from doing what he conceives to be his duty. Air. Phelps. Is not the gentleman from Ohio the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds? Mr. Ball. Yes, sir; and as a member of that committee I have looked a little into these things, and the discoveries I have made have induced the introduction of the pending resolution. I w : ish the information asked for presented to the House and the country, so that it may be seen how the law has been disregarded and the public money wasted. It is not in order to discuss this matter at this time; and if the House suspend the rules and introduce the resolution, I will then tell some things that I am sure mem- bers have neither heard, read, nor dreamed of ; that is, if I am right in my calculations. Air. H. Marshall. I call for the yeas and nays on the motion to suspend the rules. The yeas and nays were ordered. The question w r as taken; and it was decided in the affirmative — yeas 131, nays 25. *• * *• The Extensions. 633 So the rules were suspended. Pending the above call, Mr. Thorington said: Mr. Speaker, I have paired off my colleague, Mr. Hall, with Mr. Pearce, of Pennsylvania, until the 10th of June next. Mr. Greenwood stated that by an arrangement with Mr. JBuffinton, of Massachu- setts, he had paired off his colleague, Mr. Rust, of Arkansas, with Mr. Hall, of Mas- sachusetts, until either of them arrived in the city. Mr. Keitt stated that his colleague, Mr. Orr, was unwell, and unable to attend the sitting of the House. * * * Mr. Ball then resumed the floor and addressed the House for one hour upon the management of the public works in the District of Columbia. His speech is with- held for revision, and will be published in the Appendix. In the course of his remarks he yielded for explanations to Messrs. Florence, Keitt, and others, and concluded by moving the previous question on the adoption of his resolutions. The previous question was seconded, and the main question ordered to be put; and being put, the resolutions were adopted. [House proceedings of May 26, 1856: Congressional Globe, 34 — 1, Appendix, p. 619.] THE GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS. Speech of Hon. Edward Ball, of Ohio. In the House of Representatives, May 26, 1856. The Speaker stated that the first business in order was the consideration of the motion made by Mr. Ball on Monday last, to suspend the rules so as to enable him to offer a resolution requesting the President of the United States to inform the House, at the earliest practicable day, what amount of money has already been expended or debts incurred upon the enlargement of the Capitol, and what further amount of appropriations will probably be required to complete the same agreeable to the present plan of construction; also, requesting minute information respecting the work on the Capitol and Post Office extensions. Mr. Phelps stated that he objected on Monday last to the introduction of the reso- lution of the gentleman from Ohio, and, with the permission of the House, he would call their attention to the fact that there were two committees which were charged with the subject-matters embraced in the resolution. He was willing that- there should be an inquiry into the expenditures connected with the construction of the buildings named, and if either of the committees to which he had referred should report that they could not obtain the necessary information except by an order of the House, he w'ould clothe them with power to send for persons and papers. He did not object to the information called for, but the resolution would lead to such an extended inquiry as would necessarily involve the employment of additional force in the office having charge of these works. Mr. Ball would not dispute the fact that the committees referred to by the gentle- man had the power to make the investigations proposed in his resolution; but because those committees had made no movement in the matter was no reason why any member should refrain from doing what he might conceive to be his duty. As chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds he had looked some- what into these matters, and the discoveries he had made had induced him to sub- mit his resolution, that the House and the country might see the manner in which the law had been disregarded. He knew that debate was not in order at the present stage of the proceedings, but trusted that the House would suspend the rules, when 634 Documentary History of the Capitol. lie would call their attention to matters of which they had certainly never read or dreamed. The question was then taken; and the motion to suspend the rules was agreed to — yeas 131, nays 25. The resolutions were read, as follows: * * * Mr. Ball then said: When, on Monday last, 1 presented these resolutions, it was not my purpose to have said a single word upon the subject-matter to which they relate, for I did not then anticipate objections, from any quarter, to their adoption; and, Mr. Speaker, I must he allowed to express my surprise, this morning, at the degree of sensitiveness manifested by some of our friends on the other side of the Hall, at a simple call for information touching the expenditures of public money in the construction of the public buildings in this District. The objection just now made by the gentleman from Missouri, [Mr. Phelps,] that it will require a large additional force of clerks to furnish the desired information, does not strike me as important, even if it were correct; but having visited the various offices of the superintendent in charge of the Capitol and Post Office extensions, and found the books kept in a systematic manner, I am satisfied the information sought can be furnished with very little extra labor. At any rate, I think it highly important to the country that this call should be made and answered, that the people may see precisely how their money is being expended upon these buildings. Before 1 proceed further, let me say, that I have not been controlled in this movement by any feeling of hostility towards the people of this District; I entertain no such feeling — far otherwise — I am in favor of a liberal expenditure of money here so far as it may be necessary to provide suitable buildings for the accommodation of Congress and the various Departments, and am desirous that these structures should be substantially made, and willing also that they should be adorned and beautified, so far as may be consistent with what ought to belong to our republican character. But, sir, I am opposed, ever and strongly opposed, to all expenditures which add nothing to the strength, or convenience, or true beauty of these edifices, and which are lavished to provide decorations, and trappings, and gewgaws, for the purpose of emulating the magnificence of royalty in the aristocratic Governments of the Old World. Such things are not congenial to republicanism, and ought never to be transplanted and cultivated in our land. Very soon after my arrival here last December, I heard many rumors in regard to the extravagant manner in which these buildings were being constructed, of inexcus- able waste of the public funds, and of the wrong and proscription which had been exhibited in the management of some of them. When, by your partiality, Mr. Speaker, I was assigned to the post of chairman of the Committee on Public Build- ings and Grounds, I determined to inquire into these rumors. From observation, here and abroad, and from a careful scrutiny of this report of the Secretary of the Treasury, the conviction has forced itself upon my mind that there has been, and now is, a loose, lavish, if not reckless, expenditure of money in the construction of all these public buildings; and hence I have felt it to be a duty incumbent upon me to ask the House to join in this investigation, and to adopt the resolutions' now before it, calling for information in detail as to the character and cost of the labor and material used in the construction of the Capitol and Post Office enlargement. I prefer no charge of corruption against Captain Meigs, the officer in superintend- ence, nor do I accuse him of neglect of duty ; on the contrary it gives me pleasure to say, that my brief intercourse with this gentleman has favorably impressed me with his strict attention to duty and uncommon energy of character. My objection is not to him personally, but to what I regard as the extravagantly expensive scale of his The Extensions. 635 plans and workmanship. If the Government desired to build a fortress to be made as impregnable as Cronstadt is represented to be, I doubt if a man in the nation could be found better qualified to take charge of such a work than Captain Meigs; but gentlemen schooled in the military service learn a great deal more about con- structing public works with strength than with economy, and seem to have no idea of the value of money. Such must be the conclusion of all who examine into the cost of the various structures placed under their direction. The original estimate for the entire completion of the two wings of this Capitol was 12,675,000. Are gentlemen aware that this amount has already been appropriated? It was done during the last session of Congress. Does any one expect to see them completed without an additional expenditure of two or three millions? How is this? What makes these estimates fall so far short of completing the work? Examine a little into some of the details, and you will perceive. Let me ask particular atten- tion to a few of them. During the Fillmore administration this work was commenced under the direction of the Department of the Interior, (where it properly belongs, ) according to plans furnished by Mr. Walter, the present architect. One of the first things which Mr. Pierce did, when he became President, was to take the control of the work from the Secretary of the Interior, and place it with the Secretary of War, and this last at once appointed a military officer, the present superintendent, over Mr. Walter, with power to change the plan of the work. Under Mr. Fillmore the marble in block, and the dressing of it, had been contracted for agreeably to the plan of Mr. Walter, which had been approved by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds of the two Houses. Captain Meigs, although he considers Mr. Walter the best civil architect in the United States, saw proper to alter his plans very materially. These alterations, of course, released the contractors from the terms of the contract, so far as relates to the work upon which the alterations may be made. I will call attention to a few of these: By the Fillmore contract, the price for dressing the marble for the caps and jams of the windows of the principal story was fixed at $280 per window. There are just one hundred windows of this description; consequently, the entire cost of the workmanship would be $28,000. The architecture of these windows was to corre- spond with the old Capitol. Captain Meigs caused a slight alteration to be made in the style of finish, and now pays the contractors by the day for that portion of the work. Humor says, that the cost of this workmanship alone, on each window, has run up from $280 to $1,400; or from $28,000 for the whole to $140,000 in consequence of this change. But this is not all the additional cost resulting from this change. By the con- tract for the marble in the rough, the prices were sixty-five cents per foot for all blocks containing less than thirty cubic feet; and $1 98 per foot for all blocks of a larger size. According to Mr. Walter’s plan these window dressings were to be made of the smaller blocks, and put together in pieces, just as the windows of the main building were dressed. By the change made by Captain Meigs, they are required to be wrought out of large blocks — that is, the pediment is wrought out of a solid block, with a bed of four feet, and containing by measurement one hundred and twenty feet, which, at $1 98 per foot, amounts to $237 60. The original plan required only about forty feet of marble, in three pieces, at sixty-five cents per foot, which would make the cost $26; a saving of $211 60 in each block. This was ascertained by meas- urement and calculation. Now add the same increase to the price of the marble for the architrave and jambs, and gentlemen can form some idea of the increase in the cost of trimming these windows. The increase in their cost in the aggregate cannot be less than $180,000, and may reach $150,000. This looks like a considerable item in an original $28,000 contract. Changes have also been made in the construction of the pilasters, by which the cost will be largely increased; but I have not been able to ascertain the increase with any degree of certainty, and shall not venture to name the amount. 636 Documentary History of the Capitol. Another change which Captain Meigs has made, and which will add vastly to the cost of the building, is the adoption of a very large number of marble columns — some two hundred or more — very few of which were contemplated in the original design of Mr. Walter. One hundred of these columns are to be placed on the ex- terior of the building, and are contracted for in the rough, provided the quarries of the contractors will furnish them at $1,400 each. Here, then, is an addition of $140,000 for outside columns. How much the workmanship upon them is to cost no one knows. But, upon the supposition that, it is proper to add these columns to the original plan, it certainly is not necessary that they should be in one piece. The columns in this Hall are composed of three blocks each. Is there a man here who would be willing to pay $1,000, or $800, or $500, or even $100 each, to have them taken down, and replaced with shafts in a single block? What architect will not say that they are worth just as much put up in sections as in single blocks? The columns of the present building and of the President’s house, the Patent Office, and the Treasury, are all in sections; those of this Capitol of three each; those of the Patent Office of nine each; and those of the Treasury seven; but I suppose Captain Bowman will soon have them reformed out, and substitute his $2,700 or $2,450 shafts. The marble in large blocks, at $1 98 cents per foot, necessary to construct one of these columns, would cost $500, which is $900 less than the price at which Captain Meigs contracted for them. Here, then, is an item of $90,000 thrown away, as it appears to me, on these hundred columns. F rom this gentlemen can form their own estimate as to the hundred or more columns for the interior. Mr. Craige. If the gentleman will permit me, I will remind him of a fact that he has forgotten. By a resolution of the last Congress, the person who had the building in charge was authorized to have the columns in one piece. The resolution was almost unanimously adopted. Mr. Ball. I think the gentleman is mistaken. There was a resolution passed which authorized a supplemental contract for marble, but it does not say anything about “one piece” — nor how many pieces there shall be in each column. Nor does it say anything about the number of columns. I have very recently read that resolution, and am sure I am not mistaken. Again: it will be remembered, by those who have read the report, and the deposi- tions of the committee raised in the Senate, at the instance of Mr. Borland, if I remember correctly, in 1852, to investigate the expenditures, &c., connected with this building, Mr. Easby, the Commissioner of Public Buildings, gave it as his opin- ion, that the quantity of marble needed to complete this work would be four hun- dred thousand cubic feet — three hundred and fifty thousand of it in blocks of less than thirty cubic feet at sixty-five cents per foot; and fifty thousand cubic feet in blocks larger than thirty feet, at $1 98 per foot. This would make an average price of something over eighty cents per foot. But Mr. Walter, who, it is fair to presume, knew all about it — he being the architect, and having made all the necessary calcu- lations — thought the proportions required would be one third in the large blocks and two thirds in the small blocks; and the average price would be $1 09J per foot. The total cost, at that rate, would be about four hundred and thirty-seven thousand dol- lars for the entire amount of the marble. He also stated to the committee that, the proportion of heavy marble would be diminished as the building progressed, it being deemed advisable to place heavier material in the bottom. The a 3 hlar has been increased in size by Captain Meigs. The beds of the marble now range, I believe, from eighteen to twenty-four inches, whereas, according to the original plan, it was to bed from nine to twelve inches. This is considered by all whom I have talked to on the subject, to be totally unnecessary. It will double the quantity of marble required for ashlar. But that is not. all; for, while it doubles the quantity, it more than trebles the price per foot; because, in that supplemental con- The Extensions. 637 tract for the §1,400 shafts for the columns, there is a provision by which Captain Meigs contracts to pay $1 98 per foot for all ashlar, the beds of which shall be eight- een inches. This change will add to the cost of the marble several hundred thousand dollars. Another item of these Capitol expenditures demands our particular attention. Are gentlemen aware that this Government has become an extensive manufacturer of statuary? It is even so. Just around the corner may be found two shops filled with Italian and German sculptors, busily engaged in manufacturing statuary to be placed in the east pediment of the two wings. This, too, is with no authority of law that I can find, unless under the general authority to construct the two wings to the main building. It is as well, perhaps, that there is no especial law for this thing, as for one, I should be sorry to bear any portion of the responsibility which attaches to this ridiculous feature of the expenditures, in which our Republican Government is made to play the poor part of a wretched imitator of the broken-down monarchies in the Old World. The statuary in question does notseem designed to commemorate any historical events or personages connected with this country — it seems to be a mere amateur collection, and therefore deserves no place in the National Capitol. The graven images are the likeness of nothing in the heavens above or the earth beneath — I beg pardon, however — one was pointed out to me as the wife of one of the foreign workmen. Yes, sir, we are to have this copy of a living original to adorn our Capitol. Is this meant as a sort of propitiation of the Sag Nichts? Are they to be indulged with the inauguration of an imaginary goddess of liberty here at the seat of Govern- ment? There are also in these shops several models of statuary, intended to adorn the stairways; many of them, perhaps all of them, represent Indians holding large bowls of water, some in one position and some in another. I was forcibly struck with one of these: he stood leaning forward, with a large bowl resting on his back just below the neck. Shade of John Randolph! step forth and rebuke this utter falsification of Indian character. When did we ever make a hewer of wood and drawer of water of an Indian? We have broken his heart, but never his spirit; never has he bent his back to be the menial of the white man. Is it not enough that we have driven him out before us, and compelled him to wander from wilderness to wilderness, with no abiding-place where once all was his heritage? Shall we com- plete the wrong by handing him down to posterity in imperishable marble, in a form which strips him of that courage which is the only attribute in which he glories, and presents him in that position which, of all others, his soul most abhors? Sir, I protest against this outrage upon truth ! The models for all this marble toggery have been procured in Italy, as I learn, at an immense cost; and if we are to be made ridiculous, it is right that we should pay dearly for the privilege. I said this was done without authority of law. At the last sessional! appropriation of §25,000 was made to “enable the President to contract with Hiram Powers for some work of art executed, or to be executed, by him, and suitable for the ornament of the Capitol.” This has no connection whatever with the statuary which our Government is manufacturing here at Washington. I have not been able to learn that the President has yet commenced negotiations with Mr. Powers; perhaps he does not like to encourage rivals in business. Mr. Speaker, if time would permit, I could call the attention of members to many curious things connected with these public buildings. I could show that, instead of thousands, hundreds of thousands — I might almost say millions — of dollars are being expended for things which are of no sort of utility. The only purpose they can serve will be to stand here as monuments to the memories of those under whose direction they have been, or may be, constructed. There is in the room, over yonder, in the south wing, known as the frescoed room, now, by your favor, Mr. Speaker, occupied by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds — that is, when per- 638 Documentary History of the Capitol. mitted to do so by the crowd of persons attracted there from day to day — a variety of pictures, some of them got up in bad taste; but no matter for that now; take them all in all, they are very beautiful to look at; but the great mass of the people of the country would think it strange inconsistency to expend $3,600 for such pictures, or $500 for the beautiful marble mantel which is there, in an Administration which cannot spare one dollar to be expended in clearing out obstructions to navigation from the mouth of the Mississippi, or the lakes of the Northwest — all so important to the commerce of the country. * There are many more items which might be noticed in connection with these wings of the Capitol. It is alleged that bricks have been bought in New York, Phila- delphia, and elsewhere, and transported here at a cost of thirteen dollars per thou- sand — and small ones at that, it taking thirteen hundred to measure a thousand. There are also reports about iron contracts which have reached me, but about the correctness of which I know nothing, and do not propose to speak; but I desire to obtain such information as will enable us to ascertain the truth of these reports. Again, it lias been said — I cannot state whether correctly or not— that there is a vast amount of money expended in the purchase of teams and machinery, of one description or another, far greater in amount than is necessary. We ought to know whether this is or is not true. * * * In former years the work of the Government was generally performed by contract, given to the lowest responsible bidder; but now, under the new system of detailing military officers to take charge of and direct the operations in civil architecture, the old contract system has been abandoned as far as possible, and mechanics and laborers are employed by the day. On this Post Office building, I believe, the contract system has been entirely abandoned. The marble and granite are dressed by the day ; the dressed blocks are set by men employed by the day ; the bricks are laid up by the day; in short, everything is done in that way. Such is the fact, also, at the Treasury, (excepting as to a portion of the material named in the contract of Beals & Dixon;) and such, also, is the case in regard to all the work upon the Capitol, (if I am correctly informed, ) excepting where contracts had been made by direction of Mr. Fillmore before the expiration of his term of service. * x * But, to show how unnecessary it was to pay such prices for cutting this stone, I will present an extract, which I take from a report of Mr. Walter, architect for the Capitol, and who had charge of the building before the Secretary of War placed Captain Meigs over him. It was made June 7, 1852. It will serve to illustrate the great disadvantage of employing men by the day, instead of by contract. He says: “ I was not satisfied, during the last year, with the slowness with which many of these men worked; and this spring I had the cutting of several of them measured, and compared with the time occupied in executing it, when I found that a large number of stones cost above one dollar per superficial foot for the labor alone, without tools or superintendence; this I considered as doing great injustice to Government; and in order to correct the evil, without throwing the men out of employment, I con- cluded to have the stone cut by the foot, and also to free the Government from the cost of tools and sharpening, which had become a large item of expenditure. I accordingly sent for Mr. Emery, an experienced granite-cutter of Washington, who has the contract for cutting the granite base of the extension, and agreed with him to execute all the cutting at twenty-five cents per foot, including superintendence, tools, sharpening, and every expense — this being less than one fifth of the cost by day’s work. I also stipulated with him that, all the stone-cutters in our employ should be employed by him, so that, none should be deprived of work.” Here it will be seen, that he made a contract, with Mr. Emery for the dressing of the granite for the Capitol at twenty-five cents per foot, which, he says, had cost more than five times that amount when done by hands employed by the day; yet, with this experience before him, Captain Meigs abandons the contract system and returns to the day’s work system. * * * It. will be remembered by those of us who were here during the last Congress, that a proposition was made for the removal of the old dome, and the construction of a The Extensions. 639 new one upon this Capitol. We were told that, if we would appropriate $100,000, the old one could be taken down and the new one put up, before our return here in December last. Man}' members hesitated to vote so large a sum for that object; but the money was finally appropriated. Well, sir, we went home and returned, but we saw no new dome. We found the old one partly taken down, but not a single foot of the new one erected. But 1 will tell gentlemen what we do find. We find a report from the superintendent, stating that, when the appropriation was made last year, no estimates had been made; and that the calculations now were not sufficiently complete to enable him to ascertain precisely what the cost would be; but that the approximate estimate for this dome would be $945,000. I have conversed with the superintendent and the architect, to know whether even that sum would lie sufficient to complete the job. Mr. Walter, the architect, states that the dome can be constructed for the sum of $945,000, pro- vided the remainder of the iron can be purchased at the same price per pound at which the iron columns have been obtained — namely, three cents and four tenths; but Captain Meigs gave it as his opinion that a higher price would have to be paid; which, I suppose, is a fact. My own opinion is, that unless we can have the manner of conducting these build- ings changed, the military superintendence and the day’s-ivork system abolished — the law of Congress rigidly adhered to — we had better stop the appropriations, have the buildings all clap-boarded over, and leave them until a change can be effected. For one, unless I can obtain some information which will satisfy me that I am mis- taken in my views in regard to these matters, I will never vote another dollar of appropriations to be expended in the construction of civil architecture under military superintendence. Mr. Goode. I wish to make one inquiry of the gentleman from Ohio. lie has stated, in the presence of this House, that we were told at the last session that if we would appropriate $100,000 the dome would be taken down and reconstructed before we returned here again. I ask the gentleman by whom that statement was made? Mr. Ball. I did not pretend to say that such statement was made by Mr. Walter or by Captain Meigs. I stated that such an argument was used in this House, I think, by Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky, and perhaps by others. Mr. Goode. I desire to say that I feel authorized to state before this House, that no such statement was ever made by the Superintendent of Public Buildings. Mr. Ball. I made no such allegation. Mr. Keitt. I was, during that Congress, a member of the Committee on Public Buildings and Public Grounds, as I am now, and I wish to say to my friend, the chairman of that committee, that that question never did come up, as far as I am apprised of the acts of that committee, before that committee. My impression is, however, that some one, possibly the then chairman of that committee, did make such statement upon his individual responsibility. Mr. Cbaige. No, sir; the gentleman is mistaken. Mr. Keitt. All I mean to say is, that it was not the action of the committee, nor the action of Captain Meigs or Mr. Walter. My impression was, that Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky, the then chairman of that committee, said it could be put up for $150,000. Mr. Craig e. The gentleman is mistaken in that. Mr. Letcher. If the gentleman will take the trouble to look at the debates in the Congressional Globe, he will find that Mr. Stanton did say that the dome could be put up for $100,000, and would be done at the opening of the present Congress. Mr. Stanton also brought here a drawing from the architect, and exhibited it in this Hall, spoke of the beauty of it, and urged upon the House the construction of the new dome upon the express ground that it would be an addition to the beauty of the building, and that it could be put up for that sum of money. 640 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Goode. I would ask the gentleman from Ohio, if he knows that the Superin- tendent of the Public Buildings ever has made an estimate of the cost of the dome, and whether he has ever pledged his professional character, in any way, as to the amount it would cost? Mr. Ball. I was going on to make the statement the gentleman wishes, and should have made it before this time if the gentleman had not interrupted me. Mr. Goode. I only wish the gentleman had made the statement before he made his other remarks. Mr. Ball. It will be remembered that I said that argument had been presented here — I did not state positively by whom. As has been stated by the gentleman from Virginia, [Mr. Letcher,] the design was brought into this Hall; for days it sat on the mantel to the right of the Speaker’s chair. We were appealed to personally and frequently — not by Captain Meigs or Mr. Walter as 1 am aware of; I did not at that time know either of them, but by others. But I shall not discuss this point further. I will content myself with presenting from the Congressional Globe the official record of what took place when that proposition was offered: “ Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky. I desire to offer the following amendment: “For removing the present dome over the central portion of the Capitol, and the construction of one upon the plan designed by T. U. Walter, architect of the Capitol extension, $100,000. “ Mr. Keitt. Is that to remove the dome on this building? “Mr. Stanton. Yes, sir. “ Mr. Houston. I desire to know whether the amendment comes from any 7 committee of this House? “Mr. Stanton. No, sir; I offer it upon my own responsibility. It comes recommended by no com- mittee, but it comes recommended by a necessity which every gentleman who examines the subject must see. The present dome does very well for the original building; but, as everybody must see, requires to be changed to preserve the symmetry of the building when the extensions are completed. It is important that the appropriation should be made now; and I understand the change can be made before the meeting of the next Congress. The architect of the building has designed a dome, the plan of which I have seen, and which commends itself to my judgment; and which all who have seen it. say is most beautiful and perfect . It is well known that the present dome is entirely too low to preserve the symmetry of the building when the extensions are completed. It will give it a squatty appearance, if I may be allowed the expression. Unless this is done the whole purpose of the extension, so far as its beauty of construction is concerned, will be defeated. Now, sir, I under- stand that the plan proposed by the architect is a proper one, and that it will not be attended with great cost. That dome has always been an eye-sore to architects and others who have taste in such matters; and it seems to me that now is the appropriate time to authorize the reconstruction of it. It can be, perhaps, completed before we get back here during the next fall.” So much for the dome. In calling the attention of the House and the country to these things, a duty has been performed which, to me, is far from being a pleasant one. It now remains for this body to decide whether these things are to continue; whether the only business which Congress has to perform is to come here from year to year and vote appropria- tions, to be expended just as the Executive and those acting under his authority, may choose, regardless of limitations or restrictions. The present Administration came into power under the most solemn pledges to keep down agitation and preserve the public tranquillity, to reform abuses, and to retrench the public expenditures. * * * Well, sir, the people wanted tranquillity and economy. They thought all these professions sincere, and they determined to put out the Whigs and put in these Democrats who promised them so much. All that could be said about the long and faithful service of General Scott, the perils he had encountered, the battles he had fought, the victories he had won, the wounds he had received, and the blood he had shed in his country’s cause, were of no avail; the people were determined to have tranquillity and economy, and they had been deluded into the belief that it was most certainly to be found among the Democracy, and the Democracy were placed in power. What is the result? How have these promises been verified? Why, almost the first thing the President did, after coming into power, was to unchain and turn loose a demon of discord, which has been flying hither and thither, stirring up The Extensions. 641 agitation all over the country, until this day we have such a strife amongst the people of our Heaven-favored land, the like of which has never before been witnessed. So much for the promised tranquillity! How is it about the economy and retrenchment? In what department is it to be found? Instead of our expenditures having been “reduced considerably below fifty millions,” as Mr. Buchanan said he was convinced it could be done “under the guid- ance of an enlightened economy,” the expenditures have been everywhere largely increased, until they now amount, not to fifty, but to nearly eighty millions a year; and that, too, without any part of it being applied to the improvement of our great inland commercial highways. The people have been deceived — betrayed; but, thanks to our admirable system of government, the time soon rolls round when they can have an opportunity to rid themselves of those who violate their confidence. The political waters are already beginning to move — the day of their deliverance is near at hand. They only await the “ides” of November, when they will visit a just retribution upon those by whom they have been wantonly betrayed. Mr. Ball. I move the previous question, unless some gentleman wishes to reply. Mr. Florence. I wish to say one word in reference to the remark made by the gentleman from Virginia. Mr. Ball. I withdraw my demand. Mr. Florence. I wish to say a word in respect to the expense of the dome and the Capitol. My recollection is that Mr. Stanton was opposed to the plan suggested by the superintendent and architect of the Capitol extension; that he submitted the plan and drawing of a dome which he said could be completed for $100,000. I do not think he was in favor of the plan contained in the drawing which was hung behind the Speaker’s chair during a portion of the session, and pending the discus- sion on the subject, I do not think there has ever been submitted a statement of the probable cost of the dome of the Capitol. An appropriation of $100,000 was made without reference to the amount it would cost, and I think such will be the recollec- tion of gentlemen generally. I have not had an opportunity to refer to the debates on that occasion; and 1 speak only from recollection. I believe that Mr. Stanton, yourself, and myself, took a position, last Congress, against a military superintend- ency of the public buildings; and the impression did obtain that Mr. Stanton acted in opposition to the plan contained in the drawing of the superintendent and architect. Mr. Letcher. Who made the drawing which Mr. Stanton brought into the House? Mr. Florence. The gentleman from New York [Mr. Pringle] suggests to me — and he refreshes my memory — that the plan of Mr. Stanton was drawn by the architect of the extension, Mr. Walter. I call the previous question. Mr. Ball. I ask the indulgence of the House to make a single explanation. Mr. Florence. I withdraw my demand for the previous question, and leave it with the gentleman from Ohio. Mr. Ball. I have been told since I introduced the resolution, that some of those persons connected with the public buildings were under the impression that Mr. Walter had furnished me with some data. I wish to say, for his benefit, that I never in my life exchanged a word with him upon the subject until after I intro- duced the resolution; and that no information ever came from him directly or indirectly. The only conversation I had with him was in the presence of Mr. Meigs, in the architect’s room, where I went in company with Captain M. to exam- ine the drawings. I was then for the first time introduced to Mr. Walter, and have not seen him but once since the introduction of this resolution, and then I called upon him for some explanation in reference to the drawings of the Treasury building. I call for the previous question. H. Rep. 646- -41 642 - Documentary History of the Capitol. [House of Representatives. Ex. Doc. No. 139. 34th Congress, 1st Session. Capitol and Post Office Extensions. Message from the President of the United States, transmitting a report from the Secre- tary of War, in relation to the Capitol and Post Office Extensions. August 11, 1856. — Referred to the Select Committee on Expenditures connected with the Public Buildings.] To the House of Representatives of the United States: I transmit herewith a report of the Secretary of War, in reply to a resolution of the House of Representatives of May 26, 1856, in relation to the Capitol and Post Office extensions. Franklin Pierce. Washington, August 11, 1856. War Department, Washington , August 11, 1856. Sir: I have the honor to submit herewith a report of Captain M. C. Meigs, corps of engineers, with the information called for by the resolution of the House of Repre- sentatives of 26th May last, in relation to the Capitol and Post Office extensions. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Jeff. Davis, Secretary of War. To the President. U. S. Capitol Extension, Post Office Extension, and Washington Aqueduct Office, Washington, August 9, 1856. My Dear Sir: I return the resolutions of the House of Representatives, passed 26th May last, calling for certain information in relation to the Capitol extension and Post Office extension. I have given, in the accompanying report, full answers to these questions, and have only to apologize for the delay which occurred in preparing the report. A severe fit of illness made it impossible for me to take any share in the prepara- tion of the answers for two months from the date of the resolutions. They required very careful investigation and collation of the records of this office, and the labor of preparing them has been very great. 1 believe they are now full and correct. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. C. Meigs, Capt. Engineers. Hon. Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War. First inquiry. Resolved, That the President of the United States be requested to inform this House at the earliest practicable period what amount of money has already been expended, or debts incurred, upon the enlargement of the Capitol, and where further amount of appropriations will probably be required to complete the same, agreeable to the present plan of construction. The appropriations for the Capitol Extension have been as follows: September 30, 1851 $100, 000. 00 Joint resolution of April 4, 1852 500, 000. 00 Deficiency hill for year ending June 30, 1853 400, 000. 00 General appropriation bill for year ending June 30, 1854 600, 000. 00 General appropriation bill for year ending June 30, 1855 750, 000. 00 General appropriation bill for year ending June 30, 1856 325, 000. 00 2, 675, 000. 00 Balance on hand and available July 1, 1856 ’ 189, 877. 10 The Extensions. 643 Expended to June 30, 1856 $2, 485, 122. 90 Expended from June 30 to August 2 90, 000. 00 Total expenditure to August 2 2, 576, 071. 78 Leaving available for the work 98, 928. 22 The work has no debts; everything has been bought for cash, and the accounts are settled and bills discharged as fast as they are received, examined, and found correct. Amount required to complete the work, including an allowance of ten per cent, for contingencies and omissions $2, 835, 183. 34 [The detailed information called for in the remaining eight inquiries is given in the document from pp. 3 to 211 inclusive, and an error is corrected in a subsequent document transmitted to Congress by President Franklin Pierce on Aug. 15, 1856: 34 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 143.] [Senate proceedings of July 7, 1856: Senate Journal, 34 — 1, p. 416.] The President pro tempore laid before the Senate a letter of the Secretary of War, communicating information of the completion of room No. 3 in the basement of the north wing of the extension of the Capitol; which was read. On motion of Mr. Hunter, Ordered, That the President pro tempore assign the said room for such public use as may require the same. [House proceedings of July 9, 1856: Congressional Globe, 34 — 1. p. 1576.] FRAUDS UPON THE TREASURY. Mr. Ball. I have been endeavoring, for some two or three days, to get the floor, for the purpose of presenting a proposition before the House — a proposition to inquire into frauds committed upon the Treasury. I hold in my hand a resolution upon the subject, which I ask may be read for information, stating that I have in my possession depositions to substantiate all the charges made. Only one affidavit is incorporated in the preamble of the resolution. Mr. Houston. State what is the character of the resolution. Mr. Ball. 1 propose to offer this resolution with the consent of the House, but not to make a speech upon the subject at this time. Information has been placed in my possession charging that certain frauds have been committed by officers connected with the Treasury Department, as well as other Departments of the Government. Some of this information is in the form of affidavits, one of which is incorporated in the preamble of the resolution. I ask that the resolution may be read for information. The resolution was read, as follows: * * * Resolved, That there be appointed by the Speaker a select committee of five members, whose duty it shall be to inquire into the general management and expenditures connected with the public buildings, or works constructed, or purchased, or in process of construction, by the United States, of whatsoever description, whether at the seat of Government or elsewhere; and that said committee be authorized to send for persons and papers, and to examine witnesses touching the manner of construction and the manner of awarding contracts, whether any bribes or fees have at any time been taken by any officer in the service of the Government, as a consideration for awarding any con tract, or for making any changes in the original terms of any contract, or for making alterations in the plan of any work, or for using his influence in any manner in obtaining any contractor extra compensation for any person for such work, or for being in any other manner instrumental in aiding to defraud the Government; and that said committee be authorized to inquire into the capacity as well as character for integrity of any architect, superintendent, or other officer; and that they have power to appoint a clerk to aid in the performance of these duties; and also authorized to report in whole or in part at any time. 644 Documentary History of the Capitol. The Speaker. The resolution can only be received by unanimous consent. Mr. Puryear. I hope that some other documents, in the hands of the chairman of our committee, relating to the same subject, will also be read, before the House decides not to give unanimous consent for the resolution to be introduced. Mr. Clingman. 1 object to the reading of any other documents. I have no objec- tion to the raising of the committee, but I object to taking up the time of the House with the reading of any documents at this time. Mr. Houston. If the gentleman from Ohio [Mr. Ball] will hear me for a moment, I will suggest that, as this preamble and resolution are very long, and as they relate to a good many particulars which we cannot understand by simply hearing it read, it would be better to have it go over until to-morrow, and have it printed. I will not object to its introduction, even if the gentleman proposes to dispose of it now; but I would suggest that it would be better to allow it to go over until to-morrow, and that it be printed. Mr. Florence. Printed in the Globe, I suppose; not by the regular printer of the House. Mr. Houston. I have no objection to that. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. I hope the gentleman from Alabama will include in his motion that the papers referred to by the gentleman from North Carolina [Mr. Puryear] lie also printed. Mr. Houston. Certainly. Mr. Ball. I have no objection whatever to the course suggested by the gentleman from Alabama. If there is to be any printing, however, I ask that the letter of our committee to the Secretary of War, with the reply of the Secretary of War, refusing to communicate the information asked for, may also be printed. The resolution was then, by unanimous consent, received, and, with the letters referred to, ordered to be printed. The following are the letters: Room of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, Washington, July 3, 1856. Sir: In addition to the inquiries propounded in the resolution adopted by the House of Representatives on the 26th of May last, calling on the President of the United States for information in regard to the construction of the Capitol and Post Office extensions, the committee desire the following inquiries answered, either in connection with the response to the resolutions above referred to, or in a separate communication, as you may prefer, to wit: The cost of marble workmanship of windows of principal story, north and south fronts, viz: the cost of the two jambs with brackets, the ornamental lintel which rests on the brackets, the pedimental head, and the inside jambs and head of each window, including setting, handling, superintendence, and every expense. The average cost of the marble of each window as above described, and the proba- ble amount that said windows would have cost if they had been executed according to the specifications attached to Provest, Winter & Co.’s contract. The cost of marble workmanship of each of the east front doors, embracing the two jambs with brackets, the ornamented lintel which rests on the brackets, the cornice, and all expenses of superintendence, exclusive only of the sculptured figures intended to be placed on top. What has been the additional cost of material in consequence of the alteration of the design of the said front doors from those mentioned in the contract of Provest, Winter & Co.? What will be the cost of the plaster models for the sculpture on top of each front door? Who is making them? Are they completed? And, also, what will be the cost of the marble sculpture to be cut from them? What will the plaster models for the east pediment cost, and what will be the cost of cutting them in marble? The Extensions. 645 How much are the plaster casts for the bronze front doors to cost, and how much will be the cost of the doors to be executed from them? Are any of the inner doors to be made of bronze'.' If so, which doors? And how much is the modeling to cost? And how much the work to he executed from the models? How much have the models for the Indian boy and girl cost? What has been the cost of the marble statues cut from them, and where are the statues to be placed? What is the total amount already agreed to be paid for plaster models to Mr. Crawford, at Rome? What the amount to be paid to Mr. Powers? And, if agree- ments have been made with other sculptors, to what amount, what for, and where are such models to be executed? Is any sculpture to be introduced in the extension of the Post Office building? If so, what is its character? How much is it to cost? Was it in the original design of the architect adopted by Congress? And if not, by what authority of law was it introduced? Very respectfully, Edward Ball, R. C. Puryear, Lemuel Todd, A. E. Roberts, Hon. Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War. Members of the said commitee. War Department, Washington, July 5, 1856. Gentlemen: I have received your letter of the 3d instant, desiring me to furnish certain information respecting the Capitol extension and the Post Office building, in addition to that requested of the President by the resolution of the House of Repre- sentatives of May 26, either in connection with the response to that resolution, or in a separate communication. In reply, I have to say that it would not be competent for this Department, in answering the resolution, to volunteer statements not required by its terms; and that, as the House has, by the resolution mentioned, called upon the President for certain specific information respecting the buildings in question, I prefer to make no communications upon the same subject, to be used in the House, unless required by the same authority. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Jeff’n Davis, Secretary of War. Hons. Edward Ball, R. C. Puryear, Lemuel Todd, A. E. Roberts, of the Committee on Public Buildings, House of Representatives. Mr. Houston. I ask, then, that the resolution be postponed until to-morrow. The Speaker. It can only be postponed when it has been received. Is there objection to the introduction of the resolution? Mr. Clingman. I consent to the introduction of the resolution, provided the course suggested by the gentleman from Ohio is pursued. Mr. Ball. I agree to the postponement of the resolution. Mr. Florence. The resolution and accompanying papers are to be printed in the Globe of to-morrow morning, and not by the order of the House. Mr. Ball. The House can take whatever action on the resolution and papers they please. I only ask that they be printed. Mr. Jones, of Tennessee. Let the resolution and papers be ordered to be printed. The resolution was received by the Speaker, its further consideration postponed until to-morrow, and, with the accompanying papers, ordered to be printed. [House proceedings of July 10, 1856: Congressional Globe, 34 — 1, p. 1595.1 FRAUDS UPON TIIE TREASURY. The Speaker stated that the first question in order was the consideration of the resolution introduced yesterday, by the unanimous consent of the House, by the gentleman from Ohio, [Mr. Ball:] which is as follows: * * * 646 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Greenwood. I do not propose, Mr. Speaker, to make any opposition to the res- olution. I think that charges against public officers should be investigated by a committee, and the result of that investigation communicated to the House. I am, however, opposed to one portion of the resolution — I mean that portion authorizing the raising of a special committee. The rapidity with which the gentleman from Ohio [Mr. Ball] seems to get up resolutions of this character have satisfied me that he has looked into these questions of fraud, and that the committee of which he is chairman — the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds — ought to take the matter in charge. For my part, I can see no necessity of raising a select committee to take into consideration the questions involved in the resolution. I am sure that no committee of this House, that the Speaker could appoint, would be more competent to discharge the duties devolved by this resolution than that com- mittee. The gentleman from Ohio is chairman of that committee, and — as I before remarked — has certainly looked into these questions, and has satisfied his mind of the necessity of the introduction of the resolution which he submitted yesterday, as well as of that which he submitted some days ago. I make no opposition to the reso- lution itself. It is due to the officers implicated that this investigation should be had. * * * Mr. Elliott. I do not rise, Mr. Speaker, for the purpose of making any opposition to the resolution which has been proposed; but as it involves a distinguished officer of the Government from the Commonwealth of Kentucky, I desire to state — although I have not seen that gentleman on the subject — that he does not seek to evade investi- gation; and I venture here to predict, from my knowledge of that gentleman, person- ally and politically, that the charge will turn out to be the veriest slander and calumny that was ever attempted to be perpetrated on a public officer of the Government. As far as he is concerned I can state to the American Congress, from my knowledge of the man, that he does not shrink from any investigation of this kind. * * * Mr. Houston. On my suggestion this matter went over yesterday until to-day. I desire, therefore, to say, without prolonging the discussion — for it seems to be a matter of universal agreement that some resolution should be passed which will result in the proper investigation of these charges— that my purpose has been accom- plished, as gentlemen have had an opportunity of examining the resolution. I con- fess, however, that, while I am willing to see this select committee appointed, and while I am willing to gratify gentlemen on the other side of the House who pro- posed this investigation in any committee which they may see fit to ask of this body, still there are two committees already existing — standing committees under the rules of the House — whose duty it is to examine this very subject. * * * Mr. Ball. It is a matter of the most perfect indifference to me whether this select committee be raised, or whether the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, or any other committee, be instructed to make the investigation. * * * One word further in relation to the remarks of the gentleman from Kentucky, [Mr. Elliott.] I hope that I am not understood as making any charge against the Secre- tary of the Treasury. There is no charge against his integrity in that resolution. It merely sets forth an affidavit which purports to state the facts. It does not charge the Secretary with anything improper, but charges that the architect of the Treasury and a friend of the Secretary’s about the Treasury Department have been reached and fixed. Mr. Elliott. I desire to ask whether the charges contained in the resolution do not implicate Mr. Guthrie? Mr. Ball. No, sir; nothing of the kind. There is not in the whole proceeding an implication against Mr. Guthrie. I will say further, that I brought this thing to the attention of the House without having any feeling at all against any officer in the Treasury Department. These papers were placed in my hand. Certain accusations and information were communicated to me, and I felt it to be my duty as a member of the House to present them here, and let the House raise a committee, if it see Tice Extensions. 647 proper, to make this investigation. It is due to the Secretary of the Treasury — it is due to the architect of the Treasury — it is due to every officer of the Treasury impli- cated in these charges, that an investigation should be made. * * * Mr. Campbell, of Pennsylvania. Is the pending question upon the motion of the gentleman from Ohio? The Speaker. Upon the amendment of the gentleman from Arkansas first; and then upon the resolution of the gentleman from Ohio. Mr. Campbell. I demand the previous question. Mr. Burnett. I hope the gentleman from Pennsylvania will withdraw his demand for a moment. Mr. Campbell. I will, if the gentleman from Kentucky will renew it. Mr. Burnett. I will renew it. Mr. Speaker, I understand, from the preamble of the resolution offered by the gentleman from Ohio, that improper conduct is charged upon some of the officials connected with the Treasury Department, Now', sir, I will say to that gentleman, and to the House, that the head of that Department will not shrink from any investigation which this House may see proper to institute. And I will say further, that I am authorized to say that the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds could have had any information they had sought in reference to any official connected with that Department if they had applied to the proper source. I desire to say further, that although there may be no direct charge against the Secretary of the Treasury, yet the resolution of the gentleman from Ohio is couched in such language as to carry with it an insinuation against the honesty and integrity of that officer. * * * Mr. Ball. I desire to say that I have no objection to the amendment of the gentle- man from Arkansas. I care not what committee investigates the matter. Mr. Greenwood. As I said before, I make no opposition whatever to the passage of this resolution. I hope it will be passed. * * * Mr. Burnett. In accordance to my promise, made to the gentleman from Pennsyl- vania, I now renew the demand for the previous question. Mr. Cobb, of Georgia. I ask the gentleman from Kentucky to withdraw the demand for the previous question for a moment. Mr. Burnett. I will withdraw the demand, at the request of the gentleman from Georgia. Mr. Cobb. The resolution offered by the gentleman from Ohio provides that this committee may report at any time, in whole or in part. I think that is wrong. I think they should report in the usual form. I request the gentleman from Ohio to strike out that part of the resolution, and allow 7 the committee, when they have concluded their work, to report in the usual form, and not report until they have completed their work. * * * Mr. Burnett. I have no doubt of the sincerity of the declaration made by the gentleman from Ohio, that he desires nothing but what is fair in connection with this matter. I have not examined the language of the resolution, but I certainly agree with the gentleman from Georgia, that the committee which is to take charge of the subject should be required to make their report as a whole. Let us have all of the facts, and all the testimony, at one time. * * * Mr. Ball. The gentleman from Kentucky seemed to insinuate that I had, by offer- ing this resolution, done something to implicate the Secretary of the Treasury. Now, if he will examine the language of the resolution, he will see that if any insinuation whatever is made against that officer, it is made in the affidavit which is embodied in the preamble, and not in the resolution. I embodied that affidavit in the resolu- tion because I did not suppose I could in any other way get the resolution before the House. * * * Mr. McMullin. I have no idea that it was the intention of the gentleman from Ohio to cast any reflection upon any public officer. 648 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Campbell, of Pennsylvania. I rise to a jDoint of order. The previous question has been called, and under the rules further debate is out of order. The Speaker. The gentleman from Kentucky withdrew the call for the previous question at the request of the gentleman from Georgia. Mr. McMullin. I will not detain the House for any length of time. I have only to say to the gentleman from Ohio, that while his resolution is calculated to reflect on the Committee of Expenditures relating to the Treasury Department, I am sure that such was not his intention. Mr. Ball. Certainly, not the slightest. Mr. McMullin. If there have been peculation and fraud and corruption in the construction of the public buildings elsewhere than in this city, it. could not be expected that- we should know of them. Mr. Burnett. Mr. Speaker, I do not understand that. I have yielded the floor. I promised the gentleman from Pennsylvania to renew the call for the previous ques- tion, and I desire to exonerate myself from any want of faith. Mr. McMullin. My worthy friend certainly turned over the whole question to the gentleman from Ohio. The Speaker. The Chair understood the gentleman from Kentucky to withdraw the call for the previous question, and yield the floor unconditionally. Mr. McMullin. I will detain the House but for a moment. I will say to the House, that from the motion of the gentleman from Ohio, I shall feel called on to call together the Committee on Public Expenditures, relative to the public build- ings, for the purpose of investigating the charges of fraud and corruption already made against public officials. Mr. Houston. Why did not that committee make the investigation long ago? Now we are near the close of the session. I do not blame the gentleman from Ohio for bringing up the question. I am willing the other side should manage the ques- tion as it. pleases. Mr. McMullin. My friend from Alabama does me gross injustice, unintentionally, I have no doubt. I do not myself seek to investigate the question further than is required by a high sense of duty. Yet the Committee of Expenditures on Public Buildings are willing and ready to proceed toilfully to whatever their duties require. We are ready to handle severely all malfeasance, either in the Treasury Department, or in any other Department of the Government. We are ready to go to the investi- gation when the question comes fairly and legitimately before us. Mr. Barksdale. Will the gentlemen from Virginia yield to me, that I may make an inquiry of the gentleman from Ohio? Mr. McMullin. I yield for that purpose. Mr. Barksdale. I desire to inquire of the gentleman from Ohio, if it is his intention, in asking for this committee, to investigate expenditures of the public moneys in the construction of the Capitol ami Post Office extensions, under the management of the Secretary of War? Mr. Ball. Yes, sir, if such investigation be necessary. I say frankly to the gentle- man from Mississippi, that, it is the intention to carefully investigate into the man- agement of the construction of all public buildings here and elsewhere. Mr. Barksdale. I have not seen the Secretary of War since the introduction of this resolution, and hence have had no opportunity of conferring with him in relation to it; yet I undertake to say that he is fully prepared to meet and to vindicate himself from any charges or imputations which may be made against him. And if any offi- cer in the Department of War has been guilty of malfeasance in office, he will be prompt, in investigating, exposing, and punishing it. I hope the resolution will be adopted. Mr. Rust. I insist on the enforcement of the rule laid down by the Chair yester- day, that the floor shall not. be farmed out by the member in possession of it. Mr. Barksdale. I have said what I intended to say. The Extensions. 649 Mr. McMullin. 1 have no doubt what the gentleman from Mississippi lias said is entirely true. This side, Mr. Speaker, are willing that not only the Treasury, or the War Department, shall have its affairs investigated, but that the affairs of every other Department shall be fairly and fully looked into. When there is a charge of malfeasance there ought to be a free and impartial investigation. I do not deny it. In this connection I will say a word in reference to one item of expenditure. Pend- ing action on the appropriation of $100,000 for a dome to the Capitol, it was asserted that that sum would be sufficient for the purpose indicated. Mr. Houston. I hope my friend will not go into the debate of these questions at this time. If there be an investigation, when the committee makes its report a dis- cussion of all these questions will then be had. Mr. McMullin. I will forbear. Before taking my seat I move to amend the reso- lution, so that, instead of being allowed to report in part, the committee will be forced to report in full. By reporting in part injustice may be done; there may be left, unreported, what is necessary for the justification of an officer of the Government. We ought not to let ex parte statements be laid before the House and the country: * * * Mr. Florence. Mr. Speaker, I do not take it that the pending resolution reflects on any head of Department; nor do I think that this side of the House should be held responsible for acts of wrong done by people who may happen to hold office under the Government. And when the heads of the Departments of Government are uni- versally acknowledged to be men of lofty character and unblemished integrity, I am surprised that any gentleman should deem that an investigation into the official char- acter of a subordinate is a reflection on the character of either of those high public officers. I do not think that it is, and I am, sir, for this investigation. * * * Mr. Houston. I wish to say Mr. Wheeler. I object to any interruption. Mr. Florence. Wherever the fraud is, Mr. Speaker, there let the responsibility rest. Let the offender be punished. I do not believe, however, that any of the heads of Departments are reflected on. I believe that never before, in the history of the Government, was there such a rigid exaction of duty demanded by the heads of Departments. Every head of bureau, and every subordinate, is held to the strictest accountability. But rascals may steal in. Men may “steal the livery of the court of Heaven to serve the Devil in.” I am for thorough investigation. Adherence to Democratic truths must make every man an honest man; and, if there be a dishonest man in the Departments, let him be ferreted out. He ought not to be a subordinate in a Democratic administration. The gentleman from Ohio [Mr. Ball] desired to have a moment to respond to the gentleman from Mississippi, [Mr. Quitman,] and I am willing to yield the floor to him if the House will consent. Mr. Wheeler. I object. Mr. Florence. Then I demand the previous question. Mr. Goode. I desire to have two words inserted in the resolution. The Speaker. It cannot be done pending the call for the previous question. The previous question was seconded; and the main question was ordered to be put; being first on Mr. McMullin’s amendment to strike out the words, “or in part,” so as to authorize the committee to report in whole at any time. Mr. Hickman demanded tellers. Tellers were ordered; and Messrs. Hickman and Bocock were appointed. The question was taken; and the tellers reported — ayes 51, noes not counted. So the amendment was disagreed to. The resolution was then agreed to. The Speaker appointed the following gentlemen to constitute the select committee called for by the resolution: Messrs. Ball, Kennett, Burnett, King, and Cadwalader. 650 Documentary History of tlic Capitol. [House proceedings of July 17, 1856: Congressional Globe, 34—1, p. 1657.] THE CONSTRUCTION AND COST OF PUBLIC BUILDINGS. Mr. Barksdale. I ask the unanimous consent of the House to present a resolution for the purpose of obtaining information only. The resolution was read, and is as follows: [Identical with the letter of July 3, 1856, signed by Messrs. Ball, Puryear, Todd, and Roberts, addressed to Hon. Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War.] Mr. Ball. I wish to make a single remark in reference to this matter. I do not propose to interpose any objection to the adoption of the resolution; but T see that they are the same inquiries which were propounded to the Secretary of War, by the Committee on the Public Buildings and Grounds, and which he declined to answer. I wish to ask my friend from Mississippi, whether he offers this resolution on his own motion, or upon consultation with the Secretary of War? Mr. Barksdale. I do not know that I am under any obligation whatever to inform the gentleman from Ohio whether I have consulted the Secretary of War in relation to this resolution or not. But, waiving my right not to do so, I tell the gentleman candidly, that I have consulted the Secretary of War, and he is anxious that the House and the country shall have the information called for by this resolution; that lie declined giving it to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, because a call had been made on the President, for information on this subject, before the date of the letter addressed to him by that committee. He did not deem it proper to give to the committee information which the House did not have. Hence, sir, I have offered this resolution; and if the gentleman really wishes the information, why, sir, he can get it in the only legitimate way, in my opinion — by a resolution of this House, calling upon the President for it. No objection being made, the resolution was received, and agreed to. [House of Representatives, Ex. Doc. No. 138, 34th Congress, 1st Session. Message from the President of the United States, communicating a report in regard to the construction of the Capitol and Post Office Extension. August 7,1856. — Referred to the Select Committee on Expenditures connected with the Public Buildings.] Executive Office, Washington, August 4, 1856. To the House of Representatives of the United States: I herewith lay before the House of Representatives a report of the Secretary of War in reply to a resolution of the House requesting “ information in regard to the construction of the Capitol and Post Office extension.” Franklin Pierce. War Department, Washington, August 2, 1856. Sir: I have the honor herewith to transmit a report of the officer in charge of the construction of the Capitol and Post Office extension, on the questions presented by the resolution of the House of Representatives of July 17, 1856, which was referred by you to this department. It will be seen that considerable expense has been incurred for the adornment of the Capitol, and in giving to the doors and windows greater durability and beauty than those of the main building. It was thought to be in accordance with a just The Extensions. 651 national pride that the finish of the Capitol of the United States should be equal to the highest reach of art in our day, and that its durability might typify the perpe- tuity which the framers of the constitution designed our Union should possess. If these ends justify the expenditure which has been incurred, it is believed that the manner in which the work has been conducted must be approved. But if, in pro- ceeding on that supposition, I have been mistaken, I have only to say that the adop- tion by Congress of the most ornamental style of architecture and costly material of construction has led to the misapprehension. In my annual report of December last, reference was made to the costly style of internal finish which had been introduced in the construction of the Capitol exten- sion, and the following language was employed: “These and other contemplated improvements, not included in the original plan and estimate, may be introduced to a greater or less extent as Congress may provide. ’ ’ By this expression it was intended to submit to Congress the question whether the finish of the building should proceed after the manner of those portions of the work which had been done and were sub- mitted for inspection, or whether the future expenditures should be reduced by adopting the lower style of finish, for which the original estimate was made. An answer to the resolution of the House of Representatives of May 26, which was also referred by you to this department, is in the course of preparation, and will soon be furnished. The reply has been delayed by the serious and protracted illness of the officer in charge of the work, and by the labor of compiling and copying the vast amount of detailed information which a reply to some of the questions in the resolution required. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Jeff’n Davis, Secretary of War. To the President. U. S. Capitol Extension and Washington Aqueduct Office, July 28 , 1856. My Dear Sir: I return the resolutions of the House of Representatives of July 17, 1856, requesting the President of the United States to communicate certain infor- mation in regard to the construction of the Capitol and Post Office extension; which resolutions were by you referred to me for a report. The questions will be found below, with the information called for by each of them, as given by the records of this office. 1. The cost of marble workmanship of windows of principal story, north and south fronts, viz: The cost of the two jambs with brackets, the ornamental lintel which rests on the brackets, the pedimental head and the inside jambs, and heads of each window, including setting, handling, superintendence, and every expense? 2 jambs, with brackets, cut in the solid $612 00 1 enriched entablature, or ornamental lintel, cut in the solid 361 31 1 pediment-head, cut in the solid 116 66 2 inner jambs and one head 37. 50 1 sub-sill 8. 00 There is some ashlar which, in the windows as constructed, is cut from the same block as the pediment. The cost of cutting this is increased by 5. 35 Total cost of workmanship of window as constructed 1, 140. 82 2. The average cost of the marble of each window as above described, and the probable amount that said windows would have cost if they had been executed according to the specifications attached to Provost, Winter, & Co’s contract? 652 Documentary History of the Capitol . Cost of marble for the windows. 2 jambs with brackets, 86-^ cubic feet, at $1.98 _ $170. 61 1 enriched entablature or ornamental lintel, 411 cubic feet, at $1.98 81. 51 1 pediment-head, to be cut in the solid, with ashlar attached, 112j4 cubic feet, at $1.98 223.57 2 inner jambs and 1 head, 60 x v cubic feet, at $1.98. 119. 95 1 sub-sill, 4 cubic feet, at 65 cents 2. 60 598. 24 Deduct for ashlar attached to top of pediment, not being properly part of the window-dressing, 40 feet, at $1.98'. 79. 20 Cost of marble for windows as constructed 519. 04 Workmanship 1,140.82 Making total cost of window, for work and materials, including setting, handling, superintendence, and every expense 1, 659. 86 The workmanship of the marble-dressings for the principal story windows, as originally designed, were contracted for by Messrs. Provost, Winter, &Co. at 280.00 The marble would have cost for jambs, brackets, inner jambs, and lintel, 187}^ cubic feet, at $1.98 $372. 07 Tympanum separate from pediment, 424 cubic feet, at $1.98 84. 15 2 pieces raking cornice, 42f cubic feet, at $1.98 83. 82 1 sub-sill, 4 cubic feet, at 65 cents 2. 60 542. 66 Total cost of window as originally designed 822. 64 From this statement, it appears that these windows have been doubled in cost. The increase is not, so much due to any alteration in design, as to an alteration in the mode of construction. By the use of stone in fewer and larger blocks, the workmanship is very much increased, while the cost of the stone is slightly diminished. The specifications provided for the construction of the window dressings in many places with numerous joints, as in the old building, whose constructive details few would now take as models. These joints on the projecting mouldings of the window dressings would be much exposed to the action of the weather, and the durability of these important parts of the building could be so much increased by a different construction, that I did not hesitate to adopt it. The cost is about doubled; the duration of the work is, I presume, at least quadrupled. While the window-sills and lintels of the old building, now only forty or fifty years old, are many of them broken, and the walls generally defaced by numerous cracks, the walls of the superstructure of the new wings, which now bear nearly the whole weight to which they will be subjected, show no signs of cracking; not a stone in them has yet broken. The foundation upon which they rest is of clay, always somewhat compressible; and in the foundation-walls, which were not built under my superintendence, the motar used does not appear, from my examinations, to be as good as I could wish — probably from a defect in the cement obtained by contract from the lowest bidder. There has been a gradual and general settlement in the cellar walls — greatest at the west front, where the foundation-wall is deepest; but the careful and solid con- struction of the superstructure, and the precautions taken by using large blocks of marble, and great care in bonding them together, have prevented any evil conse- quences arising from this settlement. The Extensions. 653 The joint resolution of Congress passed 20th February, 1854, gives express author- ity for making the necessary changes in the contracts, to enable the President to procure the marble in larger blocks than originally intended, and the construction of the building has been improved accordingly. If the object of Congress was to provide accommodations at the least expense, a plain brick building would have been the most appropriate. As they directed the erection of a white marble building, in the highest and richest style of architecture, I have supposed that the best and most durable construction was desirable. 3. The cost of marble workmanship of each of the east front doors, embracing the two jambs, with brackets, the ornamental lintel which rests on the brackets, the cornice, and all expenses of superintendence, exclusive only of the sculptured figures intended to be placed on the top? Two moulded plinths $77. 06 Two jambs, with brackets 2,467. 34 One enriched lintel 187.16 One architrave 222. 50 One cornice 1,122.33 4, 076. 39 4. What has been the additional cost of the materials in consequence of the altera- tion of the design of the said front doors from that mentioned in the contract of Provost, Winter, & Co.? None. 5. What will be the cost of the plaster models for the sculpture on top of each front door? Who is making them? Are they completed, and also what will be the cost of the marble sculpture to be cut from them? They have been ordered from Mr. Crawford. The design and the plaster models of the two figures for the east front door of north wing have been completed. Those for the door of south wing are unfinished. As the agreement of Mr. Craw- ford was to make the design and models for one pediment and the corresponding door for a fixed sum — $20,000 — I cannot specify exactly the sum applicable to these figures. There are in the pediment twelve figures and their accessories; over the door there are two. Considering the relative size and difficulty of modelling the dif- ferent figures, I estimate the price of the two for the door at $1,000 each. For two $2, 000. 00 The estimated cost of marble will be $130 each 260. 00 Cutting in marble, $1,800 each 3, 600. 00 Freight from Rome to Washington on models or on statues if executed in Rome, each $200 400. 00 Total cost of the two figures 6, 260. 00 or $3, 130 each. Those for the door of south wing will cost the same. 6. What will the plaster models for the east pediment cost, and what will be the cost of cutting them in marble? For the design and plaster models of the pediment and figures over the door Mr. Crawford has been paid $20,000; of which sum there is applicable to the pedi- ment $18, 000. 00 Cost of freight from Rome 2, 800. 00 Marble 1, 960. 00 Cutting 23, 000. 00 Estimated cost of raising the statues to their place 500. 00 Total estimated cost of sculpture of east pediment, 12 figures, and the accessories in place 46, 260. 00 654 Documentary .History of the Capitol. This will not probably be considered very extravagant in view of the cost of the sculpture about the old Capitol. The Peace and War, under the eastern portico — single figures — cost $10,000 each. The group of Columbus, on the blocking of the steps, cost $20,000, besides the cost of transportation from Italy to this country, which was $4,000; making its cost as delivered, $24,000. 7. H( >w much are the plaster casts for the bronze front door to cost, and how much will be the cost of the doors to be executed from them? The design and plaster cast will cost $6, 000. 00 The door, if cast and chased in the Munich foundry 7, '000. 00 Freight, say 200. 00 Total 13, 200. 00 If executed in this country, the cost of the bronze will probably be somewhat greater. It is intended to have one executed at Munich, the first foundry in the world, and the other in this country. 8. Are any of the inner doors to be made of bronze? If so, which doors, and how much is the modelling to cost; and how much the work to be executed from the models? The door which will separate the old representative chamber from the corri- dor of entrance into the south wing and the new representative chamber will be of bronze. It will bear bas-reliefs, like the outside doors, of subjects from American history, and is a larger door. The design and modelling will cost $8,000 The bronze work is estimated at 6, 416 14,416 These doors will be executed in the highest style of art. They could be made at somewhat less cost, if the sculpture were executed in bronze and screwed to wooden frames, as is the case in the doors of the Walhalla and Glyptothik, in Munich, and the Madeleine, in Paris. Those of the Baptistry, at Florence, by Ghibuti, the most perfect and the most celebrated in the world, are entirely of bronze; and it is proposed to follow this, the most perfect example. 9. How much have the models for the Indian boy and girl cost? What has been the cost of the marble statues cut from them? and where are these statues to be placed? The models have been made by a modeller, who was employed to prepare models from the drawings of the foliage, capitals, and other architectural enrichments of the building, to be placed before the stone-cutters as guides in carving the marble. The figures referred to, and one other, have been modelled in the intervals of his other work, and it is not possible to state the exact time employed upon them and their cost. He would have been still under pay had he not modelled these figures, and yet he has done all the work required in his department. I find that, to persons assisting him upon these models, of which there are three, there has been paid $161.50, or each $53.83 The cost of roughing out and pointing the kneeling figure with the shell, was 316 00 It has been finished by the artist in the intervals of his work of model- ling ornaments; and the whole real cost to the United States, for work- manship, may be set down at 369 83 To this should be added the cost of the block of marble, which I estimate at, 60 00 Making the total probable cost 429 83 The Extensions. 655 I may observe that, this work being done at odd times, and in the intervals of the other, which was considered the important work for which the artist was employed, there has not been the same particular account of it kept as of the rest of the work of the Capitol extension. The figures are intended to be placed on the landings of the principal stairways, as fountains or hydrants to supply drinking water. They are decorative figures, thought to be appropriate to this purpose, and not very costly. A gaudy brass hydrant and water-cooler might have cost more money. 10. What is the total amount already agreed to be paid for plaster models to Mr. Crawford, at Rome? what the amount to be paid to Mr. Powers? and if agreements have been made with other sculptors, to what amount, what for, and where are such models to be executed? Mr. Crawford has been paid for the design and models of the east pediment, north wing, and of the figures to go over the east door of that, wing, four- teen figures and accessories $20, 000 He is to receive for the design and models of the eastern door, north wing . 6, 000 Eastern door, south wing 6, 000 Design and model to crown the new dome of the Capitol 3, 000 Total, for fifteen figures and two doors 35, 000 Mr. Randolph Rodgers is to receive for the design and model of one large door 8, 000 The model will be executed in Italy, the casting in this country. Mr. Butti is to receive for the design and model of a mantel for the Senate receiving room 500 It is to be executed in bronze and marble here. No agreement has been made with Mr. Powers, because, when written to, at the same time with Mr. Crawford, and in the same terms, inviting him to present designs and estimates for the decoration of the east pediment and door of the north wing, as Mr. Crawford was invited to present them for the south wing, he declined, because, as he writes to me, ‘ 1 1 have not time to prepare designs for the decoration of our Capitol buildings, even if it were a desirable object with me to propose for a commis- sion from the government of my country.” I much regretted this determination, and made an effort at a subsequent period to induce him to reconsider it, but was unsuccessful. Is any sculpture to be introduced in the extension of the Post Office building? If so, what is the character? how much is it to cost? was it on the original design of the architect adopted by Congress? and if not, by what authority of law has it been introduced? The principal gateway into the Post Office building is an arch, in the ordinary form of triumphal arches; and the spandrils and key-stone will be decorated with sculpture, in the usual style of such principal entrances. The design embraces a mask of Fidelity with the usual emblems on the key-stone, and winged figures in the spandrils, representing Steam and Electricity, as the genii of the railroad and telegraph. They are nearly completed in marble. They are smaller than life size. The char- acter and expression are good. They will cost, completed, $3,000. The original design of the architect, adopted by Congress, embraces an elevation of this front, in which the gateway is shown upon a small scale. The spandrils of the arch contain a few lines indicating a carved enrichment, but not in such detail as to be considered a studied design. The same elevation shows no sash to the windows. In constructing such a build- ing, it is always understood that the details, which cannot be expressed on the 656 Documentary History of the Capitol. original small designs, are to be studied and elaborated so as to correspond with the general style of the architecture. A marble edifice of the extent of the Post Office building in the most decorated style of architecture, (the Corinthian,) would nowhere be constructed with a plainer doorway than that designed and nearly completed for this one, unless from the want of skilful workmen. The authority of law for it is the appropriation for erecting the building, which is understood as directing the details to be carried out in a manner corresponding with the general richness of the architecture. If nothing were to be put in the building not on the plans, it would be necessary to build it without floors, hinges, locks, window-sash, or roof. The scratch of a pen upon an architectural elevation may indicate work which, executed in marble from detailed studies, may cost ten thou- sand dollars. All of which is respectfully submitted by your obedient servant, Hon. Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War. M. C. Meigs, Captain of Engineers in charge of Capitol Extension and Post Office Extension. [Senate Ex. Doe. No. 100. 34th Congress, 1st Session. Letter from the Secretary of War, respecting the occupation of certain rooms in the North Wing of the Extension of the Capitol. August 6, 1856.— Read, ordered to lie on the table and be printed.] War Department, Washington, August 4, 1856. Sir: I have the honor to inform you that Captain Meigs has reported that rooms Nos. 4 and 11 in the basement of the north wing of the Capitol extension are so far finished as to be available for temporary occupation. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Jeff’n Davis, Secretary of War. Hon. J. D. Bright, President pro tem. of the Senate. [Senate proceedings of Aug. 6, 1856: Senate Journal, 34 — 1, p. 528. On motion by Mr. Collamer, Ordered, That the President pro tempore be authorized to assign for the use of com- mittees the two rooms in t he north extension of the Capitol reported by the Secretary of War as ready for use. [House of Representatives. Ex. Doc. No. 144. 34th Congress, 1st Session. Message from the Presi- dent of the United States, transmitting a report from Captain Meigs, stating that the sum of seven hundred and fifty thousand dollars will be necessary for the prosecution of the Capitol Extension. August 15, 1856. — Referred to the Committee of IVays and Means.] To the House of Representatives: I transmit herewith a communication from the Secretary of War, enclosing a report from Captain M. C. Meigs, stating that the sum of seven hundred and fifty thousand dollars will be necessary for the prosecution of the capital extension until the close of the next session of Congress, and recommend that that amount may be appropriated. Franklin Pierce. Washington, August IS, 1856. The Extensions. 657 War Department, Washington, August 12, 1856. Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a communication from Captain M. C. Meigs, in charge of the capitol extension, stating that an appropriation of seven hun- dred and fifty thousand dollars will be necessary for the prosecution of that work until the close of the next session of Congress, and I have to recommend that the same be asked for. In this report Captain Meigs takes occasion to explain the causes of the increase in the cost of the building over the estimate made before the work was placed in charge of this department. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Jeff’n Davis, Secretary of War. The President of TnE United States. U. S. Capitol Extension and Washington Aqueduct Office, August 11, 1856 My Dear Sir: I have carefully estimated the cost of completing the capitol exten- sion, and I find that it will amount to $2,835,183 34. This is the first estimate I have been called upon to make for this building; and it so very far exceeds the original estimates, and what I should, a year ago, have supposed to be the probable cost of the building, that I desire to accompany it with some remarks upon my connection with the work. The original estimate for the work was presented to Congress in the report of the architect, under date of 23d December, 1851. It will be found in the Senate execu- tive document No. 52, 1st session 32d Congress. It amounts to $2,675,000. The time required to complete the work was estimated at five years, as follows: Cellars to be finished and basement story constructed and vaulted during the season of 1852. In the next year, 1853, the exterior walls to be raised to their entire height, and the principal story to be vaulted. In the third year, 1854, the upper story to be vaulted, and the building put under roof; after which it would take two years, 1855, 1856, to build the porticos, finish and furnish the interior, and complete the teraces and grounds. I was placed in charge of this work on the 4th April, 1853, at which time the cellars were arched, and some small portion of the marble work of the basement story was in place. Since then, I believe, there has been no lack of energy in prose- cuting the work, and we find ourselves in the middle of the fifth year, with the main buildings of the wings nearly roofed in, but the cornice not finished, and the porticos and connecting corridors not begun. Having confidence that the original estimate was carefully made, I had hoped, by economy in the application of labor to those parts of the work not let by contract, by the use of machinery wherever it could be properly applied, and by purchasing all materials from the most reputable and largest dealers, and at the lowest prices, to be able to complete the building in a better and more durable style of construction than the printed specifications and contracts seemed to contemplate, and yet within the original estimate of the architect. The original estimate contemplated the finishing of the interior in the style of the old building — whitewashed walls, brick floors, combustible and decaying window dressings and door frames, and roofs of wood, plaster ceilings to the legislative halls, &c. The substitution for the brick floors of encaustic tile floors, both beautiful and durable, such as are used in the British Parliament house, the St. George’s Hall, and assize courts, Liverpool, and, indeed, in all considerable buildings lately erected in H. Rep. 646 42 658 Documentary History of the Capitol. Great Britain; that of iron door and window dressings for wood, and that of paint, on the interior walls for whitewash, were submitted to Congress in your last annual report. The substitution of a fire-proof iron roof and ceiling for the combustible wooden structures at first contemplated, though considerably increasing the cost of the build- ing, were so obviously proper, after the burning of the library and the construction of the iron library ceiling and roof, that it was done without any special reference of the question to Congress. A greater thickness of marble for the exterior facing than provided for in the orig- inal contracts, and the procuring of the columns with monolithic shafts, was, upon reference to Congress, authorized by the joint resolution of February 20, 1854. Yet all these changes will not be sufficient to account for the excess of the present over the original estimate. The architect, I understand, in making that, estimate, was guided in a great degree by the bids for the marble work. The variations in these bids, eighteen in number, may cast a shade of doubt upon the value of estimates made, not by engineers or architects, scientific and educated men, but by the practical men. These gentlemen had every reason to use the greatest care in making their esti- mates; they pledged themselves, under severe penalties, to execute the work for the sums named in their respective bids, if the contracts should be awarded to them. Ruin stared them in the face if they estimated too low — the loss of the large profits of so great a contract, if they estimated so high as to be under-bid. The table which follows shows that, under these circumstances, their bids for marble and the marble work of the exterior, by regular gradations, varied from $1,697,000 down to $774,000. Name of bidder. Exterior mar- ble work. Remarks. *1, 097, 069. 50 1.431.000. 00 1.397.630.00 1. 371. 000. 00 1.277.841.00 1. 250. 000. 00 1.233. 880. 00 1. 232. 000. 00 1. 180. 000. 00 1, 157, 000. 00 1. 008. 052. 00 987. 640. 00 978. 214. 00 950, 000. 00 Hastings. Stockbridge. Stockbridge, Egremont, &c. West Chester. Egremont, Stockbridge, East Chester, and Egremont. Egremont. Stockbridge. East Chester, Hastings, and New York. East Chester. East Chester. Near Stockbridge. Near Stockbridge. Baltimore. L. Stoddard Berry & Mohun The average difference between each of the eighteen bidders being about $50,000, and the difference between the highest and the lowest $923,000 — the highest being more than double the lowest. The contract, as advertised, was not given to any one bidder. The best marble offered was not offered by the lowest bidder for marble and workmanship combined, but this marble was wisely adopted. The lowest bidders, Provost, Winter & Co., claimed that, though their material was rejected, they were entitled to the contract for work; and upon a schedule of prices submitted by them as those which had formed the basis of their bid of $773,918, for material and work for the exterior, a contract was made with them for the marble work of both exterior and interior. All this was done before the work was placed under your direction, and the con- tracts had run from eight to fourteen months when you charged me with the direc- tion of the work. I now find that the workmanship of the ten porticos and steps, yet untouched, will The Extensions. 659 cost $51,126, or five-sevenths of the sum for which Messrs. Provost, Winter & Co. offered to furnish the marble and do the marble work of the whole exterior of the building. Two changes which have been made in the porticos embrace the substitution of pediments for the horizontal blocking and balustrade over the two eastern projec- tions — a very small alteration. The substitution of marble for wooden ceilings, and the addition of four columns to the ninety-six of the original design, made necessary by the adoption of marble instead of wooden ceilings, including the marble, the por- ticos cost over one million of dollars at contract prices. I have made these remarks as due to myself, and to relieve myself from all respon- sibility for any estimate which I did not make. For any estimate made by myself I am willing to be held responsible, but 1 am not to be held responsible for those of others. I have labored faithfully and diligently to construct this building in such a man- ner that it would last for ages, as a creditable monument of the state of the arts at this time in this country. I have spared no labor to secure economy in its administration, faithfulness in the agents employed, and justice and kindness to the mechanics and laboring men by whose hands it has been raised. In these endeavors I have ever been supported by the confidence which I have received from yourself and from the President. The work is now so far advanced, and the quarries are in such a state, that a very large force may be employed in hurrying it towards completion. The expenditures for the last few months have been between $80,000 and $90,000 monthly, and the sum granted in order to carry on the work with vigor till Congress can act again upon the appropriation should not be less than $750,000. The present appropriation will be exhausted by the end of the present month. I respectfully recommend that the appropriate committee be requested to propose the above appropriation, as there was none asked in the ordinary annual estimates, for the reason that the balance then on hand ($747,918.80) was so large that I advised that the making the ordinary annual estimate should be delayed until a further progress of the work would enable me to make a more accurate estimate of the cost of completion. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Hon. Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War. M. C. Meigs, Captain of Engineers, in charge. [From the “Act making- Appropriations for certain Civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and fifty-seven,” approved Aug. 18, 185C. (Stats, at Large, v. 11, 86.)] For continuing the Capitol extension, seven hundred and fifty thousand dollars. [From the “Act making Appropriations for the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial Expenses of Government for the Year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and fifty-seven,” approved Aug. 18, 1856. (Stats, at Large, v. 11, 104.)] For furniture for committee-rooms in the south wing of the extension of the Capitol, ten thousand dollars. Documentary History of the Capitol. 660 [Annual report of Capt. M. C. Meigs, in charge of the Capitol Extension, November, 1856. (34—3, Senate Ex. Doc. No. 5, v. 2, p. 217. )] Office of the Extension of the Capitol, Washington city, November, 1856. Dear Sir: I have the honor to report the progress during the past year of the works of the extension of the United States Capitol. At the date of my last annual report, the marble facings of the wings had been carried up to the average level of the attic window-sills, a few pilaster capitals of the exterior had been set, but some parts of the work were not above the level of the windows of the principal story, and gaps, particularly in the eastern fronts, were unfilled. None of the entablature had been set. The roof arches of the attic had been begun, and part of the iron roof trusses of the Representative hall had been set up. During the past year, the marble work has been levelled up to the top of the archi- trave. Much of the frieze and lower course of cornice has been set, and upon the north and south fronts of the south wing and upon the south front of the north wing a considerable portion of the cornice has been finished, and the blocking course of the balustrade has been begun. A large quantity of work has been cut for the connecting corridors, but it is con- sidered better not to begin the erection of these corridors until next spring, when it is hoped that during the long recess, the materials being prepared, they can be put up without interfering with the convenience of Congress. The marble columns of the corridor in the basement of the south wing have been all set, and the cast-iron entablature and ceiling completed. The marble work of the vestibule of the Senate has been nearly all cut, and the workmen are now engaged in completing this apartment. The pilasters and their capitals, with the architrave resting upon them, are in place. The setting of the bases of the columns is begun. This work will he finished in a few weeks. The steps of the lower flight of one of the principal and four of the private stairs of the north wing have been set, but the want of the large platforms, ordered more than a year since, has interrupted the work. There are a number of steps cut, which will be set as soon as the platforms, daily expected, reach here and are worked. Some of the polished marble panelling, hand-rail, and balusters of the principal stairs have been prepared. Capitals for the columns of the House vestibule, and for the Senate retiring-room, have been carved. A large quantity of polished marble skirting has been set in the different com- mittee rooms and corridors of the building. All the mantelpieces for the basement are finished, and most of them have been set. A number are prepared for the rooms of the principal story. These mantels are made from original designs. Some of them are of Italian mar- ble, and others of native colored marbles. None of the Vermont marble, or of the Frederick county (Maryland) marble, referred to in my last report, has yet been received. The beautiful variegated Frederick county marble does not exist in quantities suf- ficient to justify the attempt to quarry it, and the proprietors of the Vermont quar- ries have not yet succeeded in filling the order given more than a year since. As I write this, I hear from them that they have succeeded in quarrying a few blocks of a suitable size, and are about to forward them to the Capitol. Messrs. Rice, Baird & Heebuer had delivered, under their contract for the marble of the exterior, at the date of my last annual report, 184,433 cubic feet of marble, costing $287,851.40. There had also been purchased of them, for the work of the interior and for the statuary of the pediment, not included in their contract, 8,166 cubic feet, costing $13,596.95. The Extensions. 661 There had also been received 2,255 cubic feet of Tennessee marble for the stair- ways, and 1,727 cubic feet of Italian marble. During the year ending 30th Septem- ber, 1855, the whole quantity received was 71,954 cubic feet, costing $131,015.16. During the year ending 30th September, 1856, the whole quantity received is 76,286 cubic feet, costing $169,055.12. Of this, 54,018 cubic feet, costing $97,082.60, was delivered under the contract of Rice, Baird & Heebuer. Of the remaining 22,268 cubic feet (costing $71,973.52) 3,892J feet are Lee marble, and 14,911 feet are Italian marble for interior work. The remainder is colored marble, principally Tennessee, of which 2,925 feet, costing $20,474.43, have been received during the year. The work done under the contract of Messrs. Provost, Winter & Co., during the year ending 30th September, 1856, has amounted to $254,981.55. Brickwork. — This has consisted in completing all the floor and roof arches of the wings, building the cross-walls to support the metal roof over the attic ceiling arches, backing up the marble in the exterior walls, preparing foundations for the marble columns, setting mantels, building air-ducts in the cellars, and levelling up the floors to receive the tile pavements. Six stairways of granite, four desending from the basement to the cellars, and two leading from the attic to the roof, have been built during the year. There have been received during the year 569,786 bricks, in addition to 1,662,841 which were on hand at the time of my last annual report, of which 2,012,627 have been laid in the work during the past year, and there are now on hand 220,000. The whole number of bricks laid in the building, thus far, is 18,346,658. Plastering . — Many rooms in all the stories and many of the corridors have received the first coats of plaster. The last coat it is better to reserve until the final finishing and decoration of the rooms is to be begun. Floors . — Considerable progress has been made in laying the tile floors; designs of many floors in the principal story have been prepared, and the manufacture ordered. Those laid thus far are confined to the basement story. The store-rooms of the south wing, and the exterior ranges of committee-rooms of the basement of both wings, are nearly all floored. Much of this work, however, remains to be done. The manufacturer and patentee of the chalcedon, referred to in my last report as a beautiful material for flooring, has failed to fill the order for two small pavements given to him to test its fitness and his ability to make it in quantity. Roof . — The whole of the two wings have been covered with metallic or glass roofing during the year. The covering is of corrugated copper, secured to iron purlins. Over the arches of the committee-rooms, the purlins rest upon thin brick walls. The spaces between these walls will be used as store-rooms. Over the Senate chamber iron trusses of 83J feet span, and over the Representative chain berof 96 feet span, support the corrugated copper covering and the glass skylights. The stairways will be roofed with glass supported on iron trusses of 30 feet span, of simple and light construction, which are in place already. A portion of the skylight of the Senate is yet unglazed, and the glass for the stair- ways has not yet been received, though expected shortly. It is being manufactured in this country, and the delays and accidents incident to a new manufacture have interfered with its delivery at the time agreed upon. Iron-work . — The ceilings of the Senate and Representative chambers of cast iron have been completed. They are very rich in design and of light construction. They are supported by the iron truss frames of the roof. Those for the members’ retiring- room and the rooms under the Mouse and Senate are in progress. The gallery fronts of both House and Senate are being made of east iron. Parts of them have just been shipped from the manufactory in New York, and will be here in a few days. Documentary History of the Capitol. 662 The door frames throughout the building are of cast iron. Those of the basement are nearly all in place. Those for the other stories are in hand, but have not yet been delivered. The window-casings of all the stories are also of cast iron. All those for the base- ment and many in the principal story are set. Those for the attic are now being delivered. Carpentry . — The window frames of all the windows have been completed and set. The sash of the lower and principal stories are glazed and set, and part of the sash of the attic is completed. The making and putting up of centring and scaffolding, making of doors and window frames and sash, have employed during the year a large force of carpenters. Sculpture . — The models of the Pioneer and the America for the pediment, both colossal, have been received during the year; the marble for the Pioneer is here, and that for the America is on its way from the quarry. The remainder of the models have arrived in New York, but have not yet reached Washington. The Mechanic has been completed in marble — the group of Youth will be finished this month. The Commerce, Instruction, and War are well advanced in the marble. The bronze work for the doors of the galleries of the legislative halls is well advanced. Painting . — The room of the Committee on Agriculture, in the south wing, has been painted in fresco with appropriate subjects. The same style of decoration, so far as possible, is being carried out in other rooms. In the room of the Judiciary Committee of the Senate the ceiling has been painted in distemper, with four small paintings in fresco in the arches. The walls have been colored in encaustic, reserving four spaces for fresco paintings. This room is tem- porarily occupied by the Court of Claims. The room of the Committee on Foreign Relations has been completed, with the exception of four spaces reserved for fresco paintings. The ceiling here is distemper, the wall encaustic. In the Post Office and Post Roads Committee room the ceiling only is finished. It is in distemper. This room is now occupied by the superintendent of the folding- room as a store-room for books. The Senate Naval Committee room is being painted, the ceiling in distemper and fresco, the walls in oil. The decoration of this room is in the style derived from the remains of ancient painting in the baths of Titus and the excavations of Pompeii. Panels' on the walls are being filled with pictures of our naval battles. The room of the Committee on Commerce is also in hand. In the south wing the decorators are at work upon the rooms of the Committees on Public Lands and Territories. The iron ceiling of the Representative hall is being painted and decorated. The beams and panels are being painted with positive colors, and the mouldings gener- ally of the ceiling and cornice enriched with gold and bronze, relieved by strong colors. The effect, as far as the work has progressed, is very rich and magnificent. Warming . — The wrought-iron pipes for heating the building are nearly all deliv- ered, and workmen are now employed in putting them together in coils, and in lay- ing the brick air-ducts for the supply of air to the various coils, and through them to the committee-rooms. The boilers will be placed outside the wings, in vaults to be constructed under the pavement between the new and old buildings. The plans for these vaults are arranged, but, as the boilers cannot be completed before next spring, it is not intended to commence their construction before the adjournment of Congress. They The Extensions. 663 could not have been commenced before this time without interfering with the prog- ress of the marble-work of the wings. The following list shows the labor applied during the year: * * * CASH ACCOUNT. Amount available 30th September, 1855 $747, 918. 80 Amount appropriated 1st August, 1856 750,000.00 1,497,918. 80 Amount in treasury undrawn 30th September, 1856 $635, 000. 00 Deposited with Treasurer of the United States at Wash- ington, and assistant treasurers at New York and Phila- delphia, subject to checks of superintendent, on 30th April, 1856 71, 537. 51 Cash in hand for pay-roll 158. 40 Amount available 30th September, 1856 $706, 695. 91 Amount expended in year ending 30th September, 1856 791, 222. 89 The following appropriations have been made for the extension of the Capitol, viz: Appropriation of 30th September, 1850 $100, 000. 00 Joint resolution of 14th April, 1852 500,000.00 Deficiency bill for year ending 30th June, 1853 400, 000. 00 General appropriation bill for year ending 30th June, 1854 600, 000. 00 General appropriation bill for year ending 30th June, 1855 750, 000. 00 General appropriation bill for year ending 30th June, 1856 325, 000. 00 General appropriation bill for year ending 30th June, 1857 750, 000. 00 Total appropriated 3, 425, 000. 00 Of which there has been expended to 30th September, 1856 2, 718, 304. 09 Leaving available for the fiscal year ending 30th June, 1857 706, 695. 91 Amount required for the service of the year ending 30th June, 1858. . . 900, 000. 00 All of which is respectfully submitted by your obedient servant, M. C. Meigs, Captain of Engineers, in charge. Hon. Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War. [From the annual report of Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War, Dec. 1, 1856. (31 — 3, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, v. 2, p. 23.)] The construction of the Capitol extension has advanced as rapidly as the supply of marble would permit. The building is roofed in, the ceilings of the Representatives and of the Senate Chamber are completed, and the interior finish is begun. Several committee rooms have been finished, and others, though not yet painted, have been temporarily occupied by committees, in consequence of the deficiency of room in the old building. The decoration of these rooms was thus deferred, to be resumed during the recess of Congress. The vast quantity of marble for the porticoes, in which there are a hundred col- umns, will require at least two seasons for its delivery; but the occupation of the Documentary History of the Capitol. 664 building need not be delayed until the completion of these porticoes. As soon as the main body of the wings is completed, which, including the ventilating and heat- ing apparatus, it is expected will be accomplished during the next summer, the building may Ire occupied. In my last annual report, and in communications since made in answer to resolu- tions of Congress, it was announced that specimens of painting and decoration, of encaustic tile flooring, of cast iron window and door casings, had been prepared for the inspection of Congress, and that other improvements on the original plan were contemplated. It was then stated, that if this higher style of finish was adopted, the cost of the building must be proportionally increased. And as the original plan and estimate was for the lower style of finish found in the main building, it was deemed proper to submit to Congress for decision the question of changing the style to the higher standard of the present state of architectural skill; and it was suggested that improve- ments might be introduced to a greater or less extent, as Congress might provide. Awaiting the decision of this question, no further appropriation for the Capitol extension was presented in the annual estimates of this Department. During the session, and with the understanding that it was the will of Congress that the higher style of finish should be introduced into the whole building, an estimate for the cur- rent year’s expenditure was transmitted to Congress, and an appropriation was made in accordance with it. I have this year caused estimates to be made on the hypo- thesis that the building is to be completed, both as to material and workmanship, so as to conform throughout to those parts which have already been constructed; and it appears that the additional sum, which will thus be required, is two millions one hundred thousand dollars, of which a portion is asked in the annual estimate for the next fiscal year. [House proceedings of Jan. 5, 1857: Congressional Globe, 34 — 3, p. 232.] UNITED STATES ARCHITECT, ETC. Mr. Valk. I ask the unanimous consent of the House for leave to introduce the following resolution: Resolved, That the President of the United States be, and is hereby, requested to inform this House by what authority a Government architect is employed and paid for designing and erecting all public buildings, and also for placing said buildings under the supervision of military engineers. Mr. Keitt. I object. Mr. Valk. I move to suspend the rules. The rules were suspended, (two thirds voting in favor thereof, ) and the resolution was then adopted. [House of Representatives. Ex. Doc., No. 47, 34th Congress, 3d Session. Government Architect. Message from the President of the United States, transmitting reports from the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of War, in answer to a resolution of the House asking by what authority a government architect is employed, &c. January 22, 1867. — Referred to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds.] To the House of Representatives: In response to a resolution of January 5, 1857, requesting the President to inform the House of Representatives “by w 7 hat authority a government architect is employed and paid for designing and erecting all public buildings, and also for placing said buildings under the superv.sion of military engineers,” I submit the accompanying reports from the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of War. Franklin Pierce. W ashington, January 20 , 1857. * * * The Extensions. 6(35 War Department, January 7, 1857. Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the resolution of the House of Representatives this day referred by you and herewith enclosed. Two points are presented by the resolution. To the first I reply, that this depart- ment does not employ an architect, as set forth in the resolution. Under the pro- visions of the act of September 30, 1850, (civil and diplomatic appropriation,) the President appointed an architect for the extension of the Capitol, and since its con- struction he has been transferred to iny charge, and he has been retained in employ- ment by the same authority, being an exception to the rule in relation to the public buildings constructed under the direction of this department. To the second point I answer: JBy the act of March 3, 1851, (appropriation for light-houses, &c.,) the President is required to have “detailed from the engineer corps of the army, from time to time, such officers as may be necessary to superintend the construction and renovating light-houses.” And by the act of April 10, 1806, article 63, the authority of the President of the United States is recognized to employ military engineers “on any duty beyond the line of their immediate profession.” It is to be remarked that the language at that time employed by Congress was in the form of a restriction against anybody else so detaching an engineer from his ordinary military duties, thus emphatically showing that the authority of the President was at that time unquestioned, and the expediency of its occasional exercise admitted. Indeed, few things would seem to be less controvertible than the right of a government to employ for its own purposes the officers it had specially trained for the construction of great public works. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Jeff’n Davis, Secretary of War. To the President. [Senate proceedings of Jan. 28, 1857: Senate Journal, 34 — 3, p. 136.] The President pro tempore laid before the Senate a letter from the Secretary of War informing the Senate that room No. 11 in the basement story of the north wing of the Capitol extension is finished and ready for occupation; which was read. [From the “Act making Appropriations for certain Civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and fifty-eight,” approved Mar. 3, 1857. (Stats, at Large, v. 11, 226.)] For United States Capitol extension, nine hundred thousand dollars. [Annual report of Capt. M. C. Meigs, in charge of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 30, 1857. (35 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 2 , vol. 2, p. 40.)] REPORT ON CAPITOL EXTENSION, RECONSTRUCTION OF DOME, AND POST OFFICE EXTENSION. Office of the Extension of the Capitol, Washington City, November 30, 1857 . Sir: I have the honor to report the progress during the past year of the works of the extension of the Capitol. The two wings of the extension are roofed in. Portions of the cornice of the exte- rior, and of the blocking course over the cornice, are set. Immediately after the adjournment of Congress, the grounds between the wings and main building was excavated, and the foundations of the boiler-vaults, and of the connecting corridors, and coal passages, were commenced. 666 Documentary History of the Capitol. The holler-vaults, which are very extensive, and which are placed under the ter- races outside of the building, have been arched over; and the boilers, which have been placed in them, are now being fitted for immediate use. Connecting corridors . — Of these the foundations are completed, and the lower stories are built and arched over, and the walls of the principal story have made some progress. It is hoped that in the first week of December the masonry of the attic floor of the south connecting corridor may be completed; thus affording a sheltered passage from the old to the new representative chamber. Vestibules . — The marble columns, ceilings, &c., of the vestibules of the principal stories of both wings have been completed and set. The basement vestibules are finished. A large portion of the interior of the buildings has been finished and prepared for use. floors . — The tile floors throughout the basement story are laid. A few missing tiles, and the floors of the rooms which have been occupied as the offices during the construction of the wmrk, remain to be laid. Part of the floors of the principal story of the south wing have been laid. Those of the clerks’ rooms, on the west front, the floors of the corridors under the gal- leries of the house, and some others, are laid. The tiles for others are here. Stairs . — The private stairs leading to the House of Representatives, and to the Senate Hall, have been completed, except- the hand rail. Upon the principal stairs much progress has been made; but they are yet unfin- ished. Rooms . — Many committee rooms in the north wing have been finished. Some of them are painted and decorated; others are merely plastered. The Hall of Representatives is nearly ready for occupation. The cast iron ceiling is completed and painted. The galleries are ready for the upholsterers. Their cast iron fronts are finished, the floors laid, and the carpet is being fitted. The marble work of the Speaker’s desk, and of those for the clerks and official reporters, is finished and set, and these desks will be ready for use by the meeting of Congress. The desks for the members, and one-half of the chairs, are in the building. The other half of the chairs is daily expected. The ornamental glass for the skylights of the Hall of Representatives has not arrived. It was ordered last spring, and the manufacturers undertook to deliver it- by the 1st of September. They have failed to deliver it to this date; but it is hoped that it will be here by the meeting of Congress. Heating and Ventilation . — Workmen are engaged night and day in fitting the con- nexions of the boilers of the south wing, and in endeavoring to recover time lost in their delivery. The makers of the boilers were one month behind time in delivering them. I hope, however, to be able to light the fires before the meeting of Congress. The ventilating fan, I fear, cannot be completed in time; but the arrangements are such as to ensure a very tolerable action of the heating apparatus without the fan. The heating apparatus of the south wing, with the exception of some connexions about the boilers and pumps, is finished; and all are expected to be in use by the first Monday in December. This apparatus is one of the most extensive and complete in the world. Its arrangement and details have required a vast amount of study, of scientific and mechanical knowledge, and experience, in which I have been ably assisted by the manufacturers, Messrs. Nason & Dodge, and their agents. When completed, and tried practically by a few months working, I hope to have time to make a special report to you upon its construction and principles. It is a work of great interest to all persons engaged in the construction of public buildings in our variable climate. The Extensions. 667 Marble . — The mantels for the building are most of them completed, and in place. They are generally made from native marbles, though for variety some Italian marble has been used. There had been delivered, by Messrs. Rice, Baird & Heebner, on 30th September, 1856, under their contract for marble for the extension, 238,451 cubic feet of marble from the quarries at Lee, Massachusetts, costing 1384,934. The quantity of marble which had been purchased for the interior of the building, not under the contract of Rice, Baird & Heebner, was 30,434 cubic feet, costing 185,569.47, of this a portion was Lee marble, but the greater part Italian and varie- gated marbles for the interior decoration. There have been delivered during the year ending 30th September, 1857, under the contract of Messrs. Rice, Baird & Heebner, 47.783J cubic feet of marble, costing $87,833.13; and of Italian and other marbles, not under this contract, 13,331 cubic feet have been received, at a cost of $50,530. Brick work . — This has consisted principally in the flues under cellar floors for ventilation and heating; for passage of iron pipes, &c. ; in the building of the air chambers, enclosing the heating coils; the air passages under the floor of the Repre- sentative chamber; the backing of the gallery fronts of the same chamber; the com- pletion of some arches of the wings; walls for carrying marble stairs; laying floors of rooms and corridors, and of cellars; and in the arches and walls of the boiler vaults and connecting corridors. There have been received during the year ending 30th September, 1,327,925 bricks, and 1,196,050 have been laid. Plastering . — Many of the rooms and corridors have been finished in plaster, some of them with a plain, rough coat, to receive fresco painting, others highly finished with moulded ornaments, to remain unpainted. Roofs and roof gutters . — The roofs of the wings are closed; but we have been troubled during the year with leakage at the eaves, in consequence of the eave gutters not having been completed. These gutters are of cast iron; the greater part of them are nowin place. They are cast in sections with spigot and faucet joints like that used in cast iron water pipes, but arranged so as to be caulked with hemp gasket and red lead putty from the inside. The gutters of a great building like this are always difficult to make tight, and to them, too generally, the gradual deterioration and decay of the building may be traced. They are exposed to all the extremes of heat and cold, and it is very difficult to make efficient provision for expansion and contraction without leakage. I hope that I have succeeded with these gutters. They are very heavy and difficult castings to make, requiring a constant alteration of patterns; and I have been disappointed in my endeavor to procure them all during the summer. The stairway roofs have all been completed and glazed with f-inch thick rough plate glass. They appear to be perfectly tight. Iron work . — In addition to the ceilings of the House and Senate chambers, which are finished and painted, the ceilings of the rooms under the galleries of the House, of the members’ retiring room, and the fronts of the House galleries have been completed. The fronts of the Senate galleries and the ceilings of the rooms under the Senate galleries are being delivered, and will be erected during the winter. The door frames and window casings and linings throughout the building are of cast iron, and they are nearly all complete and set in the walls. Those for the corridors are here and ready to be set. Carpentry. — Window sash and frames throughout the building are of wood. They are completed, and where the masonry has been prepared for them they have been set. Documentary History of the Capitol. 668 The floor of the House of Representatives, floor and seats of the galleries, book shelves in some of the rooms, doors and shutters generally throughout the building, shops, scaffolds, and other auxiliary works have required a large force of carpenters to be employed throughout the year. Sculpture . — The models for the pediment have all been received, and most of them have been executed in marble. The America, the Indian Chief, and the Hunter are now in hand; the others are completed. Mr. Crawford, who designed and executed the original models of this pediment, has died during the year. His loss will be felt by all those who desire the advance- ment of art in this country. He left some works intended for the Capitol unfinished; but it is a source of satisfaction to all lovers of art that he was able to complete this greatest work of sculpture yet attempted by any American. And the designs and models for his other works intended for the Capitol, I am informed, are in such a state that there will be no difficulty in completing the works in the spirit and with all the beauty of his original conceptions. Niches have been provided above the galleries of the Representative hall and Senate chambers; and I suggest that it would be well to call the attention of Congress to the propriety of making arrangements for filling these niches with commemorative statues of distinguished citizens. Painting . — Several of the committee rooms, of both the north and south wings, have been painted and decorated ; others remain unfinished. The cast iron ceilings of the Representative and Senate chambers have been painted in a very rich and elaborate style, which style it is intended to carry out in the remaining decorations of the rooms. Drainage . — In order to drain the building, a brick sewer about one-half mile in length has been constructed, leading along the western front, connecting with drains under the middle of each wing, into which all the water from the acres of roof and from the wash-stands, water-closets, &c., flows through iron pipes. This sewer empties into the canal to the southwest of the Capitol. It will serve also to drain the grounds, and the streets and squares in that quarter of the city. (las . — Gas pipes have been laid throughout the wings, and gas fixtures prepared for the hall of Representatives and many of the rooms and corridors. A ten-inch main has been laid, connecting with the mains of the gas company, and passing up the street on the south of the Capitol to the eastern front, where it divides into two eight-inch mains, which supply the wings and the old building. Two large station metres have been placed under the connecting corridors, by which the quantity of gas consumed will be registered. When all the lights throughout the building (as may be the case during a night session) are in use, the quantity of gas required will be beyond the ability of the city gas company to supply, without/ interfering with the supply of the city. As this great demand is not constant, but liable to occur suddenly, and sometimes for two or three nights in succession, the gas company cannot provide for it except by providing a separate gasometer, in which a surplus can be stored up to meet this sudden demand. The cost of this gasometer would not be repaid to them by this occasional consumption; and, after investigating the subject, 1 had the honor to report to you that it would, in my opinion, be proper for the government to provide a gas-holder for the use of the Capitol alone. This matter remains unacted upon, and it should, I think, be brought to the attention of Congress at this session. There has been applied during the year ending the 30th of September, 1857, 138,654 days’ work upon the United States pay-rolls, and 81,372 days’ work by those employed by the contractors about the building, in all 220,026 days’ work; which sum is exclu- The Extensions. 669 give of the large forces employed at the marble and granite quarries, and in the various private workshops whose resources have been made available for the building. Cash Account. , Amount available 30th September, 1856 $706,695. 91 Amount appropriated 3d March, 1857 900,000.00 1,606,695. 91 Amount in treasury undrawn 30th September, 1857 $660,000. 00 Deposited with Treasurer of the United States at Washing- ton, and assistant treasurers at New York and Philadel- phia, subject to checks of superintendent, on 30th Sep- tember, 1857 63,906. 44 Cash in hand for pay-roll 280. 60 Amount available 30th September, 1857 724,187. 04 Amount expended in year ending 30th September, 1857 882,508. 87 The following appropriations have been made for the extension of the Capitol, viz: * * * Total appropriated 4, 325, 000. 00 Of which there has been expended to 30th September, 1857 3, 600, 812. 96 Leaving available for the fiscal year ending 30th June, 1857 724, 187. 04 All which is expected to be expended by the 1st of June next. Amount required for the service of the year ending 30th June, 1859 1, 000, 000. 00 All of which is respectfully submitted by your obedient servant, M. C. Meigs, Captain of Engineers, in charge. Hon. J. B. Floyd, Secretary of War. [House of Representatives, Ex. Doc. No. 8. 35th Congress, 1st Session. Hall of the House of Repre- sentatives. Letter from the Secretary of War, stating that the new Hall of the House of Representa- tives is ready for occupation. Dec. 10, 1857. — Referred to the Select Committee heretofore appointed on the subject of the new Hall of the House of Representatives.] War Department, Washington, December 9, 1857. Sir: I have the honor to state that the engineer now in charge of the work has reported to me that the hall of the House of Representatives and the room for the office of the Clerk of the House in the extension of the Capitol of the United States are ready for occupation. In communicating this information, 1 beg leave to say that the rooms aforesaid are now at the disposal of the House. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, John B. Floyd, Secretary of War. Hon. James L. Orr, Speaker of the House of Representatives. [House proceedings of February 9, 1858: Congressional Globe, 35 — 1, p. 638.] CAPITOL BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS. Mr. Taylor, of New York, in pursuance of previous notice, introduced a bill to create a commission to complete the Capitol and Capitol grounds; which was read a first and second time. 670 Documentary History of the Capitol. He also moved that the bill be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs. Mr. Morgan. That bill appropriately belongs to the Committee on the Public Buildings and Grounds. Mr. Taylor, of New York. I believe the construction of the Capitol extensions is now in charge of the War Department. Mr. Clingman. I object to debate. If it give rise to debate, it will go over. Mr. Jones, of Tennessee. The Committee on the Public Buildings and Grounds have this subject, as I understand, under consideration, and are preparing a report on the extension of the grounds on different plans, covering different areas, so that the House may be able to select under what plan and to what extent the grounds shall be enlarged, and I think this subject should go to them. It is a committee which is certainly organized to investigate and look into the condition of the public buildings and grounds, and it is the committee to which this subject, as it seems to me, should properly be referred. Mr. Taylor, of New York. I have no objection to that reference, except this: the chairman of that committee told me that I had better not have the bill referred to that committee; that he was opposed to the whole thing, and should report against it. I would like to have this bill receive a fair consideration; and I want it referred to a committee which will give it a fair and proper consideration. That is my only reason for proposing that it shall be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs. Mr. Morgan. If the Committee on the Public Buildings and Grounds is not the proper committee to consider such a subject, we may as well abolish the committee altogether. Mr. Taylor, of New York. I will not object to its being referred to that committee. The bill was accordingly referred to the Committee on the Public Buildings and Grounds. [From the “Act to supply Deficiencies in the Appropriations for the Service of the Fiscal Year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred 'and fifty-eight,” approved, May 4, 1858. (Stats, at Large, v. 11, 267. )] For furniture for speaker’s room, and committee rooms, clerk’s offices, sergeant- at-arms’ office, door-keeper’s room, and carpenter’s work, thirty thousand dollars. [House proceedings of May 19, 1858: Congressional Globe, 35 — 1, pp. 2243,2256-7.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1859 — Mr. Lovejoy. * * * Now, sir, these military men are to be found everywhere. The superintendent for constructing this Capitol must be a military man; and if you ask for their monuments, I would reply in the language of the epitaph of Sir Chris- topher Wren, in St. Paul’s: “Si monumentum qu?eris, circumspice.” If you want a monument of military architecture, look at the meretricious and garish gilding of these walls, and the splendid specimens of fresco paintings in these panels. And then go down into the Agricultural Committee-room — at one end is a representation of Old Put leaving his plow; and at the other end is Cincinnatus, also leaving his plow. Now, sir, the proper idea is, in my view, to have given some paintings that would represent the agriculture of the present time — of 1858 — so that one or three hundred years hence those who see them should learn what was the condition of agriculture of the present year. There is one exception — that of a reaper. This is as it should be. That is on one side, in the middle of a field of wheat, and looks very well, except that it ought to have been at the side of the field, as that, is where cutting The Extensions. 671 begins. Over head, we have pictures of Bacchus, Ceres, and so on, surrounded with cupids, cherubs, &c., to the end of heathen mythology. All this we have; but not a single specimen of the valuable breeds of cattle, horses, sheep, &c., which are now found in the country. In another panel, we have a company of harvesters, with the sickle, which is well enough, only a quarter of a century too late. But worst of all, there is not a single picture to represent maize. A panel ought to have been given to this single production. It should have been represented in its different stages; as it emerges, weak and diminutive, from the ground; as it sways in its dark luxuriance of June and July; and then as it waves its tasseled crest, like the plumes of an armed host; and last, in its rich golden maturity. The picture of Putnam would have been very well in the committee-room of Revo- lutionary Claims, but has no significance where it is, as it is a revolutionary reminis- cence. In the place of this should have been the picture of a western plow, with its polished steel mold-board, with the hardy yeoman, with one hand resting on the plow-handle, and with the other holding a span of bays, with arched neck and neatly-trimmed harness. Pictures are symbols of ideas, and this would have told to the future the present mode of culture of free labor. At the opposite end, in the place of Cincinnatus and his plow, (the plow of two thousand years ago, ) there should have been a negro slave, with untidy clothing, with a slouching gait, shuttling along by the side of a mule team, with ragged harness and rope traces, drawing a barrel of water on the forks of a tree. This Would represent the idea of slave labor. Thus we should have a symbol of the two systems of labor now struggling for the ascendency. * * * Mr. Harris, of Illinois. I move to amend the bill by striking out the two hundred and twenty-fifth line, as follows: For United States Capitol extension, $1,000,000. I make that motion for the purpose of disposing of this question. Otherwise it would be debated here another day, and we should end the debate where we began it. If gentlemen are in favor of the appropriation, they can have a chance to vote upon it in the House; if they are opposed to the appropriation, they have the same right in the House. I think the Committee of Ways and Means are as competent to decide on its necessity as we can possibly lie who have given less attention to it. If we strike it out, we can pass on to other items of the bill; and we will have an oppor- tunity in the House to record our votes for or against this item. In the anxiety to dispose of the public business, I hope the committee will proceed to vote on my amendment. Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. Mr. Chairman [Loud cries of “Question!” “Question!” ] Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. I understand my right here to be to offer my amend- ment, and the right of gentlemen on the other side of the House to reject it if they see fit. I propose to amend by adding this amendment: Provided, That this appropriation shall not be expended, in whole or in part, upon the embellish, ment or decoration of the Capitol extension, either by painting or sculpture in the panels or niches of the Senate or House, or in the pediments of the porticoes, or in the finish of the halls, committee rooms, or passages, unless the designs for such embellishment and decoration shall have been first submitted to and accepted by a committee, to be selected by the President, composed of three distin. guished artists, citizens of the United States, which committee shall be employed by the President for the purpose of examining and determining upon such designs as shall be adopted for the embel. lishmentof the Capitol extension: And provided farther, Said committee of artists shall act in connec- tion with and subordinate to the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress, and shall not be authorized to conclude any contract for the execution of such design without the direction of said committee. Mr. Chairman, I desire to say to the committee, if this amendment does not explain itself, that it is my purpose, in offering the amendment, to place the embellishment 672 Documentary History of the Capitol. of this Capitol in the hands of our Joint Committee on the Library, but to interpose so as to have the designs that are to fill these panels and niches submitted to artistic taste before they are adopted. If you appropriate for this Capitol extension a million dollars, and permit it to go unguarded in this appropriation bill, this million dollars may be expended, in whole or in part, by those who have heretofore conducted the embellishment and decoration of this Capitol. The panels around this Hall may all be filled with this money. These niches may all be filled with sculpture of the selection of gentlemen who have no experience in such matters; and 1 think, myself, it ought to be guarded. Mr. Harris, of Illinois. If the gentleman will listen to me for a moment, l would suggest that instead of his three distinguished artists he refer this matter to the Joint Committee on the Library, and they can consult with distinguished artists if they choose. Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. I would say to the gentleman that I have brought the committee of artists that I have designated under the control of the Committee on the Library so far as to prevent the artists from executing designs until they shall be approved by the Joint Committee on the Library. But I have brought the Joint Committee on the Library under the control of artistic taste to the extent that the designs that are to be submitted to them shall have passed the examination of men of some professional skill. Mr. Barksdale. I would ask the gentleman from Kentucky what amount of pay his amendment provides shall be given to these artists? Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. None at all, sir. 1 am proud for American artists to say that they want no pay. All they ask is that their country, in erecting an edifice like this, and in establishing a great national monument like this, may do as other countries have always clone — encourage art so far as to give their artists some oppor- tunity to transmit their names to future times, in connection with this national edi- fice, and not to have the panels of this Hall filled with daubs like that. [Pointing to a specimen of fresco in one of the panels of the Hall.] Mr. J. Clancy Jones. I wish to say to the gentleman from Kentucky that I approve of his amendment, and hope it will be adopted; but I wish to remark that the money which will be required for the decoration of this Hall is not included in this appropriation. Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. Mr. Chairman, I believe I have the floor. The gen- tleman is so compendious in his remarks, that- a single sentence deserves a reply. [Laughter.] Let me say to the gentleman, There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy. Sir, if this appropriation is not guarded as I propose, these panels will be filled [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Harris, of Illinois. I do not propose to reply at any length to the remarks of the gentleman from Kentucky; but when he proposes to call into requisition the high degree of artistic skill which he eulogizes so much, I may refer to some of the exhibitions of artistic skill here, that have provoked the criticism and animadversion of members ever since we have occupied this Hall. It is claimed by these artists that this Hall exhibits the highest degree of that artistic skill which is again to be invoked to decorate and adorn this Capitol. Now, I am not disposed to confide much in that kind of artistic skill by which this Hall and this Capitol extension have been decorated. I much prefer to rely upon the Joint Committee on the Library, or a joint committee to be raised for the purpose, than upon these three distinguished artists. Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. None of my men had anything to do with this Hall. Mr. Harris, of Illinois. If we place the matter under the control of such a com- mittee, who will, of course, consult such artists as they consider to be distinguished The Extensions. 673 artists, I think we shall arrive at better conclusions than by confiding the matter to the unlimited control of three distinguished artists, who are kind enough to volun- teer their services for no compensation but the distinguished honor of having their marks upon this national edifice. I think the fact that they are willing to give their services without pay is quite conclusive evidence that their services would be worth just what they ask for them. [Laughter.] I hope the amendment will be modified, so as to place the matter under the direc- tion of a joint committee of Congress; but if it be a fact, as stated by the gentleman from Pennsylvania, that this appropriation does not apply to the decorations of the Capitol, then the amendment is altogether unnecessary. Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. I would like to know where the control of the matter is now? Mr. Harris, of Illinois. I suppose that the control of it rests with the architect of the Capitol. Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. I understand that it rests with the Committee on the Library. Mr. Harris, of Illinois. And that committee have never consulted on the subject, as I understand. Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. And never will. Mr. Harris, of Illinois. There is no law directing the supervision of the matter by the Committee on the Library. Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. The architecture of the Capitol rests ultimately with the President of the United States, by law. The actual supervision of the architecture has been transferred to the Secretary of War, and by him to Captain Meigs. And when they put a thing like that painting over there on plaster, they call it a part of the architecture, inasmuch as part of it is fresco work. Mr. Harris, of Illinois. Then, if the control of the matter is fixed by law, the gen- tleman’s amendment, according to his own statement, is not in order, as it changes the existing law. Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. Not at all. There is no provision of law about the embellishment and decoration of the Capitol, to which my amendment is confined. The amendment to the amendment, proposed by Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky, was agreed to. The question was taken; and the motion to strike out was agreed to. * * * Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. I now offer the amendment which I before offerde, in relation to the decoration of the Capitol, and which was struck out under a mis- understanding. The amendment was read. Mr. Letcher. I rise to a question of order. Inasmuch as everything connected with the extension of the Capitol has been stricken out, this amendment is not ger- mane to anything in the bill. The Chairman. The Chair is of opinion that the question of order is well taken. Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. I appeal from the decision of the Chair. The question being, “ Shall the decision of the Chair stand as the judgment of the committee?” It was put; and decided in the affirmative. So the opinion of the Chair was sustained, and the amendment was ruled out. Mr. Smith, of Virginia. I move that the committee rise, and report the Hill to the House. The motion was agreed to. So the committee rose; and the Speaker having resumed the chair, Mr. Smith, of Tennessee, reported that the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union had, according to order, had the state of the Union generally under consideration, and H. Rep. 646 43 674 Documentary History of the Capitol. particularly House bill (No. 200) making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the year ending 30th June, 1859, and had instructed him to report the same back to the House, with various amendments, with a recommenda- tion that they do pass. Mr. J. Glancy Jones. I move the previous question upon the adoption of the amendments. Mr. Stanton. I ask the gentleman from Pennsylvania to allow me, before he calls the previous question, to offer an amendment which was agreed to by the committee unanimously, but was voted out afterwards by mistake. Mr. J. Glancy Jones. I have no objection to allow that amendment to be offered, if I do not lose the floor thereby. The Speaker. If it be the pleasure of the House, the proposition will be received. There was no objection, and the amendment was entertained. Mr. J. Glancy Jones. I move the previous question. The previous question was seconded, and the main question ordered. Mr. J. Glancy Jones moved to reconsider the vote 'by which the main question was ordered ; and also moved to lay the motion to reconsider on the table. The latter motion was agreed to. * * * Mr. .T. Glancy Jones. In reply to the gentleman I will say, that there is not a single law upon the statute-book authorizing the furnishing of any building, either an executive building, the President’s House, or this Capitol. The fur ni shing proceeds upon the principle that it is an incident to the erection of the buildings themselves. [Senate proceedings of May 28, 1858: Congressional Globe, 35 — 1, p. 2481.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the amend- ments proposed by the Committee on Finance to the Sundry Civil bill for 1859 — The next amendment of the committee was to insert, after line two hundred and forty-four: For United States Capitol extension, $750,000: Provided , That this appropriation shall not be expended, in whole or in part, upon the embellishment or decoration of the Capitol extension, either by painting or sculpture in the panels or niches of the Senate or House, unless the designs for such embellishment and decoration shall have been first submitted to. and approved by, the Joint Com- mittee of the Library of Congress. Mr. Davis. I wish to offer an amendment to the amendment, to strike out all after the word “for,” and insert: The completion of the Capitol extension, $1,185,183 34: and to enable the Library Committee to contract with distinguished artists for historical paintings and sculpture for the panels and niches of the Legislative Halls and of the great stairways of the Capitol extension, $50,000 in addition to funds already in their hands for that purpose. Mr. Hunter. The original estimate was $1,000,000 for this year. The House of Representatives did not insert the amount of the estimate in the appropriation bill, nor indeed any amount. The Committee on Finance agreed, after some considera- tion, to ask for $750,000, a part of the sum, towards the completion of the Capitol. In view of the present state of finances, it was thought there ought to be some reduc- tion, especially as the House did not put it in. I should have been content, myself, with adopting the amount of $500,000; something I was disposed to insist on. I think we ought to have our end of the Aving completed; at least the room into which we are to go. We have, a right to insist on that much ; and I Avas disposed to go for half the estimate. I am willing to go for $750,000; but I think Ave had better not ask for the whole under the circumstances. In regard to the latter part of the Senator’s amendment, as to contracts wdth artists, I think I would rather postpone The Extensions. 675 that, and have that hereafter, if we are to have it. I go, however, for completing the building. I go fur what is necessary, in order to consummate what we have undertaken; and I think $750,000 is enough for the present. Mr. Polk. I should like to know from the chairman of the Finance Committee how much it would require to finish the new Hall for the Senate. Mr. Hunter. I am unable to say how much it would require to finish the new Hall. I believe the estimate to complete the whole is the amount named in the amendment of the Senator from Mississippi. Mr. Polk. Then what is the standard by which the committee report $750,000? Mr. Hunter. It was supposed to be a compromise between a half and the ■whole. It was a general estimate. Mr. Davis. The sum named in the amendment which I have asked for to complete the Capitol extension, is exactly the estimate. It is what remains unappropriated of the estimate for the completion of the Capitol; and with this I expect the wings to be completed. The sum asked for by the Committee on Finance is not enough to continue the work for the period of a year. The expenditure, when the work is carried on at full time with a full set of hands, is about one hundred thousand dollars a month. If $750,000 be appropriated, the appropriation will run out before the end of the year, the hands must be discharged, and application be made here for additional appropriations to complete the building; and when the additional appropriations are made the hands must be collected again at additional expense. A million dollars is the estimate of the superintendent for the year’s expenditures. I have proposed, as an amendment, the sum estimated for the completion of the work, which is to add $185,183 to the amount needed for the year. If we accept his estimate and grant the whole amount, the work will be conducted more economically, and we have a right to require of him that it shall complete the building. If the Committee on Finance, compromising between his estimate and some fanciful sum, adopt an amount which they choose to give, he is not bound to perform any particular amount of work with that appropriation; he is not able to do it as economically as if he were to keep up the full organization of the work. Until he reaches the point of the construction of the portico, a large number of hands is the most economical mode of carrying on the work. At that point the hands must lie reduced and the monthly expenditure must be reduced. A million dollars is estimated by him to answer all purposes for the year; but in order that I may insert the words “to complete” and make this a final appropriation, I choose to add the balance of the money which I find in his estimate for the completion of the work. Then the addition which is made in regard to statues for the niches, and paintings for the panels, was put there because I found in the amendment proposed by the Committee on Finance a proviso that none of this species of work should be done except in a particular way. Now the fact is, that no portion of the money granted for construction is, in my opinion, applicable to the work of making statues for the niches, or decorative paintings. The vacant panels that have been left on the wall indicate and suggest that they are, some day or other, to be filled with paintings. The money appropriated for the construction of the building has not been so ap- plied, and I do not think it could lie properly so applied. It must be by a vote of Congress that these paintings are to be made. It must be by a vote of Congress that statues are to be put in the niches. None of this money, if the whole sum asked for be granted, can be appropriated to either of these purposes. I have no wish to go on now with the paintings, or putting statues in the niches. I agree with the chairman of the Committee on Finance that it is better to postpone that; but I see no purpose in the proviso which is added to his amendment, unless it is to suggest to the minds of members, as it does to mine, that they are already proposing now to have the niches filled with statues and the panels on the walls filled with paintings. 676 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Seward. Will the honorable Senator from Mississippi allow me to ask him a question? Mr. Davis. Certainly. Mr. Seward. I desire to ask the Senator whether he cannot divide his amendment. I am in favor of appropriating $1 ,000,000 for finishing the Capitol, instead of $750,000 for the year. I want to vote first on that proposition irrespective of these questions about ornamenting the panels, because I am with the Senator as to the appropria- tion, but against him on the other point. Mr. Davis. 1 should prefer to divide my amendment, and the reason I did not do so — I stuck the two provisions together with a wafer, as will be seen — was to get rid of a question of order, for which I have always great abhorrence. Mr. Seward. So have I. Mr. Davis. 1 prefer to have the question on the appropriation for the completion of the building. If I am understood, I will say nothing more. Mr. Pearce. I hope the Senator from Mississippi will so change his amendment as to leave out the second clause. There is certainly no necessity at present for appro- priating money for paintings for the panels, and statues for the niches. Indeed that is a work of time. We might have these panels and niches filled with very unwor- thy objects of art, instead of such as should fill them; and I think it would be very well to arrange a system for the ornamentation of the Capitol by such objects, at a time when there is more money in the Treasury than there is now, and when we shall have leisure to digest such a system. I should prefer myself that the Library Committee were not charged with any such duty. Mr. Davis. I have answered the principal object I had in bringing to the notice of the Senate the question of the decorative ornament of the Capitol. It is put, by the proposition, under the charge of the Committee on the Library; and the main object I had was to correct an error which is creeping into the popular mind, and has been disseminated over the Halls of Congress, that the Capitol has been decorated with the money given for construction. The painting of the walls, the coloring of the walls, the use of paint instead of ornamental paper on the walls, is not in the nature of historical paintings which are to fill the panels that are left vacant in all the w r alls. So, too, it has gone out that an immense amount is spent for statuary. Not a dollar has been spent for statuary except for the pediment, and that properly so spent, because the pediment of the building in which we now sit is ornamented, not equally, but in the same style. It was called for in the pediments of the extension because it was so in the original building. If I have now r directed the attention of the Senate to the fact that no part of the appropriation heretofore made, and none of that about to be made can properly be employed for this purpose, I have answered my object. Mr. Hunter. I am opposed to increasing the appropriation, but I will state in regard to the proviso that I am very willing, personally, that it should be stricken out. The opinion of the Finance Committee was that the effect of adopting it would be to suspend any work of that kind until a future period — not that it was a means of providing for carrying it on, but stopping it so as to devote the money to the com- pletion of the building. Mr. Davis. I would ask the chairman, was it the opinion of the Committee on Finance that that work had ever been commenced? Mr. I Iunter. Whether it is their opinion or not, it is an opinion that prevails; and for the purpose of putting an end to it, and satisfying any who had doubts in that regard, it was proposed to insert this proviso; but I am very willing that the proviso should lie stricken out. I am not willing, however, to increase the amount of the appropriation. Mr. Fessenden. I will state for the information of the Senator from Mississippi that this proviso w r as put ih, I believe, at my suggestion, although somev hat mod- ified from the original form proposed by me, for this reason: I noticed that such a The Extensions. 677 provision was inserted in the House of Representatives in order to make the appro- priation more palatable. It was put in substantially, and then the House negatived the appropriation. My impression was that the appropriation might fare better in the House of Representatives if we had the proviso in so as to have a definite under- standing on that point. It was proposed simply with reference to making the appro- priation more acceptable in the other House, where it had been refused. Mr. Davis. The objection to it is, that in attempting to make the appropriation palatable to the House of Representatives, it does injustice to the officer who has been charged with the superintendence of the work. It is a suggestion that money has been so applied when, in fact, it has not been. Mr. Collamer. I wish to ask the Senator a question. Certain it is there has been a great deal of ornamental painting in the new portion of the Capitol. Has not that painting been paid for out of the general appropriation for erection? There is a great deal of fresco painting. Mr. Davis. The coloring of the walls and the little figures introduced on them? Mr. Collamer. Wherever there is a covering of a room, take for instance the Agri- cultural Committee-room of the House of Representatives, there are paintings on the panels of the walls and overhead, and so it is all over the new Capitol. I call that ornamental painting. Has not that been paid for out of the general appropriation? Mr. Davis. There is fresco painting in the committee room to which the Senator refers, and I am glad that he has reminded me of it, because that room was prepared as a specimen to be submitted to Congress, and they were called upon by the then Secretary of War, being myself, to see whether or not they would have the other rooms completed in the same style, and they were told that if so, and if they would have the building floored with encaustic tiling, an additional sum of money would be required. An opinion was sought from Congress. It was not given by any vote, but it came to me in every other form that they wanted the building finished in the very highest order of modern art. One expression I recollect distinctly, because it was very striking, that Brother Jonathan was entitled to as good a house as any prince or potentate on earth, and generally that they wanted the best materials and best style of workmanship and highest order of art introduced into the Capitol of the United States. It was under that view that estimates were made for the appropriation passed. Mr. Collamer. Still I understand that what we call painting has been done to a large extent. There may be historical paintings to lie placed in the panels here- after; that is another affair; but it is certain that painting to a large amount, to a great extent, in the new Capitol, has been done out of the money appropriated to the general erection. I do not say that I am opposed to this at all, though I may differ very much from some in relation to the taste with which it has been done; but I understand this proviso to be nothing but a restriction in relation to getting historical paintings, or something of that kind. Mr. Davis. Of course I did not suppose the Finance Committee meant that they should not put paint on the walls. It was historical paintings, of course. Mr. Collamer. I would very much desire, if it were possible, to put a restriction on this matter in relation to the ordinary paintings. I think the architectural character of the Representative Hall, as now finished, is entirely overburdened and disguised and thrown out of sight by the great variety of colors put in. I think it is a sort of Joseph’s coat; and I desire very much that that kind of thing maybe kept out of the new Senate Chamber; and I believe that a large portion of the Sena- tors entertain the same taste and feelings. If anything can be done by way of securing a little more of chastity in it, I should desire it. Mr. Davis. The Senator would not reach his purpose at all by this proviso. It does not direct itself to that point at all. I would ask the Senator if he has been in the new Senate Chamber? 678 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Collamer. I have been in it; but it is in so unfinished a state that I cannot judge of it. Mr. Davis. You can judge of the ceiling. Mr. Collamer. The only consolation I have about it is, that a little paint brush will take out all this coloring almost any time. Mr. Davis. That is not answering my question. Mr. Collamer. I have been in it, but it is in an unfinished condition. Mr. Davis. The ceiling unfinished! 1 thought the ceiling was painted. Mr. Collamer. I am talking now about the gilding, and half a dozen colors put into a cornice. Mr. Davis. 1 think all is there that will be, unless you propose, to add something more. Mr. Collamer. I do not know what they propose to put there. I believe they have not got quite so much meretricious ornament, as I consider it, as in the Hall of the House, of Representatives. Whether they mean to come up to that hereafter, I do not know. Mr. Davis. The Senator does not answer my question. Mr. Collamer. I have answered the, question. I have been in there and looked at it, but I regard it as an unfinished affair. Mr. Davis. Then it is too plain for the Senator, I suppose. He may add more to it if he chooses. It is a more somber style than that of the Hall of the House of Representatives. In relation to the decision which the Senator makes on the amount of ornamentation which is exemplified in either, I will only say that my taste is too uncultivated to decide that question. Not having had the advantage of seeing the best specimens of art; not having studied painting as an art, I should be compelled to draw my judgment from the opinion of those who had made it the study of their lives. A man of very high reputation in that particular branch of art was charged with it; his work was examined from time to time, and corrected by an officer in whose taste I have great confidence; and I rather think that as the eye of those who are so ready to criticise is cultivated up to the highest style of art which is intro- duced into both the Senate and House Chambers, they will appreciate better and more approve what has been done. Some members of the House have had the frankness to tell me that they disliked the ceiling very much when they went into their new Hall, but have since become accustomed to it, and like it very well. But all that amounts to very little. What is the painting or gilding worth when measured with the great purposes had in view? It was not to paint or to gild suc- cessfully that Congress appropriated money. It was to get a room in which they could hear; in which they could speak; in which the business could be conducted without the disorder that belonged to the old Hall. It was to give to the Senate a room of sufficient capacity for their purposes. The acoustic and the optic problems were considered of such importance as to make all the rest subordinate. The success in both respects, I think, has been eminent beyond any other public room of the same size of which I have heard in any part of the world. And if it has answered these great requisites, and if to these has been added a mode of heating which will give it an equal temperature, and a mode of ventilating which will prevent fumes and dust from rising from the floor anti passing into the lungs of members, then I think we shall have achieved all that Congress had in view, or at least all that was considered of importance. Rub off the gilding, and jiaint out the colors; make them all one, if the Senator from Vermont desires not to have many colors; if the Senator wants to have all of one color, make it one. But there is not an artist who would attempt to ornament a building by painting with one color. His skill is shown in the harmony of the colors, blending them so that no one rests on the eye and commands its single attention. I would be surprised at the American Congress if it were to wipe out these great efforts of art, and introduce as a substitute the crude notion of a single color. The Extensions. 679 The Presiding Officer, (Mr. Stuart in the chair.) The Chair understands the Senator from Mississippi as withdrawing the latter branch of his amendment. Mr. Davis. Yes, sir- I shall offer that afterwards. Mr. Seward. If we discuss from now until the end of the session, I do not think we shall be able to agree in regard to the decoration of the Chambers of the two Houses. Tt is a matter of taste, and our tastes differ naturally, and differ by cultiva- tion and habit; but since there has been so much discussion on this subject, I barely wish to express my opinion on the question which has been raised between the Sen- ator from Vermont and the Senator from Mississippi. It seems to have been settled that it is necessary to have a Senate Chamber and a Representative Chamber in which everybody can hear everybody, and everybody can see everybody; and the want of these qualities rendered the old Chambers inconvenient. It seems also to have been settled that the only form in which a Chamber can be made, and furnish these two qualities, is the oblong and the parallelogram; and that there must be no breaking of the walls, no breaking of surfaces; there must be parallel and smooth surfaces. It is nothing else, then, in either case, but the form of a chest — the most graceless form in geometry or in architecture. When you have got that form, it certainly requires some modification, in some way, to make it agreeable to the eye and to make it pleasant to the taste. I have considered the matter, and I do not know any way in which the Hall of the House of Representatives could have been relieved of the serious objection of the deformity so disagreeable to the eye, of an oblong room with naked, smooth surfaces, and commended it to my taste so effect- ually as it has been by the process of embellishment which has been adopted. But, as has been said by others, so it is with me; I have not been trained to the study of this matter. 1 know that I do not appreciate the highest perfection of music as those do whose tastes have been cultivated up to it; and it is only as I study the art of painting that I come to appreciate qualities which those who are not versed in that art do not appreciate. I have thought it due to express my approbation of what has been done in both Chambers, and to say that, so far as I am concerned, I am content with it; but I do not suppose my opinion will be of any essential value. Mr. Houston. Mr. President, I am not acquainted with the details of extending the wings of the Capitol; but there is one circumstance to which my attention has been drawn, and on which I should like to obtain information; and that is, who are the sculptors that are employed in the shanties out here, in preparing the different statues for their appropriate places in the new Capitol? I have observed some of them; and the goddess of Liberty, I believe, is one. I am an admirer of statuary, but I cannot say that I am a critic, or even an amateur, in that department of art. It does seem to me that it is a figure which makes rather a queer display in the Capi- tol. In the first place, I object to its attitude. It appears to me to be in anguish — - drawn back in the most ungraceful and ungainly attitude for a lady. [Laughter.] It appears to be in torment; and had it been physical, I should have imagined that it really had a boil under the arm. [Laughter.] Take it all in all — take the tout ensemble — I have seen nothing resembling it. Instead of the bare feet with sandals, it is represented with a very formidable pair of russet brogans, that would suit very well for laborers in the swamps of the South. That is one of the most queer and ridicu- lous things I have ever seen to represent human nature. 1 have never seen a wax figure but what was equally graceful and rather more beautiful and artistic in its appearance. Then there is an Indian woman, or squaw, to be more technical, seated on a slab of marble. That may be very well executed; but she has a little papoose in her arms, and its little head is sticking out like a terrapin’s, [laughter,] without reclining gracefully on the arm. She has a blanket, or something, holding it up; and its little neck, without the least curve or grace, is very stiff, like an apple on a stick. [Laughter.] Now, sir, think of it, that throughout all ages, as long as this Capitol 680 Documentary History of the Capitol. shall stand, or this Union exist, which I hope is to be forever, that poor little Indian has to sustain a heavy head with that little neck, and without a mother’s aid to hold it reclining on her arms. [Laughter. ] Any person who will look at that must be agonized. Sir, the scenes around us in this building ought to inspire cheerful- ness and pleasure. Instead of that, a contemplation of this figure will inflict agony on every human being of sensibility. And then there is a poor Indian boy, who looks as if of Oriental stock. He has a large shell on his shoulders; and, in this agonizing attitude, water is to spout con- tinually on him. He is in the most servile, miserable, cruel, agonizing attitude in which I ever saw a creature. It will inspire us with feelings of anguish if we should ever see these figures displayed about this Capitol. I would like to have the gentle- men of the Senate go and see them, before they are placed in a situation where they will have to be removed; for it will cost something to place them there. I insist that, at least, there ought to be an amendment for the purpose of providing curtains to hang in front of them, so that they shall never be seen. I am a man of sympathy; I feel for human suffering; and I could not contemplate one of these three figures without the extremest agony. They are in torment; you would suppose they were representations of some criminal that had committed an unpardonable offense, for which he was doomed to perpetual agony. I object to their going into this Capitol, or being about it. I do not know the artist; I cannot exactly say whether he is a native — no, sir, I know he is not a native; for a native artist, observing nature as it is in our forests and in our wilds— for we all more or less pass through forests and see nature, animal, vegetable, material, all around us — could not have fancied such sketches as these are. I object to them unequivocally; I can never submit to them. Mr. Davis. The Senator’s sympathetic heart is greatly moved at this mother of stone’s rude treatment of her child; and his sympathy getting possession of his judgment, and his industry not having induced him to acquire any information on the subject, he supposes these statues are to go in the Capitol. One is a faun, a piece merely intended to be put under a fountain. He mixes up the group made for the pediment with the idea of statues for the niches in the Capitol; and after all that his eyes drank in had been exhausted, he turned his imagination loose, and commenced on the broad field of assumption; and he presumed it would be pre- sumption in any man in this Chamber to attempt to strip from Crawford, the great American genius, whose name has shed a luster upon our country, his merit as an artist — one whose early death was the nation’s loss, and whom the nation yet deplores. He it was who, so ignorant in the eyes of the Senator from Texas, modeled these masterpieces of art, which he did not live to see finally executed; and yet the Senator assumes that he must have been a foreigner; and he no doubt felt himself safe from the supposition, because in the United States we have so few sculptors that we might have been driven to employ a foreigner! There were two pediments. One was offered to Crawford, the man of highest genius Avho ever held an American chisel in his hand. He took it. That is the master work of his life, and will stand as long as the Senator hopes the Union will stand, as a monument of his genius, and an honor to his country. The other was offered to Powers. He declined it. His high reputation as an American artist caused me to regret that he declined it. It is still open to an American artist. It has been offered to none other; no invitation has been given to any other than American artists. If the Senator will inform himself a little more, his criticisms hereafter may be spared the corrections which they now provoke. Mr. Houston. I will ask whether Mr. Crawford lived to complete the pieces he designed, and what pieces he designed? Mr. Davis. Every one that belongs to the pediment, accomplished by his own hand, and imported here, and seen in the progress of its execution ; but a disease that proved fatal before its final accomplishment. The Extensions. 681 Mr. Houston. I believe it is not completed yet. How any man, unless he was under the influence of a diseased brain, could ever have fancied that a pair of bro- gans were becoming, and incorporated necessarily with heathen mythology, [laugh- ter,] I cannot conceive. Mr. Davis. The Senator must allow me to instruct him, because his wit is out of place, and particularly as it is practiced on a dead artist of such eminent character. Mr. Houston. It is on the marble. Mr. Davis. It is no heathen mythology. Mr. Houston. The goddess of Liberty? Mr. Davis. You did not even stop to learn the name of the thing, or the distance at which it was to be viewed. Mr. Houston. I did not want to do it. [Laughter.] I was satisfied that it was some unfortunate lady that had fallen into great bodily agony and infelicity of feel- ing. Her countenance denotes no pleasure. I should like to know what lady has commended herself to the consideration of the Government, in a national point of view, so far as to be entitled to so much bestowment of art, and of labor, and expen- diture, that has worn brogan shoes? [Laughter.] 1 commend it to the special notice of Senators. Her robe is floating; the zone is bound with loose drapery; and who ever heard of a person, thus dressed and decorated, wearing brogan shoes? Nobody, Mr. President, ever heard of it. It is not wit; it is matter of gravity and solemn complaint with me. Who ever heard of a mother holding a child in her arms, with the little fellow’s neck sticking out like your finger? No, sir; it reclines on the mother’s arm and is not drawn up in that agonizing attitude. It is unheard of. I do not care who has done it — it is an imposition upon art. Crawford was a genius, and he never did it. It is impossible that genius, taste, or fancy, could ever have suggested such a thing. Sir, go and look at the two statues. Look at the infant in the mother’s arms, and see its attitude, and what it must perpetually endure. See, too, the attitude of that personage — I do not know who she is; it appears I was mistaken in supposing she was the goddess of Liberty. Certainly, I would have taken no undue liberties with her, [laughter,] because, to have commented on the model appears to be culpable. I did not intend it; I intended nothing but to deliver my opinion. I am not a scribbler, or I should have criticised them in the newspapers, to have prevented their introduction to the public eye. They well become their present condition; they are unfinished, and I hope will remain so as long as time lasts; for whenever the artist, or the lover of nature, or the admirer of beauty, of grace, and of elegance, comes to contemplate them, they must be condemned, no matter who produced them. I intend no reflection on the sculp- tor. I intend not the slightest reflection on the memory of the departed. My friends and my enemies are to me alike when covered by the earth’s dust — bearing no part of my animosity. 1 only extend the sympathies of friendship to my friends with a tenderness that, perhaps, I have not had the generosity to bestow upon my adversaries; but I never reflected upon an artist or a man of genius. Being deficient in it myself, I admire it in others; and I am willing to accord to them the highest eulogiums — the highest praise; but I judge the tree by its fruit. The Presiding Officer, (Mr. Stuart.) The amendment will be read. The Secretary read the amendment of Mr. Davis, as modified; which was, to strike out all after the word “for” in the amendment reported by the Committee on Finance, and insert: The completion of the Capitol extension, $1,185,183.34. Mr. Hunter. For one, I am not willing to appropriate the entire amount. I think that where ever we can, we ought to cut off something from the estimates for public buildings and prosecute them a little more slowly. We have had to propose to appropriate for other public buildings over the country, in order to perform existing contracts, and we shall make the appropriations so large that there will be no 682 Documentary History of the Capitol. chance of meeting them with any means we have. It may be that they could expend the whole sum proposed to be appropriated, by the meeting of the next Congress; but I would rather they should go on more slowly. Let us save whenever we can, if it be only two or three hundred thousand dollars. It would be a great point if we could succeed in cutting down the estimates, if we can do so consistently with the public service, three or tour millions. We shall find relief at the next session if we succeed in doing it. Mr. Davis. If the object of the chairman of the Committee on Finance is economy, he is pursuing the wrong road. Unless he allows the superintendent to have that amount of money which will keep the whole force on the work, it follows as a necessary consequence that he will have to discharge the force, and reemploy them when he gets additional appropriations. The difference between the sum necessary to complete the work, and that which the committee agreed to allow, is 1435,000. 1 think it much better to appropriate the whole sum, and require the superintendent to complete the building with it, than to come near that whole sum, and then have to give a subsequent appropropriation, with a knowledge that you must increase his estimate if you destroy his organization. Mr. Hunter. We have had to meet that argument in other public buildings, and we shall have to meet it in any reduction proposed in navy-yards. It is essential that we should reduce where ever we can. In times like these we must go on slowly. If we had the money, I have no doubt it would be better to go on with many of the public works more rapidly than we propose to do in the appropriation bills; but looking to our condition, the committee felt it was due to the state of the Treasury that wherever we could, we should carry on these works more slowly. I believe $750,000 is appropriating more liberally, in proportion to the whole sum that is wanting, than we appropriate for various other works that are in progress. Mr. Iverson. I shall vote against this proposition to increase the appropriation; but I think I shall follow out the suggestion of the chairman of the Committee on Finance, and move to strike out $750,000 and insert $500,000. I have no doubt it will require the amount estimated by the Senator from Mississippi to complete the Capitol. Mr. Davis. It requires that amount to complete it now; but if the superintendent does not get it now, he will require more hereafter. Mr. Iverson. I do not understand that reasoning. It does not satisfy me that because it requires $1,185,000 now, it will require more if you do not appropriate that money now. The Senator from Mississippi says the expenditures are about one hundred thousand dollars a month. Well, sir, you can very easily reduce that $100,000 a month, without any harm whatever to the building, by simply discharg- ing a portion of the operatives. The expenditure is simply the amount you pay to your operatives, to your employes. If you pay $100,000 a month to them, by reduc- ing them one half, you will only have to pay $50,000, and it will merely run the expenditure over a larger space of time — that is all. Mr. Davis. 1 will tell the Senator why I think it will require more money if the whole appropriation be not now made. The officer must keep the same number of principal workmen, the same number of overseers, draughtsmen, and superintend- ents, that he would have with a larger body of operatives. The expensive part of the personnel must be kept up with the smaller organization. Consequently it will cost more money; because, when he disbands his men and brings them back again, he must expect to pay for bringing them back. Mr. Iverson. I apprehend that all the models and drawings have already been made. Certainly at this stage of the proceedings new models and new drawings are not to be exhibited. They must have all been agreed upon and furnished long since. There is no necessity, then, for employing artists for that purpose. All that has been done already, every room in the building, has been planned; the execution The Extensions. 683 of the whole of it has been planned, and the whole of it entered upon; it is all understood, and does not require the employment of those artists, it seems to me, to carry it on. I think it eminently proper, in the present condition of the public finances, that the appropriations should be limited; and we ought to commence here on the Cap- itol, which is intended for our convenience. That is the proper place to stop expenditures and lessen them. The Committee of Ways and Means in the House of Representatives, instead of appropriating money to go on with the fortifications and necessary defenses of the country, have only proposed to appropriate a sufficient amount to keep them in repair, to keep them in a condition of not wasting or going to decay. Many fortifications of essential interest and benefit to the country are to be left in this condition. The one which is the key to the Gulf of Mexico, the one which is more important, perhaps, than all the others put together to the southern country, especially to those States lying on the Gulf of Mexico, is to be left in this condition. The fortifications on Tortugas are to be left in this condition, for the express reason that there is not enough money in the Treasury to go on with these works. So in my own State; $200,000 was appropriated at the last Congress to erect a naval depot on Blythe Island, near Brunswick, Georgia. The Secretary of the Navy, in response to a call made by a resolution of mine, states that the site has been purchased, but that no other proceedings will be carried on in relation to that work, because the Administration have determined not to commence any new work. If we are not to apply money already appropriated in the commencement of a new work which is considered important to my section and to other sections, I think we ought not to expend so much money on the Capitol of the United States. Let us appropriate $500,000 this year. Let the superintendent dismiss a portion of his employes, and keep the rest in reserve for the next year. We shall meet here in December; an appropriation bill can be passed immediately, if this appropriation should be exhausted in the mean time; and we can then appropriate a sufficient amount to go on with the work to a conclusion. I think it is better, in the condi- tion of the Treasury, that we should spread those expenditures over as great a space of time as possible, so that the work be not delayed or injured by neglect. I am in favor of the least amount of expenditure, and I shall move to strike out the $750,000 reported by the Committee on Finance, and insert $500,000, which I think will be amply sufficient to keep the superintendent and all the necessary workmen engaged there the present year. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment of the Senator from Mississippi to the amendment of the Committee on Finance. Mr. Wade called for the yeas and nays; and they were ordered. The question being taken by yeas and nays, resulted — yeas 23, nays 27. * * * So the amendment to the amendment was rejected. Mr. Davis. I now offer the other branch as a proviso to the amendment of the committee. I propose to strike out the following proviso of the committee’s amendment: Provided , That this appropriation shall not be expended, in whole or in part, upon the embellish- ment or decoration of the Capitol extension, either by painting or sculpture in the panels or niches of the Senate or House, unless the designs for such embellishment and decoration shall have been first submitted to, and approved by, the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress. And insert in lieu thereof: To enable the Library Committee to contract with distinguished artists for historical paintings and sculpture, for the panels and niches of the legislative Halls, and of the great stairways of the Capitol extension, $50,000, in addition to the funds already in their hands for that purpose. Mr. Seward. I ask a division on striking out and inserting. I want to strike out the proviso, but not to insert the substitute. 684 Documentary History of the Capitol. The Presiding Officer. The Chair will say to the Senator from New York that the motion to strike out and insert is not divisible. M r. Hunter. I would suggest to the Senator from Mississippi that perhaps he could accomplish his object in another way. 1 f he dislikes the proviso, I have no objection to its being stricken out. I do not think it accomplishes much, one way or the other. It was merely supposed it might, perhaps, make the appropriation more acceptable to the House of Representatives. I am willing for that to be stricken out, but I am unwilling to vote $50,000 for artists. I think that ought to be postponed. If he chooses to move to strike out, he can move that, and then move to insert the additional appropriation, and he can thus in effect divide the proposition. Mr. Davis. I have no anxiety about the appropriation. The Committee on the Library can go into the question at once. I doubt very much whether they would expend a dollar of the money for a year or two, if it was appropriated now. Mr. Pearce. I will say that I think the proviso entirely unnecessary. 1 am satis- fied that the Library Committee really have no authority to expend any money for the pui'pose of statues and paintings in the niches and panels. The appropriation is designed for the continuation of the building of the structure; and although the proviso is that none of the appropriation shall lie expended for the purposes I have just mentioned, except by the approbation of the Library Committee, the language would seem to imply that, with their approbation, it might be so expended. I am certain if it were left to the Library Committee, they would not now expend a dollar of it in that way. They want the building completed first. All this ornamentation is surplusage; it can be better done afterwards than now. I think it is as well to get rid of the proviso. I do not see any necessity for it. Mr. Davis. Let the question be taken on striking out the proviso. I propose, first, to strike out the proviso of the Committee on Finance. Mr. Collamer. Do I understand the honorable Senator to move that as a division of his motion? The Presiding Officer. It is stated in that form; but it is a separate proposition. Mr. Collamer. I desire to inquire whether the Senator from Mississippi expects to strike out this proviso with a view to inserting anything? Mr. Davis. 1 accepted the suggestion of the Senator from New York, to divide the question. Mr. Collamer. The Chair decided that it could not be divided. Mr. Davis. Let the question he divided, so as to strike out. Mr. Collamer. Then you must modify your motion in that way. Mr. Davis. Very well. The Presiding Officer. The Chair understood the Senator from Mississippi to modify his motion, so as to confine it to striking out the proviso of the amendment of the Committee on Finance. The motion to strike out was agreed to; there being, on a division — ayes twenty- five, noes not counted. The amendment, as modified, was agreed to. [Senate proceedings of June 1, 1858: Congressional Globe, 35 — 1, p. 2588.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1859— Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. * * * Well, sir, here is another little item. I know the Senator from Mississippi and myself will not agree upon that, for he offered an amendment, the other day, to make it $1,100,000 instead of $750,000: For the United States Capitol extension, $750,000. That is a work of great necessity, is it not? With three wars in prospect, Great Britain to come along in the lead, the Treasury exhausted, your tariff too low, here are $750,000 appropriated for the extension of the Capitol We have expended a The Extensions. 685 large sum already upon that extension. In this connection, I will say that I would vote more cheerfully this night for an appropriation of money to pull down these extensions and haul them away, than I would vote for a single dollar to continue them. Look at that old Hall of the Representatives, which comports with our ancient notions of republican simplicity, plainness, and grandeur; compare it with that new Hall which you have constructed, and how does it compare? I expect, for convenience of the times, that we shall have to convert that old Hall — a representa- tion of the fathers of the country — into a grocery, or make a saloon of it, or some- thing of the kind. There is that Hall lying waste which would have answered the purposes of this Government, and which corresponded, too, with our notions of republican simplicity, for the next one hundred years. By a little remodeling and taking out some of these partition walls, this Senate Chamber could have been made capacious enough to have contained everybody that desired to witness and hear what was transpiring in the Senate Chamber. But there are a set of cormorants, con- tractors, stock-jobbers — I will not stop there — plunderers of the Federal Treasury, that hang around, and can make programmes, and draughts, and drawings, and all that description of things, and who appeal to members— Senators and Representa- tives — to do this and do that by way of maintaining the national dignity and char- acter. You must do something in the way of sculpture, something in the way of architecture, something in the way of magnificent buildings, to keep up our importance and maintain our character abroad, so that they can obtain jobs, contracts, specula- tions, and make employment out of the Government, and swindle it of thousands, from which no real good can result. Look at that, new Hall of the House of Representatives, and then recall the descrip- tion given of it by my distinguished friend on my left, [Mr. Houston,] in his remarks on the subject the other day. He was speaking about the goddess of Liberty. I did not know he was such a critic before. I do not make any pretentions of that sort, but it struck me with some force that he was a critic. He was speaking about the unnatural attitude and the position of the figure intended to represent the goddess of Liberty. He disclaimed, however, very gallantly, taking any undue liberties with the goddess; but his criticism, I thought, was merited upon all the gorgeous gilt thrown about the new Chambers, that it does not comport with our character and dignity as a free people. W e talk about republican simplicity. Our public buildings should be erected upon a plan that should combine utility, while, at the same time, consulting appearance, to some extent. Here are three appropriations, of $1,000,000 for water-works; $10,000 for the Mall — a work of great necessity — and $750,000 for the extension of the Capitol. Let me ask every Senator here, and every one that hears me, does the Government need the expenditure of this money now? Would it not be better, coming up to the strict meaning of the term “economy,” so far as that is concerned, to dispense with these extensions, to omit this improvement of the Mall, and let the water- works go where they may, or pay something to get clear of them, than continue them, and make these appropriations at the present time? But even if we are disposed to continue these works, would it not be prudent and judicious to suspend them for the present, until we can see what receipts will be in the Treasury under the operation of the reduced tariff? If we go on making these heavy appropriations, the argument will come in upon us, with tenfold force, to increase the tariff, and make the duties higher. We know this will be so. We now see that the expenditures of the Government have run up to $75,000,000. Let me say to Democrats, Know Nothings, and Black Republicans, in the Senate Chamber of the United States, to-night, if the expenditures of this Government are not arrested, in 1860 the party that stands by and maintains them will be run over by the same irresistible avalanche that swept over the country in 1840. I am no prophet, nor the son of a prophet; but if these things are not arrested, like causes 686 Documentary History of the Capitol. will produce like effects; and 1 tell you, when agitation ceases in the country, in reference to Kansas and negroes South and negroes North, and the public mind can be brought to consider these vast expenditures of the Federal Government, the party that stands by them and maintains them will be run over with an irresistible current, in 1860. I intend, so far as I am concerned, that my skirts shall be clear of these unnecessary, extravagant, and profligate appropriations of the people’s money by the Federal Government. I believe them to be so. I do not intend to be personal to anybody; but I believe them to be so; I know them to be so. Here, then, are three little items, by the striking out of which, we can bring down the expenditures of this Government over a million and three quarters of dollars. When it is pro- posed to do so, however, we are told this is not the place for retrenchment; these works should go on; we are committed to them. You may even go into the States and find works for which the Government have commenced unnecessary appropria- tions; but if there is an attempt made to discontinue them, you are told the work has been commenced, and you must not stop it, or you will lose all that which has been done. Nine times out of ten, it would be better to lose it and go no further with the thing. Here we have commenced the erection of water-works. Do not stop that. Oh, no; that must go on. Then we come to the Mall, and propose to strike out that item, and it will not do to stop that. You come to the appropriation for the extension of the Capitol, and it will not do to apply retrenchment there. If you propose to reduce or strike out any of the appropriations for these improve- ments, you will have to meet the argument — I have been expecting it for some time — here are a great many men employed, and they will be turned out of employment if the proposition should lie agreed to. The mere statement of the argument shows you where we are driving and tending, that the Government must make improve- ments in the shape of extensions of the Capitol, or the adornment of the Mall, or the erection of water-works, or the construction of a harbor, or something else — and for what? To give employment to the people — the most dangerous doctrine that ever was sustained in any government; that the Government must be the undertaker, that the Government must be the giver out of jobs for the sake of giving employment to the great mass of the people! The theory is wrong. Whydolsayso? You are making the people look to the Government for employment; and just in proportion as you make the people dependent on the Government, the Government controls the people, instead of the people controlling the Government. Let the Government be dependent on the people, and let the people fall back on their own resources, on their own avocations, and not look to the Government of the United States, or even to the State governments, for employment; for just in proportion as the people look here for employment, and become dependent on the Government, State or Federal, for employment, in the very same proportion they cease to be freemen; the Govern- ment becomes paramount and the people inferior. But we will be met here, as we are met in every attempt of this kind to reduce our expenditures, by the plea that this is not the place. Oh, no; do not touch that appropriation. When we come along to another item, and propose to reduce that, that is not the place; do not touch that. You come along to another appropriation, and propose to reduce that, and you are told, do not touch that; it is not the place to reform. Mr. President, where is the place? Has anybody ever yet found out the right place? If you happen to find the right place, the next argument you are met with is, that this is not the time to retrench. The term is unmeaning. We go along in time of peace, but that is not the time, that is not the place, and that is not the occasion. When war breaks out, and we talk about retrenchment, it is said it is no time to talk about retrenchment in time of war. Well, when will it come? It is not the time of peace, it is not the proper time in war. I wish we could get an interval between peace and war, to see if that would be the time. I do not think the time will ever come. It never will come until the voice of the people comes in The Extensions. 687 upon the Congress of the United States, and speaks to them in unmistakable language what their feelings and their sentiments are on this subject. I move that from line two hundred and thirty-one down to two hundred and forty be stricken out, and then I shall move that these two other propositions be stricken out; or I would prefer that the vote should be taken on all together, if it would suit, to save time. Mr. Davis. I feel somewhat gratified that the Senator has announced to us that he is not a prophet, and I hope his prophecy, so far as he has made it, will not be verified; that the fate of the Democracy does not hang on the reduction of annual expenses. I rely on the good sense of the people when they examine the gross amount expended, and inquire, also, for what purpose it was done. I hold an Administration responsible that wastes a dollar; I applaud the Administration that judiciously expends $100,000,000 — the more the better, if the country is made richer by the expenditures. The Senator also announces that his skirts will be clear when the sad reckoning which he expects in 1860 arrives. I hope better for the Democracy yet, than that we have reached the condition he speaks of. I have no fear of that crushing out. I have' no fear, if the Administration disburse the appropriations honestly, and show returns for every disbursement worthy of the amount, that the people have not judgment enough to discriminate between that and the simple cry of so many dollars. I concur heartily with the Senator in his remarks against making the Government of the United States the great almoner of the people. I concur with him entirely, that we should not undertake works and make appropriations to give employment to the people; that the Government is but the agent of the peojrle, not to give, but to receive. It struck me somewhat curiously, in connection with an argument which the Senator made recently, that whilst he was striking so fiercely at the very idea (though I do not know that anybody ever announced it) that the Government should give work to the people, he had himself, for many hours together, harangued the Senate to show that the Government ought to give land to the people. What is the difference in principle? Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. Neither the Senator, nor anybody else, ever heard me harangue the Senate for hours, to give land to the people. I have harangued the Senate and the country to permit the people to take that which is theirs. Mr. Davis. That is a very nice distinction. I thought the Government was the trustee for the disposition of the public land, and that it was a part of that revenue which supplied the wants of the Government. I suppose he might as well say the Treasury belonged to the people, and that money should be distributed from the Treasury. What is the difference? The Treasury does belong to the people as much as the land; and if the Government were to give employment to do work, and should have something left, it would be just that much better than dividing the Treasury — just that much better than giving away land. There is one thing, however, Mr. President, I am in favor of giving away; and that is water, and advising the people to drink it pure, to take it simple. I am in favor of washing the streets of the metropolis of the nation; and though I would do nothing simply on that point of national pride that should elevate us to a fair com- parison with any other country, I am not without the sentiment. I do glory in seeing my country advance in everything beyond all others. I do glory in seeing her capital surrounded by monuments of art that show how far our generation has progressed . But this seems to be a point at which the Senator is startled in connection with that which he speaks of as the extension of the Capitol. Now, I do not know that anybody proposes to extend the Capitol any further than the present wings. It is the completion of the buildings which are commenced. One wing already has received the House of Representatives; the other is not prepared to receive the Senate. This money is to complete those wings to receive the committees; to receive 688 Documentary History of the Capitol. the Senate, and give those accommodations which experience has shown the House and the Senate both require. He puts the Senator from Texas in a wrong position. His criticism — though I do not think it at all just — was not in relation to the paint- ing of the House of Representatives. He never mistook the gilding for the goddess of Liberty. The Senator is too good a critic for that. He did find a female statue. It was that which he was describing, and not the gilding of the House of Representatives. But the Senator from Tennessee is struck with the architectural and artistic display in the House of Representatives, and he refers to the old Hall. That old Hall is in a much higher style of architecture than the new. It was the embellishment of that old Hall, in its columns, breaking the sound, that gave back echoes, which rendered it useless for legislative purposes. The old Hall was made for beauty, the new Hall for use. That is the difference. The old Hall was made so beautiful, filled with dead points, or foci, that it was impossible to hear, all over the Hall, any speaker in any position he could occupy. These facts are familiar to the Senator, for he served in that Hall. It interfered with the deliberations; it affected legislation ; it was injurious to the whole country; it was felt by every member of the House. The constant solici- tation was for some change of the Hall that would fit it for hearing and speaking; and despairing of that, they used the only remedy that was possible — the construction of a new one. It is true, you may suspend the work. Both wings are covered in. They would not be injured by suspension so far. The vast material that is collected around here, and which is intended, however, to complete these wings, would suffer, and it would be liable to injury, and at last you would have the amount to spend increased by having interrupted the progress of the work. Now, I do not see the economy of that. But to take the other branch of the Senator’s proposition, to tear down the wings and haul them away — would that be economy? That would involve expense. I see no view in which it strikes my mind. The Senator aptly says, how- ever, that we view the same thing in different lights. There is no view, however, that I am able to take of the subject, which brings either of his propositions within the just meaning of economy, unless it be to stop planting those few trees on the Mall. * * * Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I think the Senator from Mississippi misunderstood w r hat I said in reference to the Senator from Texas. I understood the remarks of the Senator from Texas to be made in reference to the new Senate Hall, and 1 thought I so stated. It was not my intention to locate his criticism, but as I understood it I rather approved it. I pretend not to understand anything about sculpture or paint- ings, or the construction of halls; I do not pretend to have any taste for matters of that kind. If I come into a splendid hall, and look at it, I can tell whether it strikes me as of proper dimensions, and as being properly constructed, taken as a whole. There is something in it that pleases or displeases me. I confess that, when I went into the new Hall of the House of Representatives, it did not strike me as being so imposing, and of a style of architecture so well adapted to the American character, as the old Hall of Representatives. Mr. Davis. It is not as beautiful as the old Hall. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. The old Hall is not gaudy; there are about it no unnec- essary flourishes in guilding and painting; but there is a grandeur, a dignity, a repub- lican simplicity about it, with which the new structure cannot at all compare. I do not care whether you call it beauty or not. I think it is much better adapted to our character. I know an objection was made that it was difficult to hear the Speaker when he was putting a question in the old Hall, and that it was difficult to hear members who were addressing the House; but it seems to me that the same means which have been resorted to in the new Hall to prevent that, could have been applied as a remedy in the old Hall. The structure of the ceiling might have been altered, The Extensions. 689 and in that way a remedy applied. Be that as it may, however. I do not think the reply of the Senator from Mississippi, on that point, has much to do with the remarks I made as to what had been said by the Senator from Texas. The Senator from Mississippi seems to admit that there is one item of the bill to which I object that might be stricken out — the $10,000 for the improvement of the Mall. I infer from his remarks, though he did not say so expressly, that he thinks that is not necessary. He is, however, in favor of giving the citizens of Washington, and those persons who visit Washington, plenty of water — good, pure water, unadul- terated, unmixed. Well, sir, if he were to pass a law of that character, and appro- priate ten times the cost of the water-works to complete them, with a distinct under- standing that the water is not to be adulterated, this city, and the comers to it, would vote down such a proposition at once, for pure water is the last thing they want. [Laughter.] That is not the article they desire. If that was to be the result of the completion of these water-works, the people of Washington would come here en masse, at least two thirds or three fourths of them, and three fourths of all the visitors here, and protest most zealously, earnestly, and emphatically, against the passage of any such law that would give them water without dilution. So, I do not think there is much in that portion of the argument. But, in reply to what I said as to the Government giving employment to the peo- ple, the honorable Senator from Mississippi wants to know if the Government might not as well give employment to its citizens as give them land. Let me ask him how much the expenditure of $10,000 for the Mall, $750,000 for the Capitol extension, and $1,000,000 for the Washington aqueduct, will add to the productive capacity or to the revenue, of the country? Do they bring one cent into the Treasury of the United States? Do they add anything to the productive capacity of the country? You may give a man employment on the work ; you may pay him for days and months and years, while he labors on it; but he appropriates what he gets from the Government to his own support, and does not add anything to the production of the country. So far as he is concerned, I have no objection to the benefit done to him; my objection is on other grounds. But, here is an indirect attack upon the homestead policy. The Senator speaks of it as giving away land. I do not admit that proposition. You have a large amount of public domain — fifteen hundred million acres — that has been acquired by the blood and treasure of the nation. To whom does it belong? The Federal Govern- ment, it is true, holds it in trust for the great mass of the people; and the proposition of the homestead bill is not to give land away, but to permit the head of a family to settle upon and take a part of that which is his, and for which he or his ancestors, or some connected with him, shed their blood and expended their money. Yes, sir; and many of them were with my honored friend on the field of battle. I prize him much higher when I call him Colonel Davis than Senator Davis, for the brighest and most imperishable laurels that encircle his brow were won under the appellation of Colonel. Many of those gallant men who, in Mexico, fought the battles of their country by his side, now sleep in a foreign grave. The result of that war was a large acquisition of territory. That domain was acquired by the LTnited States as a con- sequence of their bravery, their patriotism, and their valor, in the battle-field with him. When I propose that the descendants of those men may go upon, settle, and occupy, a part of that which was won by the blood and the valor of their fathers, live upon it, and cultivate it, so as to make a support for their wives and their chil- dren, I am told that I propose to give away the public property; that these men are here asking charities in land. No, sir; they do not ask you to give them anything; but I demand, in the name of their valor, their blood, their patriotism, and their suffering widows and children, that you let them go and take that which belongs to them, which is the price of their blood and treasure. II. Rep. 6L6 U 690 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Mason. Will the Senator allow me to ask him a question? Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. Certainly. Mr. Mason. If the public lands belong to the people, why do not the people take them without any authority of law? I understand the Senator to say that he has not asked that the land should be given to the people — lands to the landless, and homes to the homeless; but that he asks that the people shall be allowed to take what belongs to them. Now, if the lands belong to the people, why should they require a law to allow them to use them? Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. The Senator is a lawyer, and I will put a case to him. Suppose there was a trustee to hold an estate in his hands for the benefit of heirs; there are certain legal processes required to be gone through with before they can obtain possession of the estate, and use it. The Federal Govern- ment is the trustee of the public domain; but is it the owner of the soil? Is not the equity in the people? The Government being the trustee, we propose a mode according to the forms of law, of permitting the people to take that which belongs to them. Does not this Government belong to the people? Does not all the public domain belong to the people? The Government holds it in trust for the whole; and all we ask is, that you prescribe a mode by which each individual may possess himself of that which is his. Is there anything wrong in that? You have nearly seven million quarter sections of public lands; there are three million heads of families in the United States; and if you permit every head of a family to take a quarter of a section, you would still have half the domain left in the hands of the trustee to be disposed of. Is that giving? No; it is simply permitting each indi- vidual to go and possess himself of a part of that which is his, and not what belongs to anybody else. Who does he take it away from? Who is deprived of anything by permitting a man to go forward, and take a portion of that domain which is actually his? Who is deprived of any right, who is deprived of any soil by it? Nobody. But what is the effect? Leave the land as it is, and it is wholly unproductive; allow it to be occupied, and you increase its production, and of course increase the capacity of the settler upQn it for consumption, and thereby increase the Federal revenue. While you do this for the Treasury, what do you do for the man himself? You give him an interest in the country; you make him a better man and a better voter; he goes to the ballot-box, and votes his own will, not that of his landlord or his master. So much for the land; so much for the pure water. I hope we shall have a vote. Mr. Pearce. I think there are about twenty-four Senators in their seats, and I do not see that we are making much progress in business. I think we had better adjourn, and I make that motion. [From the “Act making Appropriations for the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial Expenses of the Government for the Year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and fifty-nine,” approved June 2, 1858. (Stats, at Large, v. 11, 297.)] For furnishing the committee rooms, retiring rooms, and offices in the south wing of the Capitol extension with gas-fixtures, chandeliers, iron safes, and other furni- ture, forty thousand dollars. [House proceedings of June 7, 1858: Congressional Globe, 35 — 1, p. 2759.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration the Senate amendments to the Sundry Civil bill for 1859 — Twelfth amendment: Page 11, after line twenty-one, insert as follows: For United States Capitol extension, $750,000. The Chairman stated that the hour had arrived at which the debate was closed by the order of the House, and that the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. J. Glancy Jones] was entitled to the floor for one hour. The Extensions. 691 Mr. J. Glancy Jones. I propose to go on and debate the amendments as they come up. I presume the committee understand this amendment of the Senate. The House struck out the appropriation for the Capitol extension, the amount originally being $1,000,000. The Senate have inserted $750,000. The Committee of Ways and Means recommend a concurrence in that amendment. Mr. Taylor, of New York. I offer the following as an amendment to the amend- ment: Provided , That no portion of this appropriation shall be expended for painting or decorating the interior of the Capitol, unless the same be made under the direction of three American artists, to be appointed by the President of the United States; nor shall any contract be made for such painting or decoration except by the Joint Committee on the Library. Mr. Letcher. I raise a question of order on that amendment. The Chairman. The Chair rules the amendment out of order. Mr. Taylor, of New York. I move to amend the amendment by striking out “$750,000.” I hope the House will not concur in the amendment of the Senate. Congress has refused to appropriate money, even in small amounts, for various nec- essary improvements throughout the country which are recommended by the Depart- ments and the Committee of Ways and Means. At present the Capitol is secure, so that it is not necessary to make any further improvements in order to protect it from the weather. The money must, therefore, be expended chiefly on the internal dec- oration of the Capitol, with the exception, probably, of the completion of the Senate Chamber. The money is not immediately necessary for any external work. The appropriation, therefore, can be very well postponed. So far as decoration is concerned, the less money we expend upon the Capitol in decorating it in the manner in which it has been decorated under the present management, the better for us, the better for the Treasury, the better for the artistic taste of the country. We have expended already thousands of dollars on this con- temptible decoration, which is disgraceful to the age and to the taste of the country; and we ought, if we cannot reach it in any other way, to refuse to appropriate one dollar more towards it. 1 hold that the decoration is not only improper, but that it is absolutely disgraceful. Go through this Capitol and see the insignificant tinsel work that has been prepared here to stand for ages as a representation of the taste and skill of this age. Have we no artist to illustrate the history of our country? Can we not write some portion of our country’s history on these v r alls that will per- petuate the character of the present generation? Have we no commerce to illustrate — no history to perpetuate? Have we made no mechanical, no scientific discoveries worthy of record here, that w r e are compelled to employ the poorest Italian painters to collect scraps from antiquity to place upon these walls, as a lasting disgrace to the age — mere tinsel, a libel upon the taste and intelligence of the people? While I am not opposed to an appropriation to complete the Capitol, or any other necessary work in course of construction, I think we ought to cut off the supplies and refuse an appropriation to be expended for painting and illustration under the present management. We ought at least to have some man of artistic taste at the head of this great national work. We have now at the head of it a captain of the engineer corps of the Army, who is not a judge of such work, but he is “ sole monarch of all he surveys.” He, sir, is responsible for the great expense incurred in the decora- tion of this Capitol; the purchase of these desks and chairs; all this tinsel work, and those coats of arms on the ceiling, which cost hundreds of dollars each. They ought not to have cost more than thirty to forty dollars each. One man was employed eighteen months, at ten dollars a day, to illustrate the coats of arms of the States and Territories. Make the calculation and it will be seen that this single item amounts to thousands, when the expense should not have been more than thirty or forty dollars for each illustration. So on through all the items of expenditure. There is no economy, no taste; and Ave pay this enormous amount absolutely to disgrace the country — to have here a perpetual libel upon the artists and artistic taste of the 692 Documentary History of the Capitol. American people. I hope the committee will strike, it out, and that we will make no further appropriation until we have a change in the management of the artistic work of this Capitol. Against the architecture I have nothing to say. I believe that the architect is perfectly competent and worthy of the greatest trust, and I desire no remark I have made to apply to him. But I say that Captain Meigs is unfit to direct the decora- tion of this Capitol. He has neither taste nor skill, and I hold that this committee would do a wrong to the Treasury, to the artists, and to the country, if they fur- nished him with further funds to daub the Capitol with such illustrations. Mr. Quitman. I understand the amendment is to strike out the whole appropria- tion. Now, sir, while I concur in much of what the gentleman from New York [Mr. Taylor] has said on the subject of the general character of the decorations of this Capitol, my principal object in rising is to avail myself of this opportunity to say that when the proposition was originally made to appropriate 11,000,000, 1 voted against it. I will vote against extravagant appropriations at all times, and would have opposed the appropriation originally had I been here. I would have for the capitol of a republic, Mr. Chairman, a structure either in the Ionic or Doric style — in a plain style, without the vast number of decorations with which this Capitol is loaded. But since this work has gone on, it is due to the country and to ourselves that we should finish it properly. As to the style of finish, why that is another matter. This amendment proposes to put a stop to all further appropriations for the Capitol. I take this occasion to say that, as a citizen of the United States, I should be ashamed to look upon this Capitol remaining in its present unfinished condition for years. It must be finished. Shall we plead before the world that we have not the means to complete it? When a stranger inquires, why this unfinished Capitol; why these masses of material which burden the ground and obstruct the avenues to these Halls? must we tell him that we have undertaken what we could not finish — • the work has been suspended because means are wanted to carry it out? No, sir; I would rather borrow the money that the work might go on to its completion. If the appropriation were an original one, I would be inclined to lay down strict rules to prescribe the style of the structure, and the extent of the expenditure. But as this is declared the last appropriation required to finish the Capitol, I will change my vote, and support the appropriation proposed by the Senate. If we refuse to make this last appropriation now, this costly structure will retain its present ragged appearance, the streets and public grounds will remain obstructed with valuable material, which now lies strewed around; and it should be recollected that it will cost something to preserve exposed portions of the building, and to protect the mar- ble and valuable materials. [A message was here received from the President of the United States, by J. B. Henry, his Private Secretary, notifying the House that he had approved and signed sundry bills.] Mr. Taylor, of New York, withdrew his amendment. Mr. J. Glancy Jones. The original appropriation was for $1,000,000; and there was a belief that that sum would complete the building, inclusive of the decorations. The Senate have put in an appropriation for §750,000; and I am now told that every dollar of that sum will be required, not regarding the interior of the building at all. Therefore the gentleman’s object will be accomplished by this Senate amendment. Mr. Taylor, of New York. A^ery well, then, the following amendment will not be objected to: Arid as a proviso, the following: Provided, That no portion of this appropriation shall be expended on the interior painting and decoration of the Capitol. Mr. Sickles. Is that amendment in order? The Chairman. It is not in order, and the Chair sustains the point of order. Mr. Taylor, of New York. I take an appeal from that decision. The Extensions. 693 Mr. Gartrell. I would like to hear some reason for the decision of the Chair. The Chairman. It changes existing law. Mr. Taylor, of New York. I would like to know how it changes existing law? The Chairman. It has been the universal practice of the committee to rule out all amendments which propose changing existing laws. Mr. Jones, of Tennessee. Is there any existing law in relation to this appropria- tion? I say there is none at all. Mr. Sickles. The manner in which the money is to be expended is provided for by existing law. The question being, “Shall the decision of the Chair stand as the judgment of the committee?” it was put, and decided in the negative. So the decision of the Chair was overruled, and the amendment was received. Mr. Taylor, of New York. I deem it to be my duty to say, as I said before, that I have no objection to this appropriation, or to any other appropriation necessary to finish this or any other building of this Government; but I do think it necessary to stop this decoration, and we ought to make appropriations only to finish the build- ing. Let us have sometime for reflection, that we may ascertain how we may best decorate the Capitol, and imprint some portion of our history upon it that may go down to future ages. We can do that at some future time, and I hope the House will sustain the amendment. Mr. Maynard. I desire to propose an amendment to the amendment of the gen- tleman from New York. The Chairman. Another amendment is not in order at this time. Mr. Sickles. I understand that the money appropriated by the Senate amendment is to be chiefly expended on the other wing of the Capitol — for the completion of that portion of the Capitol to be occupied by the coordinate branch of Congress. Now, sir, if at that end of the Capitol they have no wish to impose a limitation upon the expenditure of the appropriation, as to interior decoration or otherwise, I think it is officious in us, and it is going further than we ought to go, to impose here a limitation upon the manner in which their rooms — either the Senate Chamber or the Senate committee-rooms — should be decorated. Mr. Taylor, of New York. I would like to know where the gentleman gets his information that this appropriation is to be expended in any one particular portion of this Capitol. Mr. Sickles. It is for the Capitol extension, and it must be obvious to my colleague that it is not to be expended in the interior decoration of this Hall, for we are occu- pying it, and the interior decoration of the Hall is completed, or nearly so. It is not to be expended in the interior decoration of rooms pertinent to this Hall, for they are completed, or nearly so, and it is too late to impose such a limitation upon the interior decoration of this wing of the building, for they are in such a state of forwardness that to stop them would be a waste of the public money. In the other end of the Capitol these decorations are scarcely begun, especially so far as the Sen- ate Chamber is concerned. The Senate have passed this amendment without any limitation or restriction, and I think it is not our business to put in such limitations here. The question now being upon the amendment of the gentleman from New York, Mr. Taylor, of New York, demanded tellers. Tellers were ordered; and Messrs. Taylor, of New York, and Boyce were appointed. The committee divided; and the tellers reported — ayes 59, noes 67. So the amendment was disagreed to. Mr. Maynard. I offer the following amendment to the Senate amendment: Provided, That no part of the same shall he expended for paintings or statuary. Mr. Letcher. Is that amendment in order? 694 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Maynard. It seems to me, Mr. Chairman, that that is the same question of order that was raised before. The committee has decided it on another amendment of the same general character, overruling the decision of the Chair that it was not in order. It seems to me that this comes within the category, although it is an amend- ment of an entirely different character, so far as relates to the limitation sought to be made. The Chairman. The Chair would rule the amendment to be not in order but for the committee reversing the decision of the Chair before. Yielding to that decision, the Chair entertains it. Mr. Maynard. It is obvious, Mr. Chairman, that this Capitol is eventually to become a vast museum of art, in which paintings and statuary will be the two prom- inent features. Already has a small commencement been made. My object in p>ro- posing this amendment is that the art decorations of this building shall not be pro- vided for till the building itself shall be completed; and that then they shall be the work of American skill and American genius, illustrating not only American history and American scenery, but also the progress of American art. Now, if we simply wanted to fill up this building with fine painting and fine statuary, we would at once send a commission to Europe, and buy up all the best pictures and finest statues we could get. But that is not the object or purpose which, as it seems to me, we ought to aim at. To illustrate. It has been proposed, and that, too, in high quarters, that we should submit one of the panels of the new Capitol to the pencil of a distinguished’French battle painter, Horace Vernet, because it is said that he excels all other battle paint- ers in the world; and it is suggested that he shall be allowed to take as a subject some of the fields of the Revolution, where American and French valor combined was superior to the prowess of Great Britain. I would like to inquire of gentlemen what sort of a picture that would probably be? A French painter — painting what? Why, painting, of course, French valor and French chivalry. Where do you sup- pose, in such a picture as that, would French soldiers stand, and where would stand the poor American, with his rough accouterments and his rough arms, and his awk- ward want of discipline, and his deficiency in all those trappings that go to make up the glitter of war? Why, you would have a painting which, regarded as a matter of history, would tell all coming time that the victories of the Revolution were gained by French soldiers and French valor. When man paints the picture, the lion is apt to appear second best in the fight. And when men come here in after days, and admire one of the paintings — for possibly it might be the most beautiful — our children would be obliged to confess that it was not an American work, but the work of a French master. I would save them this mortification. It may be that American artists are not equal to the artists of the Old World; but at least they are such as we have. They are the best we have; and we will preserve, or we ought to preserve, their works, the creations of their skill and genius, so that, in after times, the state of art in the various stages of our history may be known. I should be sorry to think that this building was to be filled with works of art within the next fifty years. I would have these niches kept empty till subjects and masters were found worthy to till them. There is time enough; no need of haste. We are still, I hope, in the early stages of our national history. At any rate, I will act upon the presumption and the belief that it is to run on for centuries to come. I would go on spending money in completing the architecture of the building, and leave its deco- rations to time. Art is a thing which must grow. It results from the demands of the public taste, and can be created in no other way. It is not a commercial com- modity. It is the combined product of individual genius and general cultivation. To send out an order for a beautiful statue or beautiful picture would be, to my mind, almost as unreasonable as to give an order for an epic poem, or an eloquent speech. In this view, I have offered the amendment, that we may have the building com- pleted before we proceed to decorate it. The Extensions. 695 Mr. Crawford. There can be no possible use in the adoption of the amendment by the House. The amount originally asked for this work, and which was reported by the Committee of Ways and Means, was §1,000,000. The Senate, in the outset, inserted a provision similar to that proposed by the gentleman from Tennessee. Subsequently they reduced the amount of the appropriation to §750,000, for the very express purpose of avoiding any difficulty that might arise in regard to the decora- tion. There can, therefore, be no necessity for the amendment, as the §750,000 will necessarily be applied to the completion of the structure, and not to ornamenting the walls. I concur with the gentleman from Tennessee that we are not in a condition at this particular time to decorate these Halls. The condition of the public Treasury, the commerce and condition of the country, and many other reasons, might be assigned why it would be proper to limit the appropriation, and to direct, by legis- lative authority, that no part of it shall be used for the purpose to which the gentle- man has referred, if there were any danger of its being done. But there is no earthly danger of it, because the whole amount of the appropriation will be needed for the building itself, and no part of it will be used for the paintings descriptive of our revolutionary history, to which the gentleman has alluded. I hope, therefore, that we shall dispose of this question, and that gentlemen will be satisfied that the money will be used as I have indicated, and applied entirely to the structure itself. The whole question has been considered by the Senate, and the Senate was satisfied that the §750,000 would be necessary for that purpose. Mr. Taylor, of New York. I have no doubt that the §750,000 will be required to finish the building; but if that be true, what objection is there to the amendment? Mr. Crawford. The only objection to it is, that it clogs and embarrasses the passage of the bill, and only affords opportunity for gentlemen to get off speeches here in opposition to Captain Meigs. Gentlemen who are opposed to Captain Meigs, and wish him supplanted, take occasion, in reference to this appropriation, to express their disapprobation in regard to the conduct of that officer — a faithful one, in my judgment, and one who has been attacked by various individuals, and from various quarters, for the reason that he has taken care of the public funds, and has not per- mitted these individuals who assail him to fasten themselves upon the public Treas- ury, and be supported out of the people’s money. The §750,000 will be applied, as I have said, to the completion of the building. I have no doubt that it will be properly applied; and therefore I am opposed to the amendment, Mr. Maynard. With the permission of the gentleman, 1 wish to disclaim any unkind feeling, personal or otherwise, towards Captain Meigs, for I have none. I believe that he is a good officer, and prompt and attentive in the discharge of his duties. I have not one word to say against him; and my amendment was not offered with a view of animadverting upon him. Mr. Crawford, I am very glad to hear it, for he is justly entitled to your good opinion. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Sickles. 1 would ask the gentleman from Tennessee to modify his amendment by adding to it the words: “except in payment for work already ordered and now being performed.” The manifest justice of that will be apparent to the gentleman. Mr. Maynard. I am unwilling to accept that modification, simply because I do not know what has been ordered. Mr. Tayloy, of New York. I wish to offer an amendment. The Chairman. No further amendment is in order. Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. Is there an amendment to the amendment pending? The Chairman. There is the Senate amendment, and there is an amendment to that pending. Mr. Sickles. I would say to the gentleman from Tennessee that all the sculpture now being done is being done by American artists, and the result of his amendment will be that they will get no pay. 696 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. Do I understand the Chair to decide that the Senate amendment being the original text, an amendment to an amendment is not in order? The Chairman. The Chair has so decided in conformity with the decision made by the committee, when the gentleman from Indiana [Mr. English] was in the chair, when the question arose, and was decided by the committee after discussion. Mr. Taylor, of New York. I must appeal from the decision of the Chair. The Chairman. The Chair would be very glad to have the decision reversed, as it is not in accordance with the judgment of the p resent occupant of the Chair. Mr. Stanton. I know the practice has been frequently otherwise in Committee of .the Whole. The Chairman. That is so, and the other practice would conform to the opinion of the present occupant of the Chair; but the decision of the gentleman from Indiana, when in the chair some days since, ivas sustained by a very full vote of the House, and the Chair, therefore, conformed its decision to that ruling of the committee. Mr. Taylor, of New York. I withdraw the appeal, but I desire to place myself cor- rectly on the record with regard to the remarks of the gentleman from Georgia, and I ask one moment’s indulgence for that purpose. Mr. Morgan. I object to any debate. Mr. Taylor, of New York. The gentleman always objects to information, because he has got none. Mr. Morgan. I object to gentlemen who are always disturbing the House. Mr. Taylor, of New York. I call for tellers on the amendment. Tellers w r ere not ordered. The committee divided; and the Chairman reported — ayes twenty-four, a further count not being demanded. So the amendment was rejected. Mr. Branch. I move to reduce the appropriation from §750,000 to §200,000. Mr. Chairman, my reason for making the motion is this: while Congress declares to the country that it cannot carry on public works in any section of the country — that works under contract, even, must be suspended — §200,000 is enough to expend in one year upon this structure. I submit whether we can justify ourselves to our constitu- ents or to the country in appropriating such large sums for this Capitol and the Washington aqueduct, while we are suspending public works of great importance in the North and South, the East and West? I am not opposed to their completion. I want to see them finished, and in a manner creditable to the country, and justified by its wealth and power. It is not my object to stint appropriations for the Capitol, but I do think, sir, that under existing circumstances §200,000 is enough to be expended on it in one year, and I wall not vote for any bill that contains an appro- priation of §750,000 for it. My vote may be unnecessary. These bills may pass without it. I may be wrong in my judgment, for I am fallible like other men; nevertheless, sir, it is my conviction that unless other works are to have something out of the Treasury — unless works gone on with for years are completed — I cannot vote for this appropriation for the Capitol. Mr. Chairman, I have no disposition to engage in a discussion as to the decorations of this structure. I am no judge of them. My friend from Tennessee [Mr. May- nard] says that this is to be a great museum of art. Not so do I care to look at it altogether. I desire that it may be a great temple of American patriotism, American eloquence, and American wisdom. Instead of battle scenes of the past emblazoned upon these panels, I care more to see these seats occupied by men of wisdom and sound statesmanship. Instead of illustrations of American and French achievements in the past painted upon the walls, let us seek rather to illustrate the future history of our country by the magnitude of the deeds originated here, and by the prosperity that shall flow from the acts of those who shall fill these Halls. If we shall do our duty, and those who come after us shall do their duty, neither the brush nor the The Extensions. 697 chisel will be needed to perpetuate the glories of the Republic. Let them rather follow than precede the great events that are to originate here. The amount proposed by my amendment will be sufficient to finish the portions of this building which are needed for practical use. We are in possession of the Representatives Hall; and it will be seen, by going into the other wing, that the Senate Chamber is nearly ready for occupancy. For $200,000, then, every portion of this building needed for the purposes of legislation can be completed. What need is there for pressing the building forward with such hot haste? Are there not other works which demand our attention? Are there not works which need our help in every section of the Union? Why, then, take all the money from the Treasury to hurry on this building? Is there any absolute necessity for its completion this year, or next year? I see none. And it is usually regarded as most judicious not to erect so massive a structure with so much rapidity. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Crawford. I concur in the views which have been presented by my friend from North Carolina, and I would cheerfully go with him to accomplish the purpose which he so much desires, if it w r ere possible for me to do so in view of the obliga- tions which we are under by virtue of public contracts which have been made with certain parties in reference to the completion of this Capitol. I am aware that the gentleman would not be willing to repudiate a single debt which we have contracted in reference to this or any other national work. Contracts have been entered into for supplying materials to carry on this work; and while it has not been my purpose to increase the expenditures of this Government under the present revulsion in our commercial affairs; yet I would tax the utmost credit of this country rather than repudiate a single dollar which our public officers, under authority of law r , have con- tracted to pay. Ships have been built, I will inform my friend, for the purpose of delivering here materials for this work. It would require more than two hundred thousand dollars to pay the damages which these contractors would insist that the United States should pay for the failure of the Government to comply with its contract. I would be as much delighted as any man to see both Halls of Congress occupied by men of the most wisdom and talent that this country can command. I would rejoice to see here once more, upon these honored seats, such men as Calhoun, Clay, and Webster. With such men as these, we ought to have a Government both pure and powerful, a statesmanship of the highest order, and all that makes a nation great and renowned. While I would be glad of all this, yet that is not the question now before us. Shall we comply with our contracts? It is to that we must address ourselves. The extension of the nation’s Capitol has been commenced; whether wisely or unwisely, is not now for us to judge. Were it an original question, I would exert my influence to prevent such an enormous expenditure of money; but, sir, it is now too late; we cannot,, if we would, retrace our steps; we must complete the work, let the cost be what it may; and when done, it will do honor both to the architect and to our country. I, for one, am willing to vote not only $750,000, but $1,000,000 for the purpose of meeting our engagements if so much shall be necessary. But, sir, the Senate amend- ment has been well considered in the other branch of Congress, and they are satisfied that to complete these structures will require this whole amount without any refer- ence to decoration. If we shall therefore refuse to appropriate, we shall be violating existing contracts which have been entered into; and in that view of the question I hope the committee will refuse to strike out the $750,000. If they do that, we shall have claims presented here, year after year, for damages arising from breach of con- tracts made by public officers. The question was taken on the amendment of Mr. Branch ; and it was not agreed to. Mr. Garnett. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike out “$750,000” and insert “$150,000.” I concur entirely with what has been said by my friend from North Carolina, but 698 Documentary History of the Capitol. my especial object is to protest against the doctrine avowed by the gentleman from Georgia, [Mr. Crawford. ] He takes the position that contracts have been made, and therefore we are bound to comply with them. I desire to ask him whether a single reform has been attempted, or a reduction of expenses proposed this session, but some existing contracts have been urged to defeat it? I have not yet heard a single reduction proposed, where there has not been a contract lurking in ambush to defeat it. Now, sir, there is no law authorizing these contracts. There was a definite sum appropriated to continue the Capitol, and Mr. Meigs, or his subordinates, had no right to go beyond that sum. I desire to call the attention of the gentleman from Georgia to what appeared in the newspapers some time ago. It w r as a notice from Captain Meigs to the workmen upon the Capitol extension that they could no longer be employed, because the appropriation was exhausted, and that he had no right to incur liabilities beyond the appropriation. And yet the gentleman from Georgia talks about contracts. A number of the workmen were dismissed upon that occasion, and I commend Captain Meigs for the notice, because it was one of the few symptoms of a desire upon the part of the officers of the Government to comply with the laws regulating expenditures under their charge. I wish to say, further, that I consider the whole extension an extravagant failure. Take this Hall, for instance. Here is a room for business; a Hall for practical legis- lation. And what is it? An exhausted receiver; a sarcophagus for the living; a place shut out from the open air of heaven. Here we are inclosed in a vault, breath- ing a poisonous atmosphere, and suffering the close heat of an oven. What is it all for? Do yoxr know that after all this extravagant extension of the Capitol, our com- mittees and our clerks and other officers say there is not room enough to accommo- date them? Why? Because this Hall has been made too large; its size was not calculated for the benefit of members in doing business, but to accommodate five thousand spectators in the galleries. In other words, the vulgar idea of modem improvement, as exemplified in this Capitol, is to erect a circus where five thousand spectators can be brought together. Again, what is the style of the adornment of this Hall? It is gingerbread and tinsel work. The attempt to defend it by talking of the harmony of colors and the poly- chromic style, is absurd. It is unjust to that style, which it does not illustrate, but caricatures. Congress ought to cut down the appropriation to a sum merely sufficient to keep the work alive until we have time to revise the whole plan. And then there is the ventilation of this House. This plan of ventilation without windows was tried, as I am told, in the new palace at Westminster, and the result was they had to change the plan and knock windows in the sides. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Crawford. I desire to say, in reply to the gentleman from Ahrginia, that the advertisement to which he has alluded has reference entirely to the laborers employed about the Capitol; and I apprehend the gentleman has never taken the trouble to read the contracts which had been entered into between Mr. Guthrie and certain other parties, to deliver materials out of which this Capitol and other public works have to be completed. I announce to this House thatthere is a contract entered into between Mr. Guthrie and certain other parties for delivering, in this city, certain materials, to be paid for upon delivery; and any less sum than that proposed in the Senate amendment will be insufficient to meet those contracts. Upon this statement, I leave the matter with the committee. Mr. Sherman, of Ohio. Under what law, or color of law, was this contract made by Secretary Guthrie? Mr. Crawford. I do not remember. There have been three contracts made — two, at least — by the Secretary of the Treasury, under some authority— perhaps a resolu- tion of Congress. That is my impression. Mr. Sherman, of Ohio. Such contracts are in existence now, but there is no law authorizing them. The Extensions. 699 The amendment offered by Mr. Garnett was not agreed to. Mr. Davis, of Maryland. I move to increase the amount $100,000, merely for the purpose of making an observation. Gentlemen upon both sides of the House have spoken about the public works here and elsewhere being carried on by contract, of the appropriations being exhausted, and of the necessity of making an additional- appropriation to relieve the Government from damages. The Secretary of the Treas- ury, as you, sir, are aware, sent to the Committee of Ways and Means an application for appropriations for public works beyond the amount asked by his annual esti- mates. The only ground suggested for such application was that the works had been progressing with uncommon rapidity, on account of the low price of materials and labor, and that the Department had made contracts which they were bound to fulfill under penalties for damages. Now, sir, with the exception of but one or two cases, I believe, all the laws authorizing the building of post offices, custom-houses, and even this Capitol extension, resolve themselves into mere appropriations of so much money to accomplish the purpose. I wish now to ask gentlemen who have spoken about contracts, where they find a law for making a contract beyond the limit of the amount of money appropriated? There is no law, which I know of, on the statute-books, which anywhere authorizes it; and there is the law of 1820 which distinctly, and in terms, forbids it. The law to which I call attention is the act of 1st May, 1820, which directs that “no contract shall hereafter be made by the Secretary of State, or of the Treasury, or of the Department of War, or of the Navy, except under a law authorizing the same” — that is, a law authorizing the head of the Department to make the particular contract referred to — “or under an appropriation adequate to its fulfillment.” When, therefore, any Department comes before us, and speaks about the existence of a contract and the necessity of an additional appropriation to meet it, in the absence of a specific law authorizing it to make that particular contract, I say it is a confession on its part of its own violation of the law. I suppose there is scarcely one instance where there has been anything like an authority vested in either Department to make a contract, or to carry on any one of these public works beyond the extent of the money appropriated from year to year for that purpose. There is, therefore, no pressure upon us because of contracts unfulfilled; but, if the contract exist, and there be no law to authorize it, and the money is expended, the contract itself is illegal and void as to the residue. Mr. Taylor, of New York. I rise to oppose the amendment, and to explain the remark which I made in regard to Captain Meigs. The gentleman from Georgia [Mr. Crawford] seems to think that gentlemen here have moved amendments for the purpose of getting off speeches against Captain Meigs. I do not know whether the gentleman referred to me: but I was the only gentleman who men- tioned the captain’s name in debate. If he referred to me, I take this opportunity to assure the gentleman that he is entirely mistaken. I moved the amendment in good faith, and am responsible to my constituents, not the gentleman. 1 have no unkind feeling to Captain Meigs. I believe him to be a highly honorable man, and I would not utter a word reflecting on his character or integrity. I believe him to be perfectly competent for every branch of his business as an engineer. But I do think — and I refer the country to the illustration w r e have in this Capitol — that he is totally unfit to direct the decorations of the Capitol. That, however, is not intended as a reflection on his character as a gentleman or an officer. I esteem him as much as any gentleman: but I do not admire his appreciation of the fine arts. If it could be provided, that no portion of this $750,000 is to be expended in such work, I would not object to the appropriation; but I do not believe that such would be the case. I agree with the gentleman that we should fulfill our contracts. I think that $250,000, or perhaps $500,000, will be sufficient for this. For the decorations of the Capitol, we ought to postpone till some other time. The question was taken on Mr. Davis’s amendment; and it was not agreed to. 700 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. J. Glancy Jones. I move to increase the appropriation one dollar. I do it for the purpose of making a very short reply to my friend from Maryland. The only law on which these Government buildings are constructed, is a law of 1789, which located the seat of Government in the city of Washington. There is no specific act for any of these buildings. The law' is a sort of organic law'; and, by virtue of it, w r e might continue to add to the Capitol till it would be five miles long. It has been the practice of Congress, when it makes an appropriation for the extension or con- tinuation of a public building, to do so on the submission of a general plan; and that plan is generally of a character that compels the Secretary to make his contracts for materials. For instance: if an appropriation of $100,000 be made to keep men in employment, and if the Secretary could only make a contract w'ith those who supply the marble to furnish materials to that extent, there would be a loss of one half. But he makes his contract on the plans submitted to and approved by Con- gress, on the supposition that the appropriation is to be a continuous one. If he did not do so, the whole plan might be a failure. Mr. Clemens. I desire to call the attention of the gentleman from Pennsylvania to the act of the 31st of August, 1852, which provides specifically for the mode by which contracts shall be made for work and materials in the extension of the Capitol. The gentleman from Pennsylvania and the gentleman from Maryland were both mis- taken in saying that there was no law' in existence authorizing the extension of the Capitol. Mr. J. Glancy Jones. That law did not authorize it. Mr. Clemens. It prescribes the mode of making appropriations. It points out specifically the mode of advertisement, and provides the mode and manner in which the contracts shall be made, and the parties with whom the contracts shall be made. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Davis, of Maryland. The argument of the gentleman from Pennsylvania amounts very much to this: that when a law' is passed which cannot be executed without violating it, the Secretary of the Treasury is at liberty to violate it. Suppose the plan for the extension of the Capitol, or the construction of any great w'ork, were not a thing made at the Department, but incorporated in the law Mr. J. Glancy Jones. Will the gentleman permit me to state what I did mean to say? I meant to say, not that the Secretary could violate the contract, but that the plan itself was part of the contract, and there was a continuous appropriation to carry out the contract. Mr. Davis, of Maryland. That is all very true; but still it does not affect this one question, whether there is any authority in the Department to make a contract beyond the limits of the appropriation? When Congress, for instance, appropriated $100,000 to build an extension of the Capitol, on such plan as the President might direct, that justified the President in accepting the plan in accordance AA'ith the extent and magnificence of the existing work. But w'hen he had determined on the plan, there would haA'e been authority for him to make that building according to that plan, in one contract, beyond the amount of $100,000, then appropriated. He had a right to make the plan. He had a right to make contracts for the carrying out of that plan as far as he could to the extent of the $100,000 appropriated. If it was an improvident mode of appropriation, if a greater amount ought to have been appropriated, then it Avas the fault of Congress in not making it, and at their door lay the responsibility. The fact that the work could not be done as cheaply by separate contracts as by one continuous contract — by a contract covering $100,000 as by one covering $3,000,000 — Avas a matter not submitted to his discretion. It rested in the discretion of Congress; and if Congress saw fit, whether from carelessness or perA'ersity, to Avaste the people’s money, it Avas no part of the President’s business to make them be economical, according to his ideas of propriety. If there Avas a law authorizing the The Extensions. 701 President to make a contract to construct the whole building, then, whether Con- gress appropriated the money for it or not, that contract would be binding; but when we merely direct that the building shall be constructed, and appropriate $100,000, then, from year to year, the contracts must, under penalty of violating the law of 1820, stop at the limits of the appropriations. The contracts may be as large as the plan, but they must contain a provision that they shall not be obligatory beyond the amount of the existing appropriations, or they are illegal and void. I specify the Capitol, merely by way of example. In other words, in the absence of a law authorizing a specific contract, there can be no such thing as a contract on the part of the Government which could bind the Government beyond the appropriation to the extent of a single cent. The act of 1798, to which the gentleman from Pennsyl- vania referred, has, and can have, no relation to the subject. [Here the hammer fell. ] Mr. J. Glancy Jones. I withdraw the amendment. Mr. Marshall, of Kentucky. I move to amend the amendment of the Senate by adding thereto the following: Provided, That none of this appropriation shall be expended in the embellishment of any pait of the Capitol extension with sculpture and painting, unless the designs for the same shall have under- gone the examination of a committee of distinguished artists, not to exceed three in number, to be selected by the President; and that the designs which said committee shall accept, shall also receive the subsequent approbation of the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress. The committee will recognize this as the same amendment the committee adopted at my instance before this bill was sent to the Senate. I came into the Hall just as the gentleman from Georgia [Mr. Crawford] was saying that the investigation by the Senate had established the fact that the whole $750,000 would be wanted for the architectural part of the extension. For one, I am willing to give $750,000, if it is required, to execute the architectural design of this building; but I am not willing to give a cent for the embellishment of this building by paintings or sculpture, unless it shall be covered by this condition. If there be no design except that which the gentleman from Georgia intimates, then my amendment will not be in his way, or in the way of the architect of this building. I have no desire, sir, to attack the engineer who has charge of this w'ork. Although I do not consider him a Phidias, or a Michael Angelo, I do not want to attack him. But I do not want to see the work of embellishment progress as it has gone on. The House has already raised a committee for the purpose of considering a memorial which I presented in regard to the propriety of encouraging the native artists of this country, by giving them an opportunity to exhibit their genius upon the Capitol. I trust there will be no opposition to the adoption of my amendment. Mr. J. Glancy Jones. We have had considerable debate upon this item, and as I have already stated that not one dollar of this appropriation will be used for the purpose of embellishment, I hope the amendment will be adopted by the committee. It can do no possible harm. The question was taken on Mr. Marshall’s amendment; and it was agreed to. Mr. Jones, of Tennessee. I wish to propose an amendment before the question is taken on the Senate amendment. It is as follows: For whitewashing the interior of the Hall of the House of Representatives, $10,000. I have no speech to make in favor of it. I think that gentlemen have the evidence before them that it requires some alteration and some whitewashing. [Laughter.] Mr. Taylor, of New York. I agree with the gentleman from Tennessee, but I think the amount is too large. Mr. Curtis. The gentleman had better refer the whitewashing business to one of the select committees. [Laughter. ] The amendment to the amendment was rejected. The amendment as amended was agreed to. 702 Documentary History of the Capitol. [Senate proceedings of June XI, 1S58: Congressional Globe, 35 — 1, p. 2952.] VENTILATION OF PUBLIC BUILDINGS. Mr. Seward submitted the following resolution; which was considered by unami- mous consent, and agreed to: Resolved, That the President of the United States, if, in his judgment, compatible with the public interest, communicate to the Senate such information as the Executive Departments may afford of the contracts, agreements, and arrangements which have been made, and of proposals which have been received, for heating and ventilating the Capitol extension, the Post Office, and other public buildings in course of construction, under the management of Captain Meigs, and of the action of the Secretary of War and Captain Meigs thereon. [On Jan. 25, 1860, President James Buchanan transmitted to the Senate, in com- pliance with the above, papers and correspondence relating to the heating and venti- lating apparatus of the Capitol extension: 36 — 1, Senate Ex. Doc. No. 20, compris- ing 254 pages.] [From the “Act making Appropriations for sundry Civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and fifty-nine,” approved June 12, 1858. (Stats, at Large, v. 11, 323.)] For United States Capitol Extension, seven hundred and fifty thousand dollars: Provided, That none of this appropriation shall be expended in embellishing any part of the Capitol extension with sculpture or paintings unless the designs for the same shall have undergone the examination of a committee of distinguished artists, not to exceed three in number, to be selected by the President, and that the designs which said committee shall accept shall also receive the subsequent approbation of the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress, but this provision shall not be so construed as to apply to the execution of designs heretofore made and accepted from Crawford and Rogers. [Annual report of Capt. M. C. Meigs, in charge of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 15, 1858. (35—2, House Ex. Doc. No. 2, v. 2, pt. 2, p. 748.)] Office of the Extension of the Capitol, Washington, November 15, 1858. Sir: I have the honor to report the progress during the past year of the works of the extension of the Capitol. A few days after the date of my last annual report I had the honor to inform you that the new hall of representatives was completed and ready for use. Some delay in occupying it was caused, I believe, by the apprehension of members that the walls were not dry enough for health; but a special committee having been instructed to examine the hall, made the following report on the 14th December: The special committee to examine into and report on the condition of the new hall of representatives in the south wing of the Capitol, and when it will be safe to occupy it, respectfully report: That they visited and inspected the hall on the morning of the 12th instant. Some of the members of the committee had supposed that, the room having been lately finished, the walls must necessarily be damp. But on consulting with the superintendent, Captain M. C. Meigs, of the Corps of Engineers, they were informed that the walls of the chamber had been built for two or three years, and the interior walls supporting the galleries, and the walls under the floor for several months; that they were all laid in brick and cement, which dries much more rapidly than com- mon lime mortar. There was no appearance of dampness about the room or walls, excepting where the first plastering, having been injured in putting up the door- frames, had been removed and replaced, to a small extent, by fresh plaster, which of itself had been upon the walls for some two weeks. A hygrometer above the Speaker’s desk indicated a dry atmosphere; and, so far The Extensions. 703 as the committee could judge from their own sensations, the air in the room was as dry as that of any ordinary apartment. They found the room warm, well lighted, and ventilated by a supply of air, which they are assured by Captain Meigs, the superintendent, was flowing through the room at the rate of not less than eleven thousand five hundred feet per minute, as determined by observations at the inlet passages by a delicate anemometer. The temperature had been designedly raised rather higher than Avas agreeable, in order, by driving through the room a large quantity of air at a high temperature, to raise that of the large body of masonry in the flues under the floor, which had been chilled by the cold weather immediately preceding the meeting of Congress and the completion of the heating apparatus. The two fans — one of which is intended to drive air through the large coil of steam pipes provided for heating the House of Representatives, and the other through the numerous coils arranged in different parts of the cellars to supply heat to the com- mittee rooms, lobbies, and corridors of the building — are not yet completed. But as the air, warmed by the steam coils, rises into the rooms in sufficient quantity, in consequence of the difference in specific gravity of heated and cold air, the heating and ventilation of these rooms were found to be in a very satisfactory state, the only fault to be found with them being that they were, perhaps, too warm. This heat, however, is under perfect control, and can be increased or diminished at pleasure. The supply of air to the representatives’ chamber, at the time of the committee’s visit, has already been stated at eleven thousand five hundred feet per minute, by actual measurement. They were informed that the fan which is being built for the supply of the hall, will be variable of supplying one hundred thousand cubic feet per minute — a quantity sufficient to change entirely the air contained in the hall every five minutes; the cubic contents of the hall and galleries being four hundred and sixty-five thousand cubic feet. The members’ retiring room, the Speaker’s room, the Clerk’s rooms, the room for the Sergeant-at-Arms, the current document rooms, the cloak and hat and wash rooms are conveniently arranged near the hall, and are ready to be furnished and occupied. The south lobby and the private stairs are so arranged as to admit of cutting off all the above rooms from the admission of strangers, and reserving them for the sole use of the House; and this the committee recommend to be done by order of the House. For the official reporters of the House a convenient desk, immediately under the Clerk’s desk, is provided, and for the accommodation of the reporters of the public press there is ample room in the gallery immediately over the Speaker’s chair and east of the railing. The committee recommend that this part of the gallery and the room immediately behind it in the third story be set apart for their use, and pro- vided with desks and conveniences for taking and writing out their notes. The telegraphic wires should also be introduced into this room, so as to permit the trans- mission of intelligence direct from the reporters to the distant press. By this means the report of an hour’s speech might be completely set up in New York within fifteen minutes after its delivery. The corridors leading to the hall are dry and comfortable. In some of them the tile floors are not yet laid, but there is no reason for waiting until this is done. The floors are of brick and can remain in their present condition until the termination of the session, the tiles in the meantime being stored in the cellar. For the present the committees and the officers of Congress whom it may not be convenient to accommodate can remain in the old building, to which there will be convenient access through a covered passage leading from the new directly to the old hall, which it will enter by the window-door behind the Speaker’s chair. The committee made some trial of the acoustic qualities of the room. They found very little reverberation — so little as not to interfere with distinctness of hearing; and ascertained by trial that not only could all that was said at the Speaker’s desk 704 Documentary History of the Capitol. be heard on all parts of the floor and galleries, but that the voice from each member’s desk or from any part of the galleries could be easily made audible in all parts of the room, without raising it above the tone required in speaking across a table. There may be some little inconvenience and interruption of work upon unfinished parts of the building outside of the hall, but the hall itself is completely ready for the use of the House; and, in view of the great advantages in the comfort, convenience, and health of the members; the great improvement in the transaction of the legisla- tive business, from the perfect acoustic qualities of the room insuring to every mem- ber, wherever his seat may be, the ability to be heard and understood when he may address the House; and in view of the fact that the immense expenditure of the Capitol extension has been incurred solely for the purpose of providing such rooms for the deliberations of Congress, they cannot hesitate to recommend that the House avail themselves of the use of this room as soon as possible. Some furniture and books for current use it will be necessary to remove, and some lumber and rubbish yet encumber the approaches. These can all, in their opinion, be removed by Wednesday morning, and they therefore recommend the adoption of the following resolution: “Resolved, That when this House adjourns to-morrow it will adjourn to meet in the new hall of representatives, in the south wing of the extension of the Capitol, on Wednesday at noon.” The resolution of the committee was adopted, and on the 16th of December the House of Representatives for the first time assembled in the new hall. The first public use of the hall was on Sunday, the 13th of December, on which day divine service was held in it, the Rev. G. D. Cummins officiating. When the charge of the Capitol extension was committed to me in April, 1853, my attention was particularly directed by your predecessor, the Hon. Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War, to the great importance of providing rooms suited by their acoustic qualities, by their warming, ventilation, and lighting for the purposes of legislation. In his instructions to me on taking charge of the work I was told: ‘ ‘ The great object of the extension of the Capitol is to provide rooms suitable for the meeting of the two houses of Congress — rooms in which no vitiated air shall injure the health of the legislators, and in which the voice from each member’s desk shall be easily made audible in all parts of the room. These problems are of difficult solution, and will require your careful study.” I was fully impressed with the difficulty and importance of the question; for the whole vast expenditure of the extension of the Capitol may be said to have been incurred almost solely because the representative chamber in the old building was so unfortunate in its acoustic qualities. The great difficulty of speaking and hearing in it seriously affected the course of legislation. The influence of a member in debate depended too much upon the possession of strength of voice to make itself heard through the irregular echoes and reverberations of the hall, and many men, finding the effort to speak exhausting and injurious, were forced to abandon the attempt to exercise that influence upon the legislation of the country to which their talents and their acquirements entitled them. The defects of the room led to disorder and irregularity, and it was to be hoped that if a room could be constructed in which an ordinary voice could be distinctly heard by every member on the floor, it would lead to greater attention to the debates and a better understanding of the important subjects constantly coming before the House. In attempting the study of this subject I found little settled or satisfactory, and the state of the science may be summed up in the evidence of Faraday before a British parliamentary commission, when examined in regard to the plans of the new houses of parliament then under consideration. He stated that he did not think it would be possible to prepare plans beforehand The Extensions. 705 which should certainly accomplish the object of securing a good room for speaking and hearing; that an architect might fail because he was not a scientific man, and a scientific man because he was not an architect; that his own lecture room at the Royal Institution was a good room, but he did not know the reason why. The results of my studies were a recommendation to abandon the plans of the legis- lative halls and the whole interior arrangement of the new wings of the Capitol as then under construction, and the adoption of plans which I had the honor of present- ing. That of the new hall of representatives, as since constructed in the south wing r was presented to the Hon. Secretary Davis on the 19th of May, 1853, with a report upon the reasons for adopting it and the principles upon which it was based, which was printed in the annual report from this office of October 22, 1853. — (See Ex. Doc. No. 1, 33d Congress, 1st session, part II, pages 79 to 84.) The propriety of the course adopted and the success of the plans have been proved by the use of the hall during the last winter, as is shown by the following letter, which I had the honor to receive from the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon. James L. Orr: Anderson, South Carolina, August 13, 1858. Sir: At an early period during the last session of Congress you requested me to give my opinion of the fitness of the new hall of the House of Representatives for the purposes of its erection. I delayed responding to your request until the close of the session, that I might form an opinion upon such observation, at all seasons and under all circumstances, as would be definite and satisfactory. It has been occupied from December until the middle of June — seasons of the low- est and highest temperature of cold and heat; it has been occupied with crowded galleries and empty benches, by day and by night; and under all circumstances, in its acoustics, its ventilation, its heating, its lighting, and its conveniences for the comfort of members and the transaction of business, I consider it eminently suc- cessful. When order is preserved an ordinary voice can be heard distinctly in the remotest part of the hall or galleries. I presume there is no hall in the world, having so large a number of square feet within its walls, where the speaker is heard with so little effort on his part. The ventilation is equally successful. The densest crowd in the galleries, during the most protracted sittings, breathed a fresh atmosphere, free from all heaviness or impurity. The heating apparatus is so perfect that the engineer had only to be notified what temperature was desired, when in a few minutes it was supplied. The arrangement for lighting the hall is admirable. Not a burner is seen, and yet such a flood of softened light is poured down through the stained glass ceiling of the hall that it was difficult to distinguish when the day ended and the night commenced. The hall and its fixtures are a splendid triumph of your professional skill, and will ever remain a proud monument to your genius. I am, sir, very respectfully, yours, &c., James L. Orr, Speaker . Captain M. C. Meigs, Engineer, &c., Washington. It is with no ordinary satisfaction that I am able thus to place upon record the proof of the complete success of the work committed to me, and upon which I have been so long engaged. I believe that in the influence to be exerted upon the legislation of the country, by the great advantages this hall affords in the more intelligent transaction of the public business; in the greater facilities for seeing and hearing, and thus of understanding what is before the House, its cost, which may be considered as the cost of the exten- sion itself, will be early repaid to the country. H. Rep. 046 45 706 Documentary History of the Capitol. The purity of the atmosphere of the hall, secured by the perfect ventilation, has already exerted a beneficial influence upon the health of those occupying it. The last session — a long and laborious one — is remarkable for the fact that no mem- ber of the House present in Washington died during the session; and yet the House, I am informed, though it adjourned on the 14th of June, some two months earlier in the season than at any long session for years, was in actual session in the hall for some fifty hours more than in the longest session previously known; and passed more bills and transacted more business than ever before. The Senate chamber is nearly ready for use. I had expected to have it completed by the first Monday in December, but I have been disappointed in some things upon which it depends, and I find it will now require a few weeks more time. The causes of this delay it is not necessary here to recount. They were beyond my control. The heating and ventilating apparatus for both wings is in condition for use. That in the south wing has been in constant use for nearly a year, and has given entire satisfaction. That for the north wing is completed, and the building has been warmed by it, whenever necessary, for some months past. The rooms of the Secretary of the Senate, the senators’ retiring room, the ante- chamber, the corridors about the Senate, and a great part of the committee rooms of the north wing, are completed or nearly so. In the ante-chamber of the Senate — a room magnificently decorated, and for which designs had been prepared to be painted in fresco on the walls — the proviso attached to the last appropriation for the Capitol extension has arrested the work. Spaces which had been prepared for the fresco painter therefore remain unfinished. The mere decoration of the room is complete, and the room can be used. At some future day it is to be hoped that these spaces will be filled by fresco paintings worthy of the room they should adorn, and of the magnificent building which contains it. The proviso in relation to works of art, attached to the last appropriation, is as follows: Provided , That none of this appropriation shall be expended in embellishing any part of the Capitol extension with sculpture or paintings, unless the designs for the same shall have undergone the examination of a committee of distinguished artists, not to exceed three in number, to be selected by the President; and that the designs which said committee shall accept shall also receive the sub- sequent approbation of the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress ; but this provision shall not be so construed as to apply to the execution of designs heretofore made and accepted from Crawford and Rogers. As the Joint Library Committee does not sit during the recess, it has been impos- sible, since the passage of this proviso, to submit designs to it. The immediate effect of its passage, therefore, was to arrest all paintings in progress intended for the Capitol extension, and to prevent the commencement of new ones. In the rooms and corridors in which the decoration had been commenced, the merely decorative portion of the coloring was continued, but the spaces intended for pictures are left blank until, by some future action, Congress determines the mode of carrying out its views in regard to the embellishment of the building by works of art. Mr. Walker, who was employed in painting a picture of the storming of Chepul- tepec, for the Military Committee room of the south wing, has been stopped in his work by this proviso. His picture was perhaps half finished at the time. It is to be hoped that it may be found possible to authorize him to complete it. In regard to a permanent committee of artists, I venture to suggest here that there are some difficulties. It would be difficult to select three distinguished American artists whose reputation should be such as to entitle them to sit, without appeal, in judgment on the works of their brother artists, and whose pencils or chisels could at the same time be spared from the decoration of the building. There are few artists yet in this country qualified, by practice and by reputation, for such historical works as ought to adorn the panels in the legislative halls, and the The Extensions. 707 spaces reserved for pictures in the grand staircases and in the ante-chamber of the Senate and other public rooms. It is to be feared, too, that without some special provision for procuring designs, artists will not be forward in supplying them. The preparation of a design for a historical picture is a work of study, of labor, and of time. An artist’s time is too valuable to him to be given without compensation on the chance of success embraced in the approval of designs by two separate committees, one of them consisting of artists whom he may think superior or inferior to himself. The most liberal and, it seems to me, most judicious mode of granting commissions for works of art, would be to constitute some body with the power to give to such artists as may have established a sufficient reputation, commissions at a fixed price for pictures to till certain panels; or to grant to one artist a commission to decorate one of the great staircases, leaving the subject and the mode of treatment to the artist, subject only to the revision of the committee granting the commission. An artist who thus received a commission would have the certainty of compensation for all the labor and time he spent upon Ids work. It is a matter of course that an artist, honored by a liberal commission from the country for a picture to be placed in the Capitol, to be seen and criticised by all, would do his best. But little historical painting has thus far been attempted in the Capitol extension. What little has been done has been done with the object of calling attention to the subject, and indicating the mode in which the building admits of decoration by works of art. As public attention has been called to it, my object has been accomplished, and I shall be ready to carry out, so far as depends upon my sphere of duty, anj r plan which the friends of art succeed in passing through Congress. The sculpture from Mr. Crawford’s designs for one of the eastern pediments has been nearly finished. No design has yet been adopted for the other. It is to be hoped that Congress will make some provision for it at the approaching session. The contractors for marble have delivered a very large quantity of this material during the past year, but their quarry has not proved capable of supplying the shafts of the columns in single blocks, as required by the supplemental contract of 30th March, 1874, under the joint resolution of 20th February, of that year. After a long correspondence the contractors offered to deliver the column shafts in single blocks from the quarries of Carrara, Italy; one of them proposing to deliver them at the Capitol, according to the terms of the contract, substituting, however, the Carrara marble for that of the Lee quarry, which it was impossible to procure in large enough blocks; the other member of the firm proposing to deliver them upon the dock in Washington; the price to be the same as that provided by the contract, viz: $1,400 for each shaft in a single piece. This proposition you did not think it proper to accept, and the advertisement below was issued by your direction : PROPOSALS FOR SHAFTS. U. S. Capitol Extension and Washington Aqueduct Office, Washington, September 30, 185S. Sealed proposals will be received at this office until the fourth day of December next, at noon, for furnishing, on the grounds of the extension of the Capitol, one hundred shafts for the columns of the exterior porticos of that building. The dimensions are as follows: One hundred shafts, including the upper torus of the base; each shaft to be twenty- five feet two and one-eighth inches in height from the bottom of said torus to the top of the upper astragal. The diameter of the torus or bottom piece of shaft to be three feet seven and five- eighths inches; the diameter of the shaft above the base to be three feet, and at the neck below the capital two feet six and one-eighth inches; and the diameter of the 708 Documentary History of the Capitol . upper astragal to be two feet eleven and seven-eighths inches. These are the net dimensions of the work when finished. All the blocks to be scabbled round to dimensions, and to be free from all defects which would make blemishes in the finished columns." The above shafts to be of white American marble, similar in color, grain, and com- position to that used in the exterior of the Capitol extension, which comes from near Lee, Massachusetts. Every proposal should be accompanied with a block at least one cubic foot in size, as a specimen of the marble offered. This specimen will be submitted to proper chemical and mechanical tests before being accepted for the work. The proposals should state the time within which the marble will be delivered, and should be accompanied by a written guarantee, signed by one or more responsi- ble persons, to the effect that he or they undertake that the bidder or bidders will, if his or their bids be accepted, enter into an obligation within ten days, with good and sufficient securities, for the completion of the work undertaken; said guarantee to be accompanied by the certificate of the United States district judge, United States district attorney, navy agent, or some officer of the general government, or indi- vidual known to the engineer or Department of War, that the guarantors are able to make good their guarantee. The United States reserves the right to reject any or all bids not deemed advan- tageous, and to make other arrangements for procuring the marble. Proposals will be received for furnishing the shafts either in single blocks or in blocks of not less than four feet in length, and the number of shafts offered in single blocks or in pieces, respectively, should be stated. Proposals will be opened in this office at noon of the 4th of December next, in the presence of bidders who may choose to be present. By order of the Secretary of War. M. C. Meigs, Captain of Engineers, in charge of U. S. Capitol Extension. FORM OF A GUARANTEE. Captain M. C. Meigs, United States Engineers: We the undersigned, residents of , in the State of , hereby, jointly and severally, covenant with the United States, and guaranty, in case the foregoing bid of be accepted, that he or they will, within ten days after the acceptance of the said bid, execute the contract for the same, with good and suf- ficient sureties, to perform the work or furnish the articles proposed, in conformity to the terms of the advertisement under which it was made. And in case the said shall fail to enter into contract as aforesaid, we guaranty to make good the difference between the offer by the said and the next lowest bidder. A. B. C. D. I hereby certify that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, the above named guarantors are good and sufficient. E. F. The whole quantity of marble delivered by the contractors in the twelve months ending 30th September, is 74,789 cubic feet, costing $140,154 94. The. principal marble work of the year has consisted of the piers of the arcades of the ten porticos, in which much progress has been made; the completion of the cell walls of the connecting corridors; fitting up of the senators’ retiring room; the four great staircases; and the completion of the marble skirtings generally. The senators’ retiring room is lined throughout with polished marble. The ceil- ing, deeply moulded in polished Italian marble, is supported by Corinthian columns and pilasters of the same material. The niches and walls are lined with polished Tennessee marble. The Extensions. 709 The four great- staircases are nearly finished. The stairs are of marble, and the landings and ceilings of marble are supported upon marble columns of the Corinthian style, highly polished. The effect, even in the present unfinished condition of these staircases, is very rich and magnificent. The walls have been prepared with large plain spaces for pictures, and it is to be hoped that the painting of these pictures may not be long delayed. The light has been arranged with a view to the introduction of three large histor- ical pictures upon each of these four staircases, one in each to be about thirty feet by twenty feet in size. A niche for the reception of a colossal statue is also provided upon the principal landing of each staircase. * * * CASH ACCOUNT. Available September 30, 1857 $724, 187. 04 Appropriation of June 12, 1858 750, 000. 00 1,474, 187.04 Expended during the year ending September 30, 1858 1, 130, 910. 26 Available September 30, 1858 343, 276. 78 All of which will probably be expended by the 1st of January next. Amount to be appropriated for the service of the year ending June 30, 1860 500, 000. 00 All of which is respectfully submitted by your obedient servant, M. C. Meigs, Captain of Engineers , in charge United States Capitol Extension. Hon. John B. Floyd, Secretary of War. [House proceedings of Dec. 23, 1858: Congressional Globe, 35 — 2, p. 195.] REMOVAL OF MEMBERS’ DESKS. Mr. Miles. I ask leave to offer the following resolution: Resolved , That it be referred to a special committee of this House to consider and report on the expediency of removing the present desks from the Hall, and making such arrangements of the seats of members as will bring them together in a smaller space, for the purpose of greater facility of hear- ing and more orderly debate. I would simply remark to the House, that the resolution merely instructs the com- mittee to inquire and report. It provides for no definite action on the part of the House. Mr. Washburn, of Maine. I hope that resolution will pass. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. I move to lay the resolution on the table. Mr. Miles demanded the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were not ordered. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois, demanded tellers upon the motion. Tellers were not ordered. The motion was not agreed to. The question recurring upon agreeing to the resolution, Mr. Washburne, of Illinois, called for tellers. Tellers were ordered; and Messrs. Seward, and Clark of Connecticut, were appointed. The House divided; and the tellers reported — ayes 73, noes 55. So the resolution was adopted. Mr. Miles moved to reconsider the vote by which the resolution was adopted; and also moved that the motion to reconsider be laid on the table. The latter motion was agreed to. Mr. Miles. I would suggest that the committee shall consist of five members. There being no objection, it was ordered that the committee consist of five members. 710 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House proceedings of Jan. 7, 1859: Congressional Globe, 35 — 2, p. 266.] SPECIAL COMMITTEE. The Speaker announced that he had appointed Messrs. Miles, Letchee, Wash- burn of Maine, Pendleton, and Morris of Pennsylvania, a special committee on Mr. Miles’s resolution to consider and report on the expediency of removing the present- desks from the Hall, and making such arrangements of the seats of members as will bring them together in a smaller space, for the purpose of further facility of hearing and more orderly debate. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 2, 1859: Congressional Globe, 35 — 2, p. 1574.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1860 — Mr. Davis. I wish to present an amendment from the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds: For mating the necessary alterations to the rooms assigned to the Court of Claims, including the removal of the partition between the rooms formerly occupied by the Senate Committees on Military Affairs and on Indian Affairs, $5,000. I will merely state to the Senate that, when the Senate took possession of this wing of the Capitol, the Court of Claims was necessarily compelled to give up the rooms which they occupied; and, in making some provision for them, they were put in the rooms formerly occupied by the Committees on Naval Affairs, Military Affairs, and Indian Affairs, of the Senate. Neither of the rooms is large enough, however, for the business of the court. To make it so, it would be necessary to knock away a part of the wall which divided the room of the Committee on Indian Affairs from that of the Committee on Military Affairs, which can be done without any injury to the building, with some minor arrangements in relation to heating and ventilation, and will cost, it is estimated, the sum of $5,000. That appropriation is asked for the accommodation of the Court of Claims. The amendment was agreed to. Mr. Davis. The same committee have instructed me to offer an amendment providing for the heating of the center building with the same system as that applied to the wings: For extending to the center building the system of heating adopted for the wings, $74,000. I will state to the Senate that the same furnaces which are used for heating the wings will suffice for heating the center building. It will require an additional boiler at each extremity, and the introduction of pipe and other apparatus necessary for conducting the heat from the steam boilers. With this, all the corridors and passages will be brought to the equal temperature which now exists in the wings. Persons passing from one wing to the other will not be exposed to the chilling draught which they now encounter; and it is found, upon calculation of the amount of fuel consumed and the persons employed to keep up the heating of the center building, that this will be more economical, and will also relieve the building entirely from that danger of fire ■which has already destroyed a portion of the Library, and may involve a large portion of the documents which are kept in the center building. I ask the sense of the Senate upon the amendment. Mr. Pugh. I think the present system of heating the wings evidently defective. If it is proposed to extend it, I shall certainly vote against it. I think the experience of the Senate at this session is against this proposition. At one time this room is so hot as to be barely inhabitable, and at another time too cold ; and if it is proposed to extend that failure to the center building, I would much rather have the old system. I think we were better off in the old Chamber than here. My opinion is, that the whole thing is a failure; and I do not want to spend more money upon it. Mr. Davis. I will merely say to my friend from Ohio, whom I have been unfor- The Extensions. 711 tunate in attempting to convince, that I will not argue with him this question of heating generally; but I will merely say to him, that that of which he complains does not belong to the system of heating. It results from the open spaces by which the heat was brought into the Chamber, and I think I can promise him, with some assurance, that when the Senate meets at the next session, he will find that these gratings have been removed; that instead of horizontal drafts of air, there will be ver- tical columns, and all that of which he complains will no longer exist. It is not in the system of heating, but in the manner in which the heated air has been introduced into the Chamber. The amendment was agreed to. [Senate proceedings of March 2, 1859: Congressional Globe, 35 — 2, p. 1587.] CIVIL APPROPRIATION BILL. The consideration of the bill (H. R. No. 713) making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government, for the year ending the 30th of June, 1860, was resumed as in Committee of the Whole. Mr. Bright. I have an amendment to offer from the Committee on Public Build- ings and Grounds: And he it further enacted, That for procuring the necessary furniture for the Senate Chamber, the audience rooms, the committee-rooms, the rooms occupied by the office of the Secretary of the Senate, and other rooms of the north wing of the Capitol in the occupancy of the Senate and its appendages, the superintendent of the Capitol extension be directed to make a survey and ascertain what articles of furniture will be needed, with the materials, designs, and dimensions of the same; and that he be, and he is hereby, authorized to publish the proper specifications and descriptions of the articles that may be required, and invite sealed proposals to be made to him within thirty days from the date of the first publication of the same for the manufacture and construction of the said articles of furniture, to be opened at the appointed time, in the presence of the bidders or other persons; and that a con- tract or contracts for such furniture shall be made with the lowest and best bidder, reference being had to the quality of the material, the superiority of workmanship, and the time in which the same shall be completed; and that proper security shall be taken for the faithful and prompt execution of the work; and that, for the purpose of paying for the said furniture as it may be completed and delivered to the satisfaction of the said superintendent, such sum of money as may be required therefor be, and the same hereby is, appropriated, to be paid out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated. Mr. Mason. I hope that appropriation will not be made. I do not see any reason why we should not be content, in this new building, with the old furniture. We have abundance here in the Senate Chamber — the chairs and desks which were used in the old building. As far as I know, in the committee-rooms, we have abundance there. In the room of the committee of which I am a member, we have the old furniture of the old committee-room. It is abundant for our purposes; and, in the present state of the Treasury, and our anxiety not to increase the expendi- tures, I think it would be in very bad taste, not to give it a harsher name, that we should be expending money to furnish this new Capitol. We have abundance of furniture, which has been brought from the old Capitol — very good furniture, as far as I know — and I trust that the appropriation will not be made. Mr. Bright. I hope now, sir, that gentlemen who are at the head of committees will have an opportunity of explaining how far they do need furniture in their committee-rooms. It is a great relief to me to have an opportunity of offer- ing this amendment. It was reported from the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds some four weeks since in the shape of a joint resolution, but I have been unable to get it considered; and during that time, I think I may venture to say that a majority of the gentlemen who are at the head of committees have spoken to me repeatedly, asking why the subject was not called up. I understand that there are many committee-rooms which are not furnished, or in which the furniture, at least, is not suitable to the rooms. I certainly have no anxiety in reference to the mat- ter; for the committee of which I have the honor to be chairman as yet have no 712 Documentary History of the Capitol. room in the new wing of the Capitol. The special committee who had that matter in charge assigned a small room to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds; but the chairman of the Committee on Indian Affairs felt that it was a necessary append- age to the room assigned to him, and we yielded it to him. As chairman of the committee, I have done nothing more than my duty in offering the amendment, and Senators have now an opportunity of saying whether they need furniture in their committee-rooms or not. If they need it, under this amendment the superintendent in charge of this building will advertise and receive sealed proposals for furnishing such furniture as the gentlemen who compose the committees here say they need. It is wholly immaterial to me whether the Senate adopt the amendment or not. Mr. Mason. I ought to have added one word to what I said before. I do require some additional furniture in the room of the committee of which I am a member, and I propose to have it made. I want some very plain pine shelves to put books on, and I want nothing more. The furniture in that committee room was brought from the committee room in the old Capitol; it is in good order; there is no part of it broken, nothing dilapidated, and I want no other furniture. I think it will be in very bad taste to put this additional burden on the Treasury, to accommodate the furniture in the committee-rooms to the gew-gaw gorgeous taste of this new building. Mr. Brown. I must confess myself somewhat amazed at the position of the Sena- tor from Virginia. We have built a magnificent wing to the Capitol for the accom- modation of the Senate. I have always understood the Senator from Virginia to be in favor of this Capitol extension, and upon its present scale of magnificence; but now at the winding up, when the house is built, he is for stopping and refusing to furnish it. Mr. Mason. I was in favor of the Capitol extension, because I believed we w'anted more space, and for no other reason in the world, and I am in favor of getting furni- ture if any gentleman will say that the furniture, from his former committee-room is not enough, not in quality, but in quantity, for his present use. Mr. Brown. I hold that the furniture of a committee-room ought to bear some relation to the room itself. I heard the Senator say, and I heard it with some sur- prise, that he wanted some plain pine shelves in his committee-room. That suggests to me the idea of a plain log cabin. If w r e held our councils in buildings of that sort, I should be content with that kind of furniture; but it seems to me to be altogether out of place that we should erect a building like this, at a cost of millions, and then, all of a sudden, talk about economy and refuse to furnish the committee rooms and legislative chambers in a style commensurate with the dignity, magnificence, and grandeur of the building. Possibly you may never have had use for these committee- rooms, but you thought you had. You may have had no use for this Chamber. I hardly think you had; but still Congress decided otherwise. You have put up the building, and this is not the point at which to stop; for you must go on and furnish your building in the style. in w'hich you have erected it. I never had any respect for a private gentleman who built a fine house and then did not carpet his floor, or furnish it in the style in which he had built it. It always occurred to me that he did not know' exactly w'hat he was driving at; that he wanted to do the thing on a big scale, and that his magnificence give out before he got through. You have built a fine Capitol, and I think you will be very much in fault if you do not furnish it in the style in which you have built it. I am very sorry to dissent from the Senator from Virginia, because Virginians know very much better than Mississippians what fine furniture is. The old ‘ ‘ mother of States and statesmen ’ ’ ought to know what is right, and ought to do what is right. Of all Senators on this floor, I should have expected this objection to come last from the Senator from Virginia. We are accustomed to associate the name of Virginia with those old family mansions furnished in the style which belongs to her. Would the Senator from Virginia build himself a magnificent residence, and refuse to carpet the floors, refuse to put up mirrors, make himself magnificent parlors and chambers, and then say, “I will put up pine shelves all The Extensions. 713 around here; I will have no mahogany tables; I will have no cushioned chairs; I will have plain pine tables; and I will have three legged stools?” I am sure the Senator from Virginia would not propose to act in that way. It is not according to Virginia magnificence; it is not according to Virginia magnanimity and grandeur. I hope the amendment will be adopted. Mr. Mason. I only want to say to the Senator from Mississippi, that I had no part in the world in building this extension of the Capitol ; I had no part in the arrange- ments; I approve of nothing in it, of any kind and description, exccept the apparent durability. If it shall last, it is all 1 ask. All this gorgeous painting, and these ceilings, as far as my taste is concerned, are entirely discordant. I had no part or lot in them. Now, it is asked that we shall appropriate money to add furniture, or to purchase furniture, and my objection is, that we do not want it. I certainly do not want it. In the room of the committee of which I am a member, we have the old furniture brought from the old committee-room; it is in good order; no part of it is broken; no part of it is dilapidated; and I have no desire, in the present condi- tion of the Treasury, to make an appropriation to add to it. Now, in relation to what the Senator has alluded to, I said this, and I adhere to it: I want nothing there but some plain pine shelves, that shall be painted in order to preserve them, to put books on. That is my idea of the proprieties of life. Shabby splendor and mock gentility 1 condemn utterly, at home or abroad. Mr. Malloky. The committee over which I have the honor to preside is very much in want of a few articles of furniture in the committee-room, but I will not enumerate them here, lest I might offend the sensibilities of my friend from Virginia. In removing out of the old committee-room, which lias since been turned over to the Court of Claims, we did not remove articles which were necessary to the committee. It is necessary that we should have some to replace other articles. It will require a small amount. Mr. Hunter. Will my friend allow me to suggest that it will not do for each head of a committee to give an inventory of the furniture in his room. Mr. Mallory. I am not going to do it. I have the floor and if my friend from Virginia will sit down and listen to me I shall get through very soon. The furniture in these rooms is a mere bagatelle. I presume the discretion of the chairmen of the committees will be trusted in furnishing their rooms appropriately. My friend from Virginia, [Mr. Mason,] may stick to his pine shelves and may have them painted if he chooses, and if his room is supplied he will of course not call for any furniture ; but I say my committee-room wants a little — a few chairs, a desk, a bookcase, &c. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I wish to call the attention of the Senator to the person pointed out in this amendment to provide the furniture for the committee- rooms. It provides that ‘ ‘ the superintendent of the Capitol extension be directed to make a survey, and ascertain what articles of furniture will be needed, with the materials, designs, and dimensions of the same.” It seems that the superintendent of the Capitol extension is to examine these rooms, make out a general design, and then procure furniture without regard to the committees, or any consultation with them or their chairmen, or anybody else. If the design is to furnish the committee- rooms in a manner corresponding with the useless and wasteful extravagance of public money that has been incurred in the building of these two wings of the Capitol, I think it is time it ought to be looked into. It seems to me that we had better commit this matter to the care of the Secretary of the Senate or the Sergeant-at-Arms, instead of the superintendent of the Capitol extension. Those officers, under the direction of the committees, can procure what furniture the committees need in their rooms. If, as the Senator from Virginia sug- gests, some of the committees want pine tables and pine shelves, let them have them. If other committees want furniture of a little better grade, let them have it. But, according to the original amendment, the superintendent is to make out a general plan for the furniture; and it is to carry out the general intention and design of this 714 Documentary History of the Capitol. building, without consulting the convenience and interest of the committees, or their notions of economy or propriety. It seems to me, it is carrying the thing a little too far. If I know myself, I have no unkind feelings towards the superintendent of this building; but it seems to me that Mr. Meigs has about as many jobs on hand as he can well attend to. He has the aqueduct, on which you are expending millions; he has the Capitol on which you are expending millions; then the public grounds around the Capitol are to be placed in his hands, on which you have expended mil- lions; and now not even furniture can be procured for the committee-rooms unless Mr. Meigs makes out a general plan, without consulting the committees. Mr. Bright. I am quite sure the gentleman to whom the Senator refers does not desire to undertake the duty imposed on him by this amendment. I think it proper to state that I shall make no objection, for one, to substituting any other person whose name will satisfy the Senate. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I did not say that the superintendent desired an accumulation of more labor of a different character, and I do not think I intimated that he was seeking this appointment; but the amendment points him out, and makes it his duty to do this. It seems to me that an officer of this body, under the direc- tion of the committees, could select the description of furniture they want; and then you would have your officer and the committees responsible. I repeat again, if mem- bers of the committees want cheap and economical furniture to satisfy their notions of republican simplicity — which is becoming rather an antiquated idea in this coun- try — let them have it; if others want furniture a little more extravagant, let them have it. I move to strike out “the superintendent of the Capitol extension,” and insert either the Secretary of the Senate, or the Sergeant-at-Arms, whichever will best suit the temper of the Senate. The Presiding Officer. (Mr. Foot in the chair. ) The Senator will state his amend- ment definitely, not in the alternative. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I move to strike out “superintendent of the Capitol extension,” and insert “Secretary of the Senate.” The Secretary of the Senate, under the supervision of the Committee to Audit and Control the Contingent Expenses of the Senate, can do things properly, and the expenditure can be kept within rea- sonable and proper bounds. Mr. Johnson, of Arkansas. There is, unquestionably, a unity in the original amendment; and it has been presented, I presume, upon very full consideration. I have a very long speech to make upon it; I know it must certainly admit of a very extensive and extraordinary amount of debate. [Laughter.] But the mind of every Senator, in all human probability, has already been made up. Therefore, I content myself by simply asking that we take a vote in the first place on the amend- ment to the amendment, and then on the amendment itself, which, I hope, will prevail. Mr. Mason. I have no choice as to who is to select the furniture; but I observe that, in the amendment, the appropriation is unlimited. It may involve an expenditure of $100,000, or $500,000. I want to limit it. I move to amend it by saying that the amount shall not exceed $10,000, of which I expect to ask for about ten dollars, to put those shelves of which I spoke in my committee-room. The Presiding Officer. There is pending an amendment to the amendment. After that shall be disposed of, the amendment of the Senator from Virginia will be in order. Mr. Collamer. I have nothing to say about the committee-rooms; but there is certainly one room which I think gentlemen will agree with me in saying should be furnished, not that I think that any more is needed in this chamber, or, perhaps, in the committee-rooms, but there is a room designed as a ladies’ room, over the recep- tion room, which, when finished, should be well furnished. There are, also, the Vice President’s room, and the President’s room, which should be well furnished. The Extensions. 715 Mr. Davis. I think the amendment offered by the Senator from Indiana, the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings, is eminently proper. I thought so when it was presented; but I have received fresh confirmation from the criticisms of the Senator from Tennessee and the Senator from Virginia; and therefore I most seriously object to the proposition of the Senator from Tennessee, which is to put the furnishing of these rooms in the hands of somebody, who is to receive guidance from the chairmen of committees; for, with such an exhibition of taste as they have made, I really think they are not fit to decide upon the furniture of rooms. One announces that he had nothing to do with the building of the wings, and he calls the decorations “gew-gaw.” It may be so to him; it may be that his taste has not been sufficiently cultivated to determine the difference between a high work of art and what he terms “shabby gentility.” That is his misfortune; and it would be my fault if I selected him to furnish a committee-room for me, with such an evidence of taste as he has given. I should not do it. So of the Senator from Tennessee, who finds nothing but a wasteful extravagance in the construction of the building, and a departure from republican simplicity, because it is beautiful. Sir, the sovereign people deserve as good a house as any man who was ever born a monarch. It was proper to select some one familiar with the building to determine upon the plan of the furniture; not that it is to be painted like the wall; I presume that is not designed; but it is to have a certain elevation, a certain depth, a certain appropriate- ness to every room in which it is to be placed. A design is to be made; and some one acquainted with the makers of furniture, a judge of material, and acquainted with the men who work it, who would know how to get bids, how to obtain furni- ture of the best kind at the lowest price, ought to be selected. Though some Sena- tors may have provided from their committee-rooms elsewhere, all the furniture they require in them here, there are others who did not. Mr. Mason. If the Senator alludes to me, I will say that I never ordered an article of furniture since I have been a member of the Senate for my committee-room but one, and I have been in the Senate twelve years. Mr. Davis. When was that? Mr. Mason. That was a case to contain the papers of the committee, and I limited the price to fifteen dollars. In twelve years that is all the furniture I have ever ordered. Mr. Davis. Well, I say this: the Senator’s room is a great deal better furnished than the one of the Committee on Military Affairs, if he had furniture which he could remove into it quite appropriate to the one into which he was going. The large shelves which stood in the old room of the Committee on Military Affairs could not be removed to take a place in the new room. Mr. Mason. Nor mine. Mr. Davis. More furniture is wanted in that room, and more furniture is wanted in many rooms of the building, as I infer from the statements of gentlemen who serve on the committees, and $10,000 is not enough to answer the purpose. The $10,000 will but little more than adequately furnish the retiring room, which now stands naked, without a chair appropriate to it, or a lounge, or anything else which is in accordance with it. If the Senator had not given his own description, I should have supposed he might mean by shabby gentility, the few cane-bottomed chairs standing in that room, which is lined with beautiful and highly polished marble. Mr. Mason. The Senator does me injustice. I did not say “shabby gentility.” I said “shabby splendor and mock gentility.” Mr. Davis. “Shabby splendor and mock gentility!” All, except the splendor, I find in the cane-bottomed chairs which now grace the retiring room, is mock gen- tility to the Senator’s content! I would give furniture appropriate to the room and appropriate to the Senate of the United States. I would have some one who was fit to select it, and I would not have a committee directing him. I would have some- thing which was in accordance with the plan of the building. The committees are Documentary History of the Capitol. 716 changing constantly. Who knows whether he will be on any particular committee next year? Why should a Senator who happens to be chairman of a committee dur- ing this session prescribe furniture for the room of that committee hereafter? He may cease to occupy that position at the close of the session. It is for the Senate to decide what place he will occupy at the next session. The Secretary of the Senate, the Sergeant-at-Arms, or anybody else who may be selected, may be a proper person enough to purchase the furniture, but I object to his being selected on the ground that the committees are to direct him; and I hope, whoever he may be, he will be a man who, when the committees come to direct him, will tell the committees what he thinks is right, and, after they have heard him, will do what he believes to be right, whether it pleases them or not. I want furniture made appropriate to the rooms, and in such quantity as the convenience of the committees may require, and of such character as the uses prescribed render proper. I do not care whether the Senator wants pine shelves, pitched or painted. I say neither one nor the other would be appropriate to the rooms in which the committees meet in the new wing of this building. Neither do I see that there would be any great deal of economy in purchasing inferior materials, which would shrink and swell back and fall to pieces, to be renewed or repaired from time to time, with injury to the books put in them. I have no confidence in that poor economy which injures valuable books to avoid buying a case that would preserve them, which would stick them upon shelves to gather dust and feed the worms, instead of securing them in cases that would keep them for posterity, and save them from depredation. Mr. Mason. There is a well-approved maxim that the honorable Senator from Mis- sissippi learned in his boyhood : 1 ‘ there is no disputing about tastes. ’ ’ The honorable Senator may have his taste, and I mine. The honorable Senator may have an idea of what becomes the-dignity and magnificence of this great country; I have mine. I say that that shabby splendor which may be indulged under an unlimited appropriation I utterly contemn. There is no limit to this appropriation. I do not know whether the honorable Senator will vote for it in this unlimited form or not; but I say that, according to my apprehension, whoever does vote for it in its unlimited form, does not regard the constitutional inhibition which requires that we shall know 7 w x hat is appropriated. Now 7 , sir, a word as to this Capitol extension. I do not quarrel w r ith it, so far as the arrangements are concerned. I believe the Senate Chamber has been very well devised, except these extended galleries, which I should be against; but I do not quarrel about that. It is well ventilated, well arranged for acoustics, and accommo- dates us better than the old Chamber. I do not quarrel with the unnecessary expenditure for what, I understand, the honorable Senator calls works of art. We have no business with them. Mr. Davis. What are what I call w T orks of art? Mr. Mason. Well, I understand by works of art, these frescoed paintings; not in this Chamber, but elsewhere. Mr. Davis. There is not a fresco in this Chamber. Mr. Mason. Not in this Chamber, but elsewhere. Then there is the elaborate painting that is exhausted on the corridors and passages below, and on other por- tions of the building. If the gentleman has a taste that approves these w r orks of art, let him indulge it at his own expense; but not at the expense of the country. I have heard of gentlemen in their private establishments expending hundreds of thousands of dollars upon what are called works of art. I do not quarrel with it. There is no disputing about taste. Let them do it, if they think proper; but it is not a proper expenditure from the public Treasury. I recognize no jiroper expenditure from the public Treasury but that which will facilitate the dispatch of the public business; and, in making these buildings, I would go to any T extent that •was necessary to make them ample enough and durable enough, but no further. The Extensions. 717 Now, what is proposed by this amendment? That we shall make an unlimited appro- priation to furnish the committee-rooms, or whatever other rooms there may be in this Capitol. I say it is against the spirit of the Constitution which requires an appropriation of money so that we know what goes; but there is no limit to this appropriation. The honorable Senator hastwittedme alittleabout myideas of pine shelves. I choose to put it in that form. The honorable Senator from Mississippi [Mr. Brown] asked, would I build a splendid house and furnish it in a poor and mean manner? That is for me to decide out of my own means; I have no right to decide it out of the public funds. We have no right to expend money but for public purposes. We are called upon to furnish ample accommodations for the discharge of the public business, and to do it in an economical manner. I am one of those who understand perfectly that there are occasions when the road to economy is by the path of expenditure, and I would expend freely and liberally to get ample accommodations, and to have them perma- nent, durable, and, if we could, imperishable; but beyond that, not one step — nothing for these works of art. That we have no right to do. There is no warrant for it in the charter under which we come here. Put paint upon your walls, or put paint wherever it is necessary for preservation, and preservation only. That is my idea of proper public expenditure. In my own house I might indulge my own tastes, and the honorable Senator might indulge his in his own; and there is no dis- puting about taste. Possibly I might differ with him in regard to our own establishments. I want to limit this appropriation. I say again, so .far as I am conversant with the committee-rooms, we do not want any additional furniture, unless it may be some shelves, to accommodate the books, or something of that kind. I am utterly opposed to the scheme of repudiating the old furniture, to put in new. I am against that whole system which obtains in some parts of the country, where there is accumu- lated a redundant and exulting wealth, that would destroy an old fabric — destroy old furniture — that they may get new fashions. It is not in my taste; but, again, there is no disputing about tastes. At the proper time 1 shall ask to limit this expenditure. I want to make the expenditure equal to the actual necessity; but I am not willing to go one step beyond it. If there be an idea that it becomes the dignity and magnificence of the country to repudiate the old furniture which we and our predecessors have enjoyed for fifty years, in order that we may get new furniture, adapted to the new condition of things, it is not to my taste; but again, there is no disputing about tastes. I want to limit the expenditure, and if it be $10,000 or $20,000, I am willing to vote it to fur- nish what is actually necessary, and to repudiate nothing which we have got. That is what my idea is. Mr. Davis. I suppose we should have had no disputation as to tastes, if the honor- able Senator had not assumed to have a taste which he oracularly gave out for others. If he had allowed his own opinion to be enjoyed without insisting that others should adopt it, we should have had no dispute about tastes. Nor is it my taste which lie arraigns. I claim no cultivation; I claim not to decide upon works of art. Not being very disputatious, nor quite oracular, not believing myself to be very skilled, I took the judgment of men with whom it had been the study of a life; and I believed, as I still believe, that on a question of taste there may be an amount of natural endowment and of acquirement which will require a modest man to surren- der something of his own impressions. Mr. Mason. But do not make the public pay for it. That is all I am against, Mr. Davis. I am coming to that. It is possible to be positive and not to be wise. It is possible to assume the air of economy, and yet to go on in a course of profligacy. If the Vatican had been whitewashed from year to year since it has been completed, it would have cost more than those paintings which have remained for the admiration of posterity; and this Capitol, I trust, is to stand longer than the Vatican has stood; and it is that scagliola painting along in the corridors that the Senator criticises, which, in 718 Documentary History of the Capitol. the course of years, is to prove an economy. Instead of coming with the poor brush which he proposes annually to paint or to whitewash, it was expected that the work of art, as he terms it, would stand for a series of years, not only to be admired, but to remain without the necessity of an annual expenditure. I say, therefore, it is possible to raise a dispute about taste, and to assume to be extravagantly careful of the public money, without, in fact, prescribing any law on which a just taste might rest, and without, in truth, pursuing a path that would lead to the saving of the public treasure; but the reverse in both cases; wandering at random, to tear down those things which men, after a life of study and experience, have put up; pronouncing against decoration which, unless the Senator has paid more attention to it than I have, he surely cannot comprehend; pronouncing immediately that there is to be a vast expenditure, without knowing the cost, without knowing its durability, without knowing what anything which he would have substituted for it would have cost in a term of years easily computed. It is this general arraignment of what other people do; it is this organ of destructiveness, which comes in to carp and criticise and tear down all that other men do, which lies at the foundation of half the difficulties and the evils we suffer. Nature creates but few animals for destruction, many for con- struction; and we who walk the humble path may claim, in our useful toil, to be spared from the ruthless scythe of such severe criticism. I am not disputing with the Senator on a matter of taste. I am questioning his right to judge of the taste of others, and, with one general denunciation, to sweep out years of study by men who had given a long life to acquire a knowledge that enabled them to solve the problem. That is what I object to. It is not a question between the Senator and myself. I did not design this ornamentation. I do not pretend now to judge of it. It pleases me; and I hope to sit here long enough to have my eye cultivated to a higher taste, and to enjoy it more and more; and I trust the Senator will learn to discriminate between a painting which is exceedingly beautiful, and that which he denounces as a daub. Mr. M asox. Will the Senator indulge me? I do not object to his education; but I do object to his education at the public expense. That is my objection. Mr. Davis. The Senator must be educated somehow; and it is at the Government cost that he has not been educated before. Now, it will be for the benefit of the country if, at its cost, it can educate him, and save him from such outrages hereafter. [Laughter.] He must he educated. It is essential that he should be taught. Heis untaught; and how is he to be taught, except by confining him in a room where his taste can rise to something highei'? [Laughter.] I have no wish to continue this debate. Mr. Bright. It is, perhaps, proper that I should state why the committee did not fix a limitation on the amount in the amendment I have offered. We had no data to go upon, and I am now better satisfied than I was before that we did right. Our object was to leave to the different committees the right to signify to the gentleman who would have the work in charge the character of furniture they desired, presuming that every committee would order such furniture as they thought appropriate to the room they occupied. If it had been known that every committee would select pine furniture of the description given by the Senator from Virginia, we might have fixed an estimate upon it. However, we thought it was the highest compliment we could pay the different committees of this body to let them signify to the gentleman who would have the work in charge the kind of furniture they wanted introduced into their rooms. We supposed they would exercise a judicious economy in doing so, and I have no doubt every committee will. But it is not only the committee-rooms which are to be furnished. There is furni- ture necessary for this Chamber. I do not say that we need new desks or new chairs for ourselves, but we need new sofas. There are several rooms that need furnishing entirely. The furniture in the office of the Secretary of the Senate and his clerks is entirely insufficient. They have now no desks in which to put papers belonging to The Extensions. 719 the business of the Senate. It is useless to fix a limitation of §10,000, as proposed by the Senator from Virginia. My impression is that less than §50,000 would he useless; and, if there is a limitation to be fixed, I hope it will be a sum much higher than that named by the Senator from Virginia. If the vote is to be taken on the limita- tion, as proposed, I shall name a higher sum. The Presiding Officer. The present question is on the amendment of the Senator from Tennessee, to the amendment of the Senator from Indiana, to strike out “super- intendent of the Capitol extension,” and insert “ Secretary of the Senate.” Mr. Iverson. It is getting pretty late, and I am getting very sleepy; and 1 rise to give notice — this is a very good time to do it — that I shall insist, for the remainder of the sitting, on the execution of the 4th rule of the Senate — that no Senator shall speak more than twice on any subject. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I do not believe I am excluded under that rule. Mr. Iverson. No. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I merely rise to ask the Senator who reported this amendment, what sum is estimated for the furnishing of these committee-rooms? Mr. Bright. I stated that we had no correct data on which we could rely. That matter was spoken of in committee, and less than fifty thousand dollars, it was believed, would be insufficient. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. Does the Senator think it will take less than one hundred thousand dollars, if this amendment be carried out? Mr. Bright. I have really no means of knowing. I have no idea that more furni- ture will be ordered than is necessary. The amendment is well guarded. The furniture is to be furnished by the lowest bidder, which, I think, will obviate any fear the Senator might have. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. If I understand this amendment, I understand it very differently from the gentleman’s speech. His speech comes up to my idea of requiring the selection of this furniture to be placed in the charge of somebody who will consult the taste of the committees. It seems to me that ought to be done. Let who will supply the rooms with furniture, the committees ought to be consulted as to the character and quality of it. His explanation, it seems to me, contemplates one thing, while the amendment contemplates another. The amendment seems to make it the duty of the superintendent to examine the rooms, make out a general design, and have furniture made according to the plan that he may lay down, with- out consulting the committees at all. He may, or may not, consult the committees, at his discretion. He is to make out his plan, prescribe the quantity and kind and quality of the furniture; and it is to be paid for, let it cost what it may. There is one other suggestion that comes up in my mind, and there seems to me to be a contradiction so far as the Senator from Mississippi is concerned. In his first remarks I understood him as stating that the committees were not competent to select furniture suitable for their rooms, and that that was attributable to their being deficient in taste. Mr. Davis. I did not arraign their taste generally. I took yourself and the Senator from Virginia as examples of men whom I would not take to select furniture for me. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I was not the person to select it, and the gentleman could not have selected me. I have made no such proposition, and intimated no such desire. Mr. Davis. I was answering your remarks. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. The committee to which I belong have no room in which to sit, and of course need no furniture; but the gentleman assumes as an argu- ment, why my amendment should not be made, as I understand him, that the com- mittees are not competent to select furniture suitable to their rooms on account of their being deficient in taste. Mr. Davis. I did not say that, and I have just told you what I did say. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I think that is about the substance. I have no dispo- 720 Documentary History of the Capitol. sition to misrepresent. Then, in his last speech, the Senator rather concludes the committees might be competent, and this seems to me to be a contradiction. Mr. Davis. I did not say any such thing. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I wish we had down what the Senator from Mississippi did say. Mr. Davis. I suppose you might have heard what I said, sir. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I thought I did hear it. Mr. Doolittle. I call the Senators to order. This conversation between Senators is out of order. The Presiding Officer. The Senator from Tennessee will proceed. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I understood the Senator from Mississippi to assume, in the first place, that the committees were incompetent in consequence of their deficiency in taste to select furniture suitable to the committee-rooms. Mr. Davis. My language did not justify you in any such understanding. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. Well, what did the Senator say? 1 will stand cor- rected. Mr. Davis. I have told you once. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. What did the Senator say? I ask him again. Mr. Davis. I told you once that I said, from your remarks and those of the Sena- tor from Virginia, I was confirmed in the propriety of a proposition which had selected a particular person to choose this furniture, and not to refer it to the com- mittees to select what furniture they should choose; for, from the two specimens, I did not consider that furniture would be well selected in that way. That was about the amount of it. Mr. JonNSON, of Tennessee. The explanation is, in substance, what I have stated. The Senator from Mississippi predicated his argument upon the statements made by the Senator from Virginia and myself; and, taking us as specimens, his conclusion was, that the committees were not competent, from the fact of their being deficient in taste, to select furniture suitable for their rooms. We have concluded just where we commenced. Mr. Davis. That is, you have concluded. Mr. Johnson, of Arkansas. I wish to suggest to the Senator from Tennessee, for whom I entertain very kindly respect, that he permit the vote to be taken, and not continue this discussion on a question of taste. It is evidently putting every one here to sleep. We have a great deal more business to do. As he has yielded me the floor, I appeal to him to let us have a vote. We have now had all the learning that there is in this body, on this side of the Chamber, from the highest sources; but we have not yet heard from the other side, and I object to a contest on matters of taste altogether upon one side in politics. There might be something new if we could hear from the other side; but gentlemen are going to sleep; it is about a quarter to one o’clock; and I hope we may be permitted to have a vote. There are a number of amendments yet to be acted on, and for God’s sake I hope we shall be allowed to have a vote on this amendment. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. The Senator will do me the justice to say that I have not consumed time. Mr. Johnson, of Arkansas. Except in one respect — that the Senator started the difficulty, and it is certainly a serious one, because it has led to the loss of much time, and cost much money, and wasted the spirits and strength of gentlemen who have to sit this bill out. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. My object is to save money. The Presiding Officer. The Chair feels obliged to state' to gentlemen that this interlocutory conversation is not strictly in order. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I have no disposition to consume time. Mr. Wade. I will move an adjournment. We are doing nothing, and are not likely to do anything but talk. The Extensions. 721 Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. If the Senator wants to act, and will vote, I shall desist from saying anything. Several Senators. We want to vote. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment of the Senator from Ten- nessee to the amendment of the Senator from Indiana, to strikeout “superintendent of the Capitol extension,” and insert “Secretary of the Senate.” The amendment to the amendment was rejected. Mr. Mason. I move to amend the amendment of the Senator from Indiana by adding this proviso: Provided, That the amount shall not exceed $10,000. Mr. Bright. I move to amend that by saying “$50,000.” The Presiding Officer. The amendment of the Senator from Indiana is not in order. Mr. Bright. Then I ask the Senate to reject the amendment of the Senator from Virginia. Mr. Hale. Is not the rule that, in taking a vote like this, the question shall be first on the largest sum ? Mr. Mason. I understand that to apply only where there is a blank, and there are various propositions to fill the blank. The Presiding Officer. The Chair does not regard it as applicable to the amend- ment in the present form. Mr. Mason. My object is to appropriate money enough to furnish a deficiency in furniture of a plain character. I ask for the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered; and being taken, resulted — yeas 16, nays 25; as follows: * * * So the amendment to the amendment was rejected. Mr. Bright. I move to amend the amendment by adding: Provided, That the amount to be expended under this section shall not exceed $50,000. I would rather have it without limitation, if it is the pleasure of the Senate; but if the Senate are disposed to limit it, I propose to insert about one half the amount that I think will be proper. The amendment to the amendment was agreed to. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I do not intend to occupy more than two minutes of the Senate’s time; but I wish to call their attention to the provisions of this amend- ment. It declares: The superintendent of the Capitol extension be directed to make a survey and ascertain what artielesof furniture will be needed, with the materials, designs, and dimensions of the same; and that he be, and is hereby, authorized to publish the proper specifications and descriptions of the articles that may be required, and invite sealed proposals, to be made to him within thirty days from the date of the first publication of the same, for the manufacture and construction of the said articles of fur- niture, to be opened at the appointed time, in the presence of the bidders or other persons; and that a contract or contracts for such furniture shall be made with the lowest and best bidder, reference being had to the quality of the material, the superiority of workmanship, and the time in which the same shall be completed. I will not say that it was the design of the drawers of this proposition to open the door for a speculation and a fraud; but, as I conceive it, it is susceptible of a fraud and speculation being practiced underit. For instance: it provides that proposals shall be published and bids received for furnishing rooms with furniture, and the superintend- ent is to judge of the quality of the furniture and the time in which it is to be delivered. It is very easy for a person wishing to make a contract with a particular man, to select him, and it will be in the power of the superintendent to rule them down to such time that he can practically confine the contract to the person whom he may select and upon whom he wishes to confer a benefit. We are told by the Senator from Indiana that he thinks $50,000 will be about half the amount that will be necessary H. Rep. 646 46 722 Documentary History of the Capitol. to furnish the committee-rooms. Then, here is a door open for obtaining furniture to the amount of $100,000, leaving the officer to select his own man, and rule all others out. I do not wish to be understood as saying that this is the design of the drawers of the amendment; hut in the manner in which it is drawn, it is suscepti- ble of that practice being carried on under it, and it may result in that. Mr. Bright. Allow me to suggest to the Senator from Tennessee, that he propose an amendment which he thinks will remedy that difficulty. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I think it could be amended; but I have become so well satisfied that any amendment which restrains and restricts the expenditure of public money will not prevail in this body, that I have concluded to offer no amendment. Mr. Fitzpatrick. It is now one o’clock. We were here last night until two o’clock. There must be some end to human endurance. From the number of Senators I see prepared to take their departure, I am satisfied that, in a few minutes, we shall be without a quorum. I propose, therefore, that the Senate adjourn. Mr. Clingman. Let us take the vote on this proposition. Mr. Fitzpatrick. I do not see that we can do it very soon. We shall evidently have to sit all day to-morrow, and all night to-morrow night. I move, therefore, that the Senate do now adjourn. The motion was agreed to; and the Senate adjourned. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 3, 1859: Congressional Globe, 35 — 2, p. 1623.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1860 — Mr. Davis. I wish to offer an amendment as a proviso, to come in after line two hundred and seventy-four: But this provision shall not be so construed as to interfere with the completion of, and payment for, works already begun by Crawford and Rogers, or the completion of the painting of rooms in the north wing, already partly painted. In the bill which is before the Senate, there is a proviso to the appropriation for the Capitol extension: That none of the money hereby appropriated shall be expended in the decoration and embellish- ment of the Capitol extension, by sculpture or painting, unless the same shall have been approved by the art commission authorized by the act of 12th June, 1858, in the manner stated in said act. The amendment is to save the works which are in progress. It is in conformity with an amendment which passed, after a committee of conference, during the last session, for the same purpose. Under the authority of law, contracts have been made, and are in progress, in executing the designs of the late sculptor, Crawford, and Rogers. We cannot in this manner violate the contracts, and it requires some pro- vision of this kind to save them. I w T ill merely say, in addition, that the act which provided for an art commission has never been executed. There has been no art commission; the thing is a total failure. The only object I now have, is to save these obligations which have been incurred under the law. The amendment was agreed to. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 3, 1859: Congressional Globe, 35 — 2, p. 1611.] The Senate went into Committee of the Whole, resuming the consideration of the Sundry Civil bill for 1860, the pending question being on the following amendment, offered by Mr. Bright, from the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds: And be it further enacted, That, for procuring the necessary furniture for the Senate Chamber, the audience rooms, the committee-rooms, the rooms occupied by the office of the Secretary of the Senate, and other rooms of the north wing of the Capitol in the occupancy of the Senate and its appendages, the superintendent of the Capitol extension be directed to make a survey, and ascer- tain what articles of furniture will be needed, with the materials, designs, and dimensions of the The Extensions. 723 same; ancl that he be, and is hereby, authorized to publish the proper specifications and descriptions of the articles that may be required, and invite sealed proposals to be made to him, within thirty days from the date of the first publication of the same, for the manufacture and construction of the said articles of furniture, to be opened, at the appointed time, in the presence of the bidders or other persons; and that a contract or contracts for such furniture shall be made with the lowest and best bidder, reference being- had to the quality of the material, the superiority of workmanship, and the time in which the same shall be completed; and that proper security shall be taken for the faithful and prompt execution of the work; and that, for the purpose of paying for the said furniture, as it may be completed and delivered to the satisfaction of the said superintendent, such sum of money as may be required therefor be, and the same hereby is, appropriated, to be paid out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated: Provided, That the amount to be expended under this section shall not exceed $50,000. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I move to amend the amendment by striking out all after its enacting clause, and inserting; That the sum of $50,000 be, and the same is hereby, appropriated out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, for the purchase of such furniture as may be required for the north Cap- itol extension, to be expended by the Secretary of the Senate under the direction of the committee to audit and control its contingent expenses. I want it recorded now, that if the original amendment be adopted, the furniture for the various rooms, instead of costing $50,000, will cost the Government over $300, 000. .As to the economy that has been heretofore evinced by the superintend- ent, I think we have evidence around us in this .building to form a judgment. I know it is very easy to make remarks in reference to the taste of particular individ- uals, and when I talk of economy, it is not my intention that things shall be reduced to a point at which they do not comport with the Government, or the wants of those who have to enjoy them. I should like to see these rooms furnished suitably and properly, but, at the same time, economically. I am satisfied that if the rooms be furnished according to the original amendment, under the direction of the Superin- tendent of the Capitol extension, the furniture will cost over $300,000. Mr. Davis. Who says so? Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. I am satisfied of it; and when we look at his economy in erecting the public buildings and in furnishing the other end of the Capitol, I think we may come to a conclusion as to what he will do in this case. We may judge what his action will be in the future from what it has been in the past. If it was necessary, I might call the attention of the Senate to a memorial which has been presented to Congress by an architect, who, as I understand, first prepared the plan of this building, and upon the basis of whose plan the extensions have been made. Take some items of expenditure that he gives, and I think we may have, at least, a vague idea of the kind of economy that would be carried into the furnishing of these rooms if it were left to the superintendent. I have no disposition, however, to consume unnecessarily the time of the Senate. It was remarked last night that the term of the committee to audit the accounts will expire with the session. The Senate meets to-morrow again, however, and can then reorganize the committees. This is a committee under the control of the Senate to audit the accounts of one of its own officers — a gentleman who, I presume, has as good taste in selecting furniture as the superintendent. It is very strange that Sena- tors upon committees, knowing the kind of desks and tables used in the committee- rooms, are not competent to direct an officer of their own making as to the kind of fur- niture they want for their committee-rooms, and be responsible to the Senate and the country for it; but, somehow or other, it seems we have got to such a pass that nothing can be done of the least importance about the Government unless it is placed under the charge of the military department. All the public buildings, it seems, must be carried on under that department, and we cannot even have the committee- rooms of the Capitol furnished now unless it is confided to the War Department. Your own committees and the Secretary of the Senate, it seems, are not competent to select the little articles of furniture suitable to their own rooms. I hope my amendment will be adopted. I am satisfied, I repeat again, and want 724 Documentary History of the Capitol. it remembered, that it will cost $300,000 if left to Mr. Meigs; and besides I shall not be surprised if there were to be a very fat contract under the original amendment. Mr. Hunter. I hope we shall have a vote. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee, called for the yeas and nays; and they were ordered. Mr. Bayard. I shall vote in favor of the amendment to the amendment. I think, as to the furnishing of the Senate Chamber and the committee-rooms, an officer who is connected with the body would be more apt to know the wants and habits of the Senate, and the proper furniture, than to intrust it to any other person. Besides, I have no great faith in the conti'act system, which the original amendment involves. I believe that, with an honest man to deal with, the matter under the supervision of your own committee, your furniture will be furnished at a cheaper rate, and it will he more appropriate, because it will be selected by an officer who is competent, from his knowledge of the business habits of Senators and their wants, to know what it is proper to buy. I do not think it at all connects itself with the construction of the Capitol. As regards that, I differ from many opinions I have heard expressed. I do not charge extravagance at all on any officer who has had charge of the Capitol. I think the fault lies with ourselves. We were constantly, when the Treasury was full, in the habit of making appropriations to urge this building on to a very splendid completion. I have no objection to the external structure; I differ in taste as to some of the internal adornments. As an illustration, to show that the fault belongs to our- selves, I may mention that, in the first instance, when the dome of the Capitol was removed, it was done by an amendment tacked on by Congress to an appropriation bill, without any recommendation from the architect or the superintendent; and then, when the appropriation was made to take down that dome, it was removed, and, of course, everybody was surprised to find that we had to put a new dome in its place at a very heavy expense. That is the way we make these expenditures; and then we charge them on other persons. That was the mode in which that appropria- tion was originally made, without the report of a committee, and without any recom- mendation from the architect or superintendent. One hundred thousand dollars were appropriated to take down the old dome of the Capitol; and of course, when it was taken down, we had to make provision to supply its place; and then we had to go to those who had charge of it for the purpose of giving us estimates and plans for the construction of a new dome. Mr. Davis. If my friend from Delaware will allow me, I wish to state a fact to him. I do not propose to enter into this discussion, though it would be very easy to refute the charges which have been made. They may go for what they are worth; other people will judge of them. I want merely to state a fact in that connection. A plan for a dome, drawn by the person then and now architect, was exhibited in the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Public Buildings of that House adopted that plan, and proposed an appropriation, which was agreed to. At a subsequent year, the inquiry was made, what would the dome cost? The officer in charge of the work had made no estimate, because he had had no connection with it. An inquiry was sent to the War Department, and the answer was that “we made no estimates, for we had no connection with it.” The then Secretary (who was myself) not being in favor of the dome at all, being opposed to it, and having endeavored to get the committee not to commence it, it was necessary to send to the architect who had made the drawing, and ask him what he thought it would cost. A rough guess was sent back ; and Congress has been legislating on that. Mr. Bayard. I think the honorable Senator is mistaken with regard to the legisla- tion as to the dome. I was then chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings of the Senate. The appropriation came to us as an appropriation to take down the old dome, alone, and no more; and, on inquiry of members of the House of Representa- tives, 1 learned that the appropriation was inserted without a recommendation of a committee, and without reference, at all, to what was to be put in its place. I merely mention this as an illustration. The Extensions. 725 Mr. Foster. I move to lay the amendment to the amendment and the amendment on the table. Mr. Hunter. That will take the whole bill on the table. Mr. Foster. I withdraw my motion. The question being taken by yeas and nays on the amendment of Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee, to the amendment of Mr. Bright resulted — yeas 19, nays 29; * * * So the amendment to the amendment was rejected. The Vice President. The question recurs on the amendment of the Senator from Indiana. Mr. Mason. I desire to know whether there is now any limitation on the appro- priation? The Vice President. The amendment reads: Provided , That the amount expended under this section shall not exceed $50,000. The amendment was agreed to. [House proceedings of Mar. 3, 1859: Congressional Globe, 35 — 2, pp. 1669-71.] ARRANGEMENT OF THE HALL. Mr. Miles. I ask the unanimous consent of the House to take up the report of the select committee in relation to seats of members, &c., which was some time ago ordered to be printed by the House, and is now in the document room. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. It is too late in the session to bring up that report. I object. Mr. Miles. I move to suspend the rules. The report is very short. 1 ask that it may be read. Mr. Phelps, of Missouri. With the permission of the gentleman from South Caro- lina, to whom the floor has been assigned, I ask unanimous consent of the House to take a recess until seven and a half o’clock. Mr. Gartrell. I object. Mr. Washburn, of Maine. It will be understood that the gentleman from South Carolina will have the floor as soon as the House reassembles. I hope the proposi- tion of the gentleman from Missouri will be agreed to, and we shall take a recess. Mr. Phelps, of Missouri. With that understanding, I ask the gentleman from South Carolina to give me the floor to enable me to move to suspend the rules for that purpose. Mr. Miles. I am willing to withdraw my motion, if it is the general understanding that I shall have the floor when the House reassembles. [Cries of “Agreed!”] Mr. Phelps, of Missouri. I move, then, to suspend the rules for the purpose of enabling me to make the motion that the House take a recess until seven and a half o’clock. I will remark that it is probable we shall be in session all night; and I hope the House will take a recess, to enable members to obtain rest. * * * EVENING SESSION. The House resumed its session at seven and a half o’clock, p. m. REARRANGEMENT OF THE HALL. The Speaker pro tempore , (Mr. Bocock in the chair.) When the House took a recess, the question pending was a motion of the gentleman from South Caroliiia [Mr. Miles] to suspend the rules for the introduction of a report from the special committee to whom was referred the resolution of the House of December 23, direct- ing them “to consider and report upon the expediency of removing the present desks from the Hall, and making such a rearrangement of the seats of members as 726 Documentary History of the Capitol. will bring them together into a smaller space, so as to insure greater facility of hear- ing and more orderly debate. Mr. Miles. Mr. Speaker, I sought the floor this morning with a view of testing the sense of the House on the proposition of the select committee. Mr. Edie. Is the motion to suspend the rules debatable? The Speaker. It is not; but the gentleman from South Carolina has the right tc state the matter upon which a suspension is asked. Mr. Tompkins. I object to debate. Mr. Miles. I ask that the report be read. It will consume but a minute or two. Mr. Morgan. I object. Mr. Burnett. I suggest that, as there is not a quorum present, the rejiort had bet- ter be allowed to be read. Objection was withdrawn. The Clerk read the report, as follows: That they have given the matter due consideration, and have come, unanimously, to the conclusion that the removal of the desks, and bringing members together into a more compact area, is not only expedient and desirable, but would, if effected, be, in itself, a most important step towards many legislative reforms. So far as the desks are concerned, your committee feel — some of them from their own personal experi- ence — that they have become a nuisance. The chief argument for retaining them is the strongest reason for their abolition, namely: the convenient facility which they afford members for writing letters and franking documents. It would certainly seem as if the very first duty as a Representative in Congress "was not simply to attend bodily in his place, but to listen to, understand, and, when occasion requires it, par- ticipate in the discussions and proceedings of the body of which he is a member. This is a truth so self-evident that its enunciation is almost superfluous. But we ask any honorable member candidly to say, whether he has found it practicable, in his own experience, while absorbed in writing letters at his desk, to attend to -what is going on in the House? If it be urged that there are times when even the most con- scientious member may feel that he is not called upon to listen attentively; as dur- ing the reading of prosy manuscript speeches, or the delivering of ad captandum “ Buncombe” ones, really not addressed to the House, nor intended to influence its action; still we may reply that the very resource of the desks, upon which so many fall back as a refuge against dullness or empty sound, contributes to perpetuate the infliction, upon the country, of evils from which we manage partially to protect our- selves. There can be little doubt that, if there were no desks in the Hall, a very decided improvement would take place in the character of congressional speeches. No one, whose misfortune it may have been to be compelled for any purpose to wade through the interminable columns of the Daily Globe, can doubt that this is a “con- summation devoutly to be wished.” But it is not merely because the desks with- draw the attention of members from the business legitimately before them — which it is their sworn and paid duty to attend to — that their removal is desirable. The space occupied by the present arrangement of chairs and desks is so large that it is always difficult and sometimes impossible for those at a distance from the Clerk or from the member speakinar. to hear distinctly. This arises not from any acoustic defect in the Hall, but simply from its immense size. The result is, that resolutions have to be reported or remarks repeated so often that not only much valuable time is lost, but a degree of noise and confusion ensues very unfavorable to calm and deliberate discussion. It may not be inappropriate in this connection to remark that the English House of Commons, numbering six hundred and fifty-four members, holds its sessions in a hall very much smaller than our own, which has to accom- modate but two hundred and thirty-six members. Neither Lords nor Commons, however, in England, have desks, and the arrangement of their seats in consequence is so compact as to bring them into a comparatively concentrated area. Your committee have conferred freely with Captain Meigs, the able and accom- 727 * The Extensions. plished superintendent of the Capitol extension, who very kindly, at their instance, prepared a diagram of the floor of the House, to assist them in their examination. He also went through with them various measurements, both on the drawing and in the Hall itself, with a view to ascertain into how much smaller space members might be comfortably and conveniently seated. As the result of these experiments, we are authorized to say that Captain Meigs considers it perfectly practicable to make such an arrangement of seats as will bring members near enough together to see and hear each other distinctly. This is surely a great desideratum, and ought in itself to reconcile members to the loss of the purely selfish enjoyment of their desks. When honorable gentlemen can make themselves heard without screaming themselves hoarse, and hope to catch the Speaker’s eye and obtain the floor without scrambling for it with the noise and vociferation of schoolboys scrambling for an apple; when the distinct reading of a resolution or report once or twice from the Clerk’s desk will put the entire House in possession of it, we may then expect to have quiet, decorous, and orderly debate; real, legitimate discussion of the subject-matter pend- ing before us, instead of interminable discussions, dc quolibet ente, addressed in point of fact to different constituencies, and not even intended for the ear of the House. To meet the objection which may be urged against the removal of the desks, that they are necessary at times for the purpose of writing resolutions or supporting books of reference, &c., we would say, that in the rearrangement of the Ilall, in the plan contemplated, ample facilities would be afforded for these purposes. A table placed in the open space in front of the Speaker’s seat would, in itself, be sufficient for both these objects, and would be a convenient spot from which to read extracts from authorities cited in debate. Large tables might also be placed in the corners of the Hall, and supplied with writing materials. Besides, with our present convenient retiring rooms, so immediately adjacent and opening upon our own private lobby, there would be abundant opportunity for writing afforded those who might at any particular time not consider their presence necessary in the House. It would require but a few seconds, certainly not half a minute, to summon a member from either of these rooms in case of a vote, or the coming up of any matter in which he might feel an interest. In conclusion, your committee have to say, that thej^ verily believe that, small and comparatively insignificant as the reform which they advocate may now seem, yet, should the House adopt it, the advantages which will flow from it will very soon be so numerous and apparent as not only to impress Congress, but the country at large. It will then be a matter of surprise to all that a plan so simple, natural, and obvious should not have been sooner adopted. Your committee recommended the passage of the following resolution: “ Resolved , That the superintendent of the Capitol extension be directed, after the adjournment of the present session of Congress, to remove the desks from the Hall of the House, and to make such a rearrangement of the seats of members as will bring them together into the smallest convenient space.” Wm. Poechee Miles, Geo. II. Pendleton, J. Letchee, E. Joy Moeeis, I. Washburn, Jr. Mr. Washburn, of Maine. Is the question now on suspending the rules to enable the gentleman from South Carolina to introduce the resolution? The Speaker pro teynpore. It is. Mr. Washburn, of Maine. Then I hope the rules will be suspended. Several Members. I hope they will not. Mr. Washburn, of Maine. I am satisfied that it will be the greatest reform that can be accomplished by this Congress. [Loud cries to order. ] 728 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Miles called for the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered. The question was taken; and it was decided in the affirmative — yeas 123, nays 56. * * * So (two thirds voting in favor thereof) the rules were suspended. Mr. Davis, of Mississippi, not being in the Hall when his name was called, asked leave to vote. Objection was made. Mr. Underwood made a similar request. Objection was made. Mr. McRea stated that, if he had been in the Hall when his name was called, he would have voted for the removal of the desks. * * * ARRANGEMENT OF THE HALL. Mr. Burnett. I rise to a question of order. It is impossible to hear or understand anything that is going on in the hall. Mr. John Cochrane. I submit, Mr. Speaker, that that is owing to the desks. [Laughter. ] Mr. Miles. I now ask to submit the resolution to the House and move the previous question. The resolution was read, as follows: Resolved, That the Superintendent of the Capitol extension be directed, after the adjournment of the present session of Congress, to remove the desks from the Hall of the House, and to make such a re-arrangement of the seats of members as will bring them together into the smallest convenient space. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. I move to lay the resolution on the table; and on that I call for the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered. Mr. Clay. Is it proper to inquire what is to become of these desks that have cost ninety or one hundred dollars apiece? Mr. Washburn, of Maine. They will be retained, so as, if the experiment be not successful, they may be returned to the hall. Mr. Kelsey. I have an amendment which will provide for that, if I get an oppor- tunity to offer it. Mr. McRae. I want to see them consigned to the tomb of the Capulets. The question was taken; and it was decided in the negative — yeas 81, nays 107. * * * So the House refused to lay the resolution on the table. * * * ARRANGEMENT OF THE HALL — AGAIN. The question recurred on Mr. Miles’s resolution. The previous question was seconded, and the main question ordered. Mr. Kelsey. I wish to offer an amendment for the disposal of the desks. Will the gentleman from South Carolina allow my amendment to be reported? The Speaker pro tempore. The previous question has been seconded; and the amendment cannot be reported, except by unanimous consent. Mr. Clark, of Missouri. I object. Mr. Jones, of Tennessee. I wish, by unanimous consent, to make another prop- os'd ion . That is, to direct the superintendent to have the old Hall fitted up without seats, and make the experiment there. Mr. Davis, of Mississippi, called for the yeas and nays on the passage of the reso- lution. The yeas and nays were ordered. The Extensions. 729 The question was taken; and it was decided in the affirmative — yeas 103, nays 73. * * * So the resolution was adopted. Mr. Miles moved to reconsider the vote by which the resolution was adopted; and also moved to lay the motion to reconsider on the table. The latter motion was agreed to. Mr. Maynard. I rise to a question of privilege. I offer the following resolution : Resolved , That the Clerk be directed to have the old Hall of the House fitted up, without either desks or chairs, for the convenience of the next House of Representatives; and that he convene the next House therein, having the present Hall fitted up and furnished as it now is. I think that that resolution relates to the privileges of the House, and takes pre- cedence of every other question. The Speaker pro tempore. The Chair decides that that is not a matter of privilege. [House of Representatives. Report No. 198. 35th Congress, 2d session. American Artists. March 3, 1859. — Laid on the table, and ordered to be printed.] Mr. Humphrey Marshall, from the select committee, submitted the following report. The select committee to whom was referred the memorial of the artists of the United States report: Your committee, consisting of five — Messrs. Humphrey Marshall, Lawtience W. Iveitt, George Taylor, Edward Joy Morris, and George H. Pendleton — were appointed on the 1st day of June, 1858, in pursuance of the following resolution: Resolved, That the memorial of the artists of the United States be, and the same is hereby, referred to a select committee of five, to be appointed by the Speaker, with instructions to report upon the expediency of granting the petition of the memorial- ists, and with power to report by bill or otherwise. Your committee have given to this important subject as much time as it was possi- ble under the pressure of other legislative duties. The “Art Commission” asked for by the artists of the United States in their memorial your committee consider impor- tant and proper; but as a provision for such a commission has been made in the clause of the appropriation bill far the Capitol extension, your committee have not recommended a joint resolution for that purpose. If the clause inserted in the appro- priation bill is fully carried out it will lead to such further and other legislation as the subject requires. Painting and sculpture are the handmaidens of history to record the traits and characteristics of national life, and to convey to after ages, by images presented to the eye, the costumes, arts, and civilization of such periods as the artist may embody upon his canvas or grave upon the marble. The ruins of Nineveh and Babylon furnish from their buried walls and broken statuary a more correct idea of the civili- zation that existed within them than enterprise can now gather from any other sources. Art is language; and it is peculiarly useful as an index to the civilization of a people — a key to the volume of their national life. The eye of intelligence hunts for the hidden mysteries of past greatness among such works of art as the antiqua- rian can discover, and the mind of the student-artist reproduces, by the aid of these, the living picture of ages long since passed and almost forgotten. The American people have a history many of whose passages deserve to be engraved upon imperishable materials. It embodies a new idea. It imports an advanced step in the elevation of man to the true dignity of his nature. It has been developed through circumstances of difficulty and danger which have afforded oppor- tunities for the display of the most conspicuous examples of valor, prudence, forti- tude, genius, wisdom, and patriotism, each of which Art should commemorate in such connexion as to render it part of the nation’s fame. How shall this history be written in the most enduring form? Painting and sculpture can write it to be read 730 Documentary History of the Capitol. by future times as we now read the story of buried cities, whose relics of art are the only monuments of them that stand; the more perishable materials of their letters have been swept away by time. Pericles and Phidias live yet in the classic lines of the Parthenon. Michael Angelo secured an immortal name in the majestic pile of St. Peters. Other nations have promoted the arts by offering the masters of their art-professions public employment in planning or executing the structure and decora- tive designs of public buildings and grounds, and this committee know of no instance where such encouragement has failed to meet a recompense in some work worthy the fame of the artist and of his patron. Why may not American artists turn with solicitude to their government for similar encouragement? The Capitol of the United States is a most extensive edifice, on the structure of which millions of the public treasure have already been expended, and in the decoration of which, by statuary and painting, the widest field is open for the genius of our artists. It might have been made a splendid testimony of the national taste by being adorned with illustrations of American history. For this purpose no class of men could have been employed, with more assurance of success, both for designs and execution, than the practical and professional artists of our own country who have attained the front rank of their profession. No other class of the people combine the same knowledge of coloring, of forms, and the various objects of professional skill, that these memorialists cer- tainly possess, and there are none superior to them in the sentiment of true patriot- ism. The committee have not been informed that American artists have been engaged upon the embellishment of the Capitol, but they have been made painfully conscious that the work has been prosecuted by foreign workmen under the imme- diate supervision of a foreigner. As a consequence, the committee find nothing in the design and execution of the ornamental work of the Capitol, thus far, which represents our own country, or the genius and taste of her artists. The first point to be ascertained in the prosecution of so great a work is to learn what can be done; next, how it is to be done, and by whom? A general plan of decoration should be determined upon — a classification of the parts of the entire building, and an appro- priation of these parts to particular departments of art. There is no necessity to attempt to fill up niches and panels immediately — that should be the work of time, and for the employment of the highest professional skill and taste. In the mean- while the expenditure of money uselessly might profitably be avoided by leaving the niches vacant and the panels unfilled, and the other parts of the building it may be designed to embellish only so far dressed as not to offend the spectator. A plain coat or two of whitewash is better, in the opinion of this committee, for a temporary finish than ‘ ‘ the tawdry and exuberant ornament with which many of the rooms and passages are being crowded.” This special committee, not finding themselves clothed with instructions to present any general plan or design for the completion of the work, have not entered upon the consideration of any specific proposition, and have none, therefore, to be sub- mitted to Congress at this time. But the committee have considered the course taken by other governments under similar circumstances to those in which the United States are now placed in regard to the Capitol and public buildings of the country, and think it may not be without advantage that some reference thereto should be embodied in this report, accompanied by a general suggestion from this committee. A few years ago England was precisely in the same condition as our own in rela- tion to the development of art. The erection of the new houses of Parliament pre- sented the occasion for that government to demand the aid of art in their decoration, and it was embraced by the public authorities to illustrate upon enduring monu- ments before posterity the character of Great Britain as a civilized nation and her artistic appreciation of those passages in British history which deserved to be com- memorated throughout future times. Her artists had therefore been compelled to seek commissions from individuals which could be indulged in by the wealthy only. Art had not been cherished as important to education, or as conducive especially to TJie Extensions. 731 national refinement; as a blessing to the poor, or as a means of information and elevation to all classes who had access to the public buildings. The erection of the new Parliament house was accepted as the proper era for a new development in this direction. Accordingly a select committee was raised to devise the best means of accomplishing such development through the opportunity which was then afforded to encourage arts. This committee was very thorough in its investigations. Testi- mony of the most distinguished artists in the world was taken; agents were sent abroad to examine the various schools and methods of painting, and the information obtained by their researches is embodied in reports made to Parliament, to which your committee have had access, and which may be found in the library of Congress, in Parliamentary Papers for 1841-’42-’43-’44, vols. 6, 25, 29, 31. — (See extracts in Appendix marked “B” and “C.”) During the course of the investigation a question was asked of Sir Martin Arthur Shee which deserves especial consideration both for the point it presents and the answers it elicited. Question. What would be your opinion as to the employment of foreign artists? Answer. If the object is to encourage the arts of our country, to elevate its character, Ac., then I should think the proper mode would be to employ and cultivate native talent. If I am correct in supposing that the object of the committee in the present instance is to render the opportunity which the building of the houses of Parliament now affords available for the promotion of the fine arts; that the object of the committee is not so much to forward the arts themselves, as, through their influence, to advance the great end toward which the promotion of the arts can be considered but as a means— the civilization of our people; to give to their minds a direction which may tend to with- draw them from habits of gross and sensual indulgence; to secure and sustain the intellectual supremacy of our country, not only with respect to the present age, but with reference to posterity; and, above all, to prove that we are capable of appreciating those exploits of patriotism, those exer- tions of wisdom and virtue, which have adorned the annals of British history, and that we are not at a loss fortalents worthy of being employed in their commemoration; if these are the objects which the committee have in view, I humbly conceive that the employment of foreigners on the occasion supposed would be inappropriate and inconsistent with such purposes.” Others corroborated this opinion, and the competition which was invited for the work was finally confined to British subjects, including foreigners who may have resided ten years or upwards in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. The result of these investigations was an appointment of an Art Commission, com- prising four of the most eminent artists who have had the superintendence of the decoration and embellishment of their public buildings, and the result has been to place art in England, by this timely national aid, upon a secure and permanent basis, calculated to encourage the young and aspiring, and to do justice to the old and more experienced artists. Thus a corps of able men has been training for the work, and a series of important historic pictures and sculptures have been produced which private patronage never would have called forth. Your committee believe that the adoption of a system equally liberal and judicious would insure results here equally satisfac- tory and desirable. There is no want of talent among the artists of the United States, as their works and foreign reputation abundantly attest. There is in the genius of free institutions a spirit which should and will give to taste, and skill, and the poetic illustrations of those qualities which ennoble a nation and “adorn a man,” more powerful development in the United States than they could have under other systems of government. What the artist wants is recognition by his country — encouragement, protection, employment — when it can be properly afforded, and then he will produce results worthy of the age and the land in which he lives. But the history of art in all countries proves that without national aid art never has reached its highest development. It is said that “all artists know that the prepara- tion for painting or modelling an important work requires as much or more labor and study than the execution of it; and without some incentive beyond the precarious- ness of private patronage, and while wanting the sympathy of their government — the greatest of all stimulants to noble exertion — the higher walks of art must be neglected.” Let American artists, then, feel the sustaining hand of their government through the 732 Documentary History of the Capitol. intelligent management of an Art Commission appointed under a resolution of Congress, and whose functions shall be confined to the selection of designs for the embellishment of the Capitol and other public buildings and grounds at this national metropolis, and this committee entertain no doubt that the result will vindicate the ability of American artists to compete with any known to the world. But so long as by the employment of foreign artists and foreign workmen upon every department of the public buildings, whether mechanical, architectural, or ornamental, the native artist feels that some power divorces him from public sympathy, and that his profession and his proficiency in it are unappreciated by his country, we shall be deprived of the ennobling and healthful influence of his genius. The erection and embellishment of the nation’ s Capitol affords the opportunity for Congress to encourage American art and to develop American genius in the departments of art. At the risk of unfriendly criticism, this committee ventures the suggestion that the field of compe- tition should be confined to citizens of the United States, because art, to be living, must be projected from the life of a people; to be appreciated, it must be familiar, must partake of the nature and habits of the people for whom it is intended, and must reflect their life, history, hopes, and aspirations. The committee regret to be compelled to observe the deficiency in this particular, so far as the decorative work in the Capitol extension has progressed. An eagle and the national flag may be discovered occasionally amidst the confusion of scroll-work and mythological figures presented to the eye; but the presence of conventional gods and goddesses, with meaningless scrolls and arabesques, albeit they may be wrapped in the “red, white, and blue,” will never suggest to the American, as he wanders among the halls and committee rooms, any idea to touch his heart or to inspire his patriotism. He beholds nothing to remind him of the grandeur of his country, its origin or history; nothing to make him seek these halls again to refresh his memory of the deeds of the good and great, who won the independence and secured the liber- ties, or expanded the boundaries of a great nation! Should he seek an explanation from those who are manufacturing the cumbrous levities which everywhere appear through the building, he will be eminently fortunate should he find among them one who speaks the English language. The committee think that upon this great work the artists and the workmen of our own country should be employed; that every stone in the edifice should be laid and every line and figure within its halls and passages should be the work of our own citizens. There are many points connected with the decorative, but apparently belonging to, or included within, the archi- tectural departments of the building which suggest criticism; ornaments which are out of place; elaborate bronze mouldings screwed upon wooden panels; heavily ornamented bronze railing upon private stairways, all extremely expensive, and placed where ornamentation seems unnecessary. But this committee will not go into particulars in selecting points for criticism where doubtless there has been an honest effort to produce effect. An inspection of the work will suggest the idea to every one that there has been the most prodigal liberality in placing upon its interior much which the good taste of those who come after us will dispense with or replace. At all events, enough has been said to prove that there is a propriety in changing the present system and of establishing a new mode of conducting the work. The committee are of opinion that, in the adoption of such new mode, the establishment of an Art Commission which shall suggest a general plan of decora- tion and embellishment is the first step to be taken, and that upon the rendition of a report by such a commission to the next Congress, there may be pointed out a correct system which can be pursued with true economy by being pursued at leisure and according to the will of Congress expressed from time to time. In this way the broadest field of competition may be opened to American artists and great encourage ment given to American art. The opportunity to afford this stimulant to the exertion of American artists should not be permitted by Congress to pass away without improving it. The walls The Extensions. 733 and niches of this Capitol -should be dedicated to American art, and Genius should be invited to lavish upon them its brightest conceptions, always, however, illustrative of American history, which is rich in noble exploits by sea and land. Upon these walls should be recorded the heroic deeds which the nation loves to remember. In these niches should be collected the statues of American statesmen and patriots who would speak from the silent marble, and by their mere presence animate the coun- cils of the living and inspire them to virtue and honor. These are legacies worthy of being transmitted to the future, and which the future will demand of us. The statesman and the artist should join in this noble work and permit no profanation of it. We are writing now a history which should be true, as it will be handed to pos- terity. Let it illustrate American life. Appendix A. — Memorial. To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States: The memorial of the artists of the United States, in convention assembled, respect- fully represents: That your memorialists appear before your honorable bodies to solicit for Ameri- can art that consideration and encouragement to which they conceive it to be entitled at the hands of the general government. They cannot but deem it a matter of deep regret that so important an element of national progress should have received as yet so limited a share of attention at the hands of our legislators, and that opportunities for the illustration of our country’s history, rich as it is in material for the pencil and the chisel, should have been, with a few exceptions, denied to those whose province it is, and whose pride it would be, to embody in enduring and beautiful forms, for the benefit of our own and future generations, all that is glorious and ennobling in our history, character, and life, as a people. Your memorialists submit that the time is now at hand when we may assume a position in the world of art as enviable and exalted as that which we have attained in our social and political relations; that the capacity of our artists to accomplish this glorious end is abundant, and that the appropriate field for its development and exercise is in the adornment and completion of the noble structures now being reared by the nation for the nation’s use. A liberal, systematic, and enlightened encouragement is, they believe, all that is needed for the establishment of a national art that shall worthily illustrate the genius of our institutions; and they cherish the earnest hope that the golden opportunity now afforded, in the erection of spacious and costly buildings, will not be neglected, but that, by the wisdom of the means adopted by your honorable bodies, an impulse may be given to the cause of American art, the beneficent and ennobling influences of which shall extend to our remotest posterity. Your memorialists respectfully urge, that the great end proposed, viz: 1 ‘ the advance- ment of art in the United States,” may be most surely and completely attained by the establishment of an Art Commission, composed of those designated by the united voice of American artists as competent to the office, who shall be accepted as the exponents of the authority and influence of American art, who shall be the chan- nels for the distribution of all appropriations to be made by Congress for art pur- poses, and who shall secure to artists an intelligent and unbiased adjudication upon the designs they may present for the embellishment of the national buildings. Y our memorialists believe that the appointment of such a commission would be hailed throughout the country as an evidence of a just and generous appreciation by your honorable bodies of the claims and interests of art, and would secure for it a future commensurate with the exalted character of the history and the times which it is its purpose to commemorate. Rembrandt Peale, Philadelphia; J. R. Lambdin, Philadelphia; H. K. Brown, New York; John Cranch, Washington, D. C. ; W. D. Washington, Washington, 734 Documentary History of the Capitol. D. C. ; J. M. Stanley, Washington, D. C. ; Thomas G. Clemson, Maryland; Horatio Stone, Washington, D. C.; Peter Baumgrass, Washington, D. C. ; Johannes A. Oertel, Washington, D. C.; William S. Tiffany, Baltimore; 0. Schuessele, Phila- delphia; George W. Conarroe, Philadelphia; Phineas Staunton, New York; William Heine, New York; Fridolen Schlegel, New York; William H. Rinehart, Baltimore; John Sartain, Philadelphia; Henry D. Saunders, Philadelphia; Thomas Ball, Bos- ton; Henry F. Darby, New York; M. B. Brady, New York; Albert Bierstadt, Boston; A. B. Durand, P. N. A., New York; Th. S. Cummings, V. P. N. A., New York; Henry Peters Gray, New York; Charles C. Ingham, New York; J. B. Stearns, New York; J. R. Brevoort, New York ; William Hart, New York; E. W. Nichols, New York; J. H. Shegogue, New York; James A. Suydam, New York; S. R. Gifford, New York; John W. Ehninger, New York; Trevor McCleery, New Y r ork; R. M. Pratt, New Y r ork; James IP. Cafferty, New York; T. Addison Richards, New York; R. W. Hubbard, New Y r ork; Marcus Waterman, New York; William Ingram, New York; H. White, New York; A. D. Shattuck, New York; C. L. Elliott, New York; Alanson Fisher, New York; George A. Baker, New York; John Pope, New York; Albert F. Bellows, New York; Edward D. E. Greene, New York; W. P. Morgan, New York; William Oliver Stone, New York; James H. Wright, New York; A. B. Moore, New York; J. D. Blondell, New York; Richard M. Staigg, New York; Louis R. Minot, New York; Marmaduke Pierce Wilson, New York; J. S. Perkins, New York; N. B. Ivittell, New York; John Williamson, New York; D. M. Carter, New Y r ork; A. F. Tait, New York; George Inness, New York; E. Greatorex, New York; George PI . Hall, New York; James L. Dick, New York; Thomas Sully, Phila- delphia; George C. Lambdin, Philadelphia; Isaac L. Williams, Philadelphia; W. H. Furness, jr. , Philadelphia; Alexander Laurie, Philadelphia; C. H. Schmolze, Phila- delphia; Samuel Sartain, Philadelphia; William T. Richards, Philadelphia; Paul Weber, Philadelphia; W. F. Jones, Philadelphia; J. A. Badly, Philadelphia; Edward Stanch, Philadelphia; Augustus Wegner, Philadelphia; A. Hohenstein, Phila- delphia; Albert W. Janvier, Philadelphia; Stephen J. Ferriss, Philadelphia; Rus- sell Smith, Philadelphia; A. B. Roekey, Philadelphia; Joseph B. Howell, Philadel- phia; E. D. Marchant, Philadelphia; Henry A. Marehant, Philadelphia; Edward Bowers, Philadelphia; W. Sanford Mason, Philadelphia; E. Wood Perry, jr., Phila- delphia; James K. Harley, Baltimore; John Robertson, Baltimore; F. B. Mayer, Baltimore; Thomas W. Wood, Baltimore; C. D. Sauerivein, Baltimore; Hugh Newell, Baltimore; Alfred J. Miller, Baltimore; William S. Tiffany, Baltimore; G. II. Fuller, Montgomery, Alabama; E. F. Billings, Montgomery, Alabama; Albert Bierstadt, New Bedford; G. H. Cushman, Boston; Charles Haskins, Washington, D. C. ; Charles A. Alexander, Washington, D. C. ; W. Allan Gay, Boston; W. Wil- lard, Boston; Hammatt Billings, Boston; Thomas S. Spear, Boston; Samuel L. Gerry, Boston; Samuel W. Griggs, Boston; Alfred Ordway, Boston; M. F. Foley, Boston; Walter M. Brackett, Boston; Thomas M. Johnston, Boston; S. P. Hodgson, Boston; D. C. Johnston, Boston; John Pope, Boston; Frederic D. Williams, Boston; M. G. Whitlock, Boston; Joseph Ames, Boston; E. A. Brackett, Boston; J. A. Jackson, Boston; M. Wight, Boston; II. C. Pratt, Boston; Alonzo Hartwell, Boston; P. Stephenson, Boston. Appendix B. — Extracts taken from the testimony given before the English commission by Sir Martin Archer Shee. * * * Appendix C. — The general object of the commission considered in relation to the state and 'prospects of the English School of Painting. Extracts from the papers of C. L. Eastlake, esq., Secretary. * * * The Extensions. 735 Appendix D. — Observations on the principles which may regulate the selection of subjects for painting in the palace at Westminster, by Mr. Hallam. The determination of her Majesty’s government and of Parliament to restore the buildings appropriated to the estates of the realm in a manner befitting the national grandeur and the dignity of their functions has not unnaturally suggested a wish that, with architectural splendor, the excellencies of other arts, especially those of painting and sculpture, might be combined. The commission to which I have the honor to belong was expressly appointed to consider how far this might be carried into effect for the encouragement of the line arts in England ; but these words seem to intimate a still further and, it may be said, a still more important object than the immediate one of giving additional magnificence to the new houses of Parliament — - the object of promoting the fine arts in this country, and raising its general estimation as a school of painting and sculpture among mankind. It has long been a common remark that our English painters — and it is chiefly to painting that I would now confine myself — with extraordinary merits in many departments of their art, have not very greatly cultivated, at least in large pictures, that higher style which we commonly call historical, though comprehending more than actual history. Few who know what some have done will ascribe this to nat- ural deficiency of genius adapted to such work; but it would not be difficult to assign several real causes adequate to explain the fact. It is only with one that we can here have to do, and that is abundantly sufficient. The general size of private houses excludes pictures of large dimensions, while our public buildings, though frequently containing apartments capable of receiving them, have either not been applied to such a purpose, or, as has too frequently been the case, have been occupied by works of such inferior merit or upon such uninteresting subjects as to check any desire that might have arisen to see the art of painting more extensively put in requisition. With respect to churches, it is evident that partly on account of expense, and partly from other impediments, unlikely to be removed, they have in few instances become the depositories of valuable works of art. It is, therefore, an important circumstance that, in the plan of the new edifice which is rising under the superintendence of Mr. Barry, several apartments will exist of sufficient magnitude to receive larger pictures than can easily find admittance into jirivate houses, and of as great excellence as the artists of this kingdom can produce. The competition invited last year for cartoons, and which is generally supposed to have drawn forth no inconsiderable degree of ability in the highest line of art, that of historical invention and composition, Avas founded on no other principle. If, therefore, the development of native genius in historical painting, and the pro- duction of what is absolutely best, ought to be principally encouraged as well for the sake of the splendor of the new palace, as of placing our successful artists on a proper footing, it seems that we should be cautious of restraining too much their talents by any limitation incompatible with their fullest exercise. And here, as it appears to me, a certain difficulty may arise. No one probably would wish to treat the build- ings connected with the assembly of the legislature, and to be consecrated, we hope, hereafter by so many improving associations, as mere galleries, where nothing in the works of the painter or sculptor is to be in harmony with the general design. Such would, I conceive, be the worst of two extremes, did it appear necessary to choose any extreme at all. In our halls of Parliament, or as we approach them, let us behold the images of famous men; of sovereigns, by whom the two Houses of Peers and Commons have been in successive ages called together; of statesmen and orators, to whom they owed the greatest part of their lustre, and whose memory, now hal- lowed by time, we cherish with a more unanimous respect than contemporary pas- sions always afford. It is for this reason that I do not much interfere with sculpture; though it is not evident that the ideal of that art, which of course is its noblest object, need altogether to be excluded. Nor do I discuss the propriety of historical portraits. 736 Documentary History of the Capitol. But in large works of painting, either in fresco or oil, but especially in the former, it does appear to me more than doubtful whether the artist should in all instances, and in all parts of the building, be confined to our British history. It is impossible for me not to feel my own incompetency to offer any opinion on an art which, as such, I so little understand. Still, there are truths as to historic painting which lie almost on the surface. It requires no skill to have observed that in the selection and management of subjects a painter will prefer, wherever his choice is truly free, those which give most scope for the beauties of his art. Among these we may of course reckon such as exhibit the human form to a considerable degree uncovered; such as throw into action and excite the sympathy of the spectator by the ideas of energy or of grace; such as intermingle female beauty, without which pictures, at least a series of them, will generally be unattractive; such as furnish the eye with the repose of massy and broad draperies, 'which is strictly a physical pleasure, and for vrant of which we soon turn from many representations of modern events, however creditable to the artist; such as are consistent with landscape and other accessories. * * * Appendix E. — Letter on the same subject, from the Right Hon. Viscount Mahon to the Right Hon. Sir Robert Peel. * * * [From the “ act making Appropriations for sundry Civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty,” approved Mar. 3, 1859. (Stats, at Large, v. 11, 128.)] For United States Capitol extension, four hundred thousand dollars: Provided, That none of the money hereby appropriated shall be expended in the decoration and embellishment of the Capitol extension by sculpture or paintings, unless the same shall have been approved by the Art Commission authorized by the act of twelfth June, eighteen hundred and fifty-eight, in the manner stated in said act; but this provision shall not be so construed as to interfere with the completion and pay- ment for works already begun by Crawford and Rogers, or the completion of the painting of rooms in the north wing already partly painted. [Annual report of Capt. M. C. Meigs, in charge of the Capitol Extension, Oct. 27, .1859. (36—1, Senate Ex. Doc. No. 2, v. 2, p. 561.)] United States Capitol Extension Office, Washington, October 27, 1859. Sir: I have the honor to report the progress of operations upon the extension of the Capitol, during the past year. At the date of the last annual report, the Hall of Representatives had been in use during one session of Congress, and the Senate chamber was so far advanced that its completion was expected in the course of the month of December. The Senate, on the 23d December, passed a resolution directing that the Senate chamber should be prepared for the occupancy of the Senate by the 4th January, and appointed a committee of three Senators to make the necessary arrangements. Under the direction of the committee, the room was accordingly made ready, and the Senate assembled in the new chamber, for the first time, on the 4th January last. The use of the chamber showed some defects in the mode of introducing the large quantities of air required for ventilation. Alterations, designed to remedy these defects, have been made during the recess. They are described in a subsequent part of this report. The interior of the Capitol extension is now very nearly completed. The rooms intended for libraries of Senate and House, and the document room over the connecting corridor between the north wing and the old building, are not The Extensions. 737 yet fitted up. But all the other committee-rooms, passages, and corridors, in both wings, have been plastered, and are ready to be occupied. The ceilings of cast iron and glass for the four principal stairways, are under con- tract. They cannot be put up until the next recess. All the staircases are so far completed as to be ready for use. Want of money has deferred the completion of the marble skirting and paneling of the upper flights of the four great stairways until another season. The action of Congress in restricting the expenditure painting and sculpture to the completion of the painting of rooms in the north wing partly done, to the com- pletion and payment for works of Crawford and Rogers already begun, and to such paintings and sculpture as shall have been approved, first, by a committee of three American artists, to be appointed by the President, and then by the Library Com- mittee of Congress, has prevented the commencement of any new w'orks. The painting of the President’s room in the north wing will be completed by the next meeting of Congress. The frescoed ceiling of the room designed as the library, now' appropriated as the Senate post office, the paintings in the ante-chamber of the Senate, and in the room of the Committee on Military Affairs, remain unfinished. The painted decoration of that portion of the corridors in the basement of the north wing, which has been commenced before the close of the last session, is nearly completed. No new w'ork of this kind has been undertaken. The statues of the pediment, designed by Thomas Crawford, whose loss is so deeply deplored by all interested in American art, have been completed in marble. The statue of America, the central figure of the pediment, has been placed upon a pedestal in the eastern park, being too large to be set up in the old hall of Represen- tatives, where the remainder of the statues have been arranged uj:>on a platform as nearly as possible in the relative positions which they are intended to occupy in the pediment of the eastern portico. Two more of the bronze railings of the private stairs of the House and Senate have been put in place during the recess. The fourth, which is intended for the western private stairway of the Senate, is not yet received. The temporary brick partition which, during the last session, obscured the light upon the railing first erected, has been removed, and the stair is now' much better lighted, and the unrivaled workmanship of these railings can be better appreciated. They are works which will do credit to the art of this country for centuries. I hear that the bronze doors, designed by Mr. Randolph Rogers, have been partly cast and chased, and I hope, in the course of the approaching session, to receive them in this city. Mr. Crawford having left the models of the two doors designed by him in an unfinished condition, Mrs. Crawford has requested authority to complete the models, with the aid of the master workmen of Mr. Crawford’s studio, still employed in completing his unfinished works. In such an undertaking she would have the willing assistance and advice of the best American artists in Italy. Her proposition has been referred to the department, but no decision lias, as yet, been communicated to me. The marble work of the year has been applied principally to completing the arcades under the porticos of the building, thus preparing the supports for the one hundred columns which are intended to adorn them. No columns have been received during the year. The advertisement in course of publication at the time of my last annual report was responded to by several parties. The bids for monolithic shafts ranged from $1,184 each to $3,282 each; or from $118,400 to $328,200, for the one hundred columns needed. The department finally decided not to accept any of these bids, but to give the original contractors six months more time in which to furnish a satisfactory speci- H. Rep. 646 47 738 Documentary History of the Capitol. men of American marble which they might propose to substitute for the Lee marble required by their contract, with evidence of the ability of the quarry they might select to furnish the column shafts within a reasonable time. This period of six months will terminate on the 1st January next. At the close of the last session of Congress, the House of Representatives adopted the following resolution: “Resolved, That the superintendent of the Capitol extension be directed, after the adjournment of the present session of Congress, to remove the desks from the hall of the House, and make such a rearrangement of the seats of members as to bring them within the smallest convenient space.” The special committee, to whom the consideration of this matter had been entrusted by the House, were of opinion that in making the change the seats should be fixed permanently, and that they should be arranged in the most compact manner con- sistent with accessibility and comfort. This required the seats to be made in the form of settees or sofas, standing on plat- forms narrower than those which supported the chairs and desks heretofore used. An almost entire reconstruction of the floor thus became necessary, involving con- siderable alteration in the flues for ventilating the space occupied by the members. New seats to accommodate the whole number of members have been constructed and placed upon the new floor. They are arranged in concentric circles, with aisles radiating from the Speaker’s desk. The arms and sujjports are of cast-iron, properly decorated ; the backs and frames of American oak. The seats and backs are uphol- stered, so as to be as comfortable as possible. The backs are made rather lower than usual, in order to enable those in front to turn partly around to attend, with as little discomfort as possible, to a speaker whose position may be in the back part of the hall. When the hall of Representatives is crowded, the supply of fresh air needed in order to keep the atmosphere of the room perfectly fresh and sweet is sometimes as great as 100,000 cubic feet or three and a half tons per minute — renewing the whole atmosphere of the apartment every five minutes. The introduction of this large quan- tity of air into a crowded assembly, without subjecting some portion of the audience to uncomfortable drafts, is very difficult, perhaps impossible. Many of the openings through which the air entered the room during the last session being necessarily closed up in rearranging the floor, I have substituted for these a series of registers in the floor, so arranged as to be under the control of the audience. Each of these bronze registers is furnished with a valve of small aperture, through which the air, entering horizontally, is diffused in a small cast-iron chamber below the floor, and then enters the room through a perforated bronze plate covered with wire gauze. The object of this is to diffuse the air over as large a space as possible, and thus to introduce a large quantity with a small velocity. If any member find the air of the hall uncomfortably close, opening the register at his feet will supply him with fresh air. Should he find too much entering in his immediate vicinity, he can shut it off. Some inconvenience was felt during the last session by members near the registers in the walls of the room from the currents of air. Deflectors have been attached to all these openings which cause the air thus introduced to take an upward direction, and thus prevent a direct current striking upon the persons near the walls. All the seats are now in place, the registers fixed, and the carpets are being laid down by the officers of the House of Representatives. Tables have been manufactured to be placed in the parts of the hall not occupied by the seats of members. At these tables the necessary writing of amendments and notes can go on without interfering with attention to the debates by those not thus occupied. In the Senate chamber, though the areas of the openings for the admission of air had been made very large, equivalent to 250 square feet of surface, which, when the The Extensions. 739 supply of air was as high as 30,000 cubic feet, or one ton per minute, would give an average velocity of air at the openings of only two feet per second, still the combina- tion of all the feeble currents produced a general movement of the stratum of air in contact with the floor, from all parts of the floor towards the Vice-President’s desk, which was sufficient to be felt as a draft, cooling unpleasantly the feet and legs. The openings in the risers of the steps have now been all closed, and their place is supplied by small circular registers in the floor under each desk, by which air can be introduced or shut off at each seat, at the pleasure of its occupant. Deflectors have been placed in front of the registers in the walls, which, as in the House of Representatives, gives an upward direction to the fresh air which enters through them. One difficulty to contend with in the heating and ventilation of both these legisla- tive halls arises from the difference in the clothing of the audience in the gallery and the senators and members on the floor. The temperature called for by the officers of the House as most comfortable for the members is seventy degrees, and this temperature is kept up throughout the whole room. The greatest variation, as shown by thermometers, placed in many different parts of the hall, both near the floor occupied by the members and against the wall above the galleries, is only three degrees Fahrenheit. By direction of the officers of the Senate the Senate chamber is kept at a tempera- ture two or three degrees lower, and the same uniformity of temperature is attained in the various parts of this hall. The rooms are intended for the use of Congress; senators and members spending many hours in them require the temperature which they would choose in their pri- vate rooms. They sit without hats or overcoats. The audience in the galleries is composed of persons who come in, after a brisk walk, coated, bonneted, and shawled, to resist an out-of-door winter temperature, and sitting only from a few minutes to an hour or two in the galleries, retain all these wrappings, and complain that they find the galleries, really kept at seventy degrees, intolerably warm. For this there is no remedy, except, when entering the galleries, to take off the overcoats, cloaks, and shawls fitted for the temperature of the outer air. In heating and ventilating the north wing, during the twelve months preceding the 1st October, 1859, 688 tons of anthracite coal were consumed. In the south wing, during the same period, 439 tons were used. The greatest consumption of coal in the south wing in any one day was five and one third tons, on the 3d of March. The fires on that day were kept up for twenty- four hours. The temperature of the outside air was thirty-nine degrees at noon. The least consumption was one quarter of a ton, which sufficed for ventilating and drying the building, on some hot days during the summer. The floors of the building, with the exception of one or two rooms, have all been laid with encaustic tiles, in patterns of great variety and beauty. They are from the establishment of Messrs. Minton, of Stoke-upon- Trent, and the regularity with which the work has been carried on does great credit to the manu- facturers and their agents in this country, Messrs. Miller and Coates, of New York. The whole quantity of these tiles thus far laid has been, in the north wing, 49,239 superficial feet, at a cost of $68,416.83; in the south wing, 46,567 superficial feet, at a cost of $62,620.36. During the year ending 30th September last, there were laid, in the north wing, 24,937 superficial feet; and in the south wing, 13,220 superficial feet. The last floor will probably be completed before the meeting of Congress. There have been received during the past year, 40,4071 cubic feet of Lee marble from the contractors, costing $76,822.83; 506 cubic feet Italian marble, costing $1,391.72, have been received during the year. The whole quantity of marble received at the building up to the 30t.h of Septem- ber, 1859, is: For exterior, Lee marble, 400,532J cubic feet, costing $697,559.47; for 740 Documentary History of the Capitol. interior, Lee marble, 15,409£ cubic feet, costing $28,716.31, and 22 columns, costing $4,400. Of Italian marble, there have been received 28,3014 cubic feet, costing $79,144.72; of Tennessee marble, 9,830 cubic feet, costing $66,021.97. 3,119 blocks of marble were set during the year. The amount paid for marble work during the past year is $190,398.95. The total amount paid for marble work to 30th September, 1859, is $1,206,628.17. 18,407,349 bricks and 42,940 barrels of cement have been used in the building. Of these, 222,575 bricks and 1,523 barrels of cement were received during the past year. * * * CASH ACCOUNT. Available, September 30, 1858 $343,276.78 Appropriated, March 3, 1859 400, 000. 00 743, 276. 78 Expended in the year ending September 30, 1859 649, 105. 11 Available September 30, 1859 $94, 171. 67 All of which will probably be expended by the 1st January next. Amount to be appropriated for the service of the year ending June 30, 1861 $500,000, All of which is respectfully submitted by your obedient servant, M. C. Meigs, Captain of Engineers in charge. Hon. John B. Floyd, Secretary of War. [Senate proceedings of Feb. 1, 1860: Congressional Globe, 36 — 1, p. 647.] Mr. Bright. I submit the following resolution: * * * Resolved, That the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds be instructed to inquire in the present state of the contracts and arrangements for completing the porticoes of the Capitol extension; whether it is possible to fulfill the present contracts for marble and for marble columns, and whether any additional legislation is necessary on this subject. * * * The resolutions, as amended, were adopted. [Senate Mis. Doc. No. 29, 36th Congress, 1st Session. Letter from the Superintendent of the Capitol Extension, to the Chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, in relation to the Dome and Porticos of the Capitol. March 5, 1860. — Motion to print referred to the Committee on Printing.] Office United States Capitol Extension and New Dome of the Capitol, Washington , February 29, I860. Sib: I have the honor, in answer to your letter of the 8th instant, received on the 13th instant, transmitting the resolutions of the United States Senate of the 1st instant, in relation to the Dome and Porticoes of the Capitol, to make the following statement: * * * Copies of all of the correspondence on file in this office, in relation to the column shafts of the Capitol Extension are herewith transmitted, marked C. The corre- spondence is voluminous, but the history of the whole question cannot be ascertained without it. It appears that on January 17, 1852, a contract was entered into between the United States and Rice, Baird & Heebner, of Philadelphia, for furnishing the marble of the exterior of the Capitol Extension from quarries near Lee, Massachusetts. In this contract it was specified that- the blocks of the column shafts were not to be less than four feet in height. The Extensions. 741 On February 20, 1854, Congress, by joint resolution, authorized a modification of this contract; and on March 30, 1854, in obedience to this law, a contract was entered into between the United States and Rice, Baird & Heebner, in which it was specified that the contractors should “deliver, for the one hundred columns of the exterior porticoes, as many monolithic shafts as their quarry may prove capable of furnishing, and the remainder of the whole number required in two blocks each, one of which to form two- thirds of the whole length of each shaft.” The contractors were to be paid “at the rate of fourteen hundred dollars for each monolithic column shaft for the exterior porticoes, and eleven hundred dollars for each shaft delivered in two pieces, as above specified.” These contracts are printed in House of Representatives Ex. Doc. No. 143, 34th Congress, 1st session, the first on page 103, and the second on page 114. Under these two contracts all of the marble hitherto used for the exterior of the Capitol extension has been delivered. As none of the column shafts were needed, none were delivered; but a correspondence commenced in 1857, between Captain M. C. Meigs, Superintendent of the Capitol Extension, and the contractors, on the subject. It soon appeared from this correspondence that the Lee quarries could not furnish the columns as they are required in the supplemental contract, and the con- tractors wished to fall back upon the original contract, which allowed them to furnish the columns in pieces not exceeding four feet in height, so far as the dimensions of the blocks are concerned, but were not willing to take the price which the original contract gave. This proposition is contained in a letter from the contractor to Cap- tain Meigs, dated November 4, 1857. Captain Meigs declined to consent to this arrangement, on the ground that the original contract was superseded, so far as the columns are concerned, by the supplemental one. On May 22, 1858, Mr. Heebner, one of the contractors, offered, as a member of the firm, or on his individual account, “to deliver the columns of Italian mar- ble, in all respects as specified in the contract of March 30, 1854.” Captain Meigs recommended the acceptance of this proposition. He was directed by the depart- ment to visit such quarries in the United States as were likely to be capable of fur- nishing the columns; made the visit, and, on September 18, 1858, reported, as the result of his inspection of the quarries, that it was his “opinion that the quickest and best mode of procuring the shafts for the porticoes is to accept the offer of Messrs. Rice, Baird & Heebner to deliver them in single blocks” of Italian marble, in accordance with the terms of their contract of March 30, 1854, as it was his belief that the Lee quarry could not furnish them. The department did not concur in this opinion; and Captain Meigs was directed to prepare an advertisement for proposals for delivering the columns in monoliths, and in blocks not exceeding four feet in height. An advertisement was accordingly issued, dated September 30, 1858, and on December 18, 1858, the bids were transmitted to the department for its action. The contractors, in a letter dated December 3, 1858, pro tested against the award of the contract to other parties while their contract remained in force. On March 29, 1859, Captain Meigs was directed by the department to take steps to determine whether the contractors were prepared to continue the supply of marble for the Capitol to the fulfillment of their contract. In an answer to the department, dated April 6, 1859, to which your attention is respectfully called, as it gives much information on the subject of the columns, he gives his views on the whole question, and suggests that he should be directed to visit the Lee quarry. He was accordingly directed to visit the quarry; made the visit, and on May 10, 1859, reported to the department that the contractors had no prospect of continuing the supply of marble to the fulfillment of their contract, so far as regards the column shafts. He further reported that they could not, in a reasonable time, supply from the Lee quarry the column shafts even in six pieces, and at the same time furnish the other large quantity of marble needed for the building. But he was of opinion that, if the column shafts could be obtained elsewhere, they would be able, in other respects, to 742 Documentary History of the Capitol. complete their contract, (which, hitherto, they had carried out energetically and ably, ) and refers the department to his letter of April 6, 1859. He refers to the offer of the contractors to furnish Italian marble instead of Lee marble, and to the decision of the department that American marble must be used to carry out the terms of the contracts. He also reports that he visited Mr. Conolly’s quarry, near Baltimore; states that is a strong and he believes a durable stone, but that- it does not come up to the requirements of the advertisement of September 30, 1858, in color and grain. He thought that the quarry was capable of furnishing one hundred monolithic shafts. He regrets that the stone is not of such beauty as to enable him to heartily recom- mend its adoption, and states that, if it is determined to use American marble, it is not probable that any better will be found, or any quarry that can furnish it so quickly. Upon this letter, the Secretary of War indorses that the contract with Messrs. Rice, Baird & Heebner, will be declared forfeited, and Captain Meigs will contract with Mr. Connolly for monolithic columns of his marble. This is dated May 11, 1859. On the same letter is an indorsement by the President of the United States, as follows: “Let the order of the Secretary of War, of the 11th instant, be suspended for further consideration until after his return from Virginia.” Dated May 19, 1859. On May 14, 1859, Captain Meigs informed the department that notice of the for- feiture of the contract had been given to the contractors, and asked upon what terms he should contract with Mr. Connolly, stating that he considered Mr. Connolly’s price too high, as given in his bid, made in compliance with the advertisement of September 30, 1858. On May 21, 1859, he was directed by the Acting Secretary of War to visit all of the quarries from which proposals for the monolithic shafts had been received, and to examine any other quarries which he thought might furnish them, “the object being to obtain the fullest information before deciding upon the questions relating to the supply of marble for the columns.” In obedience to this order, Captain Meigs visited seventeen quarries, and on the 22d of June last reported to the department. In this report he states that “enough is known, however, to show that it is possible to obtain from several American quarries monolithic shafts which can be used for the Capitol Extension, though inferior in beauty to the Italian.” He also states that he had received a letter from the contractors, in which they ask to be allowed to furnish the column shafts according to the terms of their contract, substituting marble from some other quarry or quarries for that of Lee, the marble to be furnished to be ajiproved by the officer in charge of the Capitol Extension. He advises that this proposition be accepted, and that six months be allowed them, within which they were to furnish a satisfactory specimen, with probable evidence that the quarry will supply one hundred monoliths, of quality equal to the approved specimen, and in a reasonable time. This recommendation was approved by the Secretary of War, and on the 30th of June last the contractors were notified of this approval, and that in accordance with it, six months from July 1, 1859, were allowed them within which they might fur- nish a satisfactory specimen of American marble, with probable evidence that the quarry will supply one hundred monolithic shafts of quality equal to that of the , approved specimens, and in a reasonable time. Tn accordance with this understanding, the contractors have deposited six speci- mens of marble in this office, from quarries which they state are capable of furnish- ing the monolithic columns. The specimens have been examined, and were reported upon from this office on January 7 last. The contractors, in a letter dated January 5 last, state that the shortest time required to obtain the monoliths from the quarries named, is from four to six years, and that required to obtain them from the quarry which furnishes what I consider the best specimen, is from five to seven years. These times are too great; and if the estimate of the contractor is correct — and I believe it to be so — it is apparent that the Capitol Extension cannot be completed for The Extensions. 743 eight or nine years. If the contractors are permitted to procure the marble where they please — that is, if they are allowed to get them from Italy, should they choose that course as the most conducive to their own interests — they can furnish them in eight- een months, and the building can be completed in three years. But as the contract under which they are now acting has been decided by the proper authority to call for American marble, further legislation will be required. The desirability of the near completion of the Capitol Extension requires no dis- cussion; it is too apparent to admit of a doubt. The economy of bringing the work to a close as soon as possible is nearly as apparent, for the large contingent expenses of a work of such magnitude cannot be materially diminished until it is completed. These expenses amount to nearly sixteen thousand dollars per annum; and I believe that the cost of the building will be increased at least $100,000 if the time required to procure the columns is to be from five to seven years instead of eighteen months. If Congress should legislate on this subject, it would, I respectfully submit, be advisable to appropriate in the same law the amount necessary to pay for the columns. This amount is $140,000. The appropriation would not increase the cost of the build- ing; it could not be touched to pay for anything but the columns; and it would enable the contractors to give their orders for all of the columns at once, as they would be certain that they would be paid for them on their delivery. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. B. Franklin, Captain of Topographical Engineers, In charge of Capitol Extension and New Dome of Capitol. Hon. J. D. Bright, Chairman Com. on Public Buildings and Grounds, U. S. Senate. * * * Appendix C. — Correspondence in relation to the column shafts of the Capitol Extension. * * * [84 pages. ] [Senate proceedings of Mar. 9, 1860: Congressional Globe, 36 — 1, p. 1086.] CONTRACTS FOR MARBLE. Mr. Bigler submitted the following resolution; which was considered by unanimous consent, and agreed to: Resolved , That the President of the United States be requested to communicate to the Senate, if in his judgment not incompatible with the public interest, the letter of J. F. Conolly to the Secretary of of War, dated on or about the 26th January, 1860, in relation to his offer for marble columns for the porticoes of the Capitol extension; also all orders or instructions, and action of the Secretary of War and of the superintendent of the Capitol extension; and also any communication that may have been made by the contractors in relation to said columns, or to the contracts or bids therefor, not already communicated to the Senate. [In compliance with the above President James Buchanan transmitted, Mar. 16, 1860, correspondence and information in relation to the marble columns for the Capitol Extension: 36 — 1, Senate Ex. Doc. No. 22. See also 36 — 1, House Rept. No. 566, presented by Mr. Anderson, May 24, 1860, and minority report, same num- ber, by Mr. Larabee, June 8, 1860, in relation to the contractors, Messrs. Rice, Baird & Heebner.] [House of Representatives. Ex. Doc. No. 43. 36th Congress, 1st session. Art Commission. Letter of the Secretary of War, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the House, the report of the Art Commission. March 9, I860.— Laid upon the table, and ordered to be printed.] War Department, March 7, 1860. Sir: I have received from the Secretary of the Interior the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 2d instant, calling upon that officer to communicate “the report of the art commissioners, and the accompanying documents, made to 744 Documentary History of the Capitol. the President of the United States;” and, in compliance with the request contained in that resolution, I have the honor to transmit herewith a copy of the paper referred to. No documents accompanied the report. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, John B. Floyd, Secretary of War. Hon. William Pennington, Speaker of the House of Representatives. REPORT op united states art commission. Office op United States Art Commission, Washington, February 22, 1860. Sir: The United States art commission, authorized by acts of Congress of June 12, 1858, and March 3, 1859, and appointed by the President May 15, 1859, met and organized the 15th of June following, and subsequently made their preparatory sur- vey of the public buildings and grounds at the seat of government, for the purpose of maturing a general plan of action for carrying out the work intrusted to their charge. For the furtherance of this object they beg leave to submit the following report upon the system of decoration heretofore adopted in those buildings, and to recommend such plan for their future art decoration and embellishment as will, in their opinion, best secure a harmonious result. The erection of a great national capitol seldom occurs but once in the life of a nation. The opportunity such an event affords is an important one for the expres- sion of patriotic devotion, and the perpetuation, through the arts of painting and sculpture, of that which is high and noble and held in reverence by the people; and it becomes them, as patriots, to see to it that no taint of falsity is suffered to be transmitted to the future upon the escutcheon of our national honor in its artistic record. A theme so noble and worthy should interest the heart of the whole country, and whether pati'iot, statesman, or artist, one impulse should govern the whole in dedicating these buildings and grounds to the national honor. It is presumed to be the wish of government not only to decorate their present buildings in the best possible manner, but to use the opportunity which the occasion affords to protect and develop national art. If there is to be any discrimination between native and foreign artists, the preference should be given to citizens. And our national history, in its application to the decoration of the public buildings, should take precedence of all other subjects. If this assumption be correct, the money expended by government for the last five or six years for this purpose has been misapplied, with the exception of com- missions like those awarded to Crawford and Rogers; for we find but little else which relates to our history, or in which the American mind will ever be interested. The arts afford a strong bond of national sympathy, and when they shall have fulfilled their mission here by giving expression to subjects of national interest, in which the several States shall have been represented, it will be a crowning triumph of our civilization. Art, like nations, has its heroic history, its refined and manly history, its effemi- nate and sensuous history — the sure presage of national decay. Our art is just entering upon the first of these planes. Shall we allow it to be supplanted here in its young life by that of an effete and decayed race which in no way represents us? Our pride should revolt at the very idea. We should not forget so soon the homely manners and tastes of our ancestors, and the hardships they endured with undaunted hearts; but it should be our pride to welcome their venerated forms in these build- ings and grounds, and surround them with the insignia of a nation’s love and homage; and patriotic hearts should perform the noble work. The Extensions. 745 It is not enough that the artist select an American subject for his work. He must also be imbued with a high sense of the nature of the institutions of the country, and should have a certain assimilation with its habits and manners. He should be baptized, as it were, in the spirit of its nationality, or his labor, however well per- formed in an academic sense, will fail to meet a response from those for whom he toils. The Etruscan art is mainly interesting to us as a historic record of an other- wise lost nation; and the beautiful art of the Greeks derives its chief value from its nationality; and that of the Egyptians for a similar reason. It requires but little discrimination to perceive that were the arts of these different nations intermingled, they would lose their chief value — their individuality. Are our portrait statues, in which the Greek or Roman costume has been substi- tuted for that worn by the individuals represented, satisfactory? Do they not rather convey a feeling of shame for the paucity of invention on the part of the artist, and an acknowledgment that we have sought refuge in stuffs and draperies to conceal our want of power in the expression of character? We want nothing thrown in between us and the facts of our history to estrange us from it. We want to be brought near it, to realize it as an existence, not as a myth. True genius presents us no night- mares, no vagaries; but is clear-seeing, and by its subtleness of perception and power of expression renders truth palpable to duller senses. We are shown in the Capitol a room in the style of the “Loggia of Raphael;” another in that of Pompeii; a third after the manner of the Baths of Titus; and even in the rooms where American subjects have been attempted, they are so foreign in treatment, so overlaid and subordinated by symbols and impertinent ornaments, that we hardly recognize them. Our chief delight in this survey is in a few nicely painted animals and American birds and plants, in some of the lower halls; and even here one familiar with foreign art sees constantly intermingled the misapplied symbols of a past mythology, but wanting in the exquisite execution and signifi- cance of the originals. In preparing a plan for the decoration of the Capitol, the commissioners do not recommend its immediate completion, or that its accomplishment should be hastened; for this would not only be injustice to those who come after us, but would necessitate the employment of talents which require thorough training for this par- ticular work. The execution of these decorations must necessarily extend over a long space of time, and he subject to the will of Congress from year to year. It is, therefore, of the first importance to establish a system which can be pursued delib- erately as the buildings may advance toward completion, and thus secure a harmony and adaption where otherwise confusion would be the inevitable result. The elab- oration of such a system will require great care, study, and consultation, and could not well be embraced within the limits of this report. We therefore suggest it in general terms. The rotunda, taken as a point of departure, claims the first attention in laying down this system. In the dome there will be large spaces for the introduction of pictures, which may be devoted to subjects immediately relating to the discovery of the country — the Embarkation and Landing of Columbus, and the subsequent dis- coveries of Ponce de Leon and De Soto. Under the great cornice which surrounds the rotunda, there is in the plan of the architect a frieze in bas-relief, which may embrace the idea of Freedom, civil and religious. In the rotunda, below this frieze, may With propriety be represented the colonial history of the country, followed by that of the revolution; and from the rotunda towards the halls of the Senate and the House of Representatives, such other succes- sive epochs of our history as would enable a person with ordinary intelligence to read it consecutively. Next in order comes the legislative history of the nation and the several States, which may properly be represented in the halls of Congress, and it would doubtless add greatly to the dignity of those halls to introduce on either side of the desk of Documentary History of the Capitol. 746 the Vice President an appropriate statue or bust, for example, of the first Vice Pres- idents, Adams and Jefferson; and on either side of the desk of the Speaker of the House a similar one of an eminent member of that body during the administration of Washington; for example, James Madison and Fisher Ames. It is the opinion of the commissioners that far greater sobriety should be given to these halls in their general effect to render them less distracting to the eye. Few are aware how disturbing to thought the display of gaudy, inharmonious color can be made. Hence its adoption for military uses — as in showy uniforms, painted banners, bright plumes, and scarlet coats — for dramatic and scenic effects, and for all purposes where it is desired to address the senses instead of the intellect. This very quality renders it unsuited to the halls of deliberation, where calm thought and unimpassioned reason are supposed to preside. Great richness of effect may be obtained, and is, perhaps, only to be obtained, by a true sense of the sub- ordination of inferior parts. It is believed that this criticism will hold true in regard to all efforts of the mind. It is always observable in nature, and underlies her universal laws. Color is subject to these laws as well as everything in nature. Bright colors are sparingly distributed throughout the natural world. The white, red, blue, and yellow blossoms of plants, shrubs, and trees are not over prominent even in their season of bloom; while the main masses are made up of cool greens, grays, drabs and browns intermingled, and are always harmonious and agreeable. In regard to the four great stairways, it is not thought advisable to recommend their permanent decoration at this time, but merely to paint them in simple colors. None but pictures of the highest order should be admitted to places of such promi- nence. To acquire these, not only time, but the utmost care and deliberation are requisite. There can be no doubt of the ability of our artists to perform this work, but time should be given them for preparation, both in fresco and in oil. Heretofore they have been engaged, with few exceptions, on easel pictures, and it is impossible at once for them to adopt the style required in works of such magnitude. It is said that Horace Vernet. has been offered one of these spaces to fill; and it is readily conceded how valuable would be the acquisition of a work from such a master for a national gallery or the Executive Mansion. But there is no evidence of his acceptance of the commission, whether from the pressure of other engagements, or from the probable conviction that every foreigner who respects his art and his own reputation must feel his incompetency to paint the history of any country but his own. Vernet’s studies have been from French life and manners, and his works consequently, are thoroughly imbued with his nationality, which constitutes in fact one of their great merits. It is morally impossible that he should wholly adapt his style or form of expression to ours. The expediency therefore, of inviting even the most distin- guished foreign artist to paint on the walls of the Capitol may well be questioned. The British government requires that a foreigner shall have resided at least ten years in the country before he shall even be allowed to compete for any government work. Experience has taught them the necessity of adopting this rule, and it is deemed proper that we should profit by their experience rather than purchase it for ourselves. The rooms formerly occupied by the Senate have been assigned to the Supreme Court, and may appropriately be decorated with subjects relating to the judicial his- tory of the country. Subjects connected with valuable discoveries and inventions are well adapted for the decoration of the long corridors leading from the rotunda to the halls of legislation. The lobbies of the Senate and the House of Representatives afford ample space for portraying incidents in pioneer life, and other scenes, illus- trating the manners and habits of different sections of the country. The various committee rooms of both houses will, from the purpose to which they are severally applied, naturally suggest their mode of decoration. All passages which, from their situation, cannot be well lighted should be painted simply in flat colors, with such slight ornaments as will render them light and cheerful ; The Extensions. 747 more than this would be inappropriate. Color should be so arranged as not to add to their obscurity, as in the present instance. In all places where stucco ornaments are exposed to constant mutilation, it is deemed useless to waste money in painting n any other than the simplest modes, as works of art would very soon be rendered worthless and unsightly in situations where every little breakage or abrasion would expose the plaster underneath. And the commissioners notice with some surprise that no provision has been made for the protection of the numerous plaster angles which occur throughout the halls and lobbies of both wings of the Capitol extension. This oversight is the more extraordinary when they find expensive painting and gilding, as in some of the lower halls and in the- ante-room of the Senate, where multilations have already taken place. Ornamentation in stucco is not properly employed where permanence is desirable. Its meritricious character renders it better suited to temporary purposes, where the employment of wood or bronze would be too expensive. Throughout the building there is a redundancy of orna- mentation, cheap and showy in some instances, and employed where ornament is not required; like the breaking up of large spaces into small ones, thus destroying the very repose which the eye instinctively seeks. There are other instances equally incongruous, where expensive bronze ornaments are fastened upon wooden doorways and jambs, much to their detriment. If it were desirable to enrich the doorways leading to the galleries of the Senate and the House, it should be done by carving the ornaments in the same material of which the doors are made; thus forming a part of them, instead of their being detached and fastened on afterwards. This would have secured harmony. The bronze employed in the present instance, when seen at the distance of a few yards, upon a light ground, has the effect of so many unintelligible dark spots, incapable of light and shade in them- selves, and consequently disturbing the general unity of the halls. Carving in wood is a legitimate mode of ornamentation, and is capable of being rendered rich and effective. Bronze and marble are no less so when properly applied; but castings from natural objects can never subserve this purpose, because they must always be brought in contact with modelled or mechanically wrought surfaces, with which, however beautiful in themselves, they have no affinity or relation. This is a principle in taste long since established, and a departure from it is an acknowledgment of an inability to fulfil, or an ingnorance of the legitimate requirements of art. The commissioners feel no ordinary pleasure in referring to the works of Crawford and Rogers; for in them they recognize a nationality and a suitability to the purposes for which they were designed. The government is fortunate in the possession of so many of the works of the former of these artists, since it has pleased an All-wise Providence to arrest his brilliant career so early in life. It is gratifying to learn that a safe and permanent location has been provided for his models of the pediment, under the government. This act was due alike to art and his memory; for the models are the only real works of his hands in their possession, and as such will be objects of national interest, and may become a nucleus for a future school of art under the national patronage. It having been determined to fill the pediments of the eastern porticos with statues, and the statues for one of them having already been executed here in marble, under the direction of the former superintendent, it would be proper to recommend an appropriation for the remaining pediment at any time; but as the progress of the building does not render it important at present, it is deemed advisable to defer it to another year. In connexion with this subject, however, the commissioners feel con- strained to add that had it not have been decided to fill these pediments with statues they would have recommended alto-relievi for that purpose. Statues must always convey an idea of detachment, as something superadded; while alto-relievi form a part of the building, and consequently admit of a treatment more in harmony with it. Various grades of relief are proper in the same work, adding thereby great richness and variety of effect. There are instances, it is true, in which statues 748 Documentary History of the Capitol. have been employed to fill pediments, as in the case of the Parthenon, whose porti- cos were supported by massive Doric columns; but in cases where the Corinthian order has been adopted, as in the United States Capitol extension, alto-relievi have almost universally been employed, and for reasons obvious to the intelligent observer. Before leaving the subject of government requirements in respect to art, the com- missioners feel constrained to suggest that in no department in which it has been employed is there a greater apparent deficiency than in that of the government coin- age and die-sinking. In all that pertains to its mechanical execution our coinage will compare favorably with that of any nation. Our great deficiency is in an artistic sense, and we should evince an unconsciousness of the requirements of our position did we neglect to exjrress the views of the artists of the nation on this subject, whom we represent. The coins of nations have for many centuries been designed and have served to represent the theory and purpose of the life of such nations through the images and inscriptions with which they were embellished. This usage, as is well known, origi- nated and corresponds with that of chiefs and rulers in respect to their seals or sig- nets and arms of state. The embellishments of coins of sovereignties being but duplications of their arms, “which sovereign States do constantly bear,” should not only be designed in significant conformity to the meaning of such arms, but in the spirit and form of the highest art. Otherwise these symbols of national characteristics lose their chief significance. Our coinage is essentially inferior to that of France, Russia, or Great Britain, in this respect. The commissioners are aware that govern- ment has expended considerable amounts in procuring designs and models, but unfortunately the skill of competent artists has not been called into requisition. It seems absurd to boast of distinguished artists and not to employ their talents in every department pertaining to their professions which the government may require. The commissioners feel it to be important that there should be harmony in the spirit and form in all departments of our national art, as a basis of all future developments in that direction. Art as employed in mere decoration has but little national impor- tance, but as an expression of thought and intention it ranks with the highest efforts of the mind. In expenditures of money for works of art it is important as a wise measure of economy that productions of sufficient merit should be secured to render their future removal or obliteration unnecessary. It is true that governments as well as indi- viduals must purchase their experience in these as in all other matters; but it would seem that the system heretofore pursued in this particular, from its inadequacy to meet the requirements of the age and its falsity as an expression of our artistic devel- opment, had been already indulged in with sufficient liberality. Nations have been proud of noble works of art, and even when their power and splendor in other respects have departed, art has stood forth to remind them of their former greatness. For us to flaunt in the borrowed and fragmentary arts of another country, is like the Indian who abandons his native wild dignity and forest dress, and struts through the streets of a city in a cast-off military uniform. It is believed that the true method of procuring designs for statuary and paintings, as a general principle, is to invite liberal competition, with such regulations as shall secure to every artist an impartial and unbiassed adjudication of his work; but the well-known repugnance of artists of the first rank, 'who have achieved a national reputation, to compete with each other, would render this a doubtful policy to pur- sue with them. It is therefore deemed but respectful and proper to award to such artists commissions for works for which their talents and acquirements have fitted them. The commissioners are sustained in this position by the experience and practice of all nations in similar cases. In the erection of statues, monuments, and fountains in the public grounds, the same system of subordination should be observed which is contemplated in the dis- tribution of works of art in the public buildings. They should be arranged, so far The Extensions. 749 as practicable, in harmony with the plan of the grounds. But, as the more impor- tant of these parks are yet to be planned, a mere suggestion in regard to them will be sufficient for the present. When Congress shall have made appropriations for their final arrangement and completion, landscape gardeners should be invited to submit designs for that purpose. As the two halls of Congress and other portions of the building are now ready for the reception of works of art, the commissioners recommend the commencement of their decoration. For this purpose an appropriation will be necessary; the estimate for which will be found in a note appended to this report. The commissioners finding their functions and powers not sufficiently defined by the acts of Congress of 1858 and 1859, to enable them to perform the duties contem- plated in their appointment, would respectfully urge upon the attention of Congress the necessity of such further legislation as shall render the commission efficient and useful to the government; which they believe can best be effected by clothing them with the authority recommended by the artists of the United States, in the following extract from their memorial to Congress in 1858: “Your memorialists respectfully urge that the great end proposed, viz: ‘the advancement of art in the United States,’ may be most surely and completely attained by the establishment of an art commis- sion, composed of those designated by the united voice of American artists as com- petent to the office; who shall be accepted as the exponents of the authority and influence of American art; who shall be the channels for the distribution of all appropriations to be made by Congress for art purposes, and who shall secure to artists an intelligent and unbiased adjudication upon the designs they may present for the embellishment of the national buildings.” Henry K. Brown. James B. Lambdin. John F. Kensett. The President, of the United States. Note. — Estimates of appropriations required to carry out the recommendation of the fore- going report. For eight pictures to fill four panels in each of the halls of Congress 840, 000 For four statutes for Senate retiring room 20, 000 For two statutes for eastern front door of south wing 5, 400 For two colossal busts for Senate chamber 3, 000 For two statutes for House of Representatives 10, 000 For painting Speaker’s room 2, 000 For painting private stairways and passages behind Speaker’s chair 7, 500 For painting room east of Speaker’s room 2, 000 For painting Post Office, south wing 4, 000 For modelling valves for two eastern doorways 12, 000 For casting and chasing the same in bronze, (original estimate) 16, 000 For commencing the decoration of lobbies and halls of both wings of Capi- tol extension and designs for the same 20, 000 For casting statue of Freedom for new dome • 15, 000 For painting ante-room of Senate 10, 000 166, 900 [Senate proceedings of Mar. 19, 1860: Congressional Globe, 36 — 1, p. 1219.] ALTERATION OF THE SENATE CHAMBER. Mr. Hale. I have a resolution of inquiry, which I offer and ask for its immediate consideration : Resolved, That the architect of the Capitol extension be instructed to report to the Senate on the practicability and expense of so altering and reconstructing the present room occupied by the Senate, that it may be extended to the windows on the north end, or east or west side of the north wing of the Capitol. 750 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Mason. As I understand the resolution, it does not leave it to the committee to inquire into the expediency of the proposed alteration. Mr. Hale. It is an instruction to the architect simply to report on the practicability and expense. Mr. Davis. Let the resolution be read again. The Secretary read the resolution. Mr. Davis. I hope the resolution will not be adopted. I do not wish to object to its consideration; hut I hope it will not be be adopted at all for two reasons. First, there is a superintendent in charge of the work, who, if he knows anything, must be a better constructor than the architect. Mr. Hale. Well, I am willing that he should take it. Mr. Davis. The next objection is, we have a Committee on Public Buildings- and Grounds, to whom such an inquiry ought to be referred if it is one that ought to be made. Mr. Hale. Does the Senator object to the consideration of the resolution? Mr. Davis. No. Mr. Hale. I simply want to get the plan, to see if it is practicable, and also an estimate of the expense. When we have that statement, I shall move to refer it to the Committee on Public Buildings; but I want the plan first. Mr. Davis. I move, as a matter of respect to the officer in charge of the work, that the inquiry be made by the superintendent in charge of the extension, and not by the architect. The amendment was agreed to; and the resolution, as amended, was adopted. [Senate. Mis. Doc. No. 50. 36th Congress, 1st Session. Report of Captain W. B. Franklin, in charge of the Capitol Extension, made in compliance with a resolution of the Senate on the feasibility and expense of moving the Senate Chamber from its present position, so that it will take in the windows on the north end, or east or west sides of the Capitol. April 9, 1860. — Read and ordered to lie on the table.] Office U. S. Capitol Extension, Washington, April 9, 1860. Sir : I have the honor to submit the following report and estimates, in obedience to the resolution of the Senate of the 19th ultimo. The resolution contemplates a report upon the feasibility and expense of moving the Senate Chamber from its present position, so that it will take in the windows on the north end, or east or west sides of the Capitol. 1. Removal to the east side. This side is the main front of the north wing. It contains the main vestibule, and, were the Senate Chamber to be moved to this side, the main entrance and vestibule would have to be closed, as part of the vestibule would have to be included in the Chamber. It would be destructive to the use of this front to carry out this plan, and the front would either have to be abandoned as an entrance or a new one would have to be designed. I do not think it would be feasible to make this move, unless the front of the Capitol were completely reversed. 2. Removal to the north end. This alteration can be made by moving the Chamber through the north corridor behind the President’s seat, and by throwing this corridor, the retiring-room, and the President’s and Vice-President’s rooms into the floor of the Senate. I take it for granted, in making this report, that the area and cloak room arrange- ments of the present Chamber are satisfactory; and, in studying this change, an arrangement as near like that now existing as is possible was contemplated, taking in the north windows, or making the north wall of the Capitol the north end of the Senate Chamber. The windows of the principal story will then be on the Senate floor, and those of the third story on the gallery floor. The Extensions. 751 To make the change, it will be necessary to take down the north wall of the Chamber. This wall extends to the roof, and forms one of its supports, on account of which fact the roof will have to be taken down and rebuilt. The walls separating the President’s retiring and Vice-President’s rooms must be taken down. A new east and west corridor must he made, which will extend from one principal stairway to the other, and which will be partially lighted by the two skylights of those stairways. The corridor in the south end of the wing will be closed and turned into four rooms, which must answer the purposes of those taken into the Chamber under the new arrangement; or the rooms on the west, now used as offices of the Senate, can be made the President’s, Vice-President’s, and retiring rooms. These details, however, are merely indicated to show that certain alterations, in addition to the mere change of position of the Chamber, will have to be made, and not for the purpose of settling a design. The heating and ventilating apparatus must be altered to meet the requirements of the new position and exposure of the Chamber, and a large part of the attic story must be taken down and rebuilt. Certain alterations in the interior of the basement must be made on account of the new position of the south wall of the Chamber, which, of course, was not contemplated in the design which has been carried out. A radical change will have to be made in the basement arches which are under the Senate Chamber. In fact, the entire demolition and reconstruction of at least one half of the interior of the north wing must be made if the Chamber be removed to the north end. Careful estimates have been made of the cost of the alteration, predicated upon the presumption that the iron work about the galleries and ceiling can be used in the altered Chamber. The amount required is $165,000. In this estimate nothing is put down for ornamenting the walls or ceilings. A plan and vertical section of the north wing have been made, showing the arrangement of the building if the Chamber be moved as above indicated. They are transmitted with this report. 3. Removal to the west side. A plan, showing the position of the Chamber removed to the west side, is also transmitted. The horizontal dimensions of the Chamber now in use, excluding the galleries, are eighty-four feet by fifty-one feet. Those of the Chamber, as designed for the west side, are sixty-six and a half feet by forty-one feet; but the spaces under the galleries are open, so that the actual area of the floor will be but little smaller than that of the existing Chamber. The small dimensions are given in order to save the retiring- room of the Senate, which is highly ornamented with polished marble, and is a very beautiful and costly work. It will be seen that in this arrangement a part of the interior of the building will be difficult to light, and, under the best dispositions that can be made, will be inconvenient and uncomfortable. But this design has the advantages of giving win- dows on two sides of the Hall, and, as had been remarked above, it saves one very beautiful room. The cost of the removal to the west side will be $200,000. In the vertical section referred to, the details of the construction of the roof are not given; the truss is only sketched. The roof will be a difficult piece of work, and the truss is only put in to finish the drawing, not to settle its design. In conclusion, I have the honor to report, that it is practicable to so alter and reconstruct the present room occupied by the Senate; that it may be extended to the windows on the north end, or west side of the north wing of the Capitol, and 752 Documentary History of the Capitol. that the expense of the extension to the north end will be $165,000, and that of the extension to the west side will be $200,000. The time required, in both cases, will be two years from the date of commencement of the work. It is practicable, also, to place the Chamber on the east side of the north wing, but placing it there would involve nearly the reconstruction of the building. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. B. Franklin, Capl. Top. Eng's, in charge U. S. Capitol Extension. Hon. John C. Breckinridge, Vice President of the United States, and President of the Senate. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 22, 1860: Congressional Globe, 36—1, p. 1290.] Mr. Bright, in pursuance of previous notice, asked and obtained leave to intioduce a bill (S. No. 304) for the prosecution of the work upon the extension of the United States Capitol; which was read twice by its title, and ordered to be printed. [House proceedings of May 24, 1860: Congressional Globe, 36 — 1, p. 2327.] The House having under consideration the amendments to the Sundry Civil bill for 1861, reported from the Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union — Ninth amendment : From the clause “For United States Capitol extension, 8500,000,” strike out “five” and insert “two,” and add thereto the following proviso: Provided, That no part of the sum shall be applied to paintings or statuary. Mr. Sherman. I yesterday submitted a motion to strike out the whole clause, and I suppose that motion should be put first. The Speaker. The Chair thinks it is proper to perfect the clause before the motion to strike out is put. Mr. Florence. All friends to the protection of American industry ought to keep the clause in. The amendment was agreed to. The question being put upon the amendment of Mr. Sherman, to strike out the whole clause as amended, it was agreed to. [Senate proceedings of June 11, 1860: Congressional Globe, 36 — 1, p. 2820.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1861 — Mr. Toombs. I have one or two amendments that are not printed, which I am instructed by the committee to offer. I move to add as an additional section: Sec. — . And be it further enacted, That all existing laws creating an art commission be, and the same are hereby, repealed. Not having made any appropriation for continuing the building, the committee deemed the commission unnecessary, and we concluded that the act authorizing it ought to be repealed. Mr. Davis. I wish to amend the amendment by adding thereto, “ and the architect of the Capitol extension.” Air. Toombs. I do not know about that. My amendment is from the committee. Mr. Davis. I offer an amendment to the amendment, to include the architect. The Presiding Officer. The Chair will put the question on the amendment. Mr. Grimes. That was not read at the Secretary’s desk. It may be expedient to transact business rapidly; but it seems tome, an amendment ought at least to be read atthedesk. Mr. Toombs. Let it be read. The Secretary read it. The Presiding Officer. The Senator from Mississippi offers an amendment to this amendment. Mr. Davis. To add the words “or providing for the appointment of architect to the Capitol extension.” Mr. Toombs. The question in reference to the architect has not been under the consideration of the committee, and it stands on its own individual merits. I do not know what use there is for him. The Extensions. 753 Mr. Davis. The drawings are already made, and as there is no appropriation for the building, of course there is no use for him. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment to the amendment. Mr. Fessenden. What is it? Mr. Toombs. Dispensing with the architect to the Capitol. The Presiding Officer. The amendment will again be read with the amendment proposed to it. The Secretary read the amendment to the amendment: to insert after the word “commission,” the words, “or providing for an architect of the Capitol extension;” so that the amendment, if thus amended, will read: Sec . — And be it further enacted, That all existing laws creating an art commission, or providing for an architect to the Capitol extension, be, and the same are hereby, repealed. Mr. Clark. I hope the amendment to the amendment will not be adopted. 1 understand it will take now some three years to carry out the finishing of this Capi- tol, to complete it; and it is to be done in accordance with the plans, I suppose, that have alread} r been furnished by the architect. If this law is repealed and his appointment revoked, I do not know what is to be done in finishing the Capitol. I hope it will not be repealed. Mr. Davis. The explanation of the amendment is, that after the appointment of the late superintendent, Captain Meigs, the architect, became, in fact, a draughtsman. He made plans under Captain Meigs, who was both constructor and architect in fact, though he never took the name. The drawings have now been completed, and as the present architect failed utterly as a constructor, as was shown by the report of the committee, when he was in charge of the construction, I do not see what duties he can have to perform, except to draw his salary. I look upon it, therefore, as a useless expense. The plans are complete. Construction is what remains to be done, not designs. Mr. Clark. I do not desire to go into the quarrel between Captain Meigs and the architect. I leave that entirely outside. I understand Captain Meigs is not now in superintendence of the extension of the Capitol, but another person is. Mr. Toombs. Captain Franklin. Mr. Clark. Captain Franklin is, I understand. So far as the Senator’s assertion, that the plans are furnished, is concerned, I think he is mistaken. I think the plans are not all furnished. The architect is furnishing them still. Mr. Davis. Plans for what? Mr. Clark. For the erection of the Capitol. I simply wish to make this further state- ment, Mr. President. It is always usual, I believe, that the architect should have his plans carried out under hisown superintendence. Supposing it to be true that the archi- tect has furnished the plans, if he Were discharged now, those plans would be left to be carried out by a comparative stranger, or by some one who could not confer with him, and have his views and directions in regard to them. I desire to see this Capitol com- pleted as it has been begun. I desire to see it become an honortothenation, and hope the architect will be continued for the present at least, if not to the completion of the work. Mr. Davis. The argument of the Senator would go very well to wards the restoration of one of themost valuable officers the Government has, the late superintendent of the work, Captain Meigs, who modified the work in its essential respect, controlled it as long as he was superintendent — for about four years — to whom we owe whatever there is very valu- able in the design. So far as it was changed from that design which was submitted by theCommitteeon Public Buildings when the original plan was adopted for the extension of the Capitol, the Senator is quite in errorin his assignmentof theoffice. His argument nominemutatur would be very applicable to Captain Meigs. It is applicable to nobody else. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment of the Senator from Mississippi to the amendment. Mr. Fessenden. I call for the yeas and nays upon it. The yeas and nays were ordered. Mr. King. I ask that the amendment be again read. Mr. Grimes. I should like to hear some assignment of reason as to why the origi- nal amendment is proposed. Why is it proposed to repeal the act establishing this art commission? H. Rep. 646 48 754 Documentary History of the Capitol. The Presiding Officer. Thereadingof the amendment is called for again, together with the amendment proposed by the Senator from Mississippi; and they will be read. The Secretary again read them. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment to the amendment, on which the yeas and nays have been ordered. Mr. Grimes. 1 solicited some explanation from the Senator who offered the origi- nal amendment as to the reason why it was proposed to repeal this art commission. Mr. Toombs. We are not on that, matter now. We are acting on the amendment to the amendment. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment to the amendment pro- posed by the Senator from Mississippi. Mr. Iverson. I understand the object of the amendment is to do away with the services of the architect. Is that, the object of the amendment? Mr. Toombs. Yes, sir. Mr. Iverson. I hope it will be adopted. I agree with the Senator from Mississippi that there is now no further use for the office. It may have been useful heretofore; but the designs are all completed; in fact the Capitol is nearly finished anyhow, and the building can be done just as well by Captain Franklin, who is an engineer and architect, himself; probably as well able to make out these designs as Mr. Walter is. The whole work can be done by him, and the expense of $3,500 salary given to this gentleman can be saved by the Government. There is no use for it. If it is con- tinued, it is a mere sinecure. I think Mr. Walter has made enough out of the Gov- ernment. He has been here for seven years. He came here poor, and is now rich. He lives in a palace, and I think has had enough out of the Government., and ought not to be continued longer drawing the pay of $3,500 for staying about, the Capitol and doing little or nothing. I trust the amendment will prevail. Mr. Doolittle. I have heard of there being a rule in the Senate, and, I think, a very appropriate one, not to put general legislation on appropriation bills. The dis- cussion of this question is to open a controversy that has been raging in Washington, I have lately ascertained, for about ten years — a controversy between the Senator from Mississippi and Captain Meigs, and Mr. Walter and the Secretary of War, and others, in relation to this subject, of which, I confess, I am not myself very well advised, but about which I am beginning to learn a little, because I have been lately placed on the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. Mr. Davis. I wish you would state any controversy I had with anybody about it. It is new to me. Mr. Doolittle. I do not mean a personal controversy, but that Captain Meigs has been sustained, as I understand, in the views he has taken, by the Senator from Mississippi, in all his dealings in relation to the Capitol. Mr. Davis. Company. Mr. Dolittle. And I am informed — of course I will not undertake to speak from personal knowledge — that Mr. Walter is sustained by the present Secretary of War, and there is a misunderstanding. I do not, profess to understand it. It is all a new business to me; but I am beginning to get my eyes open to understand that there has been a difficulty and a dispute pending here for a long time. Now, Mr. Presi- dent, my opinion is that we should not bring up this matter and have it discussed upon this appropriation bill. I understand that the foundation on which this prop- osition was first offered was that there w r as no appropriation to continue the extension of the Capitol. When I first rose, the honorable Senator from Indiana, [Mr. Bright,] the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, was not in his seat, or perhaps I should not have risen at all to say anything; but I understand that committee is prepared or expects to offer an amendment to this appropriation bill, for the expenditure of a certain sum of money towards the completion of the Capitol 755 The Extensions. building. If the expenditure is to go on, it seems to me we want an architect or somebody to take charge of the construction of the Capitol. The question being taken by yeas and nays, resulted — yeas 15, nays 34; as follows: * * * So the amendment to the amendment was rejected. The Presiding Officer. The question now recurs on the amendment as reported by the Senator from Georgia, from the Committee on Finance. Mr. Pearce. Mr. President, I will state briefly to’ the Senate why this amendment has been introduced. This art commission, as it- is called, owes its establishment to an amendment inserted by the House of Representatives in an appropriation bill some two years ago, which provided: That none of this appropriation shall be expended in embellishing any part of the Capitol extension with sculpture or paintings, unless the designs for the same shall have undergone the examination of a committee of distinguished artists, not to exceed three in number, to be selected by the Presi- dent; and that the designs which said committee shall accept shall also receive the subsequent approbation of the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress, &c. A similar provision was introduced into the appropriation bill last year; and under that authority, such as it was, the President appointed three gentlemen as members of this art commission. One of them is quite an eminent portrait painter; another is an eminent landscape painter; and the third is a sculptor of decided merit. Mr. Lambdin, Mr. Kensett, and Mr. Brown are the three gentlemen. They were appointed about a year ago, perhaps a little more. They have been sitting from about that time in this Capitol, and we have the fruit of their year’s work in a little report of about seven pages; some two or three pages of which are taken up in criti- cising the ornamentation of the Capitol as far as it has gone, and the sort of painting which is found on the walls. They say nothing, I believe, of the sculpture, except to indorse the merit of Crawford and Rogers, while disapproving the putting of statues in the pediments, preferring to them alto-relievo. Another portion of the report is taken up in suggestions in regard to the art which should be employed in our coinage. There is more than half a page on that subject. There are suggestions as to the sort of subjects which should be the themes of the ornamentation designed for the rooms appropriated to the Supreme Court, which they suggest, should be taken from our judicial history. Then there is a paragraph or two on the subject of pictures in the dome, which are to be of one sort and another. They say: In the dome there will be large spaces for the introduction of pictures, which may be devoted to subjects immediately relating to the discovery of the country — the embarkation and landing of Columbus, and the subsequent discoveries of Ponce de Leon and De Soto. Under the great cornice which surrounds the rotunda there is, in the plan of the architect, a frieze in bas relief, which may embrace the idea of freedom, civil and religious. In the rotunda, below this frieze, may with propriety be represented the colonial history of the country, followed by that of the Revolution; and from the rotunda towards the Halls of the Senate and the House of Representatives, such other successive epochs of our history as would enable a person with ordinary intelligence to read it consecutively. Then there is a suggestion that the desks of the Vice President, and Speaker of the House, should be ornamented with busts. I presume we will have to change the arrangements of the desks for that purpose. Then there are some general sugges- tions in regard to art. Then comes the subject of coinage. Then comes a sugges- tion that their powers and duties should be defined a little more strictly, which indeed is very necesary; for all that the act has done has been to provide that no paintings or sculptures shall be set up in the Capitol unless they were approved by a commission of artists, and subsequently approved by the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress. No power was given them; no salaries are provided for them; but I understand it is considered reasonable to give them $3,000 a year each as salary. I have heard a rumor that the commissioners wish to have some little bureau equipments, such as rooms, messengers, and so on; but nothing is said of this, 75(3 Documentary History of the Capitol. I believe, in their report. These commissioners seem to have adopted a suggestion of an art convention which was held in this city, I believe, in which they say: The advancement of art in the United States may be most surely and completely attained by the establishment of an art commission, composed of those designated by the united voice of American artists as competent to the office; who shall be accepted as the exponents of the authority and in- fluence of American art; who shall be the channels for the distribution of all appropriations to be made by Congress for art purposes, and who shall secure to artists an intelligent and unbiased ad- judication upon the designs they may present for the embellishment of the national 'buildings. They say that the whole scheme of ornamentation of the Capitol and the public buildings and grounds is rather too large a one for them to make any presentment of it to us in the limits of this brief report, which I think is very true; but they do recommend certain estimates of appropriations. They think it is high time to begin to appropriate for the ornamentation of this Capitol, which is sufficiently advanced to admit the receiving of pictures and statues. They begin very moder- ately. They recommend an appropriation now of §166,900, “for pictures to till four panels in each of the Halls of Congress; for four statues for Senate retiring room; for two statues for eastern front door of south wing; for two colossal busts for Senate Chamber; for two statues for House of Representatives; for painting Speaker’s room; for painting private stairways and passages behind Speaker’s chair; for painting room east of Speaker’s room; for painting post office in south wing,” &c. I feel bound to say that their estimate of prices of statues and paintings seems to be more reasonable than the valuations which artists usualy put upon their own productions. Now, sir, that is the product of a year’s labor of these commissioners, for which we must pay, I suppose, at least nine thousand dollars; and if we adopt their recom- mendations, which the committee, I believe, have not considered at all, we shall appropriate §166,900 for these ornamentations. There seems to be a sort of admis- sion that American art is not quite up to the work; but they say it will lie going on a great many years, and by and by native talent in this line will be developed, and we shall have all the necessary artistic ability, if we establish this system of adver- tising for competition which they suggest. I think it must be very manifest (for I do not want to detain the Senate by any long remarks) that we are not ready now r to go on with this sort of ornamentation, and that we really have nothing for these gentlemen to do. Accordingly, they are occupied, for the most part, in painting or sculpture, according to their several voca- tions; one at portraits; another at landscapes; and the third making busts. I take it, that has been the great part of the business which has occupied them for the last year; and it must be evident that it is entirely unnecessary to appoint such a com- mission at this time as a sort of permanent council of art. If it were proposed to have a commission of artists of great distinction merely to recommend a plan of orna- mentation, I do not know that I should object to it; but I think that this little pro- duct for one year’s labor admonishes us that it is scarcely worth while to continue this art commission, which was got up in a hurry, and forced upon the Senate by the House of Representatives; for the Senate rejected it, and it was only upon a com- mittee of conference it was forced through. I will not trouble the Senate any further. Mr. Doolittle. I should like to inquire of the honorable Senator from Maryland whether these gentlemen have been paid anything for their services? Mr. Pearce. Not that I know of. There was no authority to pay them. There was no law that appropriated any salary, and there has been no appropriation. They ought to be paid, undoubtedly. We brought them here; and if there was a propo- sition for paying them §3,000, I would be very willing to agree to it, provided this amendment is carried with it. Mr. Doolittle. I suggest, if any such proposition as this is to go upon the appropria- tion bill, to discharge these gentlemen, and put an end to the offices, it would be but just, it seems to me, that we should pay them when we discharge them. The amendment ought to be accompanied by some provision for paying them for their services, if we are now to discharge them. The Extensions. 757 Mr. Pearce. I think that is very proper; and if the Senator will move a separate amendment appropriating $3,000 to the members of the art commission for their serv- ices during the time they were on that commission, I will vote for it. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment of the Committee on Finance. Mr. Doolittle. Then I will move to amend the amendment which is offered, by providing for the payment of these gentlemen severally the sum suggested by the Senator from Maryland — $3,000 each. Mr. Davis. What ought we to pay them for? Was there any salary fixed? Mr. Slidell. I heard something of the creation of this art commission at the time, and was always given to understand that these gentlemen were animated by a high sense of duty; that they were stimulated only by a feeling to improve the arts of the country; that they desired to have an opportunity of manifesting their taste; that their services were to be purely gratuitous; they were voluntary. I imagine each one of these gentlemen is pursuing his peculiar avocation as a sculptor or painter. One, I believe, is a landscape painter; the other, perhaps, a portrait painter. I do not believe that their time has been at all occupied in this matter so as in any degree to impose upon them any pecuniary sacrifice. Their mission was a self-sought one; not imposed upon them by the sense of the community at all, but rendered at their earnest instance. Now, these gentlemen, whose ordinary avocations have not been at all interrupted by any duties they may have performed here, come and ask for $3,000 a piece for them. Mr. Toombs. That is not in the amendment. Mr. Slidell. It is the amendment to the amendment proposed by the Senator from Wisconsin. They ask us, in fact, for the concoction of a pamphlet, which has been read by the Senator from Maryland, to pay them $9,000. Mr. Pearce. I beg leave to say to the Senator that there is nothing about their pay in this report. Mr. Slidell. I do not say that; but it is now proposed to give them $9,000. Mr. Toombs. That amendment is not in order. Where does it come from? It is adding a new appropriation, and is contrary to the rule. The amendment of the Senator from Wisconsin is certainly out of order. The section that I propose contains no appropriation whatever. There is no estimate for the sum contained in the amend- ment to the amendment, and it does not come from any committee. Mr. Doolittle. I supposed I was offering it on the official character of the Sen- ator from Maryland — from the Finance Committee — as he suggested that, if I would offer that amendment, he would give it his support . Mr. Toombs. I object to it as out of order. The Presiding Officer. The Chair does not understand such a proposition yet to have been made. It was a mere suggestion of the Senator from Wisconsin, as the Chair understands it. Mr. Toombs. I hope we will take the question. The Presidimg Officer. The question is on the amendment reported by the Sen- ator from Georgia — by the Committee on Finance. The amendment was agreed to. [Senate proceedings of June 11, 1860: Congressional Globe, 36—1, p. 2829.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1861— Mr. Bright. I have a further amendment, from the Committee on Public Build- ings and Grounds: For converting the old Senate Chamber into a court room, the old court room into a law library, and for fitting up the rooms in connection with them for the use of the Supreme Court and its officers, $45,000, to be expended under the direction of the Commissioner of Public Buildings and Grounds. Documentary II! story of the Capitol. 758 The necessity for the adoption of this amendment is apparent, I suppose, to most of the Senators acquainted with the situation of the old building. I hope there will be no objection to it. Mr. Polk. I desire to ask if there are any estimates which make this amount necessary? It seems to be large. Mr. Bright. The honorable Senator from Mississippi has had the subject more particularly under charge than 1 have. Mr. Davis. It was estimated for last year. When the Senate removed from the old Chamber, the room in which the Supreme Court had been sitting for many years being dark, the judges selected the Senate Chamber, and they very much preferred to have the library immediately below them, with a connection by a private stair. The amendment which is offered is in accordance with the plan and estimate that was adopted at the time, and, so far as I know, meets the views of all the members of the Supreme Court. Some of them I have conversed with. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment of the Senator from Indiana. Mr. II ale. I have been instructed by the select committee which was appointed to consider the plan for the alteration of the Senate Chamber, to submit the proposition upon which they agreed as an amendment to this bill; and if the Senate adopt the plan which lias been recommended by the committee for the alteration of this Chamber, we shall want some place to sit in while the alterations are going on; and probably we shall take the old Senate Chamber. If the Senator has no objection to letting his amendment lie over until we try mine, and see whether it will be adojited or not, I think it would be better. Mr. Bright. Does the Senator propose offering that amendment to this bill? Mr. Hale. Yes, sir. Mr. Bright. Then I withdraw my amendment. I think it a matter of great con- sequence to settle the question whether we shall convert the old Senate Chamber into a room for the Supreme Court. It is a matter that the officers of the court and others connected with the building are impatient about. I withdraw my amendment for the present. Mr. Hale. I am instructed by the select committee, to whom the subject was referred, to move to amend the bill by the insertion of a new section in these words: And be it farther enacted. That the superintendent of the Capitol extension be, and he hereby is, authorized and directed to alter and reconstruct the Senate Chamber in the north extension of the Capitol, in conformity with the report and plan prepared by him, marked A, and signed by the said superintendent and chairman of the select committee appointed for the purpose, with a view to its removal to the northwest corner of the said north extension, in accordance with a resolution of the Senate of the 19th day of March, I860, and that there be, and hereby is, appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, the sum of $200,000, for the purpose of carrying this act into effect: Provided , That all iron work required to carry out the provisions of this act shall be purchased, after due public advertisement, by contract with the lowest bidder. Mr. Davis. As I heard the amendment, it would seem to imply that this was a plan approved by the superintendent of the building. Do I understand it to be so asserted? Mr. Hale. I will state the facts. We did not ask him whether he approved it or not. The committee met and heard various plans suggested, and various suggestions wen' made by the different members of the committee, and the superintendent was then instructed to prepare a plan in accordance with these suggestions. The plan was prepared by the superintendent and submitted to us, and has been here several days in the Senate Chamber. I do not think that the amendment reads that it was approved by him, because we did not ask him, whether, as a matter of judgment, he approved of the thing or not. He waited upon us very courteously, and listened to all our suggestions, acting substantially under the directions of the committee. Mr. Davis. That is to say, the superintendent prepared a plan and estimate in The Extensions. 759 accordance with the directions of the committee. Of course he would do that; but I did not suppose anybody ever competent to be superintendent of the construction of such a building as this could have approved of the removal of the Senate Chamber into the wing. The great object has been to separate the Senate Chamber from exterior noise, and to relieve the deliberations of the body from any confusion which might be outside of the Capitol. All the heating and ventilation have been directed towards the present location of the Chamber. To remove it now into a wing, a room which cannot be made exactly suited to the purpose, which never can be brought to compare favorably at all with the one in which we are now sitting, seems to me to be an idiosyncrasy on the part of the Senator from New Hampshire, who insists on having a window which connects him with the open air. We all know the advantage of having the Senator all the time in the Chamber; but if he must be in the open air, it would be even better for the rest of us that he should occasionally go out, than that we should all be removed from a Chamber so admi- rably adapted to the purposes for which it was constructed, in order to bring the Senator from New Hampshire contiguous to a window. There may be defects in the ventilation of the room; I have not perceived them. It is a very small mat- ter to correct those defects compared with the construction of a new Chamber and the abandonment of one like this, which must attract the admiration of every one who sees it, and which, in its acoustic effects, is as perfect as any room of the size I ever saw 7 . I hope the Senate w'ill not entertain the amendment. Mr. Hale. I did not hear everything that the Senator from Mississippi said; but so far as he speaks of this Chamber being a matter for admiration, that is a question of opinion or taste, and I wil 1 not dispute about that. I am sorry that I do not see upon the floor, at the present time, my colleagues on the committee; but I will venture to suggest a single remark that was made by one of them, the Senator from South Carolina, [Mr. Hammond,] who is not now in his seat; whose opinion w r as that the arrangement here v 7 as so bad and so unnatural, having heat come upon the head and cold upon the feet, that of the new 7 Senators sworn in on the 4th of March 1859, if they were subjected to this room for six years, very few 7 of them would be alive at the end of their term. I think myself, with all respect, and meaning to offend the feelings of nobody, that the S'enate Chamber is an utter failure. That is my humble opinion, and I think in that I am confirmed by the opinion of the associates with me on the committee. After we have had various consultations, and made sugges- tions, and the plan w r as reported which is now 7 hung up on the side of the Senate Chamber, Captain Franklin, the present superintendent of the construction, produced to us the- old plan upon which the Senate Chamber w r as originally begun before the alteration, and I think anybody who will look at it will say that the plan now sub- mitted by Captain Franklin under the direction of the committee, is substantially the plan that w 7 as then agreed upon. It takes in tlie north windows, six of them I think, carries the President’s chair back to the wall, and takes in three or four windows upon the west end. This plan does another thing, which, I think, will commend it to the consideration and judgment of most members of the Senate. It reduces the galleries at least one half. The present galleries are intended to accommodate about a thousand persons, and undei; the plan now 7 submitted by the committee, the galleries will accommodate about four hundred. In that respect it conforms to the decided view of every member of the committee, and makes a Chamber better suited to the purposes of such an assembly as the Senate is or ought to be — vastly superior to the one we are now in. I think, Mr. President, that this is a very important question. I think the present arrangement is bad and unhealthy, and that this mode of supplying air, pumped up from the basement by steam engines, is not any improvement upon that which was devised by Providence, years before the mechanical purposes of steam were dis- covered by man. I think we had better take air as it comes to us from the God of Documentary History of the Capitol. 760 nature and of heaven, if we can get it, rather than to submit it to such a circuitous way as that in which it now comes to us. I do not make these remarks with a disposition to find fault, or to throw ridicule upon anybody or anything; but these are my opinions. I think the Senator from Mississippi meant to be a little witty on me, but .1 do not know what it was. If I had heard what he said, I should have endeavored to answer it as well as I could. I do not know that I could make much out of it — probably not. These are the views which I entertain, and the views of the committee that had the subject under consideration with me. They are unanimous in the opinion that moving the Chamber to the northwest corner, according to the plan before us, and taking the light and the air from the windows, will be a very great improvement. As to the matter of noise, we should be just as free from it as we are now, and more so. The yard will probably lie extended, so that the building will be in the center of the inclosure, and we shall be as free from the noise of the street as we are in this room. I do not wish to dwell on this subject. The Senate have the plan before them, and. can see it and know what it is. I am content to abide by their judgment. Mr. Doolittle. Mr. President, I fear that my honorable friend from New Hamp- shire, in introducing this proposition, has touched upon a question on which the members of the Senate will be exceedingly sensitive before the matter is fully decided. We may differ very much in our views in relation to the improvement of the Senate Chamber whenever we come to act upon that question. Whether the Senate Chamber should be extended out to the outside air on the north, and upon the west, or whether, for the purpose of getting some outside air, and outside light, windows should be put over the doors and niches, and the ceiling raised some ten or twelve feet without destroying the roof, and with, perhaps, a tithe of the expense of taking out all the interior arrangements, and carrying the Senate Chamber out on the north and west, is a very serious question ; and coming up on this appropriation bill in this way, will lead to very long discussion before it can be determined by the Sen- ate, in my judgment, and acted upon understandingly. This subject has been called to my attention by the presentation of altogether a different plan for the improve- ment of the Senate Chamber, accompanied by a memorial, which, perhaps, I ought to have presented to the Senate before, bearing on this question — a memorial of Mr. Anderson, the same person whose plan it seems you have taken in reference to the jail of the city. I do not propose to discuss the question at this hour of the day; but this is an important matter, as to the improvement of the Senate Chamber; and it certainly will cost a quarter of a million of dollars to make the alteration of which the Senator speaks; and without passing my judgment upon the propriety of any altera- tion at all, or what alteration would be best, I am opposed to putting an amendment now on this appropriation bill for any alteration. The Presiding Officer put the question on the amendment of Mr. Hale; and there were nine ayes. Mr. Hale. I call for the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were not ordered. The Presiding Officer. The amendment is rejected. Mr. Bright. I now offer the amendment which I withdrew to enable the Senator from New Hampshire to offer his: For converting the old Senate Chamber into a court-room, the old court-room into a law library, and for fitting up the rooms in connection with them for the use of the Supreme Court and its officers, $45,000; to be expended under the direction of the Commissioner of Public Buildings and Grounds. The question being put, there were — ayes 15, noes 12. Mr. Johnson, of Tennessee. There is no quorum voting. _ Mr. Toombs. Let us have a new division ; there are plenty of Senators around. Mr. Bright. I ought to have stated, perhaps, that the appropriation is asked for by The Extensions. 761 those who are deeply interested in the benefit that will result from it — the court and its officers; and I had thought there was a general feeling in favor of the improve- ment proposed. I ought to have stated, when I was up before, too, that the estimate is from the superintendent, and all the plans and specifications are in the room of the Committee on Public Buildings, and the improvement is recommended because it is believed the public interest and public convenience require it. Mr. Clark. I hope the question will be taken over again. I am confident some Senators have since come in. Mr. Bragg. I wish to say one word. I voted against this amendment and I shall vote against it again. I look upon this appropriation as a most unreasonable and extravagant one. I am willing to vote for a reasonable amount to fit up the old Senate Chamber for the Supreme Court room ; but we are censured from one end of the country to the other for extravagance in our appropriations here for public build- ings. I know nothing about the details of this appropriation; but the idea of appro- priating 145,000 to fit up that room for the Supreme Court, is one that strikes me as enormous in its character, and which the Senate ought not to entertain. Mr. Davis. I will not undertake to revise the estimate; but I think there is an error in supposing it is all for one room. There is a good deal of expense in that room to connect it with the room below; and the rooms on the same floor, which formerly constituted the rooms of the Secretary of the Senate and his clerks, are to he turned over to the Supreme Court. The fitting up of the library below and the rooms on the same floor for the clerk and other officers of the court, a conference room, &c., together with the expense of the old Senate Chamber, form the basis of the estimate. I cannot say whether the estimate is too liberal or not. Mr. Pugh. This matter was before the Committee on the Judiciary at the last ses- sion. We examined the estimate, and I think we reduced it to a very low figure — perhaps to the amount now proposed. It is certainly a shame that the Supreme Court of the United States has to hold its sessions in the cellar, for that is about the amount of it. There is no room more appropriate than that which the Senate has lately vacated, and with the adjacent rooms for the law library and the clerk, it will be very convenient to the Senators who have frequently business in the court, in the clerk’s office, and in the library. I hope, therefore, that this amendment, which passed the Senate almost unanimously at the last session, will now be added to the bill. The House of Representatives threw it out last year; but I hope the House will have better sense this. I trust the amendment will be adopted. The Presiding Officer again put the question on the amendment; and announced the result to be — ayes 17, noes 16. Several Senators. There is not a quorum voting. The Presiding Officer. There are but sixty-five Senators, and thirty-three is a majority of that number. Mr. Hamlin and Mr. Hale. There are sixty-six Senators. The Presiding Officer. But there is one vacancy. Mr. Hamlin. But it takes a majority of a full Senate to make a quorum. You have to count the whole number of the Senators that there would be if the Senate was full. That is the rule. Thirty-four is a quorum, and nothing less. The Presiding Officer. The Chair did not vote. The Chair will decide it by voting in the affirmative. That makes a quorum. Mr. Johnson, of Arkansas. Allow us to call the yeas and nays, if you please, before you do it. That is taking a judgment on us rather too early. I suggest to the Chair that, before deciding the question, he allow us to call for the yeas and nays. The Presiding Officer. Does the Senator from Arkansas call for the yeas and nays? Mr. Johnson, of Arkansas. Yes, sir; because 1 do not believe it is right. 762 Documentary History of the Capitol. The Presiding Officer. The Chair will put the question on seconding the call for the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered. Mr. Polk. I am in favor of fitting up this room for the Supreme Court, but I can- not vote to appropriate this amount for the purpose. Mr. Kennedy. I desire to say, without detaining the Senate, that I am in favor of fitting up these rooms in very handsome style, to accommodate the Supreme Court; but, for the life of me, I do not see how it will take $45,000 to do it. Mr. Pugh. Will the Senator allow me to state to him that the old building was made on a particular plan, which requires an alteration of the walls? Mr. Kennedy. I do not desire to discuss it. Mr. Johnson, of Arkansas. I do not believe it ought to take $45,000. It seems to me that the room which was good enough for the Senate, is good enough for the Supreme Court; nor do I appreciate the declaration which we have heard here from a Senator on the floor, that the rooms around the Senate Chamber must be made better. It seems to me that that which did for the Vice President and the services of the Senate, ought to be quite good enough for the Supreme Court. I do not believe this amount ought to be voted. Mr. Hale. 1 move to amend the amendment, by striking out the word “forty ” before the word ‘ 1 five. ’ ’ Mr. Bright. Senators seem to be laboring under the impression that nothing but the old Senate Chamber is to be improved by the money appropriated here. Such is not the fact. The entire rooms below are to be changed. There is to be a library room, and rooms for the clerk and other officers of the court, below. Then the Senate Chamber is to be converted into a room for the sessions of the Supreme Court, and the rooms adjoining into consultation rooms for the judges, with some other rooms for their convenience. I did not say that I knew the sum proposed was more than sufficient; but I have relied entirely upon estimates made by the Commissioner of Public Buildings. I suppose that he made an honest estimate; that he estimated for no more than he thought sufficient to put all the rooms — not one, but there are perhaps ten — in a convenient condition for the court and their officers to occupy. If Senators think the sum too large, I do not wish to be a party to an appropriation that could be considered extravagant; and if Senators on their own knowledge can say that a smaller sum will answer, I will vote for the smaller sum; but I think the work ought to be done; the change ought to be made soon. Mr. Mallory. I have no doubt the estimate is a correct one. It is impossible for the Senate to say that it is not. It has been confided to careful hands, and no doubt the estimate is correct, and the money will all be expended if the appropri- ation be made; but I shall vote against the amendment, not because I am adverse to fitting up the Supreme Court room properly— and this sum of money would undoubtedly build a separate building for them — but because I would vote to-mor- row to return to the old Senate Chamber; and I hope to see the day when we shall do so. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment of the Senator from New Hampshire, to reduce the appropriation from $45,000 to $5,000. Mr. Johnson, of Arkansas, called for the yeas and nays, and they were ordered. Mr. Clingman. I desire to say that I shall vote against this proposition, because I wish to fix the sum at $20,000. The question being taken by yeas and nays, resulted — yeas 11, nays 27; as follows: So the amendment to the amendment was rejected. Mr. Clingman. I move to strike out $45,000, and insert $20,000. I think the vyork can perhaps be done in a comfortable style for that sum, though, to be sure, it is a mere guess of mine. The Senate does not seem to like a larger sum. The Extensions. 763 Mr. Kennedy. Is it in order to amend the motion of the Senator from North Carolina? The Presiding Officer. No, sir. Mr. Clingman. I will name $25,000, at the suggestion of Senators. Mr. Bright. I shall not wrestle with what I consider to be a settled opinion of the Senate. I believe there is a majority against appropriating a larger sum; and I will accept the proposition of the Senator from North Carolina to fix the sum at $25,000, but adding a proviso that that amount shall finish it; for I do not believe in first refusing a large sum and giving a smaller one in order to commence a work, and afterwards appropriating the full amount. 1 hope there will be no objection to my amendment as I have now modified it. Mr. Bragg. I wish to ask the honorable Senator from North Carolina whether there is anything in the amendment which refers to the plan. If I understand the matter, the plan, which is now before, me, is furnished as the basis upon which the com- mittee have proposed that this amount be appropriated. It proposes a change in that whole portion of the old building; and if 1 understand the Senator and those who favor this amendment, this $45,000 is but a beginning in the way of expense which this plan will require to be carried out; and I should like to inquire whether the estimate of Captain Meigs does not require a much larger sum to carry out the plan which is now exhibited to the Senate. Mr. Bright. I will say, that if I supposed it would take more than $45,000, 1 should not have offered the amendment. Mr. Bragg. I want to know if the estimate is not for a larger amount? Mr. Bright. Not to my knowledge. Forty-five thousand dollars was to finish it, as I understood. Mr. Davis. The estimate was to complete it; and while I am up, I will add that the amount which it will require will depend more or less on the style adopted. You could make a pine table for one-twentieth the cost of the mahogany desk on which the Senator writes. How far the expense may be reduced by reducing the style, I am not prepared to say. Mr. Trumbull. I desire to make an inquiry of the Senator from Louisiana to know why this is to be done under the Commissioner of Public Buildings. It seems to me that this work, to be in harmony, should be under the same supervision as the entire Capitol. I understand from a remark of the Senator from North Carolina, that this is a proposition which will change the whole structure of that part of the building. If that is so, it certainly ought not to be done, unless by the direction of the super- intendent of the building. This appropriation, I understand, is to be expended under the Commissioner of Public Buildings, who does not have charge of the Capi- tol. If I am correct in that, I think the officer should be changed. Mr. Bright. I ask the Secretary to read my amendment as it now stands. The Secretary read it, as follows: For converting the old Senate Chamber into a court-room, the old court-room into a law library, and lor fitting up the rooms in connection with them for the use of the Supreme Court and its officers, $25,000: Provided, The work can be finished for that sum, to be expended under the direction of the Commissioner of Public Buildings and Grounds. Mr. Bright. Does the Senator from Illinois desire to change the person who shall have charge of the work? Mr. Trumbull. It was to that that I called attention. I know nothing about the individuals at all ; but I understand the Capitol is not under the supervision of the Commissioner of Public Buildings and Grounds, but under another officer. If I am correct in that, I think this alteration should be made under the direction of the officer who has charge of the building. Mr. Bright. I will remark that the superintendent of the Capitol extension, as he is called, has never had charge of the old building, but only of the new wings. If 764 Documentary History of the Capitol. Senators are dissatisfied with the officer who is to expend the money or supervise the work, let them substitute another person. It is a mere point of delicacy. Mr. Davis. The Senator from Illinois misapprehends the fact. To carry out his idea would be to displace the Commissioner of Public Buildings from what lie has always had control of. Mr. Trumbull. I do not desire to do that. I was acting on the supposition that the superintendent had charge of the wdiole. Mr. Davis. He is only superintendent of the extension. The old building, like all the other public buildings here, remains in charge of the Commissioner of Public Buildings. Mr. Trumbull. I thought, from the remark of the Senator from North Carolina, that there was a change in that respect, and l was opposed to that. Mr. Mason. 1 think we are somewhat in the condition known to many of us who have had the misfortune to build a new house. The difficulty is to know what to do with the old one. I do not know that there are any objections taken to the present room for the Supreme Court. So far as my experience has gone, it is a room very well adapted to them. It was constructed as a court-room. It is one in which the bar is heard by the court, and the court is heard by the bar. There is abundant room there to transact the business. I see no reason whjr it should be changed. I know of no reason except that, having built a new house ourselves, there are rooms unappropriated in the old wing of the Capitol. I am against the whole proposition in any form. I am not aware that any complaints are made of the room in which the law library is kept now, and I see no reason for any change. Mr. Bayard. At the last session of Congress, the plan submitted came before the Committee on the Judiciary. It was made at the suggestion of the Supreme Court for their accommodation. But further than that, the data were before us which showed that the present law library room was entirely inadequate, in point of size, for the books it contained, and the books that must necessarily go to increase it. The rearrangement was absolutely necessary in regard to the library. As it is now, the books cannot lie kept in the order in which they can be got at with convenience, in the present limited accommodations of the library. The proposed arrangement was devised under the superintendence and advice of the judges of the Supreme Court. It was afterwards cut down, on suggestions from the committee, by the superintendent of the building, through the agency of the architect, and brought down to the low ; est point at which the estimate could be made. I have not had time to examine the debate of the last session, but my recollection is that the Senate passed the amendment as the Judiciary Committee then recommended it, and that it was rejected in the other House. But that the accommodation is requisite, that it is a matter of public necessity that we ought to make provision for the proper accom- modation of the Supreme Court, and that it is absolutely necessary that further pro- vision should be made for the law' library, I have no doubt whatever, on the evi- dence before me at the last session; and I do not suppose that the necessity for increased accommodation has ceased or grown less since. I have no doubt that these proper changes should be made. It is not, I think, as the Senator from Virginia supposes, because we have the old building unoccupied, that we are, therefore, dis- posed to make the change. It has always been understood that the old room of the Supreme Court was not a convenient room for the purposes of the court. It will make an admirable library, and will afford a consultation room for the judges. As matters now stand, the judges are obliged to have a consultation room outside of the Capitol. I cannot recollect all the matters of convenience connected with it now; but I am perfectly sure that if this plan is the same which was presented at the last session, it is one which the public interests require; one wffiich the Senate then endorsed, and one that I think ought to be passed now. Mr. Toombs. I think we can take the question. We have been discussing it for The Extensions. 765 an hour and a half; but some of the gentlemen that have been out do not seem to know it. I hope the Senate will take the question as to whether they will now vote $25,000 for this purpose. We have spent an hour and a half on it. Mr. Johnson, of Arkansas. I presume, if we are tired of this debate, we can adjourn; but if we are to proceed further with this matter, we ought to have an understanding about it. The suggestion of the Senator from North Carolina strikes me, and is, I think, deserving of the attention of the Senate; and that is the fact that, under this arrangement, the whole interior structure is to be changed. We know the value of estimates. They generally mean one half or one fourth of what the work is to cost. The interior structure of this building is to be materially changed, and $45,000 is the amount proposed, and the amount of $25,000 I will not vote for. If I voted against reducing the amount to $5,000, it was because I thought it was so entirely below possibility that it would not have begun the work. With $25,000, though, they will begin to change the structure of the whole Capitol, and whenever they have commenced it, it will be like the rest of the appropriations; the argument will be that we must go on and finish it. It seems to me that the building, which was good enough for the Senate of the United States from the erection of the Capitol until last year, is good enough for the nine men who constitute the Supreme Court of the United States. I see no reason why the whole interior of that building should now be required to be reconstructed, torn away and then built up again, and the Government of the United States embarked in an expenditure, the end of which we do not and cannot foresee. If we take the example of other appropriations that have been made heretofore upon estimates, the estimates have never been worth anything to us. Forty-five thousand dollars is the first proposition, and $45,000 will be the second, and $45,000 in all probability will be the third, and then we shall have to furnish the rooms. When you commence this appropriation, there is no telling what will be the end of it. The Senator from North Carolina has submitted the plan, and this amendment is to be passed with reference to that plan. There was scarcely one of us who knew, at the time the proposition was first moved, that it embraced a plan for tearing away and reconstructing. That was not explained to the body at the time the proposition was made. I heard nothing of it until the Senator from North Carolina produced the plan and spoke of it. Now, it is advocated on the ground that the present Supreme Court room is not a good room, and furthermore that it is a shame that the court should be placed in the cellar. It has never been a shame to the Supreme Court, thus far in the history of the Government, that they have sat in that room; and I discover one thing very distinctly, that the force and effect of their opinions is not so much reverenced now that there should be any objection on account of the place where they sit. Their opinions are not accepted altogether as a proper exposition of the Constitution of the United States. I do not know that better, or sounder, or purer decisions will be given by taking them up to the old Senate Chamber, and reconstructing the whole of that part of the Capitol at an expense which none of us can foresee. I believe that the old Chamber as it is is amply sufficient for them; and if it was good enough for the Senate, it ought to be for them. I believe the old room which was occupied by the Vice President of the United States for so many years will very well answer the Supreme Court for the purpose of consultation, or they can very well go to their own rooms for consultation, as they have hitherto done, rather than involve an immense expense here in providing rooms for them. I thought, in the first instance, that I would vote for some amount to furnish the rooms; but I now find that this plan involves the reconstruction of the whole building. We are to tear out the interior, and then put in a new interior, at an expense of which the first estimate only is now furnished to us; and I never saw a first estimate that was not afterwards doubled upon. I do not see the propriety of our going into it. I think the cost is entirely too great. I would not vote to start .Documentary History of the Capitol. 766 with $25,000; for if we start with $25,000, it will be no use to say that $25,000 is all. Forty-five 'thousand dollars, we see, is the amount now estimated. I am opposed to reconstructing the old wing of the Capitol for the accommodation of the Supreme Court, when this body will not consent to the reconstruction of the Senate Chamber, though we now occupy a room which, according to my judgment and the judgment of a great many here, is not so good for hearing and for purposes of discussion as the old Chamber was. You will not change the construction of this Chamber, so that it can have light and air, and be more circumscribed in its area; but at the same time you will vote probably $150,000 in the end for changing the old Chamber for the Supreme Court. I would prefer to vote to go back to the old Senate Chamber, rather than stay here, as a mere matter of taste and convenience. I shall vote against the amendment. I am willing, however, to furnish the rooms, and let the Supreme Court take them as they are, if they want them. If they are not good enough for them, let them stay where they are. Mr. Doolittle. I suggest to the Senator from Indiana that he make his amendment read: “for furnishing and fitting up the rooms;” and not leave an amendment which authorizes the man who is to have charge of it to tear the rooms to pieces, break into the walls, pull down the walls, and rebuild them; but just fit up the old Senate Chamber for a court-room, and the old court-room for a library. The other rooms are good enough. Mr. Bright. I modified my amendment in such a way as I supposed would be acceptable to a majority of the Senate; and I ask that it be read again. The Secretary read the amendment, as follows: For converting the old Senate Chamber into a court-room, the old court-room into a law library, and for fitting up the rooms in connection with them for the use of the Supreme Court and its officers, 825,000: Provided, The work can be finished for that sum; to be expended under the direction of the Commissioner of Public Buildings and Grounds. Mr Bright. That limits the amount. I hope it will be sufficient; if not, of course, the work will not lie undertaken. I should like to have a vote directly on the amendment as it is. The question being taken by yeas and nays, resulted — yeas 22, nays 17. * * * So the amendment was agreed to. Mr. Davis. I offer this amendment : To enable the superintendent of the Capitol extension to purchase from Rice& Heebner thirty-four monolithic columns, at the prices specified in their supplemental contract of March 30, 1854, the marble for said columns to be approved by said superintendent, the sum of $47,000: Provided, That no part of the sum appropriated for the prosecution of the work shall be applied to the purchase of marble columns. The amendment, I believe, explains itself as fully as I could do it. The Senate are so familiar with the subject, and the hour is so late, that I shall not say anything upon it. The amendment was agreed to. [House proceedings of June 15, 1860: Congressional Globe, 36 — 1, 3041.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union having under consideration the Senate amendments to the sundry civil bill for 1861 — Mr. Stanton. * * * When both ends of the Capitol were in the possession of the Democratic party, they started upon the construction of these new wings to the Capitol, and of the Treasury extension; and I cannot tell how many million dollars have been expended upon these works by Democratic majorities in both ends of the Capitol. What I want is that they should be finished by that party while it is in power. I think its race is pretty nigh run. On the 4th of March next, I think another party will come into power; and I want this Democratic party to complete The Extensions. i b i the works it has commenced before it goes out of power. I want it to meet the responsibilities it has incurred, and not allow them to be thrown upon another Administration. Mr. Crawford. I desire to say that my information is very different from that of the gentleman from Ohio, and that these public works were commenced under Mr. Fillmore’s administration, and not under a Democratic Administration. * * * Mr. Stanton. I know this, that Mr. Fillmore’s administration never had a Congress to agree with it, and never had either House of Congress. Both Houses of Congress were Democratic under Mr. Fillmore’s administration; and I take it that no appro- priation could be made without the assent of Congress. I believe it was profligacy upon the part of Congress to commence these wings of the Capitol, and the work was commenced when there was- an overwhelming Democratic majority in both branches of the Congress of the United .States. You have been undertaking works which will require an enormous expenditure, and which cannot be completed with less than thirty or forty million dollars; and I want you, the Democratic party, to take the responsibility of completing them, and not throw that responsibility upon the coming Administration. I do not want the unfinished jobs you have commenced under a Democratic Administration thrown upon the Administration which will succeed you, and which, I trust, will be an economical, pure, and just Administra- tion, and one worthy of the confidence of the nation. I want you to finish the jobs you have commenced, and to make the necessary appropriations therefor. And if an additional tariff is necessary to fill the Treasury, consider that question, and come up and meet it fairly and squarely, like men. Mr. Kunkel. Why did the other side of the House repeal the tariff of 1846? Mr. Stanton. It was repealed by the Senate, and by a House which did not have any majority in it belonging to any party. And it was repealed upon the recom- mendation of the Democratic Secretary of the Treasury, Mr. Guthrie, because he said he had too much money, a surplus of $21,000,000, and he did not know what to do with it. The Secretary prayed Congress to modify the tariff, and now you are pray- ing to discontinue these public buildings, because you have not money enough; and it is time you were out of office. Mr. Kunkel. I would ask the gentleman from Ohio if the tariff of 1846 was not repealed by northern men employing money for the purpose of influencing the action of this House in the Thirty-Fourth Congress? Mr. Stanton. The tariff of 1857 was fixed up by a committee of conference between the two Houses, made up of a Democratic Senate, and under the lead of Mr. Letcher, a member of the Committee of Ways and Means of the House, and a Democratic member from the State of Virginia, and with his assent and support. It received my continued and persistent opposition. * * * Fifth amendment : To pay for labor on, and materials furnished for, the Capitol extension, $153,601.74; and to enable the superintendent to take care of the marble which has been delivered, and of the shops occupied, and to lay the marble floorings of the porticoes, and to pay for the bronze doors, $48,920; and for con- tingencies of the Capitol extension, $2,300, making $204,821.74. The Committee of Ways and Means recommended concurrence. Mr. Quarles. I move to amend by striking out $153,601.74. I cannot see the policy which should induce this committee to cease the work on such important buildings as the custom-houses at Charleston and New Orleans, and still expend large sums in beautifying this gorgeous palace. The buildings at Charleston and New Orleans are necessary for the trade and commerce of those cities and of the country; but what necessity is there for spending more money on this Capitol? Has not enough been done here to satisfy our love of show and extravagance? I do hope Documentary History of the Capitol. 768 that the committee will reject the amendment of the Senate. Where is the money to come from? Already the Treasury is almost empty. Then, I ask what policy of prudence and wisdom should induce you to close the work on the custom-houses of New Orleans and Charleston, and then lavish money 021 this building? Why not appropriate just enough to protect the unfinished work here, as you have done there? I call upon gentlemen to furnish to the country a sensible reason for this inconsist- ency. Is it more to the benefit of the country that you should have these splendid buildings completed here than that the ships which come to our southern ports should be unloaded, and discharge their cargoes, and get their clearances with facility? I do hope the House will non-eoncur in the amendment of the Senate. I do hope that Congress will come up and lay the knife to the extravagancies here at the Capitol, as well as in all the Departments of the Government. Mr. Phelps. I regret that the gentleman from Tennesseee has mistaken the amend- ment on which he has made his speech. His speech was designed for the sixth amendment. The amendment now under consideration only proposes to pay for work already done and materials furnished at the Capitol extension. When we come to the next amendment, I will cooperate with him in opposing it. Mr. Quarles. You can transfer my speech to that other amendment. Mr. Phelps. Well, then, I suppose it is not necessary that I should say more than that we have already the materials collected here; that we owe for them; that we owe for the labor bestowed by the workmen on this Capitol; and I, for one, am in favor of paying our honest debts. Mr. Quarles. I withdraw ray amendment. Mr. Hill. Mr. Chairman, I move to amend the amendment by reducing the sum proposed five dollars; and my object in doing it is to make a few remarks. I profess to have no knowledge myself — it is not to be expected that a member of the House not on the committee should have any definite knowledge — of what would be a proper appropi'iation for continuing the work necessary to be done for the comple- tion of this Capitol. I take it for granted, however, that there is some approxima- tion to what may be a correct amount in the proposition from the Senate. It is based upon some reliable data, I presume, from the particular sum required. I do not agree with my friend from Tennessee in repudiating the idea of bestowing any more of the treasure of this nation upon the adornment and completion of this Capitol. Sir, I shall never hesitate, whenever a proper appropriation is called for for the completion or the embellishment of the Capitol of my country, to vote for it with pleasure; and I will not stop to inquire what is the condition of the Treasury. Our Government has good credit, and its Capitol is in a state of improvement. I will not interrupt the work, I will not obstruct it, while the country can borrow money at four or five per cent. I hold it to be a mark of patriotic duty to make this Capitol what it was designed to be by the architects, who have, by authority of law, devised the plans for the extension, in one wing of which we now hold our sessions. I propose to go on with it, and to complete it, and to make it the pride and the boast of our country that it has such an edifice in which its national Legislature holds its sittings. Sir, as for that economy which would leave the Capitol of the nation unfinished, and persuade the people that the sessions of the national Legislature might be held in a huge log cabin, it suits not my taste. I have never made a vote out of the people of my district — and I never expect to make one — by views of that sort. I say to the poorest man, that it should be a source of just pride to him, if he has an American heart in his bosom, to go to the seat of Government, that bears the honored name of the Father of his Country, and see what a splendid edifice it is in which the people’s repi’esentatives meet. It belongs as much to him as to the wealthiest citizen; and the poor man does not need to be impressed with the idea that the expense comes out of his pocket. Sir, in the main, under our revenue system, it does The Extensions. 769 not come from that source; it does not oppress the poor man. It comes chiefly from the pockets of the rich, or of those who imitate the rich, in lavish expenditure, whether they be rich or not. And these appeals to the poor man, who spends but little in dutia ble articles in support of his national Government, are, in my judgment, calculated to impair the love of country that ought to exist among the people. I have never made them, and I never shall make them. I shall vote, so long as I have the honor of a seat upon this floor, adequate supplies for the perfection of all the public works in this city; and I shall so vote for the additional reason, that I desire to make this Capitol the seat of a national constitutional government of the American people for a thousand years to come. I would make it the shrine of patriotism, embellished with the choicest gems of art. Every niche should be filled with statuary commemo- rative of our great men, from the master-hands of our best sculptors; and every panel enriched with representations of American history, from the pencils of our greatest painters. And I would not restrict their ornamentation to the artists of our own country if I did not believe that it already possesses genius and cultivated talent worthy of the noble task. I now propose to withdraw my amendment. Mr. Grow. So far as the completion of the public buildings is concerned, if it is necessary to finish them some time, then the depreciation of the material is greater than the interest on the cost of completing them. The estimates sent to the Secre- tary of the Treasury for keeping the public works and fortifications in repair were, I believe, $2,500,000. The Secretary sent to Congress an estimate of about seven hundred thousand dollars, cutting them down thus much from the estimates of the men in charge of the work; and I believe we appropriated in the fortification bill but $600,000 out of the $2,500,000 asked for by the engineer corps in charge of the works. But $5,000 was estimated by the Secretary for the Treasury Department, and everybody know's that that would not lay up scarcely a single stone. What is the reason why the expenses of the Government should be estimated for this year far below the public wants? Mr. Crawford.. Allow me to answer the gentleman’s question. Mr. Grow. The gentleman can answer me when I get through, unless I am wrong in my figures or statement. Mr. Crawford. I understand the gentleman to say that the Secretary of the Treas- ury recommended §5,000 for the extension of the Treasury. Mr. Grow. For the Treasury building. Mr. Crawford. That is a mistake. He estimated $5,000 for the preservation of the work, and not for the extension. Mr. Grow. Call it what you please. He estimated $5,000 for the Treasury build- ing; that is all. Now, it is only a question for Congress, whether they think it necessary to complete that building or not. If so, it will be better to appropriate the money to-day than ten years hence, when it will cost a great deal more, from the depreciation which the building will have sustained from being left unprotected and unfinished. Now, I know not whether this amount is necessary for this building, but I know this: that this Congress ought to appropriate all the money which is necessary tp prose- cute the work on the public buildings rapidly and successfully to their completion. No gentleman, I presume, proposes to leave the Capitol in its present shape, with its gable ends out, with its dome looking as if a cannon ball had cut it off, and with everything at loose ends. I say no gentleman proposes to leave the Capitol standing in this way. Because you have not the money now, and because you never will have it unless some change is made in the revenue policy of the Government, is that any reason why we shall postpone the work on these buildings, if it is really neces- sary that they should be completed? It would be much cheaper for the Government to borrow the money, and pay the interest on it, than to allow the work to remain in its present condition. The loss, in consequence of dilapidation, sustained by the H. Rep. Odd 49 770 Documentary History of the Capitol. incomplete state of the buildings, will be more than the interest on the money it will require to complete them, if you have to borrow it. Now, my purpose is merely to call the attention of the committee to these facts. I want the committee and the country to understand that, unless you now appro- priate money for the public works of defense, and for the necessary public buildings which have been commenced, and which have been estimated for by the proper officers — I say, unless you appropriate the money to go on and complete them this year, you will have to do it next in the shape of a deficiency, or leave these works unfinished. I agree with the gentleman from Ohio, [Mr. Stanton,] that these works ought to be finished by this Administration. We do not want the incoming Adminis- tration that we are going to install on the 4th of March next, and which we intend shall be an economical and honest one, to be loaded down by the obligations incurred on the part of the Administration which will then go out of power. The amendment proposed by Mr. Hill was disagreed to. The amendment of the Senate was concurred in. Sixth amendment: For the prosecution of the work on the Capitol extension during the fiscal year ending the 30th June, 1861, the sum of 8300,000. The Committee of Ways and Means recommended non-concurrence in this amendment. Mr. Harms, of Maryland. I would like to know of the gentleman from Indiana, [Mr. Pettit,] or from some gentleman who can answer the question, what has become of the art commission authorized to be appointed by the President of the United States by the last Congress, which was to take charge of the further embellishment of the Capitol? The Chairman. Does the gentleman from Maryland submit an amendment? Mr. Harris, of Maryland. Yes, sir; I move to strike out $300,000. I merely want to know whether this money, if any of it is to be expended for works of art, is to be placed under the direction of this art commission? Mr. Beale. If the gentleman from Maryland will permit me, I will offer an amendment upon the very subject the gentleman is speaking of. Mr. Harris, of Maryland. Let the gentleman’s amendment be read. Mr. Beale. I propose to add to the amendment of the Senate the following proviso: Provided, That none of the money hereby appropriated shall he expended in the decoration and embellishment of the Capitol extension by sculpture or painting, or other works of illustrative art, unless the designs for the same shall have been approved by the art commission appointed by the President, May 15, 1859, in pursuance of acts of Congress of June 12, 1858, and March 3, 1859; but this provision shall not be so construed as to interfere with the completion and payment for works already begun by Crawford and Rogers. Mr. Harris, of Maryland. I am very glad my friend has put in that amendment; because it comes to the practical point of the suggestion I desire to make. I will withdraw my amendment, for the purpose of allowing him to offer his regularly. Before doing so, however, I wish to say one word. I am entirely opposed to any expenditure of money in connection with the ornamentation or completion of this Capitol’, unless there can be some guarantee that a more refined and cultivated taste is to be exercised in that completion than has, to a great extent, been shown in the work that has been done up to this point. There are portions of this building that reflect credit upon the country, and upon those who have had charge of the work; but there are other portions— and I am afraid much the larger portion— that are absolutely disreputable to everybody connected with the prosecution of the work on the Capitol, and to the nation itself. Why, sir, there are incongruities and absurdities carried out upon these walls, and upon the ceilings of many of the committee-rooms of this Capitol, that are, considering all the circumstances of the case and of the character of the building, about as inappropriate and ridiculous as could well be con- ceived of. / The Extensions. 771 Why, sir, the idea of the national uses of the building seems to have been foreign to the minds of those who have superintended these matters. Instead of the occasion being availed of to suggest, in the decoration of the building, incentives to patriotic sentiment, by renewing to the popular gaze the great achievements of the past — instead of reproducing here, in the fidelity of painting and sculpture, the great deeds and men of the better eras of the Republic — the whole building appears to have been delivered over to the gross and flashy conceits of second-rate German or Italian fresco painters, who have covered the walls of corridors and committee-rooms with inap- propriate designs of flowers and fruits, Yenuses, bacchantes, flying dragons with heads of chicken cocks, and curious combinations neither human, divine, mytholog- ical, nor allegorical. The Naval Committee room, upon the Senate side, is a curious illustration of this unfitness. Its designs are from the villas of Pompeii, or such as once glowed upon the walls of the palaces of Herculaneum. Many of these things are very prettily executed, I admit, but not in place or harmony with the Capitol of the American people. Now, sir, I am willing, and I have no doubt every gentleman here is, to appro- priate whatever amount is necessary for the completion of this Capitol in such a man- ner as shall be creditable to the whole country; but I do hope that we will spend no more money unless it be in connection with some such guarantee as is suggested by the amendment which my friend has just had read; and for the purpose of enabling him to submit his amendment in order, I now withdraw my amendment. Mr. Beale then submitted his amendment as an addition to theSenate amendment. Mr. Pettit. If gentlemen will turn to the thirty-sixth amendment of the Senate, which will be found on page 20 of the bill, they will find a section providing for the repeal of all existing laws creating an art commission. It will thus be seen that there is already a law upon upon this subject, and that this proposition of the gentleman from New York does not now, for the first time, propose art commissions. The present law on the subject is to be found in provisoes of the miscellaneous appropriation acts of 1858 and 1859, in which it is provided that no part of the appropriations made for the purpose of extending the Capitol shall be applied to paintings or statuary, except after designs for the purpose shall be first submitted to a commission of three dis- tinguished artists, appointed by the President, whose acceptance of them should afterwards be approved by the Joint Committee on the Library. That law the Senate has proposed to repeal; and I think perhaps the Senate has done well. I call the attention of the committee to the proviso which first created this art com- mission. It will be found on page 323 of the last volume of the Statutes at Large. It is as follows: Provided, That none of this appropriation shall be expended in embellishing any part of the Cap- itol extension with sculpture and paintings, unless the designs for the same shall have undergone the examination of a committee of distinguished artists, not to exceed three in number, to be selected by the President, and that the designs which said committee shall accept shall also receive the sub- sequent approbation of the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress; but this provision shall not be so construed as to apply to the execution of designs heretofore made and accepted from Crawford and Rogers. Up to this time the ornamentation of the Capitol had been left entirely under the control of the superintendent of the Capitol extension; but for some reason, satisfac- tory to itself, Congress, by these provisoes, meant to change it, so that, so far as paintings and statuary were concerned — not decorative painting and similar decora- tions, but painting in the sense of a fine art — nothing should be attempted except on the joint authority of a committee of artists and a committee of Congress. The law makes this very plain. These artists were to be appointed to examine designs, and when accepted, they were to submit these designs to a committee of Congress. They had nothing else to do, and could not do anything else under the law if they had wished to do so, but examine the designs and submit them to our committee. This required only an occasional duty, and not a perpetual commission. 772 Documentary History of the Capitol. The President, about the 1st of May, 1859, selected three artists, men honored and skillful in their professions. If they have examined any designs, I do not know it. They have certainly not submitted any to the Library Committee for approval; and so far as accomplishing the object proposed by the law is concerned, the subject is just where it was when these provisoes were passed. Not a thing has been done, except that in February last the Secretary of War transmitted to this House the report of these gentlemen, who do not say in it one word of what the law permitted them to do — namely, the examination of designs — but become discursive on a great many subjects, such as painting flat surfaces, the dissipating effect of gaudy colors on the thoughts of gentlemen given to thinking, the taste and economy of the superin- tendent of the Capitol, with an allusion to high art in coining money. Now, all this does no good. If this report were much larger, and its topics much more various, it is not one step advanced towards carrying out the law, which is, that they shall examine designs when submitted to them, and then refer their action to the committee. Yet it will cost the Government a good deal, for it is fair to suppose they will deserve to be paid while under a public appointment. It is because in its present form such a commission can do no good, while it entails expense, that I join in the recommendation to repeal these laws. Why have such a commission at this expense, when it has no duties to do? and why retain it in this shape, when it is shown already to be a part of a cumbrous machinery that cannot be made practical? Instead of conferring with the Library Committee, they now come in by their report, which has been published during this Congress, and which has been referred to already, and ask that their associates, made so by law, shall have no share in these functions, ami that they shall take exclusive control of this whole subject and apply appropriations in such manner as they choose. And before Congress has given con- sent to this change, and having no function except to examine designs, they proceed to make estimates for art purposes for the coming year at §66,900. That the com- mittee may see that I do them no injustice, I call their attention to the concluding portion of their report. It is as follows : The commissioners, finding their functions and powers not sufficiently defined by the acts of Congress of 1858 and 1859 to enable them to perform the duties contemplated in their appointment, would respectfully urge upon the attention of Congress the necessity of such further legislation as shall render the commission efficient and useful to the Government; which they believe can be best effected by clothing them with the authority recommended by the artists of the United States, in the following extract from their memorial to Congress in 1858: “Your memorialists respectfully urge that the great end proposed, namely, ‘the advancement of art in the United States,’ may be most surely and completely attained by the establishment of an art commission, composed of those designated by the united voice of American artists as competent to the office; who shall be accepted as the exponents of the authority and influence of American art; who shall be the channels for the distri- bution of all appropriations to be made by Congress for art purposes, and who shall secure to artists an intelligent and unbiased adjudication upon the designs they may present for the embellishment of the national buildings.” Mr. Chairman, for a period of five years Congress has not made an appropriation for these purposes up to the extent of §10,000; and yet it is proposed to have a per- petual and irresponsible commission of art chargeable upon the Treasury, receiving themselves a larger amount for salary than has been used for such purposes hereto- fore; when all experience shows, not only here but elsewhere, that civilians acting in such matters, without salary or reward, are at least quite as capable of administer- ing public means, and perhaps not far behind in those matters which pertain to the public taste. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Campbell. I move to increase the appropriation $1,000. I beg the attention of the committee while I briefly present to their consideration the present situation and origin of the art commission. It was found, previous to 1858, that while Con- gress was appropriating hundreds of thousands of dollars for the completion of the Capitol extension and the ornamentation of the building, that the rooms in the Cap- The Extensions. 773 itol were crowded with incompetent persons, of no taste or experience, calling them- selves artists, who were painting and defacing the walls, and great want of skill was apparent on all sides. There were exceptions, but they were decidedly the excep- tions to the general rule. In 1858 Congress, by an amendment placed upon an appropriation bill of that year, declared that no part of the fund appropriated for the Capitol extension should be used for the ornamentation of the building or grounds in matters of sculpture or painting, except by the direction and approval of art commissioners, to be appointed by the President; and that the designs for such works of art should be approved of by them. The artists of the United States assembled in general convention at Washington, and named three of their number to the President for appointment to the commission thus created: two eminent as painters, Messrs. Kensett and Lamden, and one equally distinguished as a sculptor, Mr. H. Iv. Brown. Upon this recom- mendation, the President appointed these three gentlemen to take charge of the ornamentation of the Capitol, the public grounds, and public buildings. They entered upon the duties of their commission, and they have been in session for upwards of one year. That they have not ordered or completed any work of art is because funds have not been placed at their disposal for that purpose. Further legislation, too, was required before they could proceed with the responsible trust confided to them. But they did examine the public buildings thoroughly and com- pletely in view of their artistical completion, and they made a full and able report upon the subject. They have adopted a design which, if carried out, will redound to the credit of the country, and add greatly to the beauty of this building, in which the Representatives of a great nation hold their sessions. The very object of appointing this art commission was to ornament and beautify the Capitol properly, and to save hundreds and thousands of dollars to the Treasury. Now we appro- priate money to anybody and everybody to gild and paint as they see proper, with taste or without taste, with experience or without it, as it may happen. 1 f gentle- men will look into the matter, they will find that the art commission recommended for the casting of the figure of “Freedom” in bronze, intended for the .dome of the Capitol, only one half of the amount which the Secretary of War has given out that work for, as I understand. Mr. Harris, of Maryland. I desire to say that I have heard that the Secretary of War has awarded the contract for casting the bronze figure for the apex of the dome at a price 515,000 higher than offers made by others who were competent to do the work. Is that true? Mr. Campbell. I only know the fact from common report. I know nothing pos- itively upon the subject. I only know, from report, that the model has been taken to pieces for the purpose of being put in bronze, at a high price; but by whose authority I know not. I am one of those persons who think that it is necessary to complete this great Capitol, and to complete it in a creditable manner. We cannot leave it to the destructive tendencies of the elements. We must finish its porticoes, and halls, and covering; and we want it to come up to or surpass the standard of the age. We want its adornments, its sculpture, and its painting, to be worthy of this nation, which it will, whether you intend it or not, in a great measure represent. I do not propose to spend money unnecessarily; but I want the money you do appropriate put under the charge of gentlemen of taste and experience, who will ornament the building in a manner calculated to reflect credit upon the American people. I desire further to say that, although these gentlemen have been discharging their duties for a year, and are, by your creation, Government officers, they have never received a cent for their services up to the present time. They are not pensioners upon the bounty of Congress; they have as much right to compensation as I have, or the Speaker who fills that chair. Let us, then, vote to-day for American art. A Documentary History of the Capitol. ■774 country like ours should do something for its encouragement. I trust the amend- ment proposed by the gentleman from New York [Mr. Beale] will be adopted. Mr. Reagan. We are now discussing a modification of an amendment relating to the law of last Congress creating this art commission. I have no desire to enter upon a discussion of the propriety of enacting that law; but when a proposition to amend that law arises, it is one which certainly deserves the consideration of those - wdio have to deal with it. I insist that this whole discussion of the law of Congress creating the art commission is out of order upon this amendment. The Chairman. Debate is now exhausted upon this amendment; and inasmuch as no further debate is in order, the point of order falls. Mr. Campbell, by unanimous consent, withdrew his amendment. The question recurred on Mr. John Cochrane’s amendment. Mr. Pettit. I desire to indicate here that I shall offer to the thirty-sixth amend- ment of the Senate the following: And that no money appropriated by this or any existing law shall be applied for paintings, statu- ary, or any other works of illustrative art, excepting the works of Crawford and Rogers, unless the objects and the amounts appropriated for the same be particularly expressed by law. Mr. Barksdale. I raise the point of order, that that changes existing law, and hence cannot be in order to an appropriation bill. The Chairman. The Chair holds that it is in order to limit and restrain the appli- cation of money which we appropriate. Mr. Barksdale. Why, sir, it changes existing law. The Chairman. The Chair holds it to be in order. Mr. Pettit. The thirty-sixth amendment repeals the law creating the art commis- sion. The amendment which I propose saves a part of the clause proposed to be repealed. Now, Mr. Chairman, I agree mainly with the remarks made by gentlemen here on all sides, in regard to the mode in which the Capitol has been receiving its deco- rations; but venturing this opinion at the same time with great diffidence. The principal fault lias been that where a large appropriation has been made, amounting sometimes to a million dollars, it has been inferentially supposed that the architect of this Capitol might employ a portion of it in statuary, painting, frescoing, and other work, as falling within and forming a part of the structure itself. That is, I apprehend, the only ground on ivhich the superintendent of the Capitol extension attempts to justify himself for doing this work. If the amendment which I propose be adopted, it will put a restraint upon such work. It was intended to be restrained by the law of last winter, and by the law of the preceding winter; but still the work goes on; and, in order to avoid any ambiguity or doubt on the subject in future, I propose this amendment. Beyond that, the art commission, acting with the Library Committee, which only meets while Congress is sitting, makes a complex machinery requiring the association of two foreign bodies to act on every subject, however unimportant, involving any question of the embellishment of the Capitol. The experience of the British Government, the experience of the French Government, and the experience, up to this time, of this Government, has demonstrated that civilians can, with some safety, if not with the greatest propriety, control this matter; and especially I submit that this thing should be left where it has been for a period of forty years, controlled by law and directed by those appointed from time to time in the two branches of the national Legislature. There is no occasion, I submit, for creating a commission to sit perpetually at a large expense. By the very text of the report referred to, the art commission themselves admit that we have not yet advanced to that point of time in art where the Capitol can receive its appropriate illustration. If this is correct, I ask, are they to receive their salaries, and to sit as a perpetual commission— sitting idly all the time — until fit children of genius have grown up The Extensions. 775 among us to full stature to enter on the execution of this work. Let me read what the commissioners say in their report : “None but pictures of the highest order should be admitted to places of such prominence. To acquire these, not only time, but the utmost care and deliberation are requisite. There can be no doubt of the ability of our artists to perform this work, but time should be given them for prepara- tion, both in fresco and' oil. Heretofore, they have been engaged, with few exceptions, on easel pictures, and it is impossible, at once, for them to adopt the style required in works of such magni- tude. ” Is it not better, Mr. Chairman, to wait till that time comes? There is nothing on which these gentlemen can he now employed until artists shall first have been born to us of such attainments and of such genius as, within their judgment, will make them competent to this work. Mr. John Cochrane. I do not exactly understand the propriety of the amendment offered by the gentleman from Indiana, [Mr. Pettit,] but I think I shall be quite safe in opposing it. Looking at the amendment proposed by the Senate, I am inclined to favor it. It reads, “for the prosecution of the work on the Capitol.” I should be determined to favor it, if it read, “for the prosecution of those who have imposed this work upon the Capitol.” [Laughter.] Sir, a more anomalous procedure than that which greets the eye in its every gaze, as it contemplates the work on these walls, never existed. As we enter here, it is very natural that the scenes which we encounter every day should be exhibited and enacted. Here, those who are engaged in debate encounter on every side the vermilion hue which excites the bull to the fight in Spain. [Laughter.] And when we have entered here, we find it the recep- tacle of those who, in imprisoned walls, do the work of their masters, and are not permitted to look on God’s creation, nor breathe the healthful air. It might be pre- sumed that the spirit of Cheops had designed it. And how are we entertained here? The artists give us a piece of gilding here, a parcel of red there; and see, in yonder corner, the effigy of General Washington — a gentleman clothed in a blue coat and yellow breeches, [laughter,] holding out his hand affectingly to another gentleman, who is intended to represent Cornwallis. And this is American art, with which we are to be thoroughly imbued; and lest we should not appreciate it, no horizontal current of air is permitted to visit us; but the light is directed from above — directed on that which is presumed to be the most benighted and dark region of the corporation of legislators here. And we are stim- ulated by applications of that description to our duties as legislators, and to a just appreciation of American art. Oh, no! sir. Italian art, introduced here from Rome, from Florence, or from any other place abroad, so long as it did not originate upon these American shores. Why, I recollect that a certain New England philosopher, I believe Ralph Waldo Emerson, exclaimed that in an Italian city, on a storm com- ing on and the rain beginning to penetrate, the whole of any street in that city would be a blaze of red umbrellas. It is so here. Italian taste has exhibited on every side of this Hall the vermilion hue of Italy, instead of the sober, sensible hue of American intellect. I am for this art commission — an art commission to be composed of American artists, or at least of gentlemen who, if not artists, are permitted to entertain American tastes. I would, too, that at some time or other we might be permitted to work out of these our prison walls into the pure air without; or at least, if not that, that these walls shall be extended until we can reach the outer air, and be permitted to see the sky beyond, and to be seen by our constituents. And until that time arrives; until we are permitted to sit as sober, tasteful American gentlemen, amid American scenes, and not as exaggerated American patriots under the influence of Italian art, we never shall have produced a congruous scene for American legislation. Mr. Pettit. I withdraw my amendment. The question was then taken on Mr. Beale’s amendment; and it was agreed to. 776 Documentary History of the Capitol. The question recurred upon the Senate amendment, as amended. Mr. Hughes. I propose to amend that amendment by adding §1,000 to the amount. My purpose is to correct a misapprehension, under which my colleague from the city of Baltimore labored, in regard to the casting of the statue to be placed upon the new dome. I understand, directly from official authority, that no contract has been made with any one for the purpose of casting that statue. An arrange- ment has been entered into with Mr. Clark Mills, to pay him §400 a month for his own services and that of his assistants, and for the use of his foundery, the Govern- ment itself furnishing the materials for the casting. I do not understand that there has been any arrangement in regard to the price to be paid for the statue itself. Mr. Curtis. Mr. Chairman, 1 have heard, with some regret, appeals made to the prejudices of the country in regard to the specimens of art taste displayed about this Capitol; and I have been surprised that no one connected with this branch of serv- ice has risen upon the floor to do justice to those who have devoted their lives and energies to the embellishment of our public buildings. I have seen a great deal of this love of criticism in the course of my life, and have often been a victim to it. It is very easy to invent a popular criticism and find fault; but I would like to see some of these gentlemen who are so conversant with matters of taste and art as to speak with the assurance of masters, bring forward some design, some specimen from their superior genius that they would themselves insert in place of that which they see around them. Now, I confess that I am no artist myself, but, at the same time, I have seen some specimens of both, inside and outside of this Capitol, and made such things a matter of some study; and when gentlemen have risen here to assail them, I have looked with anxiety to see when and where they would make their specifications. The gentleman from New York [Mr. John Cochrane] is the only one who has attempted to define his posi- tion. He has made special objection to an unfinished attempt at a picture in one corner of this room, which everybody knows is a failure, because it is unfinished, and is not a fair specimen of the art which is applied to this Capitol. But I undertake to say that, if you go into these committee-rooms, and these galler- ies, of which we have heard so much, and take any honorable and fair-minded artist with you, lie will himself do justice to the specimens of art that will be before him, and admit its distinguished worth. What, sir, can be more beautiful than the fresco work in the room of the Agricultural Committee? What more splendid than the fresco in some of the halls and passages around the Senate Chamber, and especially the emblem of Religion in the President’s room? And in this Hall, where do you find room to criticise the combination of colors which you see around you? Some gentlemen think that it is too glaring; some that it is too much imbued with vermilion, and others that it is too much shaded with the yellow. Would they have it all brown, or all blue? I suppose my friend from New AMrk is so fond of the national color that he would have the whole Ilall painted sky-blue! The gentleman says that this Hall will never be right until he can expand himself, and see the open air; and especially his constituents. My impression is that, unless he adopts a dif- ferent policy — a different line of politics — he will soon see his constituents without the necessity of extending the interior walls of this Chamber. [Laughter.] I believe that, among men of mind and of taste, all the work on this Capitol is suscep- tible of fair and honorable defense; and I regret to see these attempts to undervalue and denounce what men from abroad generally regard as a splendid specimen of American architecture. Mr. Sherman. Unless sve can have a vote at once upon this amendment of the Senate, I shall move that the committee do now rise for the purpose of closing debate. Mr. Hughes. I withdraw my amendment. The question was then taken on the Senate amendment, as amended; and it was concurred in. The Extensions. 777 [House proceedings of June 15, 1860: Congressional Globe, 30— 1, p. 3051.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration the Senate amendments to the sundry civil bill for 1861 — Thirty-sixth amendment: And be it further enacted , That all existing laws creating an art commission be, and the same are hereby, repealed. Mr. Pettit. I offer the following amendment, to come in at the end of the section: And that no money appropriated by this or any existing law shall be applied for paintings, stat- uary, or any other works of illustrative art, except for the works of Crawford and Rogers, unless the objects and the amounts appropriated for the same be expressed in the law. Mr. Sherman. Is that amendment in order? The Chairman. The Chair thinks it is not in order. Mr. Pettit. The Chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means is mistaken in regard to this; for it will be seen that, instead of its being a total repeal of these laws, it is a modified repeal. The Chairman. The Chair thinks it is out of order. Mr. Maynard. Is not the amendment of the Senate in direct contravention of the amendment which the Committee of Ways and Means has offered to the Senate amendment? The Chairman. The Committee of Ways and Means recommend non-concurrence with the amendment of the Senate. The question was taken on the Senate amendment; and it was not concurred in. [House proceedings of June 18, 1860: Congressional Globe, 36—1, p. 3135, 3137.] The House having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1861 — Mr. Sherman. I yield to the gentleman from Maryland now to offer an amendment. Mr. Harris, of Maryland. This is an amendment which I offer with the consent of parties interested in the section which it affects; and I suppose the House will let it pass. The amendment is as follows: And provided further , That the material of said columns shall be American marble. So that the clause will read: To enable the superintendent of the Capitol extension to purchase from Rice & Ileebner thirty- four monolithic columns, at the price specified in their supplemental contract of March 30, 1854, the marble for said columns to be approved by the said superintendent, the sum of 847,000: Provided. That no part of the sum appropriated for the prosecution of the work shall be applied to the purchase of marble columns: And provided further, That the material of said columns shall be American marble. Mr. Maynard. I ask the chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means to allow to be read a letter from the Secretary of War to the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings. Mr. Sherman. I must object to that; it would give rise to debate. I desire simply to have the previous question seconded, and then I will say one or two words. The previous question was seconded, and the main question ordered. * * * CIVIL APPROPRIATION bill. The House proceeded to the regular order of business, being the consideration of the amendments of the Senate to the civil appropriation bill. The Speaker pro tempore stated the pending question to be on agreeing to the fol- lowing amendment, reported by the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, to the third amendment of the Senate: * * * 778 Documentary History of the Capitol. Fifth amendment of the Senate, (on which a separate vote had been demanded:) To pay for labor on, and materials furnished for, the Capitol extension, 9153,601 74; and to enable the superintendent to take care of the marble which has been delivered, and of the shops occupied, and to lay the marble flooring of the porticoes, and to pay for the bronze doors, 948,920; and for con- tingencies of the Capitol extension, 92,300, making 9204,821 74, Mr. Quarles demanded the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were not ordered. Mr. Spaulding demanded tellers. Tellers were ordered; and Messrs. Quarles, and Howard of Ohio, were appointed. The House divided; and the tellers reported — ayes ninety-six, noesnot counted. So the amendment of the Senate was concurred in. Sixth amendment: For the prosecution of the work on the Capitol extension during the fiscal year ending the 30th June, 1861, the sum of 9300,000. The Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union recommended a concur- rence in the amendment, with an amendment to add at the end thereof, as follows: Provided , That none of the money hereby appropriated shall be expended for decoration or embel lishment of the Capitol extension, or for sculpture or paintings, or other works of illustrative art, unless the designs for the same shall have been approved by the art commission appointed by the President May 15, 1859. But nothing herein provided shall be so construed as to interfere with the completion of works already begun by Crawford and Rogers. Mr. Stevens, of Pennsylvania. What do the Committee of Ways and Means recommend in relation to this amendment? Mr. Sherman. They recommended non-concurrence. The amendment to the Senate amendment was agreed to. The question recurred on the Senate amendment, as amended. Mr. Gilmer called for the yeas and nays. Mr. Quarles called for tellers on the yeas and nays. Tellers were not ordered. The yeas and nays were not ordered. The amendment of the Senate, as amended, was concurred in — ayes 80, noes 30. Seventh amendment: To enable the superintendent of the Capitol extension to purchase from Rice & Heebner thirty- four monolithic columns, at the price specified in their supplemental contract of March 30, 1854, the marble for said columns to be approved by the said superintendent, the sum of 947,600: Provided, That no part of the sum appropriated for the prosecution of the work shall be applied to the purchase of marble columns. This amendment, before the previous question was called, Mr. Harris, of Mary- land, had moved to amend by adding as follows: Provided farther. That the material of said columns shall be American marble. Mr. Bonham. I desire to ask whether this contract is recommended by the Secre- tary of War? Mr. Phelps. It is not. Mr. Boteler. I call for the yeas and nays upon the amendment to the amendment. The yeas and nays were not ordered. The amendment to the Senate amendment was agreed to. Mr. Phelps moved to reconsider the vote by which the amendment to the amend- ment was adopted; and also moved to lay the motion to reconsider on the table. The latter motion was agreed to. Mr. Phelps called for the yeas and nays on concurring in the amendment of the Senate, as amended. Mr. Bonham called for tellers on the yeas and nays. Tellers were ordered; and Messrs. Phelps and Carter were appointed. The Extensions. 779 The House divided; and the tellers reported — ayes 34, noes 74. So (one fifth having voted in the affirmative) the yeas and nays were ordered. Mr. Clark, of New York. I am satisfied that that amendment has been improperly reported. As it reads, it contradicts itself. It provides that the columns shall be purchased, and it provides that they shall not be purchased. The Speaker pro tempore. The Chair will state that the provision that no part of the appropriation for the prosecution of the work shall be applied to the purchase of marble columns, he presumes, refers te the sixth amendment of the Senate. Mr. Phelps. It is not for us to construe the Senate amendments. They are reported as separate amendments. The question was taken; and it was decided in the affirmative — yeas 81, nays 80; * * * So the amendment of the Senate, as amended, was concurred in. [Senate proceedings of June 19, 1860: Congressional Globe, 36 — 1, p. 3145.] CIVIL APPROPRIATION BILL. Mr. Toombs. I move now to take up the miscellaneous appropriation bill. The motion was agreed to; and the Senate proceeded to consider the action of the House of Representatives upon the amendments of the Senate to the bill (PI. R. No. 501) making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government, for the year ending the 30th of June, 1361. * * * The Secretary read the sixth amendment of the Senate, which was to insert: For the prosecution of the work on the Capitol extension, during the fiscal year ending the 30th of June, 1861, the sum of $300,000. The amendment of the House is to add to it: Provided, That none of the money hereby appropriated shall be expended in the decoration and embellishment of the Capitol extension by sculpture or painting, or other works of illustrated art, unless the designs for the same shall have been approved by the art commission, appointed by the President May 15, 1859, in pursuance of acts of Congress of June 12, 1858, and March 3, 1859; but this proviso shall not be so construed as to interfere with the completion and payment for works already begun by Crawford and Rogers. Mr. Toombs. I move to non-curcur in that. The House amendment was non-concurred in. The Secretary read the seventh amendment of the Senate, which was to insert: To enable the superintendent of the Capitol extension to purchase from Rice & Heebner thirty-four monolithic columns, at the price specified in their supplemental contract of March 30, 1854, the marble for said columns to be approved by said superintendent, the sum of $47,600: Provided, That no part of the sum appropriated for the prosecution of the work shall be applied to the purchase of marble columns. The House amendment is to add: And provided farther, That the material of said columns shall be American marble. Mr. Green. While I am in favor of the amendment of the House, I move that the Senate non-concur, because I think a committee of conference can put the whole of it in a better shape than it now is. The Senate amendment, I think, is very objec- tionable; and I want a means of reaching it, so as to put it in a shape that will be satisfactory to all. I do not like this way of Congress making contracts; yet the Senate put in the bill an amendment for two individuals. Though the House has improved it, and so far as the mere abstract question is concerned, I would vote for the House amendment, because it confines it to domestic marble, marble of our own 780 Documentary History of the Cajpitol. country, which I think right; because we have a good material, and we can supply the wants and make as beautiful a building here as with Parian marble or Italian marble; yet we cannot reach the Senate amendment without disagreeing to the House amendment. Therefore I hope we shall disagree to the House amendment; although, if you determine to stand by the original Senate amendment, I would vote for the House amendment to it. The House amendment was non-concurred in — ayes twenty-seven, noes not counted. [House proceedings of June 20, 1860: Congressional Globe, 36 — 1, p. 3199.] CIVIL APPROPRIATION BILL. Mr. Sherman. I desire to report from the committee of conference on the bill No. 501, making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the year ending 30th June, 1861. There was a very large number of disagreeing votes on this bill, and, as a matter of course, a great variety of questions have been brought before the committee of conference. * * * The Senate agree to the House amendment limiting the appropriation for the completion of the Capitol to the work necessary to complete the building, excluding painting and sculpture. In connection with that amendment, the House is recommended to concur with the Senate amendment abolishing the art commission. This was done by a majority of the committee; one of the members of the committee [Mr. Bingham] dissenting from the abolition of the art commission. The effect of the amendment is to confine the expenditure of the §300,000 for the Capitol extension simply to complete the building, and excluding the expenditure of any money for painting or sculpture. As, therefore, there will be no employment for the art commission next year, it is suspended or abolished. The Senate concur with the House amendment to amendment number eight, relating to marble columns, inserting the words “American marble” in the proper place; so that the amendment is now, I suppose, grammatical. * * * The Senate recedes from its amendments from forty to forty-five, in regard to the extension of the Capitol grounds; and the House agrees to an amendment which provides for ascertaining the probable cost of the grounds embraced within the pro- posed extension, and to report to Congress, at its next session, a plan for extending the Capitol grounds. It makes no appropriation. * * * This House * * * rejected the appropriation for the Capitol extension, until the public Treasury was in a better condition. * * * [From the “ Act making Appropriations for sundry Civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty-one,” approved June 25, 1860. (Stats, at Large, v. 12, pp. 105-6.)] To pay for labor on, and materials furnished for, the Capitol extension, one hun- dred and fifty-three thousand six hundred and one dollars and seventy-four cents; and to enable the superintendent to take care of the marble which has been deliv- ered, and of the shops occupied, and to lay the marble flooring of the porticos and to pay for the bronze doors, forty-eight thousand nine hundred and twenty dollars; and for contingencies of the Capitol extension, twenty-three hundred dollars, making two hundred and four thousand eight hundred and twenty-one dollars and seventy- four cents. For the prosecution of the work on the Capitol extension during the fiscal year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty-one, the sum of three The Extensions. 781 hundred thousand dollars: Provided, That none of the money hereby appropriated shall be expended in the decoration and embellishment of the Capitol extension by sculpture or painting, or other works of illustrated art. To enable the superintendent of the Capitol extension to purchase from Rice and Heebner thirty-four monolithic columns of American marble at the price specified in their supplemental contract of March thirty, eighteen hundred and fifty-four, the marble for said columns to be approved, by the said superintendent, the sum of forty- seven thousand six hundred dollars: Provided , That no part of the aforesaid sum of three hundred thousand dollars appropriated for the prosecution of the work shall be applied to the purchase of marble columns. -x- -x- * For fixtures for gas, and furniture, for the committee, office, and other rooms and apartments, in the north wing of the Capitol, as directed by the resolution of the Senate of thirtieth March, eighteen hundred and sixty, nineteen thousand four hundred dollars, to be expended under the direction of the Committee to audit and control the contingent expenses of the Senate. [Report of Capt. W. B. Franklin, in charge of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 6, 1860. (36—2, Senate Ex. Doc. No. 1, V. 2, p. 172.)] REPORT ON THE CAPITOL EXTENSION. Office United States Capitol Extension, Washington, November, 6, 1860. Sir: I have the honor to make the following report upon the operations of the past year in the construction of the Capitol extension. I was ordered to take charge of the work on November 1, 1859, and found, when I entered upon the duties, that it would very soon be necessary to suspend work on account of the exhaustion of the appropriation. During the season of 1859, there- fore, the only work done, after October 1, was the completion of the change of seats in the Hall of Representatives, the completion of an alteration changing the method of introducing air into the Senate Chamber and galleries, the laying of the exterior marble arcades, and the placing of two marble platforms of the arcades of the con- necting corridors. The fourth bronze stairway railing was received and placed, and sundry skylights of ornamental glass were received and set. The heating apparatus of the north wing was completed and turned over to the Senate. Work was suspended upon the building from December 1, 1859, until July 1, 1860. A few men were employed at the marble sawmill in getting marble ready for the platforms of the arcades, but no work was done on the building, except some painting in the corridors. Congress, at its last session, having appropriated money specifically for thirty-four monolithic marble columns of American marble, to lie purchased from Rice & Heeb- ner, the contractors, according to the terms of their contract, and the department having, on August 16 last, authorized me to procure them, on August 18 I gave them the order for the thirty-four columns. At this date sixteen columns have been delivered, fifteen of which have been received. All of these will be cut during the present season, and it is likely that eight or ten of them will be in place by the first of January. Those already delivered are from Connolly’s quarry in Baltimore county, Maryland, and their appearance when cut is better than had been anticipated. I do not know whether the contractors are making efforts to get columns from any other quarries, but it is still an open question whether the Baltimore county quarry will supply the whole number required. The quarrymen are now at work on the twenty-second column. 782 Documentary History of the Capitol. The whole number of columns (100) should be delivered during this fiscal year and the next, or the completion of the work will be delayed. If the whole number be delivered in this time, there is, I think, no doubt that the Capitol extension will be completed by the end of the fiscal year ending June 30, 1863, provided the necessary appropriations are made. The platforms of the porticoes have all been laid during the past year, and they are now ready for the reception of the column pedestals. The contractors for marble cutting have been also engaged in cutting the exterior steps, and the architraves, friezes, and ceilings of the exterior porticoes. These will be ready for use by the time the columns which are to support them will be placed. The marble skirting and paneling of the upper flights of the four stairways have been placed, and these beautiful pieces of marble work are now finished. The iron ceilings of these stairways have been completed. The foundations of all the exterior granite steps have been built, and the steps on the northeast and south fronts have been placed. On account of the great depth of made ground on the west front, it has been considered best to lay the steps for that front loosely upon the foundations, in order that the walls, being at once subjected to nearly all of the weight they will ever have to bear, may settle before the steps are permanently laid. The foundations of the marble steps of the eastern porticoes have been laid. On account of the great depth of the made ground about the north wing, the excavation for the foundation of the steps of its eastern portico had to go down about twenty feet, involving great expense and much time. The plastering of all of the committee rooms has been finished, and all of the paint- ing of doors and window sash and frame has been completed on the principal and attic stories, and on part of the basement story. No painting, except the finishing of some corridor painting previously authorized by law, and ordinary ornamental wall painting, has been done under the head of ornamental painting since the adjournment of Congress. A small specimen of the manner of finishing the corridors and rooms connected with them in the vicinity of the two halls has been painted and gilded to show the style. It is for Congress to decide whether this or a plainer style of ornamentation shall be adopted, or whether the corridors shall be left in their present condition. If they are so left they will soon be defaced and made unsightly by mischievous persons. By the existing law, no style of ornamentation which involves the painting of figures illustrating any sub- ject can be adopted, and as the ceilings and walls have been laid out with reference to such painting, unsightly blanks are necessarily left. The rooms over the connecting corridors are now getting fitted up with iron ceil- ings, skylights, and wooden shelves. They are to be used for document rooms for the two houses, and will be ready for use at or near the commencement of the next session. All of the floors of the building are finished, except that of the eastern vestibule of the north wing, which it is contemplated to lay in marble tile. Air-ducts for ventilating the rooms in the basement of the south wing, the cloak rooms, and galleries of the Hall of Representatives have been made. These ducts or flues had been left unfinished, although the rooms have been some time in use. The bronze door ordered from Mr. Randolph Rogers, I have been informed by him, is three fourths completed, and will soon be entirely finished. He reports the work as done entirely to his satisfaction. Arrangements have been made with Mrs. Crawford for the completion of the two bronze doors ordered from the late Mr. Thomas Crawford, sculptor, her husband. The studies and sketches of these doors in clay were complete when Mr. Crawford died, and it is a subject of congratulation that Mrs. Crawford has undertaken to superintend their construction. The Extensions. 783 During the past winter two marble statues of Justice and History, intended to be placed above the main door of one of the eastern porticos, were received at the Capi- tol. They are by Crawford, and are beautiful figures. They have been deposited in the old Hall of Representatives for storage until the portico is ready to receive them. The House of Representatives, on February 21, last, passed the following resolution: Resolved , That the Superintendent of the Capitol Extension he directed to remove the present benches from the Hall, and replace the old chairs and desks, adopting substantially the original arrangement thereof, but having regard to any reduction of space occupied by them, without inter- fering with the convenience of the arrangement. In obedience to this order, I was authorized bv you to take steps to make the required change at once, but the House did not, during the remainder of the session, adjourn over long enough to permit the alteration to be made. It was commenced, however, immediately after the the adjournment of Congress, and is now completed. As it was decided by the department that the expenditure on this account was not a proper charge against the appropriation for the Capitol extension, an accurate account of the expenses has been kept, to be presented to the House for payment immediately after the session commences. The mechanics and laborers employed on the alteration have done the work on credit, relying upon Congress to pay their wages. In July last, the levels of all the corners of the two wings of the capitol extension were taken. It appears from the levels, that at the top of the granite basement courses the west side of the south wing is 4^ inches lower than the east side; and at corresponding points in the north wing, the west side is 2-J inches lower than the east side. These figures are given, not because any danger to the building is anticipated, but in order to place the data on record in a permanent form. The same measurements were made in October, and the same figures were obtained. There have been received, during the past year, 11,542 cubic feet of Lee marble, costing $22,853.16; and 172-^f cubic feet of Italian marble, costing $515.28. The whole quantity of marble received at the building to September 30, 1860, is, for exterior, 412,074^ cubic feet of Lee marble, costing $720,412.63; for interior, 15,409J cubic feet of Lee marble, costing $28,716.31; 22 interior columns, costing $4,400; and 10 exterior columns, costing $14,000. The whole quantity of Italian marble received to September 30, 1860, is 28,474 cubic feet, costing $79,660. Of Tennessee marble, 9,830 cubic feet, costing $66,021 97, have been received. The tables given below show the disposition of the expenditures made during the past year. The amount paid, during the year, for marble work, is $66,405 07, making the total amount paid for this work to September 30, 1860, $1,273,033 24. The total number of bricks used, during the year, is 395,533, making the total number used in the building to September 30, 1860, 18,S02,882. The number of barrels of cement used, during the past year, is 2,311; and the whole number used on the building to September 30, 1860, is 45,251. * -x- -x- ■ _ Cash account. Amount available September 30, 1859 $94, 171 67 Appropriated May 24, 1860 3, 700 00 Appropriated June 25, 1860 552, 421 74 556,121 74 650, 293 41 Expended in year ending September 30, 1860 294, 794 20 Available October 1, 1860 355,499 21 All of which will be expended by June 30, 1861. The appropriation required for the service of the fiscal year ending June 30, 1862, is $500,000. 784 Documentary History of the Capitol. I have appended to this report a table showing the amounts of expenditure for materials and work upon the United States Capitol extension from the commence- ment of the work in 1851 to June 30, 1860. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Hon. John B. Floyd, W. B. Franklin, Captain of Topographical Engineers in Charge. Secretary of 1 Yar. i [House proceedings of Feb. 28, 1861: Congressional Globe, 36 — 2, p. 1297.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration the Senate amendments to the Sundry Civil bill for 1862 — Twenty-ninth amendment: For the Capitol extension, 8250,000. The Committee of Ways and Means recommended non-concurrence. Mr. Maynard. I propose, before concurring or non-concurring, to offer an amend- ment to the Senate amendment in the shape of the proviso which has been attached to this appropriation for several years. It is the same policy which has been urged heretofore and settled by the House, and I will not take up time by going over the argument again. I offer the following amendment to the amendment: Provided , None of the money hereby appropriated shall be expended in the decoration and embel- lishment of the Capitol extension, for sculpture or painting, except the same shall be approved by the art commissioners appointed under the act approved 12th of June, 1858, in the manner stated in said act; but this proviso shall not be so construed as to interfere with the completion and payment of the work already begun by Crawford & Rogers, or the completion of rooms in the north wing, already painted. Mr. Sherman. Is the amendment in order? The Chairman. The Chair thinks it is. Mr. Mavnard. I desire to state that I concur with the Committee of Ways and Means in their recommendation to non-concur in the Senate amendment. But if that amendment should be concurred in, then I want to have this proviso attached to it — the same as has been attached to this appropriation for several years. Mr. Maynard’s amendment to the amendment was agreed to. The Senate amendment, as amended, was non-concurred in. [House proceedings of Mar. 2, 1861: Congressional Globe, 36 — 2, p. 1421.] CIAHL APPROPRIATION BILL. Mr. Davis, of Maryland. I am instructed to submit the following report of the committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses on the civil appropriation bill. * * & * The committee agreed that the appropriations made by the Senate to continue the work upon the Capitol and the Treasury buildings should stand as in the Senate amendment; because the Government is bound by contracts for materials, which they must comply with; and it is really cheaper to continue the works than to arrest them, and be liable to damages or reclamation by the contractors. * * * I believe that covers the material points in the report; and I now demand the pre- vious question on its adoption. The previous question was seconded, and the main question ordered; and, under the operation thereof, the report was adopted. Mr. Davis, of Maryland, moved to reconsider the vote by which the report was adopted; also moved that the motion to reconsider be laid upon the table. The latter motion was agreed to. The Extensions. 785 [From the “Act making Appropriations for sundry Civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending June thirty, eighteen hundred and sixty-two,” approved Mar. 2, 1361. (Stats, at Large, v. 12, 219.)] For the Capitol extension, two hundred and fifty thousand dollars. [Annual report of Capt. M. C. Meigs, Superintendent of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 26, 1861. (37— ,2 Senate Ex. Doc. No. 1, v. 2, p. 77.)] REPORT OF OPERATIONS UPON CAPITOL EXTENSION, &C. November 26, 1861. By order of the Hon. J. Holt, Secretary of War, of 27th February, 1861, 1 resumed the charge of the Capitol extension, new dome, and Post Office extension, from which I had been relieved by order of the then Secretary of War, Mr. John B. Floyd, of the 1st November, 1859. The outbreak of the rebellion, calling for all the resources of the nation to preserve its existence, made it necessary to suspend works not of absolute necessity, and the force employed upon these public buildings by the United States was reduced to a minimum needed for the preservation of the buildings, the materials and property, and the official papers, accounts, and records of the office. Debts due were paid off as far as possible with the funds which I found available. The expenditure since I resumed charge of the works has been: For Capitol extension \ 861, 509. 80 * * * Having been called upon, about the 1st of April, to occompany a military expedi- tion to the Gulf of Mexico, I, with the consent of the government, appointed Captain (now Lieutenant Colonel) J. N. Macomb, United States corps of topographical engi- neers, my attorney, to act in my place until I could again give personal attention to these works. I am under great obligations to him for the care, fidelity, and intelli- gence with which he has discharged the trust thus committed to him. The condition of the buildings may be briefly stated as follows: The main body of the wings of the Capitol is completed, except the erection of parts of the balustrade over the cornice and the erection of the colonnades and steps. The building has been in use for some years, and has realized all that I undertook to accomplish in regard to light, warmth, ventilation, and fitness for debate and legislation. The health of the legislative bodies has been better, more business has been accomp- lished in the same time than in the old halls, and when order is preserved, there is no difficulty in either of the legislative chambers in hearing any speaker of moderate voice and tolerable articulation even when the galleries are densely crowded. The debates preceding the outbreak of the rebellion attracted crowds of the people to the spacious galleries, where they were able to hear the words of those who then debated the greatest questions discussed in our Congress since the revolution. Information has reached me of the completion at Munich of the bronze doors by R igers. The Capitol extension was at one time used as quarters for troops. The little injury done by them to the walls has been repaired by the authorities to whose care the finished portion of the building had been transferred. The entire expenditure during the year ending 30th September, 1861, for the Capitol extension has been 8251, 891. 97 * * * No appropriation is asked for the Capitol extension or new dome, both of which are advanced sufficiently to be completely in use. 1 cannot recommend that at a II. Rep. 046 50 Documentary History of the Capitol. 786 time when the nation is borrowing money to preserve its existence, this borrowed money should be applied to completing the decorative construction alone of this great building. * * * Respectfully submitted. Hon. Simon Cameron, Secretary of War. M. C. Meigs, Superintenaent. The following are the cash accounts of the different works. CAPITOL EXTENSION. Amount available October 1, 1860 1355, 499. 21 Amount appropriated since February 19, 1861 2, 500. 00 Amount appropriated since March 2, 1861 250, 000. 00 607, 999. 21 Amount expended to September 30, 1861 251, 891. 97 Amount available October 1, 1861 356, 107. 24 * * * Table showing the amounts and divisions of expenditure for materials and work upon the United Stales Capitol extension from the commencement of the work in 1851 to September 30, 1861. Object of expenditure. Material. Labor. Total. $33, 804. 78 95, 384. 28 43, 187. 58 118, 073. 60 349, 733. 80 253, 154. 66 1,005, 280.60 $40, 394. 22 240, 037. 98 18, 688. 71 4, 183. 79 $74, 199. 00 335, 422. 26 61, 876 . 29 Heating and ventilating 122' 257. 39 188,044.49 261, 679. 44 537, 778. 29 514, 834. 10 2. 536, 396. 94 610, 436. 97 1, 530, 116. 34 371,250. 92 239, 186. 05 3, 558. 86 54, 790. 93 58', 349. 79 51, 339. 46 106, 371. 88 761. 89 39, 221. 77 67, 150. 11 121, 836. 17 19, 652. 59 151.72 21,606.26 143! 442. 43 Plumbing, gas, and water fixtures Tiling 73 ; 344. 33 153, 985. 54 22, 782. 82 92, 996, 92 154, 137. 26 81,278.71 7, 224. 66 58, 495. 89 7, 224. 66 96! 213. 42 96! 572. 77 5, 860. 04 221. 54 6; 081. 58 52, 334. 00 55, 055. 65 11,754.11 1,333.94 52, 334. 00 25, 504. 42 4, 162. 88 29,551.23 7,591.23 412. 88 921. 06 70,521.03 887. 76 70, 521. 03 22, 429. 89 23, 317. 65 139,204. 37 129, 240. 47 9, 963. 90 2, 641, 544. 93 3, 303, 172. 52 5, 944, 717. 45 Respectfully submitted. November 26, 1861. M. C. Meigs, Superintendent. [From the annual report of Caleb B. Smith, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 30, 1861. (37 — 2, Senate Ex. Doc. No. 1, v. 1, p. 455.)] The occupation of the Capitol during the past summer by portions of the volunteer 'forces, necessarily caused some injury, which will require more than the ordinary appropriations for repairs. The Extensions. 787 The old portion of the building needs outside painting, as well to give uniformity of appearance to the whole, as to protect it from decay. A portion of the basement of the building is now used as a bakery for the Army. Although this may be submitted to for a time as a military necessity, it ought not to be permitted any longer than absolute necessity will require. Immediate provision should be made to transfer this useful branch of industry to some other locality, where it may be conducted without injury to the national Capitol or annoyance to its occupants. [Senate proceedings of Dec. 17, 1861: Congressional Globe, 37 — 2, p. 110.] BAKERY AT THE CAPITOL. Mr. Foot submitted the following resolution; which was considered by unanimous consent, and agreed to: Resolved, That the Commissioner of Public Buildings be instructed to inform the Senate by whose direction, and under what authority, a portion of the national Capitol has been converted into a baking establishment for the Army; and also to inform the Senate of the nature and extent of the injury, if any, to the Capitol building and grounds, and what will be the cost of repairing such injury; and also whether any existing exigency requires the continuance of such baking establish- ment in the Capitol. [Senate Mis. Doc. No. 8, 37th Congress, 2d Session. Report of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, in answer to a resolution of the Senate of the 17th instant, relative to the baking establishment in the Capitol and Capitol grounds. Dec. 23, 1861. — Referred to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, and ordered to be printed.] Office of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, Capitol of the United States, Washington City, December 21, 1861. Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt, on the 17th instant, of a resolu- tion of the Senate, instructing me “to inform the Senate by whose direction and under what authority a portion of the national Capitol has been converted into a baking establishment for the army; and also to inform the Senate of the nature and extent of the injury, if any, to the Capitol building and grounds, and what will be the cost of repairing such injury; and also whether any existing exigency requires the continuance of such baking establishment in the Capitol.” On the 18th instant I addressed a letter to the Secretary of War, covering a copy of the resolution, from which the following is an extract: The Capitol having been converted into a baking establishment for the army while in charge of one of my predecessors in this office, I have no personal knowledge by whose direction and under what authority it was done, nor do the records or files of this office furnish me with any information on the subject. I have been informed, however, by Lieutenant Cate, who had charge of the labor of converting it, that it was done under and by direction of the War Department. Will you be pleased to give me such information, at your earliest convenience, as you can, to enable me to answer fully the requirements of the Senate resolution? To this letter I have this day received a reply, which I transmit herewith, (marked A, ) which gives all the required information touching the question “ by whose direc- tion and under what authority a portion of the national Capitol has been converted into a baking establishment for the army?” To ascertain the extent of the injury to the Capitol building and grounds, and what will be the cost of repairing such injury, I directed my general superintendent to make an examination and estimate, and to report to me as soon as possible, which he did, and his letter (marked B) is transmitted herewith. in connexion with this part of my reply, it is proper that I should say that, in a letter addressed to me by the librarian of Congress, John G. Stephenson, esq., in 788 Documentary History of the Capitol. relation to another matter, he uses the following language: “lam pained to see a treasure intrusted to my care — a treasure that money cannot replace — receiving great damage from the smoke and soot that penetrate everywhere through that part of the Capitol which is under my charge, without any means at my command to prevent it. I am now satisfied that there is no remedy, except in the removal of the circle of bak- eries that hems us in, and of those directly under the library.” From this it will be seen that a much longer continuance of the bakeries will very much injure, if not ruin, the vast and valuable collection of books in the library of Congress, which has cost so much money and is of such immense value to the govern- ment. In relation to the existing exigency requiring a continuance of the baking estab- lishment, it is impossible for me to judge. The proper officer of the W ar Department has expressed his views that “it is possible to remove the bakeries at the Capitol, but it is not practicable.” He speaks of the very great cost, of the “much time” that “would necessarily be required to construct and perfect the masonry, to lay water and gas pipes,” &e. I have been informed from a reliable source that the cost of putting up the bakery in the Capitol was $8,400; and as, by proper economy, much of the material now in use can be used elsewhere, the expense of transfer cannot be very great. The bakery, as it now is, can be used until a portion of the new ovens are ready. As soon as the new ovens can be used, some of the old ones can be dispensed with, taken down, and transferred; so that the operation of baking will not be delayed a moment, and much of the old material can be worked into the new ovens. This I am informed by a practical man can be done. The old gas-house, directly west of the Capitol, and in a much more convenient position than the Capitol for a bakery, can, I am told, be rented at a low rate, and is admirably adapted to the wants of the army as a bakery. It contains two large rooms, each one hundred and thirty-six feet long, and one of them fifty-eight feet wide, the other fifty-three feet wide. A passage way for wagons thirty feet wide runs between them, passes around one of them, and out into the street along the outside of it, affording the utmost convenience for delivering and taking away mate- rial. Water and gas are now conveyed to the building, so that no delay on that account will be caused. In my opinion, a single week will suffice to convert that building so far into a bakery as that, baking can be commenced therein. I enclose a rough diagram of the gas-liouse, which will show its appropriateness for the pur- poses indicated. As regards so much of the letter from the War Department as states “that the rooms now used for the bakery in the Capitol could be used for no other proper purpose, and that no injury has been done to the Capitol building,” I have only to say that those rooms were used for committee rooms and offices up to the time that the Capitol extension became tenan table, and some of them long afterward; that they made very comfortable business rooms; and, as evidence that they are now wanted for legitimate legislative purposes, I will state that it is not many days since the Sergeant-at-arms of the Senate called on me and requested me to furnish rooms for committees of the Senate, there not being enough in the north wing to accommo- date them; which, for the want of these very rooms, I could not do. To the statement that no injury has been done, I have only to refer to the esti- mate for repairs ! I am, with high respect, your obedient servant, B. B. French, Commissioner of Public Buildings. Hon. Hannibal Hamlin, Vice-President of the United States. The Extensions. 789 A. Letter and enclosure from the War Department to the Comm issioner of Public Buildings in relation to the bakeries in the Capitol. War Department, December 19, 1861. Sir: In answer to your communication of the 18t,h instant, in reference to the bakery at the national Cajntol, I have the honor to transmit herewith the report received from the commissary general, to whom the subject was referred. Very respectfully, Thomas A. Scott, Acting Secretary of War. B. B. Frencit, Esq., Commissioner of Public Buildings, Washington, D. C. Washington, D. C. , December 19, 1861. Colonel: I am in possession of the letter of the Commissioner of Public Buildings to the Hon. Secretary of War, in relation to the Capitol bakery, which was referred to me this morning. In reply thereto, I will state that the Capitol building was occupied some time last spring under the authority of Lieutenant General Scott, and, as I understood at the time, by the express permission of the President. About ten thousand troops were congregated in the Capitol building, and General Irwin McDowell was placed in command of them and the building. A large supply of commissary stores were placed in the basement, bakeries were erected, and arrange- ments made to barricade the building to provide against an attack. I am of the opinion that no special authority was obtained from any one to erect the bakeries, but the authority was incident and belonged to the officers commanding the troops who were placed in the building for its defence. There has been from time to time additional ovens erected to meet the wants of the troops. It is possible to remove the bakeries at the Capitol, but it is not prac- ticable. The cost of erecting a bakery, with the appurtenances of the bakery at the Capitol, would be very great, and much time would necessarily be required to con- struct and perfect the masonry, to lay water and gas-pipes, and by the time all this could be accomplished the necessity for the bakery at the Capitol will probably have ceased by the advance of the troops. I think proper to state that the rooms now used for the bakery in the Capitol could be used for no other proper purpose, and that no injury has been done to the Capitol building. I think proper to state that- portions of many of the public buildings are used for various purposes by the troops — the treasury for bakeries; the General Post Office for an issuing storehouse. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. Beckwith, Major and Commissary of Subsistence. Colonel J. P. Taylor, Commissary General of Subsistence U. S. Army. 790 Ifocumentary History of the Capitol. B. Estimate of R. II. Stewart, general superintendent , of cost of repairing the Capitol in con- sequence of the introduction of the baking establishment. Washington, December SO, 1861. Sir: In accordance with your directions, that I should submit to you an estimate of what it will cost to repair the injury to the Capitol and Capitol grounds caused by converting the Capitol into a bakery for the army, I submit the following: To repair the injury to the grounds, walks, steps, stone work, &c $5, 000 Painting the rooms now occupied by the bakery 1, 000 Carpenters’ work in the same 1, 000 Plastering and whitewashing 500 For cleaning rooms, &c 300 Respectfully, yours, B. B. French, Esq., Commissioner. 7,800 R. H. Stewart, General Superintendent, C. P. B. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 5, 1862: Congressional Globe, 37—2, p. 1072.] CAPITOL EXTENSION. Mr. Foot. The Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, some time ago, reported a joint resolution, in pursuance of a resolution of inquiry on the subject, referred to that committee, proposing a transfer of the superintendency of the Cap- itol extension from the War to the Interior Department. I should like to make a few words of explanation in connection with that resolution. I move to postpone all prior orders and proceed to its consideration. It will occupy but little time. The motion was agreed to; and the joint resolution (S. No. 50) transferring the supervision of the Capitol extension, and the erection of the new dome, to the Department of the Interior, was read the second time, and considered as in Commit- tee of the Whole. The resolution transfers the supervision of the Capitol extension and the erection of the new dome from the War Department to the Department of the Interior, and directs that all unexpended money which has been heretofore appropriated, and all money which may be hereafter appropriated for either of those improvements, shall be expended under the direction and supervision of the Secre- tary of the Interior. Mr. Foot. Mr. President, a very brief statement of facts is all that I shall attempt at this time, and which, I think, will be sufficient to satisfy the Senate of the importance, and even of the necessity, of the change proposed by this joint resolu- tion. This resolution, coming from the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, merely proposes to transfer the superintendency of the work upon the Capitol exten- sion and upon the dome from the War Department, where it is now lodged, to the Department of the Interior, where it was originally placed. It remained under the Department of the Interior until the accession of Mr. Pierce to the Presidency, and of Jefferson Davis to the head of the War Department, in March, 1853. It was immediately, and within the first month of that Administration, transferred from the Department of the Interior to the Department of War, and has continued there ever since, covering the entire terms of the administration of Mr. Pierce and of Mr. Buchanan, and of their Secretaries of War, Jefferson Davis and John B. Floyd; with how much advantage or disadvantage to the Government, or with how much of economy or of extravagance, I do not now undertake to say, or even to consider. It is sufficient to say that, under this military superintendency, after eight years of The Extensions. 791 time, and after the expenditure of some six or seven millions of dollars, the work was left unfinished upon the hands of the present Administration. Soon after the accession of Mr. Lincoln to the Presidency, and upon the outbreak of the rebellion, and the consequent and exclusive occupation of the War Department in the military operations of the country, the work was suspended. It has not since been resumed, except for a few months upon the dome by the joint recommendation of the chair- men of the Committees on Public Buildings and Grounds of the two Houses, approved by the President himself, and for which, as yet, the contractor has received no compensation. Mr. President, I beg leave to say here, and to be understood, that the proposed change is urged upon no ground and for no reason which, in the slightest degree, reflects upon the War Department. I will take occasion to say further, that no man at this day commands a larger measure of the confidence of the loyal people of this country, as a gentleman of distinguished ability, of high integrity, of uncommon business capacity, and of devoted loyalty to this Government, than the present head of that Department. In that confidence I fully share, and so, I doubt not, does every Senator upon this floor. But we all know very well that Mr. Stanton has not an hour of time to give to the direction of this work. We all know that his whole time and all the energies of his mind are now engrossed in the far higher and more impor- tant and more pressing duties which more directly and more appropriately belong to his office as Secretary of War. General Meigs, who has heretofore, for the most part of the time, had the imme- diate supervision of this and of other public works, and is now the nominal superin- tendent, is also a gentleman of a very high order of talent, of great energy, and of remarkable executive ability. But General Meigs has no time to give to the super- vision of this work at this time. His hands are full of other occupations. All his time and all his attention are occupied in the laborious and complex duties of his office as Quartermaster General. Probably there are no two officers of the Govern- ment, not even excepting the President himself, or the Secretary of the Treasury, whose labors, physical and mental, are more severe and more incessant than are those of the Secretary of War and of the Quartermaster General; and it is but a poor tribute to say of them that these labors, severe and incessant as we know them to be, are yet ably and faithfully performed. This of itself is reason enough for relieving the War Department of this work. Besides, it does not come within the sphere of the appropriate duties of that Depart- ment, especially in time of war. In short, it is utterly impossible for the War Department to give the necessary time and attention to this work; and yet something must be done, and needs to be done quickly, in order to save this building, which has cost so much, from material and immense damage. The new wings and the dome, although carried comparatively near to completion, nevertheless are left in such a condition as affords little protection to the interior of the building from the effects of the weather. The building is suffering continually and severely from the effects of every storm of rain and snow that falls upon it. The roof and the upper por- tions of the walls are incomplete, and left in such condition that the water, instead of being carried off from the building, a considerable portion of it runs down inside of the building; some of it between the outer and the inner walls, much of it upon the ceiling above and upon the floors from the upper to the lower story. The effect of it will be seen in nearly all the rooms of the different wings adjoining to the outer wall, and upon the different floors from the higher to the lower, by the staining upon the inner walls in most of these rooms, in the weakening and loosening of the thick and heavy plastering upon these rooms, and in some of them it is actually fall- ing off. This process of injury will continue so long as the building is left in its present unprotected condition. If this process of injury shall continue a year or two longer, it will cost a larger expenditure of money to repair the injury than will now 792 Documentary History of the Capitol. be required to carry the work so far, at least, as to prevent the injury; and so much, at all events, ought to be done. The dictates of the strictest economy require it to be done. Now, sir, to the accomplishment of this purpose it becomes necessary to place the superintendency of the building and its extensions in the hand of some competent person, who can devote the necessary care and attention to it. This is the purpose, and this is the necessity of the proposed change. The Secretary of the Interior, to whom this work appropriately belongs as the head of the domestic, civil depart- ments of the Government, would be very likely to place its immediate supervision in the hands of some competent civilian, the Commissioner of Public Buildings, per- haps, or some eminent architect or civil engineer. Our military engineers have, all of them, employment enough already upon their hands. Whether this work shall be carried on to entire completion in all its parts, including the extension of the public grounds and their improvement, their fitting up and their inclosure, depends, of course, upon the will of Congress and upon future contingencies. Whether it will be expedient to carry out this work to entire completion now, in the present condi- tion of the country and of the Treasury, is a matter for future consideration; it is not a question now. All we now ask is, that by the expenditure of a few thousands of dollars you shall protect and preserve what has cost this Government so many mil- lions; and this ought to be done at once; it ought to be done before this injury pro- gresses any further; and it ought to be commenced as soon as the state of the weather will admit of out-door work of this kind. We are asking no expenditure for mere works of art and of ornament at this time. We are only asking so much as is absolutely necessary to protect this magnificent and costly structure from further and from last- ing injury in consequence of its present exposed condition. It requires no new appropriation. The unexpended appropriations are amply sufficient for this purpose. Having said this much, Mr. President, I have discharged my duty as chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings in bringing the subject to the consideration of the Senate. They will dispose of it as they shall see fit. Mr. Fessenden. I am opposed to this resolution in its present shape; and I am more particularly opposed to it from some hints that were dropped by my friend from Vermont in the remarks he has just made. The truth is that the appropriations to finish this building have been made. I think there are something like a million and a half of dollars now appropriated. The great expenditure, however, to be made, is in finishing the ornamental parts of the building. All the finished parts of the build- ing have been occupied by Congress long ago, and are under the control to-day of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, and he has charge of them. General Meigs, who has been in charge of the Capitol extension, and was super- intendent of the work most of the time, came to the conclusion that in the present state of the country, when we needed everything that we could possibly raise, and more than we have been able to raise thus far, to carry on the war, it would be very poor policy for him to draw the §1,500,000 which has been appropriated from the public Treasury and devote it to the finishing of the Capitol, building porticoes, and other things of that description. He thought it better to let it remain where it was until a more appropriate occasion; and, sir, I am of the same opinion. Now, the honorable Senator from Vermont proposes not to make an appropriation, which should be done if anything, and put it in the hands of the Commissioner of Public Buildings or the Secretary of the Interior to protect the building; but to pass over the whole sum appropriated, for ornamental parts and all — the whole §1,500,000 (if that is the sum) — into the hands of the Secretary of the Interior, to control the policy which has been adopted by General Meigs, the superintendent, after mature reflection, with reference to the exigencies of the public service; and the Senator -hints that the probability would be that some “eminent architect” would be employed to take charge of this work. It involves the old question, what the Senate The Extensions. 793 and Congress has refused over and over again, whether we shall take the matter out of the hands of the War Department and the superintendent of the building, who has erected it thus far, and place it in the hands of Mr. Walter, who desires to be employed again at a salary of §5,000 a year to go on with this work and expend this money. That is the simple question which is presented by this joint resolution in the shape in which my friend has brought it forward. If it is true — and perhaps it is, owing to the fact that some portions have not been entirely completed, as they should be — that an appropriation to protect the building from further injury is needed to be expended under the superintendence of the Sec- retary of the Interior, if you please, or the Commissioner of Public Buildings, I have no objection to that; the present superintendent has no objection to that. It may be that that is necessary; but this resolution, as it stands, goes the whole length of taking this building out of the hands of the Secretary of War, where it has been placed; in fact, out of the hands of the superintendent, who thus far has done his work with great economy and great, care with reference to contracts. He was removed at one time by Mr. Floyd, because he would not suffer the money to be misspent, and was brought back here by the action of Congress and of this Adminis- tration, after being absent a short time, and after money had been wasted in conse- quence of his removal ; and this resolution proposes to take it again out of his hands at the present time, and subject it to somebody else, in order that they may go on with it with the “eminent architect” who has been in an eternal quarrel with the War Department and with Mr. Meigs from the time he first came here, and spend this money when we have not money to spare. My objection to the resolution is that the money is safe where it is now; that we have no occasion to finish this building at present. We have no occasion to spend that §1,500,000 at the present time. We ought not to do it. We ought to let this Capitol stand as it is, comparatively, until better 'lays; until the time arrives when we have more money to dispose of than we have at the present time. If the Com- mittee on Public Buildings think — and I am disposed to defer to their opinion — that there should be an appropriation to protect the building thus far, to be expended under the Secretary of the Interior or the Commissioner of Public Buildings, let us make that appropriation; it will require but a small sum. That would be much better than to take the money out of the safe hands where it is now, and put it into the hands of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, the Secretary of the Interior, or anybody else. We all know how fast it goes, especially when we have our eminent architects about, who want to be employed again. It is manifestly safe where it is, and, in my judgment, we had better leave it there; and let the Committee on Public Buildings call for an appropriation, if they please, to protect the building against injury. Something may be necessary in that particular. Mr. Foot. My honorable friend from Maine has been misinformed in regard to the amount of outstanding appropriation for these works. There has been no appro- priation for the dome since that made for the fiscal year 1858, which was then §500,000, of which only about seventy thousand dollars now remain unexpended. At the last session of the last Congress we made an appropriation of §250,000 for the continuation of the extensions of the building. That §250,000 remains outstanding, and that, with the §70,000 of the outstanding residue of the appropriation for the dome, is all that there is at hand. I have already suggested, Mr. President, that this resolution did not present the question to the Senate of the policy or impolicy of carrying on this work to a com- pletion, in the present condition of the country and of the Treasury. So far as I know, the only purpose is to appropriate and to expend so much money, and no more, at the present time, as may be necessary to protect this building from the injury which it is suffering every day; and that injury is daily increasing. I have 794 Documentary History of the Capitol. pointed it out very slightly; but this injury is patent and open to the observation of every Senator. Every member can see for himself to what extent the building is suffering for need of an expenditure of, I do not know how many thousand dollars. I know that the present superintendent, General Meigs, has no time even to examine the subject. The proposition is that it be placed in hands who can give attention to it, and employ some competent person to make the expenditure, so far, at least, as to protect this building from dilapidation and decay. Mr. Fessenden. If the Senator will put it in that shape as I have told him, I shall not make any objection to it. I may be misinformed and have an incorrect idea about the amount that still remains unexpended; but if the Senator will put it in that shape, to take from that appropriation, or any other, what may be necessary to prevent this building from injury, and have that expended by whom he pleases, I shall have no objection to his resolution. But while he says that is the object of it, it goes the whole length of changing the superintendency of the building; it goes the whole length of taking it out of the hands of the Department which has conducted it thus far, and putting it in the hands of the Secretary of the Interior, and giving him control OA'er all the appropriations that are now on hand. I know what it involves. It is impossible to misunderstand it. The power is gone out of our hands when we have passed it, unless we repeal the resolution after we pass it. If the pro- tection of the building were all that the Committee on Public Buildings desired to accomplish, it would be very easy to pass a resolution to that effect, authorizing the Commissioner of Public Buildings or the Secretary of the Interior, if you please, to spend a specific sum of money for the preservation of the building. Let the resolu- tion be specific, and not go to the root of the matter entirely and change the whole superintendence of the building. General Meigs has not asked to be relieved from it at all. He has adopted his policy. The whole thing is now in charge of men whom he left here sufficient to take care of what has been done. If he said that he had no time to attend it, if he wanted to be relieved from the superintendence of the work, if the War Department asked to be relieved from it, it would be a different affair; but they ask no such thing. It is a movement outside of them, and the movement comes in connection with this gentleman, who has been so desirous from the beginning to control this work, and who has been in a quarrel with the War Department from beginning to end, and been turned out once or twice; I mean Mr. Walter, the architect. This seems to be a good chance for him to get control of the work again. I am opposed to that. I am opposed to passing a resolution which goes so far as this does. To the extent to which the Senator from Vermont says he desires to go — to protect the building — I am willing it should be done; but it can be done by very different kind of legislation from taking it out of the hands of those disposed to hold on to the money and put- ting it into new hands disposed to spend it. Mr. Foot. It is due to Mr. Walter, perhaps, as his name has been referred to by the Senator, that I should say I never had a word of conversation with Mr. Walter on the subject; his name has never been indicated to me from any quarter whatever in connection with this work; and it had not occurred to me until the Senator him- self suggested it. I do not know who the Secretary of the Interior might employ, in whose hands he might place this work in charge; but I will say, and it is all I have now to say, that I am, upon general principles, in favor of taking this work from a military superintendency, to which it is not appropriate, and placing it under a civil superintendency. It more appropriately belongs to such a superintendency. The joint resolution was reported to the Senate without amendment; and on the question, “Shall the joint resolution be engrossed fora third reading?” there were on a division — ayes 16, noes 9; no quorum voting. . Mr. Foot. It is necessary to have the yeas and nays in order to obtain a quorum; and I ask for the yeas and nays. The Extensions. 795 The yeas and nays were ordered. Mr. Grimes. I move to postpone this resolution until to-morrow. It has been stated here, by the Senator from Maine, that this joint resolution if passed virtually transfers $1,500,000 from the Treasury now under the control of the War Depart- ment and places it in the hands of another Department. It seems to me we ought not to take so important, a step as that without knowing whether that is so. Mr. Fessenden. I may have confounded the amount necessary to complete the building with the amount of the actual appropriation. I think we ought to ascer- tain how much there is on hand before we pass this resolution. Mr. Grimes. It is rather a large sum, and I think we should have information in regard to it. Mr. Hale. I think we might be content with the statement of the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings, who has investigated it, and says there are about three hundred thousand dollars on hand. Mr. Grimes. He did not deny the statement of the Senator from Maine. Mr. Hale. Yes, he did, and stated specifically what there was on hand; about seventy thousand dollars unexpended of the appropriation for the dome, and the $250,000 which have been appropriated since for the building, making, altogether, $320,000 instead of $1,500,000. Now, let me say that I think that we ought to pass this resolution. When this Capitol was commenced, it was commenced under civil superintendency, and a decent, Christian plan of building a house was devised and begun. The foundations were laid for a respectable building; one that would have given us the benefit of a little light and air from heaven, instead of having our air pumped up from the cellar and our light come down as it does. The foundations of the building were all laid for it in that way. Then Mr. Pierce came in, with Mr. Davis as Secretary of War, and he thought the arrangement of the Almighty for supplying light and air was not quite so good as he could devise, and he moved it into the center of the building, like a mouse trap in a pot, so that no air could come to it, and went to work, at an immense cost, pumping up air from the cellar. And that- is the way we get our air here, by a steam engine that is constantly at work. This is one of the worst ventilated rooms I ever was in in my life, not excepting stables; but I believe the present Ser- geant-at-Arms has made some improvement upon it. I think that the practical wis- dom that has been manifested by these two Departments, is vastly in favor of the civil instead of the military. Why, Mr. President, it has got so now that this Gov- ernment cannot do anything under heaven, but the Army has to come in to do it. It seems to me, as was well suggested by my friend from Illinois, that the Army has got quite enough to do, without holding on to anything and everything there is to do, and the Secretary of the Interior has not quite enough. I hope the recommen- dation of the committee will be followed. The Vice President. The special order of the day is the unfinished business of yesterday, and one o’clock having now arrived, it is before the Senate. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 25, 1862: Congressional Globe, 37 — 2, p. 1347.] CAPITOL EXTENSION. Mr. Foot. As there seems to be no other business of the morning hour, I ask the Senate to take up the joint resolution for the transfer of the superintendency of the Capitol building from the War to the Interior Department. It will be recollected that this resolution was taken up and considered several days since, and the yeas and nays ordered upon its third reading, when its further consideration was interrupted by the expiration of the morning hour and the consideration of the special order. I 7V)6 Documentary History of the Capitol. hope it may now be taken up and considered and disposed of. I move that it now be considered. The motion was agreed to, and the Senate resumed the consideration of the joint resolution (S. No. 50) transferring the supervision of the Capitol extension and the erection of the new dome, to the Department of the Interior; the pending question being on ordering it to be engrossed for a third reading, on which the yeas and nays had been ordered. Mr. Fessenden. I stated my objections to this joint resolution the other day, and if I can get the ear of the Senate for a moment, as it is a matter of business and involves the expenditure of money, I wish to state them again. I do not propose to argue the question further, or to insist upon my own views being adopted, but sim- ply to state the question in order that the Senate may understand it, and then the responsibility will be off my shoulders at any rate. The erection of the Capitol extension has been under the charge of the War Depart- ment; it is under the charge of the War Department now. The interior of this part of the Capitol and of the other wing, so far as it is occupied, has been finished, with a very few exceptions, and turned over to Congress. There are certain places, undoubt- edly, which require care, where the water gets in and where some other finishing ought to be done, and some more blocks put in. We see several leaks about the Capitol. 1 have conversed with General Meigs on the subject and he states that all that mending which is necessary to take care of the building (and it undoubtedly needs looking after every year) is now perfectly within the control of the Commis- sioner of Public Buildings, and an appropriation has been made and placed at the control of the Commissioner of Public Buildings for that purpose. If any larger appropriation is necessary in order to take care of the Capitol, of course it ought to be made. When there are, as we know, miles of gutters about the building, it must get out of order more or less every year ; imperfect places will be found where there are leaks, and those ought to be looked after and kept in repair every year. The frost also operates on the work. It should be looked after just like any other building. It requires an appropriation for that purpose, and there should always be an appropriation for that purpose. There are certain places where the connection takes place between the old building and the new, on both sides, which are imper- fect, and something more should be done. With these exceptions — and they are all mere matters of repair — all that is necessary to meet that which is an immediate purpose may be done and should be done within the perfect competency of the Commissioner of Public Buildings at the present time, and if money enough has not been appropriated it is his business to ask for more, and it can be appropriated. But this proposition involves more than that, and my friend from Vermont will admit that it involves more. It involves changing the superintendence with a view to have the work go on, to finish the Capitol building, to finish the dome, to finish the east front and construct steps where the brick work is, to put up the pillars, &c., finish the outside, and put ornamental work on the building, of which, perhaps, there is no immediate necessity. That will take a large sum of money. There are several hundred thousand dollars now appropriated which have not been spent, and it will be necessary to appropriate more in process of time for the same purpose. General Meigs decided that, with the exception of these temporary repairs, it was not advisable to go on with the building in the present state of the public funds. He said, for instance, it would take, I do not know how much, but several hundred thousand dollars to put up the pillars and finish the outside. The answer of my friend is, that the brick work which we see deteriorates every year, and so it does; but the idea of General Meigs was, that it was better to lose four or five thousand dollars on the brick work than to go on and finish the Capitol in the present state . of the public funds — I mean to finish the mere outside work of the Capitol, which can as well be deferred. The Extensions. 797 The object and the effect of this change, to take the superintendence out of the hands of General Meigs, who has thus far gone on with it, and put it in the hands of the Secretary of the Interior, is simply to go on with the building, put up the pillars, &c. That, I suppose, my friend will admit to be the design. It is for the Senate to decide whether, after the building has got to the position in which it now is, it is advisable at the present time, in the present state of the Treasury, to expend the large sums of money that will be necessary in order to finish the work on the outside of the building. I do not think it is treating General Meigs exactly right to take it out of his hands without his consent and against his opinion; "but at the same time he is a public officer, and must submit to any change that Con- gress orders in reference to the matter. I understand that it is in the power of the President now, if he pleases, to change the superintendency without an act of Con- gress from the War Department to any other Department he chooses. In that, how- ever, I may be mistaken; but it is a question for Congress to settle in reality. My own judgment is, that we had better leave it where it is, and not make any appro- priation of more than is necessary to keep the building in repair. Mr. Hale. My attention has been called to this matter, and I think the Senator from Maine is a little mistaken in some of his historical statements in regard to it. He says this is now and was under military superintendence. The fact is that when this addition to the Capitol was commenced — I think you were a member at the time, sir; I was certainly — it was put under civil superintendence and so remained through the administration of Mr. Fillmore. A Christian and civilized plan of a room was designed, and the foundation walls were laid for the whole work, on an estimate of about two and a half millions of dollars; and it was going on to per- fection upon that plan, when the administration of Franklin Pierce and Jefferson Davis came in. Then the progress of the building under civil superintendence was arrested ; the whole plan was changed, and instead of going on as the foundations were laid for a room for the Senate which should have some light and air from the sides, it was altered to this trap in the middle of the house. The expenditures were more than doubled ; they have already spent more than twice what was estimated to complete it under civil superintendency. It went on, and I think that the most fastidious worshipers at the shrine of military superintendence cannot but admit that a great blunder was made when the alteration was made from the first plan to that which we now have. It went on and was progressing to completion when this war broke out. Now, I know, as a matter of fact, that the Committees on Public Build- ings of the House of Representatives and of the Senate, the President of the United States concurring, all were desirous that some progress should be made in the com- pletion, I think, of the dome, and so expressed themselves in writing ; but General Meigs overruled it, refused to carry it out. Now, sir, what is the state of this build- ing to-day? Here is a building that has cost twice and will cost three times what it would have cost if it had continued under civil superintendence. We are leaving open the upper part of the building, the roof, so that the valuable and costly stucco in the various parts of the building, which any of the Senators can see who will take the trouble to go around, is actually being saturated with water and dropping. The work of destruction has commenced, so that these finely wrought walls are dropping to pieces from the effect of rain, which comes in all over the building. I suppose it is so left as a matter of economy! If you go down into the basement, two or three stories below, where the light and air of heaven never get, where there is no light except gas-light, and no air but that which is pumped up, during all this time, and at this moment while I speak to you, Italian artists are employed, at an extravagant compensation, making pictures down in the vaults and alleys of this Capitol, two or three stories below daylight, while the walls are left open and the progress of destruction is going on and going on rapidly, and it will not be long before this building will be comparatively a mass of ruins, so far as all the ornamental 798 Documentary History of the Capitol. work on the walls is concerned. This condition of things is to go on simply that when General Meigs gets through with this war, if he ever does, and gets his leisure, he may then take hold and show us what military superintendence can do in com- pleting the building. I have not had any communication with the military department in reference to this question, but I am told that the Secretary of War is perfectly willing that this change shall be made. I have that from authority which satisfies my own judgment, though I have it not in such an official form that I can state it to the Senate. My own conviction is, about which I have no mistake at all, that Mr. Stanton is perfectly willing that this shall be done. I think that the public interests require it; and I think if there is a single Senator, not excepting the Senator from Maine, who will take the trouble to go with the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, up above these Chambers and through the aisles and see what the weather is doing and has been doing for more than a year to this building, he will be con- vinced that this transfer ought to be made, and that something ought to be done to carry on the work. It is a mistake to suppose that all that the building wants is what the Commissioner of Public Buildings can do. I think myself that the propriety and fitness of the thing is that it should be handed over to civil superintendence. I think General Meigs has enough to do and will have enough to do as long as he is at the head of the quartermaster’s department, without keeping this little job in perspective for him that he can turn his hands to, by way of amusement, when he is through with the rebellion. I think the p>ublic interest on every consideration requires that the change recommended by the committee should be made. Mr. Foot. Mr. President, I must confess to some surprise at the manifestation of any opposition to the passage of this resolution, and especially fi’orn my honorable friend from Maine. The necessity of its passage is apparent and urgent. The new portions of this Capitol are suffering daily an almost incalculable injury from exposure to the weather in their unfinished and unprotected condition. This is manifest to the observation of any one who will take the pains to examine it. Six millions of dollars have been expended upon these new wings, or extensions, as they are called. The work has been brought too near completion and has cost too much money to be allowed to remain any longer in its present exposed condition. These extensions ought now to be completed, finished. As a mere question of economy they ought to be finished. Nothing short of this, Mr. President, will fully protect this building from the injurious effects of the weather. The water from every rain that falls is continually running into the interior of the building on every side of it, as is admitted by the Senator from Maine; and let me say to my honorable friend that this is not owing, in any considerable degree, if at all, to defects and open- ings in the iron gutters around the roof, as suggested by him, and which can be repaired under the direction of the Commissioner of Public Buildings with a small appropriation for that purpose. I would be glad if every Senator could examine this point for himself, and then to say whether this building can be properly protected and preserved from the injurious influences of the elements until it is carried to a more advanced state of completion. I would be willing to submit this question to the judgment of my honorable friend from Maine himself, and abide his decision upon it, on his personal examination of the subject. It is not a question for disputa- tion that, if you would save and protect this costly building from continual and incal- culable damage, this work must be speedily resumed and carried forward to the extent at least of completing the outer walls, of placing the cornices, of carrying up the facings of the pediments, and of finishing the connections of the corridors which connect the wings with the center building, and to complete some other portions of the wings. But I will not enlarge upon a matter which is open and apparent to every man’s observation. Now, then, if the Senate shall be of opinion that this ought to be done; that this The Extensions. 799 building ought to be so far completed as to protect it from this injury, they will adopt this resolution to transfer the superintendency of the work from the War Department, which has no time to look after it and to give it the necessary atten- tion, to the Department of the Interior, where it was originally placed, and to which it properly belongs, and from which it never ought to have been transferred, and never would have been, but to gratify the personal pride and ambition of Jeffer- son Davis; and was continued in the War Department only to gratify the rapacity of John B. Floyd. Sir, I venture to assert here that the transfer of this work from a civil to a military superintendency has cost this Government, at least, from three to four millions of dollars. Had it been continued under a civil superintendency, as it was commenced, I hesitate not to say that we should have had a better building, in bet- ter taste, and better adapted to the uses and purposes for which it was designed, than we now have, and at less than one half the cost, and that it would have been com- pleted, at least, five years ago. I have been here in the Senate, Mr. President, as well as yourself, from the com- mencement of this work, and profess to know something about it, and of the manner in which it has been conducted. The original estimate of the cost of these exten- sions, upon the plan then approved and adopted, was but §2,675,000. Permit me to present this point a little more in detail. The first appropriation for the Capitol extension was made in September, 1850, in the following words: One hundred thousand dollars for the extension of the United States Capitol, to be expended under the direction of the President, by such architect as he may appoint. Nothing was said about ever putting it under the superintendency of the War Department. No one at that time dreamed of placing it under such a superintend- ency. In pursuance of this act, Mr. Fillmore appointed Thomas U. Wal ter, of Phila- delphia, a gentleman of the highest eminence in his profession, as the architect, and placed the work under the jurisdiction and general supervision of the Department of the Interioi’. Upon the accession of Mr. Pierce to the Presidency, and the appoint- ment of Jefferson Davis as Secretary of War, the superintendency of this work was immediately transferred from the Interior Department to the Department of War, and an officer of the Army was detailed to take it in charge. This transfer was made on the 4th of April, 1853, at which time all the foundations of the building were completed, and a part of the basement story erected. Imme- diately after the transfer of the work from the Interior Department to the Depart- ment of War, the Secretary of War, or the superintendent, by his direction, ordered the architect to change the original plans of the building, so as to move the halls of Congress from the western fronts to the center of the wings. This necessarily involved the construction of additional foundations at vast expense, and of an indefinite delay in the completion of the work. He also ordered the introduction into the plans of four grand stairways, to be constructed of fancy polished marble, and also the construction of a marble corridor, extending through the southern wing; and other material and expensive changes were ordered. So that it appears, from an estimate submitted to Congress in 1856, the total cost of the building was estimated at $5,510,000, of which $2,675,000 had then been appropriated, requiring $2,835,000 still to be appropriated in order to complete the work upon the changed plans — the military plans, the Jefferson Davis plans. But instead of this sum being sufficient, there have been appropriated $3,606,000, or $771,000 more than this estimate, and to which there must be added at least $1,000,000 more, in order to bring the work to completion. The architect’s original estimate, made before the work was commenced, and with the qualification that it was not to be finished more expensively than the old Capitol, was, as I have already stated, $2,675,000. The new estimate under the War Department, after the contracts had been made and the work partly executed, was the sum of $2,835,000 in addition to the original estimates. The appropriations already 800 Documentary History of the Capitol. made exceed this sum by $771,000, and adding $1,000,000 more, which will be re- quired to bring the building to completion, its cost will exceed the estimate of the War Department by $1,771,000, making the total cost of the building when com- pleted $7,281,000 which is an excess over the original estimate upon the plan of the Department of the Interior of $4,605,000. In making these computations, let me remark that I omit sums or fractions of less than $1,000, as they do not materially affect the result in the computation of millions. There have been appropriated for the Capitol extension, from time to time, the following sums: September 30, 1850, as I have already said, $100,000; April 4, 1852, $500,000; 1853, $400,000; 1854, $600,000; 1855, $750,000; 1856, $325,000; 1857, $750,000; 1858, $900,000; 1859, $750,000 at one time, and again, on the 3d of March of that year, $400,000; May 24, 1860, $3,700 for some specific purpose, and in addition to that on June 25, $552,421.74; March 2, 1861, $250,000; making an aggregate of appropriations already made for the Capitol exten- sion of $6,281,124.74, of which there are remaining now unexpended something over $300,000. Mr. Collamer. Does that include the dome? Mr. Foot. That does not include the dome. Adding $1,000,000 to this amount, it makes $7,281,124 74 as the cost for the entire completion of the building. That, let me remark here, is entirely exclusive of the dome and exclusive of the extension and improvements of the public grounds around the building. The estimate of the War Department, as I said, was $5,510,000, which was an under estimate of at least $1,771,000, and is over and above the original estimate of the Interior Department more than four and a half millions of dollars. Aside from all this there have been appropriated $700,000 for the new dome, about six hundred thousand of which have been expended, leaving one hundred thousand yet unexpended, and which is suffi- cient for its completion. It ought now to be finished. The dome is suffering as the whole building is suffering in its present condition. As a matter of economy, it ought to be finished. The iron for it has been cast and paid for, and much of it is lying upon the ground about the Capitol, rusting, corroding, and consequently deteriorating in strength and value. The derrick and machinery for lifting the iron and placing it upon the dome have been erected at a large expense, an expense of some thirty thousand dollars, as I am told. These are made mostly of wood work, and, exposed as they are to the influences of the weather, are decaying in consequence of this exposure, and in one, or two, or three years would become unsafe and unfit for use; and new derricks and machinery would have to be made, if the work should hereafter be resumed, at an expense of at least one third of what it would now cost to complete the dome. Sir, every consideration of economy, every consideration of protection to this building, every consideration of expediency requires that it should be completed, and that it should be done now. To let these works remain in their present condi- tion is, in my judgment, to say the least of it, the most inexcusable, needless, and extravagant waste and destruction of property. Sir, why shall we allow this great and expensive work to remain untouched in its present condition? Why shall we suffer it to go to ruin as it is fast doing in many portions of the interior of the build- ing? Why not finish it up, at any rate so far as to protect and preserve what has cost this Government already by far too much? Why not do it now? What is the argument against it? What reason is assigned for postponing it, and, perhaps, for years to come? It has been said in answer that while the Government is so deeply in debt, and borrowing money to carry on the war, it ought not to be expending money upon works of this kind. Sir, this is no answer at all against the expenditure of a comparatively small amount, a few thousands, or even a few hundred of thousands of dollars, when it is necessary to do it in order to complete a structure which has cost you six or seven millions of dollars, and with a view to prevent it from going to ruin. Besides, if this work is not to be resumed until the country is out of the war, The Extensions. 801 and out of the war debt, it will not be resumed for twenty years to come. If it is not to be resumed now, because, and by reason of the country being deeply in debt, the same reason will apply with equal pertinency, and with equal force, ten years hence as it does this morning. No, sir; our true economy is to go on, and complete this work, so far forth, at least, as may be necessary for its protection and preservation; and we are as well able to do it at this time as we shall be ten years hence, and as we can do it now at less than one half the cost of it. Now, I ask the Senator from Maine, does he propose to allow this building to remain in its present situation for ten years to come? If so, I have only to say that at that time it will be hardly worth finishing or hardly worth repairing. At all events, it will cost more ten years hence to repair the damage to the building than it will cost now to finish the work. It has been said also that this building has been fully completed for all purposes of use and occupation, and that nothing now remains to be done except the ornamental parts of the building; and the question has been asked, will you expend money upon mere works of art and ornament while the Government is obliged to borrow money to pay the poor soldier who is fighting the battles of the country? I emphatically answer, no! but the question itself is a disingenuous one, and carries with it a false assumption. Sir, it is not proposed to expend money — not a dollar — upon mere works of art and ornament. We have had quite too much of gaudy decoration upon this building already. It is proposed to expend money now only for the purpose of saving money. It is proposed to expend money now only for the purpose of saving, of protecting, of preserving what has cost you more than six millions of dollars. The objection implied by this inquiry, let me say, comes with an ill grace, and, I fear, not with entire sincerity, when at this very time the Government is employing an artist upon a decorative painting on the wall at the head of one of the stairways in the southern wing at a cost of $25,000, by contract, as I am informed, to be followed by three others, of like character, and each of them at the same cost; and while the Govern- ment — as has been already remarked by the Senator from New Hampshire — is employing artists upon ornamental fresco painting upon the walls of the dark passage ways below us, where it cannot be seen, even in the day time, except by gas light. While this sort of expenditure is going on I have little patience with being told by anybody that we are asking for an expenditure of money upon works of ornament, when we are asking only for an expenditure of money for the preservation of this costly building. It is somebody else that is expending money for mere works of art and ornament. Sir, let this kind of expenditure, let these works of art and decora- tion be stopped, and let the money be appropriated to the more substantial and nec- essary work of the building — for its covering, its protection, and preservation. This is the dictate of common prudence and of common sense, as well as of strict economy. The Vice President. The morning hour having expired, it is now the duty of the Chair to call up the special order. Mr. Foot. I will lie obliged to my friend from Massachusetts if he will allow me a very short time, for I desire to conclude what I may have to say on this question. Mr. Wilson, of Massachusetts. Certainly. Mr. Foot. I will remark here in passing, Mr. President, that the work upon the Treasury building has not been suspended on account of the war, but is being carried on now. Why may not the work on this building be carried on as well? That work has never been placed under a military superintendency, but is carried on under the direction of the Government architect, Mr. Young; and I undertake to say here, that that building, in point of convenience, in point of taste, in point of architectural beauty and elegance, and also in point of cost, will compare most favorably with this one. I will say, too, that the necessity for carrying on the work on the national H. Rep. 646 51 802 Documentary History of the Capitol. Capitol is as urgent and more so than upon the Treasury building. Upon this, how- ever, I have nothing more to say. I will say here, Mr. President, that I have good reason to believe that the Secre- tary of War would be quite pleased to be relieved from the charge and responsibility of this work. I have no reason to doubt that General Meigs himself would not be unwilling to be relieved from it. Both of these gentlemen have other duties enough to engage all their time and attention; duties which directly and more appropriately pertain to their official positions. Besides, they will still be left in charge of the Washington aqueduct and of the General Post Office building, works which involve an expenditure of eight or ten millions of dollars. Mr. Hale. And the Treasury. Mr. Foot. The Treasury is not under the War Department. Why, then, shall we insist upon keeping this building under the charge of the War Department, where it never properly belonged, and where it can receive no attention whatever. Certainly I can not possibly conceive why, unless it be to subserve some purpose of personal ambition at the sacrifice of the public interest. But I will impute so unworthy a motive to no man. Let the proposed transfer be made; let this work be resumed; let it be carried on so far, at any rate, as to protect this building from the injurious effect of its present exposed condition; let so much be done, and this costly edifice will be saved from the daily injuries it is sustaining from its exposed condition, and which it will continue to sustain so long as it is left in the state in which it now is; and thousands and many times tens of thousands of dollars will be saved by it. I repeat, if this work is ever to be done, it cannot be done too quickly. If it is ever to be done, it ought to be done now; it has been neglected already quite too long. Mr. President, this national Capitol of ours, in its present condition, instead of being the boast and the pride of the country, instead of being an ornament and a credit to the country, stands to-day, after twelve years, an unfinished and an unsightly pile; at once a testimony and a confession, a humiliating confession, to the country and to the world, of a national weakness and imbecility, of a national impov- erishment and bankruptcy, which, for the credit of my country, I am not ready to admit, and which, for the honor of my country, I am not willing to acknowledge. Sir, we are strong enough yet, thank God, to put down this rebellion and to put up this our Capitol at the same time. And when the rebellion shall have been sup- pressed — as suppressed it soon will be; when this war shall have been terminated — as terminated it soon will be; and when this Union of ours shall have been restored — as restored it soon will be; it will furnish a fitting and appropriate occasion to celebrate that welcome event by crowning the American Capitol with the statue of the Goddess of Freedom. Mr. Fessenden. I have but one word to say. I can have very little hope of defeating this proposition in the very face of the eloquence of my friend from Ver- mont and my friend from New Hampshire, although the eloquence of the latter Senator was rather of a peculiar character. It was the old story about military superintendence and all that. That I do not care anything about at all. I take no interest in it. I never felt, and do not now feel, alarmed at these encroachments of the Army in being put in charge of a few buildings. I thought that was very good occupation for them if they had nothing else to do. I shall not attempt to answer any part of the argument made with reference to that. I rose, in the first place, simply to say, that if the Senate is disposed, in the present condition of the country, to spend $1,500,000 in finishing this Capitol, with all the difficulty that we have to raise money for our immediate necessities; if they are disposed to do that, and to take it out of the tax we are levying upon everybody’s production, so be it; I shall have done my duty in voting against it. The Extensions. 803 Now, sir, I do not want to be misrepresented. I stated in the beginning that I was perfectly ready to make any appropriation that might he necessary to protect the building, no matter what it is, to prevent this effect of the weather upon it; and a very small sum of money comparatively could accomplish that purpose. Certainly forty or fifty thousand dollars would be ample; I believe $20,000 would. But the question is — and that is involved in this proposition, and I do not want the Senate to lose sight of it; my friend from Vermont admits it — whether we shall go on and spend the remaining $1,500,000 which are requisite to complete the building, to put up the pillars, &e., at the present time? If the Senate are disposed to do it, in the face of what they know with reference to the finances of the country, so be it. I will vote with pleasure for an appropriation to protect the building to any amount that may be necessary, if the committee will confine itself to that; but I am not willing to give my assent at the present time to complete all the outside, to put up these elegant pillars, when we have so much difficulty in meeting our claims from day to day, and when our soldiers to-day are not paid and many of them cannot get any money. I think it would not look well. I think we can afford to sit in a build- ing the outside of which is a little rough; and in my judgment, it is no imputation on the Congress of the United States, in the present crisis, that it chooses to dispense for a little while with outside ornament, and look out for the absolute necessities of the day for a year or two longer, more or less. That is my opinion, sir; and having expressed that opinion, it is all I have to say. Mr. Sherman. I desire to submit an amendment to enable me to vote for the reso- lution : Provided, That no money heretofore appropriated shall be expended upon the Capitol until author- ized by Congress, except so much as is necessary to protect the building from injury by the elements, and to complete the dome. I will say a single word in regard to the matter. I think the building should be transferred from the charge of the War Department to the Interior Department, because General Meigs, who has had charge of the building, is now fully occupied, and cannot pay any attention to the subject. It therefore ought to be placed in the charge of some other officer. But, at the same time, I do not think that any more money ought to be expended than simply to preserve the buildings from the ele ments, and to complete the dome. The dome is in so advanced a condition that it would be safe and wise economy to complete it. In regard to other parts of the building, especially the outer portions of the building, they ought to be completed to preserve the building. I think beyond that, we ought to wait at least until further events develop themselves. The Vice President. The question is on agreeing to the amendment proposed by the Senator from Ohio. Mr. Foot. I have no objection to the limitations proposed by that provision. The amendment was agreed to. [House proceedings of Apr. 14, 1862: Congressional Globe, 37 — 2, p. 1658.] THE CAPITOL EXTENSION. Mr. Train. I ask unanimous consent to report back from the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds the joint resolution (S. No. 50) transferring the supervision of the Capitol extension and the erection of the new dome to the Department of the Interior. Mr. McPherson. I will not object, if the gentleman from Massachusetts will allow me to offer an amendment to the bill when it comes before the House. 804 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Richardson. I object. Mr. Train. I move to suspend the rules. Mr. Covode. I desire to state that this matter has been before the committee The Speaker. The motion is not debatable. Mr. Covode. I wish to state for the information of the House The Speaker. No statement is in order except by unanimous consent. Mr. Richardson. I withdraw the objection. Further objection was made. Mr. Washburne. I ask for the reading of the joint resolution. The joint resolution was read. It transfers the supervision of the Capitol extension and the erection of the new dome from the War Department to the Department of the Interior, and directs that all unexpended money which has been heretofore appropriated, and all money which may be hereafter appropriated for either of these improvements, shall be expended under the direction and supervision of the Secre- tary' of the Interior. The question being on the motion to suspend the rules, Mr. Train called for tellers. Tellers were ordered; and Messrs. Train and Chamberlin were appointed. The House divided; and the tellers reported — a_ves 54, noes 26; no quorum voting. Mr. Train called for the yeas and nays. The y'eas and nays were ordered. The question was taken; and it was decided in the affirmative — yeas 71, nays 29. * * * So the rules were suspended, (two thirds having voted therefor.) Mr. Train thereupon reported the joint resolution back to the House. The Speaker stated the question to be upon ordering the joint resolution to a third reading. Mr. Train. This resolution was reported unanimously from the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds of the Senate, and it passed that body', after full dis- cussion, with but three dissenting votes. That discussion has been printed in the Globe, and 1 suppose everybody understands it. Unless, therefore, somebody desires to discuss it, I will ask the previous question on the third reading of the joint resolution. Mr. McPherson. With the consent of the gentleman, I desire to say a very few words upon the subject of the joint resolution. Now, sir, I have no objection to the new dome of the Capitol being completed, nor do I object to the expenditure of whatever money may be necessary to protect the work on the Capitol generally' from injury' by' the elements. The feature of the bill to which I do object, however, is that which makes an absolute and unconditional transfer of the superintendence of the whole work from the President, where it was originally' placed and has since remained, to the Secre- tary of the Interior. When the first appropriation was made for commencing the work on the two wings, it was provided that it should be done under the general superintendence of the President of the United States. Accordingly, Mr. Fillmore, Avho was then Pres- ident, turned it over to the head of the Interior -Department. It remained under his superintendence probably for two y'ears, when Congress made provision for investi- gating the condition of the work, and the report of the committee which was appointed for that purpose showed such frauds as to challenge the attention of Congress and the country. Upondhe accession of Mr. Pierce to the Presidency the work was transferred by him from the Interior to the War Department, with a view of having the entire work placed under an officer of the engineer corps. Since that time the general supeiin- The Extension*. 805 tendence of the work has continued in the War Department by the consent and direction of the President of the United States. But the difficulty to remedy which this resolution is intended, as I understand, is the unwillingness of General Meigs, who has had charge of the work, to go on and complete the dome. Now, I am willing to pass any provision that may be necessary to require the completion of the dome, and for doing whatever may be necessary to protect the whole building from damage, but I am opposed to taking the general supervision of the work out of the hands of the President and placing it in the hands of any of the heads of Departments. It is a thing which never has been done before, and I think for the sake of safety should not be done now. The general idea I had upon this subject, I had embodied in the shape of an amendment to this effect: that the President be requested to order the resumption of work on the new dome of the Capitol, and the expenditure of so much of the appro- priations for that purpose as may be necessary to complete it; and to order such other work as may be necessary to protect the Capitol building from injury by the ele- ments; and that he make all appointments and arrangements necessary therefor. That would leave the responsibility with the President, where it always has been, and where, I think, it ought to be. I submit that- amendment as a substitute for the joint resolution. Mr. Train. I decline to yield the floor for that purpose. Mr. McPherson. Then I hope the resolution will be defeated. Mr. Covode. With the consent of the gentleman from Massachusetts, I think I can satisfy my colleague [Mr. McPherson] that the President never has taken the control of this work. On the contrary, when Jeff Davis was Secretary of War he asserted the control of this and of all the public buildings, without consulting either the President or the Secretary of the Interior. Mr. McPherson. If my colleague will allow me, I will say that he is entirely mis- taken in that statement. I have had occasion to make some investigation into the matter. I have in my possession, and I am sorry that it is not before me at this moment, a report in which may be found the original order of President Pierce, dated, I think, in May, 1853, transferring the work on the Capitol extension from the Interior to the War Department, giving as a reason therefor that it was to be placed in charge of a regular officer of the engineer corps, and for the reason that while the work was under the charge of a civil superintendent monstrous frauds were committed. Mr. Covobe. In answer to the gentleman on that point, he certainly must have become satisfied, if he has examined the subject, that there have been as great frauds since it has been in the hands of the War Department. The only objection I had to the passage of this bill in its present shape was, that I was authorized by the Committee on Public Expenditures to report a resolution for the transfer, not only of this building, but of all the public buildings and the water works, from the War to the Interior Department. Inasmuch, however, as this reso- lution would have to go back to the Senate, if amended as the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds propose, I will not interpose any objections to its passage, but leave the remainder of the work to be accomplished by another bill. Mr. Wickliffe. I should like to say a single word upon the subject of this resolu- tion. The work on this Capitol was by some order or other — I do not understand precisely what— placed under the superintendence of General Meigs, then a captain in the engineer corps of the Army. About the time Floyd commenced the. distribu- tion of cannon and arms, he fell out with Meigs, and he was in the act of removing him from his position as superintendent, when an appropriation was made by Con- gress to continue the work on the Capitol, with the requirement that it should be expended under the superintendence of General Meigs. To get clear of that require- ment, and to get clear of the vigilance Meigs was exercising over him, Floyd sent 806 Documentary History of the Capitol. him down to Florida among the mosquitoes, and placed the superintendence of the work under somebody else. After Floyd had distributed nearly all the arms in the possession of the Govern- ment, and had retired from the War Department, Meigs was recalled and again placed in charge of the work assigned to him by Congress. Mr. Wright. And he has done nothing on the Capitol since. Mr. Wickliffe. And he ought to do nothing at this time. Let us take care of the country first and finish the Capitol afterwards. Mr. McKnight. I can not see why there should be any objection upon the part any person in this House to this resolution. Something certainly should be done to secure more efficient operations in the completion of the Capitol. Now, the building of those new wings of the Capitol was originally placed under the control of the Interior Department; but I understand — and I confess that I have learned nearly all I know about the matter from listening to the remarks of the Senator from Vermont, [Mr. Foot,] who seemed to be entirely familiar w T ith the facts when the resolution was under the consideration of the Senate — I say, I under- stand that a contract was originally entered into by the Interior Department for the building of the new wings for something like $2,500,000. But, as Avas stated by my colleague on the committee, wben Mr. Pierce was Presi- dent of the United States, he transferred the building of the wings of the Capitol to Jeff Davis, the then Secretary of War. Since General Meigs has been the superin- tendent, the cost of this Avork has run up to $7,000,000. It has therefore, sir, cost more to the Government under the War Department superintendency than it would if the work had been retained under the control of the Interior Department.' How, then, with any good reason, can the gentleman ask that this Avork shall still be left AA’ith the War Department? It would seem that this is to be kept as a nest-egg for General Meigs after this war is over. I put it to the House, sir, whether General Meigs, the Quartermaster General, has not his hands full without being compelled to superintend the construction of this and other public Avorks? I beg leaA r e to call the attention of the House to a feAV statements made in the Senate by Senator Foot, of Vermont. I read from his speech: [Of Mar. 25, 1860, heretofore given.] The Senator goes on then to give a statement of the appropriations made from year to year. They are not necessary to be recited here, however. Now, I am Avilling — and I think that this House would be willing — since an appro- priation has been made for the completion of the Capitol, that Ave should go on and complete it as far as that sum will do it. But the Senate has seen fit, on motion of Senator Sherman, to put a restriction upon the appropriation, that only so much shall be used as w T ill finish the dome and protect the cornices from the inclemency of the weather. That precludes the completion of the staircases under this appropriation, and for one I Avould be willing to finish them. I Avould A r ote, also, the sum necessary to complete the dome. Any gentleman Avho passes through the dome after a snow or rain storm, Avill see the injury that will be the result if the dome is left in its present unfinished condition. The walls are damp, the pictures are damp, and the floor is covered with water. Let us put the Avork in the hands of some one who can go on at once and finish the dome, which General Meigs certainly cannot do. Therefore I sincerely hope that this House wall concur in the resolution of the Senate. I do not know why it is that gentlemen are uneasy about the transfer of the superintendency of this work to the Interior Department. I take it for granted that there is no officer there who ought not to be trusted, and if there is, he ought to be removed. I will state a further fact. The capitals and columns ready to be put up are eA’ery day being mutilated by strangers and soldiers wdio Adsit the city. They knock off -cornices and put them into their pockets to carry aivay with them as memorials of their trip to Washington. I think that all these capitals ought to be put up. Let us The Extensions. 807 at least pass this resolution, and jirotect this building, which has cost us so much, from the inclemencies of the weather. Mr. Train. Mr. Speaker, I have no quarrel, as the gentleman from Kentucky would seem to intimate, with General Meigs. The gentleman looks upon this reso- lution as a blow at General Meigs. Now, I have nothing against that officer; but, sir, for some reason or other, he declines to take any action in regard to the sugges- tions made to him by the committees of both branches of Congress for the protec- tion of this building from the weather. He has more business already than any two men should undertake, yet he will not enter an order or give a direction to allow anything to be done to preserve this building from destruction. The chairman of the committee on the part of the Senate and myself went during the extra session in July, and twice during this session, to ask him to permit Mr. Fowler to jiut up the iron which is rusting and wasting in the Capitol grounds; but, for some reason, he declines to do so. The Secretary of War agrees that the committees are right, but he declines to give the order to General Meigs, because he has now more business than he can attend to already. They cannot answer questions, much less attend to this business, at the War Department. And in the mean time this work, which originally was under the control of Mr. Walter, one of the most eminent architects in the country, is to remain in the condition in which you find it to-day. Shall that be permitted, or shall it be saved from destruction? I do not desire to go through the history of this matter; gentlemen will find it all in the Globe. The chairman of the committee on the part of the Senate has stated it with great particularity. But I do desire to call attention to the fact that all this proposition designs is the completion of the dome, for which the money has already been appropriated. The iron is at hand, and it ought to be put up. The mechan- ical works necessary to carry on the work are exposed to the weather, and if we allow a continuance of delay under the superintendency of General Meigs, until the close of the war, we will find these works rotted down, and that new ones will have to be constructed at an expense of thousands of dollars. Everything is ready for the completion of the dome now, and I say that it ought to be completed. Mr. Blair, of Missouri. Would not the adoption of the amendment of the gentle- man from Pennsylvania [Mr. McPherson] accomplish the purpose which the gen- tleman lias in view? Mr. Train. I have not seen it. Mr. Blair, of Missouri. It directs the President to order the work on the dome to be proceeded with, and that the building shall be preserved from dilapidation. Mr. Train. The President does not wish to be troubled with the work of com- pleting the Capitol, for he has enough to attend to already. The Interior Depart- ment ought properly to have the control of this work. Mr. McKnight. Let me ask the gentleman from Massachusetts whether General Meigs has not now, in addition to his duties as Quartermaster-General, the superin- tendency of the construction of the water works and the extension of the Treasury building? Mr. Train. He has the control of the water works and the extension of the Post Office building. Now, the water works will tumble in before this war is over, and then we will have to begin again unless the work is transferred from the hands of General Meigs to those of somebody who can attend to it. He has a laudable ambi- tion to distinguish himself by the completion of all of these works. It would be a nice little entertainment for the decline of his life. But in the mean time are we to suffer loss because he will not allow Mr. Walter, who has far more judgment and capacity than General Meigs, to complete the dome? Mr. Wright. Are not the Senate and House committees in favor of this transfer to the Interior Department? Mr. Train. They are, unanimously. 808 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Wright. That satisfies me; and I am willing to sustain the committees. I think that this work belongs to the Secretary of the Interior, and it is proper that we should give him the control of it. Mr. Train. If gentlemen would go about this building on such a day as Saturday last, after a fall of snow, and see the water permeating into the committee rooms and into the halls, and everywhere else where the water could find a crevice, they would be satisfied that something should lie done to preserve the building from going to decay. I agree with my colleague on the committee from Pennsylvania, [Mr. McKnight,] that the best thing we could do would be to order this Capitol completed at once; and that under the control of Mr. Walter it would be completed for much less money than it could lie under any Army officer you could appoint. My experience with these gentlemen of the engineer corps is, that they are very excellent engineers, and that they can disburse money very readily, but that they have no idea of economy in expenditures. I call the previous question. The previous question was seconded, and the main question ordered to be put, and under the operation thereof the resolution was ordered to be read a third time; and it was accordingly read the third time. Mr. Train. I demand the previous question upon the passage of the resolution. The previous question was seconded, and the main question ordered to be put; and under the operation thereof the resolution was passed. Mr. Train moved to reconsider the vote by which the resolution was passed; and also moved to lay the motion to reconsider on the table The latter motion was agreed to. [“No. 28. — A Resolution transferring the Supervision of the Capitol Extension and the Erection of the new Dome to the Department of the Interior,” approved Apr. 16, 1862. (Stats, at Large, v. 12, 617.)] Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the supervision of the Capitol extension and the erection of the new dome be and the same is hereby transferred from the War Department to the Department of the Interior. And all unexpended money which has been here- tofore appropriated, and all money which may be hereafter appropriated for either of the improvements heretofore mentioned, shall be expended under the direction and supervision of the Secretary of the Interior: Provided, That no money heretofore appropriated shall be expended upon the Capitol until authorized by Congress, except so much as is necessary to protect the building from injury by the elements and to complete the dome. [Senate Mis. Doc. No. 97, 37th Congress, 2d Session. Letter of the Secretary of the Interior, to the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, transmitting a copy of the report of the Architect of the United States Capitol Extension in relation to the protection of the Capitol Extension from injury, as provided for by the joint resolution of Congress approved April 16, 1862. May 12, 1862. — Read, referred to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, and ordered to be printed.] Department of the Interior, Washington, May 10, 1862. Sir: Immediately after the passage of the joint resolution of the 16th ultimo, transferring the supervision of the Capitol extension and the erection of the new dome to this department, I directed the architect to "make a careful and minute examination of those works, and to report to me their present condition, with his opinion as to the best mode of preserving the unfinished portions of the Capitol from injury by the elements, and the cost of so doing, and also to prepare an estimate of the amount that would probably be required to complete the works, exclusive of all ornamental and decorative designs. The Extensions. 809 It would seem from his report that considerable damage has already been sus- tained, and that while the unfinished portions of the building may for a time be partially protected from further injury by an expenditure of about $1,500, there is a large quantity of dressed material lying exposed upon the ground, already paid for by the United States, which cannot be effectually protected otherwise than by being set in the building, I fully concur in the opinion expressed by the architect, that, under the circum- stances, the interests of the government and the truest economy will best be pro- moted by pressing the work on the exterior of the building to completion with as little delay as possible; but as the joint resolution provides “that no money hereto- fore appropriated shall be expended upon the Capitol until authorized by Congress, except so much as is necessary to protect the building from injury by the elements and to complete the dome,” I do not feel authorized in pursuing that course without some further expression of the will of Congress on the subject. 1 have therefore the honor to lay before the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds a copy of the architect’s report, and to invite their consideration to the sug- gestion whether a modification of the said joint resolution, so as to permit the work to go on, is not advisable. It is believed that the unexpended balances of the appropriations heretofore made will be sufficient for the purpose during the next fiscal year. I am, sir, with much respect, your obedient servant, Caleb B. Smith, Secretary of the Interior. Hon. Solomon Foot, Chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, United States Senate. Washington, I>. C., May 8, 1862. Sir: I had the honor to receive from you, under date of the 30th ultimo, instruc- tions to submit to the department “a report showing the present condition and state of the works of the Capitol extension and new dome, with an estimate of the sums required for their final completion, exclusive of all ornamental and decorative designs.” Also a “report of what is necessary to be done to protect the Capitol extension from injury, as provided for by the joint resolution of Congress approved April 16, 1862.” In compliance with these instructions, I respectfully submit the following report: CAPITOL EXTENSION. Nothing remains to complete the interior of the buildings, as far as it relates to the construction, except the tiling of the floor of the vestibule of the north wing, the two eastern front doors, and the door between the south wing and the old Hall of Representatives. The trimmings for these doors cannot be put up until the doors are received. The plaster models for the valves of the eastern front doors were ordered of the late Thomas Crawford, from Rome, at $12,000; and an agreement was made with the Munich foundery to cast them in bronze for $10,500, making $22,500 for the valves of these two doors, exclusive of transportation. The plaster models for one door are completed, but have not yet been sent to Munich, nor lias any payment yet been made on account of them by the government. At the last advices the models for the other door were in progress. The valves of the door to be placed between the south wing and the old Hall of Representatives were ordered of Randolph Rogers, and are now completed. The 810 Documentary History of the Capitol. sum of $8,000 has been paid to Mr. Rogers for the models of this door, and $6,429 on account of the bronze castings, (a balance of $6,338 is still due upon it,) making its whole cost $20,767, exclusive of transportation. This door is still at Munich, await- ing the orders of the government. Of the exterior of the buildings, all the porticos and steps remain to be constructed, except a portion of the colonnades which connect the wings with the old Capitol. Of these colonnades eleven columns are already set, with a portion of their entabla- tures and marble ceilings. The whole number of exterior columns required for the work is one hundred, of which eleven are completed and set in the buildings, as before stated ; twelve are fin- ished and ready to be set, three are nearly completed, and six remain on the ground un wrought; making in all thirty-two columns which have been delivered, leaving sixty-eight yet to come. The wrought marble now on the ground, which has been paid for but not placed in the buildings, has cost for workmanship alone about $115,000, and the unwrought marble which has been received and inspected amounts to about $90,000. The granite steps of the western arcades of both wings have been laid temporarily on the foundations, and will require to be taken up, jointed, and permanently set. The granite steps of the western corridors also require to be set; likewise the flagging of the terraces over the vaults between the o'ld and the new buildings. These vaults are receiving injury from a want of the protection which this flagging will afford. All the material for the aforesaid steps is wrought and on the ground. The marble work is under contract with Provest, Winter & Co. ; the furnishing of the marble in the rough with Rice & Heebner; and the granite work, including materials, with Matthew G. Emery. An agreement exists with E. Leutze for paint- ing a picture on the western stairway of the south wing; one with the late Thomas Crawford and the Munich foundery for the two eastern front doors; and one with Randolph Rogers for an inner door, as before stated. These are all the contracts and agreements that are now in progress in connexion with the Capitol extension. The rest of the work is done by days’ workmen. The following is a list of all the appropriations made by Congress for the Capitol extension from the commencement of the work to the present time: * * * $6, 283, 621. 74 The expenditures up to May 1, 1862, less the amount derived from sun- dry sales during the progress of the work, amount to 5, 938, 351. 77 Leaving a balance of appropriation of 345, 269. 97 In addition to which, an appropriation will hereafter be required, to complete the work, of $600,000. In compliance with that part of your instructions which directs me to report “what is necessary to lie done to protect the Capitol extension from injury, as provided for by the joint resolution of Congress approved April 16, 1862, ’ ’ I have made a thorough examination of the work, and find that no effectual protection of the buildings against “injury by the elements” can be afforded for any considerable length of time in their present condition; nothing short of an entire finish of the exterior will protect them from deterioration. The top of the walls may be covered with tin-roofing, and such gutters and conductors made as will prevent the water from falling directly upon them ; and whenever water is found to have made its way, provision may be made for turn- ing it off. This will be the best temporary protection that can be given to the work in its present state, and it may all be accomplished for about $1,500. I am, however, of opinion that it would be greatly to the advantage of the govern- ment to resume and prosecute the work with vigor to its final completion, so far at least as it relates to the exterior. The Extensions. 811 Although it may be possible partially to protect the buildings from injury by the elements, as before stated, it is not possible to protect the vast amount of finished marble now on the ground from defacement and injury. Much of it lies upon the earth, or is in close proximity to it, by which discoloration is produced, while all of it is exposed to accident, and to fractures by ill-disposed persons. As I have already remarked, there have been paid, for workmanship alone, on the marble which has not yet been placed in the buildings, about $115,000. All of this costly work is scattered around through the shops and grounds; a large portion of it is delicately carved; it is, therefore, actually necessary, for its preservation, that it be placed in the build- ings with the least possible delay. There are on the ground about $25,000 worth of steps, wrought and ready to be put up, or more than enough for the entire approach to one wing; and all the founda- tions are constructed, and ready to receive them. These foundations are also receiving injury from the weather, and another winter will tend greatly to deteriorate them. There are also about $20,000 worth of entablature and portico ceilings, the most of which is elaborately carved; some. $20, 000 worth of delicately wrought capitals, and nearly all the balustrade that will be required to finish the work. Upon this alone about $30,000 have been expended. These, with the fifteen wrought columns, the bases, the pedestals, and other work which is now lying scattered over acres of ground, and throughout the shops, form an aggregate of wrought marble that seems to demand a speedy prosecution of the work, that it may be made available in the construction of the buildings before its defacement became permanent. The buildings are also becoming defaced by the washing of the cement and asphaltum from the walls above. This should be arrested as soon as possible by the construction of the porticos; and the discoloration should be removed before it penetrates the stone, and renders a restoration to its original beauty impossible. The interior is also suffering, particularly in the attic story. The finished walls are much defaced, and in some places the plastering is already decaying and falling off. Some of the finest stucco ornaments are entirely destroyed, and much of the expensive ornamentation is already injured. The progress of these dilapidations can be permanently arrested only by finishing the entire exterior. It will also be observed that the water percolates through the ceilings and arches of all the arcades, causing inconvenience to those who pass through them, as well as injury to the work. This can be remedied only by finishing the porticos. The water is admitted through the exposed surfaces of the brick piers which are prepared to receive the pedestals of the columns. These surfaces will all be covered with the pedestals, and this alone can make the portico floors water-tight. In view of these facts, I have considered it incumbent upon me respectfully to recommend, as the only means of protecting the buildings from “injury by the ele- ments,” and of saving the vast amount of money already expended upon the mate- rials upon the ground, that the work of the exterior of the buildings be resumed with as little delay as possible and prosecuted with vigor to its ultimate completion. * * * Tiio. U. Walter, Architect of the United States Cajntol Extension, &c. Hon. Caleb B. Smith, Secretary of the Interior. [From the “Act making further Appropriations for sundry Civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty-three, and additional Appropriations for the Year ending thirtieth June, eighteen hundred and sixty-two,” approved July 11, 18G2. (Stats, at Large, v. 12, 533.)] For the purpose of enabling the commissioner of public buildings and grounds to remove the Army bakery from the basement of the Capitol and to repair the damage caused by said bakery, the sum of eight thousand dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary. S12 Documentary History of the Capitol. [Senate proceedings of July 14, 1862: Congressional Globe, 37 — 2, p. 3325.] ALTERATION OF THE SENATE CHAMBER. Mr. Hale. I wish to move that the committee appointed on the ventilation of the Hall have leave to report at the next session of Congress. In explanation of the motion, I will say that the architect with whom we wanted to consult has been absent from the city almost ever since the committee has been appointed, and is now absent. We do not ask leave to sit in the recess or incur any expense, but simply to report at the next session, so that we may have the benefit of consulting with the architect during the vacation and submitting his plans at that time. The President pro tempore. The committee unquestionably have that power -with- out a special vote. Mr. Hale. I understood differently; but if that is so I am content. [From the annual report of B. B. French, Commissioner of Public Buildings, Oct. 29, 1862. (37 — 3, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, v. 2, p. 596.)] THE CAPITOL. In my annual report of last year I called attention to the fact that the old portion of the Capitol was very much in want of a thorough painting on the outside, and recommended an appropriation of eight thousand dollars, based on an estimate made by Mr. James Galway, a master painter, which was submitted with my report. The appropriation was made and the building has been painted for the sum appro- priated in a very thorough and workmanlike manner. The interior of the building was then in great need of casual repairs on the inside, in consequence of its occupancy by troops, and by the military generally, the pre- ceding spring. An appropriation of three thousand two hundred dollars was made, which was expended in repairing, cleaning, and painting, and it was then supposed that, with the ordinary appropriation, the Capitol could be kept in proper order; but, on the 31st day of August last, I received an order, of which the following is a copy: Headquarters Military District of Washington, Washington, I). C., August 31, 1863. Special orders, No. 177. — Extract. 1. The following buildings and premises will be taken possession of forthwith for hospital purposes, viz: The Capitol. * * * By command of Brigadier-General Wadworth. John P. Sherburne, Assistant Adjutant- General. Mr. French, Commissioner of Public Buildings. In conformity with this order the Capitol was taken military possession of, fifteen hundred beds were placed in it, occupying nearly all parts of it, and there were, in September, between eleven and twelve hundred sick and wounded soldiers in the building. Sentinels were stationed at every door, and the entire building became so obnoxious to the senses that the regular civil employes in the building were very much annoyed, and some of them were obliged to leave the building. The Capitol was thus occupied until about the middle of October, when the patients were removed. It then became necessary again to go over the entire building and cleanse it as thor- oughly as possible. In consequence of this necessity, and of the vast increase of visitors, 1 have added to the ordinary appropriation for casual repairs, &c., the sum of two thousand dollars, which I hope may be granted. The Extensions. 813 The army bakeries, referred to in my last report, and ordered by Congress to be removed, were, after considerable correspondence, finally removed, by the military authorities, by special order of the President, in October, and I am now exerting all possible energy to have the wreck of rooms occupied by them restored to order and made habitable by the time Congress assembles. It is hoped that the Capitol may hereafter be left to its legitimate uses, and not be defaced and disfigured by military occupation. * * * Hon. Caleb B. Smith, Secretary of the Interior. B. B. French, Commissioner of Public Buildings. [From the annual report of Caleb B. Smith, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 29, 1862. (37 — 3, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, v. 2, pp. 21-2.)] The large number of sick and wounded soldiers demanding attention at this point rendered it necessary, in the judgment of the Surgeon General, to occupy the Capitol as a hospital during a portion of the time since the adjournment of Congress, and it was taken possession of for that purpose by order of the War Department. More than the ordinary expenditures for cleaning and repairs have been rendered necessary by this occupation of the building. The outside painting of the old Capitol, authorized by Congress at its last session, has been completed, and has greatly improved its appearance. The army bakery which had been erected in the basement has been removed. Any appropriation of the Capitol to military uses must necessarily cause injury to the building and defacement of the expensive decorations by which it is ornamented. I respectfully suggest that Congress should provide by law against its future occupa- tion for any other than the purposes for which it was erected. * * * By a joint resolution of Congress, approved April 16, 1862, this Department was charged with the supervision of the Capitol extension and the erection of the new dome. The prosecution of these works had been suspended since the 15th of May, 1861. The joint resolution provided that no money theretofore appropriated should be expended on the Capitol, except so much as was necessary to protect the building from injury by the elements and to complete the dome. To carry out the intention of Congress, it was deemed advisable to prosecute the work on the two eastern entrances of the Capitol extension, for the purpose of afford- ing, at as early a day as possible, permanent protection to the eastern front, and the extensive foundations that had been laid for the steps and cheek blocks; to complete the porticoes of the connecting corridors, so that the roofing might be speedily fin- ished, and thus remove a prolific source of deterioration to the building; to afford such temporary protection to the upper surfaces of the exposed walls of the building as might be found to be expedient, in view of the length of time that would neces- sarily elapse before the work could be completed; and to finish the granite steps of the basement. The work has been steadily prosecuted in accordance with this plan. The porticoes of the two eastern corridors have been finished, and it is expected that those on the western front will be completed and the roof laid over them before the close of the season. The massive entrances to the eastern porticoes are more than half completed; the steps of the western arcades are finished, and the temporary protection to the exposed walls of the building, recommended by the architect, has been afforded. 814 Documentary History of the Capitol. The amount of available appropriation, when the work was resumed under the supervision of this Department, was $356,107 24. Of this there has been expended, up to October 31, 1862, the sum of $99,099 09, leaving an unexpended balance of $257,008 15. This sum will be sufficient to continue the work until the close of the present fiscal year. An appropriation of $500,000 will be necessary for the next fiscal year. The aggregate amount of all the appropriations made for the Capitol extension is $6,283,621 74. It is estimated by the architect that additional appropriations, to the amount of $600,000, will be required to complete the work. This will make the entire cost of the Capitol extension, when completed, $6,883,621 74. [House of Representatives. Ex. Doc. No. 35, 37th Congress, 3d Session. Letter from the Secretary of the Interior, transmitting estimates for the Capitol Extension and new Dome. January 16, 1863. — Referred to the Committee of Ways and Means, and ordered to be printed.] Department of the Interior, January 15, 1863. Sir: I have the honor to submit the following estimates, accompanied by a letter from B. B. French, esq., Commissioner of Public Buildings; also a printed report of Thomas U. Walter, architect of the Capitol extension, asking an appropriation — For the Capitol extension $500,000 * * * I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, J. P. Usher, Secretary. Hon. Gtalusha A. Grow, Speaker of the House of Representatives. Office of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, Capitol of the United, States, Washington, January 15, 1863. Sir: I have just ascertained that there has been no estimate submitted to Congress for an appropriation for completing the Capitol extension or new dome. In a conversation with your predecessor as to whether I should include those improvements in my estimates, he said that Mr. Walter, the architect, had sent in an estimate, which would be sufficient. Secretary Smith mentions the subject in his report to the President, thus leading us all to suppose that the items were in the regular estimates. They have, however, been undoubtedly accidentally omitted. By referring to the architect’s report, page 8, you will see that he estimates for the Capitol extension for the next fiscal year $500,000, and at page 10, for the new dome, $200,000. These estimates having been omitted in the regular estimates of the Secretary, I most respectfully request that you will submit to the Committee of Ways and Means of the House and the Committee on Finance of the Senate, the following items: For continuing the work on the Capitol extension for the next fiscal year.. $500,000 * * * I am, with high respect, your obedient servant, B. B. French, Commissioner of Public Buildings, and Disbursing Agent Capitol extension and new dome. Hon. J. P. Usher, Secretary of the Interior. The Extensions. 815 REPORT OF THE ARCHITECT OF THE CAPITOL EXTENSION. Architect’s Office, United States Capitol, Washington, I>. C., November 1, 1862. Sir: I have the honor to lay before you the following report of the state and prog- ress of the works of the United States Capitol extension and the new dome during the past year: These works were suspended on the 15th of May, 1861, by order of the Secretary of War, under whose jurisdiction they were then being prosecuted. On the 16th of April, 1862, a joint resolution of Congress was approved by the President, transfer- ring the control of them to the Department of the Interior; and on the 30th of the same month the work was resumed under the limitations and conditions of the said resolution of transfer, of which the following is a copy: Be it resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the supervision of the Capitol extension and the erection of the new dome be, and the same is hereby, transferred from the War Department to the Department of the Interior. And all unexpended money which has been heretofore appropriated, and all money which may be hereafter appropriated for either of the improvements heretofore mentioned, shall be expended under the direction and supervision of the Secretary of the Interior: Provided, That no money heretofore appro- priated shall be expended upon the Capitol until authorized by Congress, except so much as is neces- sary to protect the building from injury by the elements and to complete the dome. Approved April 16, 1862. My instructions from the department, in view of the foregoing resolution, were to prosecute the work on the two eastern entrances of the Capitol extension, for the purpose of affording, at as early a day as possible, permanent protection to the east- ern front, and the extensive foundations that had been previously laid for the steps and cheek blocks; to finish the colonnades of the connecting corridors, so as to admit of the completion of the roof and gutters of the same, and thus remove a prolific source of deterioration to the building; to afford such temporary protection to the upper surfaces of all the exposed walls as might be found necessary, in view of the length of time that will unavoidably elapse before the work can be completed; to finish the granite steps of the basement; and to proceed with the construction of the new dome as rapidly as might be consistent with a proper execution of the work. The following exhibits the progress that has been made in accordance with these instructions: THE CAPITOL EXTENSION. The Jive monolithic columns which remained to complete the colonnades of the connecting corridors have been set; the entablatures and marble ceilings of the two colonnades on the eastern front have been finished, and those on the western front are so far advanced as to lead me to hope that they may be completed and the roof laid over them before the close of the season. The delay in this portion of the work has been occasioned by the want of some of the ceiling pieces which were not quarried at the time the order was given to resume operations, and which it has been found impracticable to obtain as rapidly as they were required. It should be remarked that the suspension of the work at the breaking out of the rebellion caused a total suspension of operations at the quarries; it was therefore a work of time to reorganize the forces and to get the quarries in proper working order. Much delay has also been caused by the scarcity of such vessels as are adapted to convey the marble from the depot at Bridgeport, Connecticut, to Washington, the most of these vessels being directly or indirectly in the employ of government. The contractors have now, however, overcome these difficulties, and the delivery of the marble hereafter will no doubt be quite up to our requirements. A very large cargo is now being unloaded at the wharf in Washington, another cargo is hourly expected, and a third is now being shipped at Bridgeport, all containing blocks which are most needed for the portions of the work now in progress. 816 Documentary History of the Capitol. The steps, cheek blocks, and carriage ways of the two eastern entrances are more than half completed, and a large quantity of marble is wrought for the remainder. In these portions of the work 2,151 lineal feet of steps and platforms have been set, and in the cheek blocks and carriage ways about 16,500 cubic feet of marble, all of which has been done in the most accurate and workmanlike manner. The granite steps of the western arcades have all been permanently laid since the resumption of the work, and the flagging for the terraces over the vaults between the old and the new buildings is in progress. The process of cleaning the exterior marble work has been commenced, and it is found that the portions of the building which were first constructed are entirely free from stains and defacement, and are as pure and beautiful as when they came from the hands of the workmen. The stains which marred the appearance of some of the stones shortly after they were laid have all bleached out, and it can scarcely be doubted that every block of marble in the building would have eventually been free from discoloration had not the use of asphaltum been subsequently resorted to. All the stones that were laid during the later years of the progress of the work were thickly coated on their backs and beds with that substance, and it is to be feared that a permanent discoloration will be the result. Besides the staining of the surface, the asphaltum is found to exude from many of the joints, all of which will, however, be cleaned off and securely calked, and it is probable that in a few years the asphaltum will harden and this cause of defacement be thus abated. It is greatly to be regretted that such a substance should have been so lavishly used in a white marble building, and it is proper for me to say that its application to the marble of the Capitol exten- sion never met my approbation, and that its use has been entirely abandoned since the resumption of the work. The stones which were defaced and mutilated during the suspension of the work by evil-disposed persons or by accident are being repaired by days’ workmen. The cost of these repairs, to October 31, 1862, amounts to $770. The top of the walls, which remain exposed to the weather, have been covered with tin, laid on a sheathing of rough boards, and such conductors and gutters have been made as were found to be necessary to prevent any further deterioration of the building, or defacement of the interior stucco embellishments, until the porticos can be constructed and the roof properly finished. This temporary roofing has cost $621 75. Nothing has been done during the past year towards the completion of the interior of the building, except the prosecution of the painting on the wall of the western stairway of the south wing, entitled “Western Emigration,” by Mr. E. Leutze. The proviso attached to the law transferring the works of the Capitol extension and new dome to the Department of the Interior arrested the execution of this picture; but it was afterwards authorized b} r a law of Congress, approved July 5, 1862, and it is now completed, with the exception of an elaborate pictorial border which surrounds it. This will be finished and the scaffolding removed during the present month. The cost of this painting will be $20,000, of which $11,000 have already been paid. The picture of the “Storming of Chepultepec, ” painted on canvas, by Mr. James Walker, and intended for the room of the Committee on Military Affairs of the House of Representatives, was finished and ready for delivery at the time of the sus- pension of the work, and $2,120 had previously been paid upon it by the govern- ment. It has since been delivered, and Mr. Walker has been paid the balance of his claim. The whole cost of the picture was $6,000. At the last advices from Rome the plaster models for the bronze valves of one of the eastern front doors were completed; but the models for the valves of the other door had not been commenced, nor had anything been done in reference to them beyond the studies and sketches which were completed before the death of Mr. Crawford. An agreement exists with Mr. F. Yon Muller, at Munich, to cast these The Extensions. 817 valves, in bronze, for $10,500; but none of the models have been forwarded to the foundery, and no payment has yet been made by the government on account of them. The bronze door ordered of Mr. Randolph Rogers was completed more than a year ago, and remains at Munich, awaiting the orders of the government. The sum of $16,429 has been paid on account of it, and it will require about $12,000 to pay the balance due upon it, including interest, storage, and other expenses, to this date. The door is composed entirely of bronze, back and front, and is said to be the only work of the kind in the world which is thus constructed; its weight is 20,000 pounds. The leading subject of its embellishments is the history of Columbus. It lias two valves, with four panels in each valve, and one semicircular panel over the transom. The first panel (beginning at the bottom of the left hand valve) contains a scene rep- resenting Columbus before the council of Salamanca; the second panel, his leaving the convent of La Rabida; the third panel, his audience before Ferdinand and Isa- bella; the fourth panel, his departure from Palos; the semicircular panel over the transom represents his first landing at San Salvador; the fifth panel, his first encoun- ter with the Indians on the Island of Hispaniola; the sixth panel, his triumphal entry into Barcelona; the scene in the seventh panel represents him a prisoner in chains about to be sent back to Spain; and the eighth panel contains a scene representing his death. There are sixteen small niches in the border or frame around the door, in which are sixteen statuettes representing distinguished contemporaries of Colum- bus, and between the panels are heads representing historians who have written on his voyages from his own time down to the present day, ending with Irving and Pres- cott. Crowning the door is a bust of Columbus. The ornaments are chiefly emblem- atic of conquest ami navigation. This door was originally intended to be put up between the old Hall of Repre- sentatives and the corridor leading to the south wing. My own opinion is, that this would not be a suitable place for it, as there is nothing in the location that requires such a door, nor is there any reason why an opening so entirely subordinate and unimportant in the design of the building should be embellished with so mag- nificent and expensive a work of art. The door which closes this opening should correspond with the main entrance door of the present Hall of Representatives which stands opposite it. Besides, were Mr. Rogers’s door put up in this passage it could never be seen to any advantage; it would stand in the common thoroughfare through the building, and, consequently, it could never remain closed during the sessions of Congress; its valves would necessarily be always folded back into the jambs, thus sacrificing the whole effect of the composition. In view of these considerations, I respectfully recommend that this door be placed in the eastern front of the centre building, and be made to constitute the principal entrance to the Capitol. In this situation its elaborate decorations would be seen to advantage, having the full benefit of light and shade, and there would be nothing to prevent its occasionally remaining closed. Elaborate decorations have been commenced and left in an unfinished state in the anteroom of the Senate, in the Senate post office, in the room occupied by the ser- geant-at-arms of the Senate, and in the post office of the House of Representatives. These portions of the building have consequently a very unsightly appearance. I would, therefore, respectfully suggest that the decorations which have thus been commenced be completed, with such modifications in the original designs as may be consistent with what has already been executed. I do not consider it necessary or expedient at the present time to commence the decorations of the walls and ceilings of any of the rooms or passages that are not already in progress. These may be deferred to more peaceful times. My only desire is, in reference to the decorative painting, to complete that which has been begun, and to repair that which has been defaced. H. Rep. 646 -52 818 Documentary History of the Capitol. There are now on the grounds of the Capitol, and on the surrounding streets and avenues, 1,160 blocks of unwrought marble, containing in the aggregate about 70,000 cubic feet, which have been inspected and approved for the several parts of the work, each piece having been quarried for a specific place in the building. These have all been paid for by the government. There are also 613 blocks of marble, containing in the aggregate 41,620 cubic feet, which have been found, upon inspection, to be insufficient in size for the portions of the work for which they were intended, or which are in some other way partially defective. These blocks have from time to time been suspended, and remain unpaid for. A portion of them may, however, be brought into the work at reduced dimensions. Besides these, there are 132 blocks of marble, amounting in the aggregate to 3,080 cubic feet, which have been condemned, and which should be removed from the grounds by the contractors without delay. There are 1,012 blocks of wrought marble on the ground, amounting in the aggre- gate to 47,300 cubic feet, the application of which will be as follows: For the eastern porticos 7, 500 cubic feet. For the north and south porticos 23,600 “ For the western porticos 11, 500 “ For the connecting corridors 1,600 “ For the eastern steps, cheek blocks, &c 3,100 “ The marble yet required to complete the work, in addition to what has already been received, amounts to 1,100 blocks, containing in the aggregate 58,600 cubic feet. This quantity will, however, be reduced by whatever amount of suspended stone there may be now on the ground which may hereafter be applied to the work at reduced dimensions, as before stated. Since the date of the last report fire monolithic shafts for the columns of the eastern porticos have been delivered, making in all 29 of these shafts now on the ground and in the building, leaving 5 of the original order of 34 yet to be delivered. < >n the 2d of July last 26 more were ordered, by direction of the department, making in all 60 shafts for which orders have been issued, that being the number required for the two eastern porticos and the connecting corridors. There are now at the quarries in Baltimore county, Maryland, several of these monoliths, ready for deliv- ery, but which have been detained by the continued occupation of the railroad by the government. The contractors assure me that, should they be able to obtain from the railroad company the ordinary facilities for transportation, they will have no difficulty in filling this order by the 1st of July, 1863. The northern, southern, and western porticos will require 40 more of these shafts, which the contractors are willing to obligate themselves to deliver by the 1st of January, 1864, provided they receive an early order for them, that they may be enabled to make preparations during the winter for more extensive operations in the quarries. As a large quantity of the marble required in these porticos is already wrought, and as no effectual and permanent protection can be afforded to the build- ing against the action of the elements until they are constructed, 1 respectfully recommend that the balance of the aforesaid monolithic shafts be ordered immedi- ately, and that the work on all the porticos be prosecuted as rapidly as possible. There are remaining on the grounds and in the shops of the Capitol the following quantities of variegated and fancy marble, none of which will be required for the work: Of variegated Tennessee marble, 138 blocks, containing in the aggregate 1,995 cubic feet, the cost of which was about §11, 000 Of sawed remnants of the same, about 1,105 cubic feet, the cost of which, in the rough, was about 6, 000 The Extensions. 819 Of Potomac marble, 15 pieces, containing in the aggregate 119 cubic feet, the cost of which was $476 Of green serpentine, called Vermont verd-antique marble, 802 cubic feet, and 8 column shafts, the aggregate cost of which was 5, 334 Of Italian marble, in sawed remnants, about 2,600 cubic feet, the aggregate cost of which was about 7, 150 Also, remnants of other fancy marbles, which have cost about 600 Making an aggregate of about 30, 560 All of these marbles should be disposed of as soon as fair prices can be obtained for them, not only on account of the large sum of money that is thus withdrawn from the funds of the Capitol, but also in consideration of the deterioration they are suffering and the space they occupy on the public grounds. The marble delivered by the contractors from the quarries at Lee, Mass., from September 30, 1861, to October 31, 1862, and which has been approved for the work, amounts to 11,914 cubic feet. There have been paid to the said contractors for mar- ble during the same period the sum of $22,974.63. The whole quantity of marble received and approved from the commencement of the work to October 31, 1862, with the cost of the same, is as follows: For the exterior. 447,516f cubic feet, from Lee, Mass., costing $788,705.13 29 monolithic shafts, from Baltimore county, costing 40, 600. 00 For the interior. 28,474 cubic feet, from Italy, costing $79,660.00 9,830 cubic feet, from Tennessee, costing 66,021.97 15,4094 cubic feet, from Lee, Mass., costing 28, 716. 31 22 monolithic shafts, for the south wing, costing 4, 400. 00 802 cubic feet of Vermont serpentine, costing 3,208.00 8 column shafts of the same, costing 2, 126. 00 119J cubic feet of Potomac marble, costing 476. 66 2044 cubic feet of Vermont marble, costing 553. 25 35J cubic feet of marble, from the Levant, costing 176. 66 15,611 lineal feet of marble skirting, extending around all the halls and rooms throughout the Capitol extension, costing 14, 397. 07 Total 1,029,041.05 The amount paid for cutting and setting marble during the past year is $26,361.51, making the total amount paid for this branch of labor, from the beginning of the work to October 31, 1862, $1,373,749.12. The number of bricks delivered during the year amounts to 80,667, the application of which has been chiefly to the foundations of the steps and the filling in on the top of the connecting corridors. Their aggregate cost is $685. 66. The total number of bricks received at the building, from the commencement of the work to October 31, 1862, amounts to 19,403,799. There have been received during the year 300 barrels of hydraulic cement, all of which have been applied to the work. The whole number of barrels of cement which have been used in the building, from the commencement of the work to October 31, 1862, amounts to 46,941. The application and cost of labor on the Capitol extension, from September 30, 1861, to October 31, 1862, has been as follows: * * * $21, 369. 39 820 Documentary History of the Capitol . Cash account of the Capitol extension. Amount available September 30, 1861 $356, 107. 24 Amount expended from September 30, 1861, to October 31, 1862 99 099 09 Leaving, on tbe 31st of October, 1862, an unexpended balance of. . 257, 008. 15 All of which will be expended by the end of the present fiscal year. An appropriation will be required for the next fiscal year of $500,000. * * * Tho. U. AY alter, Architect United States Capitol Extension, &c. Hon. Caleb B. Smith, Secretary of the Interior. [House proceedings of Feb. 28, 1863: Congressional Globe, 37 — 3, p. 1395.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1864 — The Clerk read as follows: For continuing the work on the Capitol extension, $500,000. Mr. Holman. I move to reduce that appropriation to $100,000. That is enough for the protection and preservation of the building. Half a million at this time for this purpose cannot be justified at all. We ought to reduce these expenditures wherever we can. The building at present answers all of the purposes for which we want it. On a division, there were — ayes 14, noes 50. Mr. Holman. All that I want is a vote on the amendment in the House. Will the gentleman agree to give me that? Mr. Stevens. I agree to that. The amendment was agreed to. The Clerk read, as follows: For continuing the work on the new dome of the Capitol, $200,000. Mr. McKnight. I move to add the following proviso : Provided, That the architect of the Capitol be, and he is hereby, authorized and directed to have the nondescript ornament removed, under the direction of the sculptor, from the head of the bronze statue of Liberty, before the same is elevated to its position on the apex of the Capitol dome. Mr. Maynard. I make the point that this is a substantive piece of legislation, and therefore not in order. The Chairman. The Chair sustains the point of order. Mr. Trowbridge. I move to reduce the appropriation for the Capitol dome from $200,000 to $50,000. Mr. Chairman, I have made this proposition in good faith. I have moved to strike out $200,000 and insert $50,000 for the work on the dome of this Capitol, because I think it ought to be done. Indeed I would prefer that both these para- graphs, which together provide for the expenditure of $700,000 for continuing the work on this Capitol, should be stricken out, and such sum only inserted as may be necessary to secure the work already commenced against the damage of the elements. When the terrible troubles by which we are now environed were first precipitated upon the country this work was under the management of the War Department. And the very worthy officer, Captain (now General) Meigs, who was in charge of it, foreseeing, with a sagacity which few possessed at that time, the magnitude of the contest and the enormous expenditures which the nation would be called upon to The Extensions. 821 make to preserve its existence, at once suspended the work, although lie had at the time an unexpended balance of appropriation in his hands amounting to near four hundred thousand dollars. I believe that Captain Meigs did right. And when, at the last session, the bill transferring the management of the work from the War to the Interior Department was introduced, and I expressed an apprehension that the design, or at least the effect of the transfer would be to resume the work, it was strenuously denied by the advocates of the transfer, and we were modestly asked simply to allow so much of that unexpended balance to be used as was necessary to protect and secure the exposed parts of the work from damage. But, sir, to-day the mask is thrown off, and we are asked to appropriate §700,000 to go on with a work which no sane man can regard as a necessity at this time. I trust we shall not do it. I trust the House will take this occasion to proclaim to the people, who are already groaning under the heavy load of taxation and debt, which we have been obliged to impose, that the funds which they intrust to us shall not be diverted to any purposes which are not necessary at this time, but shall be sacredly devoted to the great work which they demand at our hands — the crushing out of this wicked rebellion, and the preservation and restoration of their Government. For this purpose I have not faltered or hesitated, and shall not falter or hesitate, to vote for any sum however fabulous in amount. But, sir, this is the touchstone to which I have desired to bring every expenditure, “Will it advance the great cause which alone absorbs the thoughts of all the loyal people of this country to-day?” If not, then I cannot give it my support. Hence I voted against the great canal project which was defeated a few days ago, and in which, sir, I venture to say, the people of no district in the United States have more extensive and vital commercial interests than have the people of the district I represent. But it was not even pretended that this work could be completed in time to have any effect in deciding this great struggle; and however 1 might act under other circum- stances, I felt obliged, though differing from all my colleagues, to vote against it. I have thus briefly given the reasons why I have moved to reduce the amount to be expended on this Capitol, and I trust the committee will sustain the motion. Mr. White, of Indiana. I suggest that a separate vote be allowed upon this in the House. Objection being made, Tellers were ordered; and Mr. Holman, and Mr. Phelps of California, were appointed. Mi. Trowbkidge. I will withdraw the amendment. [House proceedings of Mar. 3, 1863: Congressional Globe, 37 — 3, p. 1539.] The House * * * proceeded to the consideration of the report of the Commit- tee of the Whole on the state of the Union on the civil appropriation bill. Mr. Holman. When the bill was under consideration in the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union it was agreed that a vote should be taken in the House on my amendment to reduce the appropriation for the Capitol extension from §500,000 to $100,000- The Speaker. The gentleman is entitled to a separate vote on the amendment. Mr. Holman. The amendment was not adopted in committee. There being, on division, no quorum present, I withdrew it with the understanding that there should be a separate vote on it in the House. Mr. Stevens. I do not understand that there was any such agreement. Mr. Holman. It was agreed to on this side of the House. Mr. Stevens. I have no objection that that amendment shall be offered and voted on. 822 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Holman. I move to strike out of the item for the Capitol extension the sum of $500,000, and insert in lieu thereof $100,000. Mr. Stevens. I move the previous question on the bill and amendments. The previous question was seconded, and the main question ordered. The question was taken on all the amendments reported from the Committee of the A hole on the state of the Union on which no separate vote was demanded, and they were agreed to. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 3, 1863: Congressional Globe, 37—3, p. 1514.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1864 — The President pro tempore. The reading of the bill will be proceeded with, and the Senator from Maine will indicate the proposed amendments of the Committee on Finance at the proper points. * * * The Secretary continued the reading of the bill down to the following clause: For continuing the work on the Capitol extension, $500,000. Mr. Fessenden. The committee propose to amend that clause by striking out“five hundred” and inserting “one hundred and fifty,” so as to make the appropriation $150,000. The amendment was agreed to. [From the “Act making Appropriations for sundry Civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending June thirty, eighteen hundred and sixty-four, and for the year ending the 30 of June, 1863, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1863. (Stats, at Large, v. 12, 748.)] For continuing the work on the Capitol extension, one hundred and fifty thousand dollars. [Annual report of Thomas TJ. Walter, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1863 (38 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 668).] Architect’s Office, United States Capitol, Washington, I>. C., November 1, 1863. Sir: I have the honor to submit the following report on the state of the public works under my charge, and their progress during the past year: CAPITOL EXTENSION. Marble work . — Since the date of my last annual report the eastern portico of the north wing has been constructed, with the exception of a few [tieces of the cornice, all of which are now in the hands of the workmen. All the marble required to complete the eastern entrance to the north wing is deliv- ered and wrought, except the caps for the cheek blocks. It is expected that this portion of the work will be completed before the close of the season. The marble for the steps, the cheek blocks and the carriage-way of the eastern entrance to the south wing, is delivered, with the exception of the caps for the cheek blocks, and the most of it is wrought and prepared for the work; 2,843 lineal feet of these steps are set, leaving but 687 feet to put in place to complete the entire flight. The setting of this part of the work has advanced as far as it has been found to be practicable, until the portico is constructed, inasmuch as all the materials for the superstructure must necessarily be hoisted from the carriage-way. The Extensions. 823 This portico, like that of the north wing, will consist of twenty-two marble columns, composed of monolithic shafts, pedestals, and elaborately wrought capitals, support- ing a highly ornamented entablature and a deeply panelled marble ceiling. Eight 01 the monolithic shafts for this portico are on the ground: one is wrought and pre- pared for the building, and one is partly finished; three of the pedestals and all the bases have been delivered; two of the pedestals, ten of the bases, and all the capitals are completed. The porticoes of the connecting corridors have been finished, and the roofing and gutters have been permanently laid. The inside marble jambs and head of the front door of the north wing have been wrought and set, and the workmen are now engaged in laying the marble floor of the vestibule, all of which will be finished before the meeting of Congress. The marble work has not progressed as rapidly as I anticipated at the opening of the season, in consequence of a deficiency in the supply of marble. The contractors have experienced great difficulty in obtaining men to work in the quarry; and they have found it almost impossible to procure vessels to convey the material to Wash- ington, notwithstanding they have paid, during the year, a rate of freight more than three times greater than the prices paid before the war. They are now, however, about making arrangements by which they will be able to furnish, during the coming year, all that may be required to complete the work. Had it been possible to obtain the marble sufficiently rapid, the eastern porticoes of both wings could have been finished, without difficulty, before the close of the present season; but the supply of such pieces as were most needed, being scarcely sufficient for one portico, it was deemed expedient to urge on that of the north wing to completion, so that the expensive apparatus used for raising the columns and other heavy blocks might be transferred to the south wing without incurring the expense of duplicating it. As soon, therefore, as the heavy work of the north portico is set, this machinery will be removed to the south wing, and the work of that portico will be urged on rapidly to completion. Nothing has been done during the year to the north, south, and west porticoes. It is desirable that these portions of the work be prosecuted as rapidly as the materials can be obtained; a large quantity of the marble required for their construction is already on the ground, and about 35,000 cubic feet of it are wrought, and prepared for the building. The contractors for furnishing marble have delivered, from the quarries at Lee, Massachusetts, since the date of my last annual report, 20,238 cubic feet, for which they have been paid the sum of $39,777.56. Also, from the quarries of Baltimore county, Maryland, seventeen monolithic column shafts for the exterior porticoes, for which they received the sum of $23,800. The marble yet required to complete the work, in addition to what has already Teen delivered, is 683 blocks, containing in the aggregate 38,362 cubic feet; also fifty - four monolithic shafts for the exterior porticoes. All the marble received and approved from the quarries at Lee, Massachusetts, for the exterior of the buildings, from the commencement of the work to the present date, amounts to 467,754f cubic feet, for which the contractors have been paid the aggregate sum of $828,482.69. They have also delivered forty-six monolithic column shafts from the quarries in Baltimore county, Maryland, for which they have received $64,400. The cost of all the marble used in the interior of the building, including Italian, variegated, and fancy marbles, exclusive of workmanship, amounts to $185,338.85. The variegated and fancy marbles remaining on the grounds and in the shops of the Capitol, which will not be required for the work, have cost about $30,000. The amount paid for cutting and setting marble from October 31, 1862, to Octo- ber 31, 1863, is $153,162.67, making the total amount paid for this branch of labor, from the beginning of the work to the present time, $1,526,911.79. 824 Documentary History of the Capitol. Granite work . — The granite platforms and steps between the old Capitol and the new wings, on the western front, have been laid, and the approaches to both wings from the west have been completed. The flagstone pavement on the east front, between the old building and the north wing, is in progress, and will be completed by the close of the season. Bricks . — The number of bricks delivered during the year amounts to 128,333, at an aggregate cost of $1,376.33. The number delivered from the commencement of the work to October 31, 1863, amounts to 19,532,132. Cement . — There have been received at the building, since the date of my last annual report, 405 barrels of cement, making 47,346 barrels received since the com- mencement of the work. Hoofing . — It has been found that the corrugated copper roofing, as it was originally laid, does not. afford full protection to the buildings. During the past winter the water backed up the slip joints, and the snow drifted through the laps in large quantities, saturating the walls and arches, and in some instances damaging the ornamental v'ork. It was at first proposed to remove the whole of this roofing, and to substitute flat copper, laid upon wooden sheating, with raised joints, in the usual manner; but it was considered doubtful whether suitable material could be obtained in time, or skilful workmen be found to lay it before the meeting of Congress; it was therefore decided to endeavor to correct the evil by improving the present roof so far as practi- cable. To accomplish this object, all the up and down lap joints have been riveted together and made as nearly water-tight as possible, depending upon the corruga- tions to meet any expansion and contraction that may arise from changes of tempera- ture. The slip joints have also been made water-tight by riveting, and provision has been made as far as it was found to be practicable to compensate for expansion and contraction in this direction also. The work has been thoroughly done, and I doubt not that its results will be satisfactory. These repairs have cost, including materials, $1,321.32. Gutters . — The gutters of both wings are made of cast iron, open on the top, with sleeve joints similar to those of ordinary water pipes; the joints are calked with hemp gaskets and red lead, in the usual manner. Although joints of this description are unobjectionable in round pipes, they can have no strength nor permanency in open gutters. Those of the Capitol extension do not keep out the water, and they will eventually cause great damage to the buildings if they remain unattended to. All these joints have been covered with pitch during the past summer, which will afford temporary protection until a permanent improvement can be made. As these gutters are much larger than are necessary, being 3| feet in width by 2 feet and upwards in depth, I propose to put, a lining of wood inside of them, covering the same with sheet copper, laid in the same manner as the copper gutters on the connecting corridors. The cost of this alteration will be about $7,500; and when it is done I have no doubt that the protection afforded to the buildings will be com- plete and permanent. Painting . — The walls and ceilings of the halls, passages and stairways of the principal and attic stories of the north wing have all been painted in flat tints, and prepared for a higher style of finish at some future time, should a greater degree of ornamentation be deemed desirable. It is proposed to have the walls and ceilings of the halls, passages, and stairways throughout the south wing painted in the same manner during the recess of Congress. The painting of the walls and ceilings of the Senate post office and the room of the Sergeant-at-arms of the Senate has been completed, with the exception of the frescoes; the designs for these are made, but it was considered expedient to defer their execution for the present. Statuary . — The group of statuary executed from the casts furnished by the late The Extensions. 825 Thomas Crawford, for the pediment of the eastern portico of the north wing, has been put in place and securely attached to the building by heavy copper clamps. These figures have all been executed in the shops of the Capitol extension of marble from the quarries at Lee, Massachusetts. The subject they are intended to represent is “ The progress of civilization." The two marble statues, Justice and History, which were executed in Italy, from the designs of Crawford, for the top of the front door of the north wing, have also been put in place. They are very beautiful figures, and form an appropriate and tasteful crowning ornament to the Senate entrance. The plaster models for the eastern front door of the north wing have been com- pleted by Rinehart, from the designs of Crawford. They have been shipped from Rome, and are now due at New York. The bronze castings for these doors will be executed in this country. All the sculpture for the eastern front of the north wing has therefore been designed by Crawford, viz: the group representing the progress of civilization, in the tympanum of the pediment, the group of Justice and History, over the front door, and the bronze doors for the main entrance, leaving the correspond- ing ornamentation of the south wing yet to be executed. The marble work of the south pediment is being executed with a receding tympanum, similar to that on the north wing, so as to admit of a group of sculpture whenever Congress may cause the order to be given. The cornice of the soutli front door is also left without sculpture, which may be supplied whenever it may be deemed expedient. And if the models for the bronze door of this wing, which were ordered of Crawford in 1855, have not been commenced, I respectfully suggest that the order be withdrawn, so as to leave the sculpture of this entire front to be designed and executed in this country. As it will require a long time to execute these doors in bronze, temporary wooden doors have been made for the entrances of both wings; these will be sufficient for all practical purposes until the permanent doors can be completed. The bronze door executed in Munich, from the designs of Mr. Randolph Rogers, has arrived at the Capitol, and is now being put up between the old hall of represent- atives and the corridor leading to the south wing. This is the location for which it was originally intended by the military engineer who was in charge of the work when the order was given. I objected to this locality in my last annual report, and gave several reasons why it would be preferable to place it at the principal entrance of the old Capitol. I find, however, after having seen the door, that it is not at all suitable for the exterior entrance of such a building; it has too much fine detail for outside exposure in a climate like this, and were it placed in the centre of the east- ern front, as proposed, its surroundings would not be in harmony with so magnifi- cent and elaborate a work of art. The eastern portico of the old building will cer- tainly be taken down at no very distant day, and the front be extended eastward, at least to the front line of the wings, so as to complete the architectural group, and, at the same time, afford additional accommodations to the legislative department of the government. When this improvement shall have been put in progress, the vestibule may be made a leading feature in the building, and it may be so designed as to be in harmony with this door, which can then be removed and made to serve the purposes of an inner, or vestibule door, where it will be protected from the weather, and where the architecture in connexion with it will be consistent with its form, and in harmony with its design. By an act of Congress approved March 3, 1855, the sum of $25,000 was appropriated “ to enable the President of the United States to contract with Hiram Powers for some work of art executed, or to be executed, by him, and suitable for the ornament of the Capitol By authority of this law a contract was made, on the 26th day of January, in the year 1859, by President Buchanan, with Mr. Hiram Powers, for statues of Franklin and 826 Documentary History of the Capitol. Jefferson, at $10,000 for each statue, to be delivered at New York. The former arrived at the Capitol in November of last year, and the latter during the past month. Franklin has been placed on a temporary pedestal in the niche opposite the eastern stairway of the north wing, on the principal floor; and Jefferson is about to be sim- ilarly placed in the corresponding niche opposite the eastern stairway of the south wing. Days’ workmen. The application and cost of labor on the Capitol extension, exclusive of the work done by contract, from October 31, 1862, to October 31, 1863, has been as follows: * * * Cash account of the Capitol extension. Amount available October 31, 1862 $257, 008. 15 Appropriated March 3, 1863 150, 000. 00 407, 008. 15 Amount expended from October 31, 1862, to October 31, 1863 373, 296. 08 Leaving, on 31st of October, 1863, an unexpended balance of 33, 712. 07 In order to continue the work without interruption, an appropriation will be required early in the session, for the balance of the present fiscal year, of $150,000, and an appropriation for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1865, of $300,000. The following is a list of all the appropriations which have been made for the extension of the Capitol, from the commencement of the work to the present time: * * * $6, 433, 621. 74 The expenditures from the commencement of the work up to October 31, 1863, amount to _ 6, 399, 909. 67 Leaving a balance of appropriation, as before stated, of 33, 712. 07 * * * Hon. J. P. Usher, Secretary of the Interior. Tho. U. Walter, Architect of the United States Capitol Extension, &c. [From the annual report of J. P. Usher, Secretary of the Interior, Dec. 5, 1863. (38 — 1, House Ex. Doc. 1, p. xi.)] Satisfactory progress has been made on the work of the Capitol extension and new dome, notwithstanding the difficulties encountered in obtaining the marble for the former, and artisans of the requisite skill and experience for the peculiar character of the work to be done on the latter. Since the last annual report from this Department the eastern portico of the north wing has been constructed, and much work done on that of the south wing. The porticos of the connecting corridors, and the granite platforms and steps between the old or central portions of the building and the new wings, as well as the approaches to both wings on the western front, have also been completed. It is expected that the eastern entrance to the north wing will also be finished the present season. The group of statuary which was executed here in marble, from models made by the late Thomas Crawford, for the pediment of the eastern portico of the north wing, designed to represent “the progress of civilization,” and the statues of “Justice” and “History,” which were also designed by Crawford, and executed in Italy, have been put in their respective places, and attract much attention and merited admiration. The Extensions. 827 The expensive and elaborately wrought bronze door, designed by Randolph Roger.-, and cast at the Bavarian foundery, in Munich, and the marble statues of Franklin and Jefferson, executed in Italy, by Hiram Powers, under a contract made by your immediate predecessor, under the authority of an act of Congress, have also been received and placed in appropriate positions in the building. All these works of art, and a few others not yet completed, were exempted from the restrictions which were imposed upon the embellishment of the Capitol with statuary and paintings by the recent legislation of Congress. [House proceedings of Jan. 2C, 1804: Congressional Globe, 38 — 1, p. 355.] The House, as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union, having under consideration the bill to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the service of the fiscal year 1864 — - Mr. Kernan. I move to amend this section by adding thereto, as a proviso, the following: Provided , That no money hereby appropriated shall be expended on the Capitol extension, or in continuing the north wing of the Treasury extension beyond wliat may be necessary to protect the said buildings from injuries. I notice among the miscellaneous items we have appropriated $250,000 for the purpose of carrying on the north wing Treasury extension, and $150,000 for continu- ing the extension of the Capitol. Now, sir, I believe each of these buildings contain abundant accommodations for the present public business. We certainly are engaged in a struggle which taxes all the financial resources of the United States, and it seems to me we may very well postpone ornamenting the exterior of one of these buildings, and the further extending the other, until we have more means for such purposes than now, and when taxation shall not be as onerous as it necessarily is now, in order to carry on this war. And I think, unless we begin with bills like this, and cut down expenditures by the hundreds of thousands of dollars upon matters which are not of pressing importance, we are hardly doing our duty to the country in the present state of things. If there be a necessity of expending a por- tion of these sums for protecting those buildings from the effects of the weather, no one will object, and I have put the proviso in that form. But to go on doing work, and putting it up for ornament more than from any necessity, is not proper in the present state of our country and of its finances. Again, this money is being expended in times when labor and materials are very high ; and it cannot be claimed that it is important to keep these laborers in the employment of the Government, because there is a great demand for their labor, and hence no hardship will be done toward them. I trust, therefore, we will limit this expenditure to that amount which shall be found necessary to protect the buildings, and let their completion await a time when the Treasury can more easily afford it. Mr. Stevens. If I understand the amendment, it seems to me to be out of order at this point. We have passed the appropriation to which it refers. The Chairman. The Chair would state that a proviso limiting an appropriation has always been held to be in order. Mr. Stevens. The amendment does not apply to this part of the bill. The Chairman. It applies to the entire bill, or to any part of the bill. Mr. Stevens. Let the amendment be read again. The amendment was again read. Mr. Stevens. When we were upon the question of continuing the completion of the Capitol, a motion was made to reduce the appropriation from $150,000 to $50,000, 828 Documentary Jit story of the Capitol. and the House voted down the amendment. I suppose that to be a full expression of the wish of the House to continue the work now under way to completion. Shortly after the commencement of this war, the question arose in Congress whether we should stop all further progress on the public buildings here until the war was over, and, after a very full discussion in this House, the House, by a very large majority, decided that as a question of economy, the hands being all here and the materials here, it was better to proceed with the w r ork. Besides that, it seemed to the House that it would not look very well to stop the work on the public buildings simply because there is an insurrection in the South. They thought it best to go on making appropriations for these purposes so as to give confidence to the country that we were still to possess this capital and complete these buildings. And now that this work is drawing to a close, it seems to me that it would be very bad economy to dismiss the hands now here and stop the work. I hope, therefore, that the amendment will not be adopted. Mr. Pbice. I move to amend the amendment by striking out the last word. I only desire to say that the gentleman from New York [Mr. Kernan] has saved me the trouble of offering this amendment. I have examined this deficiency bill Avith a good deal of anxiety. I am satisfied that we are not legislating on these matters as our constituents would desire. I undertake to say, and I believe that in saying so I express the sentiment of three fourths of the gentlemen upon this side of the House, that eA r ery dollar’s worth of Avork upon the public buildings Avhich is not necessary and essential ought to be stopped until this rebellion is over. We go on here mak- ing large appropriations for these objects Avhen Ave have not yet made appropriations to pay the pensions of the men Avho have lost their legs and arms in the defense of the country, and who are sitting at home to-day, Avith their helpless families around them, Avithout any means of support. There is no earthly necessity for this appro- priation at this time. 1 want gentlemen to look into this matter. I want to see who here is ready to vote hundreds of thousands of dollars for these jmrposes, when Ave all know that the Avork can be dispensed with until the war is ended and the rebellion crushed. I do not believe that this country is bankfupt. It never will be so long as there are stout hearts and braA T e arms in the country. I know that the country is full of money. 1 am willing to appropriate for all propter purposes, but I am opposed to making appropriations at this time for these purposes. Let us w r ait. until the war is over. Let us put the money w r here it is needed. Let the wives of our soldiers Avho have been made Avidows, and the children of our soldiers who have been made orphans, know that Ave care for them Avhile we hold up a defiant front to the A'illians in the South and their sympathizers all over the country. Let us not vote a dollar here that is not essentially necessary for the carrying on of this war and for the support of the Government. Let us show to the country that Ave are earnest and honest in our purpose to carry on this war to its completion. Mr. Scofield. I wish to inquire if the clause to Avhich the amendment of the gen- tleman from New York [Mr. Kernan] relates can be amended so as to strike out a portion of the $150,000? The Chairman. It cannot Avithout unanimous consent. The committee has passed from its consideration. Mr. Scofield. Then it seems to me that the gentleman from New York might as well withdraw his amendment, because they Avould certainly spend the $150,000 in protecting the building. Mr. Kernan. My amendment is that they shall not expend more than $50,000. Mr. Scofield. If Ave can limit them to a specific sum, I will vote Avith the gentle- man from New Y r ork for his amendment; but if we leave them sufficient latitude to enable them to spend the whole amount in merely protecting the building, I am afraid every single dollar of the appropriation Avill be used for that purpose by some hook or crook. The Extensions. 829 The amendment to the amendment was disagreed to. Mr. Boutwell. I move to amend the amendment of the gentleman from New York by striking out the last word. I do it for the purpose of saying to the com- mittee that, having watched with such care as I could the proceedings of the House with reference to the appropriation of public money I think the time has come when all friends of the country should establish a principle for the guidance of this Govern- ment. That principle, in my judgment, should be that, there should be no expendi- ture of public money that is not absolutely necessary for the maintenance of the Government and the prosecution of the war. We are expending somewhere from four to six hundred millions a year, which can only be met by taxation on the peo- ple; and this Congress cannot adjourn, with safety to the financial reputation of the country, without imposing a still more onerous system of taxation than has been yet introduced. While this country is not on the verge of bankruptcy, it is impossible for us to raise a sufficient sum of money on credit for the prosecution of the war. It must be done by taxation. Now, while I am here prepared to vote taxation which shall absorb the last dollar of the property of my constituents for the purpose of prosecuting the war, I am resolved not to incur knowingly the responsibility of voting for appropriations not necessary to the existence of the Government and the maintenance of the integrity of the Union. I say that the time has come when this House shall so express its judgment, and when all its committees shall understand, that no sanction is to be given to an appropriation not based upon necessity. I submit with all deference to the chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means, and to other committees of the House, that it is our duty to the country to insist on the recognition and enforcement of that right which exists primarily in this House as the guardian of the Treasury. Mr. Morris, of Ohio. Mr. Chairman, there is an old adage that we may be penny- wise and pound-foolish. Having been a member of the Committee on Public Build- ings and Grounds last Congress, my attention was somewhat directed to the question of the completion of these public buildings. These public buildings are incomplete; they are in such a condition as renders it absolutely necessary that they should be protected from the weather; and if an appropriation of $150,000 or of $500,000 be required for the completion of these buildings, what comparison would either sum bear to the entire annual expenditure of the Government? I therefore repeat that, in these questions, we may be penny-wise and pound-foolish. Mr. Boutwell. I withdraw my amendment. Mr. Ivernan. The appropriation to which my amendment applies is not one of $150,000, but of $400,000. I know very well that there are cases in which we might be penny-wise and pound-foolish; but I submit that it is not such a case when we simply propose to stop spending money for the raising of marble columns around the public buildings, when the columns that support this Union — the States — are in dan- ger of being overthrown and destroyed. I trust that we will husband our resources to do Avhat is necessary to protect these buildings from injury, and let their comple- tion be deferred till an appropriate time. This would not discommode anything; it would not prevent us having proper buildings for the public service. It would simply stop this expenditure of money by half millions, on mere ornamentation, at a time when we require all the financial means of the Government to preserve it by prosecuting the war. Mr. Brooks called for tellers on Mr. Kernan’s amendment. Tellers were ordered; and Messrs. Kernan and Orth were appointed. The committee divided; and the tellers reported — ayes 71, noes 37. So the amendment was agreed to. 830 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House proceedings of Jan. 27, 1864: Congressional Globe, 38 — 1, 372.] The House having under consideration the amendments of the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union to the bill to supply deficiencies in the appropria- tions for the service of the fiscal year 1864 — The amendments of the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union on which a separate vote was not asked were severally read and concurred in. Ninth amendment: Provided , That no money hereby appropriated shall be expended on the Capitol extension, or in continuing the north wing of the Treasury extension, beyond what may be necessary to protect said buildings from injury. Mr. Stevens demanded the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered. Mr. Stevens. I have a word to say before the vote is taken. The Speaker. It has been the usage for the gentleman reporting a bill to be heard after the main question has been ordered, but not after the amendments of the Com- mittee of the Whole on the state of the Union have partly been voted upon. Mr. Stevens. I ask the unanimous consent. There was no objection. Mr. Stevens. I wish to call the attention of the House to the effect of this amend- ment, which cuts off all appropriations for finishing the work on the Capitol and Treasury extensions, and only allows them to be covered in. I ask whether it is any economy at all to dismiss the artists and laborers employed upon these grand works now near completion, to dismiss them at this season of the year to their distress and the distress of their families, and with the fact staring us in the face that they will have to be recalled here at great expense when the work has to be renewed. Now I will venture to say that there is no more creditable work to this or any other nation, to be found anywhere, than this Capitol and the Treasury building are. This Capitol is a model for all buildings of the kind everywhere. And now it is proposed to leave the dome of this Capitol unfinished, a dome not inferior to that of any of the cathedrals in Germany ; and indeed I do not know but that it exceeds them all. I think that motives of humanity, national pride, and economy, all require that the amendment should be disagreed to, and that the work should be allowed to go on. I thank the House for its indulgence. The question on agreeing to the ninth amendment was taken ; and it was decided in the negative — yeas 56, nays 77. * * * So the amendment was disagreed to. [Senate Mis. Doc. No. 15, 38th Congress, 1st session. Report of Thomas TT. Walter, Architect of United States Capitol Extension, made to the Secretary of the Interior, January 14, 1864, in relation to the appropriation for carrying on the work on the two Eastern Porticoes and steps of the Capitol Extension. January 27, 1864. — Ordered to lie on the table and be printed.] Architect’s Office, United States Capitol, Washington, D. C., January 14, 1864. Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 11th instant, and I respectfully proceed to answer the inquiries it contains. A copy of the estimate furnished by me to the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, of the Senate, “for carrying on the work of the two eastern porticoes and steps of the Capitol extension, and completing the roofs of the connecting corridors for nine months,” is hereto appended. I remember to have stated verbally to Senator Foot, also to Senator Collamer, that I believe the sum of §150,000, in addition to the unexpended balance of §184,000 then on hand, would The Extensions. 831 be sufficient to complete the aforesaid porticoes and pay for the bronze doors; and that it was my opinion that both of the said porticoes would be completed by the assembling of the present Congress. You will observe that the estimate referred to was made on the 3d of February, 1863; it was, therefore, based upon the prices paid for work and materials during the previous season. The great increase, since that time, in the price of everjdhing per- taining to building has vastly augmented the cost of the work, and has conspired, with other circumstances to which I will refer hereafter, to render the estimated sum entirely inadequate to accomplish the amount of work that was anticipated at the time the appropriation was made. As far as it regards the expected rate of progress of the work, I may say that the only data we could have upon which to form an opinion was the assurances of the contractors who furnish the marble that the quantity required should be delivered in time to enable us to accomplish the completion of the two porticoes in question before the assembling of Congress. The cause of the delay is the failure of these contractors to furnish the marble as rapidly as it was required; the reason they assign is the impossibility of obtaining vessels to convey it from Bridgeport, Connecticut, to Washington. The cost of trans- portation before the war was at one time as low as $1 75 per ton, but during the past year they have paid as high as $6 per ton, and the most of the time vessels were not to be obtained at any price. Owners of vessels are afraid of such freight, and when other business can be obtained they refuse it altogether. The contractors have been compelled, in some instances, to send only portions of cargoes, permitting captains to take assorted freight to other places, thus causing much vexatious delay. Such a cargo, containing some of the blocks for the portico of the south wing, is now lying at Norfolk, Virginia, discharging government stores. When the captain finds it convenient, he will, no doubt, come to Washington and discharge the marble. I have used every possible exertion to urge on the contractors to hasten the delivery of the material, and I feel satisfied that they have been as anxious to bring it as we have been to receive it. Their bills have been paid the moment the marble has been delivered and inspected, and they have been kept advised of the exact number and dimensions of the blocks required, specifying from time to time those that were first wanted; we could do no more. In view of these facts, I have to repeat, that the only cause of our failing to finish these porticoes before the assembling of the present Congress was the want of mar- ble. This difficulty could not have been anticipated by me, and the means to over- come it were entirely beyond my control. There has been no lack of workmen in the other "branches of the work, and I doubt not that had the marble been on the ground, and the appropriation been sufficient, not only the two eastern porticoes, but the marble work of the entire Capitol might have been completed before the assembling of the present Congress. I now respectfully ask you to consider a few facts in relation to the amount of work actually done on the aforesaid two eastern porticoes during the past year; also to the expenditures during the same period. I find, from your letter before me, that Senator Foot says, in reference to the porticoes in question, “ that while the appropriation was now exhausted, the work was not half finished.” The present condition of these porticoes, unattended by a proper explanation, is calculated to lead any casual observer to the conclusion to which the honorable senator has arrived, but I trust that I shall not find it difficult to show that both of these porticoes are not so far from completion as their appearance would seem to indicate. All the marble for the north portico is wrought and paid for, except four stones, and these are in hand and nearly completed; the cutting only of these four stones remains to he paid for, and that is all. The contractors receive nothing for setting; hence every stone that is finished and paid for may be considered as set in the building, so 832 Documentary History of the Capitol. far as regards expenditure on the part of the government. Now, in view of this fact, the marble work of the portico of the north wing is virtually within four stones of being completed. The remaining pieces of cornice, which are not yet set, are all hoisted on the building and are temporarily placed behind the pediment, on the ceiling of the portico, to be put in place as soon as the aforesaid four pieces of cornice now in hand are completed and set. The steps are nearly all wrought, and are lying ready to be put in place the moment the hoisting apparatus can be taken down. As to the portico of the south wing, you will observe that the immense flight of steps, with its massy cheek blocks, is nearly completed; this is a very considerable portion of the entire work. A large amount of the superstructure is also wrought, including cornices, ceiling-pieces, and the entire balustrade; all the elaborately carved capitals are also completed and paid for. The chief work to be done to this portico is that of the monolithic shafts; of these, ten yet remain to be delivered. I have made a careful estimate of the cost of completing both of the porticoes in question, including the copper roofing, the inside brick work, the iron work, and everything necessary to make an entire finish, and find that it will amount to $135,000, as follows: For marble required to finish the portico and steps of the north wing, including workmanship, brickwork, and materials $3, 180. 92 For marble required to finish the portico and steps of the south wing, including workmanship, brickwork, and materials 88, 758. 17 For iron work 635. 87 For copper roofing 4, 823. 50 For carpenter’s work, lumber, &c 651, 00 For laborers, watchmen, clerk-hire, &c 25, 000. 00 For incidental expenses, say 11, 950. 54 135, 000. 00 I have therefore to say, that the estimate of $301,040 for carrying on the work on these porticoes, which I had the honor to submit to the chairman of the Commit- tee on Public Buildings and Grounds on the 3d of February last, was entirely inade- quate to effect the completion of these portions of the work. Many things, not considered in making the estimate, were found to be necessary to be done for the preservation of the work, and for promoting the convenience of Congress, such as the extensive repairs which have been done on the roofs of both wings, the completion of the granite work of the western entrances to the connecting corridors, &c. ; besides which there were some large amounts of retained per-centage ordered by the depart- ment to be paid to contractors, and which were, of course, not considered in my estimate; so that the difference between what the work has actually cost, and the amount set down in the estimate, is chiefly to be attributed to the circumstances of the times, and to expenditures which could not be anticipated by me. You request me to furnish you with a copy of any correspondence I may have had with the members of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, or Finance, on the subject of the aforesaid estimate. In reply, I have to say that I have had no correspondence whatever with any of the members of these committees touching the matter in question. An appropriation of $500,000 had passed the House of Repre- sentatives for continuing the work of the Capitol extension; and just before the bill was reached in the Senate, Senators Foot and Collajiek called upon me and expressed a desire to reduce the appropriation, so as to confine the work to the two eastern porticoes, and the liquidation of the claims for the bronze doors; and they wished me to say how much it would require to accomplish these objects. I immediately made an estimate of what I supposed could be done during the year; and you null observe by referring to the copy of the said estimate, which is hereto appended, that I worded it “for carrying on the work of the eastern porticoes — say to December 1, 1863;” and The Extensions. 833 I expressed to them, verbally, my opinion that the amount specified would complete the marble work of both these porticoes. The sequel shows that I was right as to the amount being sufficient “for carrying on the work to December 1, 1863,” and for paying for the bronze doors; but I was wrong in the opinion I gave that it would cover the completion of both porticoes. That opinion was expressed in conversation, without calculation, and was the result of impression. I trust that the foregoing explanations will be sufficient to show you why my anticipations in this particular have not been realized. I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Thomas U. Walter, Architect of the U. S. Capitol Extension, &c. Hon. J. P. Usher, Secretary of the Interior. Estimate for carrying on the work of the two eastern porticoes and steps of the Capitol extension, and completing the roofs of the connecting corridors, for nine months, say to December 1, 1863. For stonecutting §90, 000 For 25,000 feet of marble, at §1.98 49, 500 For 31 monolithic shafts, at §1,400 43, 400 For finishing roofs of corridors 3, 500 For pay-roll of bricklayers, laborers, clerks, watchmen, &c., for nine months. 27, 000 For outstanding debts 67, 200 Incidental expenses 21, 340 Balance of appropriation now on hand 301, 940 184, 000 To pay for bronze doors and expenses 117,940 32, 060 February 3, 1863. 150, 000 Thomas U. Walter, Architect United States Capitol Extension, &c. [From the “Act to supply Deficiencies in the Appropriations for the Service of the Fiscal Year end- ing the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty-four, and for other Purposes,” approved Mar. 14, 1804. (Stats, at Large, v. 13, 25.)] For the Capitol extension, one hundred and fifty thousand dollars. [The report of Senator Foot, made to the Senate Mar. 29, 1864 (38 — 1, Senate Rept. No. 39, 8 pages), accompanying bill S. No. 209, for the relief of Charles F. Ander- son, architect, contains a recapitulation of certain facts given in foregoing docu- ments concerning the development and execution of plans and designs for the Capitol Extension. ] [House proceedings of June 29, 1864: Congressional Globe, 38—1, p. 3395.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration the amendments of the Senate to the Sundry Civil bill for 1865 — H. Rep. 646 -53 834 Documentary History of the Capitol. The next amendment of the Senate was read, as follows: Insert: For plans and detailed drawings for proposed changes in the Capitol wings to secure improvements in ventilation and the acoustics of the Halls of Congress, the sum of $1,500, or so much thereof as may be necessary; said outlay to be authorized and approved by the joint select committee of the two Houses on ventilation, &c., of the said Halls, and to be paid out of the aforesaid appropriation for the Capitol extension. Mr. Brooks. I would like to have some explanation of that. Mr. Stevens. We have two or three architects employed, and if they are compe- tent they ought to do it without extra pay. Mr. Brooks. This is the only opportunity for me to say that I believe this is an unfit place to do business in, especially when the furnaces are going. I trust that something will be done to ventilate this place so that we may be able to stay here and do business. I do not expect myself to be here more than three months longer, but for the great mass of individuals who are to come to this place hereafter to do public business, I do hope that something will lie done for the ventilation of this Hall. Thousands and tens of thousands of dollars have been thrown away here. It is impossible to stay in this House any length of time without going out to seek the fresh air. That is one of the causes of disorder. It is impossible to sit here and devote attention to the business that is going on. Members must breathe, they must have fresh air. Here the air is artificial and the light is artificial. Let the architects who have control of this matter prepare some plan for remedying the evil. Mr. Stevens. The gentleman says that this is an unfit place to live in, and I do not think it is a very clever place to die in. [Laughter.] Whether $1,500 is necessary to employ new architects I do not know. Gentlemen can concur or non-concur in the Senate amendment as they please. Mr. Pruyn. I take it for granted that the regular architects employed upon this Capitol are fully occupied with that regular work, and that you will find it neces- sary to employ somebody who shall give special attention to this subject, and some- body, if you please, not connected with the building heretofore. I think it -would be wise to go outside for the purpose of procuring proper plans for this purpose, and therefore I hope the House will agree to vote this $1,500. Mr. Morrill. In consequence of other duties I have been able to attend but one meeting of the select committee upon this subject. I desire to ask my colleague upon the committee, from Connecticut, [Mr. English,] whether any action of that committee has been had relative to this expenditure, and whether that committee deem this expenditure important, and have requested it or not. Mr. English. As a member of that committee I desire to state to the House that Mr. Anderson appeared before this committee with the original plans which he devised for this edifice. The plans have been of some service to the committee in their examinations in regard to the ventilation of this Hall as originally contem- plated by Mr. Anderson. There has been no action taken by the committee in regard to compensation. Mr. Morrill. Another question; is this $1,500 to be appropriated for plans to be made hereafter, or is it to be made as a compensation for those already made and exhibited before the committee? Mr. English. The whole matter is new to me, and no action has been taken by the committee; but the committee have consulted the plans during one evening. Mr. Rice, of Maine. I would ask the gentleman from Connecticut whether the select committee recommend this appropriation. Mr. English. No action has been taken by the committee. Mr. Rice, of Maine. I desire to say that a bill has been reported appropriating $7,500 for Mr. Anderson. That is, I understand, for the plans which he has produced heretofore, and for services for which he has been paid. The Extensions. 835 Now, one word in reference to this appropriation. I believe that to appropriate $1,500 will be to throw away just so much money, because everybody knows that it cannot accomplish anything toward the ventilation of this room. The Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, to which I have the honor to belong, have investi- gated this subject to some extent. They investigated it in connection with the claims of Sir. Anderson, and we gave it considerable time and attention, but no member of the committee will say he is prepared to urge our views upon the House in this con- nection. I simply mean to say that the committee agree in saying that $1,500 would be a mere bagatelle toward accomplishing the great purpose in view. Seventy-five thousand dollars would be the least amount required. Mr. Pruyn. This appropriation is for plans. Mr. Rice, of Maine. This joint committee should make a thorough investigation of this matter. Is is composed of able gentlemen, who are amply ably to investigate this subject, and therefore I hope this appropriation will not be made, but that the joint committee will have time during the interim between the two sessions to thor- oughly look into the matter. If that committee do now recommend this expenditure I have not a word now to say; but in the absence of any such recommendation I am opposed to it. So far as the plans of Mr. Anderson are concerned, I would say that he has already been paid for them by pending legislation, and they are now at the command of that committee. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. Has this appropriation any connection with the claim of Mr. Anderson? Mr. Rice, of Maine. I do not know anything about it. If it has it ought not to have. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. I desire to state that I am in possession of some facts in relation to the claim of Mr. Anderson to six or seven thousand dollars. Mr. Rice, of Maine. I will say nothing for the present about that claim. It will not come up for action during this session of Congress. Mr. W t ashburne, of Illinois. I understand that Mr. Anderson has already been paid everything he claimed, and lias, besides, got his plans. Mr. Morrill. From the information already before the committee it is obvious that this appropriation is not needed. I therefore hope it will be non-concurred in. Mr. Brooks. I would ask the gentleman from Maine what he proposes to do now. Why put off all this matter? Why legislate for posterity instead of for the present? Sir. Rice, of Maine. I think something should be done now, but the matter was taken out of the hands of the appropriate committee and given to this joint com- mittee. When that joint committee will report and recommend any feasible plan, I will certainly give it my hearty concurrence, but until we do get some report from an appropriate committee 1 am opposed to this appropriation. Sir. Brooks. Will the Clerk read the Senate amendment again? The amendment was again read. Mr. Brooks. Sir. Chairman, I do not see that the $1,500 would do the least good; and I quite concur in the remark made that it would be so much money thrown away. But I propose to submit something practical as a substitute for the Senate amendment, to the effect that a sub-committee of four from the joint committee on ventilation be directed to execute some plan for the ventilation of the two Houses of Congress, and that $25,000 be appropriated therefor. This sub-committee can sit during the recess and devise and execute some plan which will give us good ventila- tion hereafter. Acoustics are of minor importance. We can do without hearing, but we cannot do without breathing. Mr. Pruyn. I suggest to my colleague to use the word “authorized” instead of “directed.” Mr. Brooks. I accept that modification. 836 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Morrill. I hope that duty will not be imposed on the committee already raised. It seems quite enough responsibility to impose upon them a recommendation to the two Houses of Congress to adopt some plan. If a plan be adopted $25,000 will not be by any means sufficient. I am opposed to authorizing a committee to act on their own judgment, their own taste, their own information alone in making important changes in these Halls. I trust the subject will be properly and thoroughly investi- gated, and that this recommendation will be subjected to the scrutiny and examina- tion of the two Houses, to be by them adopted if approved of. Mr. Brooks. I would ask the gentleman from Vermont if he ever expects that one hundred and eighty or two hundred members of Congress will ever take the time to investigate any plan of ventilation. I know nothing about the theory of ventilation or of acoustics, but there is one fact palpable to me every day and every hour, and that is that this is not a place fit to breathe in, and that no natural breath can be inhaled by persons here. In the end this is to be done by some engineer or archi- tect; but why not devolve this duty on a sub-committee? Why not give that com- mittee power now? Why not have a properly ventilated Hall next session of Con- gress? Some architect, some engineer, some committee will have to direct and execute some plan finally, for a body of two hundred men has neither the time nor the capacity to act upon and approve any plan. The time is now or never. The same debate would occur next winter, and nothing will be done. The same debate will occur the winter after, and nothing will be done. The whole tendency and management of the public business is to throw it out of the hands of the House and necessarily into the hands of a few committees, for necessa- rily the great body of the members of the House are not physically able to remain within these walls hour after hour. They must go out of doors to seek pure air. There is nothing I have desired so much during the night sessions we have had here as to escape from this Capjitol. It would have been better that the two Houses should have their sittings out under the trees where we could have the pure air of heaven rather than to have been confined within these walls. Our business is to a considerable extent transacted by unanimous consent. Why, sir, this morning ten or fifteen gentlemen pressed through bills involving thousands, tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands, if not millions of dollars, that the great body of the House will know nothing of until they read them in the published acts of Congress. It cannot he otherwise in this Hall as at present arranged, for it is impossible to sit here. I have been as constant in my attendance here and as constant in my attention to what was going on as my capacity would admit during the present Con- gress; but it is impossible for any member to know what goes on. Why, sir, our tenement houses in New York, some of them fifty, sixty, or one hundred feet under ground, some of them ten or twelve stories high, are better supplied with air; their tenants enjoy better ventilation than we who live within these gorgeous rooms, in this magnificent Capitol, amid this gold, surrounded by these pictures, reposing upon these luxurious seats. Sir, I would rather sit upon a broken bench under some leafy tree in the open air in some wild woods than to submit to the miserable con- finement within this Hall. Mr. Morrill. The gentleman’s denunciation of this Hall should perhaps betaken with some grains of allowance. I believe it is conceded by all that it is improperly ventilated, but the question arises whether we shall adopt the plan of the present architect, which involves no great amount of expenditure, or provide for some new plan. I believe the architect assumes that he can give any amount of ventilation required very easily without any change of the present plan. Gentlemen who under- stand anything of the construction of this building know that to go into a reconstruc- tion of this Hall would involve an expenditure of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Under these circumstances, I think it is no more than proper that we should exer- The Extensions. 837 cise a considerable amount of caution, judgment, and discrimination before we author- ize any committee, without the plan being submitted to Congress, to enter upon a work which may involve so grave consequences. I trust this committee will not adopt the amendment of the gentleman from New York, at least until the archi- tect has had the opportunity of ascertaining whether a proper amount of ventilation cannot be secured under the present plan. Upon the adoption of Mr. Brooks’s amendment 70 voted in the affirmative, and 29 in the negative. Mr. Rice, of Maine, called for tellers. Mr. Brooks. Let me suggest that if gentlemen upon the other side of the House do not like my amendment let them change it to suit themselves. I do not care how it is done, I only want some plan adopted to give us pure air. Mr. Morrill. I move to amend the amendment of the gentleman from New York by adding thereto: Provided, That no greater sum shall be appropriated under this appropriation than is necessary to increase the ventilation sufficiently upon the plan now in existence. Mr. Kalbfleisch. I object to that amendment. The gentleman from Vermont and I differ upon many subjects, and I think upon the subject of ventilation. I do not know what these plans may be. [Laughter.] Mr. Morrill. All I desire is that we shall not be involved in an expenditure of half a million dollars without knowing what we are about. Mr. Frank. I presume there is no objection upon the part of any one to a proper investigation being made in regard to ventilation; but if any change is undertaken in the plan of this Hall there is no question but a very large amount of expenditure will be involved. Mr. Brooks. I am willing to limit the expenditure to $25,000. Mr. Frank. That is very well, but the gentleman will find that the expenditure of $25,000 will be but the entering wedge of appropriations of hundreds of thousands. Mr. Brooks. I am willing to add the proviso that there should be no change in this structure of the Halls of Congress. 1 do not care for the heat, but I want to breathe the fresh air of heaven. I am willing to endure this miserable artificial light, but I want to breathe. I do not ask for any change in the structure of the Flail; I only ask that some plan of ventilation may be adopted that will enable us to sit here and attend to the public business. Mr. Stevens. I want to move to amend still further. The Chairman. Further amendment is not in order. Mr. Morrill. I desire to add a proviso that no greater sum shall be expended under this appropriation than shall be necessary to increase the ventilation upon the plans now in use. Mr. Stevens. I understand the gentleman from New York accepts that amend- ment. Mr. Brooks. Certainly. Mr. Morrill. The object of my amendment is to give the architect an opportunity to increase the ventilation upon his own plan, which he says he can do, and without any large expenditure of money. That can be done during the recess of Congress, while to make an entire change will require a year or more. Mr. Brooks. I want added the words “that there shall be no change in the Halls of Congress.” Mr. Morrill. I am willing to agree to that. The amendment, as modified, was agreed to. The Senate amendment, as amended, Avas non-concurred in. 838 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House proceedings of June 29, 1864: Congressional Globe, 38 — 1, p. 3400.] The House having under consideration the Senate amendments to the Sundry Civil bill for 1865 — The Speakek. If there be no objection, the recommendations of the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union will be adopted on all the amendments except those on which a separate vote shall be asked. There was no objection.’ Mr. Brooks and Mr. Mallory demanded separate votes upon their amendments. The Speaker stated the question to be first upon the amendment of Mr. Brooks, which was to strike out the thirtieth amendment of the Senate and insert in lieu thereof the following: That the joint committee on ventilation be authorized to execute some plan for increasing the ventilation of the two Houses of Congress not involving a change in their structure, and that the sum of $25,000 is hereby appropriated, or so much thereof as shall be necessary, to carry into effect any plan that may be agreed upon by the committee aforesaid- or by a sub-committee thereof. Mr. Holman. I rise to a question of order. That amendment makes an appropria- tion, and is not in order to be offered in the House. The Speaker. The Chair overrules the question of order on the ground that it is germane to the Senate amendment. * * « The Speaker stated that the question recurred on the following amendment of the gentleman from New York [Mr. Brooks] to the civil appropriation bill: That the joint committee on ventilation be authorized to execute some plan for increasing the ventilation of the two Houses of Congress, not involving a change in their structure, and that the sum of $25,000 is hereby appropriated, or so much thereof as may be necessary, to carry into effect any plan that may be agreed upon by the committee as aforesaid or by a sub-committee thereof. The House divided; and there were — ayes 43, noes 50. So the amendment was not agreed to. [From the “Act making Appropriations for sundry Civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending the Thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty-five, and for other purposes,” approved July 2, 1864. (Stats, at Large, v. 13, 350, 351.)] For continuing the work on the Capitol extension, three hundred thousand dollars. For plans and detailed drawings for proposed changes in the capitol wings to secure improvement in the ventilation, heating, and acoustics of the Halls of Con- gress, the sum of fifteen hundred dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary; the said outlay to be authorized and approved by the joint select committee of the two houses upon the ventilation, &c., of said Halls, and to be paid out of the afore- said appropriation for the capitol extension. [Annual report of Thomas IT. Walter, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1864. (38 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 689.)] REPORT OF THE ARCHITECT OF THE CAPITOL EXTENSION. Architect’s Office, United States Capitol, Washington, D. C., November 1, 1864. Sir: I have the honor to lay before you the following report on the state of the public works under my charge, and their progress during the past year. capitol extension. Marble work . — The eastern portico of the north wing is entirely finished, and pre- sents a specimen of exterior marble work which has probably never been excelled. The shafts of the columns are all monoliths, the bases and the pedestals are each The Extensions. 839 wrought out of a single block, and the capitals are executed in two courses, with the foliage sculptured out of the solid. The architrave over each inter-columniation is likewise monolithic, and the ceilings are entirely composed of massy blocks of mar- ble, deeply paneled, and richly ornamented. The steps and carriage-ways which form, the entrance to this wing are completed, except the caps of the cheek blocks, (these pieces are very large and difficult to quarry, as well as to transport.) No other part of the construction is, however, depending upon them; they have, there- fore, not been urged forward to the disadvantage of other portions of the work. Several of these blocks have been quarried, and are now on their way to the Capitol. One has been received, and wrought, and is now in place. The eastern portico of the south wing has been very much retarded by the want of certain blocks of marble which were necessary to render available the work already prepared for the building. The most of the material required for this portico has been delivered and wrought; and, had it not been for the delay occasioned by the want of the blocks alluded to, there would have been no difficulty in completing this portion of the work during the present season. It is claimed, however, by the con- tractors that this delay was unavoidable, and that no means within their control could have prevented it. In addition to the difficulty of obtaining men to work in the quarries, it was found to be impossible to procure vessels, even at fabulous prices, to convey the stone from Bridgeport to Washington. It is proper for me, in this connexion, to say that I have not, during the entire season, spared any efforts to urge on the delivery of the required material; and, while I regret the delay that has been occasioned by the failure of the contractors to fill our orders in time, I am of the opinion that they have done everything in their power to comply with our require- ments: their failure to do so is to be attributed to causes over which they could have no control. All the monolithic shafts for the columns of this portico, being twenty- two in number, are delivered and wrought, and sixteen of them are set in the build- ing; the capitals and bases are also completed, leaving nothing unfinished pertaining to the columns but six of the pedestals, and these are now on their way to Washing- ton. Nearly all of the superstructure is wrought, and a considerable portion of it has been set. Should the winter prove favorable for work, and no further delays occur, this portico will be finished by the first of March next. The steps and plat- forms are completed as far as they can be until the apparatus by which the columns are hoisted can be removed. The cheek blocks are finished, with the exception of their cappings. The north, south, and w r est porticoes remain as they were at the date of my last annual report, it having been found to be impracticable to obtain the marble neces- sary for their prosecution, without further retarding the work on the eastern front. Five of the monolithic shafts for these porticoes have been delivered, and one has been wrought, leaving thirty-five yet to be furnished. A large portion of the super- structure has also been delivered and wrought, including the entire balustrade; sev- eral of the capitals of the columns are in progress, and the bases are nearly all delivered. The construction of these porticoes will be rapid, as they consist of single ranges of columns, having no pediments, nor elaborate flights of steps like those on the eastern front; the substructures upon which they rest are already completed, so that nothing remains to be executed except the columns and entablature. The wrought material for these porticoes is in such a state of forwardness as to render the rate of delivery of the monolithic shafts and the pedestals the only limit to their progress. The contractors for furnishing marble have delivered, from the quarries at Lee, Massachusetts, since the date of my last annual report, 23,815 cubic feet, for which they have been paid the sum of $36,560.72; they have also delivered from the quar- ries of Baltimore county, Maryland, nineteen monolithic column shafts for the exterior porticoes, for which they have received the sum of $26,600. 840 Documentary History of the Capitol. The marble which yet remains to be furnished to complete the work, in addition to what is now on the ground, consists of 366 blocks, containing in the aggregate 25,168 cubic feet. Also thirty-five monolithic shafts for the exterior porticoes. The marble received and approved from the quarries at Lee, Massachusetts, for the exterior of the buildings, from the commencement of the work to the present date, amounts to 491,570 cubic feet, for which the contractors have been paid the aggregate sum of 1865,043.41. They have also delivered sixty-five monolithic column shafts from the quarries in Baltimore county, Maryland, for which they have received $91,000. There have also been delivered for the interior of the building, since the com- mencement of the work, 57,523 cubic feet of white and fancy marbles, the aggregate cost of which was $199,735 92, making the total cost of all the marble used in the Capitol extension, from the beginning of the work to the present date, $1,155,779.33. A quantity of refuse and useless materials, including such variegated and fancy mar- bles as were not required for the work, ami which were rapidly deteriorating, were sold at public auction on the 1st of October, by order of the department. The net proceeds of the sale amounted to $12,469.83, which will be deposited in the treasury to the credit of the appropriation for the Capitol extension, as soon as the collections are completed. The amount paid for cutting and setting marble from October 31, 1863, to October 31, 1864, is $95,853.98, making the total amount paid for this branch of labor, from the commencement of the work to the present time, $1,622,765.77. Painting . — The walls and ceilings of the halls, passages, and stairways of the prin- cipal and attic stories of the south wing have been repaired and painted in flat tints, in the same style of finish as that heretofore executed in the corresponding nortions of the north wing. Permanent screens , with fly doors, have been placed in the passage back of the Speaker’s chair, in the south wing, which will reduce the number of doorkeepers, and add to the comfort of the members. These screens are completed, except some portions of the ornamental work, which will remain to be finished after the adjourn- ment of Congress. Sculpture . — The plaster casts, executed from the designs of the late Thomas Craw- ford, for the eastern door of the north wing of the Capitol have arrived, and are now being executed in bronze at the foundry in Chicopee, Massachusetts. The design of this door is grand and imposing; and, as a work of art, it is probably unsurpassed in any country. It bears the marks of Mr. Crawford’s superior genius, in all its details, as well as in its grouping, and the bold handling of every subject it presents. I con- sider it by far the best work of that distinguished artist, and I doubt not that as much justice will be done to it by Mr. Ames, at his foundry at Chicopee, as it would have received at the hands of Mr. A 7 on Miller, at the National AVorks at Munich, where it was designed originally to have it executed. But let the result be what it may, we will have the satisfaction to know, when it is completed, that it is an American work. I am strongly impressed with the idea that our public buildings should not be suffered to degenerate into mere museums of foreign art; I am decidedly of the opinion that they ought to constitute a record of the state of the arts in our own country, at the time they were executed. Entertaining these views, I am gratified that the sculptures of the north wing are American, and I respectfully recommend that those of the south wing, none of which are yet under contract, shall not only be confined to artists of our own country, but that one of the conditions of any commis- sion that may hereafter be given shall be, that all the work, both of design and exe- cution, shall be performed in the United States. Ventilation, Ac.— A series of experiments in relation to the present system of warming, ventilating, ana lighting the new halls of Congress are now in progress, in the prosecution of which we have the invaluable aid of Professor Henry, of the The Extensions. 841 Smithsonian Institution, and Dr. Charles M. Wetherill, a distinguished chemist and physicist. A report upon the subject will be submitted to the department at as early a day as may be found to be practicable. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1865. (39 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 809.)] CAPITOL EXTENSION. The progress of this work since the last report of my predecessor, T. U. Walter, esq., (November 1, 1864,) has been the completion of the eastern portico of the south wing, including the steps and carriage-ways to the same. The cheek -blocks remain, however, unfinished, owing to the difficulty of obtaining blocks of marble sufficiently large for the capping. There are eleven pieces of marble for this prurpose now on the ground, and the number required for one of the cheek-blocks are now set in place. The greater part of the marble-work for the north portico has been prepared during the present season, and is now being set. It is expected that this portion of the work will be done by the meeting of Congress. In addition to the above, there have been seventy-three blocks for cornice, archi- traves, &c., prepared for the unfinished porticoes. There have been received, in addition to those already set, nine monolithic col- umns, which have been wrought for the other porticoes, and there are also on hand, belonging to the government, blocks sufficient to make eight columns in two pieces. As the contractors, under a provision of their contract, claim the right to deliver these stone in two pieces, and as they have been received and paid for, I respectfully recommend that they be used in the western porticoes, alternately with monolithic columns. A marble balustrade is being prepared to go between the plinths of the columns of all the porticoes, except where the steps prevent. This will add to the beauty of the porticoes and to the security of visitors. There will be required for the completion of the porticoes fifteen column shafts and about 20,000 cubic feet of marble. Nearly all the marble-work for the upper balustrades for the southern and western porticos has been prepared for several years, and is liable to damage. It is to be hoped that this work can be set during the next year. * * * No appropriation was asked for this work at the last session of Congress. By reference to Mr. Walter’s report of November 1, 1864, it will be seen that he states that “no appropriation would be required for the Capitol extension during the ensuing fiscal year. ’ ’ [From the annual report of James Harlan, Secretary of the Interior, Dec. 4, 1865. (39 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. xvi.)] The report of the architect of the Capitol extension furnishes full information con- cerning the condition and progress of the work. Since the report of his predecessor, the eastern portico of the south wing, including the steps and carriage ways to the same, has been completed, with the exception of the caps of the cheek blocks, delayed for the want of marble of the requisite dimensions. One of these has been finished, and eleven pieces of marble for the others are now on the grounds. The greater part of the marble work for the north portico has been prepared dur- ing the present season, and this portion of the work is now completed. Seventy- 842 Documentary History of the Capitol. three blocks for cornice, architraves, &c., and nine monolithic columns have been prepared for the unfinished porticos. Some years since the Government acceded to an interpretation of the contract, insisted on by the contractors, which allowed them to furnish marble of such dimensions as to require two pieces in the construction of each column. There is on hand material for eight columns of that description. The architect recommends that they be placed alternately with monolithic columns in the western porticos. Congress, at its last session, made no appropriation for this work, and the architect estimates that $175,000 will be required to continue it during the present fiscal year, and $200,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1867. [From the “Act making additional Appropriations, and to supply the Deficiencies in the Appropria- tions for sundry civil Expenses of the Government for the fiscal Year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty- six, and for other purposes,” approved Apr. V, 1866. (Stats, at Large, v. 14, 19.)] For continuing the work on the Capitol extension, one hundred and seventy-five thousand dollars. [House proceedings of May 4, 1866: Congressional Globe, 39 — 1, p. 2394.] VENTILATION OF THE HALLS OF CONGRESS. Mr. Rice, of Maine, by unanimous consent, submitted the following resolution; which was read, considered, and agreed to: Resolved , That the Secretary of the Interior he directed to communicate to this House the report made to him by Thomas U. Walter, late architect of the Capitol extension, on the warming and ventilation of the two Houses of Congress, with the reportsof Professor Joseph Henry and Dr. Charles M. Wetherill accompanying the same. [Senate proceedings of July 23, 1866: Congressional Globe, 39 — 1, p. 4033.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1867 — Mr. Buckalew. I move this amendment from the select committee on ventilation, to come in on page 14, immediately after the appropriation for the Capitol extension: For improvements in the Senate wing of the Capitol proposed in the report of the joint select com- mittee of the two Houses upon the improvement of the Halls of Congress made at the last session, and approved and recommended at the present session by the select committee of the Senate upon the ventilation and sanitary condition of the Senate wing of the Capitol, the sum of ©117, 685. 25; and the said improvements shall be made and executed under the management and direction of Charles F. Anderson, as architect and superintendent, upon plans or specifications and details to be submitted to and approved by Dr. Thomas Antisell; and all necessary contracts for work and materials shall be made by the Commissioner of Public Buildings with the concurrence of the architect and all accounts and expenditures for said sums shall be examined and certified to the Secretary of the Treasury for payment by said Commissioner. The compensation of said architect and superintendent shall be at the rate heretofore paid to the superintending architect of the Capitol extension, payable quarterly out of the foregoing appropriation, commencing from and after the passage of this act. I suppose it would be best to have the report of the committee on ventilation at the present session read in connection with this amendment. At the last session of Congress an elaborate report was made by a joint committee of the two Houses, recommending precisely the improvements now contemplated. An appropriation, in accordance with their recommendation, was put upon the mis- cellaneous appropriation bill by the Senate last year, but without any debate, in the The Extensions. 843 expiring hours of the session; and the committee of conference on the part of the Senate, in meeting a like committee from the House, abandoned the proposed appro- priation, and they did it upon grounds which were perhaps unexceptionable. That bill was loaded down with enormous amounts of undigested or unexamined matter, and this section was of that character. The committee had not leisure to examine the subject, and it was abandoned, as I said before, along with a number of other sections in dispute. At the present session the select Senate committee took up the investigation and went over the whole field of inquiry again, and we now report to the Senate the amendment which I have proposed. In the report at the present session the com- mittee have not gone ov’er the grounds covered by the former report, but they have called attention to leading and important points, which sufficiently vindicate the measure. Without consuming the time of the Senate in a prolonged debate upon all the points involved, I propose, as this subject is important, and as it will go to the House of Representatives and he the subject of reference hereafter, to have the brief report of the select committee at the present session lead. The Secretary read the following report, made by Mr. Buckalew on the 18th instant: [See 39 — 1, Senate Rept. No. 137, pp. 17.] Mr. Sprague. I hope the Senator will explain to us the changes it is proposed to make in the roof and Hall before we vote. Mr. Buckalew. I will give some explanation of this plan of improvement proposed by the committee. The general features of the plan are these: that the present roof shall be abolished; we commence at the upper extremity; and in its place a double roof or one counter-ceiled be substituted, which will exclude all noise of storms and all influence of heat and cold in summer and winter; the ceiling to be elevated, and side windows to be placed in the upper elevation of the Hall in its whole circumfer- ence, enabling us at all times to command at pleasure a complete supply of pure external air directly into our Chamber; and by making the windows double, as they ought to be in all buildings of magnitude, we obtain control of the Chamber with reference to external heat and cold when we choose to exclude them. It will be observed that so far as I have gone in my statement, the plan obtains direct communication with the external atmosphere from the Hall, and secures the air in it perfectly from the influence of external heat and cold as well as external noise. The next point is a change in the lighting of the Hall. We propose to remove the present gas jets from above the ceiling and replace them by eight or twelve — I forget which — lights adjusted with ventilating chimneys and with reflectors. We can obtain from a limited number of such lights double the present amount of lighting power in the Hall, if we choose, by the simple device of using reflectors, and by using chimneys all the smoke and unused gas are immediately removed and dis- charged into the external atmosphere. That portion of the plan will avoid the throwing down in to the Hall of heat at night sessions and enable us to sit here with perfect comfort in summer, even though we should not cool the air before we intro- duce it into the Hall, which we propose to do. So much, sir, with regard to the changes above. Now, the general plan of improve- ment, as proposed in the former report, but not recited in the present one, was this: the air is obtained at a short distance from the wings, conveyed through an entrance passage of adequate capacity to a point in the basement, where it is subjected to the influence of a fan; that is the moving power, the one now used, and the one in almost universal use in all large structures. Near that fan is placed the heating appa- ratus; that which we have now can be used, and we may extend it somewhat in magnitude; but the same mode of heating can be applied. In summer also, in this passage near the fan, we can cool the air perfectly by a double process; first by plac- 844 Documentary History of the Capitol. ing ice upon a grating which is designed in the plan; and secondly, by causing jets and spray of water to pass through it in its way to the general air chamber, which is above in the neighborhood of the upper part of this Hall. The air then is conveyed upward from the fan through a passage to an air chamber, where, whenever you desire, there may be communication with the external atmosphere to temper it; that is, you can reduce the temperature or increase it at pleasure. It is then brought over the ceiling and admitted to the Chamber by the present apertures through which the air is excluded or carried away. Then, sir, with regard to its removal from the Hall, it will be removed from the Hall through the present apertures in the floor designed for its introduction. It can be taken away from us through the present entrance passage, and the same power which is now used to introduce it can be used to remove it from the Hall. Speaking, then, in general times, we have perfect control over the introduction of the air; we have perfect control over its temperature in winter and in summer; we have perfect control over its removal and its discharge without making any exten- sive change in the present arrangements for its introduction. It will be seen from this statement which I have made that there is one peculiarity, which is not familiar, perhaps, to most members of the Senate— I mean the introduction of air through the ceiling and its removal through the floor. The advantages of that system are so manifest, are so indisputable, that whenever any person examines the subject his conclusion must be in its favor. It is not a matter of debate or dispute. In the first place, one disadvantage of introducing air through the floor of the Chamber, and causing it to pass upward in currents, is that all the dust and impurities that are brought into the Hall, and are upon or about the floor, are carried up into the region of respiration and breathed. Another difficulty is, that these entrance cur- rents affect, to some extent, the sound of the voice in speaking in the Hall. If these currents are active they must produce very considerable disturbance. Another difficulty which we have in our present arrangements is the want of adequate space, which we obtain by the proposed plan. I mean adequate space for preparing the air before it is introduced into the Hall. Our Sergeant-at-Arms has made an attempt to hydrate the air, to impart to it adequate moisture in the winter months, when, I may say without exaggeration, it is in a state highly injurious to the human system, to which cause, I have no doubt, more than one victim has fallen. Now, the air taken at an external temperature in the winter of say 32° degrees, or the freezing point, is conveyed through a closed passage in which there is no access to sources of moisture, and it is heated up to a temperature say of 75°. It is then in a state where it demands, according to natural laws, more than three times the amount of moisture which it contained when first taken from the external atmosphere and subjected to this operation. Thus, sir, we have it in the Chamber, and we are obliged to breathe it without its being hydrated, without its having conveyed to it that adequate amount of moisture required at the temperature to which it is elevated. I had that subject tested by Hr. Wetherill, of the Smithsonian Institution, who was here at that session, and who was doubtless observed by Senators on several occasions conducting his examinations. The average annual humidity of external atmospheric air in this country, I believe, is about 68° — it is a little higher in Great Britain — assuming that the saturation point of atmospheric air is indicated by the number 100; that is, when the air contains all the moisture which it can contain without precipitation, you indicate that state by the number 100, and then in exam- ining any specimen of atmospheric air in a given case you may indicate the amount of moisture present by a number which will bear the same relation to the number 100 that the quantity present bears to what would be present if the air were entirely saturated. This amount, so present, is called by scientific men, “relative humidity,” which is indicated by an absolute number. As I said before, the mean annual rela- The Extensions. 845 tive humidity of external atmospheric air is about 68° in this country. It is about that in Philadelphia. In the air in this Chamber we ought, at a temperature of 75°, to have a relative humidity of 68° or 70°. Upon one occasion Dr. Wetherill ascer- tained that the relative humidity of air in our galleries was 27°. He tested it in the galleries and upon the floor and in the air space above the ceiling upon another occa- sion when the relative humidity of the air stood at 21° in the diplomatic gallery and at 20° at the level of the desks near the floor of the Chamber. The relative humidity of the air we breathed was 20° instead of 70°. This was in cool weather, when the out-door temperature was at about the freezing point. Mr. Roscoe, an English writer who examined this subject, informs us that the air in the House of Lords, where they have night sessions, sometimes very prolonged night sessions, especially in the latter part of the parliamentary sittings, is pleasant to breath when its relative humidity ranges from 55° to 82°; and yet, sir, during the winter months we sit here in an atmosphere the relative humidity of which is some- times 20° or 21°. Of course as the season advances, as warm weather comes on, as the external atmosphere is increased in its temperature, it obtains the moisture which it demands from external sources, and as we do not heat it by artificial means before it is introduced, this objection of aridity of the air does not exist here, and you are not obliged to any considerable extent to struggle against it. It is the dif- ficulty in winter. Now, sir, what the committee propose at this time is, that the architect who designed the Capitol wings originally, and a departure from whose plans has intro- duced every difficulty that exists now in the ventilation of the Halls — I speak that with confidence after three years’ examination of this subject — shall proceed in accordance with the plans which have been examined and approved to make the necessary preliminary arrangements before the next session; to obtain materials and to make the proper contracts preliminary to carrying this work into execution; that during the next session we shall have the air introduced into the Senate hydrated, that is, have some amount of moisture forced into it, and that we shall get through the next session as well as we can with that single improvement. Immediately upon our adjournment at the next session, the work above, the change of roof and ceiling, the introduction of side windows, and all the other details of the plan, will be carried forward and can be executed a considerable time before the meeting of the next Congress. I will conclude by saying that there are two leading defects we encounter at present in examining our ventilation : the one, the aridity of the air in winter; the other is the excessive heat in summer, and this excessive heat in the Hall is pro- duced by the enormous amount of metal and of glass which is placed above us. It is impossible to have this Senate Chamber ventilated and the air made healthy and the condition of the members made comfortable so long as that roof is retained. As I said before, the architect, in designing the Capitol wings, originally planned them with external windows in the whole circumference of the upper part of the Hall, and there was no glass roof. He never intended any such abortion, any such monstrosity in this climate, as a sort of Grecian temple, open to the heavens, or with the external heat and cold and the influence of noise excluded only by metal and glass in the manner which has obtained. Let me explain the effect of that roof in the winter. We had that examined. Upon one occasion when the external temperature was at a temperature of 30^° of Fahrenheit the thermometer indicated 64° in the air space between the ceiling and the roof, which is our lighting space; in the galleries 68°, and on the floor of the Senate Chamber 70°. What did that mean? The 'warm air lying down in the lowest part of the space and the coldest air in the upper part; what did that mean? It meant this; your thirty-four hundred feet of glass roof and your seven thousand or ten thousand square feet of copper roof, (a single thickness at that,) and the iron 846 Documentary History of the Capitol. and glass ceiling were such instruments and agents for imparting cold to the air within our space that the coldest air was actually in the upper part of the Hall and the warmest air in the lowest part. You are obliged to heat air and drive it in here and fight that roof — contend against it — throughout the cold months of the winter; and the disturbance thereby produced to your ventilation is incurable while the cause remains. W e had a Chaplain in the last Congress who understood the classic languages, and I went to him to obtain a Latin expression regarding the roof analogous to that which is used in reference to the destruction of Carthage. He said it would he, tectum delendum est, which may mean, the roof must be destroyed; it must be abol- ished; the impertinence of its presence in this great structure must not be perma- nently permitted. I have taken that as my motto in reference to this question of ventilation which has been under consideration for three years. It is the key-note to the whole subject. You must abolish the present roof, and you must substitute some other arrangement by which you can get control of the air used in ventilating your Hall. By adopting this report the Senate two years from this time, on the 23d day of July, 1868, can sit with perfect certainty in an atmosphere of 70° in this Chamber. I think that is an illustration of the proposed reform which will come home to members. Mr. Johnson. How is it about sound? Mr. Buckalew. One of the leading ideas in the plan of introducing air through the ceiling and taking it out at the floor, one of the main recommendations of it, is its mani- fest improvement with regard to acoustics. By introducing the currents of air at the ceiling and causing the air to descend through a considerable space before it reaches the person the inevitable result is that the air becomes equalized in its temperature and in its density through its whole mass, and the voice traverses it with entire con- venience and regularity. We have had that subject specially examined by Dr. Antisell, a man of science, and he has prepared for us an essay or a report which wall accompany our report (read to-day) when it is regularly printed and prepared for future reference. This subject of the acoustics of the plan was also examined by Professors Bache and Henry when it was contemplated originally to adopt it here. They visited many public buildings and examined that question with care. I may say to the Senator, in addition, that for the purpose of avoiding reverbera- tions which to some extent jrrevail in the present Hall, it is only necessary to have passages for the air sunk in the panels of the woodwork which curtains the Chamber. In that case all surplus sound would be conveyed into the passages, and might by tubes be conveyed to the galleries, as is done in Drury Lane Theater. There are sub-passages connected with tubes by which the voice is conveyed into the upper extremities of the galleries and the voices of the actors upon the stage are heard dis- tinctly at the most remote points of that building. If it become necessary to improve the acoustics of the Chamber with reference to the excess of sounds thrown back from the walls we can easily dispose of all that surplus sound by throwing it into the walls themselves and conveying it away and using it elsewhere if we please. Mr. Sumner. Mr. President, we must all be very grateful to the Senator from Pennsylvania for the attention which he has given to this important question which concerns so much the comfort of the Senate; I was about almost to say the character of our legislation; for while living in this anomalous atmosphere, certainly it may he well imagined that our legislation sometimes must suffer with our bodies. But the Senator will pardon me if I suggest that he has not been sufficiently radical in his proposition. I know the Senator in some respects is unwilling to be considered a radical. He does not like the name. Mr. Buckalew. I have no distate for the name; I claim to be very radical on some subjects. Mr. Sumner. Very well; now I wish the Senator to be radical on this subject The Extensions. 847 which he has particularly in hand. He, catching a phrase from ancient Rome, says, not that Carthage is to be destroyed, but the roof is to be destroyed. Now, I tell the Senator he does not go far enough; these walls are to be destroyed. The difficulty is not so much with the roof over our heads, as with the surrounding walls. This room must be brought to the open air; it must be brought where there can be windows that will look out to the light of day. Through those windows we can hav.e a nat- ural ventilation; and as this building is seated high on an eminence, it is open to the air always when there is any air stirring. I think I do not go too far when I say there is no public edifice in the world which enjoys advantages of sight equal to that of this Capitol. If any one calls to mind the great buildings of London, of Paris, or of Rome, there is not one of them that can be compared in situation with this Capi- tol. Now, sir, when we voluntarily shut ourselves up in this stone cage with glass above, we renounce all the advantages and opportunities of this unparalleled situa- tion. Let these walls be taken down, and by a radical change this room be brought to the open air. That will be a change that will accomplish at once all in the way of ventilation and everything else which the Senator so anxiously recommends. The proposition is more radical than his; it will be expensive, I fear very expensive, for this building as we all see is built for immortality. Unless there is some act of legislation by which it is to be changed this room will continue uncomfortable as it is now for centuries. Senators, centuries after us, unless some of us interfere to make the change, will be sitting as uncomfortably as ourselves. Now,- sir, I think we owe it to those who are to come after us to initiate the change. I would call attention to two things which I think essential. I have alluded already to one of them, and I will now individualize it again. First, this room is to be brought to the open air by taking down these walls and having windows that shall look out to the sky. Secondly, and that is not less important, the room should be not more than half its present size. Here we are in this room sacrificed to the galleries. In that respect we are not unlike the combatants in a Roman amphithe- ater, and here we are engaged in our disputes to make, not “a Roman holiday,” but a Washington holiday. It is on the occasion of a considerable discussion, or what is sometimes called “a great debate,” that these galleries are filled with fourteen or fifteen hundred people. I need not remind Senators how little the size of this room consists with the proper transaction of public business. It may do very well for a considerable occasion when some person is to occupy the whole day and to give himself to an occasional speech; but we all know that it is not consistent with our comfort in the transaction of everyday business. I do not know that Senators remember the testimony that- was given by Sir Robert Peel before the committee of the House of Commons when they were considering what should be the size of that room. He was summoned before the committee and interrogated as a witness is; he was reminded that the House of Commons consisted of six hundred and fifty-eight members; he was then asked what accommodation he thought, all things considered, should be provided for the House and spectators, to which he replied, according to my recollection: true the House of Commons con- sisted of six hundred and fifty-eight members, but that number was very rarely in attendance; then the number of spectators was comparatively small; on common occasions, upon everyday business, even a small house, he said, would not be filled, and he thought it better to construct the new House of Commons with a view to the business of every day rather than with a view to those rare occasions when the House would surely be filled. He said, summing up his testimony, we had better be comfortable every day and stand a tight squeeze on those rare occasions. I think there is a great deal of philosophy in that. I think that the Senate had better be comfortable every day and every hour of the day, when it is transacting its morning business, when it is considering the introduction of measures, and occasionally stand a tight squeeze, rather than be uncomfortable every day, as it is through the unreasonable size of this Chamber. 848 Documentary History of the Capitol. You all know that when business is introduced or motions are made in a common tone of voice, it is difficult for us to hear them unless we give very special attention, and if there is any interruption by conversation it is impossible. Now, I submit that the Chamber ought to be of such a size that a Senator making a motion in a com- mon tone of voice, or asking a question in a common tone of voice, would be easily heard throughout the Chamber. I think that should be the rule of the architect. No such rule has been employed; this has been constructed with reference to these spacious galleries, and our daily business, I may say our daily life, is sacrificed to the accommodation of the galleries. I submit that if the galleries were half the present size, containing some seven hundred witnesses, with the reporter’ s gallery which already exists, the whole theory of our institutions would be amply fulfilled, the public would be in sufficient attendance, and our business would be transacted much more easily and advantageously than it is now. I say, therefore, there are two things to be accomplished; one is to bring this room into a smaller space and another is to bring it out to the open air; and in doing that all the object of my friend from Pennsylvania would be satisfactorily accomplished. We should have a new system of ventilation which would be complete; it would be a natural ventilation in the main instead of an artificial one, such as he proposes. I have thrown out these remarks as they come to my mind, believing that they are important for the consideration of the Senate, and further believing that it belongs to the older Senators of this body, those who have been the longest expe- rienced in this Chamber, to take the lead in these suggestions. Of course Senators who have recently come into the Chamber will not consider themselves authorized by experience to propose a revolutionary or a radical change in the room. It will be for those who have had a longer experience of the Chamber, and especially for those who have had an experience of the other Chamber where we were before this, to insist upon this change. Why, sir, if it could be done by my vote, I would go back to-morrow morning gladly to that other Chamber where the Senate sat for so many honorable years of its existence. There is no one who remembers that Chamber who would not prefer to be there than here. For the transaction of public business it was infinitely superior to this room, and then on those rare occa- sions when there was a large attendance there were spectators enough; the theory of our Government was amply satisfied, the public were not excluded, and there were always reporters to communicate promptly what was said. Mr. Trumbull. I am very much gratified that the Senator from Pennsylvania has moved in this matter. I think something ought to be done. This Hall has been a subject of complaint ever since we moved into it. I served for one or two Con- gresses — I do not recollect now the precise period when we moved into this Hall — in the old Chamber; and from the time we first came here until now it has always been a subject of complaint, not only in summer, but in winter. It used to be complained of when we first came here very seriously in consequence of currents of cold air in the Chamber, and at that time, some years ago — I think the late Senator from New Hampshire [Mr. Hale] moved in the matter first — a committee was raised, and it was proposed, I think, at that time to change the Chamber from its present position to the exterior of the building. I have always been hoping that that change would take place. I think it was the greatest mistake that could have been made to place these Halls in the center of the wings of the Capitol. Now it is in contemplation to improve the grounds. They are already very beautiful on the east and west sides of the Capitol. It is intended to extend the grounds on the north and south, and to plant trees. The prospect will be inviting and pleasing when these improvements are made. If our Hall was upon the exterior of the building, with these fine grounds surrounding them, the windows open, and access out upon the balconies, what a relief it would be. What a relief it would have been during the late hot and oppressive weather to have had an opportunity, without losing the business of the The Extensions. 849 Senate, without being so far away that you could not tell what was going on, to have the benefit of windows upon the exterior. It is not simply the air; it is the prospect. The prospect is worth a great deal. It is a relief from the tedious business of a six or eight or sometimes ten hour session to look out upon the world, and not to be shut up here like prisoners in a jail or school-boys in a school-room, where the win- dows are closed, lest they should look out of doors and their attention be directed from their books. I therefore should be sorry to see any money expended in an attempt to raise the roof of this Chamber with a view of improving it where it is. I think that this room should be adjoining the exterior walls of the building. The architect some years ago made an examination to see if such an improvement could be made, and the matter was seriously considered. I have not looked at his report recently, but he made a report and an estimate of the expense. Two questions were considered: first, whether it was practicable, consistent with the safety of the building, in the manner in which it is constructed, to take out these walls and change the Hall to the exterior walls of the building; and secondly, what the expense of that change would be. The architect reported that, it was practicable, that that change could b( made without injury to the building; and my recollection is that he estimated the expense of doing it, making everything complete, and providing rooms for the Sec- retary’s office and these other anterooms elsewhere, at $200,000. I do not remember what the estimate is of the improvement contemplated by the Senator from Penn- sylvania. If he stated it, I was not paying attention at the moment. The cost of the improvement he designs making would of course be much less than this radical change, as the Senator from Massachusetts calls it, of moving the Ilall to the exterior walls of the building. I am not now prepared to suggest a plan of doing that; but I hope we may have the sense of the Senate upon the question as to how this improve- ment is to be made. I take it, all will agree that some change or other ought to be had in this room. My own judgment is that when we make that change, we had better change the location of the Hall, and not attempt to improve it where it is. It is not in the right place. It never ought to have been in the center of the building. Let us be where we can have the prospect that will surround us and have the benefit of the air as nature furnishes it, without having it pumped up or blown up by artificial machinery. Mr. Buckalew. I deem it necessary to make a few remarks in consequence of what has been said by Senators who have spoken in the debate. In the first place, I agree entirely in the opinion expressed by the Senator from Massachusetts that the Senate and House Halls were made too large; that it would have been much better if they had been constructed of smaller dimensions; but I take it for granted that we shall not get any measure through both Houses of Congress proposing a reduction or con- traction in their size, and inducing the enormous expenditure which will be necessary to effect that object. The Senator from Massachusetts says that he desires to get to the external atmos- phere. Now, sir, by the plan proposed, you accomplish that object ; you get to the external atmosphere. The only difference between the plan which the Senator sug- gested and that proposed is, that by this plan you get to the external atmosphere in the upper part of the Hall by windows surrounding it, and according to his idea you would get to the external atmosphere in the lower part of the Hall by side windows on two sides of the Chamber instead of four. Therefore, the whole object which he suggested as desirable is obtained by the plan before us, while it would be but par- tially attained by his. Of course, the moment that air is introduced from windows in the upper part of the Hall, it would fall to the floor; the whole mass of air within the entire Chamber would be changed; and besides that, you would not be subjected to side currents of air upon the bodies of members themselves. There can be no question between the two, which is to be preferred. H. Rep. 646 54 850 Documentary History of the Capitol. Now, sir, with regard to the suggestion that we shall go to the sides of the wings with our Halls, my opinion is, after a long consideration of this subject, that that proposed reform is one which will never be accomplished; that it is simply a sug- gestion which, if not impracticable, will not within any reasonable period of time be realized. In the report made by the select committee on this subject, which has been read at the desk, a number of objections to it are stated which seem to me to be decisive. But in addition to those objections, there is this one: after you get the Hall to the side of the wing with two of its sides exposed to the external atmosphere through the windows or other apertures, the whole question of ventilation and its arrangement returns upon you. It is idle to talk of ventilating a hall of mag- nitude steadily, regularly, and successfully by side windows alone. Those side windows will be exceedingly objectionable to those who will occupy the Hall because of the currents of cold air which will fall from them if they are not double, and if you double them, as they will necessarily have to be in order to realize the result, the Senator’s external prospect would be excluded or impaired. I do not know that there is a single recommendation of that plan which remains, after con- sidering carefully the practical difficulties in the way, except this one of having a prospect, a thing which you can have now by stepping out upon the balcony under the colonnade. You are able, as far as that is concerned, to realize your wish if you choose to withdraw from business and from debate to enjoy the contemplation of nature, so far as nature can be seen in a city inhabited by fifty or one hundred thousand people with the artificial conditions established by them. I repeat again, that when we get to the sides of the building we shall have to adopt some effective plan of ventilation, to bring the air in above or below and remove it when it becomes contaminated. I have but one further remark to make, which I think will tend to reconcile gentlemen to the adoption of this amendment, which is the only practical point before us. The elevation of the ceiling, the insertion of side windows, and the construction of a new roof, will not be entered upon before the next session of Congress. Of necessity, that part of the improvement will be delayed. When we meet next winter, we shall have a model in wood, open to the inspection of all the members of the Senate, showing precisely the effect of the changes proposed with reference to the roof and the ceiling and the side windows, so that it can be seen by the eye. Then if there be insuperable objections in the minds of Senators to enter- ing upon that part of our plan of improvement, we can arrest it before any expense is incurred upon it. I suppose this explanation ought to be satisfactory to Senators, and induce them to agree to the amendment. [Senate proceedings of July 24, 1866: Congressional Globe, 39 — 1, p. 4072.] CIVIL APPROPRIATION BILL. The Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, resumed the consideration of the bill (II. R. No. 737) making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the year ending June 30, 1867, and for other purposes, the pending question being on the amendment proposed by Mr. Buckalew from the select committee on ventilation. Mr. Sumner. That is a proposition to appropriate $117,000 for the ventilation of this room. If we are to continue in this room I should like to have it ventilated; but I think that so large an outlay of money is out of place for that object. I think, as I said yesterday, we ought to go further and do something better. I am not will- ing, for one, to pay $117,000 merely to stay in this gilded cage where we are kept. I will pay more in order to change the room entirely. I think that the committee The Extensions. 851 has made a mistake. They will pardon me; I do not intend really any criticism; but I think they have made a mistake in trying to refashion this room. That is the object of this large appropriation, §117,000, merely for the ventilation of this impos- sible Chamber; for when it is ventilated it is not a proper Chamber for the Senate of the United States. I hope, therefore, that instead of appropriating §117,000 to ven- tilate this room, we shall appropriate perhaps a larger sum to make a more thorough change. In this matter I am in earnest. I feel that we shall make a mistake if we invest more money in this apartment. The object of the proposition of the Senator is a further investment of money in these walls by which we are encaged. I will invest to take the walls down, but I am unwilling to pay more to keep these walls in their place. I am not able to present a plan as a substitute for that of the Senator from Penn- sylvania. I have never presented this subject to any architect or person who was able to make a report as an architect upon it; but 1 should like to have the whole question submitted to a proper person or a proper committee with a view to a prac- tical result. As I tried to say last night, there were two objects at which 1 would aim. One would be to bring the Chamber right out in connection with the open air, and the other would be to diminish the size of the Chamber. I would reduce it by one half. For instance, a Chamber that would be left by running a line from the main door to the chair of the President, I think would be ample for all the business of the Senate. We should be more comfortable in it. Public business would be transacted more advantageously. For instance, what we are now engaged upon to-day would be attended to much better than in this large room. Since the discussion last night, I have been reminded of a saying by one of the best of the early English writers, old Fuller, which you will find in his proverbs. Mr. Fessenden. Can you give the chapter and verse. [Laughter.] Mr. Sumner. I cannot give the chapter and verse. I have got it here. I have written it down. It is as follows, and I think you will see the application of it, and my friend from Maine will not be insensible of it. A house, he says in this proverb, had better be too little for a day than too big for a year; therefore, houses ought to be proportioned to ordinary occasions and not extraordinary. Now, this Chamber of ours is not proportioned to ordinary occasions; it is not proportioned to our every- day business; and what I desire is that it should be brought into those proportions, that it should be brought into harmony with what we are called upon to do every day; and that it should not be kept in proportion to those extraordinary occasions when these galleries are filled. Now, sir, I have no motion to make, but I do not see how I can vote for this large appropriation which is to involve an increased expenditure on this room, which, it seems to me, we ought to do all we can to get rid of, instead of putting more money into it. Mr. Harris. Mr. President, I am not prepared to agree to any proposition to change this Chamber, so far as it relates to its size or its location, but I am decidedly in favor of improving its ventilation. But I desire to inquire of the Senator from Pennsyl- ' vania who presents this proposition, how much of this §117,000 he proposes to have expended during the recess of Congress. I suppose a very small proportion; and I should think it much more advisable to make an appropriation equal to the amount to be expended during the time that will elapse between this and our reassembly in December, and then consider what we shall do after Congress shall adjourn next year. It seems to me we ought to make a moderate appropriation now to carry on the changes that he proposes to make during the coming recess. Mr. Buckalew. Mr. President, the estimates for the different items of outlay were very carefully ascertained and reported at the last session in the report of the joint select committee, and they appear on pages 24 and 25 of that report. As a matter of course, the amount proposed for appropriation will not be expended before the 852 Documentary History of the Capitol. meeting of the next session of Congress; but it is necessary to know what the Senate intend to do. This plan of improvement is an entirety; one part is dependent upon another; and a complete result can only be secured by the adoption of the entire scheme, at least in its main parts. The committee have reported to the Senate a plan in conformity to their investigations, and what is desired is, not that we shall get the opportunity of spending money between this and the next session of Con- gress, but that we shall have the plan adopted and permit all the preliminary arrangements to be made and the work to be carried forward to such a point that we can secure its completion during the vacation after the adjournment at the next session. As I said before, the Senate would still have it within their power at the next session to arrest those changes which I stated in connection with the roof and ceiling; but I do not believe that the Senate ever would arrest them if the work were once ordered. I stated, also, that at the opening of the next session there would be a complete model of the Senate wing ready, showing the changes proposed above the Hall, by which members would be enabled to judge of the question, if indeed there should then be any question, with regard to proceeding in completing the improvements designed. To be sure, you can make appropriations for this, that, and the other items covered by the estimates in the report to which I have alluded; but that would be a very vain and frivolous mode of proceeding, leading to no results, bringing us to no con- clusion, and securing no valuable and real improvement. The subject is to be passed upon as a general proposition, and not in detail. I do not know that the Senator desired the particular estimates to be stated. I have them here for each item covered by this appropriation, amounting in the aggre- gate to a sum a little exceeding $113,000. We voted last year, without serious ques- tion, $160,000 for extending the Congressional Library. A debate took place on the subject. We thought that object was sufficient to warrant the appropriation of so much money. To be sure, it has not been all expended; it is not all expended even at this time. Now, sir, if it was worth while for us to expend $160,000 in extending the Congressional Library, I ask whether it is not worth while to expend the amount proposed in the pending amendment for the purpose of preserving the health and securing the comfort of one of the branches of the great legislative department of this Government in future time. Mr. Fessenden. I Avish to ask the Senator whether he has any assurance that the work will be done between now and December next. Mr. Buckalew. That is the very point to which the Senator from New York spoke a moment since in putting his question. Mr. Fessenden. I did not observe it. Mr. Buckalew. Only a certain portion of the work can be accomplished before the next meeting of Congress. I stated yesterday that the committee proposed for the next session simply to hydrate the air that is to be let into this Chamber? Mr. Harris. Will the Senator allow me to inquire whether or not that is not a separate work from the work that is contemplated in the upper part of the Chamber? Mr. Buckalew. Yes, sir. Mr. Harris. Entirely distinct? Mr. Buckalew. But that is not involved in this plan. Mr. Harris. That is all that is proposed to be done this year. Mr. Buckalew. It is no part of the plan of the committee. It is a mere temporary device for the next session. Unquestionably this roof cannot be elevated and side windows inserted all around the upper part of the Hall before the next session of of Congress; it is impossible; but the committee have reported an entire plan, and they ask the Senate to adopt it as an entire plan securing results. You cannot take a part of it; you cannot take one fragment of it; you cannot adopt the improvement in one detail and get results. It would be just as absurd to have voted last winter for The Extensions. 853 some part of the additional wing to the Library of Congress, because it was not pro- posed to expend the money before Congress would be in session again. The Senator will see that there is no force in his observations, unless you could separate and divide one part of this plan of improvement from another. Mr. Sherman. I should like to ask whether the plan proposed in the two wings will not involve some radical changes in the center building? Must there not be a propor- tional elevation given to the center? Mr. Buckalew. The subject of the effect of the elevation upon the appearance of the building from the exterior is one upon which I do not propose to enter. It is insisted upon, and I believe correctly, that the present elevation of the Capitol is defective; that it departs from the order of architecture upon which the Capitol was originally designed; that being the Roman Corinthian order, as it is technically known, and which involves the breaking of sky lines by irregular elevations; whereas the sky line of our building is now horizontal; it is level from one end to the other. The eye does not rest upon the Senate or House wing in viewing the Capitol; nothing is dwelt upon but the dome. It departs altogether in that particular respect from the principle of the original design. Mr. Sherman. What I desire to know is, whether this will render it necessary to change the elevation of the center of the building. Mr. Buckalew. It was contemplated by the architect who had charge of the Cap- itol extension that there was to be an extensive addition built in connection with the dome, and when he resigned his office, about a year since, he left behind him in his regular annual report a plan for a change in the center part of the building. It would involve some future addition to the structure at the dome; but we are not concerned with that at present. The amount of elevation upon the Senate wing would not be considerable, and it would not interfere at all with the exterior adornment of the building, the porticos, the colonnades, and the balustrading above on the outer walls of the Senate wing. Our addition would be seen behind the exterior lines at a con- siderable distance. I do not now go into the question of an exterior attic or barrier, which may be added for architectural reasons and general effect, but is not con- templated by this appropriation. Mr. Willey. I think I understood the honorable Senator to state that while it was not in contemplation to do anything more than hydrate the air in the Chamber between this session and the next session of Congress, yet, in order to be able to complete the arrangements in the roof of the Chamber between the end of the next session and the succeeding session, it would be necessary now, at this time, to engage in the commencement of materials and arrangements so as to enable the architect and builder to complete the changes in the roof between the next and succeeding session, and that therefore it was necessary to make the entire appropriation now, in order to secure the materials, &c., with a view to the ultimate completion. I believe I understood the Senator correctly in that respect. Mr. Buckalew. Yes, sir. Mr. Anthony. After the very elaborate and interesting speech which the Senator from Pennsylvania made yesterday upon this subject I do not feel as though I can add anything to it. I served on the committee under him, and I commenced the investigation with a very strong feeling in favor of pushing the Senate Chamber out against the exterior wall, which I have been told was the original plan of the build- ing; but I was entirely satisfied, from examining the subject and hearing the discus- sion by scientific men, architects and chemists, that this Hall never would be properly ventilated by mere lateral ventilation; that the temperature would be dif- ferent in different parts of the room, and in order to make it comfortable in some parts, it wouid be necessary to make it very uncomfortable in others, and even if the Senate Chamber was placed against the wall of the building with the windows open- ing directly into the air it would be necessary to have an artificial ventilation, and 854 Documentary History of the Capitol. the only ventilation that has been successful in a large room is ventilation from above and forced down by machinery. I believe we shall never have a comfortable, or a healthful, or a tolerable Chamber here until we adopt some system like the one now proposed. This is altogether the best that I have been able to come at. I do not believe Ave can do any better than to adopt this system. I do not believe we can have on any other plan that has been brought to the knowledge of the committee anything like such conditions as we desire. Mr. Buckalew. I will say a few words more, and then I will leave the subject. This plan which we will have will be substantially that which obtains in the House of Commons at London. After expending over $2,000,000 in experiments in improv- ing the ventilation of the Houses of Parliament, in 1854, the whole subject was turned over to Goldsworthy Gurney, who proceeded to adopt a plan involving two prin- ciples: first, the use of windows around the whole upper elevation of the hall; and, secondly, the downward movement of the air through the hall, for the purpose of ventilation. In 1852 there was a parliamentary committee which made an elaborate report. In 1854 another committee sat during one half, perhaps the entire session of Parliament. Their report constitutes a large volume in the Congressional Library. Lord Palmerston was a member of the committee, and must have expended two or three weeks of his valuable time in service upon it, prominent as he was in the Gov- ernment of that, country and in the councils of Parliament. They ventilated the House of Commons by the use of windows, precisely as we propose, in the upper elevation of their hall, when the temperature of the external atmosphere admits of it, and they warm their air at all times, when they do not use the external air directly, and bring it into the hall above and remove it at the floor. Although they had expended the enormous amount which I have mentioned in experiments before, on all sorts of plans, such as I have heard discussed for two or three sessions about the Capitol, they adopted this plan of 1854, and from that day down to this the par- liamentary papers are a blank on the subject of ventilation; so perfect and so entirely successful was this system of windows in the upper elevation of the hall, and down- ward movement of the air. Besides that, the legislative chambers at Paris and the public buildings in that city are ventilated on precisely these principles. A recent elaborate work of General Morin was sent for to Paris during the last year, and has been thoroughly examined. It is alluded to in our report. We have, in short, the highest scientific opinion in favor of the leading principles of our plan of improvement, and Are have also the cases of the House of Commons and other public structures in Great Britain and the public buildings in Paris. It is idle for us to seek for information in this country, to call men who have a smattering of information on topics of this kind before us and reduce their evidence to writing. If Ave had twenty volumes of such testimony Ave could not haA 7 e the guarantees for success for this plan which we have from the facts Avhich I haA'e stated. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment proposed by the Sen- ator from Pennsylvania. The amendment Avas agreed to. [From the “Act making Appropriations for sundry Civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and sixty-seven, and for other Purposes,” approved July 28, 1866. (Stats, at Large, v. 14, 314, 317.)] For the Capitol extension, two hundred thousand dollars. For an additional appropriation, to be expended under the direction of the joint committee on the library, to decorate the capitol with such AAmrks of art as may be ordered and approved by said committee, as provided by act appro A^ed August eighteen, eighteen hundred and fifty-six, five thousand dollars. H. Rep. 646— 5S-2. THE ORIGINAL WALTER PLAN. The Extensions. 855 [From the annual report of O. H. Browning, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 19, 1866. (39 — 2, House Ex. Doe. No. 1, p. 13.)] The northern and western porticos of the north wing of the Capitol are completed, and the columns of the southern portico are soon to be set. It is believed that the ensuing year will witness the completion of all the porticos. Efforts have been made, which it is hoped will prove successful, to improve the imperfect and objectionable ventilation of the Senate Chamber and Hall of the House of Representatives. In order to obtain a supply of air that shall at the same time be pure and in the sum- mer cool, it is proposed to construct from each Hall an underground duct, opening in the center of a fountain in the eastern grounds. The jets and overflow would at once assist in cooling the air and serve to relieve it of all mechanical impurities. The pipes to the Government spring now supply the Capitol with abundance of pure water. The balance on hand of the appropriation for the Capitol extension, October 31, 1866, was §80,410 83. The architect estimates that §250,000 will be required to con- tinue the work during the next fiscal year. [House proceedings of Feb. 23, 1867: Congressional Globe, 39 — 2, p. 1519.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1868 — The Clerk read as follows: For continuing the work on the Capitol extension, $250,000. Mr. Scofield. I move to strike that out, for the purpose of inquiring of the chairman of the committee ivhy something is not done with this money which we appropriate from year to year. It ought to say for protracting this work. As we come here session after session, except with the aid of a glass we cannot tell there has been any change in this building, and still we make an appropriation of a quarter of a million for “continuing” it. I ask why this is not completed? Mr. Stevens. The reason is that it is a larger work than those of us who are accus- tomed to small things can realize, and therefore it is found that it takes a longer time to build a Capitol, which is superior to any in the world, than it does to build a saw-mill. I have known a saw-mill to be built in a year; this Capitol you could not build in less than twenty years. Every year when I come here 1 see some progress made. There may be workmen employed who are lazy, though I do not know it. I always see them busy as I pass. I know there are more wanting work than can get it, and very possibly there may have been some unjust discriminations made. I believe there have been some mistakes made by the architect. For instance, this end of the Capitol in which we are is supplied with air which is first, made putrid below. All outside air is excluded, and, if it would not cost so much, it would be well to alter the construction of this Hall so that we could breathe some purer air. But, then, if it is better ventilated, perhaps our prospective successors may complain because of our longer lives. [Laughter.] If any of the money that has been expended upon the building has been thrown away, that is a matter for the consideration of the Committee on Accounts. They ought to look out for that. I am not aware that any of the money last appropriated has been thrown away more than usual. The gentleman asks how much more money it is going to take. If he will ask my successor some years hence perhaps he will find out. [Laughter.] Mr. Scofield. The answer of the chairman of the committee is more witty than satisfactory. What he says about persons being accustomed to small outlays I sup- pose is designed as wit. Mr. Stevens. That is my case. 856 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Scofield. I do not care anything about, it, but I do care something about these wasteful expenditures from year to year, when everybody can see that the policy is to protract this work and do j ust as little as possible with the large appropriations, so as to make it, as the gentleman says, a twenty-year job. Now, I have no idea that this Capitol is to remain at Washington. The action of the last session of Con- gress upon the mileage question looks to the removal of it westward. Whenever the people of the extreme West cannot make a fortune on mileage in coming here they will demand that the Capitol shall go that way, as it ought to go. It is not likely to remain on the Potomac, with one little, crooked, irregular line of railroad for the vast North and Northwest leading to it. Such is the policy of the legislation around us that they are not likely to allow any other mode of reaching here. The single monopoly line between here and Baltimore is to be the only railroad by which any- body is ever to reach this place. Now, these two things operating together will result in the removal of this Capitol. In that view I want the workmen to get what little marble work they have here cut, so as to make the freight as little as possible when we come to move the Capitol to the West. I withdraw the amendment. [House proceedings of Mar. 1, 1867: Congressional Globe, 39 — 2, p. 1686.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration the General Deficiency bill for 1867 — Mr. Scofield. I move to strike out lines forty-eight and forty-nine, as follows: For models for bronze doors, $8,940. Mr. Kasson. I wish to incpiire of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds whether I have been correctly informed that this appropriation is for doors to be put in the Senate end of the Capitol, and to correspond with the bronze doors at this end? I am informed that the estimate is for that purpose, to go on with work already planned. Mr. Scofield. I do not care where they are to be put, I will not vote one dollar for any such doors at either end of the Capitol or anywhere else. They serve no purpose but to block up the way; they are not only useless, but they are a great nuisance. If some one will take ours and put them in a museum where those who wish can go and see them, then I may consider the propriety of voting for these new specimens of the same kind, but the idea of blocking up the passages to these Halls with such things is mere nonsense. , Mr. Conkling. Can any gentleman tell us whether this appropriation is for doors yet to be constructed, or whether it is to pay for doors already made? Mr. Pice, of Maine. I understand that these estimates are for the construction of bronze doors to correspond with those at this end of the Capitol, and to be placed in the Senate end. I know nothing about the matter particularly myself, but I suggest that instead of appropriating this money for these new doors we let the Senate remove our bronze doors to the other end of the Capitol. [Laughter.] Mr. Maynard. Have these models been prepared and submitted, and is this an appropriation to pay for them, or is it an appropriation inviting the making and pre- sentation of such models hereafter? Mr. Farnsworth. It seems to be for work to be done in the future; because here immediately following this there is an appropriation ‘ ! for material for, and casting and fitting the same.” I am very glad that a motion has been made to strike out this item. I agree entirely with the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Scofield] that these doors are a nuisance, and why any person should propose to erect any more of them in the Capitol I cannot understand. They only block up the way, and excite a momentary curiosity in the minds of strangers. If this money is to be appropriated we had far The Extensions. 857 better spend it for pictures which will really ornament the Capitol and at the same time commemorate some of the great events of the war than for the erection of these fancy doors. These two appropriations amount to about thirty thousand dollars, to be expended for these bronze things merely to stand there and attract the gaze of the passers-by. The proposition is absurd, and I hope the appropriations will be struck out. Mr. Kasson. I did not hear what the chairman of the Committee on Public Build- ings and Grounds said; but unless some further light is given upon this subject, I know of no objection on the part of the committee to striking out the appropriation, and letting the Senate take care of their own brass. [Laughter.] Mr. Hill. I desire to know whether there has ever been any law passed authoriz- ing the making of these models. It is here proposed to appropriate something over thirty thousand dollars for these bronze doors. 1 fully concur with all that has been said about the utter uselessness of these doors, and if we desire to encourage art by paying for manufactures of this kind, we certainly had better select some place for them where they will not be an obstruction, as those are which we now have, and which stand there uselessly with their prongs sticking out to catch the clothes of those who have to pass them. Mr. Rice, of Maine. As reference has been made to me as the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, I would say to the gentleman from Iowa, [Mr. Kasson,] that so far as the committee are concerned this matter has not been before it at all. Neither do I know of any existing contract for the expenditure of this money for the construction of these doors, and I believe there is none such. The question, I say, has not been submitted to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds; and if the Committee on Appropriations do not know anything about this matter, and if they have no sufficient data upon which we may act upon it, cer- tainly the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds have not any such data. I desire to say to my colleague on the right, too, that in addition to the other expenditures connected with these doors we have to pay §1,200 a year to a watchman to keep people from stealing the stealable portions of them. For these reasons I think it very bad policy to pay out the public money for the erection of any more of them. The amendment was agreed to. The Clerk read as follows: For material for, and casting.and fitting the same, [bronze doors,] $20,860. Mr. Stevens. As- the other item has been stricken out this ought also to be stricken out. I therefore move to strike out the clause just read. The motion was agreed to. The Clerk read as follows: For eight additional monolithic columns, $11,200. Mr. Conkling. I would like to hear some explanation of monolithic columns. Mr. Stevens. I merely desire to say that this item is necessary, in order that all these columns may be monolithic, or each of a single piece. It has been deemed by the architect of the Capitol extension to be best that all these columns should be in one piece each. That is all the explanation I have to make. Mr. Conkling. I have not been able to hear the explanation of the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Stevens] and I think no one else about me has been able to hear it. I want to understand what these magnificent columns are to be for. Monolithic columns, I understand, are columns made of a single stone each. Mr. Maynard. The gentleman from New York [Mr. Conkling] will recollect the contest we had some years ago, in relation to the Capitol extension, over monolithic columns, or columns of a single piece each, and columns of two or more pieces each. 858 Documentary History o f the Capitol. We finally decided to adopt the monolithic system. The number for which this item of appropriation is to provide is a deficiency caused by breakage or some other cause; there are eight more needed to complete the full number. Mr. Davis. I rise to a question of order. Is there any proposition before the House to amend? If not, then I make the point of order that this debate is not in order. The Chairman. As general debate upon this bill has not yet been closed, it is in order to debate the bill. Mr. Davis. Is there any proposition before the committee? The Chairman. The bill is before the committee. No amendment being offered, The Clerk read as follows: For ventilating, 89,000. Mr. Davis. I desire to make an inquiry in regard to this item. At the last session of Congress a resolution was adopted directing the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, or some other committee, to examine and report in reference to some system of ventilating this Capitol which would be successful. I desire to inquire whether anything has been done by that committee, and if so, whether this amount of $9,000 for ventilating is at all connected with that report. Mr. Stevens. There was a joint committee appointed on the subject ; but I believe the committee lias never met, and nothing has been done under the resolution to which the gentleman refers. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 2, 1S67: Congressional Globe, 39 — 2, p. 1986.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the Deficiency hill for 1866 — Mr. Trumbull. I offer the following amendment to come in on page 4: For supplying deficiency in the appropriation for the work on the Capitol extension, 850,000. I will state that I hold in my hand a letter from the architect of the Capitol extension Mr. Fessenden. Are there not two items in the bill now? Mr. Trumbull. I have hunted for them in the bill and so has the Clerk, but we have not been able to find them. Mr. Fessenden. There is an appropriation for monolithic columns in the first part of the bill in these words: Capitol extension: For eight additional monolithic columns, 811,200. For ventilating, 89,000. Mr. Trumbull. It is right, then, that amount should be taken out of this $50,000. The two items make $20,200. That will leave this appropriation at $29,800. Mr. Henderson. What is it for? Mr. Trumbull. I will state in a moment. It seems this was proposed in the House of Representatives, but not being understood, as the architect thinks, was not agreed to there. Mr. Clark says in his letter to the Secretary of the Interior: I regret to state that the moneys on hand for the prosecution of this work will not be sufficient for the present fiscal year. This deficiency is owing partly to the fact that when the estimate was made on which the appropriation was based I had just become connected with the work, and that I was not aware of the amount of expenditure required for work being done abroad. Consequently I limited the estimate to the work of finishing the marble and the other work connected therewith. Two items of expenditure were also incurred which were not included in the esti- mate, namely, the procuring of eight additional monolithic columns in place of those in two blocks on hand and paid for, and the work done for ventilation at the two The Extensions. 859 Halls, both items being ordered by the Secretary of the Interior, at the request of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds of one or other of the Houses. These items, it seems, are already provided for in the bill. The cost of this additional work and the items overlooked is as follows: Paid for models for bronze doors $8, 940 00 Paid for materials, casting, and fitting bronze doors 20, 860 00 Paid for eight additional monolithic columns 11, 200 00 Paid for ventilating, estimated at 9,000 00 Total 50, 000 00 I therefore respectfully request that an appropriation of $50,000 may be asked for to make up this deficiency. And he makes some further explanation. It seems this work was ordered, and Mr. Clark, the architect, knew nothing about it. It is for a model of the bronze doors, the exterior doors of the Senate and House wings, which were ordered some years ago, and have been paid for out of the money which Mr. Clark had asked for the extension of the building, he knowing nothing of it at the time. The letters perhaps may have explained it, but he has called my attention to the subject that the amendment may be moved here. I presume there will be no objection to it when properly understood. The amendment, as modified, was agreed to. [From the “Act making Appropriations to supply Deficiencies in the Appropriations for the Service of the Government for the fiscal Year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and sixty-seven, and for other Purposes,” approved Mar. 2, 1867. (Stats, at Large, v. 14, 468.)] Capitol Extension . — For eight additional monolithic columns, eleven thousand two hundred dollars. For ventilating, nine thousand dollars. For supplying deficiency in the appropriation for work on the Capitol extension, twenty-nine thousand eight hundred dollars. [From the “Act making Appropriations for sundry Civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and sixty-eight, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 2, 1867. (Stats, at Large, V. 14, 461.)] For continuing the work on the Capitol extension, two hundred and fifty thousand dollars. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1867. (40 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 524.)] CAPITOL EXTENSION. The marble work of the southern and western porticos of the south wing has been set in place, thus completing all the porticos. The cheek blockings of the eastern front of the north wing have also been set. It is expected that all the marble work of the wings will be put in place this season. Much is to be done in cleaning, point- ing, and trimming the marble work. y? # I had the honor to propose, in my last report, a plan for cooling, in summer, the air of the halls, by means of taking the air from the basins of fountains in the eastern grounds, and thence along subterranean ducts to the halls. If this improvement is to be made, it should be done next season, before the terraces are finished. The Crawford bronze doors, for the principal entrance to the north wing which have been cast and are now being finished at the factory of James T. Ames, esq., Chicopee, Massachusetts, are nearly done, and will, in all probability, be put in place next season. A large water main is now being laid for the better supply of water to the Capitol. 860 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House proceedings of Feb. 27, 1868: Congressional Globe, 40 — 2, p. 1480.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1869 — The Clerk read as follows: For continuing the work of the Capitol extension, $100,000. Mr. Selye. I move to strike out that clause. I understand this Capitol covers already between three and four acres of land, and for heaven’s sake I would like to know where it is to be extended to, [laughter,] and which end it is proposed to begin at. [Laughter.] Each end is finished and paid for by the tax-ridden people. But, if the gentleman from Illinois will tell me where he is going to begin, perhaps I will vote with him. Talk about your furniture at the Treasury; for God’s sake look over your heads if you want to see extravagance. [Laughter. ] I tell you, go on with your extravagance, and it will lead to repudiation. The people have got something to say about this matter, whether they will pay these taxes. They will pay them provided economy, prudence, and justice are subserved, but not otherwise. Mr. Van Wyck. I hope the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Washburne] w r ill explain this matter. The inquiry of my colleague [Mr. Selye] is a very pertinent one; why it is proposed to expend §100,000 more upon this Capitol. I hope the gentleman will inform the committee where it is proposed to expend that money. If it is merely to keep a lot of men gathered and clustered about this Capitol merely to draw pay and eat up the §100,000, then I presume the committee will not feel it to be their duty to vote this amount. If the money is really necessary for any purpose we ought to know it. Mr. Washbukne, of Illinois. I do not care about enlightening the gentleman at all if the enlightenment I give him will induce him to vote for the bill as it stands. I was opposed to this appropriation, and I hope it will be stricken out. Mr. Van Wyck. I hope so too, since no one can give us any information about the matter. We are called upon to appropriate $100,000, we know not for what. The evidence of our senses is that it is not necessary. My colleague [Mr. Selye] says that he has taken time to go round this building, long and tedious as the journey may be, and he cannot find where $100,000 more can be expended. I hope the appropria- tion will be voted down, as no one can tell where the money is to go. The question was taken on Mr. Selye’s amendment, and it was agreed to. [House proceedings of Mar. 20, 1868: Congressional Globe, 40 — 2, p. 2026.] CIVIL APPROPRIATION BILL. The morning hour having expired, the House resumed the consideration of House bill No. 818, making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the year ending June 30, 1869, and for other purposes, and the amendments thereto reported from the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union. * * * The next amendment was to strike out the following clause: For continuing the work of the Capitol extension, $100,000. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. That was struck out, I believe, on the motion of the gentleman from Iowa, of the Davenport district, [Mr. Price,] as an offset for the Iowa grab. Now, I ask the attention of the House to a letter from the architect of the Capitol extension, which covers not only this particular item, but the other item for repairs of the Capitol. I ask the Clerk to read the letter. The Clerk read as follows: Architect’s Office, Capitol Extension, Washington , D. C. , February 28, 1868. Sir: In reply to your verbal inquiries in relation to the necessity for the items for the Capitol extension and new dome, in the pending appropriation bill, I have the honor to make the following statement: The Extensions. 861 The appropriation of $125,000 asked for by this office for the Capitol extension is for the completion of the wings, and not for any additions or extensions. The entire marble work is in an unfinished condition, requiring trimming down and pointing the joints, in order to prevent injury to the walls by the absorption of water and freezing of the same in the joints. The balustrade of the southwest portico is yet to be supplied. In order to further preserve the building the large iron gutters on the roof, which are continually leaking, must be replaced or covered by copper gutters. The roof itself, from its peculiar construction, requires constant watching and repairs. At every snow a force of men are required to clear the roof in order to keep the legisla- tive Halls habitable. In fact so great is this annoyance that a new roof of a different construction, before many years, will have to be supplied. It is the intention to paint the unfinished committee rooms, and the exterior wood work should also be repainted. The granite steps of the north, south, and western porticos, which have settled off from the building on account of their foundations running but a short distance in the ground, and then resting on made soil, should be reset. There are many other repairs and contingencies which would be paid for out of this appropriation. As to the item of $5,000 for the new Dome, I have to say that the entire work is not yet completed, and that from the expansion of the iron, of which material the Dome is constructed, the services of painters are constantly required to fill up and paint the open joints and other portions of the work in order to prevent corrosion and consequent decay. The item of $15,000 for the annual repairs of old portion of the Capitol, is for the necessary reglazing, painting, plumbing, and keeping the copper roof in repair, and for putting on iron skylights over the cupolas, the present skylights being of wood, and are so decayed that it is impossible to keep them weathertight; in fact, one is in such a condition there is danger of its falling in. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Edward Clark, Architect. Hon. E. B. Washburne, Acting Chairman Committee on Appropriations, House of Representatives. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. If the members of the House have listened to the reading of this letter they can determine what they should do in regard to this appropriation. I will say, however, that the matter is more elaborated in the report of the architect of the Capitol extension, to which members can refer. I can state, what is known to every gentleman here who knows Mr. Clark, that he is one of the most honest, reliable, and trustworthy men whom we have ever had in the public service. His statements are to be fully relied upon. The House has the facts before it, and it can vote upon the pending amendment. The question was upon striking out the clause. Mr. Selye. Will the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Washburne] yield to me for five minutes? Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. Certainly. Mr. Selye. Mr. Speaker, this architect, the gentleman says, is an honest man. He may be; but it is wdth him as all other architects, the moment you stop the appro- priations “Othello’s occupation’s gone;” and then they have to go to work and earn the money on which to pay their taxes as my constituents do. Now, this architect in his report asks for $15,000 for repairs, when it appears he has already on hand $51,000. He complains that the gutters and sundry other things about this building are out of order. Sir, if I were the architect of this building or any other building, new as this is, and if any part of it should get out of repair so soon, I would fix it up in the night at my own expense, to save my own credit. Mr. Speaker, we have been twenty-eight years erecting the buildings on this five- acre lot — eight years longer than it took Solomon to build the temple and his own 862 Documentary History of the Capitol. house besides. [Laughter. ] It seems to me that these buildings should be well constructed and need little or no repairs at this time. Now, sir, this appropriation should, at any rate, be amended so as to read, “for repairing and finishing the Capitol extension,” &c. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. I have no objection to that amendment; I think it is very proper. Mr. Pruyn. Does the gentleman from Illinois think that this appropriation will finish the work? The Speaker. The Clerk will read the paragraph as it will be when amended. The Clerk read as follows: For repairing and finishing the Capitol extension, 9100,000. Mr. Newcomb. I move to amend, so that the paragraph will read, “ For removing the Capitol,” &c. [Laughter.] The Speaker. That would scarcely be germane. Mr. Selye. I see that in this bill we have the following appropriation: For the annual repairs, such as painting, glazing, keeping roots in order; also water-pipes, pave- ments, and approaches to public buildings, 915,000. Now, if that appropriation is to pass, I shall ask that the appropriation of $105,000 be cut down to $50,000, so as to make the whole appropriation $65,000. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. I believe my friend’s time has expired. I ask whether the amendment to the phraseology of the paragraph is considered as adopted? The Speaker. It is regarded as pending. The first question is upon that amend- ment. The question will then be upon the amendment reported from the Com- mittee of the Whole, to strike out the paragraph. The amendment of Mr. Selye was adopted. The question then recurred on the amendment of the Committee of the Whole, to strike out the paragraph. The amendment was not agreed to. [From the “Act making Appropriations for sundry civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending June thirty, eighteen hundred and sixty-nine, and for other Purposes,” approved July 20, 1868. (Stats, at Large, v. 15, 115.)] PUBLIC WORKS UNDER THE SUPERVISON OF THE ARCHITECT OF THE CAPITOL EXTENSION. For repairing and finishing the capitol extension, one hundred thousand dollars: Provided, That no improvements, alterations, or repairs of the capitol building shall be made except by direction and under the supervision of the architect of the capitol extension. [House of Representatives Ex. Doc. No. 101, 40th Congress, 3d session. Decoration United States Capitol. Letter from the Secretary of the Interior, relative to the cost of art decorations at the United States Capitol. March 1, 1869.— Referred to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds and ordered to be printed.] Department of the Interior, Washington, D. C., March 1, 1869. Sir: Pursuant to the resolution of the House of Representatives, third session of the 40th Congress, adopted February 2, 1869, requesting the Secretary of the Interior to furnish a statement of the various amounts paid for works of art to decorate the Capitol since the first day of January, 1855, up to the present time. I have the honor to transmit herewith a copy of a statement furnished this department under date of the 26th ultimo, by Edward Clark, esq., architect of the Capitol extension, which contains the desired information. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, O. H. Browning, Secretary. Hon. Schuyler Colfax, Speaker of the House of Representatives. The Extensions. 863 Architect’s Office, United States Capitol Extension, Washington, I>. C., February, 1S69. Sir: In compliance with your directions, I have the honor to submit the accom- panying statement in answer to the following resolution of the House of Representa- tives of February 2, 1869: Resolved, That the Secretary of the Interior be, and is hereby, directed to furnish this House a state- ment of the various amounts paid for works of art to decorate the Capitol, such as statues, paintings in oil, frescoes, (including the picture in the dome,) and bronzes, since the 1st day of January, 1855, up to the present time. Also the names of the different artists, whether they were foreign or native, the sum received by each for their work, and by what authority they were employed. Statement of amounts paid, and to whom, out of funds appropriated for the Capitol exten- sion, for works of art to decorate the Capitol, viz: Amount paid to Thomas Crawford, (American,) for models for pediment of north wing, and the models of Justice and History over the doorway of main entrance to north wing $20, 000. 00 Amount paid to Thomas Gagliardi, (Italian, ) for cutting, in marble, wheat sheaf, anchor, group of instruction, and youths 5, 500. 00 Amount paid to Gagliardi and Casoni, (Italians,) for cutting, in marble, figure of America, and Indian Family 7, 000. 00 Paid to G. Casprero, (Italian,) for cutting, in marble, Indian Grave 400. 00 Amount paid to G; 'Butti, (Italian,) for cutting, in marble, the following figures, viz: Soldier 1 , 600. 00 Commerce 2, 200. 00 Woodman 2, 550. 00 Indian Chief 3, 000. 00 Hunter 2, 000. 00 Amount paid to H. Giampaoli, (Italian, ) for cutting, in marble, figure of Mechanic 1, 900. 00 The marble for the above statuary is from the quarries at Lee, Massachusetts, and was taken, I believe, from the blocks furnished for other portions of the wings, and for which no separate account appears. Amount paid to Thomas Crawford, for statues of Justice and History, over principal doorway north wing. $3, 000. 00 Paid to G. Butti, for pedestal for niche in Senate retiring room 400. 00 Paid to G. Butti, for modelling mask of Justice for door of House of Rep- resentatives 80. 00 Paid to G. Butti, for modelling Eagle for block 80. 00 Paid Thomas Crawford, for models of bronze door for main entrance to north wing 6, 000. 00 Amount to William H. Rinehart, for plaster model for bronze door designed by Thomas Crawford for main entrance to south wing 8, 940. 00 Amount paid to Randolph Rogers, (American,) for plaster model of bronze door in passage way leading from old to new Hall of Repre- sentatives 8, 000. 00 Amount paid F. Von Miller, (German,) for casting, in bronze, the door designed by Randolph Rogers 17,000,00 Amount paid to James T. Ames, (American, ) for casting, in bronze, door designed by Thomas Crawford, for main entrance to north wing 50, 495. 11 Amount paid to Archer, Warner, Miskey & Co., (Americans,) for bronze railings for stairways, Senate and House 22, 498. 12 864 Documentary History of the Capitol. Amount paid Archer, Warner, Miskey & Co., for bronze eagle for clock in House of Representatives §150. 00 Amount paid to Cornelius & Baker, (Americans,) for bronze Corinthian caps for columns and pilasters in main stairway 3, 621. 00 Amount paid to Cornelius & Baker, for bronze arms to gallery seats, House of Representatives 2, 575. 00 Amount paid to C. Brumidi, (Italian,) for decorating, in fresco, various committee and other rooms, from April 7, 1855, to December 3, 1864, at §10 per diem 19, 483. 51 Amount paid C. Brumidi, for designing and painting, in fresco, three panels and three corner groups of figures on ceiling of Senate post office, as per authority of the Secretary of the Interior, dated August 13, 1866 4, 989. 00 Amount paid E. Leutze, (German, ) for painting picture of Emigration on wall of western stairway, House of Representatives 20, 000. 00 Amount paid James Walker, (American,) for picture of Storming of Chepultepec, now hanging in western stairway of north wing 6, 137. 37 Amount paid, and to whom, out of funds appropriated for the construc- tion of the new dome, viz: Amount paid to Thomas Crawford, for modelling, in plaster, figure of Freedom, to surmount dome 3, 000. 00 Amount paid to Clark Mills, (American,) for casting, in bronze, the figure of Freedom, to surmount the dome 9, 800. 00 Amount paid for labor, iron work and copper, for statue of Freedom. 10, 996. 82 Amount paid to C. Brumidi, for painting, in fresco, picture on canopy of dome 39, 500. 00 Other ornamental painting in halls of legislation, committee rooms, and passages, and bronze works, such as ornaments for doors, and register fronts, &c., have been done by day workmen, the cost of which cannot be ascertained from the rolls. The above was ordered by the officers in charge of the construction of the wings and the new dome, without any direct sanction of Congress. Congress, by an act approved August 18, 1856, appropriated §20,000 for w r orks of art, &c., to ornament the Capitol, under the direction of the Joint Committee on the Library, and by act of July 28, 1866, appropriated a further sum of §5,000, for a sim- ilar purpose, to be expended under the direction of the same committee. From the amount thus appropriated the following sums have been paid, viz: Amount paid to H. D. Saunders, (American,) for bust of Kosciusko §500 Amount paid to Horatio Stone, (American, ) for statue of Hancock 5, 500 Amount paid to Mrs. S. F. Ames, (American, ) for bust of President Lincoln. 1, 500 Amount paid to Miss C. L. Ransom, (American), for portrait of Hon. J. R. Giddings 1, 000 Amount paid to Lloratio Stone, for statue of Hamilton 10, 000 Amount paid to Mrs. S. F. Ames, for additional compensation for bust of President Lincoln, as per act approved July 20, 1868 500 By an act approved March 3, 1855, §25,000 were appropriated to enable the Presi- dent to contract with Hiram Pow r ers for some work of art to decorate the Capitol, out of which the following sums have been paid, viz: Paid to Hiram Powers, (American,) for statue of Jefferson §10, 000 Paid to same, for statue of Franklin 10, 000 I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Edw’d Clakk, Architect. The Extensions. 865 [From the “Act making Appropriations for the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial Expenses of the Government for the Year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and seventy,” approved Mar. 3, 1869. (Stats, at Large, v. 15, 284.)] For packing-boxes for the Senate, ten dollars’ worth for each member, seven hun- dred and forty dollars: Provided, That all improvements, alterations, additions, and repairs of the Capitol building shall hereafter be made by the direction and under the supervision of the architect of the Capitol extensions, and the same shall be paid for out of the appropriations for the said extensions and from no other appropria- tion; and that no furniture or carpets for either house shall hereafter be purchased without the written order of the chairman of the committee to audit and control the contingent expenses of the Senate, for the Senate, or without the written order of the chairman of the committee on accounts of the House of Representatives, for the House. [From the “Act making Appropriations for Sundry Civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and seventy, and for other Purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1869. (Stats, at Large, v. 15, 306.)] Public Works under the Supervision of the Architect of the Capitol Extension . — For fin- ishing and repairing the work of the United States Capitol extension, seventy-five thousand dollars. [From the “Act making Appropriations to supply Deficiencies in the Appropriations for the Service of the Government for the fiscal Year ending June thirty, eighteen hundred and seventy, and for other Purposes,” approved Apr. 20, 1870. (Stats, at Large, v. 16, 86.)] For continuing the work on the capitol grounds, and repairing the capitol build- ing, twenty thousand dollars. [House proceedings of June 27, 1870: Congressional Globe, 41 — 2, p. 4871.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1871 — The clerk read as follows: For finishing and repairing the work on the new Dome of the Capitol, $4,000. Mr. Farnsworth. I move to insert the following: For enlarging the doorways or openings in the passages between the Senate and House wings of the Capitol, and removing the bronze doors from the passage to them, which now obstruct one of said passages, ,$10,000. Mr. Chairman, I have no doubt that it has occurred to other members than myself that the doorways between this and the other end of the Capitol are narrow and insignificant. They do not at all conform to the character of the building. We have a small, low doorway in a lofty, handsome passage between the two wings of this great Capitol. It is not suitable. It is insignificant. It is a mean passage, a con- stant obstruction, and ought to be removed. In reference to the bronze doors, it must have occurred to every member that where they are they are a great nuisance. Strangers gather round and block up the way so that it is often difficult to get by. It is not a proper place for those doors. Many pieces of the bronze have been chipped off and carried away by strangers as curiosities of the Capitol. Now, Mr. Chairman, these bronze doors should be removed outside to the east front of this wing in the same situation relatively as the bronze doors of the Senate wing. They should be used for outside duty and not for II. Rep. 646 55 Documentary History of the Capitol. 866 inside duty. They should certainly, however, be removed from their present loca- tion, where they are an obstruction to the passage, where they cannot be seen well, and where they are by no means safe from injury. I do not say where they shall be placed, but I leave it to the architect to say. Mr. Schenck. I offered a resolution at one time for the removal of those bronze doors. The architect of the Capitol was instructed to remove those doors for the reasons which the gentleman has assigned. The design was that they should be placed on the east front of this wing; but the architect reported that the marble door was not of a size fitted for the purpose. I am in favor of the gentleman’s proposition for the removal of those doors; but it should not only provide for the removal of the doors, but for placing them at some suitable place in the exterior of the building. Mr. Farnsworth. I have no objection to that modification being made to my proposition. Mr. Schenck. The gentleman’s amendment now provides only for removing the doors. I propose not only to remove them, but to provide for placing them at some suitable exterior entrance to this wing. Mr. Dawes. Mr. Chairman, I trust this House will not by an amendment put on this appropriation bill, without any consideration whatever, undertake to destroy the architectural plan on which this building has been constructed, and especially when the gentleman, a gentleman of taste and skill, and I have no doubt learned in architecture himself, states that he does not know what we had better do in placing these bronze doors after they have been removed. The convenience of the passage between the two wings of course must be looked to; but if it be as he now says it will not help the matter by enlarging the door to which he refers, when we have doors of the same size at the entrance to this and to the other Hall. If the small doorway approaching to this Hall troubles my friend from Illinois, if he cannot get through the door behind him at the present size, I ask him to turn round and say how we are to enlarge it. If we enlarge one we shall have to enlarge them all. We might all of us, especially those who have seen a good deal of the world and visited magnificent buildings elsewhere, suggest an improvement upon this building that would enhance its beauty and its convenience; there is not a member of the House but could do that; I think I could myself. But I submit whether it is exactly proper, in connection with an appropriation bill, to undertake here without due consideration to alter the whole plan. When it was stated some years ago by the gentleman from Ohio [Mr. Schenck] that he could not get to the Senate Chamber because there were obstacles in the way, the architect of the building reported that if you enlarged that approach as you went out of the old Hall into the Rotunda you would let the framework of the Dome down; that it was already settling down, and if you enlarged that approach it would come down about your ears. And we have heard no more of it until my friend from Illinois [Mr. Farnsworth] has got his eye on the Senate, and wants the way to the other end of the Capitol improved, so that he may find no obstacle in his passage to that body. I submit that it is a pretty good passage as it is, and that if we are to enlarge it we should have some architect who knows more about it than we do, and who can devote more of his time to it than we possibly can in a five- minutes con- sideration of the amendment. The Chairman. Debate is exhausted on the pending amendment. Mr. Farnsworth. I move to amend it by increasing the amount from $10,000 to $11,000. I do this to enable me to add a few words to what I have already said. In order to see the necessity of what I propose, I think members have only to look through, as the gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Dawes] invites them to do, from the House to the Senate. The gentleman is mistaken when he supposed that I The Extensions. 867 asked that the door by which we have access to this Hall shall be enlarged, and that the entrance to the Senate Chamber shall be enlarged. The door here is large enough for my friend or myself to enter the House, and I have no doubt the door of the Senate Chamber is large enough for him also. But this is not the point. The crowds who flock to the Capitol do not enter the Senate Hall nor the House flail, but they do flock from one wing to the other and obstruct the passage. Let any gentleman stand in the center of the corridor, and he will see that the obstruction is chiefly at the doorways into the Rotunda on the other side of the old Hall of Repre- sentatives. My friend from Massachusetts is too good an architect to pronounce the judgment himself that alteration in those doorways cannot be made with safety. They are low, and the casings are wooden, not marble nor iron, nor made of any other kind of metal. And there are corresponding doors from the Rotunda on the other side, insignificant doorways in a lofty, handsome passage. It is like putting new wine into old bottles; it is half doing the thing. Row, it would be a very insignificant expense to enlarge those doorways a little. I do not know that it would be necessary that a vote for that purpose should go through the Committee on Appropriations. I observe that the committee have expended considerable time in putting several private claims at the end of this bill, many of them claims, too, which have been resisted and opposed by several of the committees of this House. And I suppose it is because the committee have spent their time in manipulating little private claims and sticking them into an appropria- tion bill that they have not had time to look after matters such as this which I now bring under the attention of the House. Mr. Conger. I rise to oppose the amendment. I understand that it is proposed to rearrange the whole of the doorways and the passage between the House and the Senate. I understand that this is in order that members of the House may be admitted into the Senate Hall more readily. Now, I would suggest that the door- ways by which ambitious gentlemen may pass from this House to the Senate are not in this Capitol, but are in the States. It is there that ambitious men must look for the passage by which they may pass from this body to the Senate. [Laughter.] Mr. Swann. I desire to ask the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Farnsworth] whether or not the improvement he proposes has been recommended by a competent archi- tect — whether it has been recommended by the architect of the Capitol, or by any other upon whose skill and judgment reliance can be placed? Now, sir, I am disposed to favor the amendment of the honorable gentleman from Illinois. These doors are high works of art, and the ground upon which I would advocate the amendment of the gentleman from Illinois is that they should be placed in a position where they can be appreciated by the public. It is well known that where they stand now they are buried. There is no one who has had an opportunity to examine these works of art, which I myself appre- ciate and which are appreciated by the country, who will not say that they are now in such a position that they cannot be seen to advantage. I think, there- fore, that if the suggestion is made here by any competent architect that will bring these works of art into such a position that they will be seen by the public, it will be an improvement that I do not think any gentleman in this House could object to. I do not mean to say that it will require an expenditure of $10,000. I do not mean to pronounce an opinion as to the propriety of enlarging all these doors from the House of Representatives to the Senate, although I am rather disposed to think that an enlargement is necessary in order to give proper effect to this build- ing. But I do say that in the position in which these doors stand now they are at a great disadvantage; they are not doing justice to the artist who conceived these designs; and I will cordially unite with the gentleman from Illinois in any sugges- tion which may bring these great works of art into such a position as will not only 868 Documentary History of the Capitol. do justice to the artist who conceived them, but will he creditable to this building. I therefore cordially cooperate with the honorable gentleman from Illinois in the suggestion which he makes. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Dawes. If the suggestion of the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Farnsworth] were what the gentleman from Maryland [Mr. Swann] supposes, no one would object to it. That the bronze doors are in the wrong place is admitted by the archi- tect of the building; that he does not intend to keep them there is well known to those who have knowledge of his plans. They were placed where they now are temporarily while the architect was waiting for their counterparts to arrive. They have arrived and have been placed at the front of the Senate Chamber. The orig- inal design was to put them both in the Rotunda. It was found impossible to put them in the Rotunda. When the first ones came they were placed temporarily where they now are. The last ones have been put in the front of the Senate Cham- ber, and it is designed ultimately to put the others in front of this House. But that is not the proposition of the gentleman from Illinois. His proposition is to enlarge these approaches to the Senate and the House from the Rotunda. I was informed by the architect, when this question was raised once before, that he was apprehensive that the iron Dome would not permit of that enlargement, and for us without due consideration to require it to be done seems to me to be very unwise. That the doors will be removed to the front of the building without any action by us I have no doubt. Mr. Swann. I withdraw the amendment. Mr. Wood. I renew it. I think if there is anything that illustrates the instability of the American character and of American institutions it is the style of architecture that has been adopted periodically with reference to this Capitol. Since the original erection of the Capitol nearly every Congress, and certainly every Administration, has done something to change it. We have no fixed style of architecture; we have no plan; -we have nothing stable; nothing is fixed beyond this periodical disposition of the American people to change, change, change. We no sooner establish one thing, however well and carefully matured, than those who succeed us in public life see some improvement to be made, and make a still further change. This is, how- ever, I regret to say, the physical temperament of the American people. Now, sir, in my judgment we have changed this Capitol within twenty-five years, to a disadvantage. In the old Hall, with its southern exposure, we had a continual southern breeze to enliven us at this season of the year in the duties of legislation. But by this change w r e have arranged a gorgeous and magnificent Hall, and shut out the air of heaven; almost shut out the very light of heaven, thus injuring our health and retarding our progress in legislation and the discussion thereon. Some gentlemen rise here and propose to change the avenues leading from this Hall to the Rotunda, and from the Rotunda to the Senate Chamber. Now, I say to gentlemen on that side of the House, that to enlarge the avenues in this building to the Senate Chamber will not enable them to reach the Senate Chamber, for public opinion in this country will have something to say on that subject. The sober second thought now taking place throughout the length and breadth of this land will say in regard to the seats now here that they shall soon know the present incumbents no more forever. Instead of reaching the Senate Chamber, they will not even get back here again. Mr. Dawes. Now let us have a vote. Mr. Wood. I meant no personal application to the gentleman in what I said. The question was on the amendment moved by Mr. Farnsworth. Mr. Farnsworth. As the gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Dawes] says the architect of the Capitol considers that the change Avould be dangerous to the Dome of the Capitol, I will withdraw the amendment which I have offered. The Extensions. 869 [From the “Act making Appropriations for sundry civil Expenses of the Government for the Year ending June thirty, eighteen hundred and seventy-one, and for other Purposes,” approved July 15, 1870. (Stats, at Large, V. 16, 302.)] Under the Direction of the Architect of the Capitol Extension . — For finishing and repair- ing the work on the Capitol extension, and for curbing and flagging upper terraces, one hundred thousand dollars. [From the “Act making Additional Appropriations and to supply the Deficiencies in the Appropria- tions for the Service of the Government for the fiscal Years ending June thirty, eighteen hundred and seventy, and June thirty, eighteen hundred and seventy-one, and for other Purposes,” approved July 15, 1870. (Stats, at Large, v. 16, 309, 312.)] That the Sergeant-at-Arms of the Senate, and he is hereby, authorized and directed to purchase two exhaust fans, one engine, exhaust pipes, and so forth, for the removal of the impure air of the Senate chamber, and there is hereby appropriated the sum of five thousand dollars to purchase the same, or so much thereof as may be neces- sary: Provided, That the improvements be made under the supervision of the engineer of the Senate, and that the joint committee on ventilation be directed to inquire into the practicability and expense of making such alterations in the Senate chamber and the hall of the House of Representatives as will bring said chamber and hall to the exterior of the building. For ceiling with iron laths under the copper roof of the hall of the House of Representatives, and for additional glass panels, flues, doors, and apparatus for improving the lighting and ventilating of said hall, to be expended under the direc- tion of the architect of the Capitol, fifteen thousand dollars. [House proceedings of Feb. 24, 1871: Congressional Globe, 41 — 3, p. 161.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1872 — The Clerk read as follows: Public buildings: Under the direction of the architect of the Capitol extension— For finishing and repairing the work on the Capitol extension and for curbing and flagging upper terraces, $65,000. Mr. Jexckes. I offer the following amendment from the select Committee on the Ventilation of the Hall, to come in after the paragraph just read: For enlarging air shaft, plastering ceiling of corridor, readjustment of flues under the floor, new register and for new floor in the Hall of the House of Representatives, for additional fans for exhaustion of vitiated air from the Hall, and for engine to operate them, and for additional ventilators in the roof of the Hall, and for necessary alterations in lighting, heating, and ventilating-apparatus, $20,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary. The best argument in support of this amendment is the condition of the air in the Hall to-day. During the greater portion of this session the ventilation has been reasonably good. There has been very little complaint from members either of too much air, or of too much heat, or too much cold. But this is one of the days on which coal fires will hardly burn, on which the best chimneys will not draw, and, as many gentlemen have noticed and remarked to the officers in charge, there are downward currents felt in various parts of the Hall. The reason of that is that the principle upon which this Hall is sought to be ventilated is by forcing air into the Hall from below and allowing it to escape at the roof, expecting that there would be a continuous flow of air from the place of supply to the place of discharge; but on days like this the current is checked, and we consequently feel the air revolving over and over in the Hail without its moving freely out of it. The object of this amend- ment is to enlarge the air-shaft that descends from the roof down to the neighborhood of the ascending flues of the chimney with which it is now connected, to double its capacity, and to place within it or adjoining it two additional fans of the same description as those that now force the air into the Hall, for the purpose of exhaust- ing the vitiated air from it 870 Documentary History of the Capitol. The amendment is also for another purpose. In the construction of the floor of this Hall the registers were so placed that much of the dust in sweeping, and many of the scraps of paper, and of one thing and another that is thrown upon the floor, is drawn into them during the day; and when in the mornings the hot air is forced into the flues, in winter, and when the fans are set in motion in summer, all this accumulation of dust is thrown out and mixed with the air in the Hall, making it uncomfortable for a long time, and sometimes during the whole day. Hence the irritation of the throat, and tits of coughing, of which members vainly seek the cause. It is proposed to change the entire arrangement of the flues and registers, so as to obviate this difficulty. With these two alterations it is expected that there will be a great increase in the comfort of the Hall. The alterations that have already been made are felt for the greater portion of the time. These alterations are needed for exceptional times and occasions. The amendment was agreed to. Mr. Farnsworth. I move to amend by inserting: “for widening the passage ways between the Senate and House wings of the Capitol, $10,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary.” Mr. Speaker, at the last session I offered an amendment similar to this, which was rejected, upon the understanding, I think, of the chairman of the Committee on Appropriations, that the attempt to make this improvement would endanger the stability of the Dome. That impression, however, w r as corrected the next day by a letter from the architect of the Capitol. In that letter, which was published in the Globe of last session, the architect said there was no such danger as had been appre- hended; that in fact he had already advocated some remodeling of the internal arrangements of the Capitol, one feature of which was the widening of the doors. The bronze doors, as I understand, were never intended to be kept where they now are. Mr. Dawes. Has the gentleman from Illinois found his progress to the Senate obstructed in consequence of the narrowness of the passage way? [Laughter.] Mr. Farnsworth. That joke is not very new; but I will say that I have not been obstructed particularly in that regard. Seriously, I desire the attention of the House to this matter, for every member of the House, I think, must have experienced the inconvenience resulting from the blocking up of these passage ways. In a building like this, which has cost so much money for its construction and adornment, it is out of all keeping to have these narrow doorways between the two wings. As the architect informed me last session, a small appropriation will probably be sufficient to make the needed improvement, which could be done without at all endangering in any way the stability of the building. I hope there will be no objection to my amendment. Mr. Sargent. The objection raised last year was that the proposed change might endanger the stability of the Dome. Has the Government any evidence that such would not be the effect? Mr. Farnsworth. I will read to the House the letter of the architect of the Capitol: Architect’s Office, United States Capitol Extension, Washington, D. C., June 27, 1870. Sir: In reply to your inquiries relative to the enlargement of the doorways leading from the Halls into the Rotunda, I will say that there has been some error in the statement that I have reported this change unsafe on account of the Dome. So far from this being the case, I have made and advocated a plan for the remodeling of the Rotunda, the principal features of which are the enlargement of the doorways in question. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Edward Clark, Architect. Hon. .1. F. Farnsworth, House of Representatives. The Extensions. 871 At the last session we were requested to postpone this proposition till the present session. I believe that at that time no gentleman in this House opposed the object I had in view, and I do not think any gentleman will oppose it now, for the improve- ment contemplated is highly necessary and is in keeping with the character of the building. Mr. Dawes. Mr. Speaker, it will be observed by the letter which the gentleman has read that the ideas of the architect of the Capitol in reference to widening these doors are connected with a plan of alteration (I do not know how extensive) of the whole of that part of the Capitol. It does not seem to me exactly safe for us here in the House to direct one particular part of the plan to be executed unless we have the whole plan of the architect before us and design to carry it out. What that plan is I do not know; and even if I comprehended the plan to which the architect has alluded in his letter I would not think it proper to incorporate it in an appropriation bill. Mr. Farnsworth. My amendment does not direct absolutely that the change shall be made. Mr. Dawes. Would the gentleman be willing to add the clause “if the architect of the Capitol should deem it advisable?” Mr. Farnsworth. Certainly. Mr. Sargent. I suggest that there be added also a proviso that any additional expense incurred beyond the amount named shall be unlawful. Mr. Maynard. I move, pro forma , to amend the amendment by adding $500 to the amount of the proposed appropriation. I submit the amendment for the purpose of advocating this great improvement. These doors have been in the Capitol a long time. When they were built they were large enough for the sort of men who then passed through them. But men have been growing. We are a larger race than those for whom these doors were constructed; and, as a gentlemen near me suggests, there are more of us. Many of us recollect that on the night of the inauguration of the statue of Mr. Lincoln we found those doors too small, as well as insufficient in number. I think that the amendment ought certainly to be adopted. I would have these doors something like old-fashioned barn doors, through which loads of hay could be driven. The idea of restricting these means of communication to the narrow limits which were sufficient fifty or even twenty-five years ago is one which I hope will not be countenanced for one moment by this House. Mr. Farnsworth. 1 have modified my amendment to meet the suggestions of the gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Dawes] and the gentleman from California, [Mr. Sargent.] I ask that it be read in its modified form. The Clerk read as follows: For widening the passage-ways between the Senate and House wings of the Capitol, $10,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary, if the architect of the Capitol shall deem the same safe and prac- ticable; and any expenditure on a plan that shall cost a greater sum to complete it shall be unlawful. The question being taken on agreeing to the amendment, as modified, there were — - ayes 24, noes 42; no quorum voting. Tellers were ordered; and Mr. Farnsworth and Mr. Hale were appointed. The House divided; and the tellers reported — ayes ninety, noes not counted. So the amendment was agreed to. [From the “Act making Appropriations for sundry civil Expenses of the Government for the fiscal Year ending June thirty, eighteen hundred and seventy-two, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1871. (Stats, at Large, v. 16, 500-1.)] Under the direction of the architect of the Capitol extension: For improving the heating and ventilating of the Senate, under the direction of the architect of the Capitol extension, three thousand dollars. 872 Documentary History of the Capitol. For furnishing and repairing the work on the Capitol extension, and for curbing and flagging upper terraces, sixty-five thousand dollars. For enlarging air-shaft, plastering ceiling of corridors, readjustment of flues under the floor, new registers, and for new floor in the Hall of the House of Representa- tives; for additional fans for the exhaustion of vitiated air from the Hall, and for engines to operate them, and for additional ventilators in the roof of the Hall, and for necessary alterations in the lighting, heating, and ventilating apparatus, twenty thousand dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary. For widening the passage-ways between the Senate and House wings of the Capi- tol, ten thousand dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, if the architect shall deem the same safe and practicable; and any expenditure on a plan that shall cost a greater sum to complete it, shall be unlawful. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1871. (42 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, p. 1125.)] By direction of the Committee on Ventilation a new floor has been placed in the Hall of Representatives, so planned as to make space for additional desks. The flues beneath are so arranged as to distribute fresh air more equally than heretofore from the fronts of the platform through adjustable registers. The ventilating shaft has been considerably enlarged so as to insure a copious supply of air. A steam-engine, with two large fans, capable of expelling 50,000 cubic feet of air per minute, has been placed in the cellar of the south wing. * * * Some changes have been made in the floor of the Senate Chamber by the introduc- tion of registers of a peculiar construction, devised by the Senate engineer. [From the "Act making Appropriations to supply Deficiencies in the Appropriations for the Service of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirt 3 % eighteen hundred and seventy-two, and for former Years, and for other Purposes,” approved May 18, 1872. (Stats, at Large, v. 17, 131.) ] Capitol Extension . — For the purpose of buying and putting in place a new boiler, water-tank, and steam pump in the south wing of the Capitol, ten thousand dollars; * * * [Senate proceedings of June 7, 1872: Congressional Globe, 42 — 2, p. 4352.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1873 — Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. I am also directed by the Committee on Public Build- ings and Grounds to offer the following amendment, to come in after line nine hundred and sixty-five, on page 40: For constructing under-ground air-shaft for inlet of fresh air to Senate Chamber: for plastering on iron laths under roof of Senate Chamber; additional fire-proof felting for steam-pipes; and for con- structing ventilating-flues for corridors, §12,000. And so much of the sum appropriated in the defi- ciency act, approved May 18, 1872, for the boiler and water-tank and steam-pump in the south wing of the Capitol as may not be expended previous to June 30, 1872,. may be expended during the fiscal year ending June 30, 1873. I will explain this amendment. Senators will remember that only a few weeks ago, when a south wind occurred, the smoke from the center building struck down into the area here, and came into the Chamber so as to be very disagreeable indeed, filling the room with gas and with sulphurous smoke. In order to avoid that it is proposed to have a duct go out on the lower space in front of the building, so as to get pure air. The Extensions. 873 In addition to that, it will have been noticed by some Senators that the House have already got their roof lined with iron laths and plaster, which is regarded as a very great improvement. In addition, it is thought necessary that this corridor on the north side of the Chamber should be ventilated, and it is necessary to have apertures made in order to carry off the foul air that gathers here in the winter season as well as in the summer season. Then there was an appropriation made for a deficiency in the bill passed May 18, 1872, for a boiler and water-tank, but it is manifestly impossible for that work to be done until after the adjournment of Congress, and then under our laws the appro- priation will have been covered into the Treasury. That was not the intention, and this amendment merely rectifies that. Mr. Logan. What is the amount of expenditure for that duct? Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. For the whole, for procuring fresh air, and iron laths and steam-pipes and ventilation, the appropriation is $12,000. It was by mistake printed $72,000. We only asked for $12,000. Mr. Trumbull. If the Senator will add to that a provision for pure air by carrying this Chamber to the exterior of the building, I am prepared to vote for it and have been for the last ten years. Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. I think that is a subject big enough for the new Reform party. [Laughter.] Mr. Trumbull. I think some reform party or somebody else ought to take hold of this Hall and extend it to the exterior of the building. The idea that for all time to come Senators are to be excluded from the air and light of heaven is a little too much. I have always thought it was a great mistake from the first session we spent in this Chamber. I believe it will come to that at some time, and I think steps ought to be taken to commence the work. I understand the House of Representatives are moving in that direction now, to extend their Chamber to the exterior walls. These grounds are to be improved; we are to have a beautiful prospect, with trees and flowers surrounding us; and yet we are to be shut up here in the center of a building like a dungeon, and breathe the air that is pumped into us; and now $12,000 is to be appropriated to pump it from another direction. It is said that the wind flies down from the top of the building, and smoke gets mixed up with the kind of air that is brought in here, and now you want to make a duct to extend out of the building where you can get another quality of air. Mr. Morrill, of Maine. The whole of this appropriation is not for that. It includes various other things. Mr. Logan. I should like to ask the Senator from Vermont if this appropriation is to be expended under the direction of the Speaker? Mr. Morrill, of Maine. Of course it is to be expended under the architect of the Capitol extension. Mr. Logan. I merely wish to state that the gentleman who made the suggestion or recommendation for this work thought it could be done for less money than that; and I know he thinks so yet; and I do not know why the architect should recom- mend the appropriation of more money than the gentleman who made the suggestion of the plan thinks is necessary. Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. I will say in reply to the Senator, that I am sure no more money will be expended by the architect of the Capitol extension than is abso- lutely necessary, for if there is an officer of the Government who deserves to be complimented for his economy, I am sure the architect of the Capitol is that man. Mr. Conkling. I wish to say one word about this subject. I do not want to interfere with any other Senator. * * * The Presiding Officer. The question now recurs on the amendment of the Sen- ator from Vermont, [Mr. Morrill.] 874 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Conkling. If the success of this $12,000 amendment has anything to do with the question suggested by the Senator from Illinois [Mr. Trumbull] I wish to join him now in entering my protest against it. Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. It has not I can assure the Senator. Mr. Conkling. I am not so sure of that, and I want to say a word about it. If Jefferson Davis had never engaged in rebellion against his country, I think he would lie sufficiently guilty for being responsible, as I understand he is, for cooping up the Senate in this iron box covered with glass. As has been said, who ever heard of putting men or animals in a box inside of a building, shut out on every hand from the outer air, then going to work by artificial means and contrivances to pump up and blow up atmosphere so that they shall not be like a rat in an exhausted receiver, dying from the want of anything to breathe? Mr. Corbett. I would like to state to the Senator that we know of one case, and that is the Tombs in New York, where the same provision is made. [Laughter.] Mr. Conkling. No, Mr. President, I think my friend will look in vain even in the Tombs for a parallel to that unless he refers to that Tombs on which was founded the remark “ Hark, from the Tombs a mournful sound.” [Laughter.] I was going to say this : man is a creature of imagination. We find in life and we find by looking at the books that you can kill a man with no more deadly weapon than imagination. It is one of the most effective ways of producing death, and I believe that the members of this Senate are dying, not merely from w'ant of fresh air, not merely from the fact which your hygrometer before it was thrown down and broken would teach you, that in place of there being in a cubic foot of air as many grains of moisture as there should be, there had been sometimes not half as many — I believe we are dying not only from that, but because we are shut out from those aliments which imagination, if not our corporeal economy, renders necessary for the preservation of human life. You may pump into this iron box air which as analyzed or tested by the little instrument that used to stand here behind us is, if you please, in temperature that of summer, in quality that, of the outer atmosphere, but if you will never let him who breathes it see earth or sky, trees or grass, any- thing which reminds him of nature, you are starving him for the want of that upon which complete existence depends. I am not going into any philosophy about this. It is not a matter of fancy; it is a matter of fact. There is no man who sits here whose health is not being impaired by the situation of things, by the way in which he is compelled to live; and it is monstrous after the experience we have had, to go on contemplating the idea that for all time men are to languish here with a feeling about their heads as if a tight band was drawn around them — and I think every Senator will know the feeling to which I refer — coming here in the morning with a feeling tolerably fresh, and after sitting here an hour languished and wearied with a sense of exhaustion and a sense of congestion about the head which every Senator has noticed — I say it is monstrous to contemplate the idea that this is to go on when we have only to take out that partition and yonder partition, and move this Chamber out to the corner where, like all other civilized people, we can have permission to breathe the air that God made, in place of breathing the air pumped up through these apertures, which have been used in the two Houses by a great many gentlemen for years under the apprehen- sion that they were spittoons. [Laughter.] The Presiding Officer. The Senator’s time has expired. Mr. Cole. Mr. President, this is a prolific subject. It has been discussed in this body before frequently and very fully, and I now ask the Senator from Vermont to withdraw the amendment, for I am sure that Senator must be conscious of the value of time. Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. I think there is no disposition to discuss the merits of this amendment. There is no objection to it, as I understand. Has anybody any objection to it? The Extensions. 875 Mr. Conkling. Yes, I have this objection to it: if this is to go on and perpetuate the business of trying experiments to see whether by another duct, or another flue, or another contrivance we cannot get some more air in here, or add to the moisture or improve it in some way, then I should be glad to have this thing continue until by its own corruptions it cures itself. Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. The Senator from New York must be quite conscious of the fact that with only one day intervening between this and the hour of adjourning it is impossible to consider the subject that he proposes. Mr. Conkling. Of course it is. Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. The amendment which I offer relates to four or five different subjects, and this is a minor one. If any Senator objects to this experi- ment, be it so; but whether the building be extended or not extended, this would be necessary and proper. Mr. Conkling. I withdraw all opjnosition to it. The Senator from Vermont under- stands it much better than I do, and I do not feel at liberty to interpose. Mr. Sprague. I desire to thank the Senator from New York for the remarks he has made in reference to this Chamber. There is no use of appropriating money for a ventilation which is destructive to the health and energy of the members; and it is passing strange to me that Senators will sit six, eight, and ten hours breathing diseased air, coming here fresh at the beginning of the session, and leaving impaired in health, and intellectually, and in almost every other way. I think it is time we should put our faces against any appropriation in the mode prescribed by the Senator from Vermont. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment of the Senator from Vermont. The amendment was agreed to. [From the 1 ‘Act making appropriations for sundry civil Expenses of the Government for the fiscal Year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and seventy-three, and for other Purposes,” approved June 10, 1872. (Stats, at Large, v. 17, 361, 362.)] Capitol Extension . — For finishing and repairing the work on the Capitol extension, and for completing the flagging of the upper terraces, fifty thousand dollars. , For an additional appropriation, to be expended under the direction of the joint committee on the library, to decorate the Capitol with such works of art as may be ordered and approved by said committee, as provided by act approved August eight- eenth, eighteen hundred and fifty-six, fifteen thousand dollars; and said committee, whenever, in their judgment, it shall be expedient, are authorized to accept any work of the fine arts on behalf of Congress, which may be offered, and- to assign the same such place in the Capitol as they may deem suitable, and shall have the super- vision of all works of art that may be placed in the Capitol. [House proceedings of Feb. 18, 1S73: Congressional Globe, 42 — 3, p. 1469.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1874 — Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. I move to insert after the paragraph last read the following: For alteration, extension, and refitting of Hall of the House of Representatives, for the accommo- dation of the increased number of members, and the better ventilation and lighting thereof, to-be expended under the supervision of the Architect of the Capitol Extension, $40,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary. Mr. Farnsworth. I make the point of order on that amendment. Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. I only desire to say that I am authorized to report this amendment by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, and the com- 876 Documentary History of the Capitol. mittee have a bill prepared, which they will report as soon as they can report any- thing. It would have been brought before the House before this if the rules had permitted it. I have had a consultation with the Supervising Architect, and while he does not think that all this amount will be needed, yet it may be needed, and he thinks this the cheapest and most feasible mode of making the alteration. The proposition is to extend the Hall to the southern side of the Capitol, taking in the lobby and the Speaker’s and other rooms. That is the only way by which we can get to the air and the light of heaven by any alteration that can be made in a single recess. To make any other alteration we would have to abandon this Hall for a session of Congress. This is the only opportunity when this matter can be brought before the House, and I think no point of order can lie against it, for the reason that it is already a law to repair and refit the Capitol. Mr. Farnsworth. I must insist on my point of order, that this is new legislation. There is no law authorizing this appropriation of money. I am opposed to the pro- posed remodeling of the Hall, and must insist on the point of order. The Chairman. The Chair must overrule the point of order, on the ground that it has been customary on appropriation bills heretofore to provide for finishing and making changes in the Capitol. Mr. Farnsworth. I must appeal from the decision of the Chair, and I desire the rule to be read on which the Chair bases his decision, for under it we might tear down the whole Capitol on an appropriation bill. The Chairman. Will the gentleman send up the law he desires to have read. Mr. Farnsworth. I have no law. Mr. Sargent. The appeal is not debatable. Mr. Platt. And I object to debate. Mr. Potter. Is there any law authorizing this amendment? The Chairman. The Chair has already ruled upon that point of order, and held that the amendment is in order. From that decision the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Farnsworth] has taken an appeal. The question is, ‘ 1 Shall the decision of the Chair stand as the judgment of this committee?” The question was taken; and upon a division there were^-ayes 61, noes 20. No further count being called for, the decision of the Chair was sustained. The question recurred upon the amendment moved by Mr. Butler, of Massachu- setts. Mr. Garfield, of Ohio. I desire, without wishing or seeking to influence the action of this Committee of the Whole, to call their attention to precisely what it is now proposed to do. I understand that the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds are in favor of the amendment here proposed by the gentleman from Massachusetts, [Mr. Butler.] The proposition was laid before the Committee on Appropriations, but we did not have time to consider it. Indeed our bill had been reported to the House and was in print before this proposition was submitted to us. There were, however, some objections raised, which I simply wish to state, not to argue or to urge upon the committee. The proposition is to take out the entire south side of this Chamber as now constructed; to remove the reporter’s gallery and the adjoining galleries, the Speaker’s parlor and the adjoining rooms on that side of the Hall, and to extend this room, with its cloak-rooms, to the outside of the building, to the outer south wall. In the committee there were two objections suggested in conversation on the subject, which perhaps it maybe well for gentlemen to consider. In the first place, it was alleged that this Hall was too large already; that but a very small proportion of the present members were able to make themselves audible to their fellow-members here or to the persons in the galleries. Some of the best members of this House are practically speechless so far as the great body of the hearers in and about' this Hall is concerned. And if we were to increase, to the extent proposed by this amendment, this Hall, already too large, it would only make The Extensions. it the more difficult for any man of ordinary vocal powers to be heard, the more especially when there is as much noise immediately about him as there is about me at this moment. Mr. Stevenson. If there were more space in the Hall the noise would be more distributed. Mr. Garfield, of Ohio. It is said by some that this Hall should be rather smaller than larger than it is. The fact is cited that when the House met in the old Hall it consisted of as many members as we now have here, though the old Hall, as mem- bers are well aware, is very much smaller than this Hall now is. Another objection suggested is that we now have two beautiful stairways, with elaborate bronze railings, coming up from the floor below. With the Hall extended as proposed those stairways will land immediately in the Hall itself, or they will have to be removed. A third point made was that the change might weaken the support of the Hall itself. I do not know that this last point is good for anything; the second is of no very great consequence. But the first certainly is entitled to some weight, and should be considered before we act. I simply throw out these suggestions that gentlemen may understand Avhat has been said against this propo- sition. / Mr. Dawes. I am naturally a little conservative, and inclined to hesitate a great deal before agreeing to any proposition that would lead to tearing up this Hall. I know as well as does my colleague [Mr. Butler] that something must be done to accommodate the increased number of Representatives of which the next House will be composed. Mr. Platt. I rise to a point of order. It is that this proposition made by the Com- mittee on Public Buildings and Grounds must come before the House and receive its affirmative action before an appropriation for the purpose will lie in order. The Chairman. The Chair has already ruled that the pending amendment is in order, and that decision on appeal has been sustained by the committee. Mr. Dawes. I was saying that I was afraid this was not the way to accomplish what we desire. I remember when we first came into this Hall. A committee had been appointed to examine it and report upon its acoustic properties. The members of that committee came here and took positions all about this Hall and tested those properties, and then returned to the old Hall and told us that a whisper could be heard anywhere in this Hall. There were then as many members in this House as there arenow. Every desk was full size, and there was a space around it so that every member could go all around his desk. There was also a central open space, and a space behind the seats, so that the Hall could be traversed in all directions. But though there were as many members then as there are now, there was some uneasiness and dissatisfaction about the Hall, and we voted out all those desks, and for one long term settees were provided, and we sat here and did penance at the bidding of the committee that forced that arrangement upon us. Then the settees were cleared out, and the desks were brought back again and doubled up, some of them like those just behind me here. Yet, although there are no more members here than before, by some fault in the arrangements of the seats we do not find the accommodations here that all feel we should have. Now, the difficulty has been in the arrangement of the seats. I feel a firm con- viction that by a proper arrangement of the seats forty additional members can be conveniently accommodated in this Hall. My apprehension is that if we should take out the whole of the southern wall of the Hall, and extend the Hall in that direction, we could not be heard. It would be equivalent to getting upon a ten-acre lot; and no mortal man, I am afraid, could make himself heard. I do not want to antagonize my colleague, who has spent more time on this subject than I have. I merely give these suggestions derived from experience. Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. I desire the House to observe, I will not say how 878 Documentary History of the Cajpitol. unfair, but how unpleasant it is to have sprung upon us now a debate upon a plan of alteration. The Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds have not had an opportunity to report and to put their plans before the House. They are having those plans prepared. But the last appropriation bill in which this appropriation can be inserted is now going through the House; the appropriation may be defeated under the rules unless inserted here. The appropriation which I am instructed to ask is only for a certain sum, or so much thereof as shall be necessary, to refit this Hall for the accommodation of the House hereafter. Now, when the committee report their plans, if members gener- ally object to those plans, if the sense of the House is against the proposition, then, when the whole matter is before the House, the proposition can be voted down and the Hall left as it is. But it will require, at any rate, some expenditure of money to put in this Ilall forty more seats. Hence there must be some appropriation. I agree that the acoustic properties of this Hall .are as bad as they can be; and I do not expect from an increase in the size of the Hall any improvement in that respect; nor does the Architect in his plan. The difficulty in this Hall (every man is feeling it to-day) is that we are here without any fresh air, and without any opportunity to get any other air than such as is pumped up through some under- ground channel. I do not know but it may prove convenient to move the northern wall of the Hall; but at any rate I want to get out to the air and light of heaven, where men can get fresh and pure air. In answer to the objections which have been made, I will also say that the gallery on the southern side of the Hall has nothing whatever to do with the support of the roof or the building. Nor does our plan interfere with those beautiful staircases of which the gentleman from Ohio [Mr. Gakfield] speaks, and which, by the way, are now where nobody can see them. We do not interfere with those at all, nor do we interfere with the supports of the building. Our proposition is to arrange the hall, if possible, so that members can be heard ; and we shall endeavor to put before the House, before we obtain any authority for an expenditure of money, a bill to which the House will agree. If the House should not agree to our plan, not a dollar will be expended; and if the plan be agreed to, only so much as is necessary will be spent. The appropriation cannot in any event be used for any other purpose. I am entirely willing to insert in this amendment, after the word “expended,” the words “ according to the resolution of the House,” or “according to plans to be here- after adopted.” I do not care what phraseology may be adopted, so that there is an appropriation which may be used whenever a plan can be agreed upon. If no other change is made than putting in this Hall forty additional seats, money must be appropriated for that. Mr. Gakfield, of Ohio. I suggest to the gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Butler] to modify his amendment so as to provide that the money appropriated shall be expended “on a plan to be adopted by the House.” In that form the amendment, I presume, will meet with no objection. Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. I am content with the proposition in that form. Mr. Kerr. Mr. Chairman, I think this amendment ought not to prevail. It seems to me a matter which we cannot now well or wisely decide. How the convenience of members is to be affected by the increased number who will occupy this House after the present Congress is a matter of experiment. We do not know how conven- iently or inconveniently they will be able to transact business in this Hall as it now is. My own judgment is that the number of persons in the next Congress will be too great for their convenient occupancy of this Hall. Yet that is a matter of experi- ment. In the English House of Commons there is not more than enough room to seat comfortably two hundred persons, yet that body consists of six hundred and sixty-eight members. This House of Representatives will, after the present Con- gress, consist of two hundred and ninety-two members, I believe. The Extensions. 879 Mr. Platt. Three hundred and two with Delegates. Mr. Kerr. Something over three hundred, including the Delegates from the Terri- tories. I believe it is practicable, without much crowding of the seats, to place all the new members in this Hall and give them comfortable seats. My chief objection to this proposed enlargement of the Hall now is that it is being prematurely done. We ought not to anticipate what may be the wishes of the next House. We ought to wait until they come here and until they are organized. Then by the experience of one session they may determine what they can best do, and what for the conven- ience of future Houses may require to be done. It seems to me that is the wiser course, and the one we ought now to adopt. I am thoroughly persuaded, for the convenience and health of members and the successful transaction of business in any legislative body, this Hall is now too large. Any gentleman may see at this instant with what an effort it is 1 make myself heard at all. It is not a pleasant effort to speak to the House so I can be heard now. If we enlarge this House by thirty or fifty feet on the south side, it seems to me we might as well go out into a ten-acre field and there hold our sessions. It will be spoiling it as a deliberative Hall for any purpose so far as the convenience and com- fort and physical health of members are concerned. There are members here to-day as intelligent, as well posted on every subject, and in every way as fit to instruct this House as anybody else, whose voices are hardly- ever heard here. And why? Because they lack the physical strength to make themselves heard. Now let us not add to this evil; let us not intensify it by this hasty and premature change in the size and shape of this Hall. I hope the amendment will not prevail. Mr. Platt. Mr. Chairman, while I agree with the remarks and the ideas of the gentleman from Indiana who has just taken his seat, I desire, in behalf of the Com- mittee on Public Buildings and Grounds, to say to this House they have not yet decided to recommend to the House any plan in regard to the enlargement of this Hall, or any arrangement to seat the additional number of members who will be present in the next Congress. I am myself, as one member of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds — and I believe I violate no rule of this House in stat- ing what my own action will be; I do not allude to the opinions of any other member of the committee — I am myself, I say, opposed to any enlargement of this Hall. I believe it is already large enough to accommodate not only three hundred, but if necessary more than that number of members of the House of Representatives. Members undoubtedly to-day have much difficulty in making themselves heard. I agree with the gentleman from Massachusetts that the acoustic properties of this Hall are as bad as they possibly can be, and that they do need some remedy. I hope some way will be found by which these defects may be remedied. I believe in a great measure the difficulty is now owing to the depression in the ceiling, which we see above us. I believe when a gentleman speaks here now his voice is carried up and broken by those indentations in the ceiling, causing the difficulty which every gentleman has in making himself heard. But, sir, I think the amendment should prevail, because it is carefully guarded. If the appropriation proposed to be made is made, not a dollar of it will be expended until the House decides upon the plan of the alteration. Until some decision is made by the House in regard to what shall be done in this matter, not one dollar can be taken out of the Treasury. With the Committee of the House on Public Buildings and Grounds, and with the special committee appointed by the House to take this subject into consideration, of which the gentleman from Massachusetts is chairman, I hope the amendment will be adopted so that all expenditure under it may be regulated by such action as may be desired. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Potter. I ask the gentleman from Indiana to withdraw his amendment, and I will renew it. 880 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Kerr. I withdraw the amendment. Mr. Potter. I renew it. Mr. Chairman, when the question arose during the last session as to what should be the number of Representatives under the new apportionment, I insisted it should be no greater than it is now, as the addition of the new members would render the House much less of a deliberate body than it is even at present. When I came to this House, Mr. Speaker, at the beginning of the Forty-First Congress, a number of the southern States were in whole or part unrepresented, and the number of gentlemen in the House was not much over if above two hundred. And then the order in the House and the facility of hearing and making yourself heard were noticeably greater than they have been since the addition of the gentle- men from the South who came in subsequently and after all the seats became full. For myself, in view of the present confusion, I look forward with dread to the con- dition of things which must exist when three hundred gentlemen will be assembled here, if the Hall for them is to be made as much larger than it is now as our numbers are to be increased. At every session there will come under discussion questions of the highest importance, becoming each year as the country increases in wealth and influence more important, requiring for theiy settlement, not passion, not excitement, but deliberate and careful judgment, and one must needs therefore look forward with apprehension to the result if we are to make a larger Hall than this in which to spread out this greater number of men. I did think, Mr. Chairman, when I first came here that this Hall should be carried out to the extremity of the southern wing that w r e might get in light and air from the south, but, since the exhausting apparatus has been introduced, I have found that the air, which was intolerable before, has been vastly improved. And I know of no other Hall, in which so large a number of people are assembled, in which the air is better on the whole than it is in this House of Representatives, so far at least as we who sit on the floor are concerned. And, if any change is made, I trust it will be made in a rearrangement within the limits of the present Hall. Members who sit in the wings of this Hall do not hear now, and because they cannot hear they become indifferent to what is going on, and increase this confusion, and this a better arrangement of seats would change. Gentlemen who are fitted to influence a deliberative body have little chance in this House, while those suited to a state of agitation have most control, and that certainly is not the state of things favorable to wise legislation, and one a better arrangement of seats would do much to remedy. Mr. Bird. I rise to a question of order. I have been unable to hear the gentleman from New York, [Mr. Potter;] and wish he would speak louder. [Laughter.] The Chairman. The committee will please come to order. Mr. Hawley, of Connecticut. Mr. Chairman, I partly agree and partly disagree with what has been said in the debate on this proposition. A Member. By whom. Mr. Hawley, of Connecticut. I do not know that there is any gentleman who has spoken with whom I agree precisely. But there is one article in my creed which I wish to emphasize. I do believe that this is the foulest Hall in which any delib- erative body ever undertook to sit day after day. And I wish here as a new member — for the old members may not feel it, having become so much accustomed to it — I wish, as a new member, to say that it is not creditable to an intelligent body of men to sit here month after month in this foul air. I have read much of the wonderful science and ingenuity displayed in ventilating this House. But I hesitate not to say, that never was anything more stupidly done, and I hold myself responsible to prove that statement before any tribunal. It is exceedingly discreditable to us. Let any man step out into the fresh air for ten minutes, and then comeback into this Hall, and if his lungs and nasal organs are as nature gave them he will be half sickened on coming in here again. The Extensions. 881 The proposition is to appropriate §40,000 for alterations of the Hall. I do not care what the particular alteration may be; but I insist that this shall he attended to in any plan which may be adopted, that there shall be better ventilation. I have myself serious doubts whether you will ever get the good air you ought to have unless you let the sun strike right in, as it should. I do not like to live in this con- servatory, this hot-house place. As to the size of the Hall, I think it is abundantly large. If you extend it to the south, then let the northern walls be brought south- ward, and the galleries decreased. I like to have the peojde brought here, and would make every possible provision for their accommodation. But our first object is to meet the wants of this House as a deliberative body, and, as regards that object, the Hall, I think, should not be enlarged. The Hall, so far as size is concerned, is large enough. Seats could be so arranged that a thousand men could sit and deliberate here. The House of Commons, in England, has been referred to, but there was a slight mistake in the reference which was made to that body. The members of the House of Commons number about six hundred and fifty; but there are seats for only four hundred. Their hall is too small; ours is abundantly large on the floor, and per- haps too large in the galleries. I want to close by emphasizing that I think we ought to get some one to attend to this work who knows enough to ventilate the Hall. Mr. Garfield, of Ohio. I ask unanimous consent that debate be closed on the pending paragraph. Mr. Bird. Since it seems to be admitted on all sides that, we are sitting in a very dangerous atmosphere, I hope the committee will rise and the House adjourn. I move that, the committee do now rise. The question was put on Mr. Bird’s motion; and on a division there were — ayes 62, noes 47. So the motion was agreed to. [House proceedings of Feb. 19, 1873 : Congressional Globe, 42 — 3, p. 1492.] MISCELLANEOUS APPROPRIATION BILL. The House, pursuant to order, resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, (Mr. Tyner in the chair,) and proceeded to the consider- ation of the bill (II. R. No. 3921 ) making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1874, and for other purposes. The Chairman. When the Committee of the Whole rose yesterday the following paragraph had been read: * * * And the gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Butler] had moved to amend by adding to the paragraph the following: For alteration, extension, and refitting of Hall of the House of Representatives, for the accommo- dation of the increased number of members, and the better ventilation and lighting thereof, to be expended under the supervision of the Architect of the Capitol Extension, $40,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary. Mr. Maynard. I move to amend the amendment by striking out the last word. I do so for the purpose of saying what is not exactly in harmony with some other things that have been said, that my experience in this Hall is most favorable to its character as a place for the assembling of a deliberative body. I think any one who sat in the old Hall and came from that to this will agree with me that between the two there is certainly no comparison. In the first place, as to the acoustic properties of the Hall, there are no echoes here, no reverberations. When every one in it except the speaker is silent, there is no difficulty in hearing an ordinary voice. We have never any difficulty in hearing theChaplain in his morning service. We had no difficulty in hearing the long report PI. Rep. 646 56 882 Documentary History of the Capitol . ■which was read yesterday from the Clerk’s desk. We have no difficulty in hearing the speaker when you can silence the noise of fifty gentlemen speaking as now in an ordinary tone of voice. And certainly I have never experienced any inconvenience either from excessive heat or excessive cold. It never occurs to me whether the room is light or dark; whether the air is gross or otherwise. As to these matters I am in a state of more complete unconsciousness than in any public building or room I have ever been in. Air. Hibbard. I rise to a point of order. It is impossible to hear the gentleman from Tennessee. The Chairman. The committee will come to order. Mr. Cox. I hope, as the reporters did not hear what the gentleman was saying, that he will say it over again. Mr. Maynard. I do not think it was my fault that the reporters did not hear, but, as I previously remarked, where fifty gentlemen are talking in an ordinary tone of voice in the Hall, and when there is talking also in the galleries, it can not be expected that one can be heard. It is not the fault of the Hall. It is the fault of ourselves, if there be a fault anywhere. I was about to observe that I have heard it proposed to take away the south side of the Hall, and to open it some forty feet to the outer wall. That will destroy all the reception-rooms we now have, the ladies’ reception-room, the Sergeant-at- Arms’ room, the Speaker’s room, and the other rooms on that side. I submit that now we have too limited an amount of ante-room in connection with the Hall. There is no place where a gentleman can retire with a constituent for conversation or for consul- tation. You have to talk with him as you best can in the lobbies about the building, or go out of doors and see him at a hotel or elsewhere. By this contemplated improvement you drive every lady out of the rooms now set apart for them. Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. Do you think that would be really a disadvantage? [Laughter. ] Mr. Maynard. I understand the spirit in which that question is asked, and I do not choose to respond to it in the same spirit. I choose to say that ladies of char- acter and of honorable purposes have occasion to confer with members of the House. Our own wives and daughters desire to consult us occasionally on important domes- tic matters. I am unwilling to expel them from this end of the Capitol and leave them without any place where they can communicate with us. I trust, therefore, that the Hall will be left substantially as it is, and that the seats will be so arranged, bringing the desks closer together, so as to accommodate not only two hundred and ninety members, but a very much larger, number than that, bringing them near enough together for the ordinary purposes of consultation. The old Hall accom- modated the same number of Representatives as this Hall does, and they performed their duty thoroughly, and there were great men there in those days. Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. I do not know what effect the size of the Hall could have upon the size of the Representatives, but I want to say that I do not propose to turn the ladies out of the Capitol by this improvement. There is now a'ladies’ reception room at one end of the ladies’ gallery, convenient for them and affording them opportunities for all their wants. Mr. Maynard. That would have to go too. Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. The great difficulty about this matter is that gentle- men will talk about what they know nothing about. That reception-room will not have to go at all. We have prepared a report on this subject, accompanied by a plan, but there has been no chance to bring it before the House. But this appropri- ation is necessary; even if you only put the seats closer together you need an appro- priation. Therefore I say we have to have an appropriation to do something. What that something shall be depends upon a plan hereafter to be submitted. Now, it is said that we want to make this Hall ever so much larger. Nobody wants to make it any larger than it now is, but only to move it nearer to the air and The Thxtensions. 883 the sun. There is no reason why the northern wall cannot be brought forward and the reception rooms put on that, side of the Hall, enlarging the cloak room so that members can move about them without being run over by one another. Mr. Holman. Do I understand the gentleman to say that this south wall is a tem- porary wall and not a wall on which the roof rests? Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. It has nothing to do with the roof. Mr. Holman. Then the northern wall can be brought forward. Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. It may all be arranged in that way after we get the money to do it with. The Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds propose to have a plan agreed to, but the difficulty is that the rules of the House do not allow any committee to report. * * * The House resumed its session in Committee of the Whole, and proceeded with the consideration of the miscellaneous appropriation bill. The question was upon the following amendment: For alteration, extension, and refitting of Hall of the House of Representatives, for tlie accommo dation of the increased number of members, and the better ventilation and lighting thereof, to be expended under the supervision of the Architect of the Capitol extension," $40,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary. Mr. Dawes. I would suggest to my colleague [Mr. Butler] that it will allay the apprehensions of gentlemen if he will strike out of his amendment the word “exten- sion,” for some may think that that would involve a change of the Hall. Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. I have no objection, and will modify my amendment as suggested. Mr. Townsend, of Pennsylvania. The gentleman from Tennessee [Mr. Maynard] is greatly in error when lie asserts that ordinary reading at the Clerk’s desk, or ordinary speaking by members, can be heard in all parts of this Hall. I wish he had a little of the experience of some of us whose Congressional homesteads are located on the outskirts of this Hall, and have been for a couple of sessions, as has been my case. He would then feel that any change or alteration for the better would be worth all that it would cost. I can say to him that it is with the greatest difficulty that we who sit in the outer rows can hear what is going on in this Hall on ordinary occasions. Yesterday afternoon, when the Clerk was reading the report of the Committee on the Credit Mobilier Investigation, when the House was perfectly still, it was with great difficulty that we could hear it. And when gentlemen on the opposite side of the House with the most orotund voices endeavor to address the Chair we have great difficulty in hearing what they say. This Hall is, indeed, very badly arranged in regard to its acoustic properties. Mr. Maynard. Cannot the gentleman hear the Chaplain in the morning? Mr. Townsend, of Pennsylvania. We can occasionally hear the Chaplain when we get here in time, but not always even then. As I was saying, this Hall is badly arranged in regard to its acoustic properties. The sound of our voices is lost up in the galleries; it is very much like whistling in an empty barn. The reason we hear the Chaplain in the morning is that the front seats are to a great extent unoccupied, and there is so much quiet in the House. I therefore think it would be a matter of great importance for us to adopt this amendment. We will have in the next House, some two hundred and ninety-two members and ten Delegates. With that number in the House, and with the hum attendant upon their presence, it will be absolutely impossible for members on the outside rows of desks to hear what is going on. And I would to-day give a valuable consideration to any gentleman who would change seats with me who has a seat within three ranges of the Clerk’s desk. One half of the discussion is lost to us here unless we pay the strictest attention. I therefore hope the amendment of the gentleman from Massachusetts will be adopted. The question was then taken upon the amendment as modified; and upon a divi- sion there were — ayes 44, noes 36; no quorum voting. 884 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Hibbard. I ask for tellers. The Chairman. No quorum having voted, the Chair will appoint as tellers the gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Butler,] and the gentleman from New Hamp- shire, [Mr. Hibbard.] Mr. Garfield, of Ohio. I ask the gentleman from New Hampshire not to insist upon a further count, but to let the amendment be adopted, and we can have a vote upon it in the House. Mr. Hibbard. I decline to withdraw my call for a further count. The committee again divided; and the tellers reported that there were — ayes 81, noes 41. So the amendment was adopted. Mr. Garfield, of Ohio. 1 move to further amend the paragraph by adding the words “this appropriation to be available from and after the passage of this act.” I move that amendment so that the Architect of the Capitol may have the summer months in which to do the work. The amendment was agreed to. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and seventy-four, and for other purposes,’’ approved Mar. 3, 1873. (Stats, at Large, v. 17, 518, 519.)] Capitol Extension . — For continuing the work on the Capitol, and for general care and repairs thereof, sixty-five thousand dollars. For extending the inlets to the Senate Chamber for fresh air to the lower terrace near the western park, ten thousand dollars. For constructing coal-vaults within the open space at the east front of the Capitol, between the wings and the old building, sixteen thousand dollars; and for connect- ing the Capitol by telegraph, to be used solely for public business, with all the Departments of Government and the Government Printing Office in the city of Washington, eight thousand dollars, or so much. thereof as may be necessary, to be expended under the direction of the officer in charge of the public buildings and grounds: Provided, That the immediate connection of the wires with any of the pub- lic buildings shall be made underground, or in such manner as not to injure the appearance of the Capitol or other public buildings. For alteration and refitting the Hall of the House of Representatives for the accom- modation of the increased number of members and the better ventilation and light- ing thereof, to be expended under the supervision of the Architect of the Capitol extension, according to a plan to be established by resolution of the House, forty thousand dollars; and the amounts hereby appropriated for work on and around the Capitol shall be available from the passage of this act. [From the “Act making appropriations to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the service of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and seventy-three, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1873. (Stats, at Large, v. 17, 538.)] For an elevator in the Senate wing of the Capitol, ten thousand dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, to be expended under the direction of the Architect of the Capitol extension. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and seventy-five, and for other purposes,” approved June 23, 1874. (Stats, at Large, v. 18, 209, 214.)] To enable the Joint Committee on the Library to purchase such works of art for ornamenting the Capitol as may be ordered and approved, ten thousand dollars. For work on the Capitol, and for general care and repairs thereof, fifty thousand dollars. The Extensions. 885 [House proceedings of February 26, 1875: Congressional Record, 43 — 2, p. 1805.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1876 — The Clerk read the following paragraph : For the purchase of a noiseless steam-pump for the heating and ventilating department of the House of Representatives, 11,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary. Mr. Hawley, of Connecticut. I move to strike out that, paragraph, and I do it for the purpose of making an inquiry. I have an indistinct recollection that toward the close of the last session a resolution was adopted directing certain inquiries to be made concerning the lighting and ventilating of this Hall. I desire to know if that resolu- tion passed. I certainly hope some action may be taken in that direction. I. venture to say, deliberately, that this Hall is the most conspicuous failure in the United States; and so far as my limited observation extends, in any country, as to ventilation, light- ing, comfort, and health. I invite gentlemen to go into any manufacturing estab- lishment in my State where a large number of men are employed, and I affirm that they can find no room containing so many workmen, confined so long a time, which is not better lighted and better ventilated than this flail. Through the registers, running just behind the feet of every member, come streams of air whose tempera- ture is sometimes as low as fifty, or sixty, or certainly from five to fifteen degrees lower than the average temperature in which our heads move, which the various ther- mometers show to range from 72 to 80, especially when the fierce heat of the gas- lights beats down on our heads. The rapid change of the volume makes even hot air feel cold. All the light we get in the day-time comes perpendicularly through ground- glass skylights, throwing strong lights and the deepest shadows, that strain all the nerves of the eye in the attempt to distinguish faces at a short distance. We get no direct supplies of light or air. Every principle of wholesome lighting and heating is defied, and so we go on year after year. I have no doubt that the untimely deaths of many honorable members have been due to our defiance here of all the laws of health. Mr. Maynakd. I oppose the amendment for the purpose of saying that I have been in this Hall from the time when the House first moved into it from the other Hall, and my experience is the reverse of that of the gentleman from Connecticut. It is to my mind the most successful room ever occupied for legislative purposes as regards heat or light or air, making it suitable for public business. I have never been con- scious while occupying this room of either heat or cold, light or darkness, excess or absence of ventilation; and I take this opportunity to have on record my estimate of the character of this room, in reply to general criticisms that from time to time have been made upon it. Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. I desire to move to strike out the last word, and I desire to do it because my experience has been so exactly the reverse of that of the gentleman from Tennessee. The Chairman. There is an amendment pending. Mr. Hawley, of Connecticut. I withdraw the amendment. Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. I renew it. I desire to say that my experience has been precisely opposite to that of the gentleman from Tennessee. The construction of this Hall is the worst fitted for the purposes for which it is used, in my judgment, of any place on the face of the earth. It is said that the court of Areopagus sat in darkness in order that they might not be influenced by the gestures of the speaker. We have improved on that. We have built a place where we can see the orator and his gesture, but as a rule cannot hear a word he says. Mr. Garfield. That was the theory of Roscius. Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. Now, I have as reasonably strong lungs as anybody in this Hall, and I cannot be heard this minute distinctly by more than one third in it, and this fact gives this body an unfair and unjust reputation. We are called a very disorderly body, and it is said that we do not attend to the current business; 886 Documentary History of the Capitoi. that members will not attend to what is going on. These cross-bars here above us catch the waves of sound and prevent the voice from being heard, and then these immense galleries, with their stairways, tend in the very same direction. Then we get none of the air of heaven in here unless it is pumped up through tubes that are not kept clean, but are reeking with all the filth that falls into them. We get none of the light of heaven except as it comes to us through the glass above. Mr. Maynard. At least there is no reverberation in this Hall; no echo. Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. Pardon me; I know there is no reverberation in the Hall, . because you cannot get any sound through it; that is what I am complaining of. You cannot get a reverberation until you get sound to traverse space and come back. Sir, reverberation helps the voice. I know of no place like this in the world excepting one. I undertook to make a speech in the court-house of a town in Indiana, a room say eighty feet by sixty, and although I may say I have voice enough to reach five thousand people in the open air, yet I could not be heard in that court-house for the reason that the architect had run large pine-board arches of the Gothic pattern clear across it, which stopped the voice and prevented it being heard. Sir, this Hall will never be fit for legislative purposes, in my judgment, until it is carried back upon each side so as to allow the light and air of heaven to enter into it. Mr. Maynard. Did the gentleman ever listen to speaking in the old Hall? Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. I never did; but because that was bad, that is no reason why this should be made worse. I call the attention of every man here to this matter. It is of no consequence to me in the future and has not been very much in the past. Men who have been accustomed to the noisome air of crowded court- houses all their lives may be able to live here; but men who have not been so accus- tomed cannot live here. A larger percentage of the members of this House of Representatives die than of any other body of men. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Platt of Virginia. I differ with the gentleman. Mr. Garfield. I hope we will have a vote now. Mr. Platt, of Virginia. I hope the gentleman, who has occupned as much time as anybody in this House, will not object to my occupying a little, when it is so seldom I take any time for speaking here. Mr. Garfield. A r ery well; I will give the gentleman my time. Mr. Platt, of Virginia. I know it is very much the fashion of gentlemen occupy- ing this Hall to decry its capacity for the purpose for which it was designed. I do not agree with the estimation held of it by the gentleman who has just addressed us. On the contrary, every gentleman who occupies a seat here can satisfy himself that so far from this Hall being defective as a place to be heard in, there is no better hall anywhere, no place in the Union, I undertake to say, where if the people occupying the Hall will maintain silence the speaker can be better heard. Mr. Clements. I ask the gentleman to speak a little louder so that I can hear him. Mr. Platt, of Virginia. I will explain why the gentleman cannot hear me and why there is difficulty in hearing other gentlemen here. It is because there are two hun- dred men on this floor talking among themselves at the same time the Speaker is addressing the House. We all know that in their conversation members are in the habit of speaking in their ordinary tones of voice and take very little pains to lower it. Then we have the lobbies here filled with gentlemen who are also talking in their ordinary tones of voice; and the galleries are filled with ladies and gentlemen talking in their ordinary tones of voice. There is not a church or public hall in the United States where, if while the clergyman or orator was attempting to address the audience the audience should do precisely what is being done every moment in this House, he would be heard any better than members are heard here. It is very easy to ascer- tain the correctness of what I say. I undertake to say that at this moment there is The Extensions. 887 no gentleman entitled to a seat on this floor who cannot he heard in every portion of this Hall and in the galleries besides if those here will maintain the silence that is maintained in churches and lecture-rooms. Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. Allow me to make a single observation. Mr. Platt, of Virginia. I have no time to be interrupted, particularly by the gen- tleman from Massachusetts. Mr. Butler, of Massachusetts. We are very still now. Mr. Platt, of Virginia. I want to ask every gentleman within the sound of my voice if we have any difficulty in hearing the Chaplain in the morning when he opens the exercises here? Mr. Merriam. Because few members are in their seats so early, and because even Congressmen bend their heads in silence when reminded that they are in the pres- ence of their Maker. Mr. Platt, of Virginia. We hear him in every part of the Hall. Why? Because we show him the respect of maintaining silence and not indulging in conversation on the floor of the House. I am unwilling that these complaints against this Hall shall be made here, as they have been made, without having the real difficulty called to the attention of the House. In regard to the pending paragraph which it is proposed to strike out, I hope it will be stricken out, and that not one dollar will be expended by Congress for that purpose until some correct plan for heating and ventilating this Hall as it should be heated and ventilated shall be devised. I wish I had time to tell members about the defective construction of the heating and ventilating contrivances which are under our feet, and how almost impossible it is that any effective system can be adopted by following their present plan of construction. My objection to this para- graph is that this subject has no't been considered by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds nor by any other committee that I know of. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Coburn. I move an amendment to the amendment for the purpose of saying a word or two about this Hall. It has been extolled to-day lavishly by some gentle- men, and I cannot agree with them in any particular. To me it is the most objec- tionable place I ever saw for a body of men to assemble in. The air comes in at the wrong place and in the wrong direction. When the weather is warm the sun shines down through the top of the Hall on the heads of members, and it is a source of sickness and annoyance from the beginning to the end of the heated term. This Hall should have been constructed with the doors and windows opening to the outer air, and the light should come in, as in ordinary rooms, from the sides of the build- ing. I can imagine nothing more similar to the plan of this Hall, so far as heating and lighting are concerned, than hot-houses which are used for sprouting cabbage- plants, &c. The glass top of this Hall has about the same effect on the heads of several gentlemen that the glass tops of hot-houses have upon the plants in them. I would vote to-day for an appropriation to erect a “wigwam” or some other inclosure in which Congressmen might assemble and where they would have an ordinarily decent place to do the public business. If anything could reconcile me to the con- tinuance of this Hall with its present arrangements as the place of meeting of the House of Representatives, it is the fact that it will be occupied in the next Congress by a large democratic majority. If 1 could be so malicious as to desire the sickness or possible death of my political opponents, that might be a reason for voting against an appropriation to provide some other place for the meeting of the House of Representa- tives or some improvement of this Hall. But I do say that much as I am opposed politically to my democratic antagonists and unwilling as I am that they should continue in power, I will vote the very largest possible appropriation to build a new hall or to remodel the present one or to erect a “wigwam,” so that our democratic friends may live in some comfort during the short time that they will be in power. [Here the hammer fell.] 888 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Eldredge. I rise to oppose the amendment. As I am about to retire from Congress, I want to bear my testimony against this Hall as a very unsuitable place for occupancy by the House of Representatives. I agree with every one of the gen- tlemen who have criticised it as an unfit place for the assemblage of a public body. I can account in no way for the remarks of the gentleman from Tennessee [Mr. May- nard] except by taking his words literally, as I understood them — that he is insensible to heat and insensible to cold, insensible to light and insensible to darkness. Only a reason of that kind can account for the fact that he has not found out before this time that this Hall is an unfit place for the use of the House of Representatives. Why, sir, go around this Hall to-day and you will find nine out of ten of the mem- bers suffering with colds, sore throats — threatened perhaps with pneumonia or inflam- mation of the lungs. There is scarcely a well man with whom I have spoken for the last ten or twenty days on this floor. During the time when we were here the whole of two nights “filibustering,” as it was called, upon the civil-rights bill, almost every man in this Hall became more or less sick. I at one time sent for the Doorkeeper, telling him that everybody in this part of the Hall was in a chill. He went to the thermometer and came back telling me that it indicated seventy-five degrees. I replied, “I am suffering with a chill; this Hall is cold.” He then examined some of the flues or other arrangements under the seats here, and found that cold air from out of doors was actually blowing in upon the feet of all of us here. Mr. Maynard. Will the gentleman allow me to call his attention to the fact how seldom it is that we hear a cough in this House as compared with other congrega- tions of people? Mr. Eldridge. Why it is very seldom that a voice is heard. The best voice in this House cannot be heard from one end of the Hall to the other, even when the Hall is perfectly still. I undertake to say that there is not a man here who can be heard throughout the entire length and breadth of this Hall even when profound stillness otherwise prevails; for then the reverberation tends to drown the voice. If anyone can be heard throughout this Hall I can be, when my voice is in good condition; and having inquired how far my voice could be heard, I have learned that unless the per- sons listening are facing you, they cannot hear at all what is said in this Hall. There is but one word further I want to say. The sunlight of heaven does not shine here; and that is not a fit place for human beings where God’s sunlight cannot shine upon them. The Chairman. Debate upon the amendment to the amendment is exhausted. Both amendments were withdrawn. [House proceedings of Feb. 20, 1875: Congressional Record, 43—2, p. 1811.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1876 — The Clerk read the following: To enable the Joint Committee on the Library to purchase such works of art for ornamenting Capitol as may be ordered and ax>proved, §15,000. * * * Mr. Cox. I move to amend by adding to the pending paragraph the following: Provided , That there be constituted a council upon matters of art, to be named by the Joint Com- mittee on the Library, consisting of five persons accomplished in such matters, to whom shall be sub- mitted, in connection with said committee, all designs and proposals for paintings or statues ordered by Congress, a majority of whom, in connection with said committee, shall decide as well upon the artist to be selected as upon the subject-matter of such designs or proposals, except when otherwise expressed in the law authorizing the same; and that no compensation be attached to such service, except the ordinary expenses of going to and from Washington, to be allowed by the Committee on the Library, according to such rules as they may prescribe. Mr. Maynard. I must make a point, of order on this amendment. Mr. Frye. It is new legislation. The Extensions. 889 Mr. Maynard. I think that Congress is perfectly competent to manage affairs in this Capitol. The Chairman. The Chair sustains the point of order. Mr. Cox. I move then to amend the pending paragraph by striking out .jil5,000 and inserting $10,000. I will say that the amendment which I just offered was not intended of course as any reproach upon the distinguished gentlemen of the Com- mittee on the Library, who have charge of the decoration of the Capitol. That amendment is substantially the same as a bill which I introduced last session when we were voting large amounts of money for statuary, &c. The principal difference is that my bill named live artists; and there, perhaps, was my mistake; otherwise the measure might have carried. It was criticised everywhere on the ground mainly that I named artists for this commission. If I had named perhaps such men as Mr. Perkins, of Boston, men of leisure and taste, men not engaged practically as painters or sculptors, I think it very likely that my bill would have received more favorable consideration. But, Mr. Chairman, no one can visit this Capitol without seeing the need of some improvement in respect to its decoration. Unless you want to have here some day a bonfire of all the elements of art which are incongruously heaped together in this Capitol, we had better provide, and that soon, a commission to determine these matters according to the best canons of artistic criticism. All true friends of art, all men of good taste, ought to welcome a measure of the kind I have proposed. My bill of last session was received with approval by the newspapers in Boston, in Cin- cinnati, in New York, by various art journals — by almost everybody except members of Congress. Now, sir, 1 do not know exactly where we can find our best artists; but I will send to the Clerk’s desk to be read an extract from a western paper. There may be lying in abeyance somewhere in the West some artist like the one described in this paragraph, who may be selected some day to do honor to this Capitol by such a piece of work as is suggested. The article which I ask the Clerk to read is the only co - mentary I have to make on the decoration of this Capitol. The Clerk read as follows: A father procured on outfit of oil-paints and brushes for his eight-year-old son the other day, the lad having developed a talent for drawing. Little was seen of the hoy for two or three days, and then he took his father and mother by the hand»and led them into the parlor, and triumphantly pointed to the proof of his artistic skill. The gilt paper on the walls formed a fine groundwork for him, and he had painted a horse over one door, a lion over another, a bird over the third, and at intervals along the wall he had brought out fighting-dogs, ships, fire-engines, Indians in full dress, and bears chasing boys. He had put a new border on the bay-window curtains, striped the legs of the piano, and had proceeded to touch up and improve certain chromos and oil-paintings hanging on the walls. Father and mother gazed around, and the young artist anxiously waited for them to pat him on the head and say they were proud of such a son. The father placed the son’s ear between his thumb and finger, and led him through several rooms to the woodshed, and what followed may be inferred from a remark by the boy, and overheard by a pedestrian: “ O, father, let up on me, and I'll never be an artist any more, unless I am selected by Congress to paint the father of my country for the Capitol. Mr. Cox. 1 withdraw my amendment. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and seventy-six, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1875. (Stats, at Large, v. 18, 376, 384, 393. )] To enable the Joint Committee on the Library to purchase such works of art for ornamenting the Capitol as may be ordered and approved, fifteen thousand dollars. CAPITOL EXTENSION. For work on the Capitol, and for general care and repairs thereof, fifty thousand dollars. For new chandeliers for the corridors and passages of the House of Representatives, to correspond with those of the Senate, five thousand dollars. 890 Documentary History of the Capitol. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and seventy-seven, and for other purposes,” approved July 31, 1876. (Stats, at Large, v. 19, 115.)] Capitol extension: For work on the Capitol, and for general care and repair thereof, sixty thousand dollars. For taking up and renewing the floor of the Senate Chamber and rearranging the flues for more equal distribution of air through the registers of the floor, five thou- sand dollars. For an additional steam boiler for the heating apparatus in the Senate wing of the Capitol, and for repairs to gas pipes in the Capitol building, eight thousand dollars. (House proceedings of Feb. 21, 1877: Congressional Record, 44 — 2, p. 1778.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1878 — The Clerk resumed the reading of the bill, and read as follows: Capitol extension: For work on the Capitol and for general care and repair thereof, 140,000. Mr. Piper. I move to amend that paragraph by striking out $40,000 and inserting in lieu thereof $30,000. As the chairman of the Committe on Appropriations is also chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, I would like to know what extension is being constructed on this Capitol. This appropriation is “ for extension of the Capitol and for other purposes.” Now the gentleman is so ivell informed about the details of every Department of this Government that it gives me great pleasure to hear any explanation by him as to the appropriation of the people’s money to the various purposes of the bills which he reports to the House. Mr. Holman. The estimate for this purpose was $60,000. We have reduced the amount $20,000 and I hardly think the amount can be safely reduced below that. Mr. Atkins. This is for taking care of the entire building, and not to make addi- tions to it. Mr. Piper. The words used are ‘ ‘ Capitol extension. ’ ’ Mr. /Vtkins. Last year we appropriated $60,000 for this purpose and this year we propose to appropriate $40,000; that is all. Mr. Holman. I call for a vote. Mr. Piper. I withdraw the amendment. Mr. Leavenworth. 1 offer the following amendment, to come in at that point. After the word “thereof” insert the following: And for putting an elevator in the south wing of the Capitol, under the supervision of the Architect of the Capitol, $50,000. And strike out $40,000. Mr. Holman. I think that is new work entirely, and that the amendment is sub- ject to the point of order, that this is an appropriation not authorized by law. The Chairman. The Chair sustains the point of order. * * * Mr. Harrison. I offer the following amendment: For the improvement of the heating and ventilating apparatus of the House of Representatives, to he expended by the Architect of the Capitol, the sum of $33,000; and that the board of United States officers convened by request of the Committee on Public-Buildings and Grounds, to advise with it on the subject, be requested to advise the Architect of the Capitol in the premises; and that hereafter the subject of ventilating and heating the House of Representatives be placed under the direction of the Architect of the Capitol. This morning the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds by a unanimous vote directed me to draft a bill and prepare a report on the subject of the ventilation of this Hall. I will bring that bill before the House as soon as I can get an oppor- tunity to do so. For the last twelve months a subcommittee of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds has had under careful consideration the subject of ventilating this The Extensions. 891 Hall. We have had in consultation with us a board of United States officers con- sisting of Professor Henry, of the Smithsonian Institution; Mr. Clark, the Architect of the Capitol; Mr. Shuman, in the employ of the Architect of the Treasury Depart- ment; Dr. Billings, of the United States Army, and one or two others. We have had before us a large number of experts from the different cities of the United States who have been seeking to have their plans adopted. During the last summer Dr. Billings visited Europe, where he examined the heat- ing and ventilating apparatus of the House of Commons and the House of Lords in London, of the opera-house in Vienna, the best ventilated building in the world, and also other buildings. After very careful examination and study of this subject, this board within the last few days have submitted to us their report. That report this morning was adopted by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, and as I said, I have been directed by that committee to draft a bill to carry it into effect. As the bill will require some little change in the law, I will bring it to the attention of the House as soon as I can do so. In the meantime, in order to have an appro- priation for the purpose, I have moved this amendment. I have been asked to state what is the plan. It is utterly impossible in a five- minute speech to properly explain it. It does not change the present system of ventilation in this Hall. We have found that it would be utterly impossible, without an expense of from $100,000 to $200,000, to change the present system of ventilation. But by perfecting the present upward system of ventilation, by removing from beneath the floor of this Hall about a million of brick which clog up the flues, by bringing the stack of heating apparatus or radiators from far off in the corner of the building by the room of the Committee on Naval Affairs and placing it under this Hall, near the center, by changing the ventilators here and giving each member the direct control of the ventilation of his own seat, it is believed that we will be able to secure a thorough ventilation of the House. I have the plan in the committee- room, not knowing that the House would go into Committee of the Whole on this bill. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Harrison. Is my time up? The Chairman. The five minutes time of the gentleman has expired. Mr. Conger. Mr. Chairman Mr. Landers, of Indiana. I desire to ask the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Har- rison] one question. Mr. Harrison. Will the gentleman yield to me to finish my statement? Mr. Landers, of Indiana. After my question. The gentleman says it is not pro- posed— — Mr. Conger. I rose to oppose the amendment. Mr. Landers, of Indiana. That is my object. The Chairman. The Chair understood the gentleman to rise to ask a question after the time of the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Harrison] had expired. Mr. Landers, of Indiana. I rose also to oppose the proposition. I have a right to yield for my question to be answered, have I not, provided it comes out of my time? The Chairman. The Chair had not recognized the gentleman. Mr. Landers, of Indiana. I had hoped that the Chair would recognize me. Mr. Conger. The gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Harrison] sometime since very kindly offered to yield his time to me, because he thought I had superior knowledge of a certain subject. I may say that my friend from Illinois, something like the sub- ject which he is discussing here, goes back and forth from one subject to another as the wind, which blows where it listeth and we know not whence it cometh or whither it goeth. [Laughter.] So it is with my friend’s discussion on this subject. The gentleman has for two years by direction of the House been charged with this windy subject. The House knew instinctively who could best take charge of such a subject as that [laughter] and they selected my friend. He has been struggling all 892 Documentary History of the Capitol. that time to obtain some knowledge, some information by which he could enlighten the House as to the means of ventilating this Hall better than it has been heretofc re ventilated. I know he is better prepared than I am to discuss that subject; and with all the grace possible I yield to him the remainder of my time. Mr. Harrison. I thank the gentleman. I think there is no man in this House, who needs fresh air more than he. [Laughter. ] Sir, in olden time, when the gen- tleman from Michigan was a baby, he had a sweet smile upon his face. When he came here it was wreathed in smiles; it was lovely to look upon. [Great laughter.] But now see the effect of bad ventilation upon him; always sour, always vinegary. Mr. Chairman, this is a very serious subject. [Renewed laughter.] I think the House is sufficiently prepared to vote on my amendment. It is utterly impossible, as I have already said, in a few moments and without the plan before me, to explain it. If gentlemen wish an explanation, I will endeavor to give it, if I can be allowed the time. [Cries of ‘ ‘ Go on !” “ Go on !” ] Then I have got consent and I will take advantage of it. [Laughter.] Mr. Conger and many others. “Goon!” “Goon!” Mr. Harrison. I ask that the report of this committee of officers be read. The Clerk read as follows: Second report of the hoard of Unites States officers convened by request of the subcommittee on public buildings and grounds to advise with regard to the ventilation of the House of Representatives. Washington, D. C., February 2, 1877. The board find that the measures which have been taken to give an increased sup- ply of fresh air to the Hall of the House of Representatives, in accordance with its recommendation in its previous report, have been followed by good results, and that the test of actual experience, during both cold and warm weather, has shown that the Hall can be satisfactorily heated and ventilated with the system now employed, namely, that of upward currents, and that this can be done without causing discom- fort to the occupants. The recommendations of the board heretofore presented were intended to meet the great want existing, namely, that of an increased supply of air, without the produc- tion of unpleasant draughts, and also to remove or mitigate certain sources of impurity which were found to exist in the basement of the building. These recommendations have been only in part carried out, owing to the want of funds, for, although the sum estimated for by the board, namely, $8,000, was duly appropriated from the contingent fund of the House at the close of the last session, yet it appears that this appropriation was only partially available, since the con- tingent fund was exhausted. For this reason it has been found impossible by the Architect to provide the means for that increased supply of fresh air to the galleries which the board consider as necessary. The board has collected information as to the practical results obtained in large halls of assembly in this country and in Europe by the systems of heating and ven- tilation adopted, and, from these as well as from the observations and experience of its members, it has arrived at certain conclusions as to what should be done looking to the permanent arrangement for heating and ventilating the south wing of the Capitol, which may be stated as follows: 1. That it is not desirable to change the present or upward system of ventilation of the Hall of the House of Representatives for any system of so-called downward ventilation, and it is not possible to apply any so-called natural system of ventilation, by means of windows and openings in the ceiling and walls only, to a large assembly Hall like this. 2. That while the quantity of fresh air which can now be supplied to members on the floor without causing unpleasant draught is probably sufficient under ordinary circumstances, it is desirable that there should be means to increase it when needed. The Extensions. 893 3. That the supply of air to the galleries should be largely increased, and that there should be means provided for furnishing cooler air to the galleries than is supplied to the floor of the hall. 4. That the system of brick flues beneath the floor of the House should be removed and galvanized iron flues substituted so far as necessary. 5. That a duct should be constructed to bring the fresh air required for the use of the House to the injecting fans from a point on the lower terrace and through an ornamental shaft about thirty feet high. 6. That an attempt should be made to regulate the amount of moisture in the air supplied and to cool the air in warm weather. 7. That for this purpose, as well as for other reasons, the course of the present fresh-air duct should be changed, and the heating-coils removed from their inacces- sible and inconvenient position, and that the point for admission of fresh air beneath the floor shall be central instead of in one corner, as at present. 8. That additional means of ventilation should be supplied for the upper lobbies. 9. That an attempt should be made to so arrange a system of outlets for foul air in the roof that the wind can only produce an increased flow of air. If this can be done successfully the exhaust fans now in use will become available for ventilation of the basement and lobbies. 10. That means of communication by a system of electric signals be provided between the floor of the House and the engine-room. 11 That the whole matter of heating and ventilation of the south wing of the Cap- itol should be placed under the control of one person who is to be held responsible for their proper working. Under the present system, or rather want of system, the board do not believe that any apparatus can be made to work satisfactorily. If it is desired that the board shall continue to interest itself in the heating and ventilating of the House, and in the devising of the best means of carrying out its recommendations, it is extremely desirable that the person who is to have charge of the apparatus when completed should be in some way associated with the board, not only to carry out the experiments and observations which it may deem necessary, but to become familiar with what is to be done, and with the ajiparatus and machin- ery decided to be best adapted for doing it. 12. Plans have been prepared by the Architect of the Capitol for the alterations recommended, and these are herewith submitted. The total cost of making these changes, and of putting the heating apparatus in good order, including the purchase of 20,000 feet of new steam-pipes, is estimated at $33,000. All of which is respectfully submitted. Joseph Henry, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, President of the Board. Thos. L. Casey, Lieutenant- Colonel, Corps of Engineers, Member of the Board. Edward Clark, Architect United States Capitol, Member of the Board. F. Schumann, Civil Engineer, Member of the Board. John S. Billings, Surgeon, United States Army, Secretary of the Board. Mr. Harrison. I believe, Mr. Chairman, I had unanimous consent to finish my remarks on this subject. Mr. Holman. I have no objection, of course, to the gentleman proceeding; but I believe the five-minute rule cannot be waived in Committee of the Whole. Mr. Wilson, of Iowa, obtained the floor, and yielded to Mr. Harrison. Mr. Harrison. Mr. Chairman, the plan as suggested here is to get fresh air from a spot out on the terrace, removed from the walls of the Capitol. The cold air, instead of being driven by the fans to the far corner of this building, will be carried to the 894 Documentary History of the Capitol. stacks which will be placed immediately under the Hall and very near to the center. Then the flues under this floor, which are now of brick, and in which, as I have stated before, nearly a million of brick are placed, will be removed. At present this brick-work absorbs the heat; and when it has become heated it is utterly impos- sible for the engineer to cool it in less than about half an hour. On the other hand, when these bricks become cold, it is utterly impossible to heat them in less than a half an hour. These brick flues will therefore be removed, and will be replaced by flues of galvanized iron. Around this Hall will be a system of ventilation through which the heated air will come. Under each desk will be a ventilator under the control of each member, so that he can prevent draughts from coming directly upon himself, while he cannot prevent the general influx of air around the room. In addition to this, these officers recommend the attachment of what is called a cold-air duct to one of the engines, by which, when the House becomes too much heated, cold air can be rapidly thrown in and mixed with the warm air, so that the air may come into the Hall thoroughly tempered. We believe that this system will be a success, though of course to a certain extent it will be an experiment. We have had before our committee men from nearly every city of the Union, wishing to get a contract for perfecting the ventilation of this House. The estimates submitted are in no instance less than $85,000. We sub- mitted all these plans to this committee of experts; we consulted with them; and they have come to the conclusion that the plan they propose to adopt is a feasible, practicable, and economical one. Mr. White. I understood the gentleman to say that it was necessary to have the brick-work underneath removed in order to perfect our system of ventilation. I want to ask the gentleman whether he does not think that the tobacco-juice and all other sorts of filth now going into these flues ought to be removed? Mr. Harrison. The whole substructure under here will be removed and cleaned; and then the system will be so changed that refuse tobacco and other impurities cannot be thrown into the flues. Mr. White. I wish to inquire further whether it is possible to keep out these impurities under the present system of ventilation, which undertakes to carry the foul air upward. Mr. Harrison. It is thoroughly practicable; at least we believe it is so, or we would not recommend this plan. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. White. Mr. Chairman, I have a profound respect for the opinions of the gen- tleman from Illinois, [Mr. Harrison.] I always bow my head with deference to gentlemen who offer theories in regard to ventilation. But after two years of expe- rience in regard to this matter — experience in the very midst of the operation of this system— I think that my experience is worth more than the theories of these gentle- men who propose to ventilate this House. And I do not offer my experience alone. I state what every gentleman on this floor must know to be a fact, that around this Hall on the outside are openings for the reception of the pure air which is to be forced into this Hall by driving-fans. This pure air comes over refuse tobacco, cigar-stumps, apple-peelings, and all sorts of filth which the boys from the street see fit to throw into those holes. After the air has been heated it reaches this Hall through these open- ings here in the floor, and all the foul particles that can be evaporated by this heated air are evaporated, and in this condition the air comes in here for us to breathe. Can anything be more destructive to life or health or comfort than to be confined in such an impure atmosphere? Again, it is a well-known fact that the air which we breathe out of our lungs is much heavier than the natural air. By the exhaust fans which draw the air upward we undertake to carry off the carbonic-acid gas through the ceiling, to take it out at The Extensions. 895 the roof of the house instead of at the bottom of it. To accomplish this unnatural and life-destructive work we are asked to appropriate the sum of $33,000. Now, as I understand the gentleman, he does not propose a new system of ventila- tion. He proposes to continue the old system; and what is it? It is simply to bring this air to us from the outside through the old channels, with the exception that the little holes at the rear of our seats shall be closed. There is to be a register under each desk, which 'each member may open or shut at pleasure; but if it be the pleasure of two-thirds of the members to close those registers, then the persons in the galleries will have to endure the draught where air is forced in upon them. Mr. Harrison. If the gentleman had listened to the report, he would have learned that the gallery will have a system of heating for itself. There are to be flues car- ried into the gallery. Mr. White. Notwithstanding the remark of the gentleman, it is nevertheless the truth that these officers propose to get the pure air into this House by bringing it over the same impurities over which it has always been brought in. They propose to con- tinue the same old plan of pumping the foul air out of this House through the roof, and as it goes upward we naturally get bad air to breathe. We have never yet had pure air in this Hall. You can taste it the minute you get inside the corridors around this Hall. We not only get no natural air, but we get no natural light in this Hall. I was about to offer an amendment to improve the ventilation of the House at the moment the gentleman from Illinois rose. But if it is proposed to put it into the same old system, to make the same old system more perfect, we will only get more of the bad air we have been getting all along, and I will oppose the amendment and I think the House should vote it down. I ask the amendment be again read. The amendment was again read. • Mr. Holman. Mr. Chairman, it seemed to me the ventilation of this Hall since the improvements at the last session was quite complete, and we could scarcely hope, even by large appropriations of money, to materially improve that ventilation. Gen- tlemen have observed this: when the Hall is crowded with people, galleries and all, that the atmosphere seems to become oppressive. But this subject of ventilation is one of such interest that the Committee on the Public Buildings and Grounds, with great unanimity- — with entire unanimity with the exception of my views — have favored this appropriation of $33,000. Now, inasmuch as we have appropriated a larger sum than is imperatively required for the improvement of the public grounds, I ask to insert that provision in the bill, if the House shall determine to adopt it, in another form. The bill now provides for the improvement of the Capitol grounds and for paving the roadway and footwalks in the Capitol grounds, $100,000. I move to add to that, “provided, however, that a sum not exceeding $33,000 of this appro- priation he used for the improvement,” &c., then using the language of the amend- ment moved by the gentleman from Illinois. I have consulted with such members of the Committee on Appropriations upon the floor, and believe they acquiesce in this proposition. Gentlemen will discover when we come to add up the items making up this appropriation bill it will be found to involve a very large sum of money in the aggregate, and therefore it seems to me no appropriation should be made in this instance increasing those appropriations beyond what is imperatively required. We are satisfied this $33,000 can be deducted from that $100,000 without any embarrassment of the public interest, or without necessarily postponing the completion of the public grounds. Mr. White. I now ask that the amendment be read as it will stand if amended by the gentleman from Indiana. The amendment was again read. Mr. Harrison. Mr. Chairman, I am willing to accept that as a modification of my own proposition. 896 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Harris, of Massachusetts. Mr. Chairman, I desire very much to vote for an appropriation for the ventilation and heating of this Hall, but I shall never vote a dollar for a system of ventilation which is absurdly wrong-side up. It has been demonstrated, I believe, in some portions of the country, that heated air drawn into the top of a large hall, and the foul air thrown out by pumps at the bottom, give free ventilation. It is known to every gentleman, I suppose, that all the air which we breathe forth from our lungs, all the air thrown out from our bodies, is vitiated and loaded with foul matters. It descends to our feet, and if it be allowed to rise to our lungs we breathe it over and over. When we can let our air in at the top, properly warmed, properly heated, and draw the foul air out by strong pumps at our feet, we will be constantly breathing free air; and until that system is adopted there can be no ventilation and no introduction of pure air into this Chamber which will answer the purpose. Mr. Harrison. How do you mean, sir? Mr. Harris, of Massachusetts. I understand they propose to force in heated air at the bottom and force out foul air by some process. I believe if gentlemen will take pains to investigate this subject they will come to the conclusion that any system of ventilation such as is now proposed is absolutely wrong-side up and will not work. * * * Mr. Harrison. I move to strike out the last word, in order to reply to the gentle- man from Massachusetts. I will say to the gentleman that this committee has studied this question, and believe what is proposed is not wrong-side up. A great many persons think that it is the easiest and simplest thing in the world to ventilate a large hall. Men who have been living in a small house, with a large fire-place and windows, where they can move from point to point, and when their backs are freezing turn round and warm their backs, or when their feet are cold can put their feet to the fire, imagine that that system can be brought into this huge establishment. They think also that if we could only get the sunlight — if we could in some way strike out these walls and admit the light of heaven — all would be right. Now, suppose that we were to attempt to strike out these walls. In the first place, strike these down and this vast superstructure, this roof which they support, would fall in upon us. But suppose it could be done safely, we would then throw the atmosphere of this House against the outer walls which are cold where it would become rapidly congealed and fall and cause numerous currents. But, then they say, “Give us the light of heaven.” Why, sir, in the Supreme Court, where they had the light of heaven, they could not stand it and have erected a screen to enable the lawyers who sit there to look at the judges. I do not know but the want of that light of heaven has been the cause of some late decisions; but I will not say anything on that subject. Mr. Chairman, it is an utter impossibility to connect natural and artificial venti- lation together. The two things are as oil and w r ater that cannot be mingled. And if you have natural ventilation with outside windows and large fire-places, then you must have gentlemen moving from point to point, their faces burning and their backs freezing. Y ou could not possibly by any natural system of ventilation heat this room in such a way that men could sit here during the day and keep themselves comfortable. In other large halls such as the great exchanges where men meet to discuss sales for half an hour or so they knock out the roof; but they stand while they are there. They cannot sit; men who sit still must have an equal heat upon them. Where men are moving about it is another thing. The question was before the committee whether we could have a downward system of ventilation. We found it utterly impractical. Some say, “Ybu do not exhaust the air.” The facts are that we can carry out of this building twice as much bad air as w r e can get fresh air in. Gentlemen say, “ Why do you not let the fresh air in?’ Fresh air can get into this room in two ways. One is through the shafts which heat The Extensions. 897 and temper it; the other is by opening the doors of this Hall. What would be the result of opening the doors? Draughts would come in through the open doors of the galleries, there would be a rush of air in the gallery, the bad air in rising is immedi- ately cooled, and falls back upon us, and we have to breathe it. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Clymer. The subject of the ventilation of this Hall is one full of interest to every member of this House and to the public who are in the habit of visiting it. It is a fact, and indeed a lamentable one, that very large numbers of those of us who are obliged to be here continuously have had our health seriously impaired by the foul condition of the air of this Hall. Therefore there seems to me to be a pressing necessity to adopt some means whereby this evil may be remedied. This being apparent, it is our duty to adopt some plan which will unquestionably secure the end desired. The trouble about that proposed by the gentleman from Illinois, [Mr. Harrison,] who seems to have studied the subject with care and to have a general idea as to what we should have, is that he is unable to offer us any guarantee what- ever of the success of his plan. The committee of which he is a member has called in the advice of experts, and we have before us their suppositions as to what will be the result of the plan proposed by them. But after all they are mere suppositions, and I fear that if we spend this large amount of money w r e wdll not be any better off in this respect next session than we are this session. Now, sir, there is a member of this House, one whose pursuits and habits in life have compelled him to make this subject of ventilation a study, one who has given it more thorough investigation, and one who has dealt with it more practically than any other person in this House and to a larger extent perhaps than most persons in the country whose lives are devoted to subjects of this kind. I have his word that if this House should authorize him — and he is amply responsible for all he offers to do — he will guarantee the perfect and entire ventilation of this Hall so that no man on the floor and no persons who occupy the gallery need complain of it. If w 7 e will say that he shall do this, he wall never ask of this Government one dollar unless he makes the ventilation perfect and complete. I confess that I would prefer to embrace an offer of this kind, coming from a responsible jierson, one who under- stands the subject, rather than try w'hat at best is alleged to be a mere experiment, for the result of which w 7 e have no guarantee in the assertion either of the gentle- man who jiroposes it or of those for whom he speaks. Mr. Harrison. The gentleman is mistaken in saying that it is an experiment. Mr. Clymer. The gentleman will pardon me; he certainly stated in the speech which he made in the early part of this discussion that he could not. guarantee its success. Mr. Harrison. Of course I cannot guarantee its success. Mr. Clymer. I propose to have it done by some one who will guarantee its success and who wi'll take the risk, and if it be not successful we will not be called on to pay a large sum of money for that which will be utterly worthless. A Member. To what member of Congress did you refer. Mr. Clymer. Hon. Mr. Hewitt, of New 7 York. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Atkins. I desire to ask the gentleman a question. It is this: If the vitiated atmosphere in this Hall is not produced by the oil-shops, the slop-shops, and cooking- places, and all that kind of thing below us, where? Mr. Harrison. No, sir. So far as the vitiated atmosphere, the atmosphere that is deleterious to health is concerned, that has nothing to do with it; but the unpleas- ant odors in the outer halls are due to that cause. Mr. Atkins. I want to say to the gentleman that there are some rooms below this Hall which are used for oiling machinery, and in which there is a great deal of H. Rep. 646 57 898 Documentary History of the Capitol. paint, and the atmosphere from those rooms passes right through this Hall and into the committee-rooms. Mr. Habkison. That is an entire mistake. The gentleman has been misinformed. Mr. Atkins. I am told so by the engineer of the House. Mr. White. I move to strike out the last word. I object to the amendment as it now stands for two reasons. The first one is that I am opposed to an appropriation of $100,000 for the improvement of these Capitol grounds. The second is that this amendment, which proposes to give $33,000, out of the $100,000 appropriated to the Capitol grounds, for the improvement of the ventilation of the House, would per- petuate a system which has been tried and found wanting. I am aware that very much of this bad ventilation can be attributed to the incompetent engineer that has charge of the heating apparatus of the House. I believe that if we had competent officers the ventilation would be much better; but never, until, as the gentleman from Massachusetts has suggested, this carbonic-acid gas goes in the direction that nature intended it should go — by making it heavier than the natural air — downward, instead of upward — shall we have a complete system of ventilation in this Hall. I want to say a word to the gentleman from Illinois, [Mr. Habkison,] who I regret has taken occasion to remind me of the fact that I am used to standing around log- cabin fires in the backwoods, simply because he happened to be born in the “ Blue Grass” region of Kentucky and I was not so fortunate as to be born there, and because his subsequent life has been spent in Chicago, where he could see great buildings and the powerful machinery for their ventilation, and smell the Chicago River. It was never my lot to do that. Now I want to call the attention of the House to this fact, and it is a fact, that we cannot have this carbonic-acid gas go upward before our faces without having to breathe it. You may say we breathe it in a very much diluted state and in a way that we get very little of it. But no man can tell, no scientist can tell how much or how little it takes of the foul gases that have once been breathed out of the lungs, if breathed in again, to make a man an invalid. The only proper way is to have a system of ventilation that lets the air go out at the bottom and brings in the pure air at the top. This amendment to give $33,000 for the ventilation of this Hall does not propose to do that. It proposes to continue the old system and make a stronger draught to force in more air at- the bottom. Yesterday I was cold and wanted a fire made in the cloak-room, but the servant told me that it was utterly impossible to build a fire because the draught down the chimney (which was occasioned by the draught in the House) was so great that the fire would not burn. I want to know whether under this appropriation of $33,000 we shall not increase the draught down the chimneys so as to make it utterly impossible to have fires in the grates lighted at all. I object to the amendment and appeal to the House to vote it down. Mr. Hewitt, of New York. As my name has been mentioned by the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Clymer] I feel constrained to say a word, but the House will see the condition to which I am reduced by the air of this House. I am abso- lutely unable to make myself heard. I have been under the doctor’s care for the last ten days, and I am assured, and I am conscious of it myself, that there is no other cause for it but the impure ventilation of this House. Now there are no difficulties in the way of ventilating any hall. It is a subject perfectly well understood. There are two systems of ventilation : the one is by the introduction of pure air at the top and the abstraction of impure air at the bottom, and there is the reverse of that system, the introduction of the pure air at the bottom and the abstraction of impure air at the top. They are both in successful operation in many places in this country and also in Europe. The former system, that which takes the impure air out at the bottom and intro- duces the pure air at the top, is the system of General Morin, the eminent director of the Conservatoire des Arts et Metiers in Paris. That system has been very largely applied in many public buildings and is invariably successful. The Extensions. 899 The other system, the system of abstracting the impure air at the top and intro- ducing the pure air at the bottom, is the system in use in the British houses of Par- liament, and in many buildings in this country, and it also works very well. As one instance of its admirable working, I can point to the Cooper Institute building in New York City, which has a larger hall than this, which is supplied with fresh air at the bottom and parts with its impure air at the top. The air is forced in and out at such a rate that in two minutes’ time every particle of air in the hall can be changed. The simple secret of the whole matter is that you cannot ventilate unless you get the air. The trouble in this ITall is that you do not get the air. All that it is nec- essary to do here is to get the air into this Hall, and if the openings are sufficiently large, (and I have no doubt they are, but if they are not they can very readily be made so,) the impure air will pass out. Just imagine that this Hall is tilled with material; it is not a vacant space but it is tilled with material substance. This impure air at the bottom must be taken out, must be pushed out of this Hall. If enough air does not come in in time to change it sufficiently to render it safe for life, then the impure air is not pushed out at all, but is left here as a solid mass, as it were, and being heavier than the pure air it sinks to the bottom and we breathe it. Now if gentlemen think that any member of Congress can ventilate this Hall, they must be like those who think that every man can be a farmer. The proper under- standing of the subject of ventilation is an art. I venture to say that those gentle- men who have signed this report are competent experts and know all about what they propose to do; and I have no doubt that if permitted they will accomplish the desired result. What I wanted to call the attention of the House to is the error which some gen- tlemen seem to have fallen into, that successful ventilation depends upon the adop- tion of one or the other of these systems. Good ventilation may be had by either of them. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Springer. I move to strike out the last word, and I yield my time to the gen- tleman from New York, [Mr. Hewitt.] Mr. Hewitt, of New York. I was merely going to add that what is required to get out the impure air from this Hall is a ventilating flue properly heated, so that the pressure which is brought to bear from the engine shall enable this impure air to pass readily out of the room. Of course it will be very easy to apply the system practi- tically to this room; there is no trouble about it. The suggestion of the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Clymer] was the result of an accidental conversation only. I have no desire to undertake the ventilation of this Hall. Mr. Clymer. I did not suppose the gentleman had. Mr. Hewitt, of New York. I think it would be entirely improper for any mem- ber of Congress to undertake to do any such thing. But I do say, with my expe- rience here for these two sessions, finding that my health is being undermined, and knowing that my usefulness is being destroyed, knowing that my constituents and, I believe, the constituents of every gentleman in this room do not desire that our health shall be impaired, but on the contrary have the greatest possible interest in preserving our health and maintaining our usefulness — knowing all that, I did say that if nothing else could be done 1 would be glad, and would feel that I had ren- dered some service in my day and generation, if I could be permitted at my own expense to ventilate this Hall, and I would not expect to be paid back from the public Treasury. And I say now that if gentlemen in this Hall cannot otherwise protect themselves from this bad atmosphere, and will allow me to confer this bene- faction upon my country, I may consider it the greatest opportunity of my life, at my own cost and expense, to provide for the proper ventilation of this Hall. Mr. White. I will offer an amendment that will cover that. 900 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Springer. I propose to resume the floor for the remainder of my time. I offer as an amendment to the amendment of the gentleman from Indiana [Mr. Holman] that which I send to the Clerk’s desk, and after it is read I will thank the Clerk to read the amendment as it will be if my amendment should be adopted. The Clerk read the amendment to the amendment; which was to strike out all after the word “Capitol,” down to and including the word “premises,” and to insert in lieu thereof the following: “Upon plans to be furnished by Hon. Abram S. Hewitt, and in such manner as he may direct;” so that the amendment, as amended, will read : Provided further , That a sum not exceeding $33,000 of this appropriation may be used for an improve- ment in the heating and ventilating apparatus of the House of Representatives, to be expended by the Architect of the Capitol upon plans to be furnished by Hon. Abram S. Hewitt, and in such man- ner as he may direct; and that hereafter the subject of ventilating and heating the House of Repre- sentatives be placed under the direction of the Architect of the Capitol. Mr. Hewitt, of New York. I sincerely hope that this amendment will not be adopted. It would put me in a very false position. I simply state my belief that this commission is composed of men who are quite competent to do this work and that it will be well done by them. I say further that, if it should fail to be properly done by them, I will be willing to accept any responsibility that may be imposed upon me by this House; but it would be very unjust to put that responsibility on me now. Mr. Springer. I withdraw the amendment to the amendment. Mr. White. I desire to offer a substitute. Mr. Fort. Mr. Chairman Mr. Holman. I hope that after the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Fort] is heard the debate on this paragraph will cease by unanimous consent. Mr. White. I object. I want to offer an amendment. Mr. Holman. There is no objection to offering an amendment, but we want the debate to stop. Mr. White. I would like to explain the amendment. Mr. Fort. Mr. Chairman, experience has taught us that one of the best systems of ventilating this House is the plan of issuing tickets to the galleries. It reduces the number of bellows that are operating upon the atmosphere there, and, in refer- ence to one portion of the gallery, it changes very much the character of the individu- als who are engaged in that business. Formerly I fancied, when I approached one portion of this gallery, that I could feel the impurities pouring down upon my head almost as perceptibly as I would water tumbling over a precipice. The trouble has been that, the amount of fresh air coming into the Hall has often been insufficient for the number of persons in attendance. Mr. Harrison. I said that last year. Mr. Fort. And the difficulty is not altogether with the number of persons. The character and condition of the persons occupying the gallery have very often a great deal to do with the condition of the atmosphere that pours down upon our heads from a certain gallery in this House. This consideration proves to me conclusively that impure air must descend. It is impossible to make the impurities in the atmosphere go upward except by an atmos- pheric current. Hot air will rise as a balloon will rise; cold air will go downward as a cannon ball goes downward. But the impurities in the atmosphere will not rise unless carried up by a current. We must have currents. In my judgment nature can ventilate this Hall cheaper and better than all the machinery which gentlemen can apply. What we most want is to have pure air come in around this Hall; and without attempting to resort to machinery or mechan- ical contrivances we must spend a great deal of money in order to get sufficient quantities of air into this Hall to supply such an audieuce as we often have here when the galleries are full. The remedy must in a great degree consist in bringing in pure The Extensions. 901 air and letting the impurities pass out with the current. As the gentleman from New York said, you can drive out impure air, but you must do it with a current. Impure air, even though heated, will not rise unless you have a current. Mr. White. I move to amend by inserting the following: That the proposition of the gentleman from New York [Mr. Hewitt] he, and is hereby, accepted by the House. We have been told by the gentleman in charge of this bill [Mr. Holman] that it appropriates a very large sum of money. Yet we are asked to give $100,000 for the improvement of the pavements, walks, and grounds around this building. Seeing that it is more necessary to improve the inside of the cup or platter than to polish the outside, the gentleman has kindly consented that $33,000 of this $100,000 should be appropriated to the ventilation of this Hall. The purposed mode of improvement is admitted to be a theory — the vision of some scientists or of several perhaps. It is also indorsed by the distinguished gentleman from New York [Mr. Hewitt], who says he believes the system proposed in the report will be a success. But it is not denied that the plan is simply an experiment. Now the gentleman from New York has kindly offered to take this experiment upon his own shoulders. He has led us to believe that these charges about the great amounts of money which the democratic party spent in the late election did not touch him; that he is left whole with an abundance of means; and he proposes to benefit his race by improving the ventila- tion of the Hall occupied by the representatives of the people. I say allow him to do it. If you do not you will have upon your heads the curse of having given $33,000 to carry out a mere experiment, the money expended upon which will prove to be worse that thrown away. I say, allow the gentleman from New York to come in and take this responsibility upon his own shoulders. If he fails, his name will go down to history as a failure; if he succeeds, posterity will honor him. But in either event the Government will save $33,000. Mr. Hakrison. 1 rise to oppose the amendment. I am sorry to say I do not know whether my friend from Kentucky [Mr. White] meant this for a joke or not. If he did, it was a good one. If he meant it for a castigation of the gentleman from New York, 1 think that gentleman can afford to let it go. The bray will come back and break upon his own ears, not upon those of the gentleman from New York. Now I want to say one word. This is a serious matter. They say that this propo- sition is an experiment. The Senate, sir, has exactly the same plan we have here and it is a success, only the Senate’s Hall being smaller, the flues adequate, and the ducts large enough, they get a sufficiency of air. Go to the Senate Chamber, and when you open the door you will find the current of air coming out of the Sen- ate into the corridor. Stand at yonder door or any of these doors in this Hall and the current comes from without. Here we have to put screens before our doors to prevent gentlemen who sit in the neighborhood of them from being made sick. In the Senate the air comes in warm and tempered, and presses out, and so strong is it that when you go into the corridor of the Senate you will feel the pure air coming toward you. Why is that? The gentlemen from Kentucky [Mr. White], bred away up in the mountains of Kentucky, where in the houses when the chinks drop out the air pours in and they have health, where a backlog is put on and turned around like you would turn a turkey on a spit Mr. White. Does the gentleman mean to say I was born in the “ pea- vine region ” of Kentucky, for if he does Mr. Harrison. I was born there myself if you were not, and if you were you ought not to be ashamed of it. Now, in getting the foul air out, the exhaust of this House is so large that instead of having air coming from below and pressing out we have to keep the air from the corridors. The exhaust of this House is one hundred and eighty thousand feet a minute, whereas the air driven in only gives about forty or fifty or sixty thousand feet when severely pressed. The consequence is that with the exhaust fan run to its capacity or in the neighborhood of its capacity the air from the 902 Documentary History of the Capitol. corridors rushes in and makes draughts. Our proposition is to give the ability to the atmosphere from without to he brought into the stacks, the radiators heated and tem- pered, and then when it gets impure to pass out. I am myself running an elevator in the city of Syracuse, and it is run in addition to heating the building with steam. I have in my hand an estimate from the engi- neer who runs the elevator and warms the building with steam, in which he esti- mates the entire additional expense of running the elevator at $2.54 a day, giving all the items of expense. I say that the additional expense of running this elevator would not exceed $3 a day, and that, it would be the greatest public convenience that could be added to this building. [Here the hammer fell.] Mr. Holman. I only wash to say that the elevator at the other end of the Capitol, which, after great hesitation, we allowed, has cost the Government not less than $5,000 a year from the year that it was first established, including the many altera- tions that have been made, the engine, the engineer, and the conductor. And in view of the large sum appropriated by this bill the Committee on Appropriations ask the House to vote down this amendment. Mr. Banks. I move to strike out the last word. The proposition presented is cer- tainly well worth the consideration of the House. There is no portion of their labor more worrisome upon members of this House than that of getting here during a large portion of the year, and especially during a large portion of the long session. Now the elevator since it was first invented has of its own force been adopted in almost every public building in all parts of the country. I know perfectly well the man who invented it and without any effort to give it popularity it has now been adopted and is being adopted in all the public buildings, in all the hotels, and in a great many private houses in this country, and will be ultimately in other countries. Now where there are so many persons obliged to come here, upon what theory or reason can it be said that they shall be compelled every day to walk up and down these four flights of stairs which we are obliged to travel, many of us, from other causes which have been spoken of here, in ill health and many advanced in years? It seems to me that this is one of the absolutely necessary expenses that we should incur. Now, what has been said by the gentleman from Indiana [Mr. Holman] may be strictly true. It may cost $5,000 to run the elevator at the other end of this build- ing, but it does not cost $5,000 nor $1,000 to run the elevators that are used in hotels, in stores, and in commercial establishments, and there is no reason in the world why it should cost more than $1,000 at the outside to run an elevator for a year at this end of the Capitol. I hope the House, in consideration of the advantages and com- forts to be derived from an elevator and of the thanks they will receive from those men who will follow them in the performance of their duties here, will vote for this appropriation. I withdraw the formal amendment. The question was then taken upon the amendment moved by Mr. Leavenworth, and upon a division there were — ayes 67, noes 70. Before the result of this vote was announced, Mr. Leavenworth said: No quorum has voted, and I call for a further count. Tellers were ordered; and Mr. Leavenworth and Mr. Holman were appointed. The committee again divided; but before the result was declared, Mr. Conger said: I suppose consent will be given to have a vote taken on this amendment in the House, and then we can go on with the bill. Mr. White. I hope the gentleman from Illinois will not take his seat without yielding to me after what he has said. Mr. Holman. I believe I have the floor. Mr. Banks. Before debate is closed I wish to be heard. Mr. Holman. I move by unanimous consent all debate on the pending paragraph be considered as closed when the gentleman from Massachusetts has completed what he has to say. The Extensions. 903 The Chairman. The Chair hears no objection, and that will be considered as agreed to. Mr. Banks. Now, Mr. Chairman, while the proposition of the gentleman from New York is a very liberal one, yet it seems to me if the ventilation of this Ilall is to be perfected, the Government is able, and ought to take upon itself the expense and responsibility of it. Therefore I hope the gentleman from Kentucky will withdraw his amendment. Mr. White. I certainly will if the gentleman from Massachusetts will yield a moment to me to say a word. Mr. Banks. I will yield to the gentleman from Kentucky before my time has expired. Mr. White. But I wish to say it now, and say it to the gentleman from Illinois who referred to me in his five-minute speech — I only want one word. Mr. Banks. Very well; I will yield to the gentleman for one word. Say it now before the time is gone. Mr. White. I say the gentleman from Illinois in taunting me with being born in the hills of Kentucky, in the “pea- vine district,” instead of the “blue grass” or lower silurian limestone region of Kentucky, as he was, is unkind in this Mr. Harrison. I take it all back if the gentleman feels so bad about it. Mr. White. I am not ashamed of the “pea-vine” district; I am proud of it. But if I had lived so long by that sweet-smelling river Chicago, as the gentleman has, then I could live on anything and would not need any ventilation, and therefore I do not wonder he introduces such an abominable system after he himself has lived there so long. Mr. Banks. Now, Mr. Chairman, the difficulties we encounter in this Hall in regard to ventilation were imposed upon us by scientific men. We had scientific men from all parts of the world. The architects of the British houses of Parliament were here, and spent a whole year, and whatever scientific men could do they have done for us, and about as much as any scientific men will do hereafter. The difficulty is, this is an iron box within a stone box. There are twenty-five or thirty feet between the outside walls of this Chamber and the outside walls of the building; and no natural light and no natural air ever did or ever can come into this Chamber. How can it be made a suitable place for the daily assembling of from four hundred to fourteen hundred people? I do not believe bringing currents of air into this Chamber from the outside can remedy the difficulty; nor do I believe these currents of air can be disposed of so as not to be dangerous to members of the House and to the ladies and others seated in the galleries. There is a current of air that is strong enough to sweep away an ordinary person in some parts of the gallery where the wives and children of the members daily congregate; and if you bring in air enough to make a ventilation for all these people, you will have a force of the currents that will be just as dangerous to those who encounter it as the foulness of the air itself. But as the committee has considered the subject maturely, and as I know the gen- tlemen who have charge of the inquiries into this matter are well acquainted with the subject, and as the expense of the experiment will be trifling, I hope it will be made; and that if it fail we will then do what is necessary to be done, bring this Chamber to the air and light of heaven, which are better than any scientific man ever made, better than that which the honorable gentleman from New York [Mr. Hew- itt] proposes to make or can make. Let us go to the outside and bring in the air and light of heaven, which the Cooper Institute, to which he refers and whose ven- tilation he approves, enjoys, and with which every building on the face of the earth is accommodated where there is a free and pure air. Meanwhile I am willing to vote for the report of the gentlemen who have examined this matter. Mr. Hewitt, of New York. I wish to explain, in regard to the great hall of the Cooper Institute, that it has no access to the outer air. It is a tight box, into which the air is forced by power and out of which the air goes by a ventilating flue. It is 904 Documentary History of the Capitol. a case in point. The great hall of the Cooper Institute has no access to the outer air except that forced into it by power. Mr. Banks. The hall of the Cooper Institute is used for two or three hours in an „ evening, fifteen hundred or two thousand people congregating in it and going away after an hour or two. I have no doubt that fresh air can be supplied in the way the gentleman speaks of for a limited time, but we are here from four to six hours every day. Mr. White. I withdraw my amendment. The Chairman. The question is on the amendment of the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Harrison] as modified on the suggestion of the gentleman from Indiana [Mr. Holman. ] Mr. White. I hope the gentlemen who have this matter in charge will divide the amendment so that we can vote on the $33,000 for ventilating, and then afterward on the other matter. The Chairman. Debate is not in order. Mr. WniTE. My object is that no part of the $67,000 proposed in this amendment may go to the improvement of these public grounds. Mr. Holman. Move to reduce the appropropriation of $100,000. Mr. White. I move to reduce the $100,000 to $33,000. I do it for the reason The Chairman. Debate is not in order. The gentleman will put his amendment in writing. Mr. White. I offer the following amendment: Strike out “8100,000,” and insert “$33,000.” The question being taken on Mr. White’s amendment to the amendment, it was not agreed to. The question being taken on Mr. Harrison’s amendment as modified, there were— ayes 48, noes 14; no quorum voting. Mr. White. I call for a further count. Tellers were ordered; and Mr. White and Mr. Springer were appointed. The committee again divided; and the tellers reported — ayes 84, noes 39. Mr. White. A quorum has not voted. I do not, however, make a point on that, but shall ask for a vote in the House. So further count not being called for, the amendment was agreed to. Mr. Leavenworth. I offer the following amendment. After the word “grounds” insert the following: And for putting an elevator in the south wing of the Capitol, to be done under the direction of the Architect of the Capitol. Mr. Holman. I am compelled to insist upon the point of order that this is new work. The Chairman. The Chair sustains the point of order. Mr. Leavenworth. Will the Chair allow me to say that this differs from my former amendment? This stands on precisely the same footing as the amendment just adopted. It is not subject to the objection made to it by the gentleman from Indiana. It makes no additional appropriation. The Chairman. The Chair misunderstood the object of the amendment. It is in order. Mr. Le avenworth. It is a most extraordinary fact that the American Congress should have spent tens of millions of dollars on this building which we occupy; that we should have adorned it with the most elaborate frescoing found anywhere on the continent ; that we should have spent hundreds of thousands of dollars in beautifying it architecturally; and that we are now spending hundreds of thousands of dollars in buying additional grounds and beautifying them; and yet that we should be denying ourselves the most common comforts that modern civilization has produced. Every public building of any importance, every hotel that is put up in any city on the continent, every store in which a large amount of business is transacted, every factory which is built in the country, every large edifice which is erected for the purpose of being rented, four stories high, is provided with an elevator. It has The Extensions. 905 become a necessity. It is not one of the luxuries of life, like those for which we have expended here so many millions of dollars, but is one of the ordinary comforts of life. But yet we deny ourselves this convenience and comfort; for we are, in this building, like people in a fourth story. This is substantially the fourth story, although we call it the second; for each flight of stairs is equal to two flights in an ordinary building. Ascending to the second story of this building is equivalent to ascending to the fourth story of any ordinary building. And yet we deny to our- selves the convenience and comfort of an elevator in getting to the second floor of this building. We deny the same conveniences to every person that attends this House. There is not a hotel in this country in which one-quarter of the number of ladies go up stairs daily as ascend to these galleries every day, and yet we deny to our mothers, our sisters, our wives, and all the ladies of this country the necessary convenience which an elevator affords to them. We have an elevator at the other end of the Capitol, and the additional expense of running this elevator will be noth- ing. I call the attention of the House to the letter of the Architect of the Capitol, which I send to the Clerk’s desk and ask to have read. Mr. Atkins. I rise to a question of order. The gentleman’s time has expired. Mr. Holman. I raised a question of order on this proposition, and in the midst of the confusion 1 presume the Chair did not understand it. It was that tins is inde- pendent legislation on an appropriation bill. It is entirely immaterial whether it appropriates money or not. It is legislation on an appropriation bill and it does not reduce expenditures, but conceding that it reduced expenditures it would not be in order. It is independent legislation and not in the line of retrenchment. Buie 120 of the House is very imperative on this subject. This bill is certainly large enough not to be loaded down with independent provisions. Mr. Springer. The one hundred and twentieth rule has reference to amendments which change existing law, and if an amendment changes existing law it must be in the line of retrenchment to make it in order. But this amendment does not change existing law, and therefore that rule does not apply to it. The Chairman. The amendment is in order. Mr. Conger. Then I rise to oppose the amendment, and I yield my time to the gentleman from New York, [Mr. Leavenworth.] Mr. Leavenworth. I call for the reading of the letter. The Clerk read the letter, as follows: Architect’s Office, United States Capitol, Washington, D. C., January 31, 1877. Sir: In reply to yours of the 29th instant, I beg leave to state that I have exam- ined the south wing of the Capitol in reference to the location of a passenger elevator. In my judgment, the most suitable place is at the south end of the eastern corridor, near the entrance to the room of the Committee on Appropriations, and convenient to the bronze stairway. The estimated cost of the elevator, together with that of changing the position of doorway where necessary in the rooms in each story, is as follows: For elevator $6, 000 For carrying steam-pipe to elevator 300 For constructing well-hole and tiling floors to correspond with present pat- terns 2, 500 For changing doorways in rooms and painting the rooms, rendered necessary by the change 5( 0 9, 300 The cost of running an elevator will be put little beyond the salary of the attendant. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Edward Clark, Architect of the United States Capitol. Hon. E. W. Leavenworth. Documentary History of the Capitol. 906 Mr. Leavenworth. Mr. Chairman, the only expense which is involved by the amendment now offered is not an expense in addition to the appropriation; it merely defines the mode in which a portion of the appropriation shall be expended, and when the elevator has been put in there is the entire expense. You already have the engineer; you have the engine also; you have all the conveniences; you have the power, and it is only necessary to apply the power to the elevator. That is all the additional expense there is. The entire additional expense which would be involved in running the elevator would not amount to $3 a day. Many Members. 0, no. The tellers completed their count, and reported that there were — ayes 63, noes 75. Mr. Leavenworth. I do not insist upon a further count. No further count being called for, the amendment was accordingly declared to be not agreed to. The Clerk resumed the reading of the bill, and read through the portion relating to the Capitol extension. Mr. Holman. With a view of asking the House for an evening session, as it is now half past four o’clock, I will move that the committee rise. The motion was agreed to. The committee accordingly rose; and the Speaker having resumed the chair, Mr. Buckner reported that the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union had had under consideration the bill (H. R. No. 4682) making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1878, and had come to no resolution thereon. [House proceedings of Feb. 26, 1877: Congressional Record, 44 — 2, p. 1949.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1878 — Mr. Harrison. The other day there was a discussion with regard to the ventilation of the House and I offered an amendment which was adopted. I desire now to correct the phraseology of that amendment and ask unanimous consent that that which I now offer be accepted in place of the amendment already adopted. The Clerk read the proposed amendment, as follows: Provided , however. That a sum not exceeding $33,000 of this appropriation may be used for the improvement of the heating and ventilating of the House of Representives, to be expended by the Architect of the Capitol in accordance with the report of the board of United States officers convened by the request of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, and that said board of officers be requested to advise the Architect in the premises, and that hereafter the subject of ventilating and heating the House of Representatives be placed under the direction of the Architect of the Capitol. Mr. Holman. What is the change made upon the amendment as already adopted? Mr. Harrison. The words “ in accordance with the report submitted by the board of United States officers,” &c., are inserted. Mr. Holman. There is no objection to that. By unanimous consent the amendment as now read was substituted for that here- tofore adopted. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and seventy-eight, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1877. (Stats, at Large, v. 19, 348. )] Capitol extension: For work on the Capitol, and for general care and repairs thereof, forty thousand dollars. For four new steam-boilers, waste-water pipes, and attachments, for the Senate wing of the Capitol, fifteen thousand dollars. And the Architect of the Capitol is hereby authorized to dispose of the old boilers at public auction. The Extensions. 907 [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, Oct 1, 1877. (45 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 1, p. 899.1] The question of improving the heating and ventilation of the Representative Chamber engaged so much attention during the last session of Congress that a com- mittee on this subject was appointed under a resolution of the House. After much consultation by them, it was ordered that the whole subject be referred to a commission of gentlemen named by them for examination and recommendation as to what changes, in their judgment, should be made. This commission, after a thorough examination of the apparatus and various plans and reports proposing changes, finally recommended as follows: [Quoted in House proceedings of Feb. 21, 1877.] As provided by law, the changes and improvements recommended above have been made. [From the annual report of Carl Schurz, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 1, 1877. (45—2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 1, p. LII.)] The Architect reports that the entire building has been kept in good condition, and that new boilers and an elevator have been put in the Senate wing. He also states that important changes and improvements in the heating and venti- lating apparatus of the House wing have been made, as recommended by a commis- sion, consisting of Prof. Joseph Henry; Col. T. L. Casey, Corps of Engineers, United States Army; Mr. F. Schumann, engineer; Surgeon J. S. Billings, United States Army, and the Architect of the Capitol. He states that these improvements have been considered satisfactory and gives a detailed description of them. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and seventy-nine, and for other purposes,’’ approved June 20, 1878. (Stats, at Large, v. 20, 226, 239.)] Capitol extension: For work on the Capitol, and for general repairs thereof, fifty- five thousand dollars. To enable the Joint Committee on the Library to purchase works of art for the Capitol building, fifteen thousand dollars. To purchase the portraits of the Presidents, three thousand dollars. [House proceedings of Feb. 27, 1879: Congressional Record, 45 — 3, p. 1987.] Mr. Young, of Tennessee. I am instructed, Mr. Speaker, by a select committee to submit the following report: Mr. Casey Young, from the Select Committee on Ventilation of the Hall, submitted the following report: [45 — 3, House Rept. No. 116. 18 pages.] Mr. Young, of Tennessee. I will endeavor to explain as briefly as possible the alterations in the present system of ventilating, heating, and lighting the Flail of Representatives suggested in the report just read at the Clerk’s desk. At the first session of the Forty-fourth Congress this subject was referred to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, of which I was a member. That committee appointed a subcommittee which investigated the whole subject, anil at the outset of their inquiries they discovered two prominent and important facts. One was that the condition of the atmosphere in the Hall when occupied by any considerable number 908 Documentary History of the Capitol. of individuals was exceedingly dangerous to the health of members and other per- sons occupying the floor and galleries. A competent chemist was employed to analyze the air which we were compelled to breathe, and by his report we learned that the greatest danger existed to the health of every man who breathed it for any considerable length of time. Another fact which was very soon disclosed to the gentlemen investigating this subject was that the lighting, heating, and ventilating of any building, particularly one constructed like this, was a problem requiring so much of scientific learning and so careful an investigation that it was almost impos- sible for any committee of this body to arrive at an intelligent conclusion. Hence it was that it was deemed proper by the committee to call to their assistance the aid of gentlemen who from their scientific attainments were better qualified to determine the various questions presented to their consideration than they were themselves. Accordingly a board of five scientific Government officers, of which Professor Henry of the Smithsonian Institution was chairman, was organized by this committee and requested to suggest such changes and alterations in the architecture of the Plall as would perfect its lighting, acoustic, and heating properties. These gentlemen, after an investigation extending over a period of more than twelve months, submitted the result of their investigations, which are set out mainly in the report which has just been read. Among the most important changes which have been recommended, in my judg- ment, by the board of scientists is the removal of part of the second wall back of the Speaker’s stand, intervening between it and the reception, Speaker'’ s, and official reporters’ room, throwing the whole space into an open lobby, so that the light and sunshine from the south may be reached through the outer wall. The drawings I have before me show the condition of the lobby and rooms back of the Speaker’s chair as they at present appear, and how they will be when the proposed change is made. The second suggestion made is the removal of the desks from the Hall, in order that the space for air-openings in the floor may be enlarged, so that a larger quantity of fresh air may be admitted. The greatest difficulty we have had to contend with in adjusting this nice and delicate problem of ventilation is getting into the Hall enough of fresh air under any condition, and we found it impossible with the open- ings now in the floor to obtain as great a quantity as is required for healthful ventila- tion; and hence for that purpose, among other arrangements, the removal of the desks is urged both by the board of scientists and the committee. It is deemed proper and important by these gentlemen also to build open fire- places around the inner wall of the House, for two purposes: one to produce radiant heat, and the other to provide a means of ventilation, carrying off the poisonous and noxious gases that circulate in the Hall whenever occupied by any number of per- sons. But without the removal of the desks, thus bringing the outer circle of seats thirteen feet nearer the Speaker’s stand, these fire-places cannot be built except in the corners of the Hall, as they would give too much heat for the comfort of the members who under the present arrangement would be compelled to sit near them. So this suggestion cannot be carried out without their removal. These are the more important suggestions made by this board of scientists; and after a careful examina- tion we think all of them are important and should be adopted by the House and carried into execution as quickly as possible. If there is nothing more to be said by any one else, I will call the previous ques- tion on the resolution. Mr. Wood addressed the Chair. The Speaker. The Chair would like to have order. There is scarcely any subject that is more important to the comfort, almost the lives, of members than this very subject. The Chair thinks there ought to be order to hear the remarks of gentlemen upon it. , The Extensions. 909 Mr. Wood. I concur entirely in the remarks of the Speaker with reference to the importance of this question. There is in this report, as I am advised by gentlemen who are familiar with the scientific part of the question, a great deal of good. But there is one suggestion as to which I doubt whether it can be practically executed. Scientific men are very well in theory, but in the practical affairs of life they very frequently fail. I doubt very much whether it is practicable to conduct the business of this House without the desks we are in the habit of occupying. In the English House of Com- mons the debates and business of the house are conducted on an entirely different principle from what has grown up to be a practice and usage, and which is positive law with reference to our deliberations, if we have any deliberations in the House here. Now members conduct a great deal of their correspondence and a great deal of their examination of important papers, and to a large extent prepare their speeches, during the running debates in the House upon ordinary business, and they do it at their desks. We certainly do not want to adopt a practice which would be constantly compelling us to have a call of the House to bring members in for the purpose of voting, which would inevitably result from the abolition of the desks in this Hall. Now, sir, I am old enough to recollect the old Hall before this wing of the Capitol was built. When I first came to Congress we had not this Hall. What is now the round room known as the Hall of Statuary, between this and the main Rotunda, was then the Hall of the House of Representatives. We had access to the fresh air from without constantly by having no rooms in the outer wall of the Hall in which we assembled, and we had all the ventilation we could possibly require simply by the absence of the obstructions which stand between this Hall and the outer wall of this end of the Capitol. So far, therefore, as carrying out the report of the committee would remove these obstructions and give us the fresh air from without, with the addition of a wind-sail which would bring in the fresh air from over our heads and remove this malaria which we are constantly breathing, and so far as we could get pure air from below by any process of ventilation that can be recommended by the committee, I favor it; but I cannot favor any plan for the removal of the desks, which in my opinion are so necessary for the business of the House. Mr. Clymer. Will the gentleman from Tennessee yield to me that I may offer an amendment? Mr. Cook. I rise to a question of order. There is so much noise in the Hall that it is impossible to hear a word that is said. The Speaker. The Chair has repeatedly requested gentlemen to be silent, but seems to be powerless. The gentleman from Georgia raises the question of order that gentlemen speaking cannot be heard. The Chair requests the House to come to order. Mr. Young, of Tennessee. I entertain the opinion that has been expressed by the gentleman from New York, [Mr. Wood.] When I first commenced the investigation of this subject, I believed, as he does now, that it would be exceedingly inconvenient for the members of this House to remove the desks, but a more careful and extended examination of the subject has satisfied me that they ought to be removed, not only for the purpose of securing a more perfect system of ventilation, but in order to promote the public interest and the dispatch of public business. In the first place, one of the most important advantages that would result from it would be the bringing of the rear circle of seats thirteen feet nearer the Speaker’s stand, and every gentleman who has had the misfortune I have had for the last four years, to sit in one of the outer seats, will readily appreciate the convenience that will result in that respect. It is known to every gentleman on this floor that during the discussion and consideration of the greatest and most important questions that 910 Documentary History of the Capitol. are submitted for our action two-thirds of the members of this House are busily engaged in writing at their desks, and scarcely know what subject is under considera- tion. I know this is the case with myself, and I believe the observation and practice of other gentlemen coincide with my own. Now, it is proposed, in order to meet the temporary inconvenience which members would feel by the removal of desks as regards writing purposes, to have placed immediately inside of the iron railing fifteen tables four feet long and two and one-half feet wide, provided with writing materials, where members can go and write for any length of time they may choose. Then, for such writing as it is desirable to do at their seats we propose to substi- tute for the chairs we now have chairs with a wing on one side and a drawer on the other where writing materials may be kept, and at which anything which it is neces- sary to write hurriedly at the seat may be written. If gentlemen who doubt the convenience of this arrangement will be kind enough to step to the seat of my colleague on the committee, the gentleman from Massachusetts, [Mr. Loring,] and examine his chair they will be convinced that the introduction of such chairs into the Hall will be a very great improvement upon those we now have with the desks in front. Mr. Steele. I desire to hear my friend from Tennessee, [Mr. Young.] Mr. Young, of Tennessee. I would be very happy to have you do so, as I think you would be interested by what I am saying. The Speaker. It has come to this, that the request of the Chair must be regarded. Mr. Young, of Tennessee. I am not at all disturbed. Mr. Steele. I am not quite through. The Speaker. Gentlemen must be quiet, and the Sergeant-at-Arms will go through the Hall and request those whom he may see conversing to cease conversation. Mr. Steele. I was going to say if the gentleman from Tennessee [Mr. Young] would change his position and take a place in another part of the Hall, then there would be an opportunity for all to hear him. I do not like to have him turn his back to me when he is engaged in so important an enterprise. Mr. Young, of Tennessee. I know of no one to whom I would sooner turn my face than the gentleman from North Carolina [Mr. Steele.] It is not my habit to turn my back to gentlemen like him, and if I have done so now it is only from the force of circumstances, among which is the fact that I can only face one way at a time. * * ■X- Mr. Young, of Tennessee. Ever since I have been here I have had my full share of the difficulty which my friend from North Carolina [Mr. Steele] points out as the one under which he is laboring at this time by reason of the location of his seat; for I have not occupied a position where I could be heard distinctly the few times I felt myself called upon to speak, nor indeed where I could hear anybody else. That is one reason why I desire to have these desks removed, so that gentlemen who like myself have seats on the outer circle can get near enough to the desk to understand what is said upon questions of legislation. I now yield to the gentleman from Penn- sylvania, [Mr. Clymer.] Mr. Clymer. It will be remembered that when this important subject was under consideration in the former Congress there was a member of the House who at that time took an active and intelligent interest in the question. I allude to Mr. Hewitt, of New York. In his remarks upon the subject he showed an intimate acquaintance with it, and the feeling seemed to be general in that Congress that it would be bene- ficial if he could carry his views into effect. I ask the gentleman from Tennessee [Mr. Young] to add his name to the list of commissioners. Mr. Young, of Tennessee. I have no objection. Mr. Clymer. I make the suggestion without his knowledge, and it may be that he will be unwilling to serve. But he is about to close a useful and honorable career in The Extensions. 911 this body, and I conceive that it would be his pleasure, if he did not feel it to be his duty, to render his country the important service of aiding to make this Hall agree- able and healthful for the Representatives, which it is not now. I therefore move to add the name of Abram S. Hewitt, of New York. 8 Mr. O’Neill. From the statements made by the gentleman from Tennessee [Mr. Young] I have no doubt as to how I shall vote upon the proposition when sub- mitted to the House. I look upon it, however, as a merely temporary arrangement, an effort to get proper ventilation in this Hall. I have lived in the Hall with its present ventilation for a great many years and I have enjoyed good health; and I hope to live in it many years yet by the will of my constituents. I look upon all these propositions as temporary expedients. We never will have a Hall fit for the House of Representatives to sit in until some rearrangement of this Capitol building is made. I think there is pending now in the Senate a bill pro- posing to extend the central portion of the Capitol east and west, by which means there will be provided a hall for the House of Representatives and one for the Senate in those extensions, and in that way we can have the fresh air of heaven coming into the Halls of the two Houses. Besides we would have the Senate and House nearer to each other, and then members and Senators would save themselves the frequent walks we now have to take when we desire to see each other. It seems to me that it would be well for us to expend some millions of dollars to perfect the arrangement of the Capitol building. There need not be any waste of the space which we now occupy in this Hall. By removing the galleries and taking away the lobbies, extending the Hall so that it will reach the open air of the south, we would have a magnificent room for the Congressional Library. And altering the Senate Chamber in the same way would provide a most commodious room for the Supreme Court of the United States. Now, as regards the Halls of the two Houses of Congress, from my experience of all the changes and experiments that, have been made for proper ventilation, I think we will never have any success until the building is extended and rearranged, not only for the purpose of producing the proper architectural effect, but for the purpose of bringing the air of heaven into the Halls of the two Houses, where members and Senators are sitting. I therefore look upon this as a mere temporary expedient. I shall vote for the proposition submitted, but at the same time I trust that the gener- osity and liberality of Congress, not at this session perhaps but at some coming session, will be such that the Representatives of the people will be willing to expend some millions of dollars to perfect this great building of which the country is so proud, and of which it will be prouder when it is altered and so arranged as to pro- duce the proper architectural effect and comfort for those using it. Mr. Harris, of Virginia. I cannot consent to any arrangement by which these desks are to be removed. I happened to be here in the Thirty-sixth Congress when the same feeling that seems to be now prevailing in regard to removing the desks took possession of the House. At the first session of that Congress the order was made for the removal of the desks; and when we returned for the short session the desks had been removed and chairs and circular benches had been put in their places. How did the change operate? No member had any place on which to put a book or a paper. When a gentleman rose to speak, if he had manuscript in his hand, a page ran around with a small desk and put it down before him; and when he had finished, the page ran and placed it before the member next speaking. The arrangement became so manifestly inconvenient that before the session expired an order was made for the restoration of the old desks. My friend from Tennessee just now illustrated himself the use of these desks. He had two jiapers before him, and read first from one and then from the other, laying each paper on the desk while not reading. Now, if the gentleman had had no desk before him, what would he have done with those extra papers? He would have been obliged to call a page to 912 Documentary History of the Capitol. hold the papers or put them on the floor. Gentlemen can hardly realize the con- venience of these desks until they have made the experiment of doing without them. I hope we shall adopt no plan under which the desks will be removed. Mr. Reagan. I do not propose to discuss the whole plan proposed by this com- mittee; I wish merely to express my concurrence with the remarks of the gentleman from Virginia [Mr. Harris] in reference to the removal of the desks. In the Thirty- fifth or the Thirty-sixth Congress the House reached the conclusion that it would facilitate business and enable members to give more careful attention to current legislation if the desks were removed and members thus prevented from writing at their seats. We did remove the desks and had benches provided for members. But we submitted to that arrangement for a few weeks only, when we became satisfied that we could better attend to our duties, better perform our obligations to our con- stituents by having desks before us than by being deprived of them. I feel, sir, that the attempt to deprive ourselves of the use of desks would be a mistake which we would soon be obliged to rectify. Mr. Hayes. I would like to ask the gentleman from Tennessee whether the chair which stands over in the corner is a sample of the chairs which the committee pro- pose to put in this Hall. Mr. Young, of Tennessee. Yes, sir. Mr. Hayes. Well, if that chair is a sample, it seems to me it is only necessary for any member to examine it and sit in it a few moments, to become entirely satisfied that such a chair will not be suitable for this House. We want a chair with a back which we can lean upon comfortably, and in which we can turn. We sit here gen- erally from four to six hours daily, sometimes longer; and we want to turn about in our seats. In such a chair as the sample over in the corner, we would be obliged to sit in one position with no possibility of resting ourselves by a change of posture. I agree also with what has been said in regard to the desks. It does seem to me that we must have before us here something upon which we can place our papers and in which we can keep them. It strikes me that what the gentleman from New York [Mr. Wood] has said is true: that if we remove these desks, it will not be six weeks before we shall pass a resolution to replace them. I believe we must have something of this kind for our convenience. Mr. Wood. The gentleman from Tennessee [Mr. Young] asked me a few moments ago to look at the chair which is in one of the corners of the Hall, and which is a sample of the chairs the committee propose to substitute for these desks. I have examined it; and my opinion is, that by introducing such chairs we shall gain noth- ing in point of room, while we would suffer very serious inconvenience, and that Ave would not retain them three days after we had adopted them. Mr. Loring. Mr. Speaker, I am glad that thus far in this discussion no objection has been made to the plan of the committee Avith regard to ventilation. It is encouraging to knoAA r that this House agrees that the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. O’Neill] is the only member Avho enjoys good health under existing circum- stances. [Laughter.] Mr. O’Neill. I want to say that during fourteen years I have never been one-half hour out of this House on account of sickness. Mr. Loring. I congratulate the gentleman upon his constitution. Mr. Hayes. And on his correct habits. Mr. Loring I undertake to say that members of the House ha\ T e had their health so much impaired by the influence of the bad air here that they have ultimately died from the effects; and many others have had their liims shortened by the injury to their constitutions, caused by the vitiated atmosphere they breathe here. Those of us Avho come here a little late in life cannot endure what some of the younger members do. I myself have been deprived of more than six weeks’ service in this House during the present Congress on account of the evil influences of the air of the House. The Extensions. 913 The scientific men who appeared before the committee — (and through your cour- tesy, sir, I was put in immediate communication with the committee, who kindly elected me an honorary member and listened to the suggestions that I made very earnestly) — these scientific men have agreed that this House can be successfully ven- tilated. Experiment after experiment has been made, each experiment being an improvement on the preceding one. It has been concluded, as the chairman of the committee has stated, that by increasing the influx of air in order that it may corre- spond with the escape of air, these currents which now blow about us like gales of wind, these draughts which in connection with the bad air are injuring our health so much, can be prevented. Those of the Capitol commissioners who are exjierts in ventilation have agreed with an opinion I expressed strongly to the committee, that the foundation of good ventilation is a fire-place. The committee have determined that we shall have fire-places, large open fire-places, in the corner of this Hall. They have agreed, moreover, that the members of this House are entitled to a con- venient, pleasant, well-arranged room to which they can retire for fresh air, and in which they can receive such of their friends as they desire to meet, without being compelled to undergo the pressure of the crowd in the corridors and lobbies of this House. In providing this ample and convenient apartment for the convenience of the House it is found that the introduction of fresh outer air through the south windows of this wing of the Capitol into the body of the House is made possible, and that the ill- effects of the air of the lobby now in existence can be prevented. Air and light are thus provided for all who desire them. The Architect of the House has ascertained that the construction of open windows in the galleries in the places now occupied by the vacant niches in front of the House is entirely practicable, and that the fine cornices of this room now hidden in dark- ness by the defect in the arrangements for lighting it — an architectural defect which ought to be remedied at once — may be brought into view and their beauty, which is hardly surpassed by any similar structure in the world, may be revealed. In this way also can the galleries themselves be supplied with fresh air by lateral ventilation. These are the suggestions in regard to ventilation which I am satisfied, sir, upon careful examination myself and with the assistance of Dr. Billings and Professor Baird, the two special scientists of the commission, will accomplish the object we all have in view. In regard to the seating of the House I ask any man here if he looks upon the plan now in use as perfect. Is it perfect while we have a desk here which is just large enough to be in our way and not large enough to be a convenience to us? Not only is it difficult for a member of this House who is not fortunate enough to occupy a seat upon some one of the passage-ways to gain access to his seat, but when he lias gained it he finds it still more difficult to address the House until he has secured the favor of a seat next a passage-way where he may perchance display those powers of eloquence which God has bestowed upon all of us who have gathered here. [Laugh- ter.] There is not room enough, sir, for the orators of this House if, while they address this assembly, they are compelled to stand behind tire desks assigned them. [Laughter.] I had no idea, in any suggestion I made to the committee or to this House, to deprive gentlemen of all opportunity to write, or to deposit their papers and documents in a safe and convenient receptacle. Now, sir, in order to satisfy myself that this convenience can be secured without the desks we now have, I ordered a chair in the place of the desk I have occupied since I entered this Hall, and I have found it perfectly convenient both for writing and stowage. It was somewhat too large, it is true, for the space allowed it in the present arrangement of desks and chairs, and was not convenient for those on either hand of me; but for myself I found it satisfactory as a writing-desk. I found the drawers in it convenient for my papers; I found it an easy chair to sit in; I found I H. Rep. 64b 58 914 Documentary History of the Capitol. could sit up erect and not be compelled to cramp myself behind my desk. There may be four feet allowed in front of this chair if arranged as proposed, in which every gentleman will find ample room for his physical comfort, a thing which is impossible with the present seating of the House. There is an opportunity for the occupant of the chair to rise conveniently without being hampered by his desk; and even if this chair which has been exhibited to the House is not entirely satisfactory, if it does not seem adapted to the wants of those who are to use it, it may be so modified as to suit the convenience of any member upon the floor. Now I am asked what is to be gained, sir, by this arrangement? Those of us who sit in the rear of the House will be brought thirteen feet nearer to the Speaker’s desk than we are now. We shall have more space than we now have, and we shall have an opportunity to move about without disturbing our associates on this floor. For myself I find neither comfort nor convenience in the present arrangement. It adds greatly to the difficulty of ventilation; it increases the heat of the Hall; it creates a crowd when no crowding is necessary. Substitute for this a chair which is easily approached, which has before it an open and airy space, and which is so compact as not to occupy too much room, and we shall have at once an agreeable and cheerful Hall, and all the conveniences we desire. Now, with regard to the effect of this proposed arrangement upon the ventilation of the House, the chairman of the committee has stated that experts agree that itwill be beneficial. The difficulty now is that the House is crowded with furniture and members. The floor should be relieved of this pressure, and will be relieved by adopting the recommendation of the committee. We shall have, as I have said, abundance of room to write and ample convenience for documents and papers; and in addition to this, if the proposition of the committee is fully carried out, we shall have the additional convenience of tables inside the bar of the House, which can be used for writing and the consultation of books, should it be necessary to occupy more space than the chairs or even the existing desks can give. But, sir, I am not strenuous about the rearrangement of seats at this time at all. If we can have fresh air, good light, fire-places, ventilation, and an ample reception- room, I shall be content for the present, if I can get no more. If, however, we can have the suggestions of the commission and the committee still further carried out in the seating of the House we shall have still more comfort, still more convenience, and still better air. I trust, sir, therefore, that the suggestions of the committee will be adopted by the House. Mr. Ittner obtained the floor. Mr. Wood. T desire to offer an amendment. The Speaker. The gentleman from Missouri [Mr. Ittner] is recognized. Mr. Ittner. This is a practical question about which I do not know but what I am possibly as competent to speak as any man on this floor. If I am not I ought to be at least. Now, with reference to the removal of the desks in this Hall, I consider that an impracticable proposition. I do not conceive that it would need any discussion to impress upon any member of this body that fact, and I am satisfied that if any other proposition is entertained, or any other mode of arranging the seats and desks is resolved upon, it will of necessity prove a failure. I do not presume that there is a single man, if all the talent of the United States were concentrated in the arrange- ment of these desks, who could improve upon the present arrangement. I concur in the views of the gentleman from Virginia [Mr. Harris] and the gentle- man from Texas [Mr. Reagan] that if any mode outside of the present mode is adopted it will be abandoned in a very short time thereafter and the present arrange- ment be again resorted to; but when we come to the question of ventilation, this is a question that deserves serious consideration at the hands of every member upon this floor. The Extensions. 915 I claim, and the pending proposition proves, that the inodes of ventilation that have been resorted to in the past, have utterly failed, and that any artificial modes of ventilating which may be resorted to in the future must perforce likewise prove a failure. The very design and construction of this Hall is an abortion, and you can- not make anything out of it. So far as the ventilation is concerned I claim that the talent does not exist that can benefit or improve upon the present system. You might as well try to put common sense and intelligence into the skull of an idiot as try to improve the ventilation of this Hall. We are here boxed up in a box within a box. We have here between us and day- light. and fresh air three or four walls, partition walls. We have two roofs, or more properly speaking a ceiling and a roof; and I would like to know what mode of ven- tilation you can adopt that will overcome these insurmountable barriers. Fire-places have been spoken of as a means of ventilation, f am in favor of open fire-places, and wherever I go to rent rooms I always give the preference to those having open fire- places. I would have open fire-places and also open windows, so that we can raise the lower sash and lower the upper sash and get in the sunlight and fresh air of heaven. You can never secure that in this concern unless you tear down these par- tition walls and change the plan and construction of the roof, and get your air directly from the outside. This is the only practicable way in which the present room can be utilized and made a success. The gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Loring] in the few remarks he made demonstrated the truth of what I say. He says that you want a good and commo- dious room where you can retire and get fresh air and ventilation. We want the Hall so constructed that we can get fresh air, healthy ventilation, while we are sitting in our seats. I say that, so far as I am concerned, I appreciate the value of the health of the members of this body. I have no personal interest in the question, but I speak to those who are members of the next Congress, and I think it is the duty of those members, in consideration of their own health and that of their compeers, to adopt some means of constructing a new Hall. If possible, get some practical and sensible man as an architect; and if you cannot remodel this Hall for the purposes you desire, then I say add a wing to it that, can be so arranged as to be practical. If it were not that you cannot dispense with your committee and reception rooms, you might tear out. these walls to which I have referred, dispense with these corri- dors and committee-rooms, and by that means you can get the fresh air and bright sunlight of heaven. Leave the desks, but have sufficient space between them so that you will not be compelled to reach your seat by way of the back door, as was remarked by the gentleman from Massachusetts. By that means you will not only get good ventilation and natural light, but you will have the necessary room required for members to deliberate in this Hall. That is all I have to say upon the subject. I shall oppose any movement to change the arrangement of the desks, because the present, arrangement cannot be improved upon, and I shall oppose any movement toward ventilating the Hall, because I say that the experience of the science of ventilation has been exhausted upon this con- cern, and it cannot be improved upon. That is a practical impossibility. I now yield to the gentleman from New York, [Mr. Townsend.] Mr. Townsend, of New York. I rise simply for the purpose of entering my protest against a continuance of the system under which I have suffered for four long years. I have suffered here as a martyr to science. [Laughter.] 1 have suffered here because science was ventilating this Hall without one particle of common sense. [Laughter.] Science has been engaged in lifting the foul atmosphere out of this Hall, but science has not. asked common sense if it were not true that foul air is heavy and would not be lifted. We sit here in this Hall ordinarily in the presence of from two to three thousand people. At other times there are perhaps four thousand in the Hall altogether. On Documentary History of the Capitol. 916 occasions of excitement fully four hundred are on this floor, with from fifteen hun- dred to twenty-five hundred in the galleries, and every breath that comes from those people creates an atmosphere that falls down and settles here in the body of the Hall. To obviate this difficulty scientists are at work at the corners lifting and lifting and lifting, [laughter,] and we are suffering from the heavy and foul air that will not be lifted, but is lurking in the Hall. The foul air remains, and if common-sense men were to come in here without any science — without any experience in ventilating — common sense would open the way to the outside of the building horizontally and cut passages through to the outer windows and let in the air from the bottom of the windows and let it blow over the Hall, but common sense cannot be considered. We shall have high-priced science and an utter want of common sense. I do not care how many scientific men you put upon your commission if you join with it common sense and let God’s atmos- phere into the Hall. If not, you will suffer as I have suffered and as my prede- cessors did. I am going out of this Hall. The ventilation of this Hall is not one of those things that I shall remember with pleasure. [Laughter.] God gave me a good constitution. I would say to the gentleman from Pennsyl- vania [Mr. O’Neill] that I like him have not lost my health here. I am going out and shall cease to suffer. You who are to remain will cease to suffer in this way if somebody will tear down the separating walls and let the winds of heaven blow under the seats and above them. We want a purifying atmosphere that shall sweep along the floor, and if we cannot have that you will have to suffer as we have suffered in times past. I want to say one word further to the gentlemen who are to continue in the serv- ice of their country in this Hall, about the engine of torture that is jiroposed to be substituted for your chairs and desks. I have had it by my seat for one day. I find, whatever it may do fore and aft, that three of these chairs cannot stand where four of the other kind have stood. I protest against the wicked and I would say almost felonious folly of not opening the Hall to the outer windows — a work that may be done for $5,000. Mr. Butler. The ventilation or something else in this. Hall has left me without the power of making myself heard. I do not know that I ought to say anything about this subject. I certainly shall not antagonize the report of the committee, because with that 1 do not mean to have anything to do. I am in no sense responsible for it. In November, 1877, after waiting for some weeks for the majority party in the Hall to move some improvement in ventilation, and having given considerable atten- tion to that matter in the Forty-third Congress, I introduced a resolution to have measures taken to have the Hall ventilated. I had the advantage of plans and spec- ifications and scientific knowledge, so far as scientific knowledge is of any advantage, that had been obtained in a former Congress. I always supposed that my plan was defeated in a former Congress by the unwillingness of the Speaker of that day to give up the Speaker’s room and the reporters to give up the reporters’ room and the unwill- ingness of the members not to have a convenient place to see ladies in the corners. [Laughter. ] A. Member. Or somewhere else. Mr. Butler. But that resolution passed unanimously, and I supposed under parli- amentary usage I should have been put at the head of the committee proposed to bestow labor upon it, but my resolution incautiously provided for a clerk. That was a little crumb of patronage that could not be allowed. [Laughter.] And so I found, contrary to parliamentary rules, a much abler, better, and more experienced man; better in politics, because he had just got up where I left off. [Laughter.] So he was put at the head of the committee, and I was put fourth or fifth. I very seldom, or never, attended the meetings of that committee. Now, there seems to me no justice in this. I do not know what the report con- The Extensions. 917 tains, as I have carefully abstained from listening to it, so that I might not appear to criticise it, but I have a few words to say about the ventilation of this Hall. 1 am certain that members never will dispense with their desks. That has been tried under the most favorable circumstances, and the experiment did not last sixty days. Therefore, we must have the desks in some form. I agree it would be better for us to legislate without them; but that good we will not take. There are too many conveniences, and most of our troubles come from choosing ease rather than good. Therefore that must be laid out of the way. Now, in ordinary times, in any other place under heaven but this, I can make from three thousand to five thousand people hear me. Why is it that I cannot make three hundred people hear me here. Why, sir, in Indiana I have spoken in the oak groves amid the breezes of heaven to five thousand and ten thousand people, and there are men in this Hall who know I made myself heard. Why is it that we rival in a different manner the Areopagus who sat at night, in the darkness, lest they might be influenced by the gestures and magnetism of the speaker. We do better; we sit here and have nothing but the magnetism and the gestures. We never hear anything that the speaker says. This is in consequence of the construction of the Hall; that is, it is broken overhead for the sake of some very ill-looking paintings in the squares, every one of which throws back the voice to the ear of the man who utters it. If you will look, watching as I watch now, you can hear the echo right back to your own ear; and the sound is all broken up. Not only that, but this performance of .squares and indentations overhead increases the general tumult, because echoes and re-echoes verberate and reverberate until a small sound becomes like the roar of the ocean. There is, I am informed, one hall in this Country, not made by a man of science, where fifteen thousand people can hear the ordinary voice of a speaker — Brigham Young’s tabernacle. There are many of you who know about that. How is that made? Why it is substantially as if we cut an egg-shell longitudinally in halves and got under it and spoke from one of the foci. Now, if this Hall could be taken and made perfectly smooth its acoustics would be vastly improved. Get rid of this gin- ger-bread work which makes this Hall look like the saloon of a steamboat. Have something of use. That is my idea. Smooth your walls; give place for your gal- leries, not in the form they are now, but let these corners be rounded over the heads of the people there, and they will hear as well as we. Make everything smooth and clear and clean, so that the sound can take care of itself. Now for ventilation. Everybody will agree that the ventilation of this Hall is fear- ful in its results. There is a larger percentage of dead members in this House than of any other number of men, and yet we are more than the average of men in physi- cal strength, and as I want to say, passing away from this Hall, more than the aver- age of men in knowledge of life and of habit, and more than the average of the same number of men in propriety of conduct and living which gives long life. Now, then, what is the trouble? Why, what do we do? We dig a hole in the ground out into what was once a swamp, for every foot from this declivity to the Potomac was originally a swamp; and we have dug that hole out so as get as near as we can to the middle of that swamp, and we put in powerful pumps and powerful steam-engines to pump that air coming from the swamp up here to breathe. And how many thousand dollars have been spent for that purpose I do not know; not by any science — I want to redeem science from the observation of my friend from New York, [Mr. Townsend,] — I do not believe science did that. Something did it. And here we are pumping up from the lowest part of this city, where none of us would be willing to make our residence, where you cannot get a Congressman to live — we pump that air up by heavy machinery and a great expenditure of steam in here to breathe. We do not give it a chance to get up higher, so as to mix with pure air, before we catch and imprison it and bring it to our lungs. That is the first thing in ventilation. Where 9 1 8 Documentary History of the Capitol. should t lie air come from? I say take the air which will come in from the heaven above us if you will let it. Send up air-ducts as high as the top of this Capitol; open them at the bottom, let cold air flow in, and it will press out the warm air if you give it a place to go out, without any pumping machinery or broiling engineers almost to death. Carry up air-ducts all around your walls. I am content you shall put fire-places below them. There will then be two currents of air, one up the chimney and the other down the air-duct. 1 speak hand ineypertus; I have tried it. 1 have ventilated my own house, in which I live, in the same way. When I was away the scientific men who were putting in heating apparatus came and put in an immense hole at the bottom to let cold air into my house. When I went home and saw it I told my carpenter to put- a strong plank door over it, list it so that it should be perfectly tight, put a strong lock on it, and give me the key; and I have lost the key, and it never has been open since. [Laughter.] 1 Iis idea, as the idea of everybody else seems to be, was that you must take all your air from the bottom of the building. Not at all; you should take it from the top; cold air will press down and drive the warm air out, and you need not have either fan or any other machinery to secure proper ventilation. Put your fire-places around the Hall, make up a little fire in them so as to produce a current that will carry out the warm air, then put your plain air-ducts in from the top of the building, and let your cold air press down so as to feed these fire-places, and you will have neither draught nor bad ventilation. Mr. Townsend, of New York. Will the gentleman allow me to ask him one ques- tion? Mr. Butler. Certainly. Mr. Townsend, of New York. The gentleman and myself agree so nearly in this thing that I wish to call his attention to another matter. It is that foul air is not merely warm air, but it is also heavy air; it does not rise with the warm air. Mr. Butler. I agree with that. The heavy foul air is carbonic acid gas more or less impregnated with hydrogen, so that it almost becomes carbureted hydrogen. But that will be pressed into the fire-places, and will go up the chimney. I have spoken of your means of ventilation. Now, where do you want your Hall? Tear out all of these walls surrounding us here; it can be done. Go out to the corner of the building. Let the two sides of your Hall be the two sides of the building. Open the windows, and let the free air of heaven into your Hall. Redeem yourself from your present condition, from what every man of you knows to be the fact, that the water-closet of this building, out in the corner here, is the best ventilated and the sweetest part, of it. Now extend your Hall out into the corner of the building; go out there and live there all the time. Then you can have this inner room, which can be ventilated but cannot be lighted well and effectively, for reception-rooms and for any other purposes for which it may be needed. Let me say to you that there is another thing; no man ought to live for a large portion of his time in a room where the sunlight of heaven does not come in free and pure. Mr. Bridges. Will the gentleman allow me to ask him a question? Mr. Butler. Certainly. Mr. Bridges. Is the gentleman not aware that by opening the windows on the south of the building the malaria rising from the low marshy grounds south of the Capitol would blow right in upon us here? Mr. Butler. No, I am not, and I will tell you why. I have all my windows in my own house opening in that direction. I studied that question carefully. In the olden time the reason why the part of Capitol Hill where my house is situated was not built upon was because malaria came up from the low ground. The Tiber Creek was then open and flowing, and full of sewage. I would not have lived there at that time upon any account. But since the creek called the Tiber has been closed The Extensions. 919 over and made a sewer it draws off from these low grounds almost all there is which will produce malaria, in the way of stagnant water and other matters producing malaria, and besides, in the summer time, different from what it is in Pennsylvania and different from what it is in Massachusetts, the cool air comes from the south up the Potomac, the draught is up river, and that carries the malaria by and over us, whatever comes up. Fifty years ago there were a great many cases of malarial fever around in this neighborhood. But there has not been one case of chills and fevers indigenous to the neighborhood for the last twenty years. I have gone over that subject with great care in connection with my own purposes, for I wanted to know what I was about, where I was going to live, and perhaps prepare a place for my children. Now, I say that if you will go out to the corner of this building you M ill then get the sunlight and the free air of heaven, and from both directions, first from the top of the building and then from the side, when the condition of the atmosphere will permit an open window and open draught. Mr. Conger. Will the gentleman allow me to ask him a question? Mr. Butler. Certainly. Mr. Conger. I wish to ask the gentleman this question: while air taken from the slope on the west side of the Capitol is so malarial and so impure, why may not some of it come in at the south windows with a proper current from the Potomac to force it in? Mr. Butler. I hear the question, and am very glad of an opportunity to answer it. Some of it will come in, but the difference is between bringing in some of it and bringing in all of it. Now we get nothing else. I am M illing to take a little rum in my water, but I want some water, to drink water part of the time. [Laughter.] That is the difference. I have now said all that I care to say on this subject. I have given you the theory upon which I should proceed in this matter; and as I M ill soon go out of this Hall, in all probability never to return to it as member, I have submitted these views for the benefit of those who may come after me, so that members of Congress may be enabled to retain here that full vigor of constitution, of mind, and of body M'hich they bring with them M'hen they come from their constituents. Mr. Young, of Tennessee, resumed the floor. Mr. Wood. Before the gentleman from Tennessee demands the previous question I desire to call the gentleman’s attention to an amendment which I have offered, and on which I desire a vote, to add the following: Provided , , That nothing herein shall authorize the removal of the desks as now existing. Mr. Young, of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, the comparison instituted by the gentle- man from Massachusetts [Mr. Butler] as to our relative greatness, political or other- wise, is not a matter necessary to be discussed in connection n r ith the proper method of ventilating this Hall; and 1 would pass it by unnoticed but for the reason that justice to the Speaker requires that 1 should reply to it very briefly, though in doing so I shall make no effort to controvert the conclusion evidently fixed in the gentle- man’s own mind that he is better fitted than all the rest of mankind for the duties of any position in which he might be placed. At the time the gentleman from Massachusetts offered the resolution under M'hich this committee M T as created I held in my hand a report in respect to the ventilation, heating, and lighting of this Hall, M'hich I had prepared as chairman of a committee appointed for that purpose, after careful and thorough investigation of about two years. Nom 7 , I am willing to grant that the gentleman would have been better qualified for the discharge of this or any other duty than myself, for he is a very great man, and I “only a poor erring mortal;” but after an investigation of this particular question for so long a time, aided by the most learned gentlemen that I 920 Documentary History of the Capitol. could call to my assistance, including Professor Henry of the Smithsonian Institu- tion, Professor Baird, his successor, two or three Army officers, Professor Billings, of the Army Medical Corps, the latter of whom had visited almost all the houses of assembly in Europe for the express purpose of investigating this very question — after having had the assistance of all these gentlemen, probably it would not be altogether immodest on my part to claim that I was quite as well advised about the proper method of ventilating this Hall as the distinguished gentleman from Massachusetts could have been without giving it any thought or attention at all— nor do I think the Speaker did him so very great a wrong in not naming him as chairman of the committee. The Speaker. The Chair desires to ask the gentleman from Tennessee whether he did not do all that under the authority of the House? Mr. Young, of Tennessee. Certainly; in pursuance of a resolution of this House adopted more than a year before. Further, if the gentleman had done us the honor to meet with the committee after its appointment by the Speaker, he should have been its chairman if the other members had chosen to select him, for the very first time we met I submitted that question to the members of the committee who were present, and declared that the gentleman from Massachusetts, if he did us the honor to attend, should, so far as I was concerned, lie chairman. I believe my colleagues on the committee will bear me out in this statement. Now, the gentleman’s idea of ventilation is as faulty as his conception of parlia- mentary propriety. I will not undertake to enter into a discussion of all the nice distinctions connected with the question of ventilating this or any other hall, nor will I undertake to tell the House the dangers resulting from lateral ventilation, the imperfections in downward ventilation, or the advantages that flow from upward ventilation, for upon all these questions there is the widest divergence of opinion among scientists, and upon each one of them a volume might be written. But I will say that one of the most learned scientists of this country — a gentleman who has devoted long years to the investigation of this very subject, who has visited Europe, examining the method of ventilation in the English House of Parliament, as well as that adopted in similar buildings at Berlin, Paris, and elsewhere in the Old World, gave us upon his return the result of his investigation. Our recommendations are in some measure based upon his conclusions. He declared to us, and the proposi- tion will be apparent to any one who will reflect a moment, that in all houses where there are galleries occupied by large numbers of people the downward system of ven- tilation can never lie safely adopted. Why? Because the air we breathe coining from the roof and being first breathed by a larger number of persons than those who occupy the floor, must necessarily be impure before it can reach us. In this build- ing when there are three hundred persons who occupy the floor and two thousand in the galleries, it will require only a moment’s reflection to demonstrate how dan- gerous must be that system of ventilation which brings the air we breathe through two thousand people who are also breathing it every moment. Some gentlemen who have discussed the question this morning evidently do not (if they will allow me to say so) understand the matter sufficiently well to discuss it very intelligently. They neither understand the question of ventilation nor do they comprehend the architectural structure of this Hall. Gentlemen who talk about removing these interior walls in order that we may get the atmosphere from the outer world do not know that if this were done the building could not stand fora single hour. By reason of its peculiar architecture, it is impossible to remove these inner walls without destroying the whole building. When I first undertook the investigation of this question I was of the same opinion now expressed, as I under- stand them by the gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Butler] and the gentleman from Missouri, [Mr. Ittner,] that the only perfect system of ventilation which can be adopted for this Hall would be the removal of these inside walls so as to have The Extensions. 921 access to the outside air and sunshine. But that cannot be accomplished if we can rely upon the judgment of every architect who has examined the question. They have all declared to us that if the inside walls are removed the whole building will be practically destroyed. The nearest we can come to meeting the conditions deemed necessary by these gentlemen is to enlarge the opening in the wall immedi- ately in the rear of the Speaker’s stand and also either remove the middle wall or enlarge the openings in it, making an open lobby so that on one side at least we will get the outside sunshine and fresh air. There is no possible way, if we can rely on the statement of the architects who have examined this question, by which fresh air can be brought into the Hall, other than by the method in which it is now brought, except by the change we suggest back of the Speaker’s stand. One word in reference to the removal of the desks, and then I am jierfectly willing the House should determine that question on the amendment offered by the gentle- man from New York, [Mr. Wood.] I do not insist on it so far as I am personally concerned. My personal convenience, outside of that which attaches to a seat so far from the Speaker’s chair, would make me desire the desks to remain; but a careful examination of the subject has satisfied me they are really an obstruction to the transaction of public business. I have illustrated some of the inconveniences to which gentlemen are subjected who are so unfortunate as to have the bad location I have in the Hall since I have been addressing the House this morning, for I have occupied the seats of nearly a dozen members simply because I cannot speak from my own. Every time I have taken the floor in this discussion I have had to change my position and impose upon the good nature of some other member. To meet inconveniences of this kind, to accommodate gentlemen who occupy seats so remote from the Speaker’s stand that they cannot be heard in different quarters of the House, or hear others, we provide that small tables may be disposed, six or eight in number, about the middle of the rows of seats, where gentlemen may stand who desire to address the House. This drawing I have in my hand shows where these tables will be located, about six or eight in different parts of the Hall, so that gentlemen who are now prevented by the location of their seats from being heard can go to one of these tables and stand while speaking. There was something said by the gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Butler] and other gentlemen about the locality the atmosphere came from which we breathe. That is one of the objections we propose to meet in these recommendations. It is proposed that a tower be built at the foot of the second terrace, twenty feet high, and that the air duct through which the fresh air comes into the Hall shall connect with the base of this tower, so that the atmosphere we breathe shall come from an altitude twenty feet above the second terrace west of the Hall. I now yield to the gentleman from New York to call for a vote on his amendment. Mr. Wood. I will not protract the debate, but ask for a vote on my amendment. The Clerk read as follows: Provided,, That nothing herein shall authorize the removal of the desks as now placed. Mr. Clymer. I have an amendment, to put in the name of Mr. Abram S. Hewitt. The Speaker. The first vote will be taken on the amendment of the gentleman from New York. The House divided; and there were — ayes 102, noes 53. Mr. Young, of Tennessee. I do not ask for a further count. So the amendment was agreed to. The question recurred on Mr. Clymer’s amendment, adding the name of Abram S. Hewitt. The amendment was agreed to. Mr. Young, of Tennessee. I have a further amendment I desire to offer 922 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Robbins. Now let the resolutions be read as they have been amended. The Clerk read as follows: Resolved, That Professor Spencer F. Baird, of the Smithsonian Institution; Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas L. Casey, of the Corps of Army Engineers; Mr. Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol; Mr. F. Schumann, civil engineer, Treasury Department; Professor John S. Billings, surgeon United States Army; Abram S. Hewitt, Benjamin F. Butler, G. B. Loring, and Frank Jones, be, and they are hereby, constituted an advisory board, without additional pay or compensation, with power and authority to make and carry out, through the Architect of the Capitol Extension, during the approach- ing recess of Congress, all the changes and alterations in the heating, lighting, and ventilating the Hall of the House of Representatives, that are set out and recommended in the report submitted by them and adopted by the select committee appointed by resolution of the House to inquire’ into the present method of heating, lighting, and ventilating the Hall of the House of Representatives; and the said board may employ a clerk during the time they are engaged in the performance of such work: Provided , That nothing herein shall authorize the removal of the desks as now placed. Andie it further resolved, That the Architect of the Capitol extension and the Electrician of the House be, and they are hereby, authorized and empowered to purchase two dynamo-electric machines and their necessary attachments for lighting the Hall of the House of Representatives, providing they shall not cost a sum exceeding $2,500. Mr. Conger. I understood a name was to he added. The Speaker. It was added. Mr. Conger. I do not know why it was inserted first. The Speaker. The Chair does not know either. Mr. Clymer. As I offered the amendment I had no desire to place Mr. Hewitt’s name at the head of the commission. Mr. Conger. As there is a clerk to be appointed, and there must necessarily be a democrat at the head of it, I have no objection. [Laughter.] Mr. Clymer. It was not my intention as the mover of the amendment that Mr. Hewitt’s name should be placed in that position. Mr. Conger. So I understood. The Speaker. The Chair is unable to answer, as he took no interest in the matter. Mr. Calkins. I move the name of Benjamin F. Butler be added. The Speaker. The Chair hears no objection. The Chair will say further, as allu- sion has been made this morning to the matter, that in appointing the committee under the resolution offered by the gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Butler] him- self, the Chair selected the chairman of the committee after due reflection, not from any political consideration whatever. The gentleman from Tennessee [Mr. Young] hail given this subject, by the direction of the House, long and arduous attention, and he was appointed by the Chair with his eyes open, knowing what he was doing. Mr. Conger. In this case the appointment is by the resolution. The Speaker. The Chair has nothing to do with this. Mr. Conger. By some means a member of this House is now appointed chairman. Mr. Fort. Has the name of Mr. Butler been added? The Speaker. If there be no objection, the name of Benjamin F. Butler will be added. There was no objection. Mr. Conger. Following the other precedent, the name of Mr. Butler should be added at the top of the list. I move that, following the former precedent, his name be placed at the front end of the commission. Mr. Clymer. Probably the gentleman from Michigan [Mr Conger] would like to be put on the commission and have his name also put in advance of the others. I suggest that the name of the gentleman from Michigan be added. The Speaker. The Chair hears no objection. Mr. Conger. I do not desire to be added to the commission. I am not so much of a partisan that I cannot recognize the eternal fitness of things. Mr. Fort. I desire to ask the gentleman from Tennessee a question. Is he informed that the wall of this Chamber cannot be removed without endangering the building? The Extensions. 923 Mr. Young, of Tennessee. I had reference to the wall just beyond that. Mr. Fort. I have conversed with two or three architects, one of whom was Mr. J. B. Mullet, who was the architect of the new State Department, and I was informed distinctly by him that it could be removed without a particle of trouble and at a very small expense, and that the building would be as firm and the roof supported as well as it is now. Mr. Ittner. I desire to make this suggestion to the chairman of the committee, that if the gentleman who traveled all over this country and Europe investigating this question of the ventilation of public buildings is not in the lunatic asylum he had better be placed on this commission also. Mr. Cox, of New York. 1 move to add the name of Mr. Jones, of New Hampshire. Mr. HaAe. I suggest that the name of Dr. Loring, who has given great attention to this matter, be added to this commission. The Speaker. It is moved that the name of the gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Loring] be added. The Chair hears no objection. The gentleman from New York suggests that the name of the gentleman from New Hampshire [Mr. Jones] be added. The Chair hears no objection. Mr. Ittner. In the remark I made a moment ago I do not desire to be considered as having reflected upon the gentleman whom I had in my mind’s eye when I spoke. I wish to convey the idea that any man who had traveled all over this country and Europe investigating the proper modes of heating and ventilating halls of this descrip- tion, if not now in a lunatic asylum ought to be there. Mr. Speaker. He is on the committee. [Great laughter.] Mr. Conger. I think that is a fair equivalent of the other place. Mr. Bacon. I offer the amendment, which 1 send to the desk. The Clerk read as follows: After the words “desks as now placed” insert “or the substitution of others more convenient in their stead.” The amendment was not agreed to. Mr. Atkins. I suggest to my colleague, t]jie chairman of the committee, that he introduce a joint resolution making the appropriation contemplated in his resolution. Mr. Young, of Tennessee. I have an amendmend here which I desire to offer. I am informed by the Architect of the Capitol and the Electrician that the recom- mendation made in this amendment will, if carried out, save the Government in four or live years ten or fifteen thousand dollars. It is for the purpose of providing two dynamo-electric machines for lighting the Hall. The Clerk read the amendment. Mr. Atkins. I again call the attention of my colleague to my suggestion in regard to the modification of his resolution. Mr. Young, of Tennessee. I have made arrangements in the Senate in regard to it. Mr. Atkins. Those arrangements do not amount to anything. Mr. Y oung, of Tennessee. I have already arranged for the apjnropriation being made in the sundry civil bill. Mr. Atkins. I would ask my colleague to modify his resolution. Mr. Ittner. Mr. Speaker, I was unfortunate in my explanation, and I desire to cor- rect myself. I do not desire to be understood as reflecting upon the honorable chairman of the committee having this hill in charge, and who has also given this subject much thought and study. What I meant to say was, that an)' man who had devoted two years to the close consideration of an impractical proposition and not be driven to insanity must be endowed with an unusual strong mental organization. Mr. Young, of Tennessee. From the discussion upon the subject this morning I should judge that the investigation of the subject has a strong tendency to lunacy. I now call the previous question on the resolution. The Speaker. The Chair desires to suggest to the gentleman from Tennessee that 924 Documentary History of the Capitol. the first resolution is a House resolution, and the second resolution will be a joint resolution. Mr. Young, of Tennessee. Then I will strike out the second resolution, and I will get the Senate to insert the provision of it in the sundry civil bill. Mr. Conger. I should like to know what electric light the gentleman suggests. Mr. Young, of Tennessee. I do not know; it is the suggestion of the Architect of the Capitol. The Speaker. The Chair suggests to the gentleman from Tennessee that he allow his first resolution to be passed. He can then submit a joint resolution covering the second of these resolutions. Mr. Young, of Tennessee. That is what I propose to do. The question was taken; and the resolutions, as modified, were agreed to. Mr. Young, of Tennessee, moved to reconsider the vote by which the resolutions were adopted; and also moved that the motion to reconsider be laid on the table. The latter motion was agreed to. [From the "Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1879. (Stats, at Large, v. 20, 391.)] Capitol extension: For work on the Capitol, and for general repairs thereof, fifty thousand dollars: Provided, That one thousand five hundred dollars of this amount may be used for the purchase of file-cases, or boxes for the file room of the Clerk’s office of the House of Representatives. * * * [From the ‘‘Act making appropriations for the legislative, executive, and judicial expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty, and for other purposes,” approved June 21, 1879. (Stats, at Large, v. 21, 26.)] To enable the Joint Committee on the Library to purchase works of art, five thousand dollars. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, Oct. 1, 1879. (46 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 2, pp. 321-3.)] In accordance with plans recommended by the board having in charge the venti- lation of the House of Representatives, and approved by Congress by act passed March 3, 1879, the Speaker’s, Sergeant-at-Arms’ , and reporters’ rooms at the south of the hall of the House of Representatives have been converted into one room, and by means of large openings into their north wall have been thrown open to the cor- ridor between them and the hall, thus making a large, light, and airy retiring-room for members. The blank doorways in the south wall of the gallery have been opened, and the rooms and water-closet in that portion of the building arranged to suit this modification. To provide accommodations for the committee and the officers thus dispossessed, several rooms under the old hall of Representatives have been fitted up, and the folding department, formerly occupying these rooms, trans- ferred to the cellar below. * * * LIGHTING THE CAPITOL AND GROUNDS. It will be seen by the accompanying report of Assistant Engineer J. FI. Rogers, electrician of the Capitol, that by means of the dynamo-electric machines recently put in operation the voltaic battery, formerly used for lighting the hall of the House of Representatives and the rotunda, has been superseded. The Extensions. 925 It gives me pleasure to state that Mr. Rogers has made some advances in his experiments towards perfecting a constant, steady, and desired light. Owing to the reduction of the estimates for gas-lighting and to the fact that an additional session of Congress was called, that was not provided for in the estimates for gas, there remains unpaid to the gas company the amount of $2,898.24. Mr. Rogers in his report says: As required by the act passed March 3, 1879, dynamo-electric machines have been purchased, viz: Three machines, together with the necessary attachments, including the fitting up of steam-engines, for the sum appropriated. Two of these machines are set in the basement of the south wing, and one about to be placed in the base- ment of the north wing. By use of these it has been demonstrated that the gas-jets in the two halls and rotunda can be ignited, thus throwing out of use the voltaic battery, which has been run heretofore at a heavy annual expense. Experiments are now being made with a view to lighting the hall of the House of Representatives by the electric light. We have succeeded in overcoming the diffi- culties of the staglamite, that of the crator, and also that of preserving equidistance of the electrodes, and now only a slight flickering remains, which we hope soon to overcome. Such is the sensibility of the eye to the flickering rays of light that we hesitate to apply the electric lights in the halls of legislation in its present comparatively imper- fect state. [House proceedings of May 27, 1880: Congressional Record, 46 — 2, p. 3892.] The House, as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1881 — The Clerk read as follows: Public buildings: Capitol extension: For work on the Capitol, and for general repairs thereof, $50,000. Improving Capitol grounds: For continuing the work on the Capitol grounds, $60,000. Lighting the Capitol and grounds: For lighting Capitol and grounds about the same, including Botanic Garden and Senate stable Mr. Conger ( interrupting the Clerk) . Are all these appropriations under the head of “public buildings” to be read before amendments are offered? I understand that the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Klotz] has an amendment. Mr. Smith of New Jersey. I wish to take an appeal from the decision of the Chair. The Chairman. The Chair thinks the gentleman from New Jersey is too late, although he has a disposition to accommodate him. Mr. Klotz. I ask unanimous consent to go back. Mr. Robertson. I will state to the Chair that the gentleman from New Jersey was about to take an appeal when the Clerk went on with the reading of the bill, and being a modest man he took, his seat. I did not know The Chairman. If the gentleman makes the statement that lie intended to take an appeal the Chair will recognize him. Mr. Blount. The House has some right in the matter. The Clerk has gone on reading for several paragraphs, and it is now too late to raise an appeal on a matter which has been passed over. The Chairman. If there be no objection the Chair will allow the gentleman from New Jersey to take an appeal from the decision of the Chair in reference to the matter to which he refers. Is there objection to allowing the gentleman to take an appeal ? Mr. Blount. Yes; I object. Mr. Berry. I move that the committee rise. The committee divided; and there were — ayes 51, noes 63. So the committee refused to rise. 926 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Klotz. I rise for the purpose of offering the following amendment: Iu line 7ti7. after the word "dollars,” insert ‘‘and for passenger elevator in south wing of the Capi- tol as may be located by the Speaker and Architect of the Capitol, $7,000.” Mr. Blount. We have passed that. Mr. Conger. No; we did not pass it, for I called the attention of the Chair when the Clerk was reading it. Mr. Blount. I ask the amendment be again read. The amendment was again read. Mr. Klotz. 1 hope the gentleman from Georgia will not insist on his objection to that amendment. Mr. Blount. 1 will make no objection to that. Mr. McMillin. I rise to a point of order. [Cries of “Too late!”] My point of order is that it changes the law and does not retrench expenditure. The Chairman. The Chair overrules the point of order. Mr. Klotz’s amendment was adopted. [House proceedings of May 28, 1880: Congressional Record, 46 — 2, p. 3945.] The House, as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1881 — Mr. Atkins. I am instructed unanimously by the Committee on Appropriations to move as an amendment a proviso to the amendment which has been adopted, offered by the gentleman from Pennsylvania, [Mr. Klotz.] The amendment of Mr. Klotz was as follows: For a passenger-elevator in the south wing of the Capitol, as may be located by the Speaker and the Architect of the Capitol, 17,000. The amendment of Mr. Atkins was to add the following: Provided, That the location of such elevator shall not in any way interfere with the use or occupa- tion of. or communication between, any of the offices or committee-rooms of the House. Mr. Conger. I think we can leave that to the Speaker of the House. The amendment was agreed to; upon a division — ayes 54, noes 48. Mr. Klotz. I give notice that I shall call for a separate vote on this amendment in the House. [House proceedings of May 31, 1880: Congressional Record, 46 — 2, p. 3981.] The House having under consideration the amendments to the sundry civil bill for 1881, reported from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union — The next amendment on which a separate vote was. demanded was as follows: Insert after the word "dollars,” in line 767, the following: "For a passenger elevator in the south wing of the Capitol, as may be located by the Speaker and the Architect of the Capitol, $7,000: Provided, That the location of such elevator shall not in anyway interfere with the use, or occupation of, or communication between any of the offices or committee- rooms of the House.” Mr. Klotz. Mr. Speaker, I reserved the right to call for the yeas and nays on the proviso to that amendment in the House, and I demand therefore a separate vote upon the provision which has been added to the original amendment. I want to explain the reason of this, and I would like to ask if I have the right to do so? The Speaker pro tempore. The gentleman cannot at this time. Mr. Klotz. If this provision is inserted in that amendment it will kill the bill. The Speaker pro tempore. Debate is not in order at this time. Mr. Blackburn. I rise to a parliamentary inquiry. The Speaker pro tempore. The gentleman will state it. The Extensions. 927 Mr. Blackburn. The question pending, as I understand it, before the House is upon the amendment to the clause of the bill which provides for the erection of an elevator in the House wing of the Capitol, which shall not interfere with the use or occupation of any of the rooms of the House. Is that the question pending? The Speaker pro tempore. The gentleman from Kentucky is in error. The House is voting upon a proposition which comes from the Committee of the Whole and ,which is not subject to a division. Mr. Blackburn. Then I ask this further question: whether it is not a vote upon a proposition to put an elevator in this wing of the Capitol, with the condition coupled that the elevator shall not interfere with the use, or occupation, or communication between any of the committee-rooms or offices of this House? The Speaker pro tempore. For the benefit of the gentleman from Kentucky and of the House the Chair will cause the amendment to be read. Mr. Blackburn. The vote, as I understand, is upon the provision as an entirety. The Speaker pro tempore. It is. Mr. Klotz. I rise to a parliamentary inquiry. I see that is the only way to get a chance to state the question to the House. Now', I wish to ask the Speaker if the effect of this amendment is not to kill the bill? Mr. Blackburn. No. •Mr. Klotz. I asked the Speaker. [Laughter.] Mr. Atkins. I object to debate. Mr. Clymer. My colleague [Mr. Klotz] has the right to ask a parliamentary question. Mr. Atkins. But not to make a speech. Mr. Klotz. I learned from the gallant gentleman from Kentucky [Mr. Black- burn] how to get this before the House, and I desire to exercise my right. The Speaker pro tempore, (Mr. McMillin. ) The gentleman from Pennsylvania shall have every right to which he is entitled. The Chair will state the vote is on the amendment as an entirety as reported from the Committee of the Whole. What effect its adoption will have on the bill or on the elevator to be constructed the House will have to judge. Mr. Klotz. I desire to ask another question. If the amendment offered by the gentleman from Tennessee [Mr. Atkins] be adopted, will it not virtually kill the proposition? The Speaker pro tempore. That is not a matter of which the Chair can judge. Mr. Klotz. I wdsh to ask the Speaker — [cries of “Vote!” “Vote!”] I am bound to have my say, and gentlemen may as well keep still first as last. [Laughter.] I wish to ask the Speaker if the elevator is not to go through a committee-room or an office, whether the effect of that is not to kill the proposition? The Speaker pro tempore. With that the Chair has nothing to do. The question is the amendment. Mr. Bayne. I rise to make a parliamentary inquiry. Mr. Klotz. Mr. Speaker, I ask for a division of the propositions in the amendment. The Speaker pro tempore. The gentlemen from Pennsylvania [Mr. Bayne] is recognized. Mr. Bay'ne. I wish to say that my colleague [Mr. Klotz] reserved the right to call for a separate vote on the proviso which w'as an amendment to his amendment. Has he not a right to demand a separate vote on that proviso? The Speaker pro tempore. No such reservation has been reported to the Chair. Mr. Bayne. I distinctly remember my colleague made such a reservation at the time, and I suppose it forms a part of the Record. [Cries of “Regular order!”] Mr. Klotz. The Record shows that I reserved the right to demand a separate vote on that proviso. The Speaker pro tempore. No such condition has been reported to the Chair. The 928 .Documentary History of the Capitol. regular order is demanded, and the question is on the amendment reported by the Committee of the Whole. The question being taken, the Speaker pro tempore stated that the ayes had it, and the amendment was agreed to. Mr. Blackburn. I move to reconsider the vote by which the amendment was agreed to; and also move that the motion to reconsider be laid on the table. The Speaker pro tempore. The Chair will inform the gentleman from Kentucky that it is usual to reserve the motion to reconsider until all the amendments have been disposed of. Mr. Blackburn. Very well; I withdraw the motion for the present. Mr. Klotz. I call for the yeas and nays on the amendment. I want to show the Chair and the House that it appears from the Record I reserved the right to demand a separate vote on the proviso. The Speaker pro tempore. The gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Klotz] was on the floor at the time the Chair announced the result of the vote. He now says he demanded the yeas and nays. The Chair will put the question on ordering the yeas and nays. The question was taken; and there were ayes 10; not a sufficient number. So the yeas and nays were not ordered, and the amendment was not agreed to. [Senate proceedings of June 8, 1880: Congressional Record, 46 — 2, p. 4284.] The Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, having under consideration the amend- ments of the Committee on Appropriations to the sundry civil bill for 1881 — The next amendment was, under the head of “public buildings,” in line 959, after the word “House,” to insert “nor with the lighting or ventilation thereof;” so as to make the clause read: Capitol extension: For work on the Capitol, and for general repairs thereof, $50,000; and for passen- ger-elevator in south wing of the Capitol, as may be located by the Speaker and the Architect of the Capitol, $7,000: Provided , That the location of such elevator shall not in any wise interfere with the use or occupation of or communication between any of the offices or committee-rooms of the House, nor with the lighting or ventilation thereof. Mr. Beck. 1 desire to say that the amendment was inserted at the request of the Committee on Appropriations of the House, as shown by a letter from the chair- man, which I ask may be made part of the Record. We did not desire to inter- fere with their action, and inserted it at the request of the chairman in charge of the bill. The Presiding Officer, (Mr. Wallace in the chair. ) Does the Senator desire to have the letter read? Mr. Beck. I do not. I merely want it to go into the Record to show that this was done at the request of the House committee. The letter referred to is as follows: Committee on Appropriations, House of Representatives, Washington, D. C., June 8, 1880. Dear Sir: The Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives instruct me to express to you the hope that, the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate will so amend the clause providing for the construction of an elevator in the south wing of the Capitol by adding, after the word “House,” in line 959, the fol- lowing words: “nor with the lighting or ventilation thereof, or of any corridor. ” The purpose of such an amendment is manifest. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, .T. D. C. Atkins, Chairman Committee on Appropriations, Hon. James B. Beck. House of Representatives. The amendment was agreed to. The Extensions. 929 [From the “Act making appropriations for the sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-one, and for other purposes,” approved June 1(1, 1880. (Stats, at Large, v. 21, 272,281.)] Capitol extension: For work on the Capitol, and for general repairs thereof, fifty thousand dollars; and for passenger-elevator in south wing of the Capitol, as may be located by the Speaker and the Architect of the Capitol, seven thousand dollars: Provided , That the location of such elevator shall not in any wise interfere with the use or occupation of or communication between any of the offices or committee rooms of the House, nor with the lighting or ventilation thereof, or of any corridor. To enable the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress to purchase works of art, ten thousand dollars. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, Oct. 1, 1880. (46 — 3, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 2, p. 437.)] The improvements to the Hall of Representatives, which were ordered by the commission, of which the Hon. Abraham S. Hewitt is chairman, have been com- pleted. These consist mainly in connecting the rooms at the south of the Hall with the lobby, by which a large retiring room for members was made; constructing air- duct and shaft, opening some distance from the building on the west front, so as to prevent the introduction of air into the Hall charged with coal-gas from chimneys, and other impurities from the building, as has been the case formerly; and by greatly increasing the openings in the floor of the Hall, for the admission of fresh air. These changes have added largely to the comfort of the occupants of the Hall, and have afforded an ample supply of pure air for respiration. [House proceedings of Dec. 8, 1880: Congressional Record, 46 — 3, p. 38.] ELEVATOR IN SOUTH WING OF CAPITOL. Mr. Hawk. I ask unanimous consent to submit the resolution which I send to the desk. The Clerk read as follows: Resolved, That the Architect of the Capitol be, and he is hereby, instructed to report to the House with as little delay as possible the reasons for a failure to build the elevator for which appropriation was made at the late session of Congress. Resolved, That the Committee on Public Buildings proceed at once under direction of the Architect to consider a location for' an elevator in the south end of the Capitol building, and without unrea- sonable delay said Committee on Public Buildings be instructed to cause such elevator to be built. The Speaker. The Chair thinks it but just to say that the omission to make a report on this subject is his fault. The report is prepared in substance, but the Chair has not had time to have it written out in full. In this report the Speaker of the House and the Architect of the Capitol give their reasons why they have not executed the law referred to in the resolution. Mr. Hawk. I think there can be no objection to letting the resolution go to the proper committee. Mr. Atkins. It, should go to the committee under the rule. The Speaker. The resolution is an admonition to the Speaker of the House and the Architect of the Capitol that the House would like to hear from them on the subject of the elevator. The report will be made to-morrow morning and the resolution meanwhile may lie over. Mr. Hawk. Very well. H. Rep. 646 59 930 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House proceedings of Dec. 10, 1880: Congressional Record, 46 — 3, p. 75.] ELEVATOR IN SOUTH WING OF CAPITOL. The Speaker laid before the House a communication; which was read, as follows: To the House of Representatives: By the act approved June 16, 1880, the undersigned were required to locate and construct a passenger elevator in the south wing of the Capitol. The conditions imposed by fhe law rendered the location and construction of said elevator imprac- ticable. The law reads “that the location of said elevator shall not in any wise interfere with the use or occupation of, or communication between, any of the offices or committee-rooms of the House, or with the light or ventilation thereof, nor of any corridor.” While it was practicable to locate and construct an elevator so that it would not seriously interfere with the rooms or corridors, it was not possible to locate and construct one so that it would not in any wise obstruct or interfere with the light or ventilation of any of the offices, committee-rooms, or corridors of the House. In consideration of the above they were unable to take any steps in the matter. They recognize the necessity for an elevator, for the convenience of public business, in the south wing of the Capitol, and recommend further legislation in relation to the same. The appropriation for this purpose might be allowed to remain available, in order that the elevator may be constructed during the present fiscal year. Saji. J. Randall, Speaker. Edward Clark, Architect United States Capitol. Washington, D. C., December 10, 1880. Mr. Conger. This communication is a privileged, report, I presume? The Speaker. The Chair would so suppose, as it relates to the convenience of the House. Mr. Conger. Has any disposition been made of it? The Speaker. Nothing has been done with it. The Chair submitted it for the action of the House. Mr. Atkins. I suggest that the communication be referred to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. Mr. Conger. I do not see why that should be done. If we can have no elevator here until some change can be made in the building or until further legislation can be had , then of course it is useless to press this matter now. But it seems to me that the suggestions which were made to the Speaker the other day should be laid before the Architect for his consideration. I should be very glad if this question could be further examined and another report made upon it. The Speaker. The Chair can say that his own opinion agreed with that of the Architect as to where this elevator should be; but, as we understood the amendment adopted in the Senate, it precluded the possibility of locating the elevator where we supposed it should be. This location, the Chair will state, was in the corridor between the two rooms of the Appropriations Committee. But, in consideration of the wording of the law and the wishes of the committee on the subject, no action was taken. Mr. Conger. Was it supposed that it would interfere with the views of the Senate or with any law if the elevator should be placed in the corner of the small room this side of the corridor? The Speaker. The debate in the Senate seemed to indicate that the amendment was put in at the request of the Committee on Appropriations. Mr. Atkins. I suppose that is true. Mr. Conger. I move that, the matter partially reported upon be recommitted for further consideration. The Speaker. Recommitted to whom? The Extensions. 931 Mr. Conger. To the same persons who have made this report. I suggest that, taking this as a partial report, they make some further examination and recom- mendation. The Speaker. The gentleman might offer a resolution that the persons authorized by law to locate this elevator and superintend its construction be requested to make further investigation and report to the House their opinion as to where it should be located. Mr. Reagan. If that is not acted on so as to revive the committee, in view of the report just made, would it not be proper to refer so much to the Committee on Appropriations as perpetuates the item for another year? The Speaker. That part might be referred to the Committee on Appropriations. Mr. Conger. In the opinion of a good many members of the House, and probably without objection from anybody, the elevator might be so constructed as to come up through the small room this side of the corridor, now set apart for the Committee on Appropriations. It perhaps would take up not more than a quarter of that room, leaving sufficient private room for the Committee on Appropriations, and not inter- fere with any passage or corridor or light in any part of the building. Mr. Atkins. Does the gentleman suggest it be inclosed and cut off from the building? Mr. Conger. Yes; that it be inclosed and cut off from the other part of the room. Mr. Atkins. That might be done. Mr. Conger. Those who examined the subject think that an elevator could be placed there in a suitable position coming right up through the corner of the room now appropriated to the Committee on Appropriations. Mr. Atkins. That would do if we are to have an elevator, but I myself do not see any necessity for going to any such an expense; not at all, sir. Mr. Conger. I did not hear the latter remark of the gentleman from Tennessee. Mr. Atkins. I said, Mr. Speaker, I do not myself see any necessity for going to the expense of having an elevator. Mr. Conger. Why, sir, there are gentlemen, members of this House, who are brought in here on the shoulders of their fellow-members, by the hands of their fellow-members or by men employed for that purpose, members who without assist- ance cannot ascend the stairs. If all the members in the House were young and vigorous like my friend from Tennessee and myself, there would be no need of an elevator. [Laughter. ] Mr. Atkins. That is so; I can help myself. Mr. Conger. I submit, sir, there are reasons why there should be an elevator for the accommodation of infirm members of this House. We now see those members brought up from the outside by fellow-members, and I say it is a shame that while the Senate has an elevator for the ease and comfort of luxurious Senators, infirm and maimed members of this House are denied the ordinary means of access to the floor of this hall. Mr. Robeson. I can give two hundred and fifty reasons why we should have an elevator. Mr. Hawk. Mr. Speaker, I introduced the other day resolutions on this subject. Members of the House, of course, must know I am peculiarly interested in the erec- tion of such an elevator, and I introduced those resolutions for the purpose of calling attention to the fact that while there has been an appropriation made for the pur- pose, nevertheless nothing has been done. I wish to have pushed forward as rapidly as possible the construction of the work. Now, in order that this enterprise may be accomplished — and I certainly believe it is necessary or I would not advocate it for a moment — believing, as I do, it is a necessary improvement in this building, I shall move the report be recommitted, with instructions to further consider the propriety of erecting the elevator, and that steps be taken to have the elevator constructed with as little delay as possible. 932 Documentary History of the Capitol. The Speaker. To what committee does the gentleman wish these instructions to go? Mr. Hawk. To the same committee from which the report now comes. The Speaker. That is, to the gentlemen who are authorized by law? Mr. Hawk. I am not particular about that, Mr. Speaker. Let it go to the Com- mittee on Public Buildings and Grounds if it be agreeable to the Speaker, and let that committee be instructed to provide under the Architect of the Capitol for the construction of an elevator. Mr. McMillin. What instructions do I understand the gentleman proposes to give? Mr. Hawk. That this report be recommitted to the Committee on Public Build- ings and Grounds with instructions to such committee to further consider the pro- priety of erecting an elevator, with leave to report to this House by bill or otherwise. I wish t.o say in this connection that this elevator, it seems to me, should be erected for the purpose of accommodating citizens visiting the Capitol. Many aged and infirm persons visit the Capitol of the country, and it is difficult for them to ascend to the second or third stairs of this building. This elevator should be erected for their accommodation as well as for the accommodation of members of this House. Mr. Reagan. In order to meet the views of the gentleman from Illinois, I propose to offer the following as a substitute: Resolved, That the report of the persons charged with the duty of locating and constructing and contracting for the construction of an elevator in the south wing of the Capitol be recommitted to said persons, with instructions to see what further can be done to secure the construction of such an elevator. I offer that, in view of the remarks made by the gentleman from Michigan, and seemingly concurred in by the gentleman from Tennessee, that an elevator should be constructed, so the committee may make further inquiry to see whether the difficul- ties presented in the report cannot be overcome. Mr. Atkins. I am not myself sure whether if constructed as provided for under the suggestion of the gentleman from Michigan it would destroy that room as a committee-room or not. I do not know but what the noise of the elevator would prevent its use as a deliberation room. I can tell nothing about that. It is not a matter, however, which I expect to have much interest in. [Laughter.] That is one thing sure, for it cannot be constructed before the 4th of March next. Mr. Hawk. If the location of the elevator in that part of the building would make such noise as to destroy the deliberations of the committee, then the committee might find some other room. The improvement is certainly needed, and should be made at once. Mr. McMillin. According to the report of the committee there can be no elevator constructed there. If constructed, it has to be done in pursuance of the statute. And the committee report the said statute is not broad enough to authorize the con- struction of an elevator in this end of the Capitol. Mr. Hawk. The gentleman from Tennessee seems to forget that it is suggested the elevator is to be so erected as to not interfere with the light or ventilation of the Hall or any of the committee-rooms. Mr. McMillin. And the committee which have had this matter in charge report that it is impossible to erect the elevator without doing so. The Speaker. It was found on examination by the Architect of the Capitol and the Speaker that it could not be erected in compliance with the strict letter of the law without interfering in some way with the halls or some of the committee-rooms. Of course we could not erect it inside of the committee-rooms, and if erected in any of the corridors it would obstruct the light from some of the windows, so that in either case it could not be done under the law as passed. Mr. McMillin. It would be an equal violation of the statute whether it was erected in the committee-room or in the corridor. The Extensions. 933 Mr. Hawk. But the gentleman from Michigan [Mr. Conger] has suggested that possibly on re-examination of the subject this committee might find that it could be located without seriously interfering with either the corridor or the committee-rooms; and with a view to have a further examination of the subject, recognizing the impor- tance of the erection of the elevator, I favor the resolution of the gentleman from Texas. Mr. Reagan. If it be found on examination that there is space sufficient to cut off a portion of that room now used by the Committee on Appropriations, and dead- walls are left, it is not likely or possible that the noise will interfere with the delib- erations of the committee. The resolution, as amended, was then agreed to. [House proceedings of Feb. 26, 1881: Congressional Record, 16 — 3, p. 2159.] The House, as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1882 — Mr. Hawk. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment to come in after line 856. The Clerk read as follows: For passenger elevator in the south wing of the Capitol, to be located by the Architect of the Capitol, $7,000; such elevator to be so located as to interfere as little as possible with the use of the offices and rooms of the House. Mr. Blount. Individually, I have no objection to that, and shall not make the point of order upon it. If any other gentleman chooses to do so he can do it. The amendment was agreed to. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eightv-two, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1881. (Stats, at Large, v. 21, p. 449.)] For passenger elevator in south wing of the Capitol, to be located by the Architect of the Capitol, seven thousand dollars; such elevator to be so located as to interfere as little as possible with the use of the offices and committee-rooms of the House. To enable the Joint Committee on the Library to purchase works of art, ten thousand dollars. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, Oct. 1, 1881. (47 — 1, House Ex Doc. No.l, pt. 5. v. 2, p. 821.)] Congress having removed the restrictions, relating to the elevator in the south wing, referred to in my last, the work of constructing the elevator is now nearly completed. It is located at the south end of the eastern corridor. This position was chosen because it was considered more convenient of access to those who are compelled to use the elevator, being near the main carriage entrance; besides it connects with both the ladies’ retiring room in the gallery and the rooms in the basement, where it is likely the bathing rooms may be placed. It is also more convenient of approach to the post-office and refectory. It is recommended that the bathing rooms be moved from their present location to the rooms just mentioned, at the foot of the elevator, which arecomparatively light and can be well ventilated, while the rooms now used for that purpose are dark interior rooms, with no windows or other means of ade- quate ventilation. If this change should be made, the refectory could be extended so as to give a private room for members, as is the case in the Senate. 934 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House proceedings of Jan. 31, 1882: Congressional Record, 47—1, p. 767.] CHANGES IN HOUSE WING. Mr. Shallenberger. I move that the House resolve itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union. The motion was agreed to; and the House accordingly resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union (Mr. Browne in the chair). The Chairman. The House is in Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union, and the Clerk will read the first business upon its Calendar. The Clerk read as follows: A bill (H. R. No. 3181) authorizing and directing the Architect of the Capitol to make certain changes and repairs in the House wing of the Capitol. The Chairman. If there be no objection the bill will be laid aside to be reported to the House with the recommendation that it do pass. Mr. Randall. Oh, no! Let us have the bill read. The bill was read, as follows: Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, That the Archi- tect of the Capitol be, and is hereby, authorized and directed to remove the bath-rooms from their present position adjoining the House restaurant to the rooms in the southeast corner of the basement, at the foot of the elevator, and to make needful alterations and repairs necessitated by such removal, and the space now used as bath-rooms shall be added to the restaurant and reserved exclusively for the use of members of Congress. The necessary expense attending the same shall not exceed in the aggregate $3,000. Mr. Shallenberger. Now read the report I had the honor to make from the Com- mittee on Public Buildings and Grounds. The Clerk read as follows: The Committee on Public Buildings and grounds having agreed to report a bill (H. It. No. 3181) entitled “A bill authorizing and directing the Architect of the Capitol to make certain changes and repairs in the House wing of the Capitol,” sub- mit the following report : The present bath-rooms adjoin and connect with the House refectory by glass doors, which are closed temporarily. The rooms are without proper light and venti- lation, being wholly interior. They communicate with the corridors, and when filled with steam become more or less offensive. Since the elevator has been placed in the southeast corner of the House wing near the bath-rooms, their location is more public and more objectionable. Besides, the space now used as bath-room is generally needed for additional accommodations to the refectory to be reserved for members of the House, who must have prompt service during the sittings of Congress. The location of the elevator has rendered available in the basement very desirable space for bath-rooms, having light and ventilation on two sides, and being easy of access at the foot of the elevator. The architect of the Capitol has fully considered the change proposed, and has, during the recess of Congress, made a close estimate of the expense attending it, and has recommended in his printed report the location proposed as the most eligible and suitable for bath-rooms. He states that the entire work can be concluded within sixty days, and without interfering with the use of the present bath-rooms until the new are finished. The old tubs, being of marble, more or less porous and cracked, should, for sanitary reasons, give place to others, the cost of which would lie less than the expense of removing the present ones. , The entire work, including fittings and repairs, can be completed, in the judgment of the architect, for a sum not exceeding $3,000, and can proceed without disturbance or annoyance to the House or to any of its committees. The committee unanimously report the bill favorably to the House, and ask its passage. Mr. Shallenberger. Mr. Chairman, I do not propose to detain the committee with any extended remarks on this proposition. I think it has sufficiently commended The Extensions. 935 itself to a majority of members during the past two weeks. I shall therefore reserve whatever remarks I have to make until after gentlemen opposed to the bill have been heard. But before yielding the floor I ask the Clerk to read a paragraph from the report of the Architect of the Capitol. The Clerk read as follows: [Same as preceding document.] Mr. Randall. When is this work to be commenced? Mr. Shallenberger. The architect assures us he can begin the work at once, and prosecute it without disturbance of the business of the House, and that he can con- clude it within sixty days without interfering with the present use of the bath-rooms to any extent whatever. The bath-rooms, as they now exist, are interior rooms, without light, without ventilation, and illy adapted to the purpose, and for sanitary reasons alone the present bath-tubs should be removed, and give place to others. In view of the fact that these changes are made necessary for sanitary reasons, and the occupancy of the present bath-rooms can continue until after we shall have had better accommodations provided for the use of members, 1 trust the opposition to the passage of this hill will be waived, and that it will he laid aside to be reported favorably to the House. Mr. Randall. I move the committee rise and report the bill to the House. My object is to dispose of this bill and then to go to the House Calendar. Mr. Page. I wish to say a word in opposition to the bill. I am against the pro- posed change as recommended by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. I do not believe it will be conducive to the health of members of this House to com- pel them to go down into the basement to bathe. I do not believe that the basement of this building is a proper place for a bath-room. If there is anything about this House that many members appreciate it is this bath-room. The bath-room is con- venient and is well fitted up. The tubs are good, it is a good location, dry, and the ventilation I never heard complained of before. The object in making this change, at an expense of $3,000, is simply to give the restaurant-keeper an opportunity of extending his accommodations, and allowing more men to come here and take their meals. When that is done, and this expense is incurred, the members of this House will be no better accommodated than they are now. It is generally full when you go down there. Outsiders occupy the tables and the members are compelled to wait and take their turn. The whole object of this bill is to give additional room to the restaurant-keeper. He has privileges enough already, and I hope the House will not agree to this bill. Mr. Randall. 1 fully agree with the gentleman from California, and my only object in making the motion is to get the House to come to a vote without debate. Mr. Page. I move — — Mr. Blount. Before the gentleman from California makes a motion I desire to say a word. I entirely agree with him in all that he says on this subject. So far as I know individually, and I have been here for several years, I have never heard sug- gested a complaint on the part of members of this House in reference to the ventila- tion or inconvenience of the bath-room. Nor have I ever heard a suggestion that it should be removed because of sanitary reasons. But 1 have heard, from the Forty- fourth Congress down, suggestions that the keeper of the restaurant wanted more room; and applications for that purpose have been presented by himself or friends constantly. Mr. Calkins. I rise to a point of order. I do not want to cut the gentleman from Georgia off; but every member knows whether he wants this change made or not, and can exhibit this fact by his vote. The gentleman from Pennsylvania has made objection to the bill in committee. Under the rules we must go back in the House and report to the House without any further discussion. Mr. Blount. I understood when I obtained the floor that 1 was proceeding by consent. 936 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Calkins. Then, of course, I withdraw the point for the present. Mr. Blount. Now, Mr. Chairman, I was proceeding to state that we have not, and 1 know from others who preceded me here that there has been no urgency in the matter of the wants and the convenience of the members of this House, that this change should be made. All recognize the fact that that bath-room is convenient. The restaurant is convenient, and I do not see, as the gentleman from California has stated, why that change should take place, and the members remanded to the base- ment of the building when they want to take a bath. I trust it will not be done. 1 am not aware that the Architect of the Capitol has ever before made this suggestion or intimated the importance of it. But the gentleman from Indiana [Mr. Holman] will bear me out in the assertion that all through the Forty-fourth Congress persistent efforts were made to enlarge the restaurant by making the change that is now asked. There is no necessity for the change, and I trust the House will not agree to this proposition. The Chairman. The question is on the motion of the gentleman from Pennsyl- vania, that the committee rise and report the bill to the House. Mr. Shallenberger. With a favorable recommendation? Mr. Neal. No, sir. The Chairman. The motion is that the bill be reported to the House. Mr. Page. Without recommendation. Mr. Shallenberger. Then I move to amend by inserting the words, “with a favoral >le recommendation. ’ ’ Mr. Page. Then I offer an amendment to the amendment: that the committee rise and report the bill to the House with the recommendation that it do not pass. Mr. Randall. Will the Chair permit me to suggest that we let the bill come into the House, and then a motion to lay it on the table will test the sense of the House. Mr. Page. Without recommendation? Mr. Randall. Either way will test the sense of the House. Mr. Shallenberger. I insist upon the amendment. Mr. Page. Is that in order? The Chairman. The Chair thinks it is in order. The gentleman from Pennsyl- vania [Mr. Randall] moves that the committee rise and report the bill to the House. The gentleman from Pennsylvania on the left [Mr. Shallenberger] moves to amend that motion by adding that it be reported to the House with a favorable recommen- dation. Mr. Page. I hope the gentleman will withdraw that motion and let it come before the House without recommendation; otherwise I shall move to strike out “favorable” ami insert “ unfavorable.” I make that motion. Mr. Randall. The sense of the House can be tested on the motion to lay on the table. Mr. Page. I withdraw the amendment. Mr. Shallenberger. Just one word, Mr. Chairman. The Chairman. The motion is not debatable. The motion is on the amendment offered by the gentleman from Pennsylvania, [Mr. Shallenberger.] The committee divided; and there were — ayes, 59; noes, 50. So the amendment was agreed to. The motion as amended was agreed to. Mr. Springer. I move that the committee now rise. Mr. Bayne. I hope that motion will not prevail. Why not go on with the Calendar? The Chairman. The motion has been already agreed to. The committee accordingly rose, and the Speaker having resumed the chair, Mr. Browne reported that the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union, having had under consideration a bill (H. R. No. 3181) authorizing and directing the Architect of the Capitol to make certain changes and repairs in the House wing The Extensions. 937 of the Capitol, had instructed him to report the bill to the House favorably and recommend its passage. Mr. Camp. I rise i to a parliamentary inquiry. Mr. Randall. Pending that, I move that the bill be laid on the table. Mr. Camp. I desire to know whether we are in the Committee of the Whole, or in the House? No motion was made that the committee rise. The Speaker. The Chair will state that the gentleman from New York is mistaken. There was a motion made that the committee rise. Mr. Camp. It was not submitted to the committee. Mr. Hawk. It was submitted to the committee when the motion was made to report the bill to the House, and was adopted. The Speaker. The gentleman from Pennsylvania on the right [Mr. Randall] made his motion. That motion was amended on motion of the gentleman from Pennsyl- vania on the left, [Mr. Shallenberger. ] As amended it was adopted by the committee, and in pursuance of the adoption of that motion the committee rose. Mr. Shallenberger. I move the previous question on the engrossment and third reading of the bill. Mr. Randall. I move to lay the bill on the table. This is an unnecessary expend- iture of money. Mr. Hawk. Is debate in order. The Speaker. The motion to lay on the table is not debatable. * * * CHANGES IN HOUSE WING OF CAPITOL. The Speaker. The question is on the motion of the gentleman from Pennsylvania, [Mr. Randall,] to lay the bill on the table. Mr. Randall. I call for the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered. The question was taken; and there were — yeas 103, nays 112, not voting 77; as follows: * * * So the House refused to lay the bill on the table. * * * The Speaker. The question recurs on the demand made bv the gentleman from Pennsylvania on the left [Mr. Shallenberger] for the previous question on the engrossment and third reading of the hill. The previous question was ordered; and under the operation thereof the bill was ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and, being engrossed, it was accord- ingly read the third time. Mr. Shallenberger. I move the previous question on the passage of the bill. The previous question was ordered. The Speaker. The question is on the passage of the bill. Mr. Holman and Mr. Neal called for the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered. The question was taken; and there were — yeas 116, nays 98, not voting 78; as follows: * * * So the bill was passed. Mr. Shallenberger moved to reconsider the vote by which the bill was passed; and also moved that the motion to reconsider be laid on the table. The latter motion was agreed to. [Senate proceedings of Feb. 2, 1882: Congressional Record, 47 — 1, p. 818.] Mr. Rollins. I am directed by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. No. 3181) authorizing and directing the Archi- tect of the Capitol to make certain changes and repairs in the House wing of the 938 Documentary IDstory of the Capitol. Capitol, to report it without amendment, and I ask for its present consideration. It is a small bill, and it is desirable that the work shall be done immediately. The President pro tempore. Is there objection to the present consideration of the bill? Mr. Ingalls. The regular order, Mr. President. The President pro tempore. Objection being made, the bill will be placed on the Calendar. [Senate proceedings of Feb. 3, 1882: Congressional Record, 47 — 1, p.869.] CHANGES IN HOUSE WING OF CAPITOL. Mr. Rollins. I ask the Senate to consider House bill No. 3181, to provide changes in the House part of the Capitol, to which my attention has been called to-day by several members of the House. They are very anxious it should be passed, and there is no objection to it. It will take but a moment. By unanimous consent, the Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, proceeded to consider the bill (II. R. No. 3181) authorizing and directing the Architect of the Capitol to make certain changes and repairs in the House wing of the Capitol. The bill was reported to the Senate without amendment, ordered to a third read- ing, read the third time, and passed. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-two, and for other purposes,” approved Aug. 7, 1882. (Stats, at Large, v. 22, 338.)] F or reconstructing and improving the Senate elevator, and for constructing a freight- elevator for the use of the Senate, and for repairs to coils and steam machinery in the basement of the Senate wing, ten thousand dollars. To enable the Joint Committee on the Library to purchase works of art, ten thou- sand dollars. [Senate proceedings of July 2, 1884: Congressional Record 48—1, p. 5912.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the Sundry Civil bill for 1885 — Mr. MoRRrLL. By direction of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds I move, after line 1115, to insert: For the increase of the openings in the floor of the Senate Chamber, the lower openings in the roof, and the arrangement for the exhaust-fans to draw air from the corridors and stairways, as rec- ommended by the chief engineer of the United States Senate and Architect of the United States Capitol, $6,000. I shall not take time to discuss the amendment, but I refer Senators to Miscella- neous Document 103, in which will be found an interesting report. This is for the purpose of getting a larger amount of air in, and also having an opening on the top, after the late improvement of the House, which is found to be a very great one. I trust there will be no objection to the amendment. The amendment was agreed to. [The document referred to is 48 — 1, Senate Mis. Doc. 103: Letter of W. P. Canaday, Sergeant-at-Arms United States Senate, transmitting report of Chief Engineer T. A. Jones, regarding the heating and ventilation of the Senate Chamber, with certain recommendations of the Architect of the Capitol relative thereto, communicated to the Senate June 9, 1884.] The Extensions. 939 [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-five, and for other purposes,” approved July 7 1884. (Stats, at Large, v. 23, 209.)] For the increase in the openings in the floor of the Senate Chamber, the openings in the roof, and the arrangement for the exhaust fans to draw air from the corridors and stairways, as recommended by the Chief Engineer of the United States Senate and Architect of the United States Capitol, six thousand dollars. [From the “Act making appropriations for the legislative, executive, and judicial expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-five, and for other purposes,” approved July 7, 1884. (Stats, at Large, v. 23, 165.)] To enable the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress to purchase works of art, twelve thousand dollars. [From the “Act making appropriations for the legislative, executive, and judicial expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-six, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1885. (Stats, at Large, v. 23, 394.)] For the purchase of works of art, under the direction of the Joint Committee on the Library, five thousand dollars. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-seven, and for other purposes,” approved Aug. 4, 1886. (Stats, at Large, 24, 239, 254, 256.)] For introducing the electric light into the entire Senate extension wing of the Capitol, under the direction of the Architect of the Capitol, twenty thousand dollars. For the purchase of works of art, and the necessary cleaning and repairing thereof, including new frames, under the direction of the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress, ten thousand dollars. For extending Senate boiler-vaults and for additional steam-boilers for the same, ten thousand five hundred dollars, the same to be expended under the direction of the Architect of the Capitol. [Senate proceedings of Jan. 31, 1887: Congressional Record, 49 — 2, p. 1193.] The Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1888 — Elevator for Senate wing of the Capitol: For the construction of an elevator in the south end of the eastern corridor of the Senate wing of the Capitol, $15,000: and the Architect of the Capitol is directed to have the same completed for use by December 1, 1887. Mr. Plumb. I should like to ask the Senator from Iowa where the new elevator is to be located? Mr. Allison. As the clause stands now it would be located in the corridor in the northeast end of the Senate wing. Mr. Plumb. Is it to come up in front of the Finance Committee room? Mr. Allison. Yes, sir. Mr. Plumb. Let me call the attention of the Senator from Iowa and of the Senate to the fact that that is right where the bulk of the travel between the two Houses goes by. That would run where very often a large crowd of people are in process of coming from the House wing to the Senate wing. To build an elevator at that point 940 Documentary ID story of the Capitol. would, it seems to me, clog up to a very great degree, if not absolutely for a con- siderable portion of the time, that space. As long as I have been here I have not discovered that there is any more necessity for an additional elevator now than there was ten years ago. It seems to some, I may say without disrespect, to be desirable to keep tinkering at this building without very much regard to the necessities of the service. Mr. Allison. If the Senator from Kansas objects to the specification I will consent, without having the authority of thecommittee to do so, to strike out the words “the south end of.” Mr. Teller. Strike it all out. Mr. Cullom. Strike the whole business out. Mr. Allison. It would then read: For the construction of an elevator in the eastern corridor of the Senate wing of the Capitol, $15,000. Mr. Teller. It seems to me that a better suggestion would be to strike it all out. I do not myself think we need any elevator at that point, and, besides, I do not think it is a good thing to tear up the Capitol with that kind of work. We have an elevator which I think is ample for the business of the Senate and of the employes who have any business to use it. I have never seen any necessity for a new elevator. It can not be put in where it is proposed without destroying the harmony of the building. It will be out of place there. The President pro tempore. The Senator from Colorado will accomplish his pur- pose by voting in the negative, against inserting the clause. Mr. Allison. I modify the amendment by striking out the words “the south end of. ’ ’ Mr. Teller. Where will you put it then? Mr. Allison. I do not know. The President pro tempore. The Senator from Iowa moves to strike out, in line 1284, the words “the south end of;” so as to read: For the construction of an elevator in the eastern corrider of the Senate wing, &c. Mr. Teller. That is still worse. Mr. Morrill. I believe that there are very grave objections to placing an elevator as proposed in the amendment of the Committee on Appropriations, for it would not only be an obstruction that would be very serious for the Committee on Public Lands and for approach to the restaurant, but it would make a dark avenue for the three stories, first on the basement, then on the second story, and then on the one above. The only light that comes into the corridors on the Senate side now is from the south side, and if those windows should be blocked up all of the cor- ridors in the three stories would be almost darkened. But there might be an eleva- tor placed in the eastern corridor near the door that enters into the reporter’s room. Mr. Teller. Where would that be? Mr. Morrill. In the corridor as you come in on the east from the outside door on the left-hand side. That space might be occupied with the least possible objection, and it is the only place that I know of where an elevator could be put up with any sort of decency. Mr. Plumb. Does the Senator think it necessary in the building at all? Mr. Morrill. I do not myself know that it would not be necessary, but I suppose the elevator that we now have is a good deal of inconvenience to the Judiciary Com- mittee and to the Appropriations Committee in making a constant noise in moving up and down. I suppose it is a kind of a nuisance, and so it would be to any other committee-room. Otherwise than that I know of no inconvenience about it. Mr. Teller. It seems to me the suggestion of the Senator from Vermont is still worse than the other proposition. It is true that at the place proposed by the com- mittee it will darken the hall, but at the other place it will absolutely destroy the The Extensions. 941 symmetry of the eastern entrance. It would be incongruous, and it ought not to be placed there. I do not believe the committee have given the subject as much attention as they ought to have done. The present elevator, I understand, is to be left; I do not understand that it is proposed to take that away. It is insisted now that we need two elevators. I do not think that we very much need any, but we certainly do not need more than one; and to tear up the front of this building where we come in here, and where it is now suggested, or to shut up those lights at the place where it was first suggested, is simply absurd. I believe that the whole thing ought to be stricken out, or at least we ought to refuse to agree to the amendment until there is more care and attention given to the subject and some better place selected, if we must have a new elevator, than the places which have been suggested. Mr. Allison. This matter has been carefully considered by the Committee on Appropriations several times. It passed the Senate at the last session of Congress after a pretty full debate in this body and was agreed upon, but it was finally stricken out of the bill at the urgent solicitation of certain Senators because we could not agree upon the exact location to suit them. I do not care more particularly to define the location of this proposed elevator than is defined in the amendment, striking out the words which I have suggested, nor do I advocate this elevator simply because the present elevator inconveniences the Committee on Appropriations, although it does greatly inconvenience that com- mittee, not because of the noise in the running up and down of the elevator (that does not inconvenience us), but because of the fact that in that remote corridor there is a constant flow of people, making it practically impossible to use the present elevator. I venture the statement that ordinarily the Senators who go up and down that elevator during the sessions of the Senate do not feel safe in doing so, for the reason that it is overcrowded and overloaded. There is a necessity for another elevator, or else we should have no elevators in this building. Merely that we may disarrange a little capstone, or perhaps a figure or two of ornamention in some portion of the eastern end of the Capitol, constitutes no reason why we should fail to have the use of an additional elevator. The Capitol is here for the convenience of people, and modern elevators seem to be necessary for the convenience of people. The Senator from Colorado seems to think an elevator is not necessary. If we are to have elevators at all this additional one is necessary because the present one is not sufficient. It is a matter in which I have no interest different from or other than other Senators. I believe that we ought to have an additional elevator here. This amendment was put in after the fullest consideration by the committee and after consultation with other Senators who are interested. I can appreciate very well that the Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill], having the room of the Com- mittee on Finance, of which he is chairman, near the corridor named here, should object to having it in his neighborhood. I can also see that the Senator from Kansas [Mr. Plumb], having his committee-room in the lower corridor, should object to that particular location. I am willing to accommodate both Senators. This phraseology was inserted because the Architect of the Capitol said that was the natural place for it, and he wanted us to put it at that point. There are plenty of places for an elevator in the eastern corridor without taking the location named in the amendment. Mr. Vest. Will the Senator allow me to say a word there? Mr. Allison. Yes, sir. Mr. Vest. I happen to know something about this matter, because when the last sundry civil appropriation bill was passed this appropriation was contained in it, and it located the elevator on the right-hand side of the eastern entrance, which 942 Documentary History .of the Capitol. would destroy tire door that now leads into the room of the Committee on the District of Columbia. It attracted no attention from me at the time, though I was a member of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, but after it passed the Architect of the Capitol, Major Clark, came to the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, the Senator from Virginia [Mr. Mahone], and called his attention to the location, and said that it was almost impossible to put it there; that it would ruin that entrance to the Capitol altogether. Mr. Allison. That particular location was abandoned. 1 do not say that it was a good location. Mr. Vest. If the Senator will permit me, the chairman of the Committee on Pub- lic Buildings and Grounds then called me into consultation. The Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill] was at that time unfortunately very ill and not present; but the Senator from Virginia and myself, with the Architect of the Capitol, went and examined all the possible locations. Major Clark explained to us the thickness of the walls and the peculiar construction of the Capitol, and he is the only man living, I believe, who knows all about it. He told us that the elevator could not be put near the eastern entrance; that it would be necessary in that case to close up the door to the District Committee room and put it immediately outside of that door, or else to cut a place inside of the reception room, which he considered impracticable. The result of our examination and exploration was that we concluded, with the advice of the Architect of the Capitol, that the space near the Finance Committee room was the only eligible location, and I honestly believe if the elevator is not put there it ought not to be erected at all. Mr. Allison. The Architect of the Capitol seems to think that is an available place, and he relies on the Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill] to object to that place, so that no elevator at all will be put in the Capitol. Mr. Teller. He is right. Mr. Allison. I went with the Architect of the Capitol, and he pointed out to me three places, two in the eastern corridor and one in the reception-room, either one of which he said was perfectly practicable and perfectly available. That is what he told me within ten days. He did say that the proper place, in his judgment, with reference to the beauty and ornamentation of this side of the Capitol, was at the door of the committee-room of the Senator from Vermont. Mr. Dawes. Diagonally across from the present elevator? Mr. Allison. Yes, diagonally across from where the elevator is. But the Senator from Vermont objects. I desire, so far as I am concerned, to yield to his suggestion as far as possible, but we need another elevator. It is perfectly easy, convenient, and practicable to put it in the eastern end of the Capitol, and 1 hope the amend- ment will be agreed to in some form. Mr. Morrill. I do not so much object to the proposed location because it would destroy the convenience or the beauty of the entrance to the room of the Committee on Finance, but it would absolutely exclude the light from all these corridors from top to bottom if put there. As the Senator from Iowa has stated, Mr. Clark does consent that it is practicable to take a space near the eastern entrance of the Capitol, this side of the door that goes into the reporter’s room; and it would not be a very great destruction of the beauty of the entrance. It would be near the entrance, but so far removed that there would be room enough to get into the reporter’s room, and then it would go up without any sort of obstruction from the lower floor to the upper loft, and end in the upper space near the room of the Committee on Revolu- tionary Claims. Mr. Beck. Mr. President, I voted in committee for this amendment to locate the elevator in the south end of the eastern corridor of the Senate wing, and I voted for it with some reluctance, because of the objections stated by the Senator from Ver- The Extensions. 943 mont, as I understood him. He was not here last year when the question was up, because he was quite unwell at that time, but all the information I hail, all the observation I could make, after going around with Mr. Clark and others, was that the place ought to be at the window near the door of the Finance Committee room. Elevators are constructed now so that they obstruct the light very little. These galleries sometimes contain a thousand people, and every once in a while when the Senator from Vermont is about to make a great speech the people in the galleries of the other House rush over here, and they ought to have some way when they come out of the House gallery to get up very quickly so as to hear him for fear that he might get through before they got in. The present elevator is so crowded, not only as a passenger, but as a freight eleva- tor, that it seems to me we ought to have two, and that the eastern end of the build- ing ought to be accommodated. 1 do not believe it would injure the Finance Com- mittee room. Fortunately, or unfortunately, I happen to be a member of both the Commtttee on Finance and the Committee on Appropriations, and 1 know that people crowd in near the room of the Committee on Appropriations very much. If the travel by elevator were equally divided it would not do any harm. If it is not to be placed there I am willing to vote to strike out the amendment, because if put anywhere else in the corridor below, it seems to me it would destroy the whole symmetry of the building. Mr. Morrill. I shall vote against the proposition in any shape. I do not believe it is absolutely necessary. However, I move to amend the amendment of the com- mittee so as to make it read : For the construction of an elevator near the eastern entrance of the Senate wing of the Capitol. I propose to strike out the words “in the south end of the,” and the word “cor- ridor,” and to insert the word “entrance” in lieu of the word “corridor.” The President pro tempore. The amendment proposed by the Senator from Ver- mont will be stated. The Secretary. In line 1281 strike out the words “in the south end of the,” and in line 1282 strike out the word “corridor” and insert the word “entrance;” so as to read: For the construction of an elevator near the eastern entrance of the Senate wing of the Capitol, Slo.OOO. Mr. Morrill. Now, I wish to say one word more. Nearly all the strangers who come up here to see their friends in the Senate approach by the corridor on the south side of the Senate, and they stand there until they can get some messenger or page to Send in their cards. When the Committee on Finance have gentlemen calling, as they have every day, for the purpose of seeing some member of the com- mittee or on some business that is pending, they always wait in the light of that window. As I said before, an elevator would be absolutely destructive of the light on the lower floor, on the second floor, and on the upper floor. It would be a very great inconvenience to our entrance into the restaurant, and if there is a place in the Capitol where there ought not to be an elevator that is the spot. Mr. Edmunds. I am surprised that the Senate is engaged in such high debate on this question of the means of getting up and down from its various stories. This Capitol, 1 am bound to assume, was built purely for beauty, to please the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, the Architect of the Capitol, and the dilettanti generally who live at the west end of the town, and that the purposes of public busi- ness and the opportunity to carry it on are purely a secondary consideration. I am sure I must be right about that, for I remember that when I was a long time a member of the Committee on Private Land Claims up in the northeast corner, and my old friend Judge Thurman, and Judge Davis, and ever so many gentlemen were chairmen of it, the room smoked, the chimney drew down instead of up; and when 944 Documentary History of the Capitol. we modestly appealed to the Architect of the Capitol and somebody else to put one of these whirligig contrivances on top of that chimney, to have the smoke go out from the fire-place up the chimney instead of coming out into the room, we were met all the time, and have been to this day, by the statement that if you put a cap on that chimney it would show over the balustrade around the top of the Capitol, and the dilettanti and the citizens who come up and approach the building would see it and it \yould not present a handsome appearance. That is the trouble here. We have a great reception room where a great many people come for good and necessary business purposes to wait. A great many others come to lounge around and sleep there and stay there all day, and where there is room to have an elevator large enough to carry fifteen people at a time in any corner of it up and down from top to bottom. But we can not have it there because it would spoil the beauty of a graining or a fresco of a woman with a torch in her hand, or something of that kind. It will not do to have it there. What is the public busi- ness and the public convenience compared to the beauty that this Capitol, inside and out, was intended only to subserve? Then, when you come over to the Finance Committee room, it is objectionable to my friend and colleague, because it is going to destroy the light which shines on the outside of his door. Fie ought to remember that with you, Mr. President, and my colleague and the Senator from Kentucky [Mr. Beck] inside, it does not require a great deal of light outside to carry on the public business. And so you must send nine-tenths of the people who come into the Capitol and want to go upstairs and wish an elevator, three or four hundred feet from the east side of this wing to the west side of it, to a narrow corridor that has no other light between the committee-room of the Judiciary Committee and the committee-room of the Committee on Naval Affairs, or you must send them up to the entrance of the room of the Committee on Appro- priations, where there is a similar narrow corridor with no other light than that which comes through where the elevator is, and then up to the room of the Com- mittee on Privileges and Elections and the room of the Committee on Commerce on top, where there is a similar narrow corridor, with no other light, in order that we may save the beauty of the east wing of the Capitol and the light on the outside of the Finance Committee room, and send everybody to travel a half or a quarter of a mile and crowd up those narrow and dark corridors to reach the elevator that is now there. Is that a good thing to do? I do not think it is necessary to put this elevator into the entrance of my friend’s committee room, although there is more light on the outside of that door, coming from the great corridor out here and from the other way, than in any other corridor that I know of in the Capitol, with its southern exposure; and an elevator would diminish the light there less than anywhere else. Mr. Morrill. It would obscure the whole of it. Mr. Edmunds. It would divide this tremendous flow that fills these narrow corri- dors on every one of the floors every day so that it is a 'serious business — it was this morning — to get into the room of the Committee on the Judiciary at all, or the room of the Committee on Naval Affairs by the door on that side of the hall, which is closed for the very reason that nobody can get in and out of it, and the same is the case on the top floor If you divide it it will mitigate the evil, but it is not necessary, in my opinion, unless beauty is the sole object for which this Capitol was built, to confine it to that particular place if it is not the best one for convenience. There is room enough and convenience enough in the eastern broad entrance where people do not come in; there is room enough in this great reception room, and in the open space below it, and in the open space above it, to put an elevator; but if we are to sacrifice every- thing for all time to come to what some people consider to be beauty, we had better, as my friend says, be opposed to the whole thing altogether. The Extensions. 945 Mr. Morrill. Was the amendment which I proposed acted upon? The President pro tempore. Not yet; it is pending. Mr. Morrill. Then I merely desire to call attention to the fact that my colleague has a committee-room that 'is situated precisely as the room of the Public Lands Committee, and the Committee on Finance, and the Committee on Public Printing will be when this elevator is put in. These committees’ rooms are in corridors that will have the light as much obstructed by a large elevator as in the corridors of which he speaks, having a small elevator. Mr. Edmunds. You are mistaken. Mr. Morrill. I am not mistaken. I ought also to remind my friend that he is one of the west-enders himself. The President pro tempore. The question is on agreeing to the amendment of the Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill] to the amendment of the Committee on Appropriations. The amendment to the amendment was rejected. Mr. Plumb. What was that amendment? Mr. Edmunds. It was an amendment locating the elevator in the corridor, by the eastern entrance. Mr. Plumb. Let the amendment of the Committee on Appropriations, as it now stands, be read. The President pro tempore. The Chair understands that the amendment offered by the Senator from lavra [Mr. Allison] has been adopted. Mr. Teller. Let it be read as amended. Mr. Call. We do not understand it. The President pro tempore. It will be read. The Secretary read as follows: For the construction of an elevator in the eastern corridor of the Senate wing of the Capitol, flo.OOO. Mr. Plumb. I think the difficulty with this is the fact that we have one elevator now and we can not make room enough for all the persons who wish to ascend from the lower story to the story above. Of course I can appreciate the feeling which the Senator from Vermont [Mr. Edmunds] has about the condition of things in front of the Judiciary Committee room, but I think that would all be resolved by the substitute which I shall propose. I move to strike out all about this elevator and to provide that the one we now have shall be removed. The President pro tempore. The Senator from Kansas moves as a substitute for the committee amendment what will be read. The Secretary. It is proposed to strike out the paragraph from line 1280 to line 1285, inclusive, and to insert: That the Architect of the Capitol be directed to remove the elevator now in the north wing of the Capitol. Mr. Plumb. And I propose to add: And for that purpose $1,000 is hereby appropriated. Mr. Edmunds. That would make it out of order. Stick to it as you had it, and take the sense of the Senate. The President pro tempore. The question is on agreeing to the amendment of the Senator from Kansas [Mr. Plumb] to the amendment. The amendment to the amendment was rejected. The President pro tempore. The question recurs on agreeing to the amendment, of the Committee on Appropriations as amended. Mr. Plumb. Let us have the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered. H. Rep. 640 60 946 Documentary History of the Capitol . Mr. Vest. Do I understand that the amendment offered by the chairman of the committee was adopted? The President pro tempore. The Chair so understands. Mr. Test. I do not think we had any vote on it. I want to vote for the provision as it came from the committee. I do not want the location struck out. I am addressing myself now to the Senator from Iowa. I did not understand that his amendment was adopted. It was proposed to take a vote on it. The President pro tempore. If there is any doubt about it, the Chair will again submit the question on the amendment of the Senator from Iowa [Mr. Allison] . The Chair understood it to be agreed to. Mr. Ingalls. Mr. President, having been unfortunately detained from the Chamber during this instructive debate, I am without the information that will enable me to vote intelligently. As the committee of which I have the honor to be the chairman occupies a room to the northward of the colonnade from the eastern entrance, I am curious and somewhat interested to know what the location of the proposed elevator is to be. In conversation with Mr. Clark, the Architect of the Capitol, the other day, after after having called his attention to this amendment in the language in which it was reported from the committee, 1 was advised that the purpose of the committee was to locate the elevator in the casement of the window near the entrance of the Finance Committee room. Such I understand to have been the deliberate intention of the committee after consultation with the Architect of the Capitol for the purpose of ascertaining how the wants of the public and the needs of the Senate would be best accommodated in the location. Now comes the Senator from Iowa, and in a myste- rious and subtle way Mr. Hale. Furtive. [Laughter.] Mr. Ingalls. Not “furtive,” as the Senator from Maine suggests, because that is not a characteristic of the Senator from Iowa; but in a subtle way he moves an amendment to change in some method a provision that was absolutely clear and specific before, with the expectation, I fear greatly, in some way or other of confound- ing this subject and leaving to the caprice, or the design, or the whim of some other person or persons the location of this elevator in some other place than that- which has heretofore been selected. I trust the location of this movable car for the con- venience of the infirm and the indolent from floor to floor in this building having been determined, that before we are called upon to vote to change the language we shall be advised whether we do not thereby change the location also. If not, why the change? Mr. Allison. The Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill] suggested that the par- ticular spot named in this amendment was not the exact place where this elevator should be located, although the Architect of the Capitol did say to the Committee on Appropriations that this was the proper place, also saying to the committee that there were at least two or three places that were perfectly feasible as locations. Now, I consented, in order that this matter might be left to the Architect of the Capitol, who knows of course more about it than we can know, to provide for an elevator in the eastern end of this wing of the Capitol, and I am willing to trust to the Architect of the Capitol to fix the location. I am very well aware that there is one convenient method of defeating this amendment, and that is to compel us by law to fix the exact location of the ele- vator, and then, because it does not suit this Senator or that Senator, or this com- mittee or that committee, we shall have no elevator at all. Therefore, if I had my own way, I should put in, just as the Architect proposes, that exact location, and that is what the committee did. To accommodate the Senator from Vermont I was willing that those three words should be struck out, and I stated when I suggested that they be struck out that I did so, not on the motion of the committee, but on The Extensions. 947 my own, and I do not care whether they are in or out. What I think we ought to have is an elevator in this Capitol, and in the eastern corridor of this Capitol; and no shifting or changing about it, whether it suits this, that, or the other Senator or committee, should prevent our having it. Mr. Hale. Hoes not the Senator from Iowa believe that the proper and fitting place for this elevator to accommodate the public that now crowd the other elevator is at the south end of the eastern corridor? Mr. Allison. I am inclined to think that would be a very good place for it. I am inclined to think that it would be still better to put it at the eastern entrance where people come in, and the only objection made by the Architect of the Capitol to that location is the fact that in some way it will disfigure that grand entrance to the Capitol. Mr. Morrill. I do not understand when the Architect was present with the Sena- tor and myself that he made any objection to that location at all. He thought it was entirely suitable. Mr. Hale. What possible objection is there to putting it at the south end of the eastern corridor where it will be plainly in sight, and where it will be out of the way, where it will accommodate everybody, and where it will not discommode anybody? Mr. Morrill. You were not here when I made my statement from the Senator from Iowa. Mr. Hale. I did not hear it, but I have been at this place very many times, and I do not know of any place, unless some individual objection is raised, where it would suit the general public so well as it would at the south end of that corridor near the entrance to the door of the Committee on Finance. It is no nearer to that com- mittee than the present elevator is to the Appropriations Committee room, and there are a hundred men who go into the Appropriations Committee room where there is one who goes into the Finance Committee room. Mr. Morrill. I think the Senator is very much mistaken. I think we have more members of the other House coming into the Finance Committee room than go into the Appropriations Committee room. Mr. Hale. We have more of the general public. Mr. Morrill. And we have a large part of the public coming. Besides, as I have stated over and over again, it would be an obstruction to the light, to the entrance into the restaurant, and to all the rooms, from top to bottom. Mr. Hale. No more than the old elevator is. Mr. Morrill. There is not any other light at all for these corridors except what comes on that side. Mr. Hale. I never heard but one sentiment expressed except by the Senator from Vermont. Mr. Allison. I withdraw my amendment. The President pro tempore. The Senator from Iowa withdraws his amendment. The question recurs on the amendment reported by the Committee of Appropriations. Mr. Plumb. Let us have the yeas and nays on that. The President pro tempore. The yeas and nays have been ordered. Mr. Morrill. I renew the amendment, because I am satisfied that if Senators would go down stairs and look and see what the effect would be of putting this elevator at one of the other places there would be no question as to what should be done. I therefore renew the amendment of the Senator from Iowa. The President pro tempore. The question is on the amendment of the Senator from Vermont, which will be read. The Secretary. It is proposed, in line 1281, after the word “the,” where it occurs the second time in the line, to strike out “south end of the,” so as to read: For the construction of an elevator in the eastern corridor of the Senate wing of the Capitol, &c. 948 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Ingalls. Now, INI r. President, after the statement of the Senator from Ver- mont, the issue is plainly tendered to the Senate, because the Senator from Iowa having admitted that the Architect of theCapitol, in consultation with theCommittee on Appropriations, affirmed, and that the Committee on Appropriations acted on his statement, that the better place for this elevator was at the south end of the east corridor of the Senate, now agrees to the motion to strike out those words; that is a declaration Which, in my judgment, the Architect of the Capitol will be compelled to heed, that this body by a majority, the issue having been tendered, has decided that the elevator shall not be located in that place. Mr. Hale. Undoubtedly. Mr. Ingalls. If this is a matter affecting the convenience of the occupants of any committee-room, all I have to say is that, rather than have the eastern corridor mutilated by an elevator, I will cheerfully abandon the room I occupy to anybody so far as my statement or declaration can reach that result; and if there is any objection on the part of the Senator from Vermont resulting from his personal con- venience, the noise, the uproar, the throng, the din that will occur around the entrance, the vestibule, the portal of that peaceful retreat, so far as I am concerned, I am willing to make any sacrifice to enable him and the committee of which he is the honored head to obtain some cloistered seclusion where they will be wholly apart from the din and noise that will result from being somewhere in the neighbor- hood of the entrance to that elevator. It seems to me that the merest casual inspection of these two corridors, the merest glance at the situation, will disclose to everybody that that is where the elevator, if at all, ought to be; anil so far as the subterranean part of it is concerned, 1 went the other day with Mr. Clark myself examining the different locations where this should be placed, and we went up-stairs and down-stairs, and into the third story below, and examined the whole course of this elevator from the foundation to the top story, and there is no ground whatever for supposing that there is to be any obstruction either to light, or comfort, or convenience upon the story below; none whatever. By simply cutting through the wall there can be, without any sort of interruption to the convenience below, or diminution of space, a location there that will accom- modate everybody; and so far as the door of the Finance Committee room is con- cerned, it can readily be arranged by cutting through the transverse wall, so that the entrance to the elevator shall be from the west instead of from the north and in entire seclusion, and there need never be any more noise or tumult about that room than there is now. I appeal also to the experience of the members of the Judiciary Committee and of the Appropriations Committee if all this pretext about the obstruction to the rooms is not wholly without foundation. Nobody is obstructed; nobody is interfered with; and I hope, therefore, that as we are called upon to vote on this matter the Senate will agree to vote down this amendment and allow the section to stand as it came from the Committee on Appropriations. Mr. Morrill. It is perfectly obvious that every Senator who has a committee- room near where this elevator is proposed to be located is very acute in discovering that it will be no annoyance to anybody else to have it placed somewhere else. The Senator from Kansas [Mr. Ingalls] is exceedingly anxious that this should not be anywhere near his magnificent room that he has on the right hand side of the east- ern entrance to the Senate. Mr. Ingalls. I hope the Senator will allow me just a moment. I said distinctly that if that was the only objection, I would gladly exchange with the Senator from Vermont and take his committee-room for the one I occupy. Mr. Morrill. Yes, but the Senator from Kansas went on to say that it was no possible inconvenience to any of the committee-rooms on the other side. I think he is a better judge of what is his own convenience than he is of that of some others. The Extensions. 949 Mr. Hale. The Senator will allow me on that point Mr. Morrill. I wish to occupy only a moment more. Mr. Hale. The Committee on Appropriations have an elevator at their door, and they would not want it removed. It does not inconvenience the room in the least. The President pro tempore. The Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill] has the floor. Mr. Morrill. I should like very much that Senators could have an opportunity to go and see the place that the Architect of the Capitol at last agreed was the most appropriate place for this elevator, as I understood him. Mr. Ingalls. Where was that? Mr. Morrill. Where it would not interfere at all with the beauty of the Capitol nor with any committee-room whatever. Mr. Ingalls. Where was that? Mr. Morrill. Just on the entrance on the left-hand side coming in from the eastern door. Mr. Plumb. Mr. President, it is pretty evident that if this matter depends on who has seen the Architect of the Capitol last, the Senator from Vermont ought to have another chance. The Senator from Iowa and my colleague have evidently been interviewing him since the Senator from Vermont has seen him, and they have been talking with him and got him at very great disadvantage. I think now we ought to postpone this matter long enough at any rate to give the Senator from Vermont a chance to see Mr. Clark, who has shown himself very flexible, and will be able to give us another report by to-morrow morning. The fact is, that an elevator in front of any committee-room is more or less a bur- den to the occupants of the room, especially to the occupants of a committee-room like that of the Judiciary or the Finance Committee, where there is very serious pub- lic service. That might be said also in regard to the Committee on Public Lands; but I do not care anything about that matter, because that is not in a place where people are constantly coming and going, as they would be in front of the door of the Finance Committee. The situation is very greatly different there from what it is either in front of the Appropriations Committee-room or the Judiciary Committee- room. There is a constant surging of people backward and forward there which will impede the ingress and egress, so far as the elevator is concerned, and will be a perpetual annoyance to the members of the Finance Committee in every way. My colleague sees the disadvantage of this, and is willing to surrender his com- mittee-room rather than to be discommoded by this elevator. I hope we shall have the same courtesy for the Senator from Vermont, that we shall not discommode anybody for that which is to-day practically without testimony in its favor. I have never heard a word said in favor of an elevator. There has never been any public complaint, there has never been any complaint on the part of any member of the Senate that I have ever heard of, except by two or three members of the Appropria- tions Committee. I have always supposed that really it was intended finally to result in taking that elevator away as soon as we got this one established over here, and that an amendment would be introduced to take away the one now annoying to the members of the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on the Judiciary. That, I have no doubt, was the scheme, to load up one set of committee rooms at the expense of another. Mr. Hale. I do not look upon this matter in the light that some Senators have viewed it. I do not think it is an inconvenience to any committee-room to have an elevator at its door. I spend a good deal of time in the Committee on Appropria- tions, go in and out there a great many times a day, come up from below, and go down from above, and I have always considered it a convenience to have the eleva- tor there. The Senator from Vermont who has conservative ideas, not wanting any 950 Documentary History of the Capitol. changes, does not wish an elevator near the door of his committee-room, but in a month after it is in he -will never know the difference. The need of this elevator is simply to accommodate the public. The throng is increasing here every year. There are a hundred people visiting the Capitol every day now to ten five years ago, and it is increasing all the time. They fill up the corridors, they throng about the elevator, and one elevator is not enough. There ought to he another for the accommodation of the public. So far as my knowledge goes, that was the one object in view by the Committee on Appropriations, to accom- modate this constantly increasing throng, and as a Senator said just now, it is not a pleasing spectacle when a thing of this kind is sought to he done for the public ben- efit, to find every man leaping to his feet and objecting because it is going to interfere a little with him. If you wait until nobody objects you will never have an elevator, you will never have this throng accommodated, they will crowd around this single elevator, and Senators, no matter what committee-room they belong to, will have no opportunity of using it. They go down to lunch, but they can not get in the eleva- tor, it is filled three or four or five deep, and they have to come up the stairway. It is a nuisance that ought to be abated, and to my mind there ought not to be any objection raised here because it is going to he in one place or another. I insist that it does not inconvenience the Committee on Appropriations to have the elevator there. I never want to see that one removed. The President pro tempore. The question is on the amendment proposed by the Senator from Vermont to the amendment of the Committee on Appropriations. The amendment to the amendment was rejected. The President pro tempore. The question now recurs on the amendment reported by the committee. Mr. Plumb. I call for the yeas and nays. The President pro tempore. The yeas and nays have already been ordered. Mr. Gibson. I ask that the amendment be reported. The President pro tempore. The amendment will be read. The Secretary. After line 1279, the Committee on Appropriations propose to insert: Elevator for Senate wing of the Capitol: For the construction of an elevator in the south end of the eastern corridor of the Senate wing of the Capitol, $15,000; and the Architect of the Capitol is directed to have the same completed for use by December 1, 1887. Mr. Morrill. I desire to call the attention of the Senate to the fact that mine is the same amendment which was first proposed by the chairman of the Committee on Appropriations, and it would leave the place for the elevator where it would be no obstruction to any committee whatever, and as convenient as any spot in the Capitol. If it is placed where it is now proposed, it. will be an inconvenience to no less than three committees, and will he an obstruction to the light of all the corridors. Mr. Plumb. I think the Senator from Vermont mistakes the question. His amend- ment was voted down. The question is now on the amendment of the committee. Mr. Morrill. I renewed the amendment of the Senator from Iowa [Mr. Allison]. Mr. Hale. That was just now voted down. The President pro tempore. If the Senator from Vermont did not understand the question, the Chair will again put it on his amendment; but the Chair put the ques- tion on his amendment. Mr. Morrill. I know my amendment was voted on, but I renewed the amend- ment of the Senator from Iowa. The President pro tempore. That was the amendment the Chair last submitted to the Senate, but the Chair will again put the question on the amendment offered by the Senator from Vermont, similar to the amendment offered by the Senator from Iowa some time ago. The question is on that amendment to the amendment of the Committee on Appropriations. The amendment to the amendment was rejected. The Extensions. 951 The President pro tempore. The question recui's on the amendment as reported by the Committee on Appropriations. Mr. Plumb. I make a point of order on the amendment. It is not covered by the estimates, it increases the appropriation, and it is new legislation. Mr. Kenna. Is it not too late to raise a point of order to that amendment after an amendment to it has been voted upon? Mr. Hale. I take it the Senator can put on any clause increasing the conveniences at this end of the Capitol; it can put an elevator in or change a rule; it is only regulating the use of the Capitol. The President pro tempore. Does the Senator from Kansas raise the point of order? Mr. Plumb. I make the point of order. The President pro tempore. The Chair is of opinion that after the amendment has been received, and the yeas and nays have been ordered upon it, it is too late to raise the question. The Chair, however, is required under the rule to submit all questions of relevancy to the Senate, and the Chair will submit this question to the Senate. Mr. Harris. I do not think the question of relevancy is raised at all. The point of the Senator from Kansas is that it is new legislation and does not appear in the regular estimates. The question of relevancy is not involved in the question of order, either directly or remotely. The President pro tempore. The Chair will submit the question of order to the Senate. Mr. Allison. Before that question is submitted I desire to ask the Chair if he understands the rule to be that the Committee on Appropriations can not add, for instance, a page to the number of pages in the Senate unless there is a prior estimate for that? Mr. Cockrell. The rule does not relate to Senate expenses. Mr. Allison. This, I suppose, is a part of the regular expenses of the Senate. If there is anything we can regulate, it seems to me we can provide for our conveni- ences; but I may be entirely mistaken. Mr. Edmunds. Will the Chair kindly state again what the point of order is? The President pro tempore. The point of order raised by the Senator from Kansas is that the item with respect to an elevator for the Senate wing of the Capitol is not in order on the ground that no estimate has been made for it by any Department; that it is a new item of appropriation not contained in any estimate. Mr. Edmunds. I hope the chair will decide it, as it has been a settled matter for twenty years. The rule has expressly for twenty years — I remember it that long — been that the question of estimates applied to amendments proposed by a Senator, that a single individual in this Chamber should not stand up and suddenly spring an amendment on any appropriation bill for which no Department had made an estimate. Then, in order to guard against the danger of that and not put everything in the hands of the Executive Department of the Government, the rule went on to provide that after having that right as to estimates, there should be a right to move amendments to carry out an existing law or treaty stipulation, or an act or resolution already passed through the Senate and not yet a law. Now, it comes to another alternative: Or unless the same be moved by direction of a standing or select committee of the Senate, or pro- posed in pursuance of an estimate of the head of some one of the Departments. Now you have got all branches of the subject. The President pro tempore. If the Senator will read the next few lines he will see the point now raised. It is not on the first clause of Rule XVI, but on the second clause, as the Chair understands. Mr. Edmunds. Then I will read the second clause: 2. All amendments to general apprupiiation bills moved by direction of a standing or select com- 952 Documentary History of the Capitol. mittee of the Senate, proposing to increase an appropriation already contained in the bill, or to add new items of appropriation, shall, at least one day before they are considered, be referred to the Com- mittee on Appropriations. I have gone far enough, I suppose, to cover the point. Mr. Plumb. Let me suggest that that amendment was not referred to the Commit- tee on Appropriations. INI r. Edmunds. That is just what I was going to say, and that is really the only point. Here is an amendment that is not estimated for by the Secretary of the Treasury, who is supposed, or has been supposed under all former administrations, and I presume under this, to have no very special concern with how the two Houses of Congress regulate their Chambers and conveniences within their own administra- tion. I suppose everybody has always agreed to that. So we come to a case where naturally there would not be and should not be an estimate from the Secretary of the Treasury as to what it was desirable the Senate should do about its contingent expenses, for instance, whether it would pay $100 to the widow of an employe who was killed by an explosion in this wing of the Capitol to bury her husband or not. It is none of his business. So, then, the rule as applied to this case comes right down to the question of whether this amendment is proposed “by direction of a standing or select committee of the Senate.” That is the only test; it is not estimated for; it is not to carry into effect a treaty or a law; it is to co-ordinate the comfort and convenience of the Senate, and that is all. Now, the amendment is moved by direction of a standing committee, it is reported by a standing committee, but it was not referred to that committee two days before, or one day before, or whatever the time required by the rule is. There is the point, and literally, but absurdly, we should be bound to hold, if we had not construed it for twenty years the other way, that if the Committee on Appropriations wished to do anything about this Senate they must first consider the proposition, report it as an amendment to a bill that they have under consideration themselves, and send it back to themselves two days before they report it, which everybody has known for twenty years is absolutely absurd. The construction of the rule has been the common-sense one for twenty years, that any committee reporting an amendment to an appropriation bill that was otherwise proper had the right to report with that bill any amendment that they saw fit to recommend, because the spirit of the rule requiring a reference of an amendment to the Committee on Appropriations was that they should have time to consider it, and nothing else. Mr. Harris. I ask for information. Has the contingent fund of the two Houses ever been estimated for, and, if so, by whom? Mr. Edmunds. I suppose not. It never ought to have been; and yet, on every side, from every committee of the Senate, for twenty years past, to my personal knowledge, amendments have been reported for which there was no estimate, and for which the rule provided that any committee had a right to call to the attention of this branch of Congress — and that is enough for us — a matter of public expendi- ture that the Department might be entirely opposed to. That is our affair. Mr. Kenna. Will the Senator from Vermont allow me to make a suggestion? Mr. Edmunds. Y es. Mr. Kenna. I desire to call the attention of the Senate to the fact that the pro- posed amendment, as recommended by the committee, was reached in the consider- ation of this bill; subjected to discussion; that one or two or three amendments to it were presented, debated, and voted down; and then, and not till then, the point of order was made against it. I submit to the Chair and to the Senate whether, with- out reference to the question he is discussing, it is not too late, after the failure of a Senator to perfect an amendment according to his own ideas, then to come in and make a point of order against it. The Extensions. 953 Mr. Edmunds. It probably and undoubtedly is too late, but I do not wish to put it on the ground of blockading the capacity of the Senate to legislate on the careful report of a committee, whether we agree to it or not, upon any proposition that a Senate committee brings to this body. I do not put my discussion of this point upon that ground, although it is a perfectly good one; but I say that the construc- tion of this rule has been for twenty years that the committee to whom other com- mittees submit amendments, having amendments of its own to propose, having considered them (which was the only object of the reference of matters from other committees), may report them with the bill, and it is within the rule. Mr. Harris. I beg to suggest to the Senator from Vermont that when he presided over the deliberations of this body, and when every other gentleman has presided over them for the last ten years, as I know, under this rule there has not been a sin- gle session of Congress that the Chair has not ruled amendments reported by the Committee on Appropriations to be out of order because they contained new legisla- tion. Our rules having formerly prescribed that the Presiding Officer of the Senate should have charge of the Senate end of the Capitol, and now that the Committee on Kules shall have control of that portion of the building, I have been seriously in doubt, and for my life I can not imagine who should make estimates for an elevator in the Capitol. I do not know what officer would be called upon to make the estimates. Mr. Edmunds. If my friend will allow me on his reference to when I was Presid- ing Officer, I undoubtedly held — I certainly ought to have held — that the Committee on Appropriations in respect to new legislation had no more authority than anybody else, than a Senator, or any other committee of the body; but it is clear to my mind, as has been held here and acquiesced in by the Senate for all these years, that an item of appropriation for an object which did not exist in the law anywhere, but which provided for an expenditure of money in the ordinary course of the Govern- ment, was not new legislation in the sense of making it obnoxious to a point of order on the ground that it was legislation. I do not understand the Senator from Kansas to make a point that this is legisla- tion on an appropriation bill, because as to the Navy, when there was a stress, we have held by acquiescence that you may provide on the naval appropriation bill for any number of new cruisers (and I wish you might provide for one hundred at the present session) — that such an amendment was not out of order on the question of legislation. Mr. Harris. I remember that decision On the new cruisers, and it was one to which I did not assent myself. I should be very glad to find ground on which this amendment is in order. Mr. Hoar. The Senator from Vermont is clearly right in holding that the rule which requires amendments to be referred to a committee and reported therefrom when it is applied to the Committee on Appropriations itself authorizes that com- mittee, in spirit though not in letter, to make reports on the bill without going through the form of a previous reference. That has been the custom, as the Senator from Vermont says everybody has known for twenty years. I should say everybody has made it known for ten years according to my knowledge. But I wish to enter a caveat against the opinion of the Senator from Vermont that it is too late to make an objection because there has been a vote in committee upon an amendment or there has been a consideration of it or there has been an amend- ment proposed to it. We are now in Committee of the Whole, and I conceive that an amendment adopted in Committee of the Whole might be held out of order, if out of order, by the Senate when the bill was reported to the Senate. Mr. Edmunds. That I admit. Mr. Hoar. So that that part of the Senator’s suggestion I do not concur with. The other seems to me very clearly right. 954 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Beck. I have observed that nothing produces so large a debate in the Senate as a point of order, and I have ascertained also after a long experience that there is but one rule that I have ever been able to understand, and that is that the Senate always does whatever a majority desires should be done, and I think this whole thing can be settled by submitting it to the Senate. The President pro tempore. The Chair is clearly of opinion that within the plain language of this rule the Committee on Appropriations have no more power to pro- pose amendments than any other committee of the body, and the inhibition in the second clause of the rule applies to the Committee on Appropriations as well as to any other committee. Clause 2 of Rule XVI provides that: 2. All amendments to general appropriation bills moved by direction of a standing or select com- mittee of the Senate, proposing to increase an appropriation already contained in the bill, or to add new items of appropriation, shall, at least one day before they are considered, be referred to the Committee on Appropriations, and when actually proposed to the bill, no amendment proposing to increase the amount stated in such amendment shall be received. But it seems to the Chair that it has always been the practice of the Senate to allow the Committee on Appropriations to report amendments, and without that power they would be limited only to the estimates made by the Departments. Such a restraint on the power of the Senate can scarcely be tolerated under our rules. Nor does the Chair believe it was the real intention of the rule to prevent the Committee on Appropriations from reporting in favor of new items of appropriation, or to increase or diminish the amount of an appropriation. Otherwise the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate would be practically limited and would be almost nuga- tory. They would have to follow the estimates of the Departments literally; they could not increase the amount, nor could they add new items. That is rather a strained construction of the rule. Therefore the Chair desires to submit the question to the Senate for a vote, whether or not it will enforce this rule, in so many words, against the Committee on Appropriations. The Chair submits the question of order to the Senate. Mr. Edmunds. Will the Chair please state precisely the question of order submitted? The President pro tempore. The question of order is: Is the amendment proposed by the Committee on Appropriations in Order? As many as are in favor of that proposition will say “aye;” the contrary “no.” [Putting the question.] The “ayes” seem to have it. The “ ayes” have it. The amendment is in order. Mr. Saulsbury. As the amendment now reported by the committee is to be sub- mitted to a vote, I shall vote against it. The present elevator was constructed on motion of the then Senator from Indiana, Mr. Morton. Prior to that time we had no elevator. Our predecessors who occupied seats here walked up and down. Now we propose to construct a second elevator. We have one elevator at this end of the Capitol. I understand they have one elevator at the House of Representatives, where there are three times the number of members there are in this body. There are twice as many people who occupy the galleries of the other House as occupy the galleries of the Senate. This amendment proposes an expense of $15,000, and then an additional expense adding two persons to the force of the Senate to run the elevator. I shall vote against the amendment. The President pro tempore. The yeas and nays will be called on the amendment. The result was announced — yeas 34, nays 15; as follows: * * * So the amendment was agreed to. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-eight, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1887. (Stats, at Large, v. 24, 526.)] Elevator for Senate wing of the Capitol: For the construction of an elevator in the south end of the eastern corridor of the Senate wing of the Capitol, fifteen thousand dollars; and the Architect of the Capitol is directed to have the same completed for use by December first, eighteen hundred and eighty-seven. The Extensions. 955 Elevator for House wing of the Capitol: For the construction of an elevator for the use of the public in the House wing of the Capitol, to be located at the south end of the western corridor and to run from the basement to the upper story, twelve thousand dollars, and the Architect is directed to have the same completed for use by Decem- ber first, eighteen hundred and eighty-seven. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-nine, and for other purposes," approved Oct. 2, 1888. (Stats, at Large, v. 25, 523.)] Steam-boilers, House wing of the Capitol: For new boilers for House wing, and for fitting up boiler vaults, and steam-pipes connected with the same, twelve thousand dollars. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and ninety, and for other purposes," approved Mar. 2, 1889. (Stats, at Large, V. 25, 958.)] Ventilation, Senate wing of the Capitol:- For constructing tower and large air-duct leading from same to Senate wing for supplying fresh air to the Senate Chamber from western grounds, similar to that already constructed for the same purpose for the House of Representatives, eight thousand dollars. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and ninety-one, and for other purposes,” approved Aug. 30, 1890. (Stats, at Large, v. 26, 388.)] To enable the Architect of the Capitol to increase the steam plant of the Senate wing by removing five old, condemned boilers, and replacing them with boilers of five-hundred horse-power capacity, of the same type as the new ones now in use, fifteen thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary. [Senate. Mis. Doc. No. 42. 52d Congress, 1st session. Jan. 17, 1892. — Referred to the Committee on Rules and ordered to be printed. The Vice-President presented the following letter from the Architect of the United States Capitol, relating to ventilation and plumbing of the Senate wing: Architect’s Office, U. S. Capitol, Washington, Ih C., January 16, 1892. Sir: In obedience to the resolution passed the Senate on the 12th instant, relating to the ventilation and plumbing of the Senate wing of the Capitol, I have the honor to report as follows: I consider the Senate chamber and corridors well ventilated; also, all of the com- mittee rooms originally constructed for that purpose. There are some apartments, formerly used as storerooms, that are now used for business purposes. These are ventilated only by the air being forced in by the fan, to find its way out by means of the openings into the corridors, through doors which are always open when the rooms are occupied. The plumbing, in my judgment, is in good condition, except in the case of that to one washstand which is now being put in order. It is true that much of the plumbing fixtures are not of the latest patterns. These might, with advantage, be changed for those of the most recent and approved styles. 956 Documentary History of the Capitol. l am not aware of any defect in the plumbing or sewerage existing within the Capitol which can unfavorably affect the sanitary condition of the building. A san- itary engineer of high reputation and experience has been called to make a careful examination of the plumbing and sewerage and report upon the same. 1 have the honor to be, your obedient servant, Edward Clark, Architect , United States Capitol. The Vice-President. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 22, 1892: Congressional Record, 52 — 1, p. 2302.] SANITARY CONDITION OF THE CAPITOL. The Vice-President. The Chair lays before the Senate a resolution coming over from a previous day, which will be read. The Chief Clerk read the resolution submitted yesterday by Mr. Butler, as follows: Resolved, That the Committee on Rules be, and it is hereby, authorized and directed to select two expert architects, at a compensation to be agreed upon by said committee and said experts, and instruct them — said architects — to make a thorough examination of the sanitary condition of the Capitol, and especially to examine the structure recently built on the terrace of the Capitol, the tunnels through which air is pumped into the two wings of the building, and report upon the condi- tion of the same, and what changes, if any, can be made to improve their condition. And further, that said expert architects be authorized and instructed to submit any suggestions or recommenda- tions as to the character of the work on the terraces, whether the same has been done in a proper manner, and in what manner the same may be improved and made habitable. And further, that said expert architects be instructed to examine and report upon the ventilation of the Senate Chamber and in what way the same may be improved. The Vice-President. The question is on agreeing to the resolution. Mr. Vest. I suggest to the Senator from South Carolina that the resolution ought to instruct the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. I understand that the jurisdiction of the Committee on Rules is as to the management of the Senate wing of the Capitol, but not as to the building itself. The Committee on Public Build- ings and Grounds has always had the jurisdiction of such matters. I am not the chairman of that committee, but in his absence I make this suggestion. Mr. Butler. T have not the slightest preference as to the committee so that the resolution may get some action. I suggested the Committee on Rules because I sup- posed that committee had taken jurisdiction of a similar resolution, but I have no objection to substituting the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. I move to amend the resolution by striking out “the Committee on Rules” and inserting “the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds;” so as to read: Resolved, That the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds be, and it is hereby, authorized and directed, etc. The Vice-President. The resolution will he so modified. The question is on agreeing to the resolution as modified. Mr. Vest. I wish to state in addition, although I do not propose to anticipate the report of these experts, that this matter has been under consideration several times by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. We have never had the assistance of any other architect than the architect of the building itself and a gentle- man who at one time filled the position of landscape architect for the grounds of the Capitol, and who was an architect of considerable eminence. I will content myself by simply saying that the result of all the investigations we have made and of all the reports we have had, has been to the effect that the defects in the ventilation of this Chamber will always continue until there is a radical change in the structure of the Chamber itself. As constructed now, it is evident to every Senator that it is a box without any access to the outside atmosphere. It is depend- The Extensions. 957 ent for ventilation to a large extent upon the air which is pumped up from the bottom of the Capitol. That air in the nature of things, as I am informed, must always be impure. In orderto bring ventilation to this Chamber it will be necessary to remove these walls and to make the Chamber an outside one. That would cost a vast amount of money, how much I am unable to state. The estimate put upon it went into more than $100,000. These walls are massive, and it would result in a reorganization of all this end of the Capitol. But I simply make these remarks in order that Senators may think about the question. Mr. Hale. Before the Senator sits down may I make an inquiry? Mr. Vest.. Certainly. Mr. Hale. I may have misunderstood the Senator, but I thought he said that necessarily the air which is pumped up from outside must be impure. Why must it be impure? Mr. Vest. Because I am informed that the air which comes from the surface adjoining the Capitol is more or less impregnated with decaying vegetable matter and with the dampness that comes from the ground. I am not prepared to speak as an expert in regard to it, but one thing I do know without being an expert, that there is not a large chamber in the United States used for similar purposes with the Senate Chamber which has worse ventilation than this chamber now has, and it must come from the fact that the air is to a certain extent impure. Mr. Hale. I had always understood that one thing claimed for this method of our getting air is that we are sure to get pure, sweet air. It comes from the outside, not from any place where there is a marsh or a bog but from high ground, with a plain slope where all moisture runs off, and if there is any good air it must be there. Mr. Dawes. From how near the ground is it taken? Mr. Hale. I do not know from how near the ground it is taken, but even if it is near the ground, if there is any good air anywhere on Capitol Hill it ought to be there. Mr. Butler. If the Senator will allow me, I will state my reason for introducing the resolution. I of course do not speak as an expert, because I have no expert knowledge, but I do know, and I think every other Senator will agree with me, that there is something wrong about this Chamber. There is no doubt about the fact that there is something wrong about the ventilation, and there must have been something wrong about the. structure of the rooms on the terrace. I happened to be in the city of Washington last summer and I went down there with a view of trying to get a committee room. I looked through the various apart- ments, and they were uninhabitable. Now, they are not built underground; on the contrary, they are on top of the ground; but the moisture there is so dense and intense that it is impossible to live in them. It is impossible to put any articles in them for preservation. I discovered that one of them, newly built, was leaking. In my peregrinations down in the labyrinths of the lower part of the Capitol, I went down into the tunnel through which all the air is pumped into this Chamber, and I found it in a state of dampness and moisture that must make the air impure when it comes to us. There is a stream of water running right down the bottom of it. The walls were saturated with moisture on both sides. It seemed to me that that could be prevented — it seems to me now that it could be prevented — by some method; what, I confess I do not know; but the tunnel through which the air comes, to which the Senator from Maine refers, ought to be as clean and as pure as possible; whitewash or some disinfectant ought to lie tried in some way; but it is not; whether resulting from defect in the structure or some other defect, of course I can not undertake to say. It is very well known that at the end of the tunnel there is a tower, I suppose 15 or 20 feet high. I understand that the air comes in at the top of that tower and is then drawn into the Senate Chamber by a 958 Documentary History of the Capitol. great fan, and it is claimed that we get the purest air there is. That seems to me to be unreasonable. The same difficulty existed in a large measure with the Hall of the House of Rep- resentatives. They went to work on that side and took down the wall in the rear of the Speaker’s chair. I have never been able to understand why the wall in the rear of the President’s chair may not be taken down and arched without such an enormous expense. If the wall that separates the lobby from the Marble Room were taken down, that would be some improvement, it seems to me. The rooms that I speak of, I forget how many, forty or fifty perhaps, have been made there in the terrace, and they ought to be inhabitable rooms; but I do not think one of them is. 1 believe my friend the Senator from Iowa [Mr. Allison] had a room down there, and he had to abandon it on account of the dampness. I was shown into it, and I discovered the dampness on the wall. I do not know that that is the reason why he abandoned it, but I am quite sure that, he did get out, and nobody has got into it since. Now, I should like to have the opinion of some architect or of two architects who are not interested in the building of the terrace or in the sanitary condition of the Capitol particularly, and get their report, and see if something can not be done. Mr. Allison. If the Senator will yield to me a moment, I wish to say that the par- ticular room of which he speaks I abandoned because I was able to secure a better one for the use of the Committee on Appropriations; but I understand that it is occu- pied now by a committee of this body, and is a very comfortable room. Mr. Butler. 1 do not know; I discovered that it was vacated by the Senator from Iowa, and I supposed it was because it was damp. Mr. Voorhees. I ask that the resolution be again read. The resolution was read. Mr. Blackburn. Mr. President, I have no objection to the adoption of the resolu- tion, but I think that the Senator from South Carolina is seeking to remedy an evil which is without remedy. His criticisms upon the rooms known as the terrace rooms must, I am sure, be predicated upon an observation made some time ago when they 'were but hardly completed. I have a room in the terrace, and I do not believe that there are better ventilated, better lighted, purer, or healthier rooms in all this Capitol, than that terrace furnishes. Mr. Butler. May I ask the Senator if he is referring to the rooms on the opposite side of the gallery to the one he occupies, or the ones on this side where they have windows and ventilation and light? Mr. Blackburn. Mr. President, as a member of the Committee on Rules 1 have gone into all these rooms, for it is the business of that committee to advise the Sen- ate, as it has charge of this wing of the Capitol building. I know it took some time for those rooms to dry out after they were constructed, but in my judgment they are to-day as healthy, as well ventilated, as well lighted, and as desirable, except for their remoteness of position, as any committee rooms in this Chamber or that belong to this wing of the Capitol. So far as the Senator’s criticisms go as to the lack of ventilation of this Chamber, we all know where the fault lies. It lies in the very plan upon which this Chamber was constructed. The Hall of the House and the Chamber of the Senate are both casemates; they are houses built inside of houses; they are boxes, as the Senator from Missouri [Mr. Vest] suggests. They have no surface front at all; your corri- dors stretch all around them; you have committee rooms outside of the corridors, and the only light you get is through the triple plate-glass roof above you; the only air you get is pumped up through the gratings in your floor. That is the fault of the Architect of the Capitol Extension, and a great and grievous fault it is. You had better build a wigwam with planks set up on end, with windows cut by a saw in order to get the fresh air of heaven. But the air tubes through which we bring into The Extensions. 959 this Chamber and into the Hall of the House the air that is breathed by the mem- bers of the two bodies in my judgment are as well devised and as efficient and as good as it is possible for any committee to suggest or devise. So far as these additional rooms in the terrace are concerned, I have no hesitation in asserting that they are as well lighted, infinitely better lighted, better ventilated, and healthier than the Chamber in which we sit or the Chamber in which the other House holds its sessions. Now, Mr. President, this is not the first time that our attention has been called, and that recently, to the sanitary condition of this Capitol building. The Senator from Maine [Mr. Hale] was induced, and very properly, to introduce a resolution here not long ago directing an inquiry to be made and investigation had as to the sewerage of this wing of the Capitol. The health officer of this District called atten- tion to it and said that it was miserable and indefensible. The resolution introduced by the Senator from Maine was sent to the Committee on Rules, and that committee took charge of it and inquired into it, and it was found to be a scare without cause. As to the sewerage of this building, as proven by the testimony of the best experts in the country, as to its ventilation, and as to its lighting, they are to-day as good as it is possible to make them unless you remodel your structure and give to your two Chambers surface fronts. Mr. Butler. Do I understand my friend to apply his remarks to all of the com- mittee, rooms down here? Mr. Blackburn. In the terrace? Mr. Butler. Yes, about the terrace. Mr. Blackburn. To every one of them. Mr. Butler. I think, Mr. President, there must have been wonderful progress made since I w r as there. Mr. Blackburn. I allude to every one that is occupied to-day. Mr. Butler. Ah! There are about forty that are not occupied because they can not be. That is exactly what I am talking about. Mr. Blackburn. It was known when they were constructed that they would not and never could be occupied. Mr. Butler. Then some architect ought to be arraigned and tried for felony if he spent so much money for rooms which can not be occupied by anybody. Mr. Blackburn. The Architect of the Capitol Extension of the House and Senate wings is dead. I have no criticisms to pass upon him. If he made a mistake in constructing the Hall of the House and the Chamber of the Senate, that is our misfortune. So far as the terrace addition to the Capitol is concerned, I undertake to say that no architect could have utilized the space that was afforded to better advantage or have done it better than the proof shows that the Architect of the Capitol did in the construction of these wings and of these terrace buildings of which this resolution complains. The Committee on Appropriations, on the floor of this Chamber, and the Com- mittee on Finance, on this same floor, have no better lighted, have no better ven- tilated, have no healthier, no drier, no better quarters than the terrace rooms which are occupied by, I think, seventeen committees of this Chamber right now. Mr. Butler. I am delighted to hear the Senator from Kentucky pay such a glow- ing tribute to these rooms; but, as I stated, during the last summer I happened to be in that neighborhood, and my recollection is that I was informed there were forty of those rooms that had not been finished. Mr. Blackburn. Will the Senator from South Carolina allow 7 me to ask a question? Mr. Butler. Certainly. Mr. Bl ackburn. I inquire whether those unoccupied rooms in the terrace were not constructed for the purpose of storage, and not for the purpose of occupancy by com- mittees of the Senate? Documentary History of the Capitol. 960 Mr. Butler. 1 really am unable to answer that question. Mr. Blackburn. If the Senator will permit me, I will answer it for him, and say it was so. Mr. Butler. That being true, I will venture to make the assertion that there is not one of them which can be used for storage — not one. Mr. Blackburn. They are being used to-day. Mr. Butler. The dampness is so great there that I was informed — I do not know anything about it personally— that nothing can be put into the rooms. I undertake to say that I went into one of those rooms on the outside very nearly opposite, I believe, to the room occupied by the Senator from Kentucky, and I discovered a stream of water running down one of the pipes. The roof had been improperly constructed. Mr. Chandler. Will the Senator allow me a single inquiry? Does the Senator refer to the outside rooms entirely? Mr. Butler. I am referring to all of the rooms. The Senator from Kentucky says that the resolution complains of the rooms on the terrace. The resolution makes no complaint; it is simply one of inquiry, and I should be delighted to have the report from some disinterested expert to the effect that the rooms had been properly con- structed and that they are habitable, and that they are the best rooms in this Capitol, but I do not believe that any expert living will say so. Mr. Chandler. I agree that this resolution ought to pass, but I am not willing to join in an indiscriminate condemnation of these rooms. The rooms, I will say to the Senator from South Carolina, which have been fitted up and occupied for committee rooms, are fairly good rooms. There is some dampness about them, but they seem to be gradually drying out, and I have no words of con- demnation to utter in connection with those terrace rooms. But, Mr. President, I think this resolution ought to pass. If I remember rightly, when the answer was made to the resolution which was passed at this session, introduced by the Senator from Maine [Mr. Hale], it was distinctly stated that there ought to be some changes made in the drainage of the Senate wing of the Capitol, which, it was stated, could not be made while Congress was in session. I supposed, therefore, that those changes would be made during the coming summer after the adjournment of Congress. I believe those changes should be made, and I think that they should be made after the most careful investigation and the best advice that can be obtained upon the subject. I understand the scope of the resolution of the Senator from South Carolina, the first clause of which is that experts shall make a thorough examination of the sanitary condition of the Capitol, to be broad enough to enable these architects to advise as to how the whole drainage of the Senate wing shall be renovated. If that be so, I think the resolution is an important one, and I think that it would be a mistake, without very good advice, to go on and tear open the drainage below us and undertake to substi- tute a different system of drainage. I should be unwillingfor one to see it attempted until after the advice had been obtained of two architects, exactly as indicated by the Senator in his resolution, and I take it that a very important object will be accomplished if that investigation can be made, and it ought to be made now. There is none too much time in which to make it in order that the responsible authority which is to engage in the work of reconstructing the drainage of this wing of the Capitol may have all the advice that it is possible to obtain. Therefore I hope that the resolution will pass. I noticed, Mr. President, that the resolution was introduced yesterday as a resolu- tion of instruction to the Committee on Rules. Mr. Butler. The resolution has been modified in that respect. Mr. Chandler. Do I understand the Senator now prefers that the supervision of this investigation shall be made by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds? The Extensions. 961 The Vice-President. The resolution has been so modified. Mr. Butler. I modified the resolution at the suggestion of the Senator from Missouri [Mr. Vest], on the statement from him that that committee had general jurisdiction of the whole Capitol building, whereas the Committee on Rules only had authority to determine the location of the committees, etc., and I thought perhaps there was something in that, and therefore I consented to that change, with the assurance of the Senator from Missouri that those architects would be appointed at once. Mr. Call. I ask the Senator from South Carolina if he would have any objection to adding to the two architects designated by him the inspector of plumbing of the Dis- trict of Columbia? He is known to a great many Senators here to be perhaps the most accomplished man in all sanitary matters in this District, and for that reason I make the suggestion. Mr. Butler. I have not the slightest objection, but the committee should select whomever they think proper, and I have not undertaken in the resolution to desig- nate the persons to be selected by the committee. Therefore I think it would be entirely too premature Mr. Call. I suggest to the Senator that the inspector of plumbing is not an archi- tect, and the resolution authorizes the committee to employ only two architects. Mr. Butler. Very well. I take it for granted the architects will employ such assistants as they please; but we can not designate anybody to attend to this busi- ness. The Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds should do that. Mr. Call. I suggest to the Senator to amend the resolution by providing for one architect and one expert on sanitation. Mr. Butler. I hope that will not be adopted. Mr. Blackburn. I move that the resolution be referred to the Committee on Rules. Mr. Butler. 1 trust that will not be done. I see no reason for defeating the reso- lution in that way. I certainly object to the amendment offered by the Senator from Florida [Mr. Call] . If this gentleman is such an expert as the Senator states, as I have no doubt he is, the committee, I dare say, will employ him. Mr. Call. The committee would not have authority to employ him under the resolution. Mr. Blackburn. I object to the present consideration of the resolution. The Vice-President. The resolution is before the Senate, and one objection does not carry it over. Mr. Blackburn. Then I move its reference to the Committee on Rules. Mr. Cali.. I withdraw the amendment I suggested. The Vice-President. The question is on agreeing to the resolution as modified. Mr. Blackburn. 1 move its reference to the Committee on Rules. The Vice-President. Does the Chair understand that the amendment offered by the Senator from Florida is withdrawn? Mr. Call. That is withdrawn. The Vice-President. The amendment of the Senator from Florida is withdrawn, and the question is on the resolution as modified. Mr. Blackburn. I move to refer the resolution with the amendments to the Com- mittee on Rules. The Vice-President. There are no amendments pending. The question is on the resolution as modified. Mr. Voorhees. There has been a tone of remark, Mr. President, in regard to the construction of this Capitol, that I think ought not to be left without a word on that subject. Mr. Walter, who was the architect of the extension of the Capitol, is dead, as has been announced, but he leaves those who were close to him and who cherish bis fame, and justly so, as one of the great architects of the world in his time. To H. Rep. 646 61 962 Documentary History of the Capitol. denounce him as deserving censure because this building has faults, is very unjust and to my mind not warranted. There were Committees on Public Buildings and Grounds in those days as now. No one man is responsible for the structure of this building. The architect had no more to do with its form, dimensions, and manner of structure than any other archi- tect whose work is submitted to a committee and adopted by that committee. It happens that I have been connected with the Public Buildings Committee for ten or eleven years, and during that time have inspected hundreds of designs with reference to the construction of the new Library building. It was at last the design that we adopted by which that building is now going up in view of this Capitol. So with the construction of the Capitol. Mr. Walter and other architects submitted to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, at that time, their designs, their plans, their views, and it will be curious now and entertaining to go back and look at the names of the men who were upon the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds at that time. I am not one of those men who believe in the degeneracy of the race or that the Senators of to-day are less able than those of times gone by; but there are names connected with the construction of this building as committeemen which adorn American history quite as much as any known to that history. The criticism passed upon Mr. Walter in his grave should be shared with a large number of other men, members of this body and members of the lower House. This building did not spring up in a night; it was not the creation of a day; it was not the growth of a brief period; it was handled and canvassed from year to year and rose here in accord- ance with plans and designs most thoroughly scrutinized and carefully matured. Now, Mr. President, in regard to the building itself for a moment, I of course have the least possible pretension to a knowledge of architecture, although my duties as Senator have thrown me in connection with that subject to a considerable extent. I believe — and if I am in error I shall stand corrected — there is no government public building in the world where legislative bodies sit but what is an inside structure as this is. There is no legislative body, as I am informed, anywhere on the globe that sits against an outside wall. How could it be done here? An outside wall would have to have its windows, its lights, and in periods of great excitement we should have a multitude crowded around the windows and doors of an outside hall and we immediately inside. I believe some Senator, whether it was the Senator from Kentucky [Mr. Black- burn] or the Senator from Missouri [Mr. Vest] or the Senator from South Carolina [Mr. Butler], suggested the building of a wigwam. Mr. Butler. I did not. Mr. Voorhees. 1 believe the Senator did not. Mr. Blackburn. I said it would be better than this. Mr. Voorhee*. I do not think so. I have spoken in wigwams. I have canvassed in political campaigns when excitement filled what we call wigwams, temporary structures for political meetings. Certainly, Mr. President, the grave business of the United States of America could not be transacted in one of them with a multitude around shouting praises and peans to political favorites as they listen to their voices through the windows that alone screen them from the outside public. In other words, if I am correct, the structure of this building is a necessity; the form in which it was made is made a necessity by the exigencies of government and by the princi- ples of human nature. If it carries with it certain deprivations, if it carries with it certain trials, if it carries with it certain personal sacrifices, they have to be endured. I do not expect in here, nor could any man expect, the sweet air of the prairies to be wafted to our olfactories over beds of flowers. We can not expect that. We are not in the open air. We are here for a duty, and to my mind this building is as well constructed for the discharge of the duties intrusted to our hands as is possible. The Extensions. 963 A word more as to the ventilation of this building. I have been in this Capitol many years, in both ends of it, and I have looked at the great machinery that gathers up with a mighty suction the outside atmosphere and hurls it in tremendous volumes through these hallways, through these chambers, and through these gal- leries, and I can not for the life of me conceive a want of air. As I say, it may not be as fresh as from a bed of violets, but still it is fresh air. The best evidence of that is that I have known gentlemen here — and gentlemen with no great physical superiority — stand upon this floor three and four hours at a time and resume the next day with unimpaired lung vigor. That can not be done where there is a poisoned atmosphere. Let any gentleman rise in a hall where the atmosphere is poisonous and he will sink down as if asphyxiated. Gentlemen will speak with as much ease here as in the average building wherever you go to make addresses throughout the United States. There is hardly a State from the north end. of New England to the Gulf of Mexico in which I have not addressed the people, and I have found as little difficulty in speaking with readiness and with a reasonable amount of voice in this building as anywhere else in the world. Mr. President, we are prone to pessimistic views. Overwork, tired, late hours, resulting in a headache and disordered stomach, dizzy and weary, we look around for some object to vent our spleen upon, and commence abusing this beautiful Hall in which we stand. I have had my periods of ill health as well as others; I am thankful to my Father in heaven that 1 feel that I am improving day by day, but at the worst and lowest ebb I never thought that I was killed because I breathed the air of the Senate of the United States. I would not have risen at all, Mr. President, but that I have a kind and tender affection for the memory of Thomas U. Walter and his family, and whatever faults there may be here I think they are but light and rest lightly on his grave. They should not rest there at all. I desire the adoption of the resolution of the Senator from South Carolina. Let sanitary engineering go on here — that is the proper word in connection with exam- ining the ventilation of the building — let sanitary engineers go to work here and see what is necessary, if anything is necessary. Sanitary engineering is an old science. It antedates the Christian era a thousand years and goes back to the architecture of Rome; it examined cellars and foundations there, and it is well known to experienced architects. Let that be done under the resolution of the Senator from South Caro- lina, and we shall all be benefited by the knowledge which will be obtained. This much I felt I ought to say. Mr. Butler. One moment. I shall not take up any time of the Senate, Mr. Presi- dent, but my distinguished friend from Indiana has certainly set up a man of straw to knock him down if he referred to anything that fell from me, because I have not made the slightest reflection upon the architects of the Capitol, past or present. Mr. Voorhees. No, you have not. Mr. Butler. I have always had great admiration for the character of this build- ing, but I can hear on all sides, almost every day of my life, from Senators and employes of this body that there is some defect in the ventilation. What that is I confess I do not know. As I said before, I have made no reflections upon the present Architect of the Cap- itol, but it certainly is entirely competent for the Senate of the United States, where millions and millions — I do not believe I exaggerate when I say millions and millions of dollars have been expended in the construction of additions to this Cap- itol — to have that matter investigated and improved upon, if possible. The Senator from Kentucky [Mr. Blackburn] says that we have in the terrace lovely, charming, beautiful rooms. I trust that the architects will so report; nobody will be more grati- fied than myself if that- be true; but he will excuse me for saying that- 1 think per- haps I might venture to compare my judgment with his as to what constitutes an Documentary IHstory of the Capital. 964 attractive and habitable room, and I am quite sure that a very large number of these rooms are uninhabitable, and I do not think as at present constructed they will ever be habitable either for human beings or for storage purposes. 1 do not believe that a frog could live in some of them in their present condition. A great deal of money has been spent there. I simply want these architects and experts to go and examine and report to the Senate upon the condition of the committee rooms in the terrace, and upon the condition of the tunnel through which the air is pumped into this Chamber, and let them say whether its condition can be improved or not. If it can be, I think it is the duty of the Senate to have that improvement made. If it can not be, I suppose I can endure the defective ventilation as -well as any Senator here; but I made no reflection upon anybody and did not intend to make any. The Yice-Pkesident. The motion made by the Senator from Kentucky [Mr. Blackburn] to refer the resolution to the Committee on Rules will be considered as agreed to if there be no objection. Mr. Butler. I hope that will not be done. Mr. Blackburn. As the Committee on Rules is charged with the custody of this wing of the Capitol building, I can not for my life see why this resolution should not go to that committee for consideration. If every Senator is going to exercise his pleasure and get up here every morning and offer resolutions imposing investigations and inquiries looking to improvements that are exclusively within the hands of that committee without its being allowed or furnished an opportunity to pass upon the question, there is no end to the trouble. I have no objection to the adoption of the resolution of the Senator from South Carolina; I do not think there is anything in it; I think it is another scare like many that we have had before it; means nothing, and nothing will come of it in my judg- ment; but you have a committee of this Chamber charged with the custody and con- duct of the business that pertains to this wing of the Capitol. Now, if the Senator wants anything done in that direction, I fail to understand why he objects to the committee that is charged with this duty having an opportunity to pass upon it. Mr. Butler. If the Senator will pardon me for saying not as usual, but certainly this morning — if he will excuse me for a little slang — I think he has gone off on half cock entirely. Mr. Blackburn. I do not need to say it of the Senator from South Carolina, be- cause the Senate reads that in his resolution. Mr. Butler. The Senator certainly has not considered what has been done. The resolution as originally drafted referred the matter to the Committee on Rules, but I yielded to the suggestion of the Senator from Missouri [Mr. Vest] to send it to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, so that what the Senator from Ken- tucky says about resolutions being introduced every morning has no application to me. Mr. Blackburn. Except as to this morning. Mr. Butler. The Senator is off again. Yesterday morning I introduced a resolu- tion. I do not generally burden the Senate with many resolutions, but this seemed an important matter, and I can see no earthly reason for its going to the Committee on Rules. The Senate can judge of the advisability of passing the resolution or not. If they do not choose to pass it, let them vote it down. If it goes to the Committee on Rules, the chances are it will be pigeon-holed. Mr. Blackburn. I should be glad if the Senator from South Carolina would make good the imputation he has put upon that committee by referring to a single resolu- tion in all the history of this Senate Chamber wherein the Committee on Rules has pigeon-holed anything. Mr. Butler. Put' haps they want to establish a precedent in this resolution, Mr. President. The Extension s. 965 Mr. Blackburn. Mr. President, if there was an excuse for the establishment of a precedent, I think it would be found in this very resolution that the Senator offers. I have no objection to any investigation or any inquiry, but I do insist that it should be conducted orderly and with due deference and respect to this Chamber and its organization; and for that reason I moved to refer what to my mind is a very trivial suggestion of an inquiry that has wasted more time of the Senate than the results would ever warrant to the Committee on Rules, where the resolution prop- erly belongs. Mr. Vest. Mr. President, as I am responsible for the change in the resolution of the Senator from South Carolina, I want to state very frankly why I made the sug- gestion. It is not a matter of life or death or of great parliamentary importance, but still it is well enough to understand exactly what we are doing about this matter. I have always thought the jurisdiction of the Committee on Rules extended to the management of the Senate wing of the Capitol, and the jurisdiction of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds went to a change, if any was necessary, in the structure of the building. The committee on rules certainly has not jurisdiction of public buildings and grounds. If it has, then we have one committee too many and the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds ought to be struck from the roll of committees. In the absence of the chairman of that committee, I made this sugges- tion. This is a question as to changing or as to examining into the structure of the building to find what defects it has, if any. It is not a question of rules governing the Senate. Therefore, I think the suggestion was pertinent and proper that the change should be made. It is immaterial to me, but in the absence of the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds I felt it my duty to make that suggestion. The Vice-President. The question is on the motion of the Senator from Kentucky that the resolution as modified be referred to the Committee on Rules [putting the question]. The Chair is unable to decide. Mr. Hawley. Mr. President, I think the motion is not understood. The Vice-President. The motion made by the Senator from Kentucky is to refer the resolution as modified to the Committee on Rules. The Chair will put the ques- tion again. The motion was not agreed to. The V ice- President. The question now is on agreeing to the resolution as modified. The resolution as modified was agreed to. [Senate Report No. 880, 52d Congress, 1st session. July 5, 1892, referred to the Committee on Appro- priations and ordered to be printed.] Mr. Vest, from the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, presented the following report: On the examination of the sanitary condition of the Capitol undei* Senate resolutions of March 22 and April 12, 1892. In pursuance of Senate resolution adopted March 23, 1892, authorizing and direct- ing the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds to select and employ, for an agreed compensation, two expert architects for the purpose of having them make a thorough examination of the sanitary condition of the Capitol, and especially to examine the structure recently built on the terrace, and the tunnels through which air is pumped into the two wings of the building, and to make suggestions upon the condition of the Capitol, and what changes can be made to improve the same, submit the following report: Assuming under the terms of the resolution it was intended that the best attainable expert talent should be secured, the committee employed Col. George E. Waring, of Documentary History of the Capitol. 966 Newport, R. I., and Dr. A. C. Abbott, of the University of Pennsylvania, the former at an agreed compensation of $2,500, and the latter for the sum of $25 for each day of actual service, and the traveling and personal expenses of tnemselves and their assistants; the entire cost of the work, which has been thorough, and has continued for ten weeks, being $4,786.63. With the gentlemen named was associated Col. John S. Billings, Assistant Surgeon-General, who, as an officer of the Government, made no charge for his services. VENTILATION OF THE SENATE CHAMBER. The report of Dr. Abbott, herewith tiled, is accompanied by charts, showing the result of aerial analysis made in different parts of the Senate Chamber, both when the Senate was empty and in session. It appears from these charts that the air pumped into the chamber is reasonably pure, but that the impurity increases after it comes into the chamber, and that in certain parts of the room this impurity is for some reason largely increased. The greatest impurity is found in the northeast corner and in the galleries. The conclusion reached by the experts is that no radical changes in the structure of the chamber should be made, but that the openings for admitting air from the fans, both to the floor and galleries, should be enlarged; that these increased open- ings should be made around the sides of the room by cutting away the useless iron filigree work which obstructs the overhanging brackets on the sides of the walls. In the northeast corner of the chamber, where the largest impurity of air is found, the openings should lie restored which were closed on account of drafts. By using valves this can be done without discomfort to Senators occupying seats in that vicinity. To supply the galleries with a greater quantity of fresh air two new vertical ducts should be constructed in the walls to supply the north side, and the risers of the seats should be filled with gratings. The experts also recommend the construction of a wooden screen with sliding doors in the main air duct after it leaves the coils, so that a special supply of cooler air can be sent to the gallery. They also recommend that the opening on the cham- ber side of the heaters should lie enlarged by cutting the piers so as to give as much additional area to the opening as possible. The estimated cost of these changes in the Senate Chamber is $3,000. THE SENATE COMMITTEE ROOMS. The ventilation of the Senate committee rooms, as shown by chart 5, was found to be very defective and unsatisfactory, but this comes largely from the failure to use the means provided for ventilation. There is no systematic or skilled supervision of the aeration or ventilation of the committee rooms. They are filled with the odor of stale tobacco smoke, which can only be expelled by thorough ventilation and by opening the windows each day, but there is no systematic attention to this simple remedy. The largest amount of impure air was found in the room of the District of Columbia Committee and the Secretary’s office. The temperature of the committee rooms is exceedingly irregular, and the coils, instead of being arranged separately for each room, are constructed for heating two or more rooms by the same coil, so that the temperature of one room can not be changed without changing that of others. To remedy existing defects the brick piers in vffiich the coils are encased should be taken down and a separate coil given to each room, the entire alteration costing $5,000. The Extensions. 967 COMMITTEE ROOMS ON TERRACE. The analysis made by Dr. Abbott did not show as much impurity in the air of the terrace rooms as in those of the main building. The ventilation is satisfactory, although it will be at least a year before the masonry in the terrace structure is thoroughly dried. It is recommended by the experts that the inlets for fresh air to the terrace rooms should be placed 8 or 10 feet above the floor, and that the valves be removed from the foul-air registers. The estimated cost of these changes is $800. SYSTEMATIC VENTILATION. The experts earnestly recommend that the ventilation of the Senate chamber, cloak rooms, and galleries, should be under the exclusive supervision and control of the engineer, so that the sporadic habit now obtaining of having a grating closed by placing carpeting over it, at the instance of some official, should be stopped. In this the committee fully concur, for it is evident that regular and systematic ventilation can only be obtained by placing the matter under the control of an intelligent officer, who will be responsible for the result. DRAINAGE OF THE CAPITOL. A thorough and elaborate examination of the sewers which carry off the drainage of the Capitol was made by the experts, as will appear from their report herewith filed. The main sewer of the original Capitol, the center building, is 2 feet high and 3 feet wide, and the sewers of the wings are 3 feet 6 inches wide and 5 feet high. Until the construction of the air duct of the Senate wing, the three sewers united, and continued in a southwesterly direction to the sewerage system of the city. After the air ducts were built that of the House wing was carried across the sewer, and that of the Senate was cut off and a trap placed at that point. The sewer was then continued by a 30-inch terra cotta pipe in a northwesterly direction to the city sewerage. These sewers receive the rain water from the roof, the waste water from the elevator tanks, the water used in washing the floors, clean waste water from sinks, and the entire foul drainage of the building. The original interior drainage sytem of each building having been inaugurated ninety and forty years ago when the buildings were constructed, and the waste pipes being built into the walls beyond examination, it is impossible to know their condi- tion. It can be safely inferred, however, from the inferior plumbing which then obtained, and the fact that the pipes were made of iron, that they are greatly impaired by rust, if not absolutely destroyed. The experts report that “the drainage of the whole building is without plan or system, and is to be regarded as a patchwork of make-shift devices more or less good according to the quality of the best plumbing work done at the time of construction.” The only pipes which reach the outer air are the rain-water leaders. All waste pipes within the building terminate at their upper fixtures, and all are trapped before entering the sewer, so that they are entirely unventilated. The experts declare that the defects incident to such a system of sewerage would be fatal to an ordinary building. The bad effect is much modified in the case of the Capitol because of the constant exhaust produced by the fire flues, and because of the very perfect system of artificial ventilation to which the building is subjected by the forcing and exhausting fans. These influences do not entirely remove the 968 Documentary History of the Capitol. danger, and the general conclusion must be reached that the whole system of drainage is not at all in accord with the status of modern sanitary knowledge. The following is the concluding sentence of that part of the report which relates to drainage: We therefore pronounce the whole drainage system of the Capitol, so far as it relates to the removal of foul wastes, to be wrong in principle, imperfect in detail, and without the safeguards which universal modern practice accepts as of the first necessity. The. experts recommend that the brick sewers be improved and relegated to the double service of carrying off rain water from the roofs, courts, and terraces, and the water from the elevator tanks, and melting ice or snow, and that all foul drainage be withheld from them. That within each sewer and attached to its walls, there be constructed a waste pipe 8 inches in diameter, passing beyond the traps of the sewers, and that on the House side of these traps inlet pipes of 8 inches or more in diameter be carried to or above the surface of the ground to furnish fresh air for the ventilation of the entire drainage system. They also recommend that all of the present soil and waste pipes be abandoned and closed up; that the present fixtures, at least in most cases, be removed; that these waste pipes be carried up through the roof of the building, without traps or Obstructions, and that they be supplied with modern fixtures, each fixture to be trapped off from the waste pipe, the work generally to be done in conformity with the best plumbing work of the day. The cost, is estimated at $25,817.40 for the plumbing of the Senate wing; $29,071.29 for the plumbing of the House wing; $12,787.37 for the plumbing of the central build- ing; and $500 for the necessary repairs and improvements of the main sewers, being a total of $68,126.06. KITCHEN SEWER ON SENATE WING. As a specimen of the present inadequate sewerage, the experts call attention to the fact that there were recently taken from the branch brick sewer, which leads from the kitchen of the Senate restaurant, five wheelbarrow loads of grease, entrance being made through the only manhole on the main sewer at the point where the kitchen sewer enters. PLUMBING FIXTURES. There are one hundred and twenty bowls, baths, sinks, water-closets and urinals on the Senate side, nearly all of which are defective in either construction or connections. The experts say in their report: So few of the fixtures of the Capitol conform to the requirements of modern sanitary plumbing that substantially all should be removed as essential to the purification of the atmosphere of the building, where in spite of the good general ventilation there are not a few places pervaded by a distinct drainage smell. They report that the method of connecting fixtures with waste pipes, traps, etc., is also defective, and give many illustrations of this in different rooms. There is no thorough pipe ventilation and the traps are generally defective. In some of the committee rooms the air seemed to be tainted, and in one committee room, that of Public Buildings and Grounds, the water-closet is in a tight closet and necessarily produces foul odor. The urinals are so arranged as to make it impossible to prevent bad smells and foul air. SOUTH WING (HOUSE). The experts report the sewers on the House side of the Capitol to be in better con- dition than those on the Senate wing, but they recommend repairs where the branch sewers enter the main sewer. The Extensions. 969 PLUMBING FIXTURES. In the west cloak room of the House the experts report the plumbing to be very defective, there being only one trap used for two or three fixtures, leaving a con- siderable length of slimy waste pipe free to exhale its odors into the room. In the east cloak room it is still worse, as the connecting pipe is larger and has more fouling surface. In the closet adjoining the room of the Military Affairs Committee of the House the urinal and water-closet are defective, and there is a very bad smell. In the room adjoining the committee room of Foreign Affairs there is a pan water- closet, which is not admissible even in a well-ventilated apartment. PIPE VENTILATION. The same defects as to want of ventilation for the waste pipes is found on the House side as on the Senate wing, and the defects are specially pointed out in the report of the experts. The traps and pipe connections are better than those on the Senate side, but the experts suggest that the House restaurant, having been once used as a bathroom, and all the fixtures having been cut off except the basin, it would be well to make sure that they are all properly closed, which could only be done by taking up the floor. There are upon the House side of the Capitol 151 bowls, baths, sinks, water-closets, and urinals. CENTRAL BUILDING. The experts make no special criticism on the sewerage of the central or old Capitol building, except as contained in their general remarks on the whole sewerage system of the Capitol hereinbefore set forth. The plumbing, however, as might be expected from the age of the building, is not in accordance with modern methods. The water-closets and urinals smell badly, and need immediate change. Of the Supreme Court toilet room the experts say: The Supreme Court toilet room is a sanitary curiosity. It has a urinal which is said to be trapped, but the trap could not be seen. Also an iron sink closely incased beneath, so that it could not be examined. Also five washout water-closets, flushed from overhead and probably modern. The amazing feature is that the wastes of this room deliver into a vertical brick shaft, at least 35 feet deep, connected with the head of the old sewer. A 10-inch rain-leader pipe also enters into the top of this shaft. During rains, no doubt, portions of the walls and the floor of this shaft are cleansed, but in the absence of rain the walls, the floor, and the connecting sewer must be in very foul condition. The effect of this condition is doubtless mitigated by ventilation through the rain-leader, but the whole arrangement, so far as outlet is concerned, is as bad as it well can be. PIPE VENTILATION AND TRAPS. The waste pipes in the central building are unventilated and subject to all the criticism placed by the experts upon those of the Capitol wings. As to the traps and pipe connection, they were found defective in many instances and in some could not be examined. There are in the central building fifty-eight bowls, baths, sinks, water-closets, and urinals. TERRACE. The sewerage and plumbing of the rooms on the terrace, both on the Senate and House wings, are thoroughly discussed by the experts in their report, but it is enough to say that while improvements are suggested, the recent date at which the terrace work was done has secured the modern and improved conditions which were not possible when the main buildings were constructed. 970 Documentary History of the Capitol. SENATE RESTAURANT. It is earnestly recommended by the experts that the kitchen of the Senate restau- rant should be enlarged and remodeled. As now arranged it is contracted, dark, badly ventilated, and necessarily produc- tive of sanitary conditions which are not conducive to health. The plan submitted in detail by the experts will give additional room, more light, and more healthful surroundings. The estimated cost of the improvement and of necessary fixtures is $14,570. In submitting t heir report the committee beg leave to state that no labor has been spared to have the work intrusted to them faithfully and thoroughly done, and if nothing else has been or will be accomplished it is yet a matter of sincere congratu- lation that the real sanitary condition of the Capitol with all details of construction has been placed on record from the careful and scientific examination of the most accomplished experts in this country if not in the world. REPORTS OF EXPERTS. * [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and ninety-three, and for other purposes,” approved Aug. 5, 1892. (Stats, at Large, v. 27, 367.)] For improving ventilation of the Senate Chamber and of Senate committee rooms, improving drainage of central portion of the Capitol, and of the north and south wings, and making improvements and addition to kitchen of Senate restaurant, and to coal and fuel bins in Senate wing, ninety-seven thousand four hundred and ninety-six dollars and six cents; said amount to be expended under the direction of the Architect of the Capitol in accordance with the plans and specifications adopted by Colonel George E. Waring, junior, and Doctor John S. Billings, as set forth by the reports made by them under the Senate resolution of April twelfth, eighteen hundred and ninety-two, ordering an investigation and report by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds of the sanitary condition of the Senate Chamber and other parts of the Capitol. [From the “Act making appropriations to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and ninety-three, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1893. (Stats, at Large, v. 27, 657.)] Electric lighting plant, House . — For purchase of the electric lighting plant of the House wing, ten thousand three hundred and ninety-two dollars and sixty-three cents; For repairs and extension of the same to meet the present requirements of the service, five thousand dollars. [From the annual report of Hoke Smith, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 21, 1894. (53 — 3, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 6, v. 1, p. lii.)] The Architect, Mr. Edward Clark, reports that the plumbing and draining of the entire building is completed. The Extensions. 971 [From the annual report of Hoke Smith, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 27, 1895. (54 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 5, v. 1, p. lxxiv. )] A passenger elevator has been placed in the vestibule leading to the Supreme Court, the eastern elevator at the House wing has been changed from the pressure to the gravity system, the western elevator at that wing has been extended to the subbasement, and a passage and stairway constructed to afford access to the commit- tee rooms of the terrace. Electric call bells connecting the Members’ desks with suitable annunciators in the cloakrooms have been placed in the Hall of Representa- tives. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and ninety-seven, and for other purposes," approved June 11, 1896. (Stats, at Large, V. 29, 432-433.)] For necessary repairs and improvements to the steam-heating and ventilating apparatus of the Senate, including air ducts, elevators, legislative bell service, and all machinery relating thereto in the Senate wing of the Capitol, including the Supreme Court, under the direction of the Architect of the Capitol, four thousand six hundred dollars. For the extension of the electric-light plants in the Capitol and to the grounds about the Capitol. — For additional engine and generator, running of conduits, wiring, lamps and fixtures, steam pipe and fitting, cables for feeder system, and for the pay of electricians, wire men, and laborers, said work to be done by the Architect of the Capitol, under the direction of the Senate Committee on Rules, in accordance with the plan adopted by said committee, forty-five thousand dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary. Ventilation , Senate wing of the Capitol. — For the improvement of the ventilation of the Senate wing of the Capitol, including the installation of refrigerating apparatus, in accordance with the plans submitted by Professor S. H. Woodbridge to the Com- mittee on Rules, United States Senate, said work to be done by the Architect of the Capitol under the supervision of said Woodbridge and the direction of the Senate Committee on Rules, fifty-five thousand dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary. [From the annual report of David It. Francis, Secretary of the Interior, December 3, 1896. (54 — 2, House Doc. No. 5, v. 1, p. cxxiii.) ] An electric-lighting plant, provided with 4 engines and dynamos of the direct- connecting type, having a total capacity of 5,000 lights of 16-candlepower each, has been installed in the Capitol building and is now in operation. Wherever possible gas has given way to electric illumination, to the betterment of the atmospheric con- ditions in the building, and affording illumination to points in the corridors and base- ment rooms hitherto unprovided for. In connection with the electric-light plant in the House wing, a new water tube boiler of the forged-steel type has been placed in position. Under instructions of the Senate Committee on Rules, the electric-light plants have been run day and night, including Sundays. Preparations are now being made to further extend electric lighting to the Capitol grounds and to the ceilings over the Senate Chamber and the Hall of the House of Representatives. 972 Documentary History of the Capitol. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, July 1, 1897. (55 — 2, House Doc. No. 5, Misc. Repts., pp. 735-738.)] HEATING- AND VENTILATION OF THE SENATE WING. Under the authority of the act approved June 11, 1896, the ventilation of the Senate wing of the Capitol has undergone much improvement by a reconstruction of the Senate floor and improvement in the manner of introducing the air through the floor and suitable control of its exit, together with changes in the heating control in the various committee and other rooms in the Senate wing. New and more efficient fans have been placed in the subbasement rooms allotted for the purpose and in the attic of the connecting corridor and over the press gallery. Steam has given way to electricity as a motive power for the operation of the ventilating fans. * * * The plan for the improvement of the ventilation of the Senate wing was extended so as to embrace the improvement of the ventilation of the Supreme Court room. Some work in connection with this, as well as for the Senate, remains to be done out of the balance of the original appropriation. This balance left unexpended to July 1, 1897, can not be utilized without additional authority of Congress. For want of time prior to the meeting of Congress, the original plans were not com- pleted. The plans for the improvement of the ventilation of the Senate wing w r ere made by Prof. S. H. Woodbridge, of the Institute of Technology, Boston, Mass., by direction of the Senate Committee on Rules. This work, though carried out by this office, v r as under the technical supervision of Professor Woodbridge. The report of Professor Woodbridge, in detail, is printed as an appendix to this report. * * * Improvement to the ventilation of the Hall of Representatives is recommended^ by a reconstruction of the House floor and galleries in a manner similar to that ot the Senate, and the substitution in the galleries of the House of chairs with ventilating seat legs. * * * With the changes recommended, any modern system of ventilation could be applied. This statement is made in view of the fact that for some time past the question of a system suitable for the House has been under consideration by the House committee. The recommendation of ventilating chairs for the galleries, to take the place of the present benches, is made in consequence of the general satis- faction derived by their use in the Senate gallery, where overcrowding has been prevented. * * * Congress having provided for an extension of the electric-lighting system to the ceilings of the Senate Chamber, the House of Representatives, and to the Capitol grounds, under the original plan adopted by the Senate Committee on Rules, this work was done, and put in complete operation by the meeting of Congress. [From the annual report of Cornelius N. Bliss, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 16, 1897. (55 — 2, House Doc. No. 5, p. cii. )] The ventilation of the Senate wing has undergone great improvement by a recon- struction of the Senate floor and improvement in the manner of introducing the air through the chamber floor, as w r ell as improved control of its exit through the ceil- ing. In addition, changes have been effected in the heating and control of air sup- plied to the committee and other rooms in the Senate wing. New and more efficient fans for the purpose named have been installed. Steam has given w T ay to electricity The Extensions. 973 for the operation of these fans. In this improvement, attention has been given to the restaurant of the Senate and to the Supreme Court. This important work was done under the authority of the Senate Committee on Rules, with the advisory serv- ices of Prof. S. II. Woodbridge, heating and ventilating engineer Under the resolution of the Senate, passed May 13, 1886, marble busts of the late Vice-Presidents Breckinridge and Colfax have been procured for the niches in the Senate Chamber. The Architect recommends the improvement of the ventilation of the House of Representatives by a reconstruction of the House floor and galleries, in a manner suited to the adoption of any system of ventilation, together with the substitution of chairs with ventilating seat legs for the galleries; and that electric operation of the ventilating fans be. substituted for steam operation. For this purpose recommenda- tion is made for the purchase of a new 1,500 ampere dynamo and engine. * * * The electric lighting system of the Capitol has been generally extended to meet the requirements of the various committee rooms and corridors and important exten- sions have been made to the ceilings over the two halls of Congress, to the great benefit of the ventilation not only of the legislative chambers, but also the passage- ways and rooms throughout the building. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, July 1. 1900. (5(3 — 2, House Doc. No. 5, Misc. Repts., pt. 1, p. 509.)] HEATING AND VENTILATION. The heating and ventilating of a building the size and detail of the Capitol Build- ing is a subject worthy of the most careful attention, for it involves the health and comfort of those whose duties associate them with it. To this subject I have given the most earnest consideration, and the efforts of those under my direction during the past year have been aimed to continue as much as possible the improvement of these conditions, which already had been improved during the previous year. I regret to again state that the system of ventilation and heating, as now existing in the House wing of the Capitol, does not produce the beneficial results found in the Senate wing. As pointed out in my former report, these conditions are due to the presence of . a superior system of ventilation in the Senate wing. The ventilating apparatus used in the Senate wing not only cares for the ventilation of the Senate Chamber in a superior manner, but looks to the care of the subbasement odors, par- ticularly those emanating from the kitchen and terraces, which are under the con- trol of special apparatus, exhaust fans therefor being in successful operation. I sincerely hope that Congress may see fit to revise the system in the House wing, and by the installation of suitable apparatus completely overcome the faults of that sys- tem. I will therefore repeat in this report the recommendation made in the last, that a sum be provided to reconstruct the floor of the House, revise its present ven- tilating apparatus, and bring the ventilation of that Hall to the proper standard. The conditions as shown by the tests made by this office should be improved with- out further delay. In my previous report I gave certain bacteriological tests, comparative of course, which showed certain differences to exist between the ventilation of the House and that of the Senate. The present conditions in the House wing can be readily overcome by the recon- struction of the floor of the Hall, and the installation of proper apparatus, and special attention to the House kitchen. The House kitchen and restaurant are the source of odors which, up to the present time, have been impossible to control. The only 974 Documentary History of the Capitol. proper method of correcting the evil in this building is to combine the restaurants and kitchens into one and locate them in the upper story of the building. As at present this does not seem practicable, and as the House kitchen apparently must remain in its present quarters, any ventilating system installed in the House wing must include a branch applying to this particular phase of the subject. The present restaurant keeper and his employees have been conscientious in their endeavors to conduct the same in as cleanly and orderly manner as possible. But, nevertheless, the kitchen odors frequently reach even the attic story corridors, and nothing but suitable mechanical appliances will obviate this. There can be no doubt that these kitchen odors reach at times the very doors of the Hall and its surrounding corridors, producing disagreeable impressions in the minds of Members of Congress, and are sufficient cause for complaint. Referring to the Hall proper, the present arrangement of the floor does not admit of modern and satisfactory ventilation. The structural conditions beneath the floor do not admit of the proper distribution of air through the various risers. This can only be accomplished by the removal of the jiresent supporting piers and ducts and the tearing out of the present floor and its reconstruction, so as to form a pressure chamber, with suitable outlets to the individual desks and the proper control of the individual admission of air. The seating arrangements in the galleries call for revision. The present method of seating, which is by means of benches, has passed the limit of usefulness. These benches have rendered good service, and now that we know more of sanitation and ventilation we must recognize the qualities of the more comfortable and individually ventilated folding chair. If we would have good ventilation in the galleries we must first control the number of persons admitted to them, and then see that each individual receives his own supply of air. Overcrowding, as is frequently the case during occasions of national interest, must be prevented. It is evident that with the proper seating arrangements in the galleries in the form of chairs the number of gal- lery visitors can be easily controlled. These attentions to gallery ventilation are very important features to be considered, because much of the trouble in the present ventilation of the Hall of Representatives is due to the conditions now existing in the galleries. Individual ventilation of the members’ desks is a product of modern ventilation. We must distribute the air going through the floor so that each mem- ber will receive a generous supply free of his neighbor. The ventilation of the House wing of the Capitol has been earefully studied by this office during the past year, and the consideration of the subject so well advanced that suggestions, plans, and specifications can be readily presented to Congress. [From the “Act Making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, nineteen hundred and two, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1901. (Stats, at Large, v. 31, 1157.)] For improving the ventilation of the Hall of Representatives and the corridors adjacent thereto, including new floor for the Hall and the installation of new venti- lating and heating apparatus, the ventilation of the House restaurant and kitchen, for materials, labor, appliances, and so forth, fifty-one thousand two hundred dollars, to be immediately available. For refurnishing the Hall of the House of Representatives, the Speaker’s rooms, and the office of Sergeant-at-Arms, and for furniture for the new committee rooms in the old library portion of the building, sixty-one thousand dollars, to be imme- diately available and to be disbursed by the Clerk of the House of Representatives. For refitting the file room of the House of Representatives with metal fireproof cases, twelve thousand five hundred dollars. The Extensions. 975 The three foregoing appropriations shall be expended under the direction and supervision of a commission, consisting of three Members-elect to the House of Rep- resentatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress, to be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-sixth Congress. [From, the appendix to the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, July 1, 1901. (57 — 1, House Doc. No. 1, Misc. Repts., pt. 1, p. 527.)] LIST OF STATUARY, UNITED STATES CAPITOL. STATUARY HALL. John Peter Gabriel Muhlenberg, Pennsylvania; Robert Fulton, Pennsylvania; Ethan Allen, Vermont ; Jacob Collamer, Vermont ; Lewis Cass, Michigan; James A. Garfield, Ohio; William Allen, Ohio; John M. Kenna, West Virginia; Oliver P. Morton, Indiana; John Stark, New Hampshire; Daniel Webster, New Hampshire; Nathanial Greene, Rhode Island; Roger Williams, Rhode Island; Robert Livingston, New York; George Clinton, New York; Roger Sherman, Connecticut; Jonathan Trumbull, Connecticut; Richard Stockton, New Jersey; Philip Kearny, New Jersey; James Shields, Illinois; James Marquette, Wisconsin; Samuel Adams, Massachu- setts; John Winthrop, Massachusetts; William King, Maine; plaster model of George Washington, (not a State statue), by Houdon; plaster model, Goddess of Freedom, T. Cranford, sculptor. ROTUNDA. E. D. Baker, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Alexander Hamilton, U. S. Grant. HOUSE CORRIDOR. Foot of staircase, west side, bronze bust and pedestal of Indian chief. Foot of staircase, east side, statue of Thomas Jefferson. clerk’s room of house of representatives. Bust and bracket of John Quincy Adams. SENATE CORRIDOR. Foot of staircase, west side, statue of John Hancock. Foot of staircase, east side, statue of Benjamin Franklin. NORTH LOBBY SENATE GALLERY- Bust and pedestal, Chippewa chief; bust and pedestal, Thomas Crawford; bust and pedestal, T. Kosciusko; bust and pedestal, Garibaldi; bust and pedestal, Charles Sumner; bust and pedestal, R. R. Pulaski; bust and pedestal, Abraham Lincoln. BUSTS AND BRACKETS IN SUPREME COURT. John Jay, John Rutledge, Oliver Elsworth. John Marshall, Roger B. Taney, Salmon P. Chase, Morris E. R. White. FOOT OF TERRACE BETWEEN THE TWO WESTERN STAIRWAYS. Bronze statue, John Marshall. 976 Documentary History of the Capitol. ON THE EASTERN PLAZA. Colossal statue of George Washington, by Horatio Greenough. EAST CENTRAL PORTICO — GROUPS AND STATUES. The Rescue, by Horatio Greenough; The Discover}', by Luigi Presico; Mars, by Luigi Presico; Ceres, by Luigi Presico. IN SENATE GALLERY BUSTS AND PEDESTALS OF VICE-PRESIDENTS. John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Aaron Burr, George Clinton, Eldridge Gerry, Daniel Tompkins, J. C. Calhoun, A. E. Stevenson, T. A. Hendricks, Millard Fill- more, William R. King, J. C. Breckenridge, Hannibal Hamlin, Schuyler Colfax, Henry Wilson, William A. Wheeler, Chester A. Arthur, Levi P. Morton. NORTH VESTIBULE, MAIN FLOOR SENATE. John Tyler, Andrew Johnson. vice-president’s room. Bust and bracket, Henry Wilson; bust and bracket, Lafayette Foster. LIST OF PAINTINGS, UNITED STATES CAPITOL. HEAD OF STAIRCASE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, EAST SIDE. Emancipation Proclamation, by Frank Carpenter; portrait of Henry Clay,, by J. Nagle; portrait of Gunning Bradford, by J. Nagle; portrait of Charles Carroll, by Sully. HALL OF HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. Portrait of George Washington, by John Vanderlyn; portrait of Lafayette, by Ary Shaffer; painting, Entrance into Monterey, by A. Bierstadt; painting, Discovery of the Hudson, by A. Bierstadt; painting on the wall, Cornwallis Sues for Cessation of Hostilities under a Flag of Truce, by C. Brumidi. ROOM OF COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. Portrait of James A. Garfield. ROOM OF COMMITTEE ON INDIAN AFFAIRS. Eight paintings, representing Indian Life. ROOM OF COMMITTEE ON MILITARY AFFAIRS. Paintings of Fort Knox, Maine; Fort Tyler, Florida; Fort Snelling, Minnesota; Fort Seamel and George, Maine; Fort Defiance, New Hampshire; Fort Sumter, before the war, South Carolina; Fort Sumter, after the war, South Carolina; Fort Sumter, after the bombardment, South Carolina; Fort Mackinac, Michigan; Fort Mifflin, Pennsylvania; Lafayette, New York; Tompkins and Wadsworth, New York; West Point, New York; Fort Delaware, Delaware; Fort Jefferson, Florida; Fort Trumbull, * Fort Rice, Dakota. speaker’s room. Portrait of ex-Speaker John W. Taylor, New York STATUARY HALL. Portrait of Joshua R. Giddings. The Extensions. 977 ROTUNDA. Signing the Declaration of Independence, by John Trumbull; Surrender of General Burgoyne, by John Trumbull; Surrender of Cornwallis, by John Trumbull; General Washington Resigning his Commission, by John Trumbull; Embarkation of the Pil- grims, by Robert Weir; Landing of Columbus, by John Vanderlyn; Discovery of the Mississippi, by William H. Powell; Baptism of Pocahontas, by John G. Chapman. HEAD OF MARBLE STAIRCASE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, WEST SIDE. Westward the Course of the Empire takes its Way, by Emanuel Luitze. UPPER LANDING OF STAIRCASE, WEST SIDE. Portrait of John Marshall, copy by Richard N. Brooks. speaker’s LOBBY, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES EX-SPEAKERS. Frederick Muhlenberg, of Pennsylvania; Robert C. Winthrop, of Massachusetts; John W. Jones, of Virginia; James L. Orr, of South Carolina; Henry Clay, of Ken- tucky; William Pennington, of New Jersey; Joseph B. Varnum, of Massachusetts; Robert M. T. Hunter, of Virginia; Andrew Stevenson, of Virginia; Theodore Sed- wuick, of Massachusetts; Schuyler Colfax, of Indiana; Thomas B. Reed, of Maine; Jonathan Trumbull, of Connecticut; Nathaniel P. Banks, of Massachusetts; John White, of Kentucky; Jonathan Dayton, of New Jersey; John W. Taylor, of New Jersey; John Bell, of Tennessee; Philip P. Barbour, of Virginia; Linn Boyd, of Ken- tucky; Michael C. Kerr, of Indiana; Samuel J. Randall, of Pennsylvania; James G. Blaine, of Maine; Charles J. Crisp, of Georgia; John G. Carlisle, of Kentucky; Galusha A. Grow, of Pennsylvania; J. Warren Keifer, of Ohio; J. W. Davis, of Indiana; Howell Cobb, of Georgia; James K. Polk, of Tennessee; Langdon Cheves, of South Carolina. MAIN CORRIDOR OF SENATE. East side: Portrait of George Washington, by Gilbert Stewart; portrait of John Adams, copy, by Andrews. West side: Portrait of Thomas Jefferson, copy from Thomas Sully; portrait of Patrick Henry, by Martin. HEAD OF GRAND STAIRCASE. West side: Battle of Chepultepec, by James Walker; portrait of George Washing- ton, by Charles Wilson Peale, 1779. East side: Battle of Lake Erie, by William H. Powell; portrait of Henry Clay, portrait of Daniel Webster, portrait of John C. Calhoun, by H. F. Darby. SUPREME COURT ROBING ROOM. Portraits of John Jay (Chief Justice) , by Gray, after Gilbert Stewart; Taney (Chief Justice), by Healey; Oliver Ellsworth (Chief Justice), John Marshall (Chief Justice), by Rembrant Peale; Salmon P. Chase (Chief Justice), by W. Cogswell; Norman W. Waite (Chief Justice), by Cornelia Fassett; Rutledge (Chief Justice), by Robert Hinkley; John Marshall (Chief Justice), by Martin, 1814. COMMITTEE ON RULES. Portrait of Pocahontas. H. liep. 646 62 978 Documentary History of the Capitol. ROOM OP SERGEANT- AT-ARMS, SENATE. Portrait of Prof. Joseph Henry, by H. Ulke. ROOJVI OF VICE-PRESIDENT. Portrait of Washington, by Kembrant Peale. SENATE LOBBY, GALLERY FLOOR. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, by T. Moran; Chasm of the Colorado, by T. Moran; portrait of Charles Sumner, by Ingalls; portrait of General Dix, by Mrs. Morell; Electoral Commission, by Cornelia Fassett; First Fight of Ironclads, by W. F. Hakall; Table Rock, Niagara Falls, by Regis Gignoux; portrait of Lincoln, in Mosaic, by Salvaiti; portrait of James A. Garfield, in Mosaic, by Salvaiti; Miss Mott directing Generals Marion and Lee to burn her mansion to dislodge the British, artist, John Blake White (presented by Octavus A. White, M. D., LL. D., 1827); General Marion inviting a British officer to share his meal, 1830, artist, John Blake White (presented by Octavus A. White, M. D., LL. D. ); Sergeants Jasper and New- ton rescuing American prisoners from the British, artist, John Blake White (pre- sented by Octavus A. White, M. D., LL. D., 1820); Battle of Fort Moultrie, (1812, artist, John Blake White (presented by Octavus A. White, M. D., LL. D., 1820.) SENATE COMMITTEE ROOMS. Committee on Arid Lands: Portrait of Gen. George H. Thomas; artist, S. W. Price. Portrait of John Paul Jones. Committee on Finance: Portrait of George Washington, by Gilbert Stewart; portrait of Henry Laurens, by John S. Copley. Committee on Judiciary: Portrait of Thomas Hendricks. Committee on Library: Portrait of Benjamin West, by Benjamin West. Committee on Public Lands: “Recall of Columbus,” by A. G. Heaton. Committee on Rules: Portrait of U. S. Grant, by Cogswell. [House of Representatives, Report No. 16, 57th Congress, 1st session. Refurnishing the House of Rep- resentatives. December 19, 1901, committed to the Committees on Rules and Appropriations and ordered to be printed.] Mr. Cannon, from the commission to direct and supervise the expenditure of appropriations for refurnishing the House of Representatives and certain offices and committee rooms, and to improve the ventilation of the Hall of the House of Repre- sentatives, submitted the following report (to accompany H. Res. 74) : Under the following provisions enacted in the sundry civil appropriation act approved March 3, 1901 — For improving the ventilation of the Hall of Representatives and the corridors adjacent thereto, including new floor for the Hall and the installation of new ventilating and heating apparatus, the ventilation of the House restaurant and kitchen, for materials, labor, appliances, and so forth, fifty- one thousand two hundred dollars, to be immediately available. For refurnishing the Hall of the House of Representatives, the Speaker’s rooms, and the office of Sergeant-at-Arms, and for furniture for the new committee rooms in the old library portion of the building, sixty-one thousand dollars, to be immediateiy available and to be disbursed by the Clerk of the House of Representatives. For refitting the file room of the House of Representatives with metal fireproof cases, twelve thou- sand five hundred dollars. The three foregoing appropriations shall be expended under the direction and supervison of a commission, consisting of three members-elect to the House of Represntatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress, to be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-sixth Con- gress— the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-sixth Congress appointed Joseph G. Cannon, of Illinois, John Dalzell of Pennsylvania, and James D. Rich- The Extensions. 979 ardson, of Tennessee, Represen tatives-elect to the Fifty-seventh Congress, to consti- tute the commission thus provided for. The commission held its first meeting March 8, 1901, and appointed as its clerk James C. Courts, the clerk of the Committee on Appropriations. At this meeting they also conferred at length with Wallace H. Hills, now chief clerk of the Treasury Department; Bernard R. Green, superintendent of the Library of Congress building; Elliott Woods,, assistant architect of the Capitol; and W. J. Browning, Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives, all of whom in their official capacities having had more or less extended experience in furnishing public buildings. At its next meet- ing the commission formally intrusted to Elliott Woods, the assistant architect of the Capitol, the practical execution of all of the work provided for under the appropria- tions above referred to. The commission held other formal sessions during the months of March, April, and May for the purpose of determining upon the designs and character of furniture and the letting of contracts therefor. At other times, and as conditions required, the individual members of the commission gave their attention to the details and progress of the work. In furnishing the Hall the commission adopted the continuous or segmental form of desks as the form giving a maximum amount of desk room to each member and affording the greatest space between the aisles and the ranges of desks, there being a gain of from 2 to 21- inches in the aisles and 8 inches between the ranges as com- pared with the old arrangement of single desks. Aside from this consideration, it would have been difficult, if not impracticable, to provide separate or detached desks for the members under the increased representation required in the new apportion- ment act. The full seating capacity of the Hall as now provided for is 400, an excess of 10 desks over the actual needs of the membership of the House, including delegates, in the next Congress, the Fifty-eighth. In the exercise of its best judgment, after careful consideration, the commission provided for centain changes in the interior arrangement of the House Hall, cloak- rooms, and lobby, and it is believed that these changes will add materially to the comfort of members and aid in the maintenance of order and decorum. Notable among these changes is the removal of the barber shops from the cloakrooms to a well-equipped and commodious room near the main entrance to the House wing of the building, at the foot of the stairway and elevator used by members, and adjacent to the office of the Sergeant-at-Arms and the post-office. The pages are provided with benches and a proper electrical call system in the northeast and northwest cor- ners of the Hall, where they can see and respond promptly to the members. All hooks on the walls and all movable coat racks in the center of the cloakrooms are dispensed with, and modern coat and hat rack systems are installed instead in one end of each cloakroom. All sofas, loilnging chairs, and other articles of furniture not indispensable to the transaction of the business of the House have been excluded from the Hall. The bulkheads or partition walls with doorways have been removed from the ends of the lobby corridor. The wooden annex in the vestibule at the entrance of the House wing, formerly used by the Committee on Ways and Means, but no longer necessary to that com- mittee since its acquisition of the room formerly occupied by the Sergeant-at-Arms, has also been removed, likewise the telephone booths, which have been transferred from the lobby to convenient locations in the cloakrooms; and the Weather Bureau map, formerly in the lobby corridor, north wall, has been consigned to a position at the east end of the lobby. The Department telegraph lines and operator’s table are left in their old position in the west end of the lobby. The oil portraits of Wash- ington and of Lafayette and the two large paintings by Bierstadt have been trans- ferred from the south wall of the Flail to appropriate positions in the lobby corridor. The painting, Washington’s Farewell to His Officers, by Brumidi, in the southwest 980 Documentary History of the Capitol. corner of the Hall, is a plaster fresco on the masonry wall and can not be removed without injury, except at considerable expense. It was therefore left in its place. The last complete refurnishing of the Hall of the House occurred in 1873, when the small oak desks familiar to members of the last and previous Congresses were installed. The membership of the House then numbered 303, including Delegates, and the desks, without label frames, desk plates, and inkstands, cost $21.75 each. Prior to that expenditure and incident to the first occupation of the new south wing of the Capitol by the House of Representatives, appropriations were made, from 1856 to 1858, for furnishing the Hall, committee rooms, and offices, aggregating $80,000. The membership of the House, including Delegates, then numbered 244. The desks and chairs provided on that occasion were of oak, elaborately hand carved. Continued increase in the population of the country proportionate to that which has marked the last decade and the same ratable apportionment of representation as is now fixed by law will, after the next census, require a material enlargement of the present Hall by the removal of its south wall and gallery so as to embrace the lobby corridor within its floor area, unless the use of desks for members be abandoned. Indeed, the limits of the Hall, as contemplated by its designer a half century ago and as actually constructed, will have been reached, if not exceeded, with the com- ing of the Fifty-eighth Congress. The 45 panels in the ceiling, designed as settings for the seals of the several States, have all been filled, and every foot of available floor space will be required to accommodate the desks and chairs of the 390 Members and Delegates who will compose the next House of Representatives. The whole of the recent work of refurnishing the Hall, cloakrooms, lobby, Speak- er’s rooms, office of the Sergeant-at-Arms, and committee rooms in the old Library section of the building, together with the improvement of the ventilation of the Hall, refitting the file room with metal fireproof cases, and many subordinate objects not contemplated under the original estimates on which the appropriations were made, as, for example, lining the ventilating chamber under the Hall with glazed tiling, the new bronze railing surrounding the desk platforms of the Hall, the new mantels and mirrors in the cloakrooms, and thoroughly overhauling and renewing the decorations of the ceiling and side walls of the Hall and lobby, has been accom- plished within the limit of the sums appropriated. In addition to the work that has been done under the appropriations controlled by the commission, other extensive improvements have been made by the Architect of the Capitol in the central or old part of the building and in the House wing. The entire roof structure of the former has been practically rebuilt in a fireproof manner, including the ceilings of the Supreme Court chamber and Statuary Hall. The main stairway to the rotunda from the west entrance has been reconstructed in marble, and the committee rooms in the old Library section have been decorated and finally completed for the use of the House and Senate. The bathrooms in the House wing have been thoroughly overhauled and completely refitted, and all of the committee rooms in that wing have, where necessary, been painted and decorated, and in them the furniture has been renovated and in a large measure replaced, under the direc- tion of the Clerk of the House and out of appropriations under his control. The furniture procured, so far as the commission was enabled to procure it, has in every respect been of the very best quality and workmanship obtainable in the market. Utility, durability, and simplicity of design have been sought, and useless ornamentation and display avoided in every particular. Mr. Elliott Woods, the Assistant Architect of the Capitol, to whom, as stated, the commission intrusted the practical execution of the work over which they had direc- tion and supervision, performed his onerous task, in all of its infinite particulars and details, with exemplary zeal, fidelity, and intelligence. His report is submitted herewith as an appendix, and relates with particularity the details of the work done and the expenditures therefor. H. Rep. G4G — 58-2. INTERIOR VIEW OF STATUARY HALL. OCTOBER 5, 1902. The Extensions. 981 It will conduce greatly to the comfort of members who have occasion to occupy their desks during the periods when the House is not in session, and to the orderly and cleanly appearance of the Chamber, if the following amendment to the rules, which the commission recommend, should be adopted and enforced: There shall be excluded at all times from the Hall of the House of Representatives and the cloak- rooms all persons not entitled to the privilege of the floor during the session, except that until fifteen minutes of the hour of the meeting of the House persons employed in its service, accredited members of the press entitled to admission to the press gallery, and other persons on request of members, by card or in writing, may be admitted. The commission also recommend the adoption of the following: Hereafter the Architect of the Capitol shall supervise and direct the care and repair of all furni- ture in the Hall cloakrooms, lobby, committee rooms, and offices of the House, and all furniture here- after required for the House of Representatives or for any of its committee rooms or offices shall be procured on designs and specifications made or approved by the Architect. Appendix. Architect’s Office, United States Capitol, Washington, D. C., December 3, 1901. Hon. Joseph G. Cannon, Chairman of the commission of the House of Representatives to supervise the expend- iture of certain appropriations made, for the refurnishing of and ventilation of the House of Representatives; also for refitting with steel cases the office of the file clerk of the House. Sir: In the sundry civil bill approved March 3, 1901, the following appropriations were made: “ For improving the ventilation of the Hall of Representatives and the corridors adjacent thereto, including new floor for the Hall and the installation of new venti- lating and heating apparatus, the ventilation of the House restaurant and kitchen, for materials, labor, appliances, and so forth, fifty one-thousand two hundred dol- lars, to be immediately available. “For refitting the file room of the House of Representatives with metal fireproof cases, tw’elve thousand five hundred dollars. “For refurnishing the Hall of the House of Representatives, the Speaker’s room, and the office of Sergeant-at-Arms, and for furniture for the new r committee rooms in the old library portion of the building, sixty- one thousand dollars, to be immediately available and to be disbursed by the Clerk of the House of Representatives. “The three foregoing appropriations shall be expended under the direction and supervision of a commission, consisting of three members-elect to the House of Rep- resentatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress, to be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-sixth Congress.” On the 10th day of March following, this office received the following communi- cation: March 9, 1901. Mr. Edwlvrd Clark, Architect United States Capitol. Sir: At a meeting held this day of the commission of the House of Representa- tives appointed under a provision contained in the sundry civil appropriation act approved March 3, 1901, to direct and supervise the expenditure of certain appro- priations made by said act, the following action was had, namely: With reference to the three appropriations made in the sundry civil appropriation act approved March 3, 1901, over which the commission have direction and control, it is hereby ordered: 982 Documentary History of the Capitol. 1. Under the appropriation “For improving the ventilation of the Hall of Repre- sentatives and the corridors adjacent thereto, including new floor for the Hall and the installation of new ventilating and heating ajiparatus, the ventilation of the House restaurant and kitchen, for materials, labor, appliances, and so forth, fifty-one thousand two hundred dollars, to be immediately available,” the Architect of the Capitol is authorized and directed to cause to be prepared, as speedily as may be practicable, for the consideration of the commission, plans and specifications for all work authorized by said appropriation. 2. Under the appropriation “For refitting the file room of the House of Repre- sentatives with metal fireproof cases, twelve thousand five hundred dollars,” the Architect of the Capitol is authorized and directed to cause to be prepared, as speedily as may be practicable, for the consideration of the commission, plans and specifications for all work authorized by said appropriation. 3. Under the appropriation “For refurnishing the Hall of the House of Repre- sentatives, the Speaker’s rooms, and the office of Sergeant-at-Arms, and for furniture for the new committee rooms in the old library portion of the building, sixty-one thousand dollars, to be immediately available, and to be disbursed by the Clerk of the House of Representatives,” the Architect of the Capitol is authorized and directed to cause to be prepared, as speedily as may be practicable, for the consideration of the commission, plans and specifications for all work authorized by said appropriation, availing of such assistance in this connection as may be furnished by the Secretary of the Treasury at the request of the commission, and employing such other expert assistance as in his discretion may be requisite. All contracts under this appropria- tion shall be drawn and entered into under the existing regulations of the Interior Department, and all payments from said appropriation shall be made by the Clerk of the House of Representatives on vouchers prepared and approved as required in the case of similar payments when made by the Interior Department. It is desired by the commission that you will act in the premises with all possible expedition. Very respectfully, J. G. Cannon, Chairman. In compliance with this order, the preparation of plans and specifications for the work named in the appropriation was proceeded with, and at various times they were submitted for the consideration of the commission for adoption and approval. In general all materials were jiurchased under the usual procedure of this office — that is, after competition preceded either by circular letter or advertisement. In some cases, particularly with respect to emergency items connected with the ventilation of the House, purchases were made in open market. VENTILATION OF THE HOUSE. The old wood riser floor of the House was removed entire. Some 60 tons of brick ducts were taken out and the masonry floor beneath the wooden floor brought down to as low a level as the lower story arches would permit. The entire basin thus formed was trimmed down so that the structural brickwork showed clear and fresh. The side w r alls were plastered with white Keene cement, and where small ducts led to the gallery these were cleaned out and provided with entering air controls. The entire floor of the basin was then covered with a base of Portland cement upon which white glazed tile v'as laid, forming a sanitary floor of exceptional quality. Upon this floor and at suitable radial distances, as provided for in the plans, cast- iron columns, enameled on their exterior surface, were placed. These support the upper-floor framing, upon which the amphitheater floor rests. The construction of this floor, of two layers of pine flooring with leaded joints, is such that it forms an amphitheater of smooth surface perfectly air-tight. The inclination is such as to provide for the construction of the circular risers 5 inches in height, upon which the desks rest. The inclination is greater in the present floor than in the old. Itelevates each row of desks 1 inch more than the old, but provides the necessary area to the Tice Extensions. 983 riser front for the proper distribution of air. The fronts of the risers are supported by ornamental bronze grilles backed by brass-wire gauze. No horizontal grilles are used. These were not considered in the present method for sanitary reasons. They were the source of unhealthy and unclean conditions in the former arrange- ment, and had much to do with contaminating the air in the Hall. Each desk is provided wfth an air-distribution box, which, together with the open grille fronts of the risers, supplies all air to the floor within the desk limits. Around the wall surface of the Hall and under the Speaker’s, Clerk’s, and reporters’ desks are arranged suitable openings duly controlled, which supply air in addition to that passing through the desk floor. DISTRIBUTION OF THE AIR. In the old method of ventilating the House distribution was attempted by means of brick and iron directing ducts, running in various directions under the floor. Naturally the air would follow paths of least resistance, and many desks received more than the necessary supply and complaints of drafts were frequent. The distribution of air under the new system is effected by means of supply aper- tures cut through the amphitheater floor to supply the risers and apertures cut through both the amphitheater and riser floors to supply the desks. The apertures that reach the distributing boxes under the desks are supplied with tin tubes, form- ing an independent conduit from the lower air chamber to the desk. Each aperture in the amphitheater floor is supplied with a regulating damper, which controls the amount of air passing through the opening. By this means the quantity of air given to each linear foot of desk and riser can be absolutely controlled. It means an equal distribution over the entire floor surface. This method also insures an upward rise of the air in one body, and should be devoid of vortex or downward currents. The air supplied to the air chamber beneath the floor will always be under a condition of light pressure. Perhaps the whole method can be simply explained by comparing the air chamber and openings with a steam boiler under light pressure supplied with numerous outlet valves which can be so controlled as to permit the escape of vapor in equal quantities from each opening. The quantity of the air supplied will naturally vary with the seasons, and is subject to excellent control. In the summer time probably double the quantity of air now supplied will be given to the interior of the Hall. This can be done in warm weather without ill effects, but the same quantity during the winter season would cause com- plaint. In winter the human being could stand with comfort a supply of probably 30 cubic feet per minute. In the summer time probably three times that quantity could be furnished without any discomfort whatever. We have prepared, therefore, for the various conditions which may arise, and which will be governed as they arise. The method of ventilating the House gallery has been completely changed. For- merly the gallery was supplied with wooden benches for the seating of the occupants, and small apertures were placed in the front of these benches. Under this method the escape of air from the floor beneath was much impeded by the clothing and limbs of the occupants. With the approval of the House commission the benches and floor were removed and an air-tight floor put in around the entire gallery. The seating capacity was considerably altered. The old method of seating has given way to the introduction of folding chairs with ventilating legs. The construction of the risers on which the chairs rest and the risers upon which persons walk is such that the direction, motion, and velocity of the air supplied are very little impeded. The method of ventilating through the chair legs surrounds the body with the needful supply of air, and in such manner that it does not have to pass through the clothing. Like the amphitheater floor below, the floor of the gallery has been constructed of very heavy tongue and grooved wood with leaded joints. The chair legs are beveled to conform to the floor construction, and are supplied with air through holes bored through the floor. The ventilation of the lobby is effected by means of apertures in the ceiling of the 984 Documentary History of the Capitol. principal corridor of that space, from which run galvanized-iron ducts connecting with the exhaust chamber over the ceiling. The conditions of the floor are now' such that once a week persons may he sent below the floor and have free access to every part of the space, which may be thoroughly disinfected. It seems wholly improbable that at any time can an unhealthy condition exist in this air chamber. MACHINERY. The ventilation of the Hall is accomplished by the operation of two fans driven by electric motors — one, of 40 horsepower, located in the subbasement and in the main air duct; the other, a fan of 12 horsepower, located over the east, corridor of the House, with an intake opening directly into the space over the ceiling of the Hall and an outlet through the louvers in the roof. The inlet for the fresh air, as heretofore, is a tower in the southwest grounds, some 800 feet from the building. The air after reaching the building first passes through the tempering and heating coils, auto- matically controlled. The principal fan is a double one and forces the air upward into the space or air chamber under the House floor. The operation is such as will keep the air under a certain definite pressure. The supply ducts of the galleries lead up from the air chamber under the floor to the space under the gallery floor. By the arrangements of the fan over the ceiling it is intended that about 80 per cent of the total amount of air supplied to the Hall will be exhausted mechanically through the ceiling, and thus prevent a downward escape of the vitiated air. The arrangements of the ceiling outlets are such that all the air rising from the floor proper must pass upward and backward over the gallery and out through the perimeter of the ceiling. This should insure, beyond all question, any of the vitiated air from the galleries falling to the floor. The remaining 20 per cent of the air escapes through the various doorways which from time to time will be opened. The first operation of the machinery has proved that the occupants of the Hall and galleries can be supplied with the needed quantity and distribution of air. It also shows that the capacity is considerably in excess of the demands, and will prove important when it is desired to flush the Hall with air during the night hours. It, would be well to state here that in the installation of a new system of such magni- tude there will be more or less adjustment necessary from day to day. This will probably cover a period of from one to two months, and must be carried forward under practical conditions — that, is to say, after noting from- time to time the quan- tities, conditions, movement and disposition of the air, particularly during sessions. For the automatic control of the temperature of the air in the Hall and galleries there has been installed a series of thermophones placed at various points in the Hall and under the doors. The instrument has attached to it a thermometer which governs a small valve at, the back, which in turn permits the escape of compressed air. This compressed air operates the by-pass damper at the heating coils, permitting or pro- hibiting the access of the untempered air to the main air duct. The same system is installed to operate the valves controlling the inlet of steam to the various sections of the large heating coil. The apparatus is first adjusted to the standard temperature desired. If, for instance, the temperature in any part of the Hall should fall one degree, the automatic thermophone will open one of the air valves which operates the mechanism necessary to close the cold-air damper. On the other hand, if the temperature should rise one degree above the standard, a valve is opened which, operating the machanism at the damper, will open the by-pass damper, admitting the cold air to mix with the warmed air. This damper will remain open until the air is of the proper temperature. The sum of the whole action is compared to a balance — the by-pass damper moving to and fro as the conditions vary. All steam valves in the main coil can be opened or closed with compressed air by means of small levers in the office of the chief engineer. There is no necessity for any person to enter the air duct at any time during sessions to operate the machinery. The compressed air is furnished from an iron tank charged with an air pump driven The Extensions. 985 by an electric motor. The operation of the pump is also automatically controlled, starting or stopping according to the standard pressure set for the tank. A system of pipes leads from the air tank and runs to the various points where automatic control is desired. The capacity of the compressed-air apparatus is such that by means of suitable connections under the floor the bronze risers and their backing may be thoroughly cleaned from time to time without removing them from their settings. This will effect a great saving of time and labor, as formerly every casting had to be removed from the floor, taken to the subbasement, and cleaned by steam. The House kitchen and restaurant, when the adjustments are completed, will be ventilated as follows: At the north wall of the kitchen has been installed a large fan directly connected to an 8-horsepower electric motor. The inlet of the fan is through the kitchen wall. The outlet is a large galvanized iron duct running along the principal subbasement corridor and connecting to one of the large stacks reaching outward to the roof. In the principal room of the restaurant an opening has been made through the wall into the shaft carrying the dumb-waiter. When the fan is in operation, the exhaust on the kitchen will cause the air to enter the dumb-waiter shaft from both the bar and principal rooms, and the quantity passing through the shaft will be suf- ficient to cause the air in the principal rooms to change with sufficient rapidity. The air passing downward through the dumb-waiter shaft will travel through the lower rooms, over the ranges, and out through the fan. The appropriation for refurnishing comprised the following separate items: 1. The Hall of the House of Representatives, including the lobby of the House and the cloak rooms of the House. 2. The room of the Speaker of the House. 3. The office of the Sergeant-at-Arms of the House. 4. The new committee rooms of the House located in the old library section of the Capitol. The third item was considered at the second meeting of the House Commission, at which time was presented a scheme offered by the Sergeant-at-Arms, through the Chief Clerk of the House. The scheme referred to was one approved by the Sergeant- at-Arms, and was considered by the Commission as meeting the wishes of that office. The plans and estimates were furnished by the Jeffris Company, of Janesville, Wis., the total cost being $2,000. Under authority of the Commission the Architect ordered the furniture, as shown on the plans. The scheme covers a general banking outfit, with the necessary desks, and is built of Wisconsin birch wood. The outer portion of the counter is stained and finished to a mahogany color and furnished with suitable grilles, windows, and reserved spaces for the conduct of the business of the office. The room of the Speaker of the House was furnished in specially designed mahog- any furniture, upholstered in light-green leather. The plans for this room had been prepared early and submitted for the approval of the then Speaker. The Commission authorized the Architect to hold to the original scheme, if in his judgment the prices therefor were reasonable. This being the case, the purchase was made through the bidders, W. B. Moses & Sons, the price being $1,129.85. In accordance with orders of the Commission, the Architect prepared a schedule of the furniture desired for the Hall of the House, cloakrooms, lobby, and the new com- mittee rooms; submitted and had approved models for the House desks and chairs; prepared and furnished the proper specifications for the construction of the several articles of furniture and called for further bids. The detailed specifications, bids, etc., will be found in the exhibit herewith. The results have produced the furniture now in the Hall of the House, the cloak- rooms and lobby, and in the new committee rooms. The furniture in the committee rooms covers only that required for the actual conduct of business. It is expected that additional pieces will be required as, from time to time, the chairmen may find 986 Documentary History of the Capitol. necessary. A reasonable sum has been reserved to supply these, and at the present writing the wishes of the several chairmen are being considered. The character of the furniture procured is of a very high order. All was specially designed to tit in the various rooms. The cases are mostly of the combination type and constructed to meet the wishes of the chairmen who were expected to occupy the rooms. The movable furniture is upholstered in dark green leather. The cases, desks, and tabled are of the simplest possible character. Mahogany wood best tends to the construction of furniture which may be expected to improve with age. Sim- plicity of design, as carried out by this office, has its special purpose, namely, the care in the future. The furniture procured for the House is free of ornamentation, and is easily and inexpensively gone over from season to season. I think the House commission is to be congratulated on the adoption of the seg- mental form of desks. It will be understood, of course, that provision had to be made for the increased membership of the House, due to the reapportionment. After careful consideration this office found that the segmental plan favored the greatest possible desk room to individual members for the amount of space in the present Hall. Every available and practicable foot of floor space is now occupied by the 400 desks provided. The ten extra desks will accommodate Representatives and Delegates who in the course of the next ten years may be added to the member- ship of the House. Again, the smallest of the present desks is one inch longer than the old, and, by comparison with the arrangement of the former desks, they offer the same numerical arrangement for each row. Of course, the corners of the Hall have been utilized to accommodate the added number of desks, and this of necessity restricts the use of the Hall to strictly legislative functions, the aisles at the rear walls of the Hall being wide enough to permit free access to each and every part of the desk floor. The modifications of the arrangements in the cloakrooms were submitted to the commission solely to provide for members an increased and comfortable lounging place, and as a measure to compensate for the restrictions in floor space in the Hall. The removal of the barber shops to a room provided for their use solely, and con- venient to the private staircase leading to the loddy, gives to each cloakroom a gain of 90 square feet of floor space. The arragement for hats and coats is a radical departure from the old method, but with competent attendance should prove satis- factory; the gain in comfort and the increase in floor space available for furniture should prove its value during the present long session. Small details may be changed at any time, but it is hoped that the principal clear room space may be preserved. The fitting out of the cloakrooms has been such as to make them as cheerful as pos- sible. Tne furniture is of solid mahogany, upholstered in pigskin. New Tennessee marble mantels, with suitable mirrors, and new mahogany entrance doors have been provided. The fireplaces have been rearranged. A new wash basin and filter out- fit in each cloakroom has been provided, and the telephone booths, formerly in the lobby, have been placed in the cloakrooms. New electric-lighting fixtures have been installed both in these rooms and in the lobby. The removal of the pages to the Hall merits attention. In each corner of the Hall is an independent electric call system. The device is placed on a small table, and consists of an exposed series of numbered platinum disks. Each table device takes care of 200 desks. The desks on the Democratic side of the House range in numbers from 1 to 200; those on the Republican side from 201 to 400. At the right-hand side of each desk and attached to the bottom is an electric push button. Pressing this, the circuit is closed and current flows through to the disk of the registering device corresponding to the number of the desk button. The disk appears red-brown, and after about thirty seconds resumes its normal color. The operation is silent. The person in charge sends the page to the dumber regis- tered. On either side of the device tables suitable benches are provided for the seating of pages not engaged in answering calls. The Extensions. 987 The office of the file clerk of the House has been entirely refitted with the most modern type of steel file cases. The boxes are now dust and vermin proof, and the whole arrangement is adapted to the needs of the file clerk and for the most con- venient conduct of the business of his office. Colonel French, in charge, devoted considerable time during the past summer to the study of the proposed arrange- ments, and the plans were drawn largely in accordance with his wishes. The work provides the principal office with steel file cases running to the spring line of the room arch, and covers in addition the small anteroom and gallery. The cases attached to the north wall of the room are provided with a base series of five steel desks for the use of the clerks. All steel work is of the very highest order of workmanship and material, and is enameled in light olive-green color, the character of the enameling being such that the cases can be cleaned down from time to time. The work was furnished under a contract with the Art Metal Construction Company, the lowest bidders. In the exhibit attached hereto will be found a statement of the bids received. I would like to call the attention of the commission to the fact that in addition to the work estimated for in the appropriation for the ventilation of the House there have been provided new mantels for the cloakrooms, costing $900; 15 pairs of new mahogany doors and transoms for the Hall of the House, costing $1,659.30; an entire redecoration of the Hall, costing, approximately, $1,500; the lining of the air cham- ber beneath the floor with white glazed tile, costing $3,940, and the new barbershop for the House, costing $1,688.30. The total cost of these added improvements is $9,687.60. In conclusion, I desire to express to you and to the other members of the com- mission the thanks of this office for courtesies during the consideration of the plans, sketches, and models submitted, and throughout the progress of the work. The full discussion of every detail, and consequent advice, and, above all, the har- monious relations always existing aided most materially in the prosecution of the work. Mr. James C. Courts, clerk of the commission, rendered valuable aid in the prepa- ration and arrangement of the multitude of details involved in the reception of sketches, letters, and bids, all of which this office remembers and thoroughly appreciates. Further thanks are extended to Prof. S. H. Woodbridge, heating and ventilating engineer, of Boston, for professional interest and services rendered in connection with the change in the system of ventilating the Hall. His abilities as a heating and ventilating engineer are of the highest order, and this office relied upon them with all confidence. Elliot Woods, Acting Architect United States Capitol. Approved. Edward Clark, Architect United States Capitol. [Prom the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, nineteen hundred and three, and for other purposes,” approved June 28, 1902. (Stats, at Large, v. 32, pt. 1,451.)] For steel shelving for the Senate library, for the principal office room and for rooms under the roof, nine thousand seven hundred and fifty dollars. And the Superin- tendent of the Capitol Building and Grounds is hereby authorized to pay, out of the appropriation heretofore made for the construction of rooms in the old library space, the sum of twenty-five thousand one hundred and seventeen dollars for steel shelv- ing already contracted for and erected in place in the upper rooms of the Senate library. 988 Documentary History of the Capitol . [From the annual report of Elliott Woods, Superintendent of the United States Capitol Building and Grounds, July 1, 1902. (57—2, House Doc. No. 5, Misc. Repts., pt. 1, p. 405.)] An important and special work was that of the remodeling and improving the House bathing rooms. The condition there liad grown to be distressing, and revision was determined upon. The old and broken marble tubs were removed, disclosing a deteriorated plumbing system. As the system embraced toilets and lavatories in each room it was deemed wise to renew the entire system, and this has been done. The bathing rooms now present a pleasing and cleanly appearance. With the exception of one room, the fixtures are of porcelain of the highest grade. The walls throughout are wainscoted with the finest Italian white marble 9 feet and 1 inch high. In the excepted room, the walls are lined with so-called English vein Italian marble. The tub is of the same handsome material. This bathing room, as well as that in the Senate wing, is supplied with a resting room containing a large ten-plate static electrical machine driven by a motor. It seems that certain classes of minor ailments affecting the human body yield to this electrical treatment, and the machine affords a harmless and beneficial tonic even to the well. Both machines have been much patronized during the past session. Before their installation, these machines were thoroughly tested in our physical laboratory south of the Capitol by Mr. C. P. Gliem, the chief electrical engineer, under my personal supervision. A new Roman mosaic floor has been laid in the elipse adjoining the Rotunda and the principal floor; and the corridor running from the Rotunda to the connecting corridor, Senate wing, lias been painted in simple, dignified style, the ornamental features being touched with gold and the whole work designed to bring out the architectural features. * * * IMPROVED VENTILATION FOE THE HALL OF REPRESENTATIVES, NEW FURNISHINGS THERE- FOR, FURNISHING NEW COMMITTEE ROOMS OLD LIBRARY SPACE, AND REFITTING THE FILE ROOM OF THE HOUSE. The following laws passed by Congress at the last session will be found in the sundry civil act approved March 3, 1901: For improving the ventilation of the Hall of Representatives and the corridors adjacent thereto, including new floor for the Hall and the installation of new ventilating and heating apparatus, the ventilation of the House restaurant and kitchen, for materials, labor appliances, and so forth, fifty- one thousand two hundred dollars, to be immediately available. For furnishing the Hall of the House of Representatives, the Speaker’s rooms, and the office of the Sergeant-at-Arms, and for furniture for the new committee rooms in the old Library portion of the building, sixty-one thousand dollars, to be immediately available, and to be disbursed by the Clerk of the House of Representatives. For refitting the file room of the House of Representatives with metal fireproof cases, twelve thou- sand five hundred dollars. In accordance with the laws named, an entire new system of ventilation has been installed for service in the House of Representatives and the Lobby. A separate and distinct system governs the ventilation of the House restaurant and kitchen. The former system is controlled by automatic devices regulating the admission, exhaustion, and temperature of the air. The latter is purely a system of exhaustion, taking the air from the restaurant rooms, down the dumb waiter, through the kitchen to the exhaust fan, from which it is delivered through a stack to an outlet above the roof. The House system consists essentially of an automatically governed heating coil in the main supply duct, a double-cone pressure fan to force the tempered air over an evaporator supplying the proper percentage of moisture, and large ducts leading to a pressure chamber under the entire floor of the Hall and galleries. From the Hall chamber, which is lined throughout with glazed tile, and which is scoured The Extensions. 989 weekly, the air passes through various grilled risers in the floor and through per- forated boxes under the desks, into the Hall proper; and through specially devised legs attached to the gallery chairs to supply the occupants of the galleries. Regu- lating dampers in the floor permit the accurate distribution of air in average quanti- ties over the entire floor area. The operation of the new system of ventilation has been most successful during the. past session. The Hall has been entirely refurnished with new desks, 400 sections being provided to meet the coming membership due to the new apportionment. The new desks, built of the finest mahogany, are arranged in segmental style, being built in solid sections to suit the arrangement of the riser curves and aisles. They seem to give good satisfaction. Each desk is provided with a suitable push button for calling the pages, who are located in the Hall proper, instead of in the cloak rooms as heretofore. The device registering the member’s call is silent in character. It consists of a glass-faced tank with small disks, which, when the button is pushed and electrical connection made, turns a brown red, the color then gradually fading away in about thirty seconds’ time. The cloak rooms and Lobby of the House have also been refitted with new furni- ture, mantels, and mirrors, and the House galleries with new chairs, elsewhere described. The file room of the House has been entirely refitted with new and modern steel file and other cases. * * * New furniture, carpets, and draperies have been placed in the new committee rooms, old library space. Everything supplied to these rooms has been specially designed. The furniture throughout is of mahogany. Out of the appropriation other than provided for in the laws quoted these new committee rooms have been decorated. Prior to the work the rooms were assigned to the various committees of the House and Senate, which enabled this office to pro- cure designs for decoration suitable to subjects entertained by the several commit- tees. Each room is therefore characteristically treated. The sum of §32,404.28 was expended for this work, paid out of the appropriation “Reconstructing committee rooms, Library space.” A new marble floor has been laid in the principal floor corridor fronting the new Library rooms, at a cost of $4,234. * * * STEEL CASES AND SHELVING, SENATE LIBRARY AND SENATE DOCUMENT ROOM. At the cost of $24,894 the Senate document room has been entirely refitted with modern steel file cases and shelving. Steel book shelving has been installed in the space under the new roof, at the cost of $23,500. The main room of the stationery room of the Senate has been entirely refitted with new steel case work arranged for the particular purposes for which the room is used. The cost of this section of the work was $2,790. * * * [From the “Act Making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, nineteen hundred and four, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1903. (Stats, at Large, v. 32, pt. 1, 1113.)] To procure two new steel boilers of the water-tube type of about two hundred and twenty-five horsepower for the Senate wing of the Capitol, ten thousand five hun- dred dollars. To authorize the Superintendent of the Capitol Building and Grounds to continue the construction of steel cases for the proper protection of the files of the Senate, sixteen thousand seven hundred and thirty-five dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, to be immediately available. IV. THE DOME. [Suggestion of a new Dome. From the report of C. B. Cluskey, architect and engineer, to the Com- mittee on Public Buildings and Grounds, House of Representatives, July 26, 1848. (30— 2, House Report, No. 90, p. 4.)] The Dome should have a proper scaffolding made to traverse around it, so that the workmen could repair it with safety to themselves, and the superintendent have an opportunity of examining it as it progresses. Before doing this, however, it will be necessary to take out some of the ribs which have perished in part, or take it down altogether, for it is wholly out of proportion, and was but a temporary expedient — a mere external covering — when put up, as the architect who designed the building intended that it should be of stone, and of a different shape. 1 would, therefore, recommend the substitution of a colonnade of thirty columns, made of cast iron, rest- ing on the third blocking course, supporting an entablature and segment roof of the same material surmounted by an open tower, finishing with a liberty cap and vane at the top. There are other considerations, independent of the following, which forcibly recommend this suggestion. The external covering will, from time to time, require considerable repairs, and if by accident it should take fire the internal dome would be destroyed, and with it all those valuable paintings in the rotunda, which are much treasured by the nation, as well as endangering the whole structure. Moreover, the light which is now used in the lantern at the top of the pole, and which I would recommend to betaken down,® could be applied differently and more brilliantly by placing a burner lit with gas and a parabolic reflector of twenty inches diameter, made and put up on approved optical principles, between each column, thus producing, by the angle they would make to each other, a combined effect, would illuminate the grounds around, and exhibit the building in beautiful and bold relief for a considerable distance. [House proceedings of Feb. 22, 1855: Congressional Globe, 33 — 2, p. 893.] The House, as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, having under consideration the civil and diplomatic bill for 1856, Representative Harry Hibbard, of New Hampshire, in the chair — Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky. I desire to offer the following amendment: For removing the present dome over the central portion of the Capitol, and the construction of one upon the plan designed by T. U. Walter, architect of the Capitol extension, 8100,000. Mr. Iveitt. Is that to remove the dome on this building? Mr. Stanton. Yes, sir. Mr. Houston. I desire to know whether that amendment comes irorn any com- mittee of this House? 990 a Since the manuscript was written the pole has been removed. Die Dome. 991 Mr. Stanton. No, sir; I offer it upon my own responsibility. It comes recom- mended by no committee, but it comes recommended by a necessity which every gentleman who examines the subject must see. The present dome does very well for the original building, but, as everybody must see, requires to be changed to pre- serve the symmetry of the building when the extensions are completed. It is important that the appropriation should be made now ; and I understand the change can be made beforethe meeting of the next Congress. The architect of the building has designed a dome, the plan of which 1 have seen, and which commends itself to my judgment; and which all who have seen it say is most beautiful and perfect. It is well known that the present dome is entirely too low to preserve the symmetry of the building when the extensions are completed. It will give it a squatty appearance, if I may be allowed the expression. Unless this is done the whole purpose of the extensions, so far as its beauty of construction is concerned, will be defeated. Now, sir, I understand that the plan proposed by the architect is a proper one, and that it will not be attended with great cost. That dome has always been an eye-sore to architects and others who have taste in such matters; and it seems to me that now is the appropriate time to authorize the reconstruction of it. It can be, perhaps, completed before we get back here during the next fall. I am requested to say that it is designed to construct it of cast iron, and from the experience which the architect has had in these matters I have no doubt he will make it a very perfect thing. No man can look at the library, which is constructed entirely of cast iron, without being immediately convinced that such a structure can be erected as will be a credit to the architect and to the country. Mr. Greenwood. I understand that the gentleman from Kentucky has offered this amendment upon his own responsibility, and that it has not been proposed by any committee having charge of the subject. 1 have no doubt but what we might find objects about this Capitol upon which to spend money for the next fifty years. I have no doubt that we might find some beautiful drawings by experienced archi- tects which would suggest something that might beautify the Capitol. But while, I trust, I have some national pride, I am opposed to making these useless expenditures. I am opposed to the amendment, and hope the committee will vote it down. Mr. Sollers. I move to increase the appropriation one dollar. My object in rising is not to discuss the question of improving the architecture of the Capitol, but I wish to say that I am not much in favor of any of these new schemes of improvement. I have been over the Capitol extension with my friend from Kentucky, [Mr. Stanton,] and have looked at it carefully; and if I had to designate it, I would call it the pill- box style of architecture — one box above another, and no light or air from any quarter except by artificial means. I do not think you can get anybody to put up an iron dome, as my friend thinks. My impression is, that whenever Congress enters into a contract of this sort with anybody, it is always cheated. I do not object to the amendment because an iron dome would not be a good dome, if it could be constructed; but does the history of the architecture of the world present an example of an iron dome? I have done. Mr. Taylor, of Ohio. I think that it would be very wrong for this committee to inter- fere between the superintendent of the Capitol extension and the very eminent architect who is to cooperate with him in the work. Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky. Allow me to say that there is no conflict whatever between them. Mr. Taylor. I am aware of that; but I understand that the gentleman proposes, by this amendment, to remove the present dome from the central portion of the Capitol, and construct, in place of it, one designed by Thomas U. Walter, the archi- tect of the Capitol extension, to be constructed under his direction. Now, sir, if Messrs. Meigs and Walter had communicated to us that this was necessary I should most cheerfully have voted for it. 992 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Stanton. If the gentleman is afraid of a conflict, I will strike out that part of the amendment providing that the work shall be done under the direction of the architect. / Mr. Taylor. I do not say that there is any conflict, hut I dislike that the House should undertake to direct what kind of dome shall be placed on the Capitol of the United States. I know nothing of architecture; but I have the utmost confidence in Captain Meigs, the eminent engineer, who has been designated by the President to superintend the building, and I believe Mr. Walter has not a superior, as an archi- tect, in this or any other country. I am content to make the appropriations neces- sary to complete this great building — an honor to our country, and which is progressing, as far as I can see, to the satisfaction of everybody; and I am not pre- pared to reflect on the plan of the building, as the gentleman from Maryland [Mr. Sollers] seems to have done. It appears to be progressing beautifully. I believe that Captain Meigs and Mr. Walter, who have submitted plans for this work — which any gentleman can see who will walk into the new building — are eminently entitled to our confidence, and that we ought not to interfere with them, or direct in what manner the dome shall be placed on the Capitol. Mr. Sollers. Will the gentleman allow me one question? Mr. Taylor. Yes, sir. Mr. Sollers. The gentleman has had great experience, and has traveled abroad, which I have not. I would ask him if he believes that the House of Representatives of the United States, which will have to contain a great many more members than it now does, and therefore ought to be larger, can ever be supplied with air by artificial means? Mr. Taylor. I can only say, as I said before, that I am no architect, and am not acquainted with the best modes of ventilating and lighting buildings. But I will say to the gentleman that the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds have been informed by Captain Meigs and Mr. Walter, the architect, that the best talent of this country has been invoked to insure proper lighting and ventilating of the new Capitol extension. 1 may mention Professors Bache and Henry as among them. After consultation with these gentlemen, and others, a plan has been adopted for ventilating and lighting the new parts of this building. Now, what are we to do? Are we, who are not versed in architecture, to disarrange a plan which has been adopted by eminent scientific men? It is true, as my friend from Maryland says, that I have had some experience, and have seen some buildings, both at home and abroad, but I do not profess to understand anything of architecture. I can admire a fine building. I know when one is well lighted. I know that this Hall, though well lighted, is very poorly ventilated, and I trust that the new one will be better prepared to accommodate the members of the House. Mr. Stanton. I will modify my amendment by striking out that portion of it which proposes to put the construction of the dome under the direction of the archi- tect. Now, I desire to say this with reference to the plan. I understand that the plan is one which has been studied by the architect, and that it is approved by the engineer, as well as by the architect. There is no conflict between them in the world. They both believe that the design is practicable, that it is necessary to the perfection of the building, and that without it the building would be imperfect. I understand further, that they desire this appropriation. I understand from the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds that he was called upon — very recently, it is true — to summon his committee together, but something intervened and prevented it, or the matter would have been properly before the committee. I believe that the chairman of the committee concurs with me in my views upon this subject. I repeat that there is no sort of conflict between the engi- neer and the architect. The Dome. 993 Mr. Taylor. If the words “under the direction of the architect” are stricken out, there will probably be no conflict. Mr. Stanton. I have modified my amendment in that way. Mr. Sollers. I withdraw my amendment to the amendment. The question recurred on Mr. Stanton’s amendment. Mr. Tweed demanded tellers. Tellers were ordered; and Messrs. Stuart, of Michigan, and Witte were appointed. The question was taken; and the tellers reported — ayes 70, noes 70. The Chairman. The Chair votes in the affirmative. So the amendment w'as adopted. [House proceedings of Feb. 24, 1855: Congressional Globe, 33 — 2, p. 931.] CIVIL AND DIPLOMATIC BILL. The Speaker. The business first in order is the consideration of the civil and dip- lomatic bill, and the amendments reported from the Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union. * * * The next amendment was reported, as follows: For removing the present dome over the central portion of the Capitol, and the construction of one under the plan designed by T. U. Walter, architect of the Capitol extension — $100,000. The question was taken; and the House concurred in the amendment. [From the “Act making Appropriations for the civil and diplomatic expenses of Government, for the year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and fifty-six, and for other purposes,” ap- proved Mar. 3, 1855. (Stats, at Large, v. 10, p. 663.)] For removing the present dome over the central portion of the Capitol, and the construction of one upon the plan as designed by Thomas FT. Walter, architect of the Capitol extension, under the direction of the President of the United States, one hundred thousand dollars. [From the annual report of Capt. M. C. Meigs, Superintendent of the Capitol Extension, Oct. 14, 1855. 34 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 2, p. 117.)] Washington, November 16, 1S55. Dear Sir: I have the honor to report the progress of operations for rebuilding the dome of the Capitol. At the termination of the last session of Congress, an appropriation was made for removing the old dome, a great part of which was constructed of wood, and for replacing it by one of cast iron, incombustible, and of a design more appropriate to the building as enlarged. At that time the exterior elevation only of the dome had been studied, and a drawing sketched, showing the general effect of the whole building as completed. Immediately after the appropriation was made, the study of the details of the exterior and the design'for the interior were taken up. The design for the exterior has been revised, and an elaborate drawing of it made upon a large scale. The design of the interior was made at the same time with this drawing, the dis- tribution of parts and decorations of the exterior and interior being so made as to correspond. The more careful and deliberate study then given to the subject lias resulted in an improvement of the proportions of the whole design. H. Rep. 640 63 994 Documentary History of the Capitol. The exterior presents a noble peristyle, 124 feet in diameter, of columns 27 feet in height resting upon an octagonal base or stylobate, which itself is 93 feet above the basement floor. The top of the entablature of the peristyle is at the height of 127 feet above the basement floor. From this entablature springs an attic 44 feet in height and 108 feet in diameter; and from the cornice of the attic, the great dome, of a semi-ellipsoidal form, rises to a height of 228 feet. The lantern on top of this dome is 17 feet in diameter, and 52 feet high, and will be crowned by a bronze statue of Liberty 16 feet 6 inches in height, rising to the height of 300 feet above the basement floor of the building. The interior of the rotundo will remain unchanged to the height of the stone cor- nice 44 feet above the floor. Above this cornice a vertical wall will be raised, with a deep recessed panel nine feet in height, to be filled with sculpture, forming a con- tinuous frieze three hundred feet in length, of figures in alto relievo. The subject to be the history of America. The gradual progress of a continent from the depths of barbarism to the height of civilization; the rude and barbarous civilization of some of the Ante-Columbian tribes; the contests of the Aztecs with their less civilized predecessors; their own conquest by the Spanish race; the wilder state of the hunter tribes of our own regions; the discovery, settlement, Avars, treaties; the gradual advance of the white, and retreat of the red races; our own revolutionary and other struggles, with the illustration of the higher achievements of our present ch'ilization, will afford a richness and \ r ariety of costume, character, and incident, which may worthily employ our best sculptors in its execution, and which will form for future ages a monument of the present state of the arts in this country. Above the frieze the interior will be enriched by a series of attached columns, with large windows in the interspaces, giving ample light to the rotundo. Above this colonnade a dome Avill spring, which, contracting to a space of 65 feet in diameter, will, through its opening, permit the eye to see another and lighter colonnade at a higher leA^el. The whole being closed in at the base of the lantern, and at a height of 203 feet above the pavement of the rotundo, by a second dome of 73 feet span. This upper dome, lighted by openings around its base, should be richly painted. Galleries at various heights of stairs between the inner and outer shells of the build- ing will afford easy access to all parts of the dome, and from thence will be obtained a series of most picturesque views of the interior of the rotundo, and of the beautiful surrounding scenery. The whole will form a fitting centre to this magnificent building, the very central meeting-point of a great nation. The magnitude and complication of this structure makes laborious and careful study necessary in the drawings and preparations for its execution. It will be proper to employ the resources of several foundries in its construction. By making careful drawings, and supplying to each founder a standard United States scale, the patterns, though made in different places, can all be made to correspond, so as to insure their fitting properly. Each casting will be so made as to allow in all its important bearing points a small surplus of metal to be turned or cut off by machinery, so as to insure a perfect fit, and bring into play the full strength of the material. The columns for the peristyle ha\’e been already put in hand. The patterns are nearly completed by Messrs. Pool & Hunt, of Baltimore. Thin shafts, 27 feet in length, will be cast in a A'ertical position in dry sand. For this purpose the founders have been obliged to sink a pit in their foundry nearly 30 feet in depth. This will be lined with a cast-iron curb to make it perfectly water-tight. By this means it is expected to secure castings perfectly straight and true. The Dome. 995 The patterns for the foliage of the capitals are nearly ready for the foundry. These patterns have been cast in bronze, and require only fitting to the bell of the capital to be ready for casting in iron. The complication of these patterns, and the skill required to prepare them, can hardly be conceived by one who has not had occasion to execute, with perfect sharp- ness and relief in metal, the intricate and elaborate foliage and volutes of a Corinthian capital. The wall of the present rotundo is, where it rises above the roof of the old build- ing, about five feet in thickness. This wall will be the base upon which the weight of the whole structure will be thrown. The old dome being removed to a level about five feet above the interior cornice of the rotundo, a vertical wall of twenty feet in height will be carried up, and upon a strong iron curb the cast-iron structure will be commenced. This foundation plate will be made of cast-iron, with a massive band of wrought iron let into it. The pilasters and pillars of the drum of the dome will be securely bolted down to this foundation plate, and the pedestals of the columns of the peristyle being tied to the wrought-iron band, the whole will be so united as to insure perfect stability. There are few of the great domes of the Old World which have not begun to show symptoms of decay. Irregularities in the settlement of their massive foundations cause cracks, which break the bond of the masonry of which they are generally composed. In some cases the wrought-iron bands which were originally introduced in their construction have been broken by the immense forces thus called into play, and new ones have been added to them in more modern times. Those who have visited Rome will remember the threatening cracks in the great dome of the Pantheon of Agrippa, and will have heard of, if they have not seen, the iron hoops by which the dome of St. Peter’s has been reinforced. Our structure being built of the strongest material used in construction, admits of a lightness and yet of a strength which cannot be attained in masonry. Each course in its construction will be so united as to form a continuous chain, capable of itself resisting all the thrusts it may receive from the parts above it. At the same time, the ease with which a pattern once made is repeated in iron, enables us to erect it at far less cost than anything of the same magnitude and magnificence in another material. Instead of months spent in the elaborate carving of columns and cornices, the pattern once made, a few days suffices to multiply it as often as may be required. The arrangements for demolishing the old dome and erecting the new one, required careful study and extensive preparation. The lower part of the interior dome of the rotundo is of brick. Upon this brick- work rests a course of heavy cut-stone voussoirs, from which spring wooden ribs which supported a lath and plaster ceiling. The exterior dome was entirely of wood, covered with copper. A scaffold has been erected in the form of a triangular tower, 18 feet base and 100 feet in height. This rises a little above the eye of the old dome. Upon this will be placed a derrick built of two sticks of timber, mast and boom, each 80 feet in length; the diameter of the peristyle of the dome being 124 feet, and that of the circle commanded by the boom-derrick 160 feet. Every piece of iron to be used can be set by the derrick. By this means we avoid the use of the immense and expensive scaffolding generally used in these constructions. As it is important to interfere as little as possible with the use of the old building during the construction of the dome, a temporary wooden roof has been thrown over the rotundo. An offset of 3£ inches in the rotundo wall just above the cornice sup- ports a set of wooden rafters, so framed together, in the form of a cone, that they were erected without the use of other scaffolding than the central derrick tower. Documentary History of the Capitol. 996 A wooden curb against the wall took the thrust of these rafters as they were raised, and prevented any tendency to cause the wall to spread. The boards with which they are covered are doubled at the lower edge of the roof. They break joint and serve as continuous ties. By this means a very light and yet very strong and substantial conical roof, 96 feet in diameter, has been made, which, while supported by an offset of 31- inches in the masonry, exerts no outward thrust upon the wall. By twelve large glazed windows, sufficient light is admitted to allow of the rotundo being used as though no work was going on above. At first, a light covering of canvas was intended; but the height at which the work above is to be carried on is so great, that the smallest object dropped by a workman would have penetrated anything less substantial; and thus a chisel or hammer falling from a careless hand might have been productive of fatal effects. This roof is now nearly completed; and while writing this, it has saved the life of a workman who fell from above. The lath and plaster of the interior dome, and the copper and part of the framing of the exterior, have been removed. The work of demolishing the masonry will be one of difficulty not unattended with danger; but by the employment of proper precautions, in careful hands, I expect to accomplish it without accident. The great height of the derrick to be used upon the dome above the points from which it must be stayed, made it necessary to use for its stays wire-rope. These have been manufactured, for the purpose, at the wire-rope factory of Mr. Roebling, at Trenton, N. J. Most of the rope has been received; but one or two coils are still needed . The castings and other materials for the dome will be hoisted by a steam-engine, placed upon the top of the Capitol near the base of the dome. The engine has been procured, but the platform upon which it is to stand and the hoisting-crabs are not yet completed. The heaviest single casting to be used in the dome will weigh ten tons. The parts of all the derricks and cranes have been so proportioned as to lift this weight safely. A crane, worked also by the steam-engine, will raise the castings from the ground and place them upon the platform by the steam-engine, and within reach of the great derrick on the central tower. All these preparations are in a forward state. The central scaffold or tower is completed. The temporary roof of the rotundo is finished, except the painting of its canvas sheeting and the completion of the copper rain-gutter. The machinery and castings of the derrick are nearly ready. The spars are fitted and placed within the tower, ready to be raised as soon as the remainder of the wire stays are received. The crab for the steam hoisting apparatus is in progress. The large lathes — one of 27 feet in length, for turning and jointing the ends of the column shafts, the other a horizontal-face plate lathe, for turning the bases and capi- tals of the columns, and for fitting other parts of the work — are set up in an addition of the machine shop of the Capitol Extension, now being erected. The importance of having all parts of this Avork accurately fitted, in order that when set up they may come together without difficulty and with the least possible hand-work, has led to the determination, while procuring the castings from different skilful founders, to do all the fitting on the spot. The more perfect the bearing surfaces, the stronger the work, and the lighter it will be possible to make it. In the building of the New Y ork Crystal Palace, it was found that different parts coming from different and distant foundries, worked from different scales, and with different allowances for shrinkage, required to be fitted upon the ground in order to bring them together. The great height of the dome makes it difficult to find workmen who are effective. The Dome. 997 In the demolition of the old one, men, strong and active on the ground, were found to crawl about upon these heights, some of them unable even to stand upright, and few of them at first able to do a reasonable day’s work, such is the effect upon the nerves of the sensation of height. This makes it the more necessary that the parts should be perfectly fitted before they are hoisted to their places. Cash account. Appropriated March 4, 1855 $100,000 00 Expended in year ending September 30, 1855 6, 173 74 Amount available for fiscal year ending June 30, 1856 93, 826 26 Required for service of fiscal year ending June 30, 1857 100, 000 00 Respectfully, your obedient servant, M. C. Meigs, Captain of Engineers, Supt. Hon. Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War. [From the annual report of Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War, Dec. 3, 1855. (34 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 2, p. 18.)] At the last session, Congress adopted a plan and made an appropriation for a new dome to the Capitol. No estimate of the cost of the work had been submitted, nor has any yet been prepared. In fact, at that time only the exterior had been studied, and a sketch made showing the general effect of the whole building as completed. The study of the details has since been entered into, and I refer to the report of the officer in charge for a narrative of his operations, as well as for a full description of the con- templated structure, which promises to be an object of rare architectural beauty. The resources exhibited in the machinery designed to raise the enormous masses of iron composing the dome, and to place them accurately in their elevated positions, reflect the highest credit upon the capacity and skill as an engineer of the officer in charge of the work. [MSS.: Military Book, Letters Sent, War Office, No. 37, Record and Pension Office, War Department.] War Department, Washington, Jan. 15, 1856. Capt. M. C. Meigs, In charge of Capitol Extension, Washington City: Sir: The second photograph of the statue with which it is proposed to crown the dome of the Capitol, impresses me most favorably. Its general grace and power, striking at first view, has grown on me as I studied its details. As to the cap, I can only say, without intending to press the objection formerly made, that it seems to me its history renders it inappropriate to a people who were born free and would not be enslaved. The language of art, like all living tongues, is subject to change; thus the bundle of rods, if no longer employed to suggest the functions of the Roman Lictor, may lose the symbolic character derived therefrom, and be confined to the single signification drawn from its other source — the fable teaching the instructive lesson that in Union there is strength. But the liberty cap has an established origin in its use, as the badge of the freed slave; and though it should have another emblematic meaning to- day, a recurrence to that origin may give to it in the future, the same popular accepta- tion which it had in the past. 998 Documentary History of the Capitol. Why should not armed Liberty wear a helmet? Her conflict being over, her cause triumphant, as shown by the other emblems of the statue — the visor would be up so as to permit, as in the photograph, the display of a circle of stars — expressive of end- less existence and of heavenly birth. With these remarks, I leave the matter to the judgment of Mr. Crawford; and I need hardly say to you, who know my very high appreciation of him, that I certainly would not venture, on a question of art, to array my opinion against his. Very respectfully, your obt. servt., Jeff’n Davis, Secretary of War. [House of Representatives, Mis. Doc. No. 65, 34th Congress, 1st session. New Dome on the Capitol. Sundry letters addressed to the Chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means, in reference to the projected New Dome on the Capitol. March 17, 1856, referred to the Committee of Ways and Means, and ordered to be printed.] War Department, Washington , March 5, 1856. Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith reports from the engineer in charge of the Capitol extension, and the architect of the work, in reply to your letter of the 27th ultimo, requiring the amount expended of the appropriation for removing the old and constructing a new dome, the amount required to complete it, and whether any change has been made in the original plans. This work was authorized by Congress upon plans adopted by a committee, with- out any consultation with this department. When preparing the last annual report, endeavored to obtain an estimate of the cost of completing the work, but the plans and drawings were not so far advanced as to enable the engineer to furnish it. For the same reason, the engineer is still unable to prepare a reliable estimate; but the architect, in his report herewith transmitted, states that the cost will probably amount to $945,000. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Jeff’n Davis, Secretary of War. Hon. L. D. Campbell, Chairman Committee of Ways and Means, Ho. of Reps. Office of Extension of United States Capitol, Washington, D. C., March 5, 1856. My Dear Sir: I return the letter of the Hon. L. D. Campbell, chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means, referred to me for a report. The committee ask for a statement — 1st, of the amount expended of the appropri- ation of $100,000 “for removing the present dome over the central portion of the Capitol, and the construction of one upon the plan as designed by Thos. U. Walter, architect of the Capitol extension, under the direction of the President of the United States,” per act approved March 3, 1855. The annual report from this office of 26th November last, which accompanied your annual report to the President, gave a complete account of the work and the expend- iture up to that time. By referring to my books, I find that the appropriation of 3d March, 1855, was $100, 000 00 Expended to 3d of March, 1856 23, 229 70 Balance available 3d of March, 1856 76, 770 30 The Dome. 999 2d. Whether there has been any change in the plan originally designed by Mr. Walter, architect as above, (and if so, when the change was ordered,) on which the appropriation of $100,000 was predicated. I have caused the original sketches which were in the Representative Hall when the appropriation was moved by the Hon. Richard H. Stanton, of Kentucky, and voted by the House, to be placed this morning in the room of the Committee of Ways and Means, with the more elaborate drawings since made for construction. By these drawings, ami by the letter of Mr. Walter, herewith enclosed, the com- mittee will be able to judge for themselves as to this point. 3d. An estimate of the cost of the “ new dome of the Capitol,” for which it appears you have submitted an estimate for the fiscal year ending 30th June, 1857, of $100,000. When requested by you, at the time of preparing the annual report, to submit an estimate of the total cost of the dome, I replied that, until the details of construc- tion could be more fully worked out so as to determine the quantity of materials to be used in it, any estimate which I could make would be only conjectural, and I therefore preferred not then to submit a final estimate, the matter being of too great importance for a conjecture. We have since made some progress in the studies, but I do not consider that we yet have the elements of an accurate estimate. As the committee request me, however, I herewith enclose the letter of Mr. Wal- ter, containing an estimate made by himself. Engineers are in the habit of going into greater detail than architects in making up their estimates, though I do not know that they are able in the end to attain much greater accuracy than belongs to the more general estimate of an experienced architect. I have preferred submitting Mr. Walter’s report upon the second and third branches of the letter of the committee, because the matter seems, in a measure, to be treated as personal to him. I may remark, in conclusion, that while the design for the dome is referred to in the law as Mr. Walter’s, the original drawing, and the more detailed drawings since made, have been prepared in this office, in full and free consultation between Mr. Walter and myself, and that I consider that in whatever credit or responsibility there is to be attached to the work hereafter, we have to share. The design I look upon as a very noble and graceful one — one which, if completed, will be an honor to the country, and will compare favorably with those most cele- brated in the old world; while the adoption of cast-iron as the material will materially reduce the cost and the time occupied in its construction, when compared with similar monuments heretofore erected. I have the honor to be your obedient servant, M. C. Meigs, Captain of Engineers, in Charge. Hon. Jeff’n Davis, Secretary of War. Washington, D. C., March 4, 1856. Dear Sir: In compliance with the request contained in your letter of the 1st instant, accompanying which you have sent me a copy of a letter addressed to the Secretary of War by the chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means of the House of Representatives, I proceed to answer the second and third queries con- tained in said letter. The second question is an inquiry as to whether there has been any change in the original plan of the dome of the Capitol, on which the appropriation of $100,000, approved March 3d, 1855, was predicted. In answer to this question, I remark that no essential alteration has been made — no change that could be considered as a departure from the original plan. 1000 Documentary History of the Capitol . In elaborating the details of the structure, it was found necessary to modify some of its features, but the general design remains unchanged. The outline of the cupola has been corrected, so as to make it more graceful; the windows of the peristyle have been simplified, for the purpose of improving the effect of the colonnade; the height has been slightly increased, so as to bring it into better proportion with the entire mass; and the marble attic, designed to be constructed over the centre portico as a base to the dome, has been omitted. The original design, which was before Congress at the time the appropriation was made, together with the working drawings which have since been prepared, will be laid before the committee. By comparing these drawings, it will be seen that the chief modification is the omission of the marble attic alluded to. It was found, upon a careful examination of the upper part of the old Capitol, that such an attic could not be built without expensive additions to the structure below, and after a labored study of the aesthetic effect of the dome when completed, as it would appear from the most advantageous points of sight, it became evident that such an attic, architecturally considered, would he rather an injury than an improvement; it was therefore omitted on the working drawings. But, in case Congress should prefer to retain it, there will be no more difficulty in adding it hereafter, than in building it now; this is, therefore, simply an omission, that may be supplied, if desirable, at some future day. The third query relates to an estimate of the cost of the new dome. As the whole work will be composed of iron furnished by contract, it will be impossible to say exactly what it will cost, until we ascertain at what prices the material can be obtained. I have, however, made an approximate estimate, based upon prices we have heretofore paid for other work on the Capitol extension, and find the total cost to amount to $945,000; whether it exceeds or comes short of this sum, will depend on the price per pound we shall have to pay for the iron, which is a question that nothing short of the actual proposals of the contractors who may offer for the work can decide. I am, dear sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Tho. U. Walter, Arch. Ex. U. S. Capitol and New Dome. Captain M. C. Meigs, U. S. Engineer, in charge of Capitol Extension and New Dome. Office Extension U. S. Capitol, New Dome, &c., dec., March 8, 1856. My Dear Sir: I have received the letter of Hon. L. D. Campbell, chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means, referred to me for a report, and herewith return it with the information required. First. As to the estimated weight of the dome: Mr. Walter, in making the estimate which I had the honor to enclose to you on the 5th instant, assumed that, for that approximate calculation, a thickness of six inches of solid cast-iron around the whole dome would be equal to the total weight. He deduced from this, that the whole dome would weigh about 6,700 tons, or 15,000,000 of pounds. Second. Has an examination of the walls of the Capitol been made to ascertain their capacity to bear the weight of the dome; and if so, who made the examina- tion? and if a report was made, furnish a copy to the committee. Being charged with the construction of the dome, I have myself made the exam- ination which I considered necessary in this case. The Dome. 1001 I have not heretofore made any formal report upon the subject. I find that the wall of the rotundo is built partly of Aquia creek sandstone, partly of brick, and I presume that in the interior of some of the heavier parts of the wall, the filling may be of the common blue gneiss extensively used for rough masonry in this city. I find that the exterior facing of the wall above the roof of the wings is cracked in many places, indicating that the settlement which has taken place in this great mass of masonry has not been perfectly regular. The cellar walls, under the crypt of the rotundo, in plan, form a rectangle of 106X100 feet, out of which are taken a circle of 87 feet diameter under the rotundo, and four small circles of 10 feet diameter in the masses at the corners of the square. This mass continues with little diminution of size up to the roof arches of the attic story. Above the roofs the wall is circular both inside and out, excepting projec- tions to the east and west. The thickness of the circular portion is five feet at the level of the spring of the old dome. It will be necessary to remove a portion of this masonry as low as the level of the spring of the old dome which projects into the rotundo. This I propose to replace with masonry of hard bricks, laid in cement mortar, and well tied together by iron bands laid in the wall. The object of those bands is to prevent any injurious separation taking place in the wall from cracks occurring during the progress of the settlement, which must be expected as the weight is gradually built up. This brick-masonry in cement will form a firm and compact mass, which will transmit the weight of the dome and uniformly distribute it over the whole horizon- tal section of the lower wall. This horizontal section, disregarding the projections to the east and west which do not materially increase the resisting power of the walls, is 5 feet by 300, equal to 1,500 square feet. 15,000,000 pounds equally distributed over this surface is 10,000 pounds to the square foot. By experiments made by Professor Walter R. Johnston in the year 1852, at the request of a select committee of the House of Representatives, of which the Honor- able John McNair was chairman, the weight necessary to crush a cube of Aquia creek sandstone was found to be 5,245 pounds upon each square inch. By experiments lately made by the commission on building materials for the Capitol extension, the crushing weight per square inch of brick varies from 2,500 to 12,842 pounds per square inch. The crushing weight upon a cube of brick and cement mortar cut from the walls of the Capitol extension built by myself, I have ascertained within a day or two to vary from 1,333J pounds to 2,3554 pounds oer square inch. These values give for the crushing weight per square foot — Maximum. Minimum. Of Aquia creek sandstone, in pounds 755, 280 Of brick 1,849,248 360,000 Of brick and mortar about two years old 339, 120 192, 000 The pressure of the dome upon the wall being 10,000 pounds per square foot, is only ^yth part of the strength of the weakest specimen of the brick and mortar in the above table, and only -j^th part of the strongest brick and mortar. It is y-jth of the strength of sandstone, and ^gth of the weakest and y^th of the best brick tried in our experiments. The practical rule adopted by eminent engineers and architects is, that the pressure per square foot upon masonry must not exceed one-tenth the strength of the stone of which it is built. As we will have only yt^th of the crushing weight of the stone, and j^th of that of 1002 Documentary History of the Capitol . the weakest brick we have found that would be likely to be used iu the work, I consider that the wall is quite able to bear the weight of the dome. The weight per square foot upon the foundation of the Girard college is about 13,440 pounds. The table below gives the weights per square foot upon the principal supporting piers of some European domes. Weights per square foot upon the masonry of certain celebrated structures. Pounds. Pillars of the dome of St. Peter’s, Rome _ 33,330 Pillars of the dome of St. Paul’s, London 39,450 Pillars of the dome of St. Genevieve, Paris 60,000 Pillars of the dome of Toussaint, Angers , 90, 000 St. Peter’s is built of travatin; St Paul’s, of Portland stone; St. Genevieve, of lime- stone; Toussaint, a hard shell limestone. All these stones are weaker than Aquia creek sandstone, except the limestone of the church of Toussaint, which is somewhat stronger — crushing under 900,000 pounds to the square foot, while the Aquia creek stone crushes under 755,280 pounds. Comparing the 10,000 pounds per square foot pressure of the new dome of the Capitol with the pressures of the above table, it will be seen that there can be no doubt of the sufficiency of the walls of the rotundo to support the dome. It should be remembered that cast iron is a far lighter material than stone for any building, as its strength is so great that it is used in much smaller quantity. For example, the shafts of the columns of the peristyle of the dome, already cast, weigh 10,000 pounds each. Column shafts of the same length and diameter, cut from the marble of which the Capitol extension is built, would weigh 23,000 pounds. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. C. Meigs, Capt. Engrs. , in charge New Dome, Ex. U. S. Capitol, &c. Hon. Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War. War Department, Washington, March 10, 1856. Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 6th instant, calling on me to furnish information to the Committee of Ways and Means on the following points, viz: 1st. What is the estimated weight of the dome, as proposed in the plan now exhib- ited to the committee? 2d. Has an examination of the walls of the Capitol been made to ascertain their capacity to bear the weight of the dome, &c., Ac.? Your letter was referred to the engineer in charge of the Capitol extension; and from his report, herewith enclosed, it will be found that the estimated weight of the dome is about 6,700 tons, or 15,000,000 pounds; and that an examination of the walls of the Capitol was made by him, which satisfactorily exhibited their capacity to bear the weight of the dome. Though it was found that by the settlement of the structure some cracks had occurred which necessarily weaken the walls, the plan adopted to secure a uniform distribution of the additional weight to be imposed over the whole bearing surface of the supporting walls, together with the wide margin between the strength of the weakest material in them and the pressure of the proposed dome, leave little reason to doubt the correctness of the engineer’s conclusion “that the wall is quite able to bear the weight of the dome.” The Dome. 1003 As the queries propounded on the part of the committee would seem to imply that certain investigations should have been made by this department before the plan of the new dome was submitted, it may not be improper to state that the Congress decided to remove the existing dome and to construct a new one according to a plan specified in the act of appropriation, without an expression of opinion on the part of this department, either as to the purpose for which the appropriation was made, or the architectural design according to which it was to be expended. It is not to be supposed that the sum appropriated was expected to complete the structure accord- ing to the plan adopted. The only discretion which the act left to the Executive was the material out of which the dome was to be constructed, and in this it will be found that the lightest and cheapest material fitted for the purpose has been selected. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Jeff’n Davis, Secretary of War. Hon. Lewis D. Campbell, Chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means. War Department, Washington, March 14, 1856. Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 13th instant, respecting the weignt and cost of the projected new dome for the Capitol, and inquir- ing, by direction of the Committee of Ways and Means, “First, whether they are to act upon the hypothesis that the weight of the whole dome would be about 6,700 tons, or 15,000,000 of pounds; and if so, whether upon the responsibility of the engi- neer in charge, of the architect, or of both. Second. In reference to the estimate for its completion, whether $945,000, as set forth in the letter of Mr. Walter of the 4th March, 1856, which accompanied one from you [the Secretary of War] of the 5th March, 1856, is sufficient; and if so, whether upon the responsibility of the engineer in charge, of the architect, or of both; if not, what sum will be required.” In reply to these inquiries, I have to state that the estimates both of the weight and cost of the dome, are those of the architect, whose plan of the dome was adopted by Congress, and the estimates are given upon his responsibility. This department is unable to submit, at present, any more reliable estimates than those, and can suggest no other hypothesis for the action of the committee. The engineer in charge of the construction of the dome was called upon by me before the meeting of Congress for an estimate of the total cost of the construction. He then replied that the study of the details had not progressed far enough to enable him to make an estimate, and such continued to be his position when the estimate of the architect was sent to you as the best answer the department could give to your inquiry of the 27th ultimo. The plan of the dome having been designed by Mr. Walter, and adopted by Con- gress without an estimate of the engineer, without the recommendation, and, I may add, without the concurrence of this department, the style, upon which will mainly depend the cost of the structure, must be better understood by the architect and such members of your committee as were in the last Congress than by myself. This department had no other means of judging how Congress intended the interior to be finished, than by inspection of the plan designated in the act of appropriation. This exhibited a high order of architecture, and thus indicated an expensive style of interior finish. The cost would unquestionably be reduced by adopting a lower standard than that on which the architect made his estimate, and, on the other hand, it could as certainly be magnified by a more ornate style of interior finish than was contemplated by him. This department, therefore, can say no more than that the 1004 Documentary History of the Capitol. appropriations shall be expended in the most economical manner to secure whatever purpose Congress had, or may have, in reference to the dome, and, in the absence of more specific information, will take care to conform the interior (the details of which are not yet decided) as nearly as possible to the exterior, as shown in the plan which has been approved by Congress. Very repectfully, your obedient servant, Jeff’n Davis, Secretary of War. Hon. L. D. Campbell, Chairman Committee of Ways and Means, H. R. U. S. Capitol Extension, Post Office Extension, and Washington Aqueduct Office, Washington, March 15, 1856. My Dear Sir: As the questions relating to the dome, now under discussion in the committee, may refer to the origin of the appropriation, I beg leave to give you a reference to the debate in the Globe on 22d February, 1855: Motion by Mr. Stanton of Kentucky. Mr. Houston, chairman of Ways and Means, asked whether that motion came from any committee. Mr. Stanton replied, “ No, sir. I offer it on my own responsibility. It comes recommended by no committee,” Ac., &c. After debate, in which Messrs. Greenwood, Sollers, Stanton, and Taylor took part, vote 70 to 70, a tie; chairman voted aye. February 24th, vote on amendment, and there seems to have been no opposition. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. C. Meigs, Captain. Hon. Lewis D. Campbell, Chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means. [A debate on the new Dome, incidently, occurred in the House of Representatives on May 26, 1856, reproduced in the section relating to the Capitol Extension from Congressional Globe, 34 — 1, Appendix, p. 624.] [House of Representatives, Mis. Doc. No. 124, 34th Congress, 1st Session. New Dome on the Capitol. Letter from the Secretary of War, communicating a report from Captain Meigs, showing the amount of money required to meet the contracts entered into in connection with the New Dome. June 21, 1856, referred to the Committee of Ways and Means.] War Department, Washington, May 17, 1856. Sir: I herewith enclose a report from Captain M. C. Meigs, containing the state- ment requested in your letter of the 8th instant, of “the amount required to meet the contracts already entered into in connection with the new dome of the Capitol.” Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Jeff’n Davis, Secretary of War. Hon. L. D. Campbell, Chairman Committee of Ways and Means, House of Representatives. The Dome. 1005 U. S. Capitol Extension, Post Office Extension, and Washington Aqueduct Office, Washington , May 16, 1856. My Dear Sir: I have made engagements for the thirty-six cast-iron columns, including shafts, bases, and capitals, for the peristyle of the dome. They weigh about 11,745 pounds each, or 422,823 pounds in all. At the price at which they are delivered on the cars at Washington — 3 T % cents per pound — these will cost $14,375 98 We have already received and paid for 297,719 pounds, at 3 T 4 T cents 10, 122 42 2 Balance (to be delivered) 125,104 pounds, at 3-j^ cents 4, 253 56 J No other engagement has been made for the supply of the material for the dome. There are a number of persons employed in the shops, and the current expenses for their wages are about $900 per month. There is now available of the appropriation for the dome the sum of $66,383. I return the letter of the Hon. L. D. Campbell, chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means, of the 8th instant, referred to me for report. The delay in making this report has been caused by waiting for the receipt of a portion of the ornamental castings for the capitals of the columns, which, daily expected, arrived only yesterday. I wished, by actual trial, to determine their exact weight before sending in this estimate. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. C. Meigs, Captain Engineers, in charge neiv dome, Extension United States Capitol, &c., &c. Hon. Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War. [Senate proceedings of July 14, 1856: Congressional Globe, 34 — 1, p. 1614.] DOME OF THE CAPITOL. Mr. Hale submitted the following resolution; which was considered by unanimous consent, and agreed to: Resolved . , That the Committee on Public Buildings be instructed to inquire into the expediency of suspending operations on the dome of the Capitol, and of removing the present old structure and replacing it by some building in symmetry with the new wings now in progress of construction, so that the whole building, when completed, may be uniform and symmetrical, and conformable to the requirements of a chaste, simple, and modern architecture. [No report made.] [Senate proceedings of August 14, 1856; Congressional Globe, 34 — 1, p. 2099.] ENLARGEMENT OF THE CAPITOL. Mr. Iverson. I desire to present a resolution of inquiry, which I ask the Senate to act upon at once: Resolved, That the memorial and papers of C. B. Cluskey, architect and civil engineer, asking to be compensated for the plan projected by him, for the “enlargement of the Capitol,” and presented on the 1st day of December, 1850, in pursuance of the Senate’s resolution of the 25th of September pre- vious, (which plan was approved, and its adoption recommended by the examining architects,) be taken from the files of the Senate, and referred to the Committee on Public Buildings; and that said committee examine and compare his design for a cast-iron dome over the rotunda, with associate subordinate features on the wings, as shown on said plan, with the plan on which the dome is pro- posed to be erected, and report their relative cost and adaptation to the whole structure in its present extended length and form; also, how far the design of Mr. Cluskey is embodied and about to be used 1006 Documentary History of the Capitol. in the proposed plan; and what compensation, if any, should be allowed him for being the first to devise and recommend the improvement of the dome by one of cast-iron, of increased architectural proportions and harmony of design, as described in his report on the public buildings here in 1849: (see report No. 90 of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, Thirtieth Congress, second session. ) I desire the resolution to go to the Committee on Public Buildings at the present session; and ask them now to act on it or not, as they please. Mr. Cass. I have not the slightest objection; but there is an assertion of fact in the resolution of which I know nothing. It is, that this man was the first to propose the plan. Mr. Iverson. That is to be inquired into by the committee. Mr. Cass. It seems to me the resolution states a fact, and I do not know whether it is true or not. Mr. Bayard. I have not the slightest objection to the reference of the resolution to the Committee on Public Buildings; but the honorable Senator who presents it need not expect any report at this session of Congress. It is utterly impossible for us to act on it now. It is mingling with the construction of the Capitol some matter of private claim as to the original design, as I understand from the reading of it. I think it cannot be expected that we should make that investigation at this ses- sion, but I will do so at the next session, if I am still a member of the committee. Mr. Seward. I desire to hear the indicative portion of that resolution read, and I want to know whether I commit myself to any assertion of fact by the recital. Mr. Cass. Why not let the memorial be simply referred? Mr. Seward. The Senator’s objection is met by inserting the words “ as he alleges” after “projected by him.” Mr. Iverson. I have no objection to that modification. The resolution, as modified, was agreed to. [From the “Act making appropriations for certain civil expenses of the Government for the year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and fifty-seven,” approved Aug. 18, 1856 (Stats, at Large, v. 11, 86.)] For continuing the construction of the new dome of the Capitol, one hundred thousand dollars. [From the annual report of Capt. M. C. Meigs, in charge of construction of the New Dome, Novem- ber, 1856. (34 — 3, Senate Ex. Doc. No. 5, v. 2, p. 223.)] Office of Extension of United States Capitol, Washington, November 13, 1856. Dear Sir: I have the honor to report the progress of operations for rebuilding the dome of the Capitol. At the date of my last annual report, the temporary roof over the rotundo was in place, and required only painting to be finished. The upper and wooden portion of the old dome was partly demolished. The iron work and other parts of the derricks and cranes were nearly ready. As the removal of the lower part of the old dome, composed of stone and brick masonry, would necessarily be attended with great noise and dirt, and was not with- out danger to the occupants of the rotundo, it was not thought proper to attempt it during the session of Congress. There was also much misapprehension in Congress in regard to the plans and esti- mates for the stone, and some disposition was indicated in the committees to recom- mend a change in the plan which had been adopted by Congress. For these reasons the work was confined to completing the derricks, cranes, and other machinery, and T}ie Dome. 1007 to the casting of the columns of the peristyle of the dome. These could all be made useful in any plan which might be finally adopted by Congress. At the end of the session the machinery was all complete and in place. One of the iron columns was hoisted to the top of the eastern portico, for the purpose of testing the working of the derricks and steam-hoisting apparatus, and showing the effect of the colonnade at that height. The full consideration given to the matter in Congress resulted in an appropriation of one hundred thousand dollars for continuing the work upon the plan first adopted by them. Immediately after the adjournment, in August, the demolition of the masonry was commenced. The exterior facing of the dome and of the rotundo wall, above the roof of the Capi- tol, was of cut sandstone. The arch of the inner dome itself, for about two-thirds of its height, was of brick, with a heavy stone curb at the top, in which the wooden structure rested. The stone work has been removed down to the broad projecting exterior cornice, which, at a height of sixty-four feet above the rotundo floor, terminates the vertical wall. The brick lining has been removed down to the level of the interior cornice, forty- eight feet above the floor. The track of the stone work of the wall above the interior cornice is thus exposed. The stone proves to be well cut, but badly set. The joints are not well filled with mortar, and that which partly fills them is not of good quality. The use of hydraulic cement was unknown in the country when this masonry was laid. Many of the stones are broken by the unequal settlement, and unequal bear- ing to which they were exposed from this faulty construction. Below r this level the wall is Composed principally of brick, with an interior facing of cut stone. In order to secure a firm and solid foundation for the iron w r ork, the brick lining which has been removed is being replaced by brick work laid in cement mortar, and tied together with hoop-iron bands. The joints of the stone work are being cleaned out and filled with a grout, com- posed of cement and water, without sand. This grout can be injected, so as to per- fectly fill the joints and secure a proper support for every stone. The brick and stone will be connected by numerous iron cramps, and by heavy iron ties let into the stone, in addition to the hoop-iron bands, used in the brick work. By this means I expect to make a capping to the wall of some twenty feet in height, perfectly solid, and so tied together that it will act- as one mass to distribute the weight of the dome over the whole of the lower wall. Of the strength of this con- struction there can be no doubt. The sandstone of which the outer facing is composed crushes under a weight of 750.000 pounds to the square foot. The bricks vary in strength from 360,000 to 1.772.000 pounds to the square foot. Experiments which I have made upon small cubes of brick and mortar taken from the works of the Capitol extension, only two years old, gave a strength of 192,000 to 339.000 pounds to the square foot. Those five years old bore 700,000 pounds to the square foot. These results so far exceed the strength required for resisting the crushing weight of the iron work, as to leave no room for anxiety on that point The most striking example of the tenacity given to brick work Dy the use of hoop iron band, is the experimental arch built by Brunei at the Thames tunnel. This was a semi arch projecting from the face of a pier to a distance of sixty feet. A cor- responding projection on the other side of the pier served to balance it. By the skillful use of hoop iron in the horizontal joints of the spandrils, and of hard brick and cement throughout, an arch was thus projected from the side of a pier equiva- lent to the half of an arch of 120 feet span, with only ten feet rise. 1008 Documentary History of the Capitol. Part of the iron work for the dome is already delivered. The 36 columns of the peristyle, 27 feet in height, with their caps and bases, have been received. The shafts, caps, and bases have all been turned and fitted together. Some of the caps have been fitted with their foliage and volutes, but this work is not yet completed. There are two cast-iron cornices, with a row of enriched panels, to be built into the brick wall below the colonnade. The brackets which support the lower cornice, and part of those which support the upper cornice, have been received. Part of the panels are also delivered. The plates and foliage which these brackets support, and which make the profile of the cornice, are being manufactured in New York. The heavy brackets, weighing two and a half tons each, upon which the wall and columns of the dome will rest, are about to be cast in Baltimore. The columns, capitals, bases, and shafts were cast in Baltimore, and fitted up in the work-shops here. During the approaching winter, the working drawings for the whole structure will be prepared, and the castings made, to carry the framework up to the height of about one hundred feet above the rotundo floor, and it is hoped that this work can be set soon after the resumption of operations in the spring. There will be required for the service of the fiscal year ending 30th June, 1858, the sum of $500,000. Cash account. Amount available 30th September, 1856 $93,826 26 Appropriated in 1856 100,000 00 193, 826 26 Expended in year ending 30th September, 1856 36,911 41 Available for service of year ending 30th June, 1857 156, 914 85 Required for service of year ending 30th June, 1858 500, 000 00 The total estimate for the dome is 945, COO 00 Appropriated in 1855 $100, 000 Do. 1856 100,000 200 , 000 00 Yet to be appropriated 745,000 00 Of which there will be required for next year $500,000. Respectfully submitted. M. C. Meigs, Captain of Engineers. Hon. Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War. [From the annual report of Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War, Dec. 1, 1856. (34 — 3, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, v. 2, p. 24.)] The work upon the new dome, suspended during the session of Congress, has been resumed. The machinery for the removal of the masonry of the old dome and construction of the new has been erected, and the old dome has been completely demolished. Great care is necessary in forming upon the old walls the foundations to support the iron work; and the means adopted and described in the report of the officer in charge seem well adapted to insure success. The design which was originally adopted by Congress appears to have been in advance of a study of its details and an estimate of its cost. Inquiries by committees The Dome. 1009 of the House of Representatives, and to which the Department replied, indicated a probable change in the plan of the dome; and under these circumstances it has been deemed advisable to await further action. Therefore no estimate is presented by this Department for the continuation of that structure, as the amount that will be required must depend upon the plan to be executed. [From the “Act making appropriations for certain civil expenses of the Government for the year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and fifty-eight,” approved Mar. 3, 1857. f Stats, at Large, v. 11, 226.)] For continuing the work of the new dome of the Capitol, five hundred thousand dollars. [From the annual report of Capt. M. C. Meigs, in charge of construction of the New Dome, Nov. 30, 1857. (35 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 2, vol. 2, p. 45.)] Office of the Extension of the U. S. Capitol, Washington City, November 30, 1857. Sir: I have the honor to report the progress of operations for rebuilding the dome of the Capitol. At the date of my last annual report the old dome had been removed, a temporary roof built over the rotundo, the machinery, derricks, cranes, steam engine, and hoist- ing apparatus prepared, and the operation of rebuilding the upper part of the rotundo wall, in good masonry, to receive the iron work, was in progress. The winter suspended operations upon this work. In the spring it was resumed, and the wall was carried up in brick and cement, with hoop-iron bond, the joints of the old exterior facing of sandstone being grouted and made solid with cement mortar to near the level of the top of the cast-iron brackets, which directly receive the weight of the iron superstructure, and which support upon their outer ends the columns of the peristyle. These brackets, which weigh about two and a half tons each, are embedded in the brick work, held together by the brick, iron, and cement bond, and by a heavy wrought-iron band, also embedded in the brick work. Strong wrought-iron screw bolts also connect their outer ends, forming a continuous hoop of wrought-iron. There are seventy-two of these brackets, weighing in all 479,923J pounds. Upon these rest one hundred and forty-four pillars of cast-iron, twenty-three feet ten and three-quarter inches in height, averaging in weight 4,942 pounds each. These are firmly connected by cast and wrought-iron braces and bolts, and form the skeleton of the wall or drum of the dome from the floor of the peristyle to the top of the columns. Many of these are in place, and others are being daily delivered, fitted, and hoisted to their places. The ends or bearing surfaces of these pillars are turned in a lathe, or planed in a heavy vertical planing machine, which was designed and built for this special purpose. The frame of each of the thirty-six piers between the windows of the principal stage of the. dome is composed of a group of four of these pillars, with their cross- braces and ties. Upon these will rest another tier of heavy castings, which will be connected with the entablature upon the top of the columns by cast and wrought-iron braces and ties. These castings are being made. The columns are all made and fitted. Some of them have been set. Others will be set as the fitting and setting of the floor-plates of the colonnade is completed. The drawings of the details of entablature of windows, of pilasters, and of the skin H. Rep. 04b 04 1010 Documentary History of the Capitol. or outside covering generally of this stage of the dome are completed, and arrange- ments are being made for the casting and manufacture of the iron work. The drawings of the next stage are in progress. The great difficulty and complexity of this structure — one of the. most complicated and difficult works of engineering and architecture ever attempted — have made it impossible to complete all the studies for it as rapidly as I had hoped; but a great quantity of work is now in hand, and will be set during the early part of the next season. Cash account. Available 30th September, 1856 §156, 914 85 Appropriated in 1857 500, 000 00 656, 914 85 Expended in the year ending 30th September, 1857 54, 720 93 Available 30th September, 1857 602, 193 92 No appropriation is asked for the next fiscal year, as the sum now available will be as much as can be judiciously applied during the year. Respectfully submitted. M. C. Meigs, Captain of Engineers, in charge. Hon. J. B. Floyd, Secretary of War. [House proceedings of May 19, 1858: Congressional Globe, 35 — 1, p. 2255.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union having under consideration an item in relation to the Washington Aqueduct, in the Sundry Civil bill for 1859— Mr. Burnett. * * * Now we are told that these estimates were for §2,300,000; what assurance have we that that will complete the work? Gentlemen express the opinion that it will. They say that the agent for the Government says it will; but I call the attention of gentlemen to one solitary improvement in connection with this Capitol, on which estimates w 7 ere furnished. I mean the dome of the Capitol. Mr. Goode. I desire to say that the Superintendent of Public Buildings never made an estimate for that dome. The estimate was made by the architect. Mr. .T. Glancy Jones. I rise to a question of order. The gentleman from Ken- tucky is not confining his remarks to the subject of the amendment. Mr. Burnett. I am giving the reasons wdiy this appropriation should be reduced, and I think I understand as well as the gentleman from Pennsylvania, whether I am confining myself to the subject or not. Now, take this dome of the Capitol — I know it w r as not estimated for by the Superintendent of Public Works, but it is one instance to show an enormous expenditure of public money, over and above the estimates submitted to the House. Now we are told here, that contractors may suffer. The gentleman from Virginia, on my left [Mr. Letcher], says there is no contract made. He is on the Committee of Ways and Means, and certainly ought to know. He speaks by authority. Mr. Letcher. There has been a proposition for bids, and these bids have been made; and from what I understand, the facts are simply these: that these bids are within the estimate of one million dollars; but that the Secretary of War, in the absence of the appropriation, has not completed the contracts. Mr. Burnett. Then, sir, if the contractors lose anything it is their own fault. I am not here for the purpose of legislating for contractors with this Government. I am not here for the purpose of providing for the losses of individuals who may The Dome. 1011 undertake public works; but I am here for the purpose of protecting the interests of the entire country. When we are told that the Treasury has no money in it, and that we must economize, I am for applying the knife where we can best do it with- out injury to the public good. That is my rule. Now, on the subject of this Capitol, we are told that we have to vote a large sum of money for it. Sir, if this economy is necessary, let us commence economizing at the right place; and I know of no better place to commence than on these two appropriations in this bill. [Here the hammer fell.] [From the animal report of Capt. M. C. Meigs, in charge of construction of the New Dome, Nov. 15, 1858. (35 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 2, v. 2, pt. 2, p. 757.)] Office of the Extension of the United States Capitol, Washington, November 15, 1858. Sir: I have the honor to report the progress of operations for rebuilding the dome of the Capitol. At the date of my last annual report the brick work of the walls had been carried to within a foot or two of the top of the brackets on which the piers and columns of the peristyle rest. Some of the pillars of the principal story had been set, and others were being received and fitted. During the past year the skeleton of the principal story in two stages, as high as the top of the cornice of the circular colonnade, has been finished, and the columns have all been set in their places. The height above the base of the iron work is 42] feet. The wrought iron boiler plate band, which connects the whole work, has been secured in its place, and the work made ready for winter. The shell which covers this skeleton, with forms of architectural decoration, is now being prepared by Messrs. James Beebe & Co., at their works in New York, and will be ready to set early next season. It embraces the interior and exterior pilasters and cornices; the window-frames and their mouldings; and the heavy balustrades which surmounts the exterior cor- nice, and will complete the principal story of the w r ork. I should be pleased to be able to report a greater progress in this work, but the want of cordial co-operation on the part of the architect associated with me has much interfered w T ith the studies and drawings of the work. As it appears to me, he has much mistaken his authority and his duty; and, as it was a matter which could be settled only by the department, I have awaited its decision. A careful estimate of the quantity of iron received for the dome, to the month of June last, shows that there had been received of Cast iron 2, 860, 529 lbs. = 1, 277 tons. Wrought iron 237, 247 lbs. = 106 tons. 3, 097, 776 1, 383 The greater part of this iron work was finished and in place upon the dome, and the total expenditure to that date having been $206,391 52, including all expenses for pay of officers and workmen; for making drawings and patterns; for demolishing and removing the old dome and re-building the masonry, and all other incidental expenses; I find that the cost of the iron work p>ut up had averaged, per lb., 6f cents. This average should be diminished as the work progresses, for a large portion of the total expenditure, which is included in making it up, is properly chargeable upon the whole work; such as the first studies of drawings; demolition of the old 1012 Documentary History of the Capitol. dome; rebuilding of masonry to receive the iron work, machinery, derricks, engines, and tools for hoisting and fitting the iron work, &c. A drawing, showing the present state of the work, accompanies this report. Cash account. Available September 30, 1857 _ $602, 193 92 Expended to September 30, 1858 119, 450 43 Available September 30, 1858 482, 743 49 No appropriation was made at the last session, and none is asked this year, as the sum available will be sufficient for the service of the year. Respectfully submitted. M. C. Meigs, Captain of Engineers in charge. Hon. John B. Floyd, Secretary of War. [Annual report of Capt. M. (T. Meigs, in charge of the construction of the New Dome, Oct. 26, 1859. (36 — 1, Senate Ex. Doc. No. 2, v. 2, p. 566.)] Office of the Extension of the U. S. Capitol, Washington, October 26, 1859. Sir: I have the honor to report the progress of operations for rebuilding the dome of the Capitol. At the date of my last annual report the frame-work of the dome, up to and includ- ing the wrought-iron boiler-plate band at the level of the top of the cornice of the cir- cular colonade or peristyle, had been erected. The shell or covering plates for this frame-work were being prepared in New York. A portion of this covering has been received and put up. The workmen are now engaged upon it. No further advance has been made with the frame-work, which remains as at the date of my last annual report. I regret that I cannot report greater progress. The obstacles referred to in my last annual report have prevented it, and a year has thus been lost. There have been received during the year — 750,115 pounds of cast-iron, costing $33,763 28 2,602 pounds of wrought-iron, costing 94 48 The total quantity of iron received from the beginning of the work has been 3,877,0481 pounds. There were applied to the work of the Dome during the year, by all persons employed by the United States, 4,424^ days’ work, costing $10,830.37. Cash account. Available 30th September, 1858 $482, 743 49 Expended to 30th September, 1859 51,358 28 Available 1st October, 1859 431, 385 21 No appropriation was made at the last session, and none is asked this year, as the sum available will be sufficient for the service of the year. Respectfully submitted. M. C. Meigs, Captain of Engineers in Charge. Hon. John B. Floyd, Secretary of War. The Dome. 1013 [Senate proceedings of Feb. 1, I860: Congressional Globe, 36 — 1, p. 647.] DOME OF THE CAPITOL. Mr. Bright. I submit the following resolution: Resolved, That the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds be instructed to inquire whether any doubt, as to the stability and safety of the work of the dome of the Capitol, has caused its slow progress; whether any change has been made in the plans laid before the committees of Congress at the time the appropriations were made; also what relation the prices, paid or to be paid, bear to the original estimates, and whether the estimates are now considered sufficient. What contracts, agree- ment, bids, or proposals for work or materials have been made, invited, or rejected. And whether it is expedient to arrest the continuation of the work. * * * Mr. Bright. These resolutions refer some important matters to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, the appropriate committee to consider them, and I hope there will be no objection to the passage of the resolutions. Mr. Hale. I shall not object to that, and shall vote for them, and if the Senator does not want an amendment I shall not propose any, but if he does not propose an amendment I shall offer a resolution to-morrow instructing them to extend that inquiry still further as to the ability and capacity of the old building to sustain the dome that is to be erected upon it according to the plan. I do not believe it myself, and I think the better way would be to tear that old thing down. Mr. Bright. That is a matter we shall consider of course, if it is the pleasure of the Senate to refer these resolutions to the appropriate committee. I have no objection to an amendment, such as that proposed by the Senator, or he can offer it in a separate form. Mr. Hale. I will offer it to-morrow. Mr. Hamlin. I did not hear the first clause of the resolutions read, and I ask the Senator from Indiana if there is anything there which calls for the amount already expended ? Mr. Bright. There is not. Mr. Hamlin. Then I move to amend the first resolution by adding, at the end of it, the words, “and the amount already expended.” Mr. Bright. To report the amount already expended? Mr. Hamlin. Yes; to report the amount already expended. Mr. Bright. That is shown, however, by the record. Mr. Hamlin. Let us have it altogether. Mr. Bright. Very well. I have no objection to the amendment. The amendment was agreed to; and the resolutions, as amended, were adopted. [Senate Mis. Doc. No. 29. 36th Congress, 1st Session. Letter from the Superintendent of the Capitol Extension, to the Chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, in relation to the Dome and Porticoes of the Capitol. March 5, 1860. — Motion to print referred to the Committee on Printing.] Office United States Capitol Extension and New Dome of the Capitol, Washington , February 29, 1860. Sir: I have the honor, in answer to your letter of the 8th instant, received on the 13th instant, transmitting the resolutions of the United States Senate of the 1st instant, in relation to the Dome and Porticoes of the Capitol, to make the following statement : In order to set at rest the question of the stability of the dome, I have calculated the pressure which the new dome will exert upon the foundations; have compared the weights of the old and new domes, and the pressures per square foot which the 1014 Documentary History of the Capitol. old dome exerted, with that which the new dome will exert. The pressure, per square foot, which will be exerted by the new dome, has been compared with the crushing weight of the materials of which the walls are built. The calculations and comparisons are appended to this report, and are marked A. It will be found, upon consultation of the appendix, that the pressure which will be exerted by the new dome upon the foundation walls is one fifty-sixth of the force necessary to crush the materials of which the wall is built, and that the pressure exerted by it upon the smallest or weakest section of the supporting Avails, is less than one-eleventh of the crushing force of the materials. These figures are obtained, taking ewerything in the most unfavorable state for the dome; that is, taking the crushing force of brick at the smallest number given, and the weight of the dome as great as it can be under the worst circumstances. I consider, therefore, that there is no doubt of the stability of the dome. To show how insignificant the weight of the new dome will be compared to that of a masonry dome of the same dimensions, I have, from its weight, calculated the height of a cylindrical masonry Avail of the same internal diameter as the rotunda, and five feet thick, which will Aveigh as much as the Avhole dome. Starting from the cornice of the rotunda, as seen from the principal story floor, the wall would be less than sixty feet high. The top of the iron Avork noAV erected is higher than this wall would be. The progress of the work upon the dome has not been as slow as at first sight it appears to have been. The whole weight of the iron work of the dome is, in round numbers, thirty-seven hundred tons. Nineteen hundred tons, or more than half of this iron, has already been purchased, and nearly all of it has been erected. It is impos- sible to go on with this part of the work very rapidly, because a great deal of it is inside work, in small pieces, and the derrick now in use ought not to be moved until that Avork is completed. Much more shoAV could have been made by moving the derrick now up, and by commencing the erection of the upper frame-AVork at once; but that course would not ha\ r ebeen economical; in fact, it would have retarded the completion of the work. There appears, therefore, to have been no necessity for hurrying the detailed drawings of the upper part of the dome, and I do not think their completion Avould have expedited the completion of the work. In addition to the Avork already mentioned, a cylindrical brick-wall, twenty-seven feet high, and about two and a half feet thick, and ninety-four feet in internal diameter has been built above the old rotunda Avails, which is connected Avith the outer stone-wall, above the roof. Upon this wall the new dome is to rest. I find, upon consultation of the files of this office, that the old dome was taken down, and the derrick and temporary roof erected between March 3, the date of the first appropriation, and October 3, 1855. The brick-wall below the iron brackets was finished on April 14, 1856, and the first bracket Avas placed on March 18, 1857. It folloAVs, therefore, that in less than in three yeai's, nearly nineteen hundred tons of iron have been cast, transported, hoisted, and set in place in the dome. This is an average of more than six hundred tons per annum, or more than two tons for each working day; and when it is remembered that, in addition to the labor of hoisting, nearly every piece of iron required carefully fitting, before it could be placed, I think it will be acknowledged that the progress of the dome has not been sIoav. The original design laid before the committees of Congress was altered, as appears in the papers accompanying a report of the Secretary of War, dated March 5, 1856; Avhich report is published in House of Representatives, 34th Congress, 1st session, Mis. Doc. No. 65. The reasons for the change appear to have been considered good by Congress, as an appropriation of $100,000 for the continuance of the work was made August 18, 1856, and another of $500,000, March 3, 1857. The Dome. 1015 Another change has been made by the architect, during the past year, which, in his opinion, became necessary, because the figure of freedom and its pedestal, designed by Crawford, for the top of the dome, are larger in all respects than the figure and pedestal, which were drawn upon the altered design referred to above. On this account he altered the outlines of the lantern, and the curve of the cupola, and this alteration has brought the dome nearly back to the original design. The coin- cidence would have been more striking were it not that the diameter of the lower part (that now erected) had been increased in the first altered design, as explained in the document quoted above. The designs for the interior of the upper part of the dome have also been changed, and photographic copies of the drawings showing this interior finish in the first and second altered drawings are transmitted with this. These alterations have been approved by the War Department. I cannot find that the cost of the work, nor the time of its completion has been affected by these changes. I transmit with this a sketch showing the designs, as compared with each other, drawn to the same scale, and the committee can judge of the importance of the changes. I also transmit photographic copies of the drawings of the dome, as originally pre- sented to the committees of Congress, of that referred to in the congressional docu- ment quoted above, and of that altered to suit the Crawford statue; also vertical sections showing the interior finish previously referred to. The dome can be brought back to the form and dimensions of the first altered design, without other loss to the United States than that arising from the rejection of the drawings, which have been made at considerable expense, and in great detail. The completion of the dome would Vie retarded by the change just as long a time as will be required to make the detailed drawings. In any event a modification of that part of the design, which is intended for what is technically termed the lantern, would necessarily be made on account of the size of the Crawford statue. My own opinion is that it will be conducive to the interests of the United States to carry out the design last made; and I base my opinion upon the fact that this design is no more expensive than either of the others — that it is suitable in dimensions to the statue which is to surmount the finished dome, and that the work will be sooner finished by its prosecution. The correspondence in relation to the contracts, bargains, proposals, and bids is appended to this report, and is marked B. The statement of the payments made from the appropriations is also made, and is in the same appendix. From this statement it appears that the sum of $.301 , 860 41 has been expended, and the results have been the demolition of the old dome; the erection of the tem- porary roof; the procural of the necessary hoisting apparatus, scaffolding, tools, &c. ; the erection of a cylindrical brick 'wall twenty-eight feet high, about two and a half, feet thick, and ninety-four feet in internal diameter, and the purchase, erection, and painting of nineteen hundred tons of iron. The balance on hand and in the treasury is $398,145 59, and there remains the sum of $245,000 to be appropriated to fill the estimate made for the completion of the work. This gives the sum of $643,145 59, which may be considered available to complete the work within the original estimate. With this amount about eighteen hundred tons of iron are to be purchased, fitted, and erected upon the dome. The necessary additional hoisting apparatus and scaf- folding are to be procured, erected, and taken down after the completion of the work, and the whole dome is to tie thoroughly painted. The bronze statue is to be cast and erected. The temporary roof which now covers the rotunda is to be taken down, and another is to be erected sixty feet higher. This must be taken down also after the completion of the work. 1016 Documentary History of the Capitol. It will be seen that the iron hereafter to be furnished will cost erected, in- cluding the furnishing, erection, and removal of the hoisting apparatus, and the removal of the temporary roof, seven cents per pound, amount- ing to $282,240; or, as the weight may be somewhat greater than the calculated weight, it will be safe to say $300, 000 The estimate for the painting is 20, 000 The bronze statue, masonry, plastering, pay of architect, clerks and draughtsmen, superintendence, office rent, and freight for three years . . 75, 000 Outstanding bills, and amount necessary to pay for Avork already ordered . 100, 000 Alteration of roof of old building to accommodate the lowest section of the dome, and making new roof where necessary 50, 000 545, 000 Ten per cent, for unforeseen contingencies 54, 500 Total cost of completion of dome 599, 500 Amount on hand 398,141 Amount to be appropriated 201, 355 This would make the cost of the dome completed $901,355 — the amount of the original estimate being $945,000. I have no doubt that the estimate above given will more than cover the expense of the work. The original estimate Avas based upon the prices paid for various iron work in the Capitol extension, or an average of 6.3 cents per pound. The prices hitherto paid for the dome iron work have varied from 9 to 2\ cents per pound, making the aver- age 5.8 cents per pound. The cost of scaffolding, hositing apparatus, painting, and contingent expenses is not included. The price to be paid for the remainder of the iron, including scaffolding and hoisting, is seven cents per pound; and, supposing that as much iron will be bought hereafter as has already been purchased, (which supposition is not far from the truth,) the average price of the whole of the iron work will be 6.4 cents per pound, differing very little from the original estimate. In this calculation the painting, bronze statue, and contingent expenses, consisting of pay of architect, clerks, draughtsmen, receiver, superintendence, and office rent, have not been included. * * * W. B. Franklin, Captain of Topographical Engineers, In charge of Capitol Extension and New Dome of Capitol. Hon. J. D. Bright, Chairman Com. on Public Buildings and Grounds, U. 8. Senate. A. Investigation of the stability of the sustaining walls of the new dome of the United States capitol. Pounds. Weight of iron work already erected 4, 261, 421 Weight of iron work to be erected above that now on the dome 2, 993, 744 Weight of iron work to be erected below that now on the dome 344, 600 Total weight of iron work of the whole dome 7, 599, 765 Ten per cent, to cover all differences between calculated and actual weights 759, 976 Weight of masonry above the smallest section of the sustaining wall 5, 214, 000 Total weight to be supported at the smallest section of the sustaining walls 13, 573, 741 The Dome. 1017 Area of smallest section of the sustaining wall : 5(V.5X2X3.1416X4 / =1269.2 square feet. Therefore, the pressure on the square foot at the smallest section of the sustaining wall is 13,573,741 lbs. divided by 1269.2, or 10,691 lbs. The masonry, of which this smallest section is a part, is faced with Aquia creek cut sandstone, and backed by a brick wall laid in hydraulic lime mortar. It is strongly tied by wrought iron bands, and is a very excellent piece of work. It extends about four feet below the smallest section above-mentioned, and at that point rests upon the old walls of the rotunda. The additional weight due to its extension below the smallest section is 816,375 lbs., which, added to 13,573,741 lbs., gives 14,390,116 lbs. as the pressure which the new dome will exert upon the wall of the rotunda after its completion. The area of the smallest section of this wall is 311 X 5' = 1,555 square feet. There fore the pressure per square foot exerted by the new dome upon the smallest sec- tion of the old walls will be 14,390,116 lbs. divided by 1,555, or 9,254 lbs. This is at the level of the top of the balustrade of the main building. Below this level the horizontal section of the walls which sustain the dome is rectangular, and the circle of the rotunda and four small circles, each ten feet in diameter, have been taken from the area of the rectangle. Other walls connect with the sustaining walls, and increase their strength materially. They are not, however, taken into consideration. At the level of the top of the balustrade of the main building this rectangle meas- ures 107 feet by 102 feet, and the rotunda is 98 feet in diameter. At the floor of the principal story it measures 108 feet by 101 feet, and the rotunda is 97 feet in diameter. At the basement story it measures 105 feet by 101 feet, and the rotunda is 86 feet in diameter; and at the level of the cellar floor the foundation walls are 102 feet by 98 feet, the rotunda being 84 feet in diameter. Below this point the walls spread out, and the pressure per square foot is diminished. The following table shows the pressure per square foot which will be exerted upon the sustaining 'walls by the new dome, at the various levels indicated, giving the area of the sustaining walls, and the weights to be sustained at those levels: Area of sus- taining walls. Total weight. Pressure per square foot. Square feet. 3,924 3,322 3, 204 1, 555 1,269 Pounds. 51, 292, 253 44, 770, 853 36, 694, 928 14,390, 116 13,573,741 Pounds. 13, 071 13, 477 11,453 8,765 10, 691 Principal storv floor Level of top of balustrade of main building, being the top of the walls common to the new and old domes Smallest section of new wall below new dome Pounds. In the old dome the weight of masonry above the smallest section was 9, 337, 286 Weight of metal work 29, 934 Weight of timber, plastering, railing, glass, and iron clamps 2,486,364 Total weight of old dome above smallest section of sustaining walls. . 11, 853, 584 Therefore the vertical pressure per square foot exerted by the old dome upon the smallest section of the old walls was 11,853,584 lbs. divided by 1,555, or 7,623 lbs. 1018 Documentary History of the Capitol, The following table shows the pressure per square foot which was exerted upon the sustaining walls by the old dome, at the various levels indicated, giving the area of the sustaining walls, and the weights to be sustained at those levels: Area of sus- taining walls. Total weight. Pressure per square foot. Foundation or cellar Square feet. 3, 924 3, 322 3,204 1,555 Pounds. 48, 756, 221 42,234, 821 34, 158, 896 11, 853, 584 Pounds. 12, 425 12,713 10, 661 7,623 Basement floor Principal story floor Level of top of balustrade of main building, being top of the walls common to the new and old domes Tire following table gives a comparison of the pressure exerted upon the sustaining walls by both domes: Pounds per square foot. New dome. Old dome. Difference. 13,071 13,477 11,453 9,254 12, 425 12, 713 10, 661 7,623 646 764 792 1,631 Level of top of balustrade of main building, being top of walls common to the new and old domes The substitution of the new dome for the old one will, therefore, increase, the pressure upon the foundation walls, at the level of the cellar floor, from 48,756,221 pounds to 51,292,253 pounds; an increase of 646 pounds per square foot, or about 5.2 per cent. At the highest point of the walls common to both domes, the pressure .per square foot is increased 1,631 pounds, an increase of about twenty-one per cent. The foundation walls are formed of large bluestone, laid in lime mortar. I have examined them, and do not find any crack or sign of settlement. They are excellent walls. The basement walls are of Aquia Creek cut sandstone. The principal story walls, or the walls of the rotunda, as high as the interior cornice, are faced on the inside with Aquia Creek sandstone, and are backed with brick. There are some cracks in the interior facing, but they are old, and, in my opinion, have no effect upon the stability of the work. Above the roof of the main building, the exterior of the dome wall is faced with cut Aquia Creek sandstone, backed with brick. This brick backing has been built to support the new dome, as has been previously stated. It is an excellent wall. The materials mentioned above have the following crushing weights to the square foot, viz: Aquia creek sandstone a Brick « Brick and mortar, two years old a Brick (Morin’s experiments) Maximum. 755, 280 lbs. 1, 849, 248 lbs. 339, 120 lbs. 307, 277 lbs. Minimum. 360, 000 lbs. 192, 000 lbs. 122,911 lbs. Now, the greatest pressure which will be exerted by the new dome is at the base- ment, or crypt floor, where it will be 13,477 pounds per square foot. The stone which is to bear this weight requires a pressure of 755,280 pounds per square foot to crush it, or about fifty-six times the weight of the dome. a Taken from a report of Captain Meigs, dated March 8, 1856. The Aquia creek sandstone crushing weight was determined by Professor Walter Ii. Johnston, in 1852; that for brick by the Capitol exten- sion commission on building materials in 1856; and that for brick and mortar by Captain Meigs in 1856. The Dome. 1019 The pressure which will be exerted by the new dome upon the walls having the smallest section is 10,691 pounds per square foot. This, under the most unfavorable circumstances, is less than one-eleventh of the crushing force of the materials of which the walls are composed. As it has become an axiom with engineers that one-tenth of the crushing load can be safely borne by the walls of the edifice, it follows that the walls will be entirely safe after the erection of the new dome. Below are given the pressures per square foot upon the foundations of the Girard College, Philadelphia, and sundry European domes, compared with the pressure upon the foundations of the dome on the Capitol, as stated above. These quantities are taken from the report already quoted: Girard College, pounds per square foot 13, 440 St. Peter’s, Rome, pounds per square foot 33, 330 St. Paul’s, London, pounds per square foot 39, 450 St. Genevieve, Paris, pounds per square foot 60, 000 Toussaint, Angers, pounds per square foot 90, 000 New dome on the U. S. Capitol, pounds per square foot 13, 477 W. B. Franklin, Captain Topographical Engineers in Charge of New Dome. February 24, 1860. Appendix B. Correspondence in relation to the contracts, bargains, p>roposals, and bids, with statement of payments on account of the new dome of the Capitol. July 18, 1855. Gentlemen: There are thirty-six columns to be cast for the dome of the Capitol. They will be two feet eight and one half inches diameter and twenty-seven feet long, deeply fluted Corinthian columns; the shafts cast in one piece, the caps and bases to slip over the shafts; the foliage to be attached to the bell by screws or rivets. I shall be glad to receive offers from you for them delivered in Washington. Respectfully, your obedient servant, Merrick & Sons, Philadelphia. M. C. Meigs, Captain of Engineers in Charge. The following named parties were also invited to submit proposals for these columns: * * * The following is an abstract of the offers received: * * * [From the annual report of Capt. W. B. Franklin, in charge of construction of the New Dome, Nov. 6, 1860. (36 — 2, Senate Ex. Doc. No. 1, v. 2, p. 178.)] Office of New Dome of Capitol, Washington, November 6, 1860. Sir: I have the honor to make the following report upon the operations of the past year in the construction of the new dome. When I took charge of the work on November 1, 1859, I found that all of the work from the base of the colonnade to the balustrade above the cornice was under contract. This work has all been finished. The base of the dome and the part above the colonnade have been placed under contract during the past year, and at this time the whole of the base is finished, except a small part at the northeast corner, which has been left off to permit the proper manipulation of the hoisting apparatus. 1020 Documentary History of the Capitol. The fitting of the foundation of the base to the walls of the old building was a tedious and expensive work. The appearance of the dome has been much improved by the completion of the base. The iron work constituting the thirty feet in height next above the colonnade has been nearly all placed. A contract has been entered into, by direction of the department, by which the base of the dome and all that part of it above the colonnade are to be erected at a fixed price of seven cents per pound. It is estimated that under this contract the cupola will be erected by the 1st of July next. The lantern of the dome, and the statue of freedom which will surmount it, will easily be erected in the whole of 1861. The casting in bronze of Crawford’s colossal statue of freedom was commenced in June last, and has progressed well. It is now about one-half finished, and the style of the work is entirely satisfactory. As soon as it is completed it will be erected on some prominent spot in the vicinity of the Capitol for exhibition until the dome is ready for its reception. On the pay-rolls of the United States during the past year there have been made 18,351 days, costing $41,978 93; 6,809 days havebeen made by the contractors, and 1,217,360 pounds of iron have been received. The services of the architect have been paid for from this appropriation for two years and eleven months at $4,500 per annum, making $13,125. Expense connected with Statue of Freedom. Four months’ service of caster and rent of foundery $1, 600 00 812 days’ labor on pay-rolls 1, 333 24 15,0921 pounds copper 3,320 35 1,525 pounds tin • 480 37 150 barrels plaster 262 50 Hauling, coal, lumber, tank, &c 1,000 00 Total 7,996 46 Cash account. Amount available September 30, 1859 $431, 385 21 Expended to September 30, 1860 144, 321 77 Amount available October 1, 1860 287, 063 44 The amount which will be available on July 1, 1861, will probably suffice to carry on the work during the next fiscal year. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. B. Franklin, Captain of Topographical Engineers in Charge. Hon. John B. Floyd, Secretary of War. [From the annual report of Capt. M. C. Meigs, in charge of construction of the New Dome, Nov. 26, 1861. (37 — 2, Senate Ex. Doc. No. 1, v. 2, p. 77.)] The expenditure since I resumed charge of the works has been: * * * For new Dome, $32,252.98. * * * xhe dome has made considerable progress; the temporary roof which covers the rotunda has been raised above the windows of the peristyle, and the rotunda is now well lighted. The Dome. 1021 A contract was made for this work under the direction of Secretary Floyd, which appears to have been made illegally. The work was done, however, and the matter having been referred to Captain Franklin, the late superintendent, and myself, a settlement was recommended and adopted on terms which appeared to be the most equitable possible under the circumstances. At the same time the contractor was directed to cease work, and though he has preferred to employ a small force in put- ting up some of the iron which he had already prepared, he was notified that, if he chose to do this, it must be done at his own expense and risk, and subject to any order that may hereafter be taken by the Government in the case. The bronze statue of Freedom is still in progress. * * * The entire expendi- ture during the year ending 30th September, 1861, * * * has been on account of the new dome, $144,597.97. * * * NEW DOME. Amount available October 1, 1360 $287,063 44 Appropriated since 000,000 00 Total 287, 063 44 Expended to September 30, 1861 144, 597 97 Available October 1, 1861 * * * 142,465 47 The total quantity of castings received during the year ending 30th September, 1861, is 2,235,4811 pounds. The total quantity put up in its place for the same period is about 1, 795, 945 pounds. The following table shows in detail the cost of the figure of Freedom to 30th Sep- tember, 1861: Labor, to May 15, 1861 Hauling, to May 15, 1861 Mills, for services and rent of fo'undery Berry, for vat Wetmore, for crucibles Phelps, Dodge & Co., for tin Revier Copper Company, for copper Morgan & Rhinehart, for plaster John McClellan, for castings (iron) Old iron Old scrap copper Coal, wood, nails, oil, alcohol, buckets, brooms, sand, lumber, &c., &c $4, 812 36 141 07 4, 800 00 30 00 78 75 570 00 3,328 70 525 00 302 95 20 00 500 00 500 00 15,608 83 Paid on account of contract for completion 1, 200 00 16, 808 83 [From the report of Thomas U. Walter, architect in charge of the construction of the New Dome, May 8, 1862. (37 — 2, Senate Mis. Doc. No. 97, p. 5.)] THE NEW DOME. When this work was suspended in May last, the contractors decided to go on at their own risk, and put up the castings which were then on the ground, the aggre- gate weight of which was above 1,300,000 pounds. They have, accordingly, been constantly employed since that time, and are still at work. The weight of castings they have put up in this interim is about one million of pounds, leaving about 300,000 pounds now on the ground. 1022 Documentary History of the Capitol. At the date of the suspension of the work there were three sections in height of the main ribs in place, and the outside finish of the structure was carried up to the top of the entablature over the pilasters. Since that time four more sections of the main ribs have been set, leaving but one more section to be put up to reach the upper balustrade or base of the lantern. The large consoles, with the cornice over them, have been set; also, the heavy moulding at the base of the cupola; a considerable portion of the covering, and two sections of the outer ribs which form the curve. The top of the iron work, as far as it has now progressed, is 207 feet above the floor of the basement story of the Capitol, and an additional elevation of 97 feet is yet required to reach the top of the crowning statue. The whole amount appropriated by Congress for the dome, up to the present time, is $700, 000 00 The expenditures, from the commencement of the work to May 1, 1862, amount to 561, 140 79 Leaving a balance of appropriation available at this date, of 138, 859 21 Which will be sufficient to carry on the work during the next fiscal year. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Tho. U. Walter, Architect of the United Stales Capitol Extension, &c. Hon. Caleb B. Smith, Secretary of the Interior. [Annual report of Thomas 0. Walter, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1862. (37 — 3, House Ex. Doc. No. 35, p. 9. ) ] THE NEW DOME. The progress of this work during the past year has been constant and satisfactory. At the time of the suspension of the work in May, 1861, the contractors had above 1,300,000 pounds of iron castings on the ground, prepared to be put in place; and although they were directed to suspend operations, and were notified that if they proceeded they would do it at their own expense and risk, they concluded to go on, at least with the putting up of the material on the ground, trusting for the future to the justice of the Government. This was alike creditable to their perseverance and to their patriotism. They have thus prevented the sound of the hammer from being stopped on the national Capitol a single moment during all our civil troubles. The principal frame of the structure is now completed, the ribs of the cupola have been put, in place, and the workmen are engaged in setting the plates which consti- tute the outer covering, all of which will be finished before the close of the present year. This will leave nothing to be done to complete the exterior but the construc- tion of the tholus, or lantern, and the placing of the ornaments on the upper windows, and around the spring of the cupola. These ornaments are now being cast. The most of the castings for the inner dome, or ceiling of the rotunda, are made and ready for shipment. As soon as they arrive an additional gang of workmen will .be forwarded from the foundery to commence putting them in place. The present height of the iron work above the basement floor of the Capitol is 215 feet, and the height of the portion yet to be constructed, including the crowning statue, is 71 feet 3 inches. OUTWARD TO SUPPORT COLONNADE OF NEW DOME. The Dome. 1023 The amount of iron which has been delivered at the work from September 30, 1861, to October 31, 1862, is 207,017 pounds; and during the same period about 1,185,000 pounds have been put up. The total quantity of iron received from the beginning of the work to October 31, 1862, is 7,536,907 pounds, and it will require about 767,500 pounds more to complete it. The statue of Freedom, which is intended as the crowning feature of the dome, is completed, and removed to the grounds east of the Capitol, where it has been placed on a temporary pedestal, in order that the public may have an opportunity to exam- ine it before it is raised to its destined position. This statue is 19 feet 6 inches in height, and weighs 14,985 pounds. It is composed entirely of bronze and is con- structed in five sections, the weight of the heaviest of which is 4,740 pounds. When it is put in its place, the screw bolts, which now disfigure it, will be removed, and the entire statue will be washed with an acid which will cause a slight oxydation, and thus produce a rich and uniform bronze tint which will never change. There have been expended on account of this statue the sum of $23,796 82, the details of which are as follows: Paid T. Crawford for plaster model $3, 000 00 Paid Clark Mills for services, rent of foundery, and labor 9, 800 00 Paid for' labor to May 15, 1861 4, 812 36 Paid for hauling 141 07 Paid Phelps, Dodge & Co. for tin 570 00 Paid the Revier Copper Company for copper 3, 328 70 Paid Morgan & Rinehart for plaster 525 00 Paid John McClelland for iron castings 302 95 Paid for old scrap copper 500 00 Paid for coal, wood, nails, oil, alcohol, sand, buckets, brushes, lumber, crucibles, etc 628 75 Paid for removing the statue from the foundry, and putting it up upon the grounds east of the Capitol 187 99 Making the total cost to this date 23, 796 82 The whole amount appropriated by Congress for the dome, up to the present time, is 700,000 00 The expenditures from the commencement of the work to October 31, 1862, amounts to 608, 008 28 Leaving a balance of appropriation available at the above date of. 91, 991 72 All of which will be expended during the present fiscal year. An appropriation will be required for the next fiscal year of $200,000, which will complete the work. The original estimate was $945, 000. « I find, however, that by careful study in the details of the design, I have been able greatly to reduce the weight of the structure, and thus to bring the entire cost, including the expensive crowning statue, to about $900, 000. I have the honor to be, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant, Tho. U. Walter, Architect United States Capitol Extension, etc. Hon. Caleb B. Smith, Secretary of the Interior. « This estimate will be found in Miscellaneous Document No. 65, House of Representatives, 34th Congress, 1st session, page 4. 1024 Documentary History of the Capitol. [From the annual report of Caleb B. Smith, Secretary of the Interior. Nov. 29, 1862. (37—3, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, v. 2, p. 23.)] NEW DOME. The work on the new iron dome has progressed with great rapidity. The principal frame of the structure is now completed; the ribs of the cupola have been put in place, and the workmen are engaged in setting the plates which constitute the outer covering, all of which will be finished before the close of the year. This will leave nothing to be done to complete the exterior but the construction of the tholus, or lantern, upon the top of which is to be placed the statue of Freedom, which is intended as the crowning feature of the dome, and the placing of the ornaments on the upper windows and around the spring of the cupola. The present height of the iron work above the basement floor of the Capitol is 215 feet, and the height of the portion yet to be constructed, including the crowning statue, is 71 feet 3 inches, making the entire elevation, when completed, 286 feet 3 inches. The original estimate of the cost of the dome was $945,000. The whole amount appropriated by Congress up to the present time, is $700,000. The expenditures, from the commencement of the work to the suspension, in May, 1861, were $561,140 79, and since the resumption of the work, under the supervision of this Department, to October 31, 1862, $56,867 49, making an aggregate of $618,008 28, leaving a balance of appropriation, at that date, of $81,991 72. It is estimated that an additional appropriation of $200,000 will be necessary for the completion of the work. This will make the aggregate cost $900,000, being $45,000 less than the original estimate. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the government for the year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and sixty-four, and for the year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty-three, and for other purposes,’’ approved Mar. 3, 1863. (Stats, at Large, v. 12, 718.)] For continuing the work on the new dome of the Capitol, two hundred thousand dollars. [From the annual report of Thomas U. Walter, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1863 (38 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 673.)] THE NEW DOME. Exterior . — Since the date of my last annual report the outside of the cupola or spherical portion of the dome has been completed; the exterior embellishments of the upper windows and the tile ornaments at the spring of the cupola have been fin- ished, and the entire construction of the exterior completed as high as the base of the tholus or lantern. The most of the frame work of the tholus has been put up, and it is now being prepared to receive the statue of Freedom, which will be put in place in a few days. Nothing now remains to complete the exterior but the shell or skin of the tholus, and the balustrade around the top of the cupola, the castings for which are all on the ground, and will be put in place before the close of the year. Interior . — The ribs to sustain the spherical ceiling of the interior have all been put up, and about one-fourth of the paneling has been set. The castings for the entire work are completed and delivered at the Capitol, with the exception of about fifty tons, which will be forwarded from the foundry in New York in a few days. The aggregate weight of the iron which has been put in place, since the date of my last annual report, amounts to 718,896 pounds. The Dome. 1025 The total quantity of iron received for the dome from the beginning of the work to October 31, 1863, amounts to 8,526,035 pounds, and the quantity which remains to be delivered amounts to about 100,000 pounds. Stairways . — The iron work which has been prepared for the stairways outside of the supporting walls of the dome amounts to 12,687 pounds, all of which is now on the ground and ready to be put up. These stairways are under cover of the base or podium of the dome, and lead from the attic story of the Capitol to the drum of the peristyle. When this part of the work shall have been completed, the ascent to the dome will be safe and commodious. The progress of the construction of the dome has been constant, and the character of the workmanship entirely satisfactory. It has not, however, advanced as rapidly as I desired, or expected, in consequence of the difficulties encountered by the con- tractors in obtaining suitable workmen. The vast amountof iron work required by the Government in the construction of war vessels, firearms, etc., has occupied the most of the skillful workmen of the country; and the added difficulty of finding men who can, under any circumstances, work at so great a height from the ground, has also tended to retard the progress of the work. These difficulties cannot be overcome; we are therefore compelled to proceed as rapidly as we are able with the present gang of workmen, most of whom have been with us from the beginning. The con- tractors could employ to advantage four times as many men as are now at work, but such workmen as could be trusted to manage heavy masses of iron at such fearful heights are not now to be obtained. It is expected that the entire exterior of the dome will be completed, with the force now engaged upon it, before the close of the present year, and it will require some rive or six months more to finish the construction of the interior. Lighting . — Arrangements are being made for lighting the interior at night by means of Gardiner’s electro-magnetic gas-lighting apparatus, the most of the materials for which have been delivered, and are ready to be put up as soon as the scaffolding can be removed. Painting . — The cartoons for the picture on the canopy over the eye of the inner dome are being prepared, and its execution will be commenced as soon as the iron work which is to receive it can be put in place. Cash account of the new dome. Amount available October 31, 1862 $91, 991 72 Appropriated March 3, 1863 200, 000 00 291,991 72 Amount expended from October 31, 1862, to October 31, 1863 180, 649 98 Leaving, on the 31st of October, 1863, an unexpended balance of appro- priation of 111,341 74 [From the annual report of J. P. Usher, Secretary of the Interior, Dee. 5, 1863. (38 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. XI.)] The colossal figure of “Freedom,” designed by Crawford and executed by Clark Mills, was, on the 2d instant, successfully raised to its elevated place on , the new dome, and forms a grand and appropriate crowning to the Capitol of the nation. H. Rep. 646 65 1026 Documentary History of the Capitol. [From the annual report of Thomas TT. Walter, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1864. (38—2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 693.)] THE NEW DOME. At the date of my last annual report preparations were being made for putting the Statue of Freedom in place on the top of the dome. This was accomplished without accident, on the second day of December last. The statue is 19 feet 6 inches in height, and weighs 14,985 pounds. It consists of five sections, the heaviest of which weighs 4,740 pounds. Four of these sections had been previously raised to their places, and firmly secured to the structure, leaving the fifth section, which embraces the head and shoulders, to constitute the crowning feature, the hoisting and adjust- ing of which was the occasion of the following special order of the War Department: Headquarters Department op Washington, Twenty-second Army Corps, December 1, 1863. Special Order No. 248.1 * * * 3. At 12 m., on the 2d instant, the Statue of Freedom which crowns the dome of the national Capi- tol will be inaugurated. In commemoration of the event, and as an expression due from this depart- ment, of respect for the material symbol of the principle upon which our government is based, it is ordered — First, At the moment at which a flag is displayed from the statue, a national salute of thirty-five guns will be fired from a field battery on Capitol hill. Second, The last gun from this salute will be answered by a similar salute from Fort Stanton, which will be followed in succession, from right to left, by salutes from Forts Davis, Mahan, Lincoln, Bun- ker Hill, Totten, De Eussy, Reno, Cameron, Corcoran, Albany, and Scott. 4. Brigadier General W. F. Barry will make the necessary arrangements for and superintend the firing from Capitol hill, Brigadier General G. A. De Russy that from the works south, and Lieutenant Colonel J. A. Hoskins that from those north of the Potomac. * * * By command of Major General Angur. Carroll H. Potter, A.A.G. Precisely at 12 m., on the aforesaid 2d day of December, 1863, the crowning fea- ture of the statue was started from the ground in fijont of the Capitol, by means of the steam hoisting apparatus which has been successfully used for the construction of the entire dome, and in twenty minutes it reached the height of three hundred feet, when it was moved to its place, and firmly attached to the remaining portion of the figure; as soon as it was properly adjusted, the American flag was unfurled over its head, and the national salute was fired, in accordance with the foregoing programme of Major General Augur. The effect was thrilling, and grateful to every loyal heart. The final completion of the work of the dome has been very much retarded by the want of suitable workmen. The construction is complicated and difficult, requir- ing great care and skill. The masses of iron to be handled are heavy, and the great height at which the work is executed increases the difficulty of maintaining the proper gangs of workmen. The work has, however, advanced steadily, and without accident, and but a few weeks more will be required to bring it to a final completion. The exterior is entirely finished, except a small portion of the base, which was omitted in the construction to give place to the steam-engine and hoisting apparatus; as soon as these can be dispensed with, they will be removed, and the void will be filled, the materials for this purpose being all fitted and made ready for their places. All the exterior scaffolding is removed, and the outside painting is finished. The interior ceiling is likewise completed, and its massy and elaborate finish cannot fail to impress the spectator, at least with a conception of the immense labor it has required to produce it. The fact should not be lost sight of that this ceiling, as well as the entire structure, inside and outside, is wholly composed of iron. The remaining work to be done consists of the construction of the iron stairways The Dome. 1027 leading from the attic story of the centre building to the drum of the peristyle, and the stairs to lead from the spring of the ceiling to the platform of the tholus or lan- tern. The materials for these stairways are all prepared; it will, therefore, require but a short time to construct them. The apparatus for lighting the dome with gas, and the interior painting, also remain to be completed. The aggregate weight of iron which has been put in place since the date of my last annual report is 781,271 pounds; and the total quantity which has been delivered for the dome from the beginning of the work to the present date amounts to 8,878,743 pounds. All the castings for the entire work are completed and delivered at the Capitol. Cash account of the neiv dome. Amount available October 31, 1863 $111, 341 74 Amount expended from October 31, 1863, to October 31, 1864 53, 381 27 Leaving, on the 31st of October, 1864, an unexpended balance of 57, 960 47 By an act of Congress approved March 3, 1863, an appropriation of $200,000 was made for 1 ‘continuing the work on the new dome of the Capitol. ’ ’ This is the last appropriation that was made for the dome; it was founded upon an estimate which accompanied my annual report under date of October 31, 1862, in which I took occa- sion to remark that this sum would complete the work. Had the prices of labor and materials remained the same as they were at that time, which it should be observed was two years ago, the whole would have been completed Avithin the amount speci- fied. But the great change which has since taken place in the cost of everything pertaining to building Avill render the balance on hand inadequate to the entire com- pletion of the work. I therefore respectfully suggest that an additional appropria- tion be made of $50,000. Although the progress of neither the Capitol extension nor the new dome has been as rapid as I desired, or had reason to expect at the commencement of the sea- son, 1 am, nevertheless, of the opinion that the amount of work which has been done, and the quantity of materials which haA r e been furnished since my last annual report, form a very creditable aggregate, in A T iew of the difficulties which must unavoidably be encountered in all mechanical pursuits at a time when the country is involved in Avar. Notwithstanding some of the contractors have lost heavily by the advance of wages and the increase in the prices of materials, a spirit of patriotism has led them steadily on, regardless of pecuniary sacrifice, and I doubt not that they have done all in their power to fulfil our requirements. [From the annual report of EcUvard Clark. Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1865. (39 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 811.) ] THE NEW DOME. That portion of the base omitted to give place for the steam-engine and hoisting apparatus has been filled in. The stairways leading from the attic story of the centre building to the platform of the lantern haA r e been put in place, rendering access to that elevated position of the dome easy and safe. The picture over the eye of the dome is all painted in, but the artist is umvilling to have the scaffolding removed until the plastering is thoroughly dry, and the pic- ture toned. As it will be at times vieived by gas-light, he wishes to have the oppor- tunity of trying it by this light before dismissing it from his hands. The arrangements for lighting the dome by means of Gardiner’s electro-magnetic apparatus is now in progress, and w'ill probably be finished early in the session. Since the 31st of October last, 30,457pounds of iron for the work of the dome have been received, which together Avith that heretofore received for this work make the entire weight of the iron used in the dome 8,909,200 pounds. An appropriation of $50,000 will be needed to pay bills already due, and for the completion of the Avork. 1028 Documentary History of the Capitol. [From the annual report of James Harlan, Secretary of the Interior, Dec. 4, 1865. (39—1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. xvi.)] The arrangements for lighting the new dome, by Gardner’s electro-magnetic appa- ratus, are in progress. A further appropriation is necessary for the completion of the dome, which is now nearly finished, and to discharge existing liabilities for work already done upon it. [From the “Act making additional appropriations, and to supply the deficiencies in the appropria- tions for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty-six, and for other purposes,” approved April 7, 1866. (Stats, at Large, v. 14, p. 19.)] For completing the dome of the Capitol, fifty thousand dollars. [From the annual report of O. H. Browning, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 19, 1866. (39 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 13.)] The apparatus for lighting, by means of galvanic electricity, the one thousand and eighty -three gas-burners of the dome, has proved a complete success. They can now be lighted in a few minutes. An interesting paper on this subject has been prepared, at the request of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, by three electricians of repu- tation, and is annexed to his annual report. The sum of $48,481 79 was expended on the dome during the year ending October 31, 1866, at which date there was on hand a balance of $1,539 59. An appropriation of $15,000 will be required to com- plete this work. The belt between the second and third cornices of the rotunda should be ornamented by a series of national pictures, or in some other appropriate manner; and designs for the purpose will be invited from eminent artists, if Congress confer the requisite authority. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and sixty-eight, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 2, 1867. (Stats, at Large, v. 14, p. 461.)] For the dome of the Capitol, fifteen thousand dollars. t [House proceedings of Feb. 27, 1868. (Congressional Globe, 40 — 2, p. 1481.)] The House, as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1869 — • Mr. Dodge. I move to strike out lines two hundred and fifty-six and two hundred and fifty-seven, which are: For continuing the work on the new dome of the Capitol, $5,000. Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. I hope that will be agreed to. Let it go to Des Moines. [Laughter.] Mr. Dodge. That is the place I propose to put it. Mr. Price. It is a good place for it to go to. Mr. Blaine. I merely desire to say that I think these appropriations for the Capitol ought not to be stricken out. If the gentleman from New York [Mr. Selye], who is a practical man, will go down to the steam marble works here he will see where the $100,000 are to be swallowed up, and whether we put the appropriation in this bill or not it has got to come, or the Capitol will remain unfinished. A e may as well look the fact in the face that this Capitol is a vastly expensive building, and somebody has got to pay the bills. If you can find anybody besides Congress who will do it I hope you will do so. H. Rep. 646 — 58-2. VIEW OF DOME AND CENTRAL EAST PORTICO, 1903. The Dome. 1029 Mr. Wilson, of Iowa. Will the gentleman state what work on the Dome is to be continued? Work on the Dome! I should like to know from the Committee on Appropriations what work on the Dome is uncompleted? My understanding is that the Dome is already completed; and the next paragraph of the bill is: For the annual repairs, such as painting, glazing, keeping roofs in order, also water pipes, pave- ments, and approaches to public buildings, $15,000. Now, is this for the commencement of the renovation of the inside of the Dome that I have heard talked about, which is to result in taking out the entire lower por- tion of the inside of the Dome and engaging in an improvement of the plan of the Dome which will cost us some two or three hundred thousand dollars before we are through? Is that the scheme? Mr. Blaine. No; it has nothing to do with that. Mr. Wilson, of Iowa. Well, what is it for? Mr. Blaine. If the gentleman will go up to the Dome, which is rather a tedious operation, he will find that the work is not yet completed according to the design. Has the gentleman been there this session? Mr. Wilson, of Iowa. Not this session. Mr. Blaine. Then the gentleman ought not to have asked his question with such an air of confidence. Mr. Wilson, of Iowa. I only asked it to get information from the Committee on Appropriations, and I assert that the gentleman has given us no information. Mr. Blaine. We got our information from the architect of the Capitol extension, one of the most reliable, trustworthy, and economical officers that the Government has anywhere, and if we cannot take his estimates we cannot take anybody’s. I am not a practical architect and I do not know where the money is to be expended. I only know that Mr. Clark, the architect of the Capitol extension, deemsthese appro- priations absolutely essential. Of course, it is of no more interest to me than to any one else Mr. Wilson, of Iowa. I presume from what the gentleman says that he has not been to the top of the Dome. Mr. Blaine. No, not at all, and I do not propose to go.. Mr. Van Wyck. I made that perilous voyage up the Dome a few days since and I do not remember seeing anything unfinished there. Mr. Blaine. Probably the gentleman had a swimming in his head, he got up so high, so that he could not tell what was around him. Mr. Van Wyck. If we continue to appropriate tens and hundreds of thousands of dollars in this way, our heads will swim more by and by. The question was upon the motion of Mr. Dodge, to strike out “for continuing the work on the new Dome of the Capitol, $5,000.” The motion to strike out was agreed to. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the year end- ing June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and sixty-nine, and for other purposes,” approved July 20, 1868. (Stats, at Large, v. 15, p. 115.)] For the repairing and finishing the work on the new Dome of the Capitol, five thousand dollars. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and seventy, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1869. (Stats, at Large, v. 15, p. 306.)] For finishing and repairing the work on the new Dome of the Capitol, five thou- sand dollars. 1030 Documentary History of the CajpitoL [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and seventy-one, and for other purposes,” approved July 15, 1870. (Stats, at Large, v. 16, p. 302.)] For finishing and repairing the work on the new Dome of the Capitol, four thou- , sand dollars. [“An act for the relief of Janes, Fowler, Kirtland and Company, ” approved Feb. 9, 1871. (Stats. at Large, v. 16, p. 681.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the Secretary of the Treasury be, and he is hereby, authorized and directed to pay to Janes, Fowler, Kirtland and Company, of New York, contractors, for building the Dome of the Capitol at Washington, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, the sum of sixty thousand dollars in full satisfaction of all claim for losses or damages arising from the action of the Government in stopping, ordering, and directing the construction of said work. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and seventy-two, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1871. (Stats, at Large, v. 16, p. 501. )] For finishing and repairing the work on the new Dome of the Capitol, five thou- sand dollars. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and seventy-three, and for other purposes,” approved June 10, 1872. (Stats, at Large, v. 17, p. 361.)] For finishing and repairing the work on the new Dome of the Capitol, four thou- sand dollars. [Senate proceedings of June 30, 1886: Congressional Record, 49 — 1, p. 6307.] Mr. Ingalls introduced a bill (S. 2784) to provide for gilding the statue of Free- dom on the Dome of the Capitol; which was read twice by its title, and referred to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. [Senate proceedings of July 24, 1886: Congressional Record, 49 — 1, p. 7471.] The Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1887 — Mr. Mahone. On page 59 I move to insert after line 1436: For gilding in gold the statute of Freedom on the Dome of the Capitol, including base, and the scaffold, to be done under the supervision and direction of the Architect of the Capitol, $5,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary. Mr. Allison. If I can I reserve the point of order on that amendment. Mr. Mahone. The amendment has been recommended by the Committee on Pub- lic Buildings and Grounds, and has been referred to the Committee on Appropria- tions. I believe it is in order. Mr. Allison. It is for gilding in gold. If it was silver I might have been disposed to report it, but I do not like this discrimination. [Laughter.] The Dome. 1031 Mr. Mahone. You are not much of a silver man to-night. [Laughter.] The necessity of this is manifest. We are advised that this statue is corroding and that this work is necessary for its proper preservation. We all must admit that it is very necessary, for its appropriate relations to the Capitol. I hope it will be adopted. Mr. Allison. Is the amendment in order? The President pro tempore. The Chair sees no point of order that" can be raised against it. Mr. Allison. I believe the Senator stated that it was reported by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds and referred to the Committee on Appropriations. The President pro tempore. That makes it in order. The question is on the amendment of the Senator from Virginia. The amendment was rejected. V. THE GROUNDS. [House proceedings of Dec. 13, 1815: Annals of Congress, 14 — 1, p. 385.1 On motion of Mr. Tucker, the Committee for the District of Columbia were instructed to inquire into the expediency of providing, by law, for the enclosure and improvement of the public square, near the Capitol, in the said District. [House proceedings of Apr. 11, 1816: Annals of Congress, 14 — 1, p. 1360.] The House went into Committee of the Whole, on the bill making an appropria- tion for the improvement of the Capitol Square. The blank was filled, on motion of Mr. Tucker, with the sum of §30,000; and Mr. Clay made a few remarks in support of the object of the bill; when the Committee reported the bill and amendments to the House. The amendment and the bill itself were opposed by Messrs. Wright and Nelson, the former of whom moved to lay it on the table; and were advocated by Messrs. Tucker, Calhoun, Jackson, and Robertson. Mr. Wright’s motion was negatived; and he then demanded the yeas and nays on the question of engosssing the bill, which were refused by the House; and the bill was finallly ordered to be engrossed for a third reading to-morrow. [House proceedings of Apr. 12, 1816: Annals of Congress, 14 — 1, p. 1361.] The engrossed bill making an appropriation for graduating, enclosing, and improving the Capitol Square, was read the third time, and the question on its passage stated. This question gave rise to a short debate, in which Messrs. Smith of Maryland, Tucker, Reynolds, and Cuthbert, advocated the bill; and Messrs. Root, Hardin, Wright, Pickering, and Webster, opposed it. The last named gentleman moved to lay the bill on the table, which motion finally prevailed — ayes 65, noes 51; and the bill lies on the table accordingly. [House proceedings of Apr. 18, 1816: Annals of Congress, 14 — 1, p. 1405.] CAPITOL SQUARE. The House then resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole on the bill making an appropriation for graduating, enclosing, and improving the Capitol Square. Mr. Tucker moved an additional section to the bill, providing for the appointment of one Commissioner of the Public Buildings, instead of the three now in commission, and repealing the authority under which they were appointed; and vesting in him the application of the present appropriation, the superintendence of the improve- ments of the square, &c., with a salary of §2,000 per annum. 1032 ST. EAST 110 FiWIDE PLAT OF GROUNDS. *8oj The Grounds. 1083 After considerable debate, in which Mr. Nelson opposed the motion, and Messrs. Tucker, Clay, Webster, and Pickering advocated it, the amendment was adopted. Mr. Ingham moved to postpone the operation of the bill to the 1st of June, which was negatived; and Mr. Tucker proposed to increase the compensation of the Com- missioner to $2,500, which was also negatived. Mr. Wilde moved to incorporate a provision in the bill to authorize the President of the United States to cause to be sold certain lots, the property of the United States, within the City; the proceeds of the sale to constitute a fund, the interest of which to go to the support of a National University; which motion he supported at some length, urging the propriety of such policy as tended to foster and benefit the City, and censuring that hostile spirit, which, after Congress had determined to make it the permanent Seat of the Government, yet withheld any aid in its improve- ment, and left it to languish in a state which made it odious to those who were brought here on the public business, &e. Mr. Webster suggested the impropriety of connecting the proposition with the present bill, which it might endanger without being itself successful, &c. ; after which Mr. Wilde withdrew his motion. The Committee then rose and reported the bill and amendments to the House; and the latter were further amended, on motion of Mr. Tucker, by inserting a clause to prohibit the Commissioner, while serving as such, from holding or exercising any other office. Mr. Tucker then renewed his motion to increase the compensation of the Com- missioner, but without success. The amendments of the Committee, as amended, were concurred in by the House, and the question put on ordering the bill to a third reading; when Mr. Wright moved to strike out so much of the first section as provided the appropriation for improving the Capitol Square. The motion was opposed by Mr. Webster, and Mr. Wright replied, and asked for the yeas and nays on the question, which were refused by the House; after which the motion was rejected. The bill was then ordered to be engrossed for a third read- ing to-morrow. [House proceedings of Apr. 19, 1816: Annals of Congress, 11 — 1, p. 1406.] An engrossed bill making an appropriation for enclosing and improving the public square near the Capitol, was read the third time, and passed. [‘ ' An Act making an appropriation for enclosing and improving the public square near the capitol ; and to abolish the office of commissioners of the public buildings, and of superintendent, and for the appointment of one commissioner of the public buildings,” approved Apr. 29, 1816. (Stats, at Large, v. 3, 324.)] Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United Slates of America in Congress assembled, That a sum not exceeding thirty thousand dollars be, and the same is hereby, appropriated, to be applied under the direction of the President of the United States, to enclosing and improving the public square, east of the capitol, which sum shall be paid out of any money in the treasury, not otherwise appropriated. Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That so much of any act or acts as authorizes the appointment of three commissioners, for the superintendence of the public buildings, be, and the same is hereby, repealed; and in lieu of the said commissioners, there shall be appointed, by the President of the United States, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, one commissioner, ivho shall hold no other office under the authority of the United States, and who shall perform all the duties with which 1034 Documentary History of the Capitol. the said three commissioners were charged, and whose duty it shall also be to con- tract for, and superintend the enclosing and improvements of the public square, under the direction of the President of the United States. Sec. 3. And be it further enacted, That there shall be allowed to the said commis- sioner a salary of two thousand dollars, to be paid quarterly, out of any moneys in the treasury not otherwise appropriated. Sec. 4. And be it further enacted, That it shall be the duty of such persons as may have been appointed to superintend the repairing of the public buildings, to deliver up unto the commissioner who shall be appointed in virtue of this act, all plans, draughts, books, records, accounts, contracts, bonds, obligations, securities, and other evidence of debt in their possession, which belong to their offices. Sec. 5. And be it further enacted, That from and after the third day of March next, the office of superintendent, established by act of Congress of first May, one thou- sand eight hundred and two, shall cease, and thereafter the duties of said office shall be performed by the commissioner to be appointed by virtue of this act; and to whom the superintendent shall deliver all documents, securities, books, and papers, relating to said office; and from and after the third day of March next, the commis- sioner aforesaid shall be vested with all the powers and perform all the duties con- ferred upon the superintendent aforesaid. * * * [Letter of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, transmitting estimate for enclosing and improving the Capitol Square, communicated to the House Feb. 3, 1817. (14 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 64.)] Office of Commissioner of Public Buildings, Washington City, January 28th, 1817 . Sir: In order to carry into effect the act of Congress, entitled “ An act making an appropriation for enclosing and improving the public square near the Capitol,” the first consideration which presented itself was to digest a plan combining, with the requisite degrees of utility and taste, that durability which it was believed ought to be principally consulted in public works of this description. After determining the plan, the execution of it was, agreeably to the provision of the act, offered to the competition of the public, and a contract entered into with one of our enterprising citizens, under which great part of the work has been executed. It was, however, soon ascertained that the sum appropriated by the act above mentioned would fall considerably short of accomplishing the object contemplated; and this appears to have been occasioned, in part, by the original estimate not having been made to embrace the entire square. The paper marked A, contains an estimate of the sum which would be required for this purpose, amounting to forty-five thousand, six hun- dred and fifty-three dollars and eighty-five cents; leaving a deficiency of twenty-five thousand, six hundred and fifty-three dollars and eighty-five cents, to be supplied by future appropriation if the wisdom of Congress should so direct. I have the honor to be, with great respect, sir, your obedient servant, Samuel Lane, Commissioner Public Buildings. The honourable the Speaker of the House of Representatives U. S. * * * N. B. — If it should be determined to extend the exterior enclosure round the semi- circular area west of the Capitol, and omit the interior wall, then an additional sum of $12,000 will be required for the enclosure, and $1,000 to partially graduate and improve the surface of the ground. The Grounds. 1035 [House proceedings of Feb. 26, 1817: Annals of Congress, 14 — 2, pl033.] Mr. Condict, from the Committee on the Expenditures on the Public Buildings, to whom was referred the letter and estimate of the Commissioner in relation the public square, made a report as follows: The Committee on Public Buildings, to whom was referred the letter and estimate of the Commissioner in relation to the public square, report — that at the last session of Congress, the sum of $30,000 was appropriated for the purpose of improving the public square east of the Capitol, which sum has been expended, and is found to be insufficient for its completion, from causes stated in the letter of the Commissioner. The Committee are of opinion that it will better comport with the original design of the City, and be more satisfactory to the public, to omit the interior wall, in front of the Capitol, and extend the enclosure around the semi-circular area, west of the building. They respectfully submit the following resolution: Resolved, That it is expedient to appropriate the sum of — -dollars, to complete the improvement of the public square, and that the Commissioner be instructed, with the approbation, and under the direction of the President of the United States, to enclose the semi-circular area west of the Capitol. The report was ordered to lie on the table. [From the “Act making further provision for repairing the public buildings, and improving the public square,” approved Mar. 3, 1817. (Stats, at Large, v. 3, 389.)] Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That, for the purpose of completing the enclosure and improvement of the public square, near the Capitol, a sum not exceeding thirty- eight thousand six hundred and fifty-eight dollars be, and the same is hereby, appro- priated, to be applied under the same direction as aforesaid [of the President of the United States]. * * * Sec. 4. And be it further enacted, That the commissioner of the public buildings be authorized to extend the enclosure round the semi-circular area west of the Capitol. [From the “Act making further appropriations for continuing the work upon the centre building of the Capitol, and other public buildings,” approved Apr. 11, 1820. (Stats, at Large, v. 3,562.)] For graduating the ground round the Capitol, and supplying the deficiency in former appropriations for enclosing and improving the Capitol square, five thousand five hundred and ninety-one dollars. [House proceedings of Apr. 25, 1822: Annals of Congress, 17 — 1, p. 1656.] PUBLIC BUILDINGS. A message was received from the Senate, returning the bill which originated in the House of Representatives, making appropriations for the public buildings, with an amendment to add $1,250 to graduate and improve the public grounds around the Capitol. Mr Cocke moved that the House disagree to the amendment of the Senate. The motion was supported by Mr. Van Wyck and the mover, and opposed by Mr. Taylor. Mr. Blackledge remarked, that the sum which had been allowed to the person employed in that business, viz. , seven hundred and fifty dollars, would be probably sufficient. The Speaker suggested that it was necessary, by the rule, that this question be discussed in a Committee of the Whole before a decision on it; and, thereupon, The House went into a Committee of the Whole, on the aforesaid bill. v 1036 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Cocke renewed the motion which he had made in the House to disagree to the said amendment. Mr. Mallary moved that the Committee rise. This motion was opposed by Mr. Cocke and Mr. Taylor, when it was withdrawn by the mover, who observed that he perceived it was leading to a discussion, which was the very thing he intended to avoid. Mr. Taylor moved to strike out that part of the amendment which related to graduating the public ground, which was agreed to — ayes 79. Mr. Rochester moved to amend the amendment, by striking out §1,250, and to insert in lieu thereof, the sum of §750. After a discussion of the subject, by Messrs. Van Wyck, Kent, Nelson of Massachusetts, and Rhea, the question was taken, and negatived. The amendment of the Senate, as amended, was then agreed to — ayes 68, noes 34, and the Committee rose, and reported the same. In the House, the decisions in the Committee of the Whole were affirmed — ayes 74. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 24, 1824: Annals of Congress, 18 — 1, p. 422.] GENERAL APPROPRIATION BILL. On motion of Mr. Smith, the Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, proceeded to consider the bill ‘ ‘ making appropriations for the support of Government for the year 1824,” with the several amendments proposed thereto by the Committee on Finance in the Senate. The several amendments proposed in the details of the bill, were taken up, in course. * * * The next amendment was, to strike out the amount of §1,160, “ for improving the Capitol square, and painting the railing round the same,” and insert in lieu thereof the sum of §3,000. Mr. Smith explained the reasons for proposing this increase. Messrs. Macon, and Holmes, of Maine, made some few remarks upon the subject; and the amendment was then carried. [Letter of J. Elgar, Commissioner of Public Buildings, to the Chairman of the House Committee for Finishing and Furnishing the Public Buildings, Jan. 26, 1826. (19 — 2, House Report No. 122, p. 6.)] D. Office of Comm’r of Public Buildings, Washington, January 26th, 1826. Sir: I have now the honor to enclose estimates for the Capitol and its appendages, and for furnishing the President’s House. The ground around the Capitol has been so encumbered with materials and shops, as to prevent any systematic attempt to regulate it; and no plan for that purpose has, as yet, been arranged. Until a design for the improvement of the ground, gateways, &c. shall have been adopted, it is not practicable to estimate the ultimate expense. It is proposed, therefore, to confine our operations, for the present season, to finish- ing the foot-way on the outside of the wall, and progressing with regulating and planting the ground as circumstances may admit, and, in the mean time, to have a plan and estimates prepared for future consideration. * * * I have the honor to remain, with the greatest respect, sir, your most obedient servant, , J. Elgar. Hon. Stephen Van Rensselaer, Chairman of the Committee on the Public Bu ildings, ci'c. The Grounds. 1037 [Senate proceedings of Mar. 2, 1827: Register of Debates, 19 — 2, v. 3, p. 500.] On motion of Mr. Chambers, the bill making appropriations for the Public Build- ings, was taken up, explained in Committee of the Whole, by Mr. Chambers, who offered several amendments; which were agreed to. On one of these items Mr. Chambers observed that the only difficulty suggested when this bill was before the Senate yesterday, was in relation to the proposed entrance through the West front. He did not intend to urge this improvement after the Senate had indicated an opposition to it. The estimated cost of materials and work for the whole improvement was 15,064. This sum deducted from the sum now in the bill would leave $80,215 05. Justice to an individual connected with this transaction, required that this sum should be increased. He had the authority of the Architect to say that more than a month since, Mr. Lee had received an order from the Commissioner to procure additional force, and, with all possible despatch, to prepare the necessary stone. The Commissioner acted, it is said, under the brder of the Committee of the House of Bepresentatives. Mr. Lee, however, had no cause to inquire into his authority, his order being the usual and only mode by which gtone had heretofore been procured. It was believed that the greater part of the stone then ordered, had been taken from the quarry; and every principle of justice required that so much of it as had been prepared, should be paid for. The cost of the stone, which was to be found in two items of the estimate furnished by the Architect, one of $441, the other of $1,545, amounting to $1,986, he proposed to include in the appropriation to meet the claim of Mr. Lee. This sum, added to the before mentioned sum of $80,215 05, will make $82,201 05, which last mentioned amount he proposed to substitute for the sum mentioned in the bill. The motion was agreed to, and the bill was then read a third time, and returned to the other House. [From the report of Charles Bulflneh, Architect of the Capitol. (20 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 41, p. 6.)] REPORT OF THE PROCEEDINGS ON THE PUBLIC BUILDINGS, FOR THE YEAR 1827. Washington, December 27, 1827. * * * In proceeding upon the work, attention was directed to such parts as were most essential, and which would produce a general approach towards the completion of the building, and regulation of the grounds. A flight of steps, on the west side, leading to the first terrace, has been completed; the semicircular wall, with the arches for wood vaults, capable of containing four hundred cords, with two flights of steps, leading to the upper terrace over the vaults, are also finished. A large quantity of earth has been removed from the easterly part of Capitol Square, to bring it to its proper graduation, and is deposited, in part, on the west side, to form the terrace and glacis; also, to raise Pennsylvania avenue to the right ascent, and otherwise disposed to bring the contiguous public grounds into order on the south side of the Capitol. Broad pavements of stone flags are laid on the east front, and on the north and south ends of the building, and brick pavement, of the same width, continued to the north and south entrances, over the circular terrace, and along the line of the west side of the square. A rich cast-iron railing borders the terrace round the building, and the grounds to the west. The garden grounds to the east are enclosed by a wrought-iron railing, conformable to that which sur- rounds the square. Stone piers to the north and south entrances, and to the square, have been raised to the height to receive the railing, but are not completed. * * * Charles Bulfinch, Architect of Capitol of United States. Joseph Elgar, Esq., Commissioner of Public Buildings. 1038 Documentary History of the Capitol. [Ho. of Reps. Rep. No. 69, 20th Congress, 2d Session. Appropriation for the public buildings. Feb- ruary 4, 1829.] Mr. Van Rensselaer, from the Committee on the Public Buildings, made the fol- lowing report: The Select Committee on the Public Buildings beg leave to submit the following report, and accompanying documents: The paper marked A, being a letter from the Architect of the Capitol to the Chairman of the committee, contains an estimate of repairs and work to be done on and about the Capitol. The committee have deemed it their duty to recommend to the House an appropriation for a part of the objects included in this estimate. That portion of it which is printed in italics is regarded by the committee as a work necessary to the improvement of the public grounds in the immediate vicinity of the Capitol, and as such, likely, at some period, to be sanctioned by Congress. But the committee have not thought it expedient to recommend it, at the present session. * * * Another plan has been submitted to the committee, (paper D, ) for an ample sup- ply of water at the Capitol, of which the committee are disposed to think favorably, but which they have not recommended for present adoption. By a law, passed at the last session of Congress, the office of Architect of the Capitol was made to cease on the fourth day of March of the present year. As the work which is necessary to he done in repairing, finishing, and enclosing the Capitol will occupy a portion of the ensuing year, it became necessary to make provision for continuing the Architect in office, so long as might be requisite for this purpose. This object is embraced. in the second section of the bill reported by the committee. (A.) January 21, 1829. Sir: It w T as expected, at the close of the last session of Congress, that all the work specified in the estimates on which the appropriation for the Capitol was founded, would be completed in the course of the current season. This has been effected as far as was possible in the short recess, but, owing to unavoidable hindrances, some portions are still unfinished. 1st. The stone for flagging part of the passages was not _ received until it was too late to attempt to use it. The same is now prepared and ready for laying. 2d. The iron work of the north and south entrances is in great forwardness, but the completing of this, and of the railing to enclose the grounds, has been prevented by the inclemency of the season. It is hoped that some part of this work, which will not interfere with the convenience of Congress, may be finished during the session. I now beg leave to ask the attention of the committee to the expediency of having two lines of iron scroll railing from the western lodges to the first flight of steps, for the purpose of securing the grounds from the intrusion of cattle, to which they will be subject, from the unavoidable necessity of keeping open the western gates. I present an estimate for this fencing, and for gutters of free stone, in place of the temporary gutters now laid. Also, an estimate for painting part of the exterior of the building, particularly of the roof, which requires attention and repair. The want of stabling for the horses used by the messengers of both Houses of Con- gress has been much felt, and has led to inconveniencies and delay in executing business. I offer a plan and estimate for a stable, to be placed on the public ground on a line with the engine house. The Capitol being now finished with the exception of these particular objects, I beg leave to suggest that the public grounds immediately adjacent should conform .Rep. 646 — 58-! VIEW OF THE OLD CAPITOL AND GROUNDS FROM THE PRESIDENT’S HOUSE. The Grounds. 1039 in some degree to the importance and high finish of the building. To bring them into such state, I propose that the triangular space between the Pennsylvania and Maryland avenues, and as far west as Third street at the bend of the canal, should be permanently fenced in. This would secure the improvement of the ground, and render it practicable to form the foot walks on the avenues, one of which has not been brought into form, and the other is only paved of one-half the required width. I also propose to regulate and bring to its proper graduation the portion of the Maryland avenue nearest to the Capitol, and to plant, the whole avenue with four ranges of forest trees. Nothing has been done of this kind for the embellishment and advantage of the approaches to the public buildings since the time of the administration of Mr. Jefferson, when he directed the improving and planting of Pennsylvania avenue, and defrayed the expense from funds under his control. Besides the beauty and healthiness of these improvements, they must add much to the value of the contiguous land belonging to the public, which may be offered for sale after the improvements shall have been effected. With great respect, your obedient servant, Charles Bulfinch. Hon. Stephen Van Rensselaer, Chairman of , the Committee on Public Buildings. Estimate of work 'proposed to be done on the Capitol and its vicinity in the year 1829. Two lines of iron scroll fencing, from the lodges to the first flight of steps. A gutter of free stone, three feet wide, on each side and up the glacis Finishing gates and fences Finishing the court in south wing Laying stone flagging in passages Painting the outside of the building, and repairs of roof Work on the grounds, regulating, and planting, viz: For gardener’s salary $750 labor and carts 1, 250 Stable for messengers’ horses An iron rail fence, on a low brick wall, to enclose the public grounds west of the Capitol, viz: Length of fencing 3,650 feet, at §6 Twelve stone piers, at $300 Steps into the ground from the street Paving 2,400 feet along the above fence Graduating Maryland avenue south of these grounds Planting and securing 1,000 trees on said avenue Graduating and bringing into order the public land north of the Capitol, and bordering on Pennsylvania avenue $2, 073 50 921 92 2, 000 00 967 21 300 00 4, 000 00 2, 000 00 2, 000 00 21, 900 00 3, 600 00 800 00 2, 400 00 1, 500 00 1,000 00 3,000 00 Respectfully presented by N. B. Amount of preceding estimate Deduct 48, 462 63 Charles Bulfinch, Architect Capitol U. S. $48, 462 63 31, 200 00 Add this sum, extension of the privies on south wing 17,262 63 1, 500 00 18, 762 63 1040 Documentary History of the Capitol. (D.) Washington, January 26, 1829. Sir: After reflecting on' the conversation I had with you some days ago respecting the scarcity of water on the Capitol hill, either for culinary purposes, cleanliness, or to extinguish fires, I am decidedly of opinion that something should be done to ensure a sufficient supply of that most useful and necessary article. I have been informed that there is not a well on the hill but may be pumped dry in fifteen minutes: if that is the case, and from the best information I have been able to procure I believe it to be true, only let us figure to ourselves the consequences of a fire on the Capitol hill, either in the Capitol itself or in the houses of individuals: the canal and the Tiber creek are the only places from which a supply of water could be obtained; and the distance is too great, the population too thin, and the fire engines too few in number, and too inefficient, to justify any hope of success in a contest with that most terrible of all destroying elements, fire. Three years ago I took a series of levels to find the height of one of the branches of the Tiber creek, to ascertain the practicability of bringing a supply of water to the Capitol: on examining the different branches, the only one that afforded any chance of a supply at a proper elevation is that branch which passes to the east side of the Catholic burying-ground, and heads on the lands of Thomas Peter and Mr. Dunlop, and is about north 12° west of the Capitol, and distant about three miles. The point to which I carried the level is about 150 yards above the road which runs along the northern boundary of the city, where, on the east side of a large white oak tree, and close to the ground, there is a bench mark, which is 10.315 feet above the stone pavement under the arcade in front of the Capitol. From the best information I am able to obtain, this branch, which is wholly sup- plied with springs, is (excepting in rainy weather) the same nearly in Summer and Winter; and by a careful measurement of the quantity of water furnished at a time when it might be considered at its minimum, made by the late Col. Roberdeau, Maj. Kearney, and myself, it was found to discharge 124 cubic feet in two minutes and four seconds, or 13,935 cubic feet, equal to 104,241 wine gallons, in 24 hours. On examining the sources of this branch, it is found to head in a swamp about one-third of a mile above the point the level was carried to, and is, as before observed, entirely fed by springs, which might be collected, by means of covered drains, into a reservoir at a clump of cedar bushes near a small brick house on the west side of the swamp; and on a reconnoisance of this site, I believe that five more feet of ele- vation might be obtained, which would reach a point in the Capitol 15 feet above the basement story. If this water should be brought to the Capitol hill, and terminate in a large reser- voir, say at the highest point of the Capitol square, the security and advantage accruing both to public and private property is very obvious: from that point it could be taken to every part of the Capitol and public grounds, at the elevation of the res- ervoir, not only for security against fire, but for other purposes, among which niay be enumerated objects of cleanliness, watering the grass, shrubbery, trees, &c. &c., and might be conveyed to the whole of the inhabited parts of the hill; thereby affording an abundant supply for extinguishing fires, and for every useful and neces- sary purpose. To make out an accurate estimate of the expense would require a careful survey of the line along which the conveyance will be made, the distance, and of course the length of pipes necessary; but an approximation may be made near enough by assuming the following data, viz: To 3 miles of a cast iron pipe, 3 inches in the interior diameter, say 15,840 running feet, laid, including every expense, at one dollar per running foot $15,840 00 The Grounds. 1041 To reservoir and drains for collecting the water at the source $1, 500 00 To reservoir on Capitol square, 60 x 25, 10 feet deep, faced and paved with cut stone, and laid in Roman cement 5, 000 00 To conveyance to the different parts of the Capitol and public grounds.. 2, 000 00 To contingencies and unforeseen incidents 660 00 Total $25, 000 00 I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Robert Leckie. To the Commissioner of Public Buildings. [Rep. No. 145. House of Representatives, 21st Congress, 1st Session. Water for the Capitol. Feb. 2, 1830. — Referred to the Committee on the Public Buildings. Letter from George Camaron, upon the subject of furnishing a supply of water for the use of the Capitol.] To the Honorable the Speaker Of the House of Representatives of the United States. Sir: You are respectfully requested to present the following Hydraulic plans and instruments to the consideration of the House of Representatives. A model corre- sponding with the accompanying specification and drawing will be at your service, if called for. A fountain of pure spring water, affording four hogsheads per minute, can be obtained within five or six hundred yards from the Capitol, which may be raised by steam or other power, into a reservoir on the hill, in the vicinity of the Capitol. That portion of the water which may not be wanted about the Capitol, can be car- ried off to other parts of the city. I am prepared, if requested, to furnish calculations which exhibit the superiority of the plan for supplying pure water from springs in the neighborhood of the Capi- tol, over any plan which proposes to bring water through pipes a great distance by means of its own gravity. Yours respectfully, Geo. Camaron. [Rep. No. 281. House of Representatives, 21st Congress, 1st Session. Skinner’s Grand Basin — Water for public buildings, &c. March 8, 1830.] To the Honorable Chauncey Forward, Member of the House of Representatives: Sir: Permit the undersigned to make, through you, the following communication to the House of Representatives. It was sent to the honorable Speaker last Thurs- day, but unfortunately miscarried, so that he has never seen it, and the undersigned is unwilling to give the Speaker further trouble with it. Knowing that your con- stituents are deeply interested in whatever appertains to the city of Washington and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, he takes the liberty to request you to offer the within to the House, and move its printing, and reference to the proper committee. It is a subject, of so much importance, that he deems it a duty he owes to the public to bring before them the consideration of it, in a shape most likely for examination. The undersigned having had several years practical experience in civil engineering, and having lately been led, incidentally, as such, to look for some improvements of the city, he has become satisfied that no basin of water contemplated to be made within the city will be at all adequate to the purpose intended. A new conception has occurred on that subject, and, as he deems it, of sufficient magnitude to demand the attention of Congress, and of the city. The improvement aimed at will be II. Rep. 646 66 1042 Documentary History of the Capitol. obvious upon the following suggestions in a hasty outline; especially as it is under the eye of Congress. In the first place, it is proposed that there be formed a grand common basin, 200 eet in width, and about 400 perches in length, extending from near the foot of the botanic garden, through the centre of the mall, to the Potomac river; containing a sheet of water of about thirty acres, constructed, say, in the following manner: Let the excavation be one foot below low water mark, so that, when the tide is shut in by a lock and dam, it may contain a body of water from four to five feet in depth, renewable at pleasure. If, then, the contemplated canal from Georgetown be con- ducted into this basin, at the height of four feet above high tide, with a fall of two feet from Georgetown, it will have a uniform depth of water from seven to eight feet, making allowance for waste at the locks; which would be a depth sufficient for any steamboats, or for any vessels in the home trade. The immense importance of such a basin, not only as an ornament and finish of the public grounds in front of the capitol, but to the future growth and commerce of the city, as the undersigned would most respectfully suggest, deserves the attention both of Congress and the city. That this city is to become a commercial one, in no inferior sense of the word, seems now to be generally admitted. Should we not then be aware of this fact, and have an ultimate reference to it in all our preparatory movements? He begs’ leave to suggest another consideration of much weight, growing out of the foregoing. It will readily be perceived that there would be a fall, from the top of this basin to the bottom of the Washington canal, of about eight feet. Now, taking one half of the tide, which is, say, two feet, and add it to the four feet in the great basin above high water mark, and you have a nearly uniform mean water power of six feet fall — sufficient for any saw-mill. Moreover, this water power would be the same throughout the whole distance between centre market and, say, Fifteenth street; from which it would be in the power of Congress, and of the city, to derive great advantages, as will appear by the suggestions hereinafter made. To the city, it may become a source of revenue, besides the improvements and increase of population to which it would naturally lead, by selling or leasing this water power for the erection of saw-mills, grist-mills, breweries, nail factories, slitting and rolling mills, spin- ning, weaving, cloth dressing, trip-hammering, turning, grinding, polishing, and other machinery. There is still another consideration of this subject, of very great consequence, both in regard to the health of the city and its insurance against fire, and which comes in contact with a resolution of Congress, now before the Commissioner of Public Build- ings, which has for its object the bringing of water from some of the distant hills to the capitol, and other public buildings. It is for this reason, among others, that the undersigned lias thought proper to address Congress without loss of time. Because, if a substitute can be found in this water power, and much more than a substitute, it would seem to be proper to arrest the expense under that resolve. It is supposed that this substitute may be found in the following manner: If Congress were to erect a single building for hydraulic purposes, between the proposed basin and the old Washington canal, in connexion with the foregoing water power, operating a set of forcing pumps, water might be raised into a cistern on the top of the building of any supposed height or magnitude; so that water might be conveyed from it to the lobby of the House of Representatives, to the top of the General Post Office, and of all the other public buildings. And may it not be suggested that- there ought to be a tank of water on the top of all the public offices, from which, with their own hose, kept and fitted for that purpose, they might extinguish fire in any room in a very few minutes, and before any engine could arrive at the spot — an insurance of the public papers, and of the Patent Office, greater than that of all the fire engines in the city. Nor should we omit to hint to the city, as we pass along, how much use The Grounds. 1043 they might make of this same water power for similar purposes. For instance, how much would such a tank be worth to Gadsby’s immense establishment, not only as an insurance against fire, but for any other purposes to which he might choose to apply it. Suppose, then, that in connexion with the building aforesaid, there were to be four or five ten-feet water wheels, with a power of six feet fall; is it not appar- ent that a sufficient quantity of water might be raised for the supply of the public buildings? and that an extension of the same power would supply the whole city, in all future time, with water more decidedly wholesome than any which should be brought two or three miles from distant fountains? Nor would such a building, with all its machinery, cost but a small part of the expense of bringing a supply from the distant hills, if it could be obtained, which is at least doubtful. Nor, indeed, if bet- ter water could be obtained from the hills, for the purpose of drinking, which is not supposed to be the case, would it supersede the necessity of this more abundant fountain at the basin? and it should be remembered that the city of Philadelphia, by their new water works, which they say is the very best of water, is supplied from the Schuylkill. In the supposed case, the city of Washington may be watered by the Potomac river. It is apparent that this is no proper subject for individual enterprise, and that, to effect it in all its parts, there must be a co-operation of Congress, of the city of Washington, of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company, and of the Washington Canal Company; because the Washington Canal would become a foot-race for the establishments which should be erected between it and the great basin. [It is respectfully suggested that if, by this means, their purpose should be frustrated, they should be liberally paid for their stock in that undertaking.] Moreover, if the Washington Canal were converted into a foot-race and common sewer, it would, of course, be narrowed down to the width of, say, 30 feet; it might then have a bridge over every street; mills arid other buildings might be erected directly upon it, so that there need be no chasm in the population of that part of the city; and being paved with coarse flag stone on the bottom, as it necessarily must be, it would become a clean and wholesome refrigerator for that part of the city. And, by the way, the lands which that company have now a right to occupy, being of course thrown into market as building lots, in connexion with the water power, would be worth several times enough to buy out the whole concern. The entire opening down through the centre of the mall should be 600 feet, so as to have, beside the canal, 200 feet on each side for road and wharfage; leaving a strip of the mall on each side, say 350 feet wide, which, if it were laid out in building lots, would be worth more money than the whole mall without the basin. The strip on the North side, however, necessarily connected, as it would be, with the foregoing water power, is estimated at about three times the value of the strip on the South side of the basin. If, then, Congress were to give the strip on the North side of the basin to the city of Washington, to be laid out in building lots, in connexion with the lots given up by the old Washington Canal, and with the forementionecl water power, after selling lots enough to pay the present debts of the city, (not including the mil- lion of dollars borrowed for the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal) the remaining lots and leases of this water power, together with the tolls and wharfage of the basin, would create an income at least equal to the ordinary tax of the city. In order to give this subject a practical shape, it is necessary, perhaps, to say some- thing of the expense of this basin. The entire expense of the basin is put at two hundred seventy-six thousand dollars, based upon a calculation corrected by three practical engineers, one of whom has himself constructed more than 70 miles of road and canal; nor do they doubt that responsible individuals, with good security, would be found to undertake it for about that sum. That portion of the mall left on the South side, would be taken for nearly one half the sum; the other half would be in 1044 Documentary History of the Capitol. cash, as the work should be performed. The calculation, stated roundly, is thus made out: Excavation simply $100, 000 Extra removal of three-fourths of the contents, (say one mile) 95, 000 Walls, coping, &c 40, 000 Lock, dam, &c 30, 000 Opening the entrance channel to the lock 10, 000 Two rows of best trees, on each side 1, 000 I am, Sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Washington, March 2, 1830. 276, 000 I. L. Skinner. notes on the foregoing. That the Washington Canal, with the contemplated basin at the mouth of the Tiber, cannot lie made to answer the same purposes as the proposed basin, is obvious from the following considerations: 1. It cannot be made to have the same capacity. 2. To give it the same height would cost more money, on the same area, on account of the badness of the bottom and of the materials to be excavated, and because it must have a new separate part for a foot-race. There is, moreover, an insuperable objection to the Washington Canal and basin, since to raise the water in it as high as proposed would choke up all the sewers, and wet the cellars in the most populous part of the Pennsylvania Avenue. 2. It is presumed that the charter of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company will be found to authorize them to come down to the proposed basin. And why not? They are authorized to come “to tide water.” In legal construction, not simply to tide water, for then they must stop at the Little Falls; but into tide water far enough to meet the commerce of the ocean, which is the object of the undertaking; and also to accommodate those who live on tidewater. And where is that most suitable and central point in tide water, if it be not the con- templated basin? a point exactly central for Georgetown, Washington, the Navy Yard, and Alexandria. For their difference of water distance is no difference at all in a practical sense. 3. Will not the proposed basin save the great expense of the aqueduct and canal from Georgetown to Alexandria? since it is certain that- Alexandria never can com- pete with Georgetown in the boat trade by such a canal. It would only lead them to the pursuit of an imaginary interest; whereas their real interest and strength lie in their situation on the Potomac, with a depth of water sufficient for any foreign commerce, within thirty minutes steamboat distance from the proposed central basin. 4. A canal from this central basin to the Eastern Branch, with a lock and dam of the same height, would make a finish of this whole subject, and leave nothing further to be contemplated. 5. There is one more fact that we might dwell upon a moment with pleasure. It is the tribute of respect which the contemplated basin would pay to Congress, for the patriotism with which they have sustained the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal from the beginning, as it will bring the water of one of the great rivers of the West to the South front door of the Capitol, and some of the commerce of the richest valley on the globe, of equal extent, into a basin of water under their own eye. The Grounds. 1045 [House of Representatives. Rep. No. 344. 21st Congress, 1st session. Water for the Capitol. Letter from Robert Mills to the Chairman of the Committee on the Public Buildings, upon the subject of providing a supply of water for the use of the Capitol. April 5, 1830.] City of Washington, March 30, 1830. The Honorable G. C. Verplanck, Chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings. Dear Sir: I have given a personal examination to all the main streams contiguous to the city, capable of giving the requisite supply of water, for the purpose of irri- gating the public buildings and grounds, together with furnishing the means of guarding against the ravages of fire, and meeting the future demands of the city; and would take the liberty of submitting the following brief expose on the relative merits of these streams, and the probable expense of conducting them to the Capitol. First — The waters of the Tiber. This stream is the nearest to the Capitol, and may therefore be brought there at the least expense, but it is necessarily of limited capacity, and doubtful character, with regard to yielding a permanent and full supply. The main head springs, which have been examined and gauged, are found to yield as follows: No. 1. seven gallons per minute: No. 2. three gallons per minute: No. 3. four and a half gallons per minute. The expense of bringing in the whole to the Capitol is estimated to cost $43,7104, exclusive of purchase of springs. The cost of bringing in the first is about §32,000, besides the right of the spring. If it should be thought expedient to resort to these waters, then, to avail ourselves of all the advantages furnished by them, I would suggest the following plan of operation. First, To construct a proper reservoir, or basin, (at a point where all the head springs fall into the main ravine) capable of collecting and retaining all the flow of the descending streams. Second, To lead these united waters, by a proper channel, to a point where they may be used to the greatest advantage. Third, To create a power by this means, equivalent to raise the necessary supply for the Capitol into a basin on the top of the adjacent high grounds, from whence it may be conducted by pipes where required. Fourth, To collect the water, used to work the pump engine, after it has been discharged from the wheel, into a proper basin, and lead it by a canal or tunnel, along the edge of the Capitol hill into a reservoir constructed in front of the Capitol to the East, at a correspond- ing level, which it is presumed, will be of sufficient altitude to command the Presi- dent’s house and offices, Navy Yard, Penitentiary, &c. There is another stream which may be taken into this last line of supply, as it will be intersected by it, a little to the Northwest of the Capitol; and thus, an additional quantity of water obtained to the reservoir, which will be mostly drawn from. According to this plan, it will be seen, that none of the available waters of this stream would be lost, but all husbanded and judiciously applied; not only furnishing a supply to the Capitol, but providing an abundant supply for the other [lublic buildings. The expenses of carrying this plan into execution, with a view simply to furnishing the Capitol with water, would probably not exceed $20,000; if the other public buildings are supplied also, the additional cost would vary from $10,000 to $20,000, according to extent of supply.. The position of the upper reservoir would not be much over a mile from the Capitol. The mill seat situate on the Tiber presents a suitable place for the pump engine house; this mill seat has a head and fall of about 30 feet, and works an overshot wheel. It has no head reservoir to collect the waters above, and consequently, works under every disadvantage; yet it runs two pair of stones six months in the year. If it had the addition of a head reservoir, it is believed that it would be capable of running, the year round, one pair at least. The small quantity of water demanded for the use of the Capitol, could be supplied 1046 Documentary History of the Capitol. at little expense, as it would require but a small engine, whilst the other public buildings, demanding a much larger supply, would be able to realize this at the same time (at no expense of power) from the source created by the expended water of the engine. If the waters of the Tiber, therefore, should be preferred, it would be most advisable that they should be introduced in this way as furnishing the most abundant supply, at the least expense. Second — The waters of Rock Creek. The position of this stream, with regard to the city, is very favorable as a source from whence a supply of water may be obtained for all the purposes demanded by the public buildings, not only at present, but looking forward to the increase of the city, for all future demands, as well of a private as of a public nature. The capacity of this stream to furnish a full supply of water to the city, cannot be doubted, and the nature of the bordering high grounds is peculiarly well adapted for the formation of suitable reservoirs, sufficiently elevated to admit of the water they may contain, to be conducted to the Capitol hill. The character of country through which this stream flows, is mountainous and rocky; the springs, therefore, are constant, and of a pure quality, running mostly over a rocky bed. The number and power of the mill seats, situate on this stream, prove its importance as a means of answering all the reasonable demands of the city, whether for useful or ornamental purposes; and its location evidently points it out as a most suitable source from whence to supply the public build- ings with water, and at little expense, commensurate with the extent of the objects to be embraced. Lying on the West side of the city, (and of course of the public buildings) the water taken from this stream would pass through the most populous parts of the city, along by the President’s house, public offices, post office, &c.. before reaching the Capitol; thus every portion of the conduit pipe would or may be profitably employed, and eventually reimbursed the first cost; whereas, bringing the water from the East side of the city, all the length of the i>ipe, leading from the head reservoir, would benefit no other object than the Capitol; to advantage the other public buddings, so much additional pipe would be requisite, as they are distant from the Capitol, and then there would not be an adequate supply for all purposes. The importance of providing all the public buildings with a full supply of water, as a guard against the ravages of fire, can- not be questioned; and as it is of importance that provision be made, also, for the city generally, in this particular, the value of the waters of Rock creek must be manifest. The higher parts of the city are now dependent on wells for a supply of water. The inadequacy of these, in times of fire, need not be shown. The fate of such cities as have had to depend on this precarious source of supply, on these occa- sions, is well known. The ample supply of water which this stream would furnish will afford the means of introducing all those useful and ornamental water works to the public buildings anil squares which are so refreshing and beautiful in the sultry season, and which are so peculiarly grateful in this climate. But it is in the event of a fire that its value would be most sensibly appreciated, and particularly con- nected with the offices, where so many valuable documents are deposited, the loss of which would, perhaps, be irreparable. The plan of operation associated with this stream as a means of supply to the public buildings, would be as follows: 1st. To purchase the requisite water power and rights on this stream, at a suitable point where a reservoir might be constructed sufficiently elevated to receive the waters of supply for the public buildings, &c. 2d. To con- struct the necessary basins, and to erect a pump engine, of a sufficient capacity to supply the summit basin with water. 3d. To conduct a main supply pipe from the The Grounds. 1047 summit basin, of a proper calibre, first, down to the Pennsylvania Avenue above the Six Buildings, thence along the said avenue, passing the President’s House, and public offices, (each of which would receive a branch pipe of supply) and terminating on the Capitol Hill. Lateral pipes may branch off from the main, to answer any other public or private demand which it may be proper to attend to. There are two or three situations on Rock Creek admirably well calculated for the purposes demanded, and which would admit of the construction of the necessary water works at a moderate cost. The whole expense of conducting the water to the Capitol from this quarter will probably not exceed $50,000, and give a supply also to the President’s House and offices. The main pipe will be very little longer than what would be required to bring the springs of the Tiber to the Capitol. The pur- chase of the water rights, and the erection of a pump engine, would be the chief expense additional incurred. There is a branch of Rock Creek which, from the circumstance of the hilly char- acter of the country in which it rises, I am inclined to think will be found to give a more ample supply of water than any branch of the Tiber, and must be considerably more elevated. It rises not very distant from the North boundary of the City. I have annexed a sketch of the relative positions of all the sources of supply proposed, with the Capitol and President’s House, by which you can form a judgment of the relative merits of each. Should the committee think favorably of either of the plans proposed, and desire a more minute examination and estimate of the expense of carrying them into exe- cution, I would devote my attention to the subject farther, and furnish the requisite information as soon as practicable. Having been engaged several years in works of this nature, (particularly in Baltimore, where I was charged with the works for sup- plying that city with water, ) 1 am induced to believe that I could be serviceable to the committee in suggesting and carrying any plans into execution which they may approve, and therefore would respectfully offer my professional services. Before closing I would beg leave to make a few general remarks. Both the city of Philadelphia and that of Baltimore are supplied by a pump engine, worked by a water power, derived from the same source that irrigates the city. There was more economy, simplicity, and certainty, in this mode of operation, than by steam. Rock Creek is a bolder stream than that which supplies the city of Baltimore with water; and this last has sufficed for the demands of the city to the present time, with a population of 60,000. The waters of large streams, particularly running through a hilly, rocky, or mountainous country, are considered as always preferable to springs. The longer water is exposed to the air, the softer and more wholesome it becomes. Water taken from wells is an instance, and springs partake more or less of the nature of well water, in consequence of their confined state. Again, to depend on one or two springs for a public supply is very precarious — springs frequently sink, or dry up; they never increase, but, on the contrary, decrease in quantity; there is a natural cause for this in a cultivated country; 1st, the cutting off the trees, (the natural conductors of moisture) and the consequent exposure of the surface of the ground to the action of the sun’s rays; 2d, the draining of marshy grounds, &c. A spring (or springs) therefore should never be resorted to for a supply of water for public pur- poses, except no alternative is left but to use them or be without water. Washington is surrounded with abundant streams, which possess a power within themselves to supply any quantity of water which may be demanded. As a large expense must necessarily be incurred, even in resorting to a spring, it would be worthy of consid- eration whether a more effective supply could not be obtained, and, at the same cost, by resorting to a congregation of springs. Excuse the liberty I have taken in making these remarks, and permit me to salute you with sentiments of respect. Robekt Mills. 1048 Documentary History of the Capitol. [House of Representatives. Rep. No. 375. 21st Congress, 1st session. Skinner’s Grand Central Basin. April 20, 1830. Read, and referred to the Committee on Internal Improvements.] Mr. Taliaferro, from the Committee for the District of Columbia, to which had been referred, in part, the letter from Mr. Skinner, upon the subject of a central canal basin in the city of Washington, made the following report: The Committee for the District of Columbia, to whom was referred, in part, the letter of Mr. Skinner, addressed to the House of Representatives, upon the subject of a central canal basin in the city of Washington, and the supply of water for the public buildings, &c. &c. have had the same under consideration, and concur in three general propositions. The first is, that the proposed central basin would be a superb and highly ornamental finish to the arrangement of the public grounds on the AVest of the Capitol, as well as the most appropriate and useful harbor and mart of trade in the centre of the city, on a convenient line between its heavy and dis- tributory commerce, which in its present condition are too widely separated. The second is, that this reservoir, fed by a suitable conductor from the Georgetown basin, would give, by the application of suitable means, an abundant supply of water for the security of the public buildings against fire, &c. &c. The third is, that the whole plan taken together would bring into the market a large amount of building lots, which, added to the tolls and wharfage of the basin, might probably produce a fund more in amount than the cost of the work. The committee, however, not having the time or the means to make the necessary estimates, are of opinion that the subject deserves examination; and, believing that, the object falls more properly within the range of the functions of another committee, ask to be discharged from its further consideration, and beg leave to recommend to the House the following resolution: Resolved, That the Committee on Internal Improvements be instructed to take the subject under their consideration, and to decide on the propriety of requesting the President of the United States to cause an examination to be made into the practi- cability, utility, and cost, of the contemplated work; and order a report of the result of such examination to be made to the present or to the next session of Congress. The foregoing resolution being read, was, on the question put thereon, agreed to by the House. [House of Representatives. Rep. No. 376. 21st Congress, 1st session. Skinner’s Grand Central Basin. April 22, 1830.] Mr. Craig, of Anrginia, from the Committee on Internal Improvements, to which the subject had been referred, made the following report: The Committee on Internal Improvements, to whom was referred the letter of Mr. Skinner, on the subject of a central basin in the city of Washington, have had the same under consideration, and beg leave, respectfully, to express their concurrence in opinion with the Committee on the District of Columbia, to whom the same sub- ject was, heretofore, referred, that the proposed work is of such importance, on account of the tendency it will have to enhance the value of the adjacent public lots, and the accommodation it will afford to the commercial action of the city of AVash- ington, in addition to its ornamental effects, as, in the opinion of this committee, will justify a survey and estimate. This survey and estimate can, as this committee believe, be accomplished by the Board of Internal Improvements, under the direc- tion of the President, without any special appropriation being made to that object. They, therefore, recommend the adoption of the following resolution: Resolved, That the basin and other improvements, contemplated in the plan of Mr. Skinner, are of such importance to the public, as well as to the city of AV ashing- In' <0 \ PLAT OF ('.ROUNDS, (S.in The Grounds. 1049 ton, as to merit a survey and examination. And that the President of the United States be, and he is hereby, requested to procure the same to be made, by the Board of Engineers, under the direction of the Secretary of War, and to cause a report thereof, together with an estimate of the cost, to be laid before Congress, as early as may be at their next session. [From the “Act making appropriations for the public buildings, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 2, 1831. (Stats, at Large, v. 4, 474.)] To make good the deficiency in the estimates of the year one thousand eight hun- dred and twenty-nine, for finishing gates and fences, five thousand nine hundred and eighty-four dollars. For purchasing Seneca stone flagging for the terrace and walks adjoining the Capitol, three thousand dollars. [From the “Act for improving Pennsylvania Avenue, supplying the public buildings with water, and for paving the walk from the western gate to the Capitol with flagging,” approved May 25, 1832. (Stats, at Large, v. 4, 518.)] For bringing water in pipes to the Capitol, and the construction of reservoirs and hydrants, and the purchase of the rights of individuals to the water, forty thousand dollars. Sec. 3. And be it further enacted, That- the commissioner of the public buildings is hereby authorized and directed to contract for the jiurchase, delivery, and laying of Seneca flagging on the walk from the western gate to the Capitol ; and for this pur- pose the sum of seven thousand one hundred and two dollars be, and the same is hereby, appropiated, to be paid out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated. [From the “Act making appropriations for the public buildings, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 2, 1833. (Stats, at Large, v. 4, 649.)] For dressing and laying the stone, procured for paving the terrace of the Capitol, seven thousand dollars. For enclosing and improving the public ground north of the Capitol, two thousand dollars. [House proceedings of June 7, 1834: Register of Debates, 23 — 1, v. 10, pt. 4, p. 4414.] The bill making appropriations for the public buildings and grounds, and for other purpose, was taken up. Mr. Parker moved to destroy the bill by striking out the whole of it; but after- wards modified his motion by striking out the enacting clause, and was understood as finally withdrawing it. On motion of Mr. Fuller, the bill was amended by striking out the following clause: “For salary of gardener employed in superintending the Capitol square and other public grounds, lighting lamps, keeping grounds and walks in order, and planting in the Capitol square, three thousand two hundred and fifty dollars.” Mr. E. Everett proposed to amend it by removing the naval monument from its present situation to the square east of the Capitol; but, on a suggestion of Mr. Wat- 1050 Documentary History of the Capitol. mough, modified the motion to remove it to the botanic garden; but, after some desultory discussion, the motion was rejected. On motion of Mr. Mercer, the proposed wall round the botanic garden was stricken out ; he desiring to have the western square enlarged; to which purpose such a wall would be an obstacle. * * * Mr. Vinton moved to extend the square west of the Capitol to the foot of the slope, and to extend the botanic garden to the canal, but the motion did not succeed. [From the “Act in addition to the act entitled ‘An act making appropriations, in part, for the sup- port of Government, for the year eighteen hundred and thirty-six, and for other purposes,’ ” approved July 4, 183fi. (Stats, at Large, v. 5, p. 114.)] For Capitol square and other public grounds, one thousand dollars. For graveling the yard east of the Capitol, two thousand dollars. For conveying the surplus water of the Capitol to the Botanic Garden, making a basin, and purchasing a fountain of Hiram Powers, five thousand dollars. For extending the Capitol square, and improving the grounds within and adjacent to the same, as far west as the first street intersecting the Pennsylvania Avenue from the east, the sum of twenty-five thousand dollars, to be paid out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated. [House of Representatives, Doc. No. 36, 24th Congress, 2d session. Expenditure — public buildings Report of the Commissioner of the Public Buildings, made in obedience to the act of the 3d March, 1829. December 23, 1836.] Office of Commissioner of Public Buildings, December SI, 1836. Sir : In obedience to the act of Congress, passed March 3, 1829, requiring the Commissioner of the Public Buildings to make an annual report of the manner in which all appropriations for the public buildings and grounds have been applied, &c., I have the honor to report, that the alterations, repairs, and improvements directed to be made under the several appropriations have been faithfully attended to, and that the expenditures on the public buildings, and other objects committed to my charge, have been as follows, viz : * * * For gravelling the yard east of the Capitol §1, 907 091 * * * For the purchase of Smith’s spring, including one acre of land, and for enclosing the same; for building culverts, and keeping the water-pipes in order 5, 115 721 * * * For extending the Capitol square, and improving the grounds within and adjacent to the same, as far west as the first street intersecting Penn- sylvania avenue from the east 15, 513 02J * * * The yard east of the Capitol has been graduated and improved by a thick coat of gravel and clay, which, from the adhesive quality of the material used, will, in a short time, become firm and compact. The extension of the Capitol square as far west as First street has engaged much of my attention, and, though the work has been retarded for the want of materials, the whole enclosure will be completed by the last of March. A part of the materials have been purchased “for conveying the surplus water of The Grounds. 1051 the Capitol to the botanic garden, making a basin, and purchasing a fountain of Hiram Powers; ” but owing to the failure on the part of the contractor to comply with his contract, the work will not be finished before the month of May. Mr. John A. Smith’s spring, with one acre of land, has been purchased for the sum appropriated by Congress for that purpose, and a deed, certified to be good by the district attorney, has been executed for the same, and recorded in the proper office. It may be proper here to state, that, by a contract heretofore entered into between Mr. John A. Smith (the former proprietor of the spring which supplies with water the reservoirs at the Capitol,) and my predecessor in office, Mr. Smith conveyed to the United States, for a valuable consideration, all the water within an enclosed wall of eight feet square. It was ascertained by several measurements, that the spring within the enclosure yielded only sixteen gallons of 'water per minute — a quantity barely sufficient to supply one of the reservoirs with pure water. By the late purchase a supply of sixty-six gallons of water per minute has been added to the head fountain, as will appear by the accompanying report of Mr. Mills, the architect, marked A. * * * Well selected trees have been planted round Lafayette and Fountain squares, and the trees and shrubs at the Capitol and President’s squares have been also well attended to, and the grounds improved by top dressings of rich compost, prepared during the year. * * * I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient servant, The Hon. the Speaker of the House of Representatives. * * * W. Noland. [From the “Act making appropriations for the civil and diplomatic expenses of Government for the year eighteen hundred and thirty-seven,” approved Mar. 3, 1837. (Stats, at Large, v. 5, 172.)] For completing the improvements commenced, by extending the capitol square west, forty thousand dollars. [House of Representatives. Doc. No. 28. 25th Congress, 2d session. Annual report of the Commis- sioner of Public Buildings, December 15, 1837.] Office of Commissioner of Public Buildings, December 15, 1837. Sir: In compliance with the act of Congress, passed March 3d, 1829, entitled “An act making appropriations for public buildings, and other purposes,” I have the honor to report that the expenditures on the public buildings, and other objects under my charge, during the present year, have been as follows: * * * For completing the improvements commenced, by extending the Capitol square west 838, 472 22 * * * For conducting the water along the Pennsylvania avenue, from the pipes at the Capitol, to the Treasury and General Post Office buildings, with the necessary fire plugs to water the avenue 9, 326 00 * * * The extending of Capitol square to First street west, has been completed, so far as was contemplated by the appropriations of March last, with the exception of a part of the centre footway, which has been left in an unfinished state for the want of materials, the contractor having failed to send on the requisite supply of flagging. * * * 1052 Documentary History of the Capitol. Estimates of appropriations necessary for the public buildings and improvements of the public grounds, will be laid before the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. I have the honor to be, with high respect, your obedient servant, W. Noland. Hon. the Speaker of the House o f Heps. [From the “Act making appropriations for the civil and diplomatic expenses of Government for the year eighteen hundred and thirty-eight,” approved Apr. 6, 1838. (Stats, at Large, v. 5, 222.)] For extending Capitol square west, and improving the same south of the centre footway, according to the plan already in part executed, under the provisions of an act of the last Congress, twenty-three thousand one hundred and twenty-seven dollars and eighty cents. [From the “Act making appropriations for the civil and diplomatic expenses of Government for the year ending the thirtieth day of June, one thousand eight hundred and forty-nine, and for other purposes,” approved Aug. 12, 1848. (Stats, at Large, v. 9, 293.)] * * * for the purchase and erection of lamps and lamp-posts of iron, and for the laying of gas pipes, and for other necessary fixtures for lighting the Capitol grounds with gas, to lie expended under the direction of Commissioner of Public Buildings, a sum not exceeding ten thousand dollars. [From the “Act to supply deficierfcies in the appropriations for the service of the fiscal year ending the thirtieth of June, one thousand eight hundred and fifty,” approved May 15, 1850. (Stats, at Large, v. 9, 426.)] For continuing the' pavement of the avenue around the Capitol grounds, sixteen thousand five hundred dollars, to be expended under the direction of the Commis- sioner of Public Buildings, on whose application to the Secretary of War an officer of the engineers or other corps of the Army may be detailed to supervise the work. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 30, 1852: Congressional Globe, 32 — 1, p. 921.] EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL. Mr. Borland submitted the following resolution; which was agreed to: Resolved, That the Committee on Public Buildings be instructed to inquire how far, and in what direction, the grounds around the Capitol will have to be extended in conformity with the plan of extension of the building that has been begun; how much private property would be included in such extension of the grounds; and what amount of money would probably be required to purchase said private property, and make the necessary improvements of the grounds in consequence of the extension. [From the annual report of B. B. French, Commissioner of Public Buildings, Oct. 5, 1854. (33 — 2, Senate Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 1, 603.)] My predecessor in this office made an estimate of fifteen thousand dollars for removing fences, grading streets, Ac., preparatory to the extension of the Capitol square. I made a like estimate last year, but nothing has yet been appropriated. I conceive it my duty again to call the attention of Congress to this important subject, as it is probable that, before another winter, the exterior of the wings of the Capitol will be very far advanced, if not completed. The circular roads on the north and south of the building must necessarily be extended so as to connect at New Jer- sey avenue south, and at Delaware avenue north, with B streets north and south, and the work of changing those roads should not be delayed beyond the next summer. I submit herewith a diagram, marked H, exhibiting my own ideas in relation to the changes which will be necessary. [Diagram not printed.] NORTHWEST VIEW OF CAPITOL, 1840, The Grounds. 1053 [House proceedings of Feb. 20, 1855: Congressional Globe, 33 — 2, p. 893.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union having under consideration the civil and diplomatic bill for 1856 — Mr. Ckaige. I am directed by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds to offer the following amendment: For removing fences, grading streets, &c., preparatory to the extension of Capitol square in accord- ance with plans submitted by the Commissioner of Public Buildings, $15,000: Provided , That no part of this appropriation shall be expended except upon property now owned by the United States. Mr. Chairman, that amendment becomes necessary in consequence of the exten- sion of the Capitol north and south. It is intended that the Capitol extension shall be completed by the next session of Congress, and therefore it is proper that we should now provide for the extension of the Capitol grounds north and south. It is with that view my amendment is now offered. Mr. Stanton, of Kentucky. Mr. Chairman, I have no doubt that important changes in the grounds will be necessary in consequence of the extension of the Capitol. But I simply desire the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds to state whether the plan proposed by the Commissioner of Public Buildings will conflict at all with that proposed in connection with the original plan for the extension of the Capitol. I understand that the plan originally devised will take in the whole or a large portion of the territory belonging to the Government on both sides of the Capitol grounds, so as to relieve to a considerable extent the abrupt- ness of the ascent. If that plan is carried out it will involve the expenditure of much more than $15,000, and the appropriation is not what is required. Mr. Jones. It will be as much as can be expended during this year, I presume. Mr. Ckaige. I do not understand precisely what the original plan was. The plan I have indicated, however, of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, contemplates the extension of the grounds to B street north, and to B street south. The appro- priation, the gentleman will see, is not to complete the grounds, but to remove the fences and rubbish, preparatory to completing them. Mr. Stanton. I only desired to know whether the plan of the Commissioner of Public Buildings would conflict with the one originally proposed in connection with the extension of the Capitol. I think it is a matter of some importance that, that plan should be carried out. It is necessary for the symmetry of the plan. The ter- races will have to be altered, and a great deal of work done, besides removing fences and rubbish; and this appropriation will certainly not carry out that plan. If the two plans conflict, we might as well decide between them now. Mr. Ckaige. This appropriation certainly cannot conflict with any plan for extend- ing these grounds, for it is only to remove fences, and to make the preparations necessary for making the extension. Mr. Stanton. Very well. I do not object to it. The question was taken and the amendment adopted. [From the “Act making appropriations for the civil and diplomatic expenses of Government, for the year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and fifty-six, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1855. (Stats, at Large, v. 10, 602.)] For removing fences, grading streets, &c., preparatory to the extension of the Capitol Square, in accordance with the plan submitted by the Commissioner of Public Buildings, fifteen thousand dollars: Provided, That no part of this appropria- tion shall be expended except upon property now owned by the United States. [From the annual report of Jno. B. Blake, Commissioner of Public Buildings, Oct. 11, 1855. (34 — 1, Senate Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 1, 596.)] Since I have been in office the grounds north of the Capitol have been filled up and graded, and the work has been transferred to those south of the Capitol, where 1054 Documentary History of the Capitol. the small balance of the appropriation that remains will be judiciously expended. The appropriation, so far as I can learn, was not based on any specific estimate, but was designed to accomplish as much of the work as possible, without any special designation of the extent. To complete the unfinished portion that has been com- menced, and which must necessarily be embraced in any plan that may be adopted, will require §566,000. This sum may strike the casual observer as being large, in comparison with the amount expended in grading the grounds north of the Capitol; but it is readily explained by the greater extent of surface and depth of filling up, which are more than five times as much as was required on the north side of the Capitol. As no plan for the extension of the Capjitol grounds has been adopted, it is impossible to state what amount of filling up and grading will be necessary, and, of course, no estimate of the final cost can at this time be made. It appears to me that it would be advisable to adopt a plan as soon as possible, and proceed to carry it out without delay, so that when the Capitol is completed the grounds may be in a con- dition corresponding with the extent and magnificence of the building. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 5, 1856: Congressional Globe, 34 — 1, p. 577.] PURCHASE OF LOTS IN THE DISTRICT. Mr. Brows submitted the following resolution; which was considered by unanimous consent, and agreed to: Resolved , That the Commissioner of Public Buildings be instructed to inquire and report to the Senate at what price the lots belonging to private individuals, within the following limits, can be purchased: commencing at the north gate of the Capitol and following Delaware avenue to its inter- section with B street north: along B street to Third street west: along Third street to its intersection with B street south: along said street to New Jersey avenue: and along said avenue to the south gate of the Capitol: and that in each case where he may think the sum asked is excessive he shall note the amount of such excess in his report. [House proceedings of Mar. 20, 1856: Congressional Globe, 34 — 1, p. 696. j EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL GROUNDS. Mr. Greenwood. I offer the following resolution by request. In doing so I do not commit myself on the subject: Resolved, That the Committee on Public Buildings be instructed to inquire into the expediency of purchasing square No. 575 and part of square No. 576, in conformity with the recommendation of the Secretary of the Interior: what amount of money would probably be required to purchase said pri- vate property, and make the necessary improvement of the grounds in consequence of the extension. Mr. Jones, of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, there is an investigation now going on by the Commissioner of Public Buildings and Grounds, under the direction of the Sen- ate, to ascertain what each one of the proprietors demand for their property on the squares referred to, west to Third street, and north to B street; and also, what the property is worth according to the value affixed to real estate in the city. The Commissioner, when he makes the investigation, will submit his report to us as well as to the Senate, for he is our officer as v r ell as that of that body. When the report is made it will be printed and laid before all the members. I state these facts for the information of the House, and not by way of objection to the gentleman’s reso- lution. Mr. Greenwood. I am obliged to the gentleman from Tennessee for the informa- tion which he has furnished the House. In my judgment there is no necessity for extending the purchase to the extent demanded. The object of the resolution is to make inquiries in regard to the propriety of purchasing said ground in the particular locality required for the extension of the Capitol grounds. The investigation can do no harm. The resolution was adopted. STEPS AND ENTRANCE TO WEST FRONT OF THE OLD CAPITOL. 1055 The Grounds. [Senate proceedings of July 17, 1856: Congressional Globe, 34 — 1, p. 1647.] EXTENSION OF CAPITOL GROUNDS. Mr. Brown. I desire to make a report from the Committee on the District of Columbia. A communication from the Commissioner of Public Buildings, relative to the purchase of certain lots adjacent to the Capitol grounds, and the prices at which they are held by the owners, was some time since referred to that committee with instructions to make certain inquiries. They have had the subject under con- sideration, and have instructed me to report that they will move an amendment for that purpose to the civil appropriation ’bill when it shall be under consideration. The amendment is rather long, and I present it now, so that it may be printed and laid on the desks of members. Mr. Pratt. I would suggest that it be referred to the Committee on Public Build- ings, if that course meets the approval of the chairman of the Committee on the District of Columbia. Mr. Brown. I have no objection to its taking that reference, so that it be printed. We had to take cognizance of the subject, inasmuch as it was referred to us. The amendment was referred to the Committee on Public Buildings, and ordered to be printed. [Senate proceedings of Feb. 25, 1857: Congressional Globe, 39 — 3, p. 866.] EXTENSION OF CAPITOL GROUNDS. Mr. Bayard. I am instructed by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds to report a bill (S. No. 626) enlarging the grounds surrounding the Capitol. I am also instructed to ask that the Senate will now take up the bill for consideration. There is an actual necessity that it should be passed at this session. I have been too unwell to report it at an earlier day. I do not think it will take fifteen minutes. The bill was read the first time, and ordered to a second reading. Mr. Johnson. I ask the Senator if the bill will give rise to discussion, or is it likely to pass without debate? Mr. Bayard. I should think it would not give rise to discussion. If it does give rise to a debate, I shall let it go over. It is necessary that it should be passed at this session. The bill was read the second time. Mr. Fessenden. I think that bill cannot possibly pass without further examina- tion. It had better lie over to give members a chance to understand it. Mr. Brodiiead. Let the bill be printed. Mr. Fessenden. A bill of this importance ought to be printed, so that we can see it. Mr. Bayard. The result will probably be to defeat the bill at this session. The plan has been agreed upon by the Committees on Public Buildings of both Houses. Mr. Fessenden. Then we are to take it without knowing anything about it on the judgment of the committees. We ought to know what expenditure is involved. Mr. Bayard. The expenditure, I suppose, will be about three hundred thousand dollars. Mr. Fessenden. Who can entertain the idea of passing a bill of that kind without the examination of anybody? Mr. Bayard. The honorable Senator must be aware that there must be a large expenditure to enlarge the public grounds. Nobody could anticipate anything else. The President pro tempore. The bill is before the Senate by general consent, and can be disposed of only by motion. 1056 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Fessenden. The Senator from Delaware said that, if it gave rise to discussion, he would consent to its postponement, and I suggest that it must necessarily give rise to discussion. Mr. Bayard. I should have reported this bill a month ago, but my health would not allow me to do so. We have had intercourse with the committee of the other House; it has been a matter of consideration at the last session as well as at this; and we have finally agreed on this as the only practicable plan which will properly enlarge the grounds surrounding the Capitol. I do n6t suppose that, if the bill be printed, Senators will be able to ascertain anything more, unless they take the trouble to inquire as to the particulars of the plan. I do not think they will be enlightened by the mere printing of the bill. The Secretary proceeded to read the bill at length. Mr. Johnson. It is impossible to hear a word of that bill; and I move to postpone it until to-morrow, and that it be printed. The motion was agreed to. [Senate proceedings of Feb. 27, 1857: Congressional Globe, 34 — 3, p. 920.] Mr. Bayard. I hope the Senate will, before taking up the Private Calendar, con- sider the bill from the Committee on Public Buildings in reference to the enlarge- ment of the public grounds adjoining the Capitol. It is absolutely necessary to be passed at this session. If not, the grounds cannot be completed until the lines are defined; and the heaviness of the embankment on the southern side will require an interval of two years before a railing can be placed there or the street paved. I think the bill will not create debate. I have had the plan put up in the lobby so that Senators may examine it. It has been agreed to by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds of both Houses. The bill is printed and on the table, and was postponed until yesterday, and ought to have come up, as I think, then. I hope it will be taken up now. It cannot require much time to dispose of it before you go on with the Private Calendar. If the bill passes to-day, I hope to have it passed in the House of Representatives, because it ought to be passed at this session. * * * Mr. Cass. I think the bill submitted by the honorable Senator from Delaware, with respect to the public grounds, is indispensable to be acted upon. I think nothing should delay the action of the Senate on that point. It is a matter of great public interest. Mr. Adams. Why did it not come here sooner? Mr. Cass. The season is so far advanced that if the bill be not passed immediately the work cannot be begun this year. Mr. Brodhead. There is no necessity for that bill. The public buildings have not yet been finished. I ask that the question may be put on my motion. Mr. Bayard. It is a bold assertion on the part of the Senator from Pennsylvania to say that there is no necessity for that bill when he knows nothing about it. There is a necessity. Though the public buildings are not completed, are you to let the public grounds lie in the condition in which they now are until after you finish the Capitol, which will probably be three years hence? It will take you two years, as I have stated, before the filling in which has to take place on the southern side, in order to give any approaches there, can settle so as to have it paved or a railing put around it. I think it is a matter of great public interest; I have no interest in it more than any Senator; but the honorable Senator from Pennsylvania is entirely mistaken when he says there is no necessity for the passage of that bill. It ought to be passed at this session; for if it does not pass at this session, of course it will not pass until towards the close of next session, and that year will have elapsed, so that CAPITOL, 1850, EAST FRONT. The Grounds. 1057 you cannot begin the filling up until the next year; and thus you lose two years; and then it will take two years for the ground to settle. You cannot fill it up until you have defined and extended the public grounds. I say there is a strong reason for taking up this bill now. It will require but a short time for its consideration, and then the private bills from the House of Representatives can come up in order. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 3, 1857: Congressional Globe, 34 — 3, p. 1082.] The Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, having under co ideratio the sundry civil bill for 1858 — Mr. Bayakd. I have one more amendment from the Committee on Public Build- ings. It is to add as new sections to the bill the following: And be it further enacted, That the public grounds surrounding the Capitol shall be enlarged, (according to the plan approved by the Committees on Public Buildings of the Senate and House of Representatives, respectively, which plan is hereby directed to be deposited in the custody of the Secretary of the Interior,) by extension between First street east and First street west, in the follow- ing manner: Northwardly to the south side of north B street, and southwardly to the north side of south B street, including, in addition to so much of the reservations, avenues, and streets as are necessary for such extension, the two squares designated on the plan of the city of Washington as Nos. 687 and 688, respectively; and to provide more safe and convenient approaches from Pennsylva- nia avenue into First street west and north B street, and from Maryland avenue into First street west and south B street, so much ground shall be taken from the southeast corner of square No. 575 as will be cut off by an arc of a circle of two hundred and thirty feet radius, w'hich shall touch Penn- sylvania avenue at a point in the front of said square one hundred and seventy-seven feet and six inches westward from the southeast angle thereof; and so much ground shall be taken from the northeast corner of square No. 576 as will be cut off by an arc of a circle of two hundred and thirty' feet radius, which shall touch Maryland avenue at a point in the front of said square one hundred and seventy-seven feet and six inches westward from the northeast angle thereof. Sec. — . And be itfurtlier enacted, That for carrying the preceding section into effect, and obtaining the title to such private property as may be necessary for the purpose, it shall be the duty of the Sec retary of the Interior to make application to the circuit court for the District of Columbia, which court is hereby authorized and required, upon such application, to appoint five disinterested and impartial commissioners, freeholders and residents in the said District, to make a just and equitable appraisement of t ne cash value of the several interest of each and every owner of the real estate and improvements thereon necessary to be taken for the public use, in accordance with the provisions of the preceding section. Before any action under such appointment, each of the said commissioners shall be sworn or affirmed by one of the judges of said district court, faithfully and impartially' to perform his duties. Each commissioner must view the premises of which the value is to be appraised, but a majority agreeing may make the appraisement of value. The said commissioners, or a majority of them, shall, within forty days after their appointment, make a report in writing to the said district court, under their hands, describing the separate premises of which the value is therein appraised, with sufficient certainty for the purpose of identity, and specifying the cash value as appraised by them of the interest of each owner in the premises so described, which report shall be filed and remain of record in the said court. The appraisement made as aforesaid shall be final and conclusive. Sec. — . And be itfurtlier enacted, That the fee-simple of all premises so appropriated for public use, of which an appraisement shall have been made in the report of the commissioners to be filed as aforesaid, shall, upon payment to the owner or owners respectively of the appraised value, or in case the said owner or owners refuse or neglect for fifteen days after the filing of the report to demand the same from the Secretary of the Interior, upon depositing the said appraised value in the said district court to the credit of such owner or owners respectively, shall be vested in the United States. And the Secretary of the Interior is hereby authorized and required to pay' to the several owner or owners respectively the appraised value of the several premises, as specified in the report of said commissioners, or pay into court by r deposit, as hereinbefore provided, the said appraised values, and the sum necessary for such purpose is hereby appropriated out of any moneys in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated. Sec. — . And be it further enacted, That the said’ commissioners are hereby authorized to employ a clerk to prepare and transcribe the said report so to be made by them, and the Secretary of the Inte- rior is hereby authorized to pay to each of said commissioners and the said clerk, for their respective services, such compensation as he may' deem just and reasonable, and the sum necessary' for that purpose is hereby appropriated. Sec. — . And be it further enacted, That upon the title to the property herein and hereby appropri- H. Rep. 646 67 1058 Documentary History of the Capitol. ated for public use becoming vested in the United States, as provided in the preceding sections, the Commissioner of Public Buildings is authorized to enter and take possession of the property so appro- priated without suit or process. Sec. — . And be it farther enacted, That the sum of $66,000 be, and the same is hereby, appropriated, out of any moneys in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, for filling up and leveling the public grounds around the Capitol as herein enlarged, and removing the buildings therefrom. I do not purpose to detain the Senate on this subject. I was anxious to pass this measure as a separate hill, but I found that impracticable, the Senate being engaged with other questions to which a preference was given. The enlargement of the public grounds around the Capitol is necessary to be Commenced at once. Their improvement afterwards must be the work of time. Until you definitely fix the boundaries, you cannot go on with the improvements. There is a great deal of fill- ing up to take place on the southern side, the embankment of which, according to the written communication of the engineer who has been employed by the Commis- sioner of Public Buildings in surveying the ground, will take from one to two years to settle before you can pretend to grade it, or fix a circular fence around it, or pro- ceed with any improvements whatever. I therefore think it very important that we should act at this session. Beyond all question, as the Capitol is now extended, (and we expect to get into the new wings next December,) the grounds are entirely inappropriate to it. The committees of both Houses have investigated all the plans before them, and have approved of this plan. The approval of the Committee on Public Buildings of the House of Representatives and of the Senate is indorsed on the plan as it is hung up in the lobby. I am aware there are differences of opinion as to the extension of the grounds in a westerly direction. My own judgment is entirely against that. It is corroborated by the committee of the House. It is corroborated by the architect who gave you the design of the Capitol. It is corroborated by the engineer, and indeed by all per- sons of taste and judgment in the matter. There is no projection of the building in a westerly direction, and there is no necessity for the enlargement of the grounds in that direction, and there would be difficulty in arranging and grading the public grounds, if you extended them westward. If this measure be not adopted now, the public grounds will remain in their present confused, disorganized state for years after the new Capitol will have been occupied by both Houses of Congress. Mr. Douglas. It is with great reluctance that I antagonize with my friend from Delaware on this question. I award to him, as chairman of the Committee on Pub- lic Buildings, full credit for the deep interest, the industry, the application, and the skill he has shown in the performance of the intricate and delicate duties of that position. He doubtless thinks he has done the best he can for the park about the Capitol; but I believe he has failed to secure for the public grounds that breadth on the lower side of the slope, the western slope facing the city, that we ought to have. If we must have a curtailment, I prefer to make the curtailment on the east, up on the hill, and enlarge on that side facing the city. I will go for the largest amount of ground for the park surrounding the public buildings. His plan does not make that breadth, north and south, fronting the city, which I think is essential for the pur- pose of making the public grounds what they ought to be. Anxious as I am to secure this large appropriation of land, I feel bound to resist the proposition of the commit- tee as falling short of what we ought to have. In other words, I am not willing to take in a less park than we shall have by taking the ground between C street north and C street south, and going westward as far as Second or Third street west. As to the enlargement eastward, I should not make much controversy whether you take in the blocks proposed to be included by the Committee on Public Buildings or not. I am not willing to limit the extension west, north, and south by a less limit than I have stated. Mr. Bayard. It is natural that there should be a difference of opinion in relation to the enlargement of the public grounds. The honorable Senator from Illinois may The Grounds. 1059 be right; I do not pretend to set np my own taste or judgment against his; but I think it would be a mistake to carry the grounds in the direction he mentions. In that opinion I am confirmed, as I said before, by the judgment of others more com- petent than myself to decide. We must, in matters of this kind, adopt some plan. Each individual Senator might vary somewhat in his particular taste; and after all, it seems to me you must consult others more skilled than yourselves. The Senator said that he was willing to abandon the proposition to extend the grounds on the eastern side of the Capitol, because he does not think extension in that direction necessary. Why, sir, you could not make any decent approach to the Capitol on that side, without taking in the blocks I propose. Without taking in these blocks, the approaches to the Capitol would certainly be very inelegant and inappro- priate. If you did not take them in, you will have the road-way running almost through the center of your grounds, and you will have a set of buildings on a triangle, or some irregular figure, immediately alongside the public grounds. The western ex- tension, I admit, is somewhat a matter of taste. The Capitol is not projected in that direction, as I remarked. There is no alteration which would require any departure from the original plan of the grounds, arising out of an increase in the size of the building on the western extremity. 1 can see no reason, therefore, for departing from the plan as originally adopted. It; strikes me that the grounds will be suffi- ciently ample for all purposes when you take in the blocks which the committee propose, with a view to obtain the necessary entrance on the western side, arising from the extension of the circular road-way that surrounds the Capitol. The Senate can determine the question as they see fit. All that I can say is, that it seems to me to be necessary that you should be accurate in defining your bounda- ries. If there is any other plan that the honorable Senator will submit, and the Senate prefer it, very well; it is not for me to contest their judgment. I can only say that the committees of both Houses have agreed, after examination, on the plan before you. Mr. Wilson. I have bestowed some little thought on this subject, and I am con- strained to differ from the committee, and to concur entirely with the suggestion made by the Senator from Illinois. A great fault in Washington, and in all Amer- ican cities, is that we have neglected to provide public grounds large enough. Look at your Treasury Building, your Patent Office, your Post Office Department; see how they are located. If grounds had been preserved around them, those buildings might have been ornaments to the city of Washington. Now, while you are spending millions of dollars in making a large and magnificent Capitol for the country, which we trust is to stand here while the Union endures — and that will endure as long as the sun and moon shall endure — I think we should have grounds large enough, and that they should be ornamented and beautified, so that all who visit the Capitol will see in these public grounds something to attract their admiration. Mr. Bayard. Allow me to suggest that the plan, as adopted by the committee, may be enlarged hereafter, if Congress think it proper to do so. I have stated that it is necessary that some extension should be ordered at once, because, unless it be done, the ground cannot be graded and filled up for two years to come. This will not interfere at all with a further extension at the next session of Congress, if a better plan can be devised. Why not let this proposition pass, and get a further extension hereafter, if it be desirable? Unless we have some definite boundary fixed by which we may know what work is to be done, the men cannot go on to fill up the ground. It is, therefore, important to act at once. Mr. Wilson,. I have but a word to say, as I know how precious time is. Why will not the Senate consent to go down as far as Third street, where the public grounds now go on one side of Pennsylvania avenue, and up to C street, where Trinity church stands, so as to take in the ground from there to the railroad station? All this space, ought, in my judgment, to be a part of the public grounds surrounding 1060 Documentary History of the Capitol. this Capitol; and I think, in starting, it is best to start right, and to take lots enough at once. One hundred thousand dollars, or two hundred thousand dollars, or three hundred thousand dollars, is of no consequence to the country in comparison with the importance of having the grounds large enough about this Capitol, and having those grounds beautified and adorned. Mr. Peatt called for the yeas and nays; and they were ordered. Mr. Douglas. I desire to offer an amendment to the amendment. I wish to have the grounds enlarged northward and southward to C street south, and C street north, and westward to Third street; and I am willing to leave the curve lines to be fixed by the Commissioner of Public Buildings. The President pro tempore. Does the Senator from Illinois propose his amendment by direction of a committee? Mr. Douglas. No, sir; I propose to amend the amendment of the Senator from Delaware as to the boundaries. He proposes to enlarge the grounds by a given boundary. My proposition is to amend his boundary. Mr. Houston. I do not know that I have any particular objection to this amend- ment; I do not care how magnificent or extensive the design may be; but there is one principle in the amendment of the Senator from Delaware to which I object. By it, the Government assumes the whole power and privilege of determining what the rights of the citizens are. They have no option, no election in the matter. The amendment of the Senator from Delaware gives the circuit court of this district power to appoint five commissioners for the purpose of determining the value of this property. The judge can appoint them from any part of the District of Columbia he may think proper — persons acquainted or unacquainted with the value of the prop- erty involved in this bill of condemnation. The action of the commissioners is to be final, or rendered so by the fiat of the Secretary of the Interior, and the citizens are liable to be turned out of house and home within forty days after the judgment is rendered. They have no voice in the selection of the arbitrators who are to value their property. It is to be taken from them and confiscated, or appropriated to Government uses without their consent. It seems to me that in time of profound peace, when no great emergency exists, this would be an act of violence and usurpa- tion towards them which the necessities of the Government do not sanction. If the citizens were allowed any election — if they were to be heard by any representative or persons selected by themselves, there would be some fairness in it. No man knows so well the value of his property to himself as the owner. What may appear very indif- ferent to persons not immediately connected with it, to him is inestimable. He may have attachments to it. It may be his home, or his place of business, of great con- sequence to him. He may have in his mind designs of improvement. Here you propose to deprive men of their property, and to pay them what the valuators may say it is worth, without their having any voice in the matter. I have before me a memorial from one of the property-holders concerned, and I ask that it may be read. The Secretary read as follows: To the honorable the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States: The memorial of Samuel 0. Busey, of the city of Washington, showeth: That he resides on lot 23, square 688, in the city of Washington; owns, has built upon, and improved the same for his dwelling and place of business, as a practicing physician; his dwelling fronts on First street east, between A and B streets south. His business locality for several years last past has been fixed, is well known, and designed to be permanent. That a bill entitled ‘ ‘ A bill to enlarge the Capitol grounds surrounding the Capitol ” is now pending in the Senate, the object of which is to deprive this memorialist (in common with the other owners of the property in said square) of his said property, to break up his business locality, and to remove him from his home against his will, and, as he respectfully conceives, without any provision by law under which he shall receive just compensation therefor. The Grounds. 1061 That the only provision in that bill for compensation to the property-holders in said square is that they shall he paid the present cash value of their interest in the lands and improvements, to be assessed and ascertained by five commissioners, to be appointed by the circuit court, out of the free-holders and residents of the District. That while your memorialist does not desire to raise any question as to such legis- lation by Congress he submits that every involuntary transfer of real estate should be guarded with extreme care; and whenever it is designed for the public use, provision should be made by law for the amplest means and opportunity to the party whose property is to be taken, to be heard by counsel and his witnesses; that the jury or commissioners should come from the vicinage; and that they should not be confined to the actual cash value of what the property would bring in the market, but should be allowed to estimate, also, the incidents pertaining to the property as improved and cultivated for the purposes of business or residence. In each of these several particulars, the said bill is essentially defective. The commission should be drawn by lot, or selected equally by the Government and the party, with power to them to choose another, or a jury should be summoned in the usual mode and drawn by lot from a full panel of twenty-four; the commis- sioners or jury should be taken from the city of Washington alone, not from the county at large; ample notice should be given of the meeting of the commissioners, or of the jury, and the parties should be heard by counsel, with the right to examine witnesses; the inquisition should beheld and taken openly; the damages should not be limited to an actuul cash value, but, as in almost every case of condemnation of private land for public use, they should be such as to embrace and cover the increased value of the land to the proprietor according to its uses and importance to him; and your memoralist prays that the said bill may be amended accordingly, in order that some approach may be made to a fair, just, and reasonable estimate of the damages which will result to himself as well as others by the contemplated appropriation of his and their property to the public use. All of which is respectfully submitted. Samuel C. Busey. Mr. Houston. I have no doubt that the committee intended to do what seemed to them fair and reasonable; but I find here a proposition that if the freeholders who are to be dispossessed do not actually receive the money within fifteen days, it is to be the duty of the Secretary of the Interior to make a title to the United States. I see also, “upon the property herein and hereby appropriated for public use becoming vested in the United States, as provided in the third section of this act, the Commis- sioner of Public Buildings is hereby authorized to enter and take possession of the property so appropriated without suit or process.” The Commissioner of Public Buildings is to have power to turn men, women, and children into the street heels over head, and throw their furniture with them if his humanity may require that sacrifice of generosity on his part. They have no alter- native, no appeal. They are given no opportunity to be heard. The commissioners are not to be drawn by lot from a body of twelve or fifteen or twenty-four men, but they are to be specially appointed. I think I have not witnessed on any occasion in this body a more direct attack on the rights and liberties of citizens than is con- tained in this proposition. The Government, I know, is all powerful, and Congress has power to invest others with authority sufficient to oppress any citizen. In mak- ing the grand and magnificent extension, prompted, I presume, by the overflowing condition of the Treasury, it seems to me we should proceed with some caution, and should take some care to protect the citizen against aggression or oppression. I am not disposed to occujjy the time of the Senate. Senators having had their attention called to this matter, will be enabled to decide it. I trust that until some investigation shall be had, until Senators shall have had an opportunity of reflecting upon the subject and looking into it, no action will be taken upon this proposition. If you will look, sir, at the blocks of marble now lying about the Capitol, you will 1 062 Documentary History of the Capitol. see that they would keep two thousand men employed until the next meeting of Congress. Property does not advance so very rapidly in price. The Treasury is still accumulating. There is no danger of exhaustion. We need not fear that it will very soon be depleted. I think no harm can result from postponing this measure for a year. Such a delay will endanger neither the Government nor the citizen, but will afford the committee an opportunity of revising their action so as to make it more conformable to what the citizens ought to expect, and have a right to claim, of this body, than if we were now, on the spur of the occasion, to decide on a subject involving the rights of so many. Mr. Seward. I think we are all obliged to the honorable Senator from Texas, or ought to feel ourselves so, for having called our attention to this particular feature of the proposition: that the commissioners for valuing the property to be taken for this improvement are all directed to be appointed by the circuit court of the District of Columbia, without the intervention of the parties interested, and, practically, with- out an opportunity on their part to participate in the appointment. I think that is a good objection to the details of the amendment of the Senator from Delaware, and my colleagu is engaged in preparing a modification to remove that difficulty. Mr. Rusk. I think the honorable Senator from Delaware, after the manifestations of the Senate, will withdraw the amendment. It strikes me that it is too large a subject for us to act. on now. I think there is clearly a disposition in the Senate against it, and I hope it will be withdrawn. The President pro tempore. There is an amendment offered by the Senator from Illinois to the amendment of the Senator from Delaware. Mr. Seward. I do not offer now the amendment which I suggested, but I submit another one in this shape: And no person holding an office or place under the Government of the United States shall be such commissioner. This, it seems to me, will remove one of the objections which have been very prop- erly and justly brought to the notice of the Senate by the honorable Senator from Texas. I have been a witness to the laborious and praiseworthy efforts of the hon- orable Senator from Delaware to engage the attention of the Senate to this subject at an earlier day in the session, and I have been a witness to his entire failure. If it should be postponed until the next session of Congress, I expect to be a witness to precisely the same efforts on his part, and the same delays, with the same result. I have one word further to add which is in favor of the amendment of the hon- orable Senator from Illinois. From the hour when it was discovered to be necessary to enlarge these grounds until the time the enlargement shall be reduced into pos- session, the property to be added began to advance, is advancing, and will continue to advance. You will buy the property cheaper to-day by twenty -five per cent, than you will at the end of the next session. Mr. Rusk. In my judgment this is altogether too large a subject to be acted on now. In addition to the objections mentioned by my colleague, I see another. Who is to determine the value of this property? What amount of temptation is to be thrown in the way? Where is the check in this whole proposition from begin- ning to end? We have no time now to investigate it. One gentleman gets up and suggests B street as a proper boundary ; another says C street, and presents us with a very large proposition. I am unwilling to vote for these liberal ideas of extension until we have a survey of the ground, that I may know something about it. The honorable Senator from Illinois has the advantage of me in that respect. How much his proposition covers I do not know. Mr. Douglas. Only enough for a handsome park. Mr. Rusk. But there are a great many lots to be bought by the Government, and a vast amount of money is to come out of the Treasury for their condemnation. There should be great, guards. I think the danger is all on one side. I do not think The Grounds. 1063 there is any danger of people having property taken from them for a very small price, but the danger is that a very large price will be given. The President pro tempore. The amendment of the Senator from I llinois is to strike out all of the first section of the amendment of the Senator from Delaware, after the word “enacted,” and insert: That the public grounds surrounding the Capitol shall be enlarged by extending them northward and southward to C street north and C street south, eastward to First street east, and westward to Third street west, the lines of extension to be drawn either by the lines of the streets herein men- tioned, or by curved lines not interfering with the prescribed widths of those streets, as the President of the United States may direct. Mr Benjamin called for the yeas and nays; and they were ordered. Mr. Hunter. 1 shall vote for the amendment to the amendment, and then against the whole. I want the subject postponed. Mr. Bayard. As I stated before, I am perfectly indifferent myself as to the extent of the enlargement of the public grounds; but I cannot see the necessity for the exten- sion proposed by the honorable Senator from Illinois. The reason assigned by the honorable Senator from Massachusetts has hardly an application here, because the botanic garden is part of the public grounds, and must always remain open; and that composes about one half of the ground you will take in on the west side, under the proposition of the Senator from Illinois. The extension which he proposes seems to me to be greater than is requisite for the purposes of the Capitol. I do not know that I can carry in my mind the plan of the city so as to realize exactly how far his amendment will extend the grounds. My impression is, that it will lie a useless expenditure, and it is right that the Senate should be aware of the probable cost. The ground recommended by the committee to be included in the public grounds, which is now the property of private citizens, is assessed, with its improvements, at $166,000. I suppose the valuation will probably be $300,000. If we take in grounds on the west side, as proposed by the Senator from Illinois, I presume the cost will be $800,000, probably $1,000,000. I shall not object, if it be the sense of the Senate that it is necessary to surround the Capitol with such an extent of ground; but it is right that the Senate should know exactly what will be the cost. I had hoped that the Senator from Illinois would suffer the plan of the committee to be adopted. It will not interfere with the further extension of the grounds at the next session, when there will be time more deliberately to discuss the whole question than there is now. His plan includes all that the committee recommend, and more. If he will allow the plan of the committee to be adopted as it stands, I think there would be a greater probability of action at the present session, as the committees of each House have agreed to it. I fear that his amendment, if adopted, will cause the failure of the entire proposition. Mr. Wade. It appears to me that if we are to act on this subject at all, there is no other way than to take the well-considered plan of the committee. It is a subject of such a nature that no man can rise here and reduce a proposition for enlargement within any limits that can be understood. I shall cast my vote relying on the judg- ment of the committee, who have had the matter under consideration, who under- stood the ground, who have had maps and plans of it drawn so that they could understand it. If we do not take their proposition at this stage of the session, I am sure the result will be to postpone the question to another time. It is a question of importance. It seems to me that if it is necessary to do anything, we ought to adopt at once the plan of the committee, which is not so large as some gentlemen suppose it to be, and at some future period we may extend it, if it be deemed proper. I hope we shall now either take the 'plan of the committee or postpone the whole subject. Mr. Pugh. I suggest, as we have but five minutes before the hour arrives for the recess, that we postpone this bill informally, and resume its consideration when the Senate reassembles, and by that time Senators can look into the amendment and understand it better. 1064 Documentary History of the Capitol. The President pro tempore. That course will be taken if there be no objection. The Chair hears none. * * * The President pro tempore. The bill (PI. R. No. 615) making appropriations for certain civil expenses of the Government for the year ending 30th of June, 1858, is now before the Senate as in Committee of the Whole, the pending question being on the amendment offered by the Senator from Illinois to the amendment offered by the Senator from Delaware, on which the yeas and nays have been ordered. Is the Senate ready for the question? Mr. Bayard. I feel too unwell to discuss the question, but I desire to say a few words lief ore the vote is taken. I have looked at these grounds since the recess took place, and I am perfectly satisfied, from my knowledge of what the cost will be of the ground proposed to be bought by the committee, that the Senate must calculate upon the expenditure of $1,500,000 to obtain the property within the bounds desig- nated in the amendment of the honorable Senator from Illinois. It proposes to extend the grounds down to Third street, and C street north, and south on one side. Taking the number of buildings comprised within those bounds into account it can- not be estimated at less, and I should not be surprised if it went up to $2,000,000. I tuink those bounds are unnecessarily large for the Capitol grounds, and therefore an extravagance. If we have plenty of money in the Treasury I do not think we are justified in an extravagant expenditure of it. The grounds upon which the committees of both Houses agreed will be enlarged relatively to the new buildings; they will, in fact, be more extensive for the new relatively than for the old building, and in my judgment quite as much as is neces- sary for the present. At all events, if I am in error in that, this enlargement can take place at a subsequent session of Congress when gentlemen can give to it more consideration. The committee might have agreed to go as far as the amendment to the amendment, or, if not so far, further than they have gone, but they were satis- fied that it would be lost in the House of Representatives. I am perfectly satisfied that if we adopt the amendment of the honorable Senator from Illinois, the whole amendment will be lost in the House of Representatives, because the committee of that House after consultation have agreed upon the amendment as it stands, and the quantity of ground as designated in it. Certainly, at this period of the session, with the committee of that House opposed to the alteration, it cannot be carried. If the amendment of the Senator be adopted, I shall vote against the whole amendment, and move to substitute one for merely filling up the ground, leaving the question of the extension of the public grounds to be decided afterwards. Mr. Hunter. I suggest to the Senator that he had better withdraw the original amendment. Mr. Bayard. I would rather have the vote taken on it. Mr. Fessenden. Like some other Senators, Mr. President, my attention was not particularly directed to this matter before the recess. Since that time I have taken occasion to look at the premises; and I think no person can look at them, and look at the present buildings as they stand, and consider what they are to be, and not come to the conclusion that the present plan of the committee does not give ground enough, relatively, for the size of the building. To my mind it is very clear that, at one time or another, we shall be obliged to enlarge the grounds very much; and the question raised now is, when is the best time to do it — whether to make an arrange- ment now to take the property in the mode proposed, if we take it in that mode, or to take a portion of it, and at some future period take all the rest we may want. Now, sir, that we shall be obliged to go to a larger extent on each side of the Capi- tol, and take in some portion of those grounds, is very manifest. In the first place, to a person walking up in this direction, when he arrives at' the bottom of the grounds the Capitol cannot be seen. It makes no show, or only a small portion of it does so. It does not present the appearance that a building that has cost so much ought to do. Considering for one single moment what the feeling of this country 1065 The Grounds. is — that if we are not we are to be the greatest nation on the face of the earth, it would seem very singular to allow the building up of this city to go on, and be con- tracted in grounds as we are at present, or must be if what the committee propose be adopted, and leave it to the future to clear the buildings surrounding the Capitol at a very much greater cost than would be necessary at the present time. If we Sweep. Shoots. Observations. 1 White elm / n 5 10 51 6 47 0 3 1 Ulmus Americanus. Upright, 5 feet; lateral, 8 feet. 2 do 5 11 66 6 42 0 1 3 Ulmus Americanus. Upright, 8 feet; lateral, 12 feet. 3 do 6 5 61 0 35 0 1 11 Upright, 10 feet; lateral, 14 feet. 4 English elm 6 9 60 0 42 0 2 5 Ulmus campestris. Upright, 8 feet; lat- eral, 12 feet. 5 ■Wahoo elm 4 2 42 0 48 0 2 9 Ulmus alata , B. G. Upright, 15 feet; lateral, 13 feet. 6 White oak 4 7 51 0 27 0 i 3 Quercus alba. Upright, 9 feet; lateral, 10 feet. 7 Willow oak 3 4 40 0 26 0 i 8 Quercus phellos, trimmed to a pole. Up- right, 18 feet; lateral, 16 feet. 8 Pin oak 3 7 35 0 30 0 i 3 Quercus palustris, B. G. Upright, 10 feet; lateral, 10 feet. 9 Roval oak 3 9 28 0 36 0 2 6 Quercus robur, B. G. Lateral, 14 feet. 10 Sugar maple 2 7 38 0 32 0 0 10 Acer saccharinum. Upright, 6 feet; lat- eral, 7 feet 6 inches. 11 do 3 2 35 0 27 0 1 0 Acer saccharinum. L T pright, 13 feet; lat- eral, 8 feet. 12 Norway maple 3 1 31 0 33 0 0 11 Acer platanoides. Upright, 12 feet; lat- eral, 10 feet. 13 Scarlet maple 3 1 34 0 36 0 1 4 Acer rubrum. 14 Silver maple 4 3 48 0 39 0 2 6 Acer dasycarpum. Upright, 18 feet; lat- eral, 19 feet. 15 Box elder 3 11 35 0 42 0 2 5 Negundo aceroides. B. G. Upright, 19 feet; lateral, 13 feet. 16 American beech 2 3 30 0 24 0 i 8 Fagus ferruginea. LTpright, 16 feet; lat- eral, 6 feet. 17 Plane 3 10 40 0 38 0 3 2 Platanus orientalis. B. G. Upright, 18 feet; lateral, 14 feet. 18 Linden 4 4 42 0 42 0 1 i Tilia Europea. Upright, 5 feet; lateral, 7 feet. 19 White ash 4 9 48 0 32 0 1 9 Fraxinus americana . 20 Madeira nut 4 1 32 0 33 0 1 7 Juglans regia. B. G. Upright, 6 feet: lateral, 6 feet. 21 American holly 2 4 17 6 18 0 0 8 Ilex opaca. Heavily fruiting. 22 Horse chestnut 5 2 36 0 36 0 0 7 JEsculus Hypocastaneum. This was one of two horse chestnuts near together. That originally the larger was not moved, and is now the smaller in girth, height, and breadth. The Grounds. 1199 B. No. Common name. Girth. Height. Sweep. Shoots. Observations , // , // , // , n 1 American elm 3 4 36 0 24 0 2 — do 2 10 24 0 30 0 2 10 Ulmus campestris. 3 ( !ork elm 2 9 29 6 26 0 1 7 Ulmus suberosa. 4 9 1 22 0 24 0 feet. 5 Over-cup oak 1 8 25 0 15 0 0 8 Quercus macrocarpa. 6 Chestnut oak 1 4 26 0 21 0 1 s Quercus Prinus. 7 Spanish oak 2 0 27 0 15 0 1 1 Quercus f aleata. 8 Willow oak 3 1 36 0 36 0 1 6 Quercus Phellos. 9 do 2 5 27 0 25 0 1 6 Do. 10 Royal oak 3 4 28 0 36 0 2 0 Quercus robur. 11 do 2 5 28 0 27 0 1 3 Do. 12 Scarlet maple 2 1 27 0 24 0 1 10 Acer rubrum. 13 Field maple 9 19 0 18 0 14 do . . .' 3 10 24 0 24 0 1 4 Do. 15 White ash 2 8 24 0 18 0 1 3 Fraxinus Americana. 16 do 1 11 23 0 21 0 1 0 Do. 17 Coffee tree 1 5 25 0 24 0 1 8 Gymnocladus Canadensis. 18 Oriental plane 3 5 43 0 41 0 2 3 Platanus orientalis. Pennsylvania cir- cie; imported, 1877. 19 do 3 3 42 0 40 0 2 3 Platanus orientalis. Upright, 30 feet. 20 Tulip 2 1 26 0 21 0 i 7 IAriodendron tulipefera. 21 Yellow wood i 0 20 0 24 0 2 0 Cladrastris tinctoria. 22 American chestnut. . . l 8 21 0 17 5 1 10 Castanea vesca. Upright, 16 feet: wild. 23 Shingle oak 2 5 17 6 13 0 8 6 Quercus imbricata. Damaged plant; re- covering. 24 Norway maple 3 7 42 0 35 0 1 0 Acer platanoides. Upright, 8 feet; lat- eral. 4 feet; 1876. 25 Sycamore maple 2 11 38 0 27 0 0 6 Acer Pseudoplatanus. Upright, 6 feet; lateral, 4 feet; 1876. 26 Sugar maple 3 7 36 0 41 0 0 10 Acer sacharinum. Upright, 6 feet; lat- eral, 6 feet 6 inches. 27 Buckeye 4 10 44 6 33 0 1 11 JEsculus glabra. Upright, 4 feet; lateral, 6 feet; 1876. 28 Turkey oak 1 9 18 0 14 0 1 4 Quercus Cerris. 29 American hornbeam . 1 6 20 0 14 0 2 9 Carp-inns Betulus. 30 1 2 17 0 9 0 growth from ground. 31 Oleaster 2 9 22 0 24 0 0 4 Eleagnus hortensis. 32 8i 10 0 6 o 33 Christ’s thorn i 3* 13 0 15 0 2 3 Zizyphius vulgaris. Loaded with fruit. 34 Cucumber i 2 15 0 10 0 i 5 Magnolia acuminata. Planting height, 4 feet. 35 Yellow cucumber i 7 16 0 15 0 l 5 Magnolia cordata. Planting height, 3 feet. 36 Great-leaved eucum- 10 13 0 7 0 l 5 Magnolia macrophylla. ber. 37 Sassafras i 6 17 0 15 0 l 8 Sassafras officinalis, wild. 38 1 20 0 30 0 39 Catalpa 2 0 19 0 24 0 0 10 Catalpa bignonoides. 10 Golden catalpa 2 8 23 0 24 0 2 0 Catalpa bignonoides; Var. aurea. 41 Japan catalpa 2 4 29 0 22 0 3 0 Catalpa Kcempferi. 42 Cedrella 1 7 27 6 6 0 4 0 Cedrella Sinensis. Lower laterals re- moved. 43 Dogwood i 6 12 0 15 0 8 0 Cornus florida. Stump; wild. 44 Redbud 2 2 14 0 24 0 1 8 Circis Canandensis. 1876. 45 Sweet gum i 9 23 0 17 0 1 3 Liquidamber styraciflua. Wild; upright, 19 feet; 1876. 46 Lime 2 2 22 0 21 0 1 1 Tilia Europcea. 47 Scotch birch 1 7 28 0 18 0 15 0 Betula alba. Upright, 24 feet; 1878. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-six, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1885. (Stats, at Large, v. 23, 497.)] For improving the Capitol Ground s. — For continuing the work of the improvement of the Capitol Grounds, and for care of the grounds, including the pay to landscape architect, one clerk, and wages of mechanics, gardeners, and workmen, thirty-five thousand dollars. 1200 Documentary History of the Capitol. [From an “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and ninety-two, and for other purposes,’’ approved Mar. 3, 1891. (Stats, at Large, v. 26, 970.)] Pavement, Capitol Grounds . — For taking up and resurfacing the asphaltic concrete pavement at the eastern front of the Capitol, forty thousand dollars. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, July 1, 1897. (55 — 2, House Doc. No. 5, Misc. Repts., p. 538.)] The general plan for the extension of electric lighting to the Capitol Grounds pro- posed to substitute for unsatisfactory gas illumination, arc lights, 100 in number, to be operated from the dynamos and engines within the Capitol building. This prop- osition has been carried to a most successful issue by an extensive conduit system radiating from the building to the various points to be illuminated. A contract was entered into with J. P. Hall, of New York City, who executed the work in accord- ance with plans prepared specially for the purpose in this office. This contractor also successfully carried out the work set forth in additional plans for the ceilings over the two halls of Congress, contracts for which were awarded him. In addition to this, the force of electricians in the employ of this office installed 38 arc lamps not provided for in the original plans, but which were placed about the terrace and grand stairways and at the four principal entrances at the east and west fronts of the Capitol for increased illumination and better policing of the building. The illumination of the Capitol Grounds is now excellent. [From the annual report of Cornelius N. Bliss, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 16, 1897. (55 — 2, House Doc. No. 5, p. cii.)] In the Capitol Grounds an extensive conduit system has been laid, carrying the electric service to various points on the roadways and footwalks, and 138 arc lamps, all operated from the electric machinery within the Capitol building, have been in- stalled and put in service. The Architect states that the illumination of the grounds is now excellent and that, better protection to pedestrians has been given by this service. New machinery has been added to that already in service to meet the demands of this extension. VI. THE TERRACES. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 3, 1875: Congressional Record, 43 — 2, p. 2141.] SUNDRY CIVIL APPROPRIATION BILL. The Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, resumed the consideration of the bill (H. R. No. 4729) making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1876, and for other purposes. Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. I offer an amendment to insert after line 1008: For terrace, with vaults, on west face and north and south returns to porticos, and solid wall for the remainder, according to plans and under the direction of Fred. Law Olmsted, to be expended by the Architect of the Capitol, $300,000, which sum shall be available from and after the passage of this act. Several Senators. All right! Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. 1 will not say a word if all are in favor of it. A division was called for. Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. This is for the completion of the western front of the Capitol. It is in accordance with the plans that have been seen by most Senators and I think approved by every one who has seen them, made by Mr. Olmsted. It is to have a terrace extended on the western front and the ends, so that it will be fifty feet wide and it will cover vaults to the number of fifty-six, forty feet in length and ten feet wide, that will answer for the storage of half a million documents, which room is very urgently needed both by Congress and by the Departments that have accumulated large amounts of documents which need to be stowed away. It will require something more than another year to finish it. This will finish the two ends and the front as far as the center part, leaving the center part to be appropriated for hereafter. I trust that, having increased the appropriations for public buildings in the various cities, we shall be willing to take this small amount comparatively to what we appro- priated for Cincinnati, for Chicago, for Saint Louis, for Philadelphia, and for New York, for the final completion of this Capitol. Mr. Thurman. I wish to put a question to the Senator from Vermont. This appro- priation that is suggested, if I understood the reading of the amendment, is $300,000? Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. It is. Mr. Thurman. To improve the grounds on the west end of the Capitol, in pursu- ance of the plan of Mr. Olmsted. Am I right in that? Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. It is for the terrace. Mr Thurman. Three hundred thousand dollars for the terrace? Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. Yes, sir. Mr. Thurman. For the terrace alone? Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. And vaults; and I will say that if we appropriated a proper sum merely for the taking care of these documents it would require a building that would cost a larger amount than all that I ask for at the present time. This has been recommended unanimously by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. I have never yet seen a republican or democrat of either House that did not approve of the plan. I have never seen an architect that did not approve of the plan. I H. Rep. 640 76 120 L 1202 Documentary History of the Capitol. have no doubt that the Committee on Appropriations would have brought it back here included in this bill if we had passed the tax and tariff bill before they con- sidered the subject. Air. Thuruav. If t hese $300,000 were to be expended in beautifying the Capitol or the grounds on the west of the Capitol Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. Perfectly plain work. Mr. Thurman. Then there might be something in this in the eye of an artist; but if we are to expend $300,000 to make some damp vaults to stow away old documents to feed rats, I think we shall be throwing away our money just about as foolishly as any one can possibly suppose. Mr. Edmunds. Has the Senator seen the design as it is prepared by Mr. Olmsted? Mr. Thurman. No, sir, I have not seen it, and I do not like to vote in the dark on what I have not seen. Mr. Edmunds. I think that if the Senator had seen the design he would have been satisfied that it is a very great improvement in the appearance of the Capitol, to say nothing of the vaults. Mr. Thurman. But I did not understand the Senator’s colleague as advocating it on the ground of improving the appearance, but he wants to save these old docu- ments. Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. No, Mr. President; I had supposed that the Senator from Ohio had seen the plan and understood it, and that he knew that in addition to being a great improvement to the Capitol it would also serve the useful purpose which I suggested. Mr. Thurman. The useful purpose of putting these old documents where the moth doth corrupt and where the rats do eat and thrive. [Laughter.] Mr. Morrill, of Vermont. The Senator cannot be unaware that at the Treasury Department the corridors are completely filled with documents that must be pre- served for generations, and there must be room made for them. They have got to be supplied with some place. We can also take all the inferior copyright books, the duplicate books, and stow those away. Mr. Thurman. When the proper time comes I shall endeavor to show that, what has been said by other Senators is strictly correct, that you must have some other place to keep the books; but a cellar or a vault is not the place to keep books. At all events, when you are taxing the people thirty-odd millions, now, in the present condition of the country, I am not willing to vote $100,000 to make a cellar to keep old books in. The Vice-President. The question is on the amendment of the Senator from Vermont. Mr. Stevenson. I ask for the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered. Mr. Cameron. I would like to say a word before the yeas and nays are taken. Happening to be a member of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, I have become acquainted with this subject. The witticisms of the Senator from Ohio have entirely changed the current on this question here. He has made the Senate believe that this is a mere convenience for keeping documents. It is no such thing. It is an improvement necessary for the protection of the Capitol, to add to its beauty. This Capitol cannot be perfect, as the architect says and as the experi- enced gentleman who is employed to take care of the grounds says, without this expenditure. The making of the vaults is not merely to take care of the documents. The vaults will be there and if by those in authority it is deemed necessary to put documents there they will be placed there; but if there was not a document to be cared for this expenditure is necessary to make this Capitol perfect, and I am sure that every Senator feels an interest in the beauty, the strength, and the perpetuity, I was going to say, of this Capitol, for I trust it will live as long as time shall last. The Terraces. 1203 Mr. Allison. I only desire to say one word in reference to this proposition. The Committee on the Library have had under consideration the extension of the west front some thirty-four feet. Now, as I understand it, this proposition of a terrace will interfere with that question of the extension of the west front. I think we ought not to engage in the construction of this terrace until we have settled finally the question of improving the Capitol on the west front. Therefore I hope the amendment will not be adopted. Mr. Morton. To test this question I move to lay the amendment on the table. The motion was agreed to; there being on a division — ayes 23, noes 18. From the annual report of Carl Schurz, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 1, 1877. (45 — 2, House Ex. Doe. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 1, p. lii.)] In relation to the proposed new terrace and stairways of approach at the western front, the Architect says: “The rustic terraces at that front have a plain and unfinished appearance, and show clearly the necessity of the proposed terrace-wall in order to connect the grounds with the building in a harmonious manner.” Mr. Olmsted says, on this subject, “that attention should be called to the great defects of the present arrangement for entering the Capitol from the west. The present stairway was designed with reference to the original small central building, and was architecturally inadequate even for that. It now seems as the only direct means of access to the Capital from all the western part of the city, and is not only awkward and mean in appearance, but exceedingly inconvenient, and rapidly approaching a dangerous condition. “The obliteration of the central walk and the completion of the entrance to the approach of the Capitol from Pennsylvania avenue which is designated on a scale corresponding to that of the enlarged Capitol, will make the defects more conspicuous. “The immediate construction of the new stairways upon the plan favorably reported by the Committees on Public Buildings and Grounds in 1875, is much to be desire L” [Senate proceedings of June 17, 1878: Congressional Record, 45 — 2, p.s(729.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1879 — The Secretary resumed the reading of the bill, and read the following clause, from lines 1467 to 1471: Improving Capitol grounds: For improving Capitol grounds and for paving Pennsylvania avenue around the Naval Monument, $100,000; to be expended equally and judiciously in the improvement of the approaches to both the Senate and House wings of the Capitol building. Mr. Morrill. I offer the following amendment, to come in after the word “monu- ment,” in line 1469: And for the construction of the terrace and grand stairways at the western front of the Capitol, to be erected in accordance with the plans of Fred. Law Olmsted, now on file in the room of the Com- mittee on Public Buildings and Grounds of the Seriate, $150,000. And it shall be the duty of the Architect of the Capitol to cause the grounds at the south of the Capitol to be improved in a similar and equal manner with those at the north of the Capitol. I will merely add that this amendment would increase the appropriation $50,000. While we are making appropriations for Saint Louis and a half dozen different pub- lic buildings which are increased a hundred thousand dollars each, I merely desire to have this system completed. I hope it will be completed during my service here. Mr. Conkling. Will the Senator state where these steps are to be? Mr. Morrill. On the west front. Mr. Conkling. Of the center building? 1204 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Morrill. Yes, sir. Mr. Beck. I desire that we should go through with the amendments of the com- mittee first, because I hope to come back to these items after a while, and I shall move to strike out this paragraph altogether. Mr. Windom. I was going to ask the Senator from Vermont not to press the amendment at this time. Mr. Beck. I hope he will not press it. The President pro tempore. The amendments of the Committee on Appropriations have priority. Mr. Morrill. I withdraw my amendment. The President pro tempore. The amendment is withdrawn for the present. [Senate proceedings of June 18, 1878: Congressional Record, 45 — 2, p. 4800.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1879 — Mr. Beck. I move to amend the bill by striking out, on page 60, from line 1467 to line 1471, inclusive. The Secretary read the amendment proposed to be stricken out, as follows: Improving Capitol grounds: For improving Capitol grounds and for paving Pennsylvania avenue around the Naval Monument, $100,000; to be expended equally and judiciously in the improvement of the approaches to both the Senate and House wings of the Capitol building. Mr. Beck. I desire to say a few words about that. We have given, as Senators will observe by looking over the bill, $55,000 for work on the Capitol and for general repairs thereof; we have given $100,000 for the repairs of the Interior Department. We have ordered a new building to be erected in this city for the purpose of carrying on the work of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. We are compelled to expend several millions on the new War, Navy, and State Department building. We are compelled in carrying on the public works all over the country to add largely to the appropriations with which this bill is loaded down. Here is an item of $100,000 more to tear up, under pretense of improvement, the whole of the west front of the Capitol grounds, to adorn them with stairways I suppose, which will cost before we get through over a million dollars, probably two. It was proposed by the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds yesterday to add $50,000 to this item, and make it $150,000 instead of $100,000, which is the amount the House sent to us. There is nothing that requires us now to do this, no public necessity that I know of that requires us to tear up the grounds at the west side of the Capitol and change the entrance at a time of exhausted finances like this. If we begin this work now we shall have to spend for five or six consecutive years two, three, or four hundred thousand dollars annually to ornament according to the design of somebody who thinks it is going to make him immortal to have his name in the grand plan. We have now a couple of Dutch spittoons stand- ing out on the east front of the Capitol, costing forty or fifty thousand dollars, intended, I believe, for fountains. We now find it will require two or three hundred thousand dollars to furnish them with water and fix them up. The economical House is proposing to spend $100,000 on this item, and the Senate Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds desire to make it $150,000, to disfigure for years the whole western front, so as to make what they call the right kind of approaches from that grand Naval Monument on the avenue which I spoke of a little while ago. If there is anything in this country that can wait without detriment to the public service, it is this disturbing of the public grounds around the Capitol. I move to strike out these five lines because there is no doubt after all we have done around this Capitol that it is in tolerably good condition at present; that is The Terraces. 1205 obvious; and if we ever do get rich enough to have any public money to throw away we can expend it on these approaches; but now what is our condition? Everybody knows that the Treasury is depleted, that the Government is almost bankrupt; and yet there seems to lie earnest efforts to bankrupt it absolutely in every form by giv- ing to everybody that asks anything he wants when there is no means of raising any more revenue from any source than we are collecting now as everybody admits, when the receipts are dwindling and diminishing every day, as the chairman of the Com- mittee on Finance tells us. He told us the other day that the Secretary was eleven million below his own estimates of revenue this year up to this time. Surely, at such a time there is no necessity upon earth for spending this $100,000 in making approaches to the west end of the Capitol. Mr. Window. I move to lav the amendment on the table. Mr. Morrill. I ask the Senator to withdraw the motion for a single moment. Mr. Window. I will yield to the Senator. Mr. Morrill. The Senator from Kentucky having made Ids record here symmet- rical I hope he will be entirely content if the Senate does not approve of his propo- sition. Mr. Beck. I shall certainly have it done by the yeas and nays if it is done. Mr. Morrill. I have no objection to the yeas and nays. I have never yet been ashamed of a vote that I proposed to give. Now, Mr. President, I ivas directed by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds to move an amendment increasing this appropriation $50,000. I ask is it not passing strange, when Senators here will make liberal appropriations for com- pleting public buildings everywhere else, that they begrudge ever}' little picayune amendment here and compel the completion of these grounds to be procrastinated year after year? The House of Representatives has proposed this appropriation of $100,000, and it is for the purpose of improving the walks and to add curb-stones, and to add concrete pavements where they are needed, and to finish up the south- western approach like the northwestern approach; and I am astonished that any- body can find fault with an appropriation of this kind which tends to complete these grounds. There is some just cause of complaint upon the south side of the grounds that they have not been advanced with the same care and rapidity as those on the north side. Mr. President, 1 trust that if no amendment is proposed to add anything to this sum we shall not quite humor the Senator from Kentucky by striking out what the House has already. Mr. Beck. I ask the Senator from Vermont what is proposed to be done with the $55,000 given in lines 1465 and 1466? Why is not that $55,000 ample for all repairs? Mr. Morrill. That is for this building, the various repairs that are every year called for and always must be. Mr. Beck. They take those out of the contingent fund of the Senate and House all the time. Mr. Voorhees. Mr. President, I have not taken any part in this debate, for I shall content myself with voting against this bill in its entirety when we get through, if I get a chance. I have been astounded at the lavish appropriations t hat are passing through Congress, and I desire at this time to enter my protest, so far as I am con- cerned, against the scale of expenditures that we have entered upon. The item that is now before us is one of a number of entirely useless expenditures of the public money. In connection with the plea which the Senator from Vermont makes for the adornment of our grounds, I desire to say that if the man who has been engaged on these west grounds had died before he began nature would have left the grounds much more sightly than they are. When I came here nearly twenty years ago as a member of Congress, there were pleasant and beautiful approaches to this Capitol. ] 206 Documentary History of the Capitol. Now they are ragged and unsightly. I would not vote one dollar for the man who has planned these grounds to continue his work of sacrilege and desecration upon Capitol Hill. 1 have listened to this discussion going on here this morning with a very con- siderable interest. We appropriated money to put up a scarecrow down at the mouth of the avenue to block up the way and to make an unsightly approach to our Capitol. This morning we are asked to appropriate money to take down houses to give us room to get around that unsightly pile, and I think we have done it, but I do not know. At least, the proposition was to take off the corners there, in order to give us room to drive around that monument of stupidity and bad taste. An appropriation of course will have to be made to take it away. It cannot stand there long. If there is not taste enough in this generation there will be in the rising generation to remove it and put it in some cemetery or burying-ground, where it bel ongs. Now, Mr. President, in behalf of the people of this country I hope that Congress will let things alone a little. This is not the time to be keeping up a system of what we call improvements, which is really a system of defacement of these grounds, and solely for the purpose of employing some persons who call themselves engineers of public grounds or something of that kind, I hardly know how to characterize them; landscape gardener has been suggested as a proper designation. This bill, however, considered in connection with a bill whose mention will not be offensive to my friends sitting around me, the river and harbor bill, has startled me. There was much in the river and harbor bill that commended itself to me, appropriations for many great enterprises. The general scope and spirit were admirable, but like this bill it gath- ered up as it went along every conceivable object, trifling, obscure, and in my judg- ment unworthy, until we appropriated some nine millions of money, and the way this is going on by the time we get through it will be like one of those huge snowballs that gather up everything in the way and become an unsightly deformity to our legislation. As I said when I got up I have taken no part in this debate, although I have watched it closely, content in my own mind to oppose as I shall all expendi- tures of the public money on such a reckless scale and for such purposes as these. Mr. Window. Mr. President, it requires a good deal of courage to state that there has been no improvement in the condition of these grounds during the last few years. Mr. Voorhees. Let me ask the Senator from Minnesota if he really believes that this scraggy, ragged line of trees down here are as handsome to-day as those beautiful chestnuts which lined the walk when he and I first came here together young men in the other branch of Congress. If he answers that in the affirmative, I despair of his lines of beauty, of his vision, of his appreciation. Mr. Window. I can make my speech to satisfy myself better than the Senator is making it, if he will allow me. 1 was about to say that it took a great deal of courage to declare that these grounds were not improved. I remember those old scraggy cottonwood trees that existed in this place when I first came here. I remember how carriages used to stick in the mud when they drove around this building. I remem- ber once distinctly riding in a stage within a block of the Patent Office and having to get out while the driver pried the wheels out of the mud with rails. I remember the old fence that stood around these grounds. I remember their dilapidated con- dition; and looking upon them now, I should have to be very courageous to say that there was no improvement. I move to lay the amendment on the table. Mr. Voorhees. Ah, Mr. President, the Senator from Minnesota begs the question. The President -pro tempore. The motion is not debatable. The Senator from Min- nesota has moved to lay the motion on the table. Mr. Beck. I ask for the yeas and nays on that motion. The yeas and nays were ordered. Mr. Conkling. Laying the motion on the table leaves the lines in the bill. The Terraces. 1207 The President pro tempore. That is the effect. The Secretary proceeded to call the roll. The roll-call having been concluded, the result was announced — yeas 24, nays 27 ; as follows: * * * So the motion was not agreed to. The President pro tempore. The question recurs on the amendment of the Senator from Kentucky, [Mr. Beck.] Mr. Morrill. I ask for the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered. Mr. Morrill. If this section is stricken out there will not be a dollar expended on these grounds for a year to come, and I hope it will not be stricken out. The question being taken by yeas and nays, resulted — yeas 23, nays 25; as follows: * * * So the amendment was not agreed to. Mr. Beck. I desire to again have a vote on this amendment when the bill is reported to the Senate. [Senate proceedings of June 9, 1880: Congressional Record, 46—2, p. 4329.] The Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1881 — Mr. Morrill. In line 962, I move to strike out, after the word “grounds,” “$60,000,” and to insert “and for the construction of stairways on the western front of the Capitol, $150,000;” so as to read: Improving Capitol grounds: For continuing the work on the Capitol grounds and for the construc- tion of stairways on the western front of the Capitol, $150,000. I desire to say that we are making appropriations for public buildings all over the country; we have just made one of as large an amount as this would require for a light-house on Lake Superior; and yet the stairs on the west front of the Capitol have been neglected for years. It does seem to me that it is important, it is for the con- venience of the members of the House and of the Senate, that we should do some- thing to complete the western front of the Capitol. Mr. Beck rose. Mr. Morrill. I trust that there will be no objection upon the part of my friend from Kentucky to an addition to the bill for the purpose of the stairways that we have now, which are a reproach to any people, and that there shall be an appropria- tion made for new stairs on the west front of the Capitol. Mr. Beck. The matter was considered with a great deal of care by the Committee on Appropriations, and was very well presented by the Senator from Vermont. The serious difficulty we had about it was simply this, that the plan for the improvement of the front of the Capitol is not yet determined on. What it will be, what will be the cost, we do not know; neither has the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds determined. While we, of course, are compelled to make very large expend- itures where they are absolutely necessary, we could not see the necessity of build- ing stairways to approach a building which itself had not yet been determined on and the character of the plan of which was not even yet laid before any committee of the House or the Senate. The plan may be so changed before it is adopted that the stairways that we would build now would not suit at all, would neither be in correspondence with it nor be in the place where they ought to be. It seemed like spending money simply because we had money to spend to build an approach to a thing that did not exist or that 1208 Documentary History of the Capitol. might have to be torn away, as it seems to be the general plan all around this Capitol to put up one year and tear away the next. They are. building a thing down here now on this side of the public grounds. I do not know what it is. I heard that it was a house for some man’s monkey. No man knows what it is.- It is an eye-sore there now. They have been changing all around. They have a pair of things out- side the Capitol here that look like Dutch spittoons. They are said to be very beau- tiful. They have built steps now from Pennsylvania avenue, from the monument there — what do you call it? A war monument, I believe. Several Senators. The naval monument. Mr. Beck. The naval monument, and a beautiful monument it is! From there they have built steps that no man can step from one to another. They are so badly constructed that one cannot make two steps out of them. While a Senator may be perfectly safe, some friend coming down from the Capitol may break his neck. They will- be pulled away in less than another year. Now it is desired to put up another stairway to a building the plan of which we know nothing about, which is simply going on and spending money unnecessarily. It was the unanimous determination of the Committee on Appropriations that this thing could wait until we see what we are going to do, and I do hope the Senate will sustain the committee in their determination. Mr. Morrill. I think the Senator from Kentucky has made but one just criticism, and that is in relation to the steps here. I am ready to agree with him most cordially that there is a mistake in the height of the steps from Pennsylvania avenue to the western stairway. So far as the building going up on the right-hand side is con- cerned, a place of rest, I think the Senator had better wait until it is completed. It is a very inexpensive affair, costing only §2,200, and when it is completed I think the expectation is that it will prove one of the handsomest decorations about the grounds. In relation to the lai-ge “Dutch spittoons” I ought to say, in order that others as well as the Senator from Kentucky may know what the original purpose was of those bronze vases upon the east side of the Capitol, that it was the intention of the artist that they should be filled with jets of water so as to throw up water in the form of a half globe, and that the interior should be lighted with gas jets, so that in the evening it would always present a rainbow. If this flow of water there making a regular half circle over the entire top shall be completed, it will then present a very beautiful feature of the grounds upon the eastern side of the Capitol. Mr. McDonald. I should like to ask the Senator from Vermont what this struc- ture is, what is it called? Mr. Morrill. Which? Mr. McDonald. What is the name of the structure down here in the grounds? Mr. Morrill. It is a summer rest, I believe, sir. [Laughter.] Mr. McMillan. Does the Senator mean that it has been resting all summer? [Laughter. ] Mr. Morrill. The observations of the Senator from Kentucky about the front of the Capitol I think have no foundation, for it will make no difference whether the steps come within a few feet more or less of the front of the Capitol, they will always come upon a parapet; therefore, that objection is removed. The old steps are worn out; and it is hardly practicable to get over them in the winter season, and they are unsightly at any time. It seems to me that it is quite time that they should be removed and something better placed in their stead. Mr. Teller. I should like to ask by whose authority this summer’s rest was built? I ask the Senator from Vermont, as he seems to know about it. Mr. Morrill. It was built by authority of Mr. Olmstead. Mr. Teller. Are those questions submitted to Congress, and do we know any- thing about them beforehand? The Terraces. 1209 Mr. Morrill. No, sir. Mr. Teller. I think if he is going to build any more summer rests or roosts, the matter had better be submitted to Congress. It is a blemish, I think, to the grounds. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment of the Senator from Vermont. Mr. Anthony. I hope the amendment will be agreed to. The steps on the west front of the Capitol are not only unsightly, but they are unsafe. I appeal to my vigilant friend, the Senator from West Virginia, whom I do not see in his seat, and who is always in favor of economy, to support this amendment on economical grounds. We are in danger of breaking our necks every time we go up and down those steps, and it costs $5,000 to bury a member of Congress. [Laughter.] I think it would be a measure of economy to adopt the amendment. Mr. Davis, of West Virginia. The general rule is not to go down the steps, but to go the other road. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment of the Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill]: The amendment was rejected; there being, on a division — ayes 16, noes 23. [From the report of F. H. Cobb, engineer, given in the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, Oct. 1, 1880. (46 — 3, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 2, p. 438.)] The improvements have always contemplated the erection of the grand stairways on the west front as part of the original design adopted by Congress, and all work has been done with reference to the removal of the two earthen terraces and the substitution of marble. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, Oct. 1, 1881. (47 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 2, pp. 825 and 832.)] In relation to the proposed terrace I invite especial attention to the letter of Mr. F. Law Olmsted, which is herewith appended. * * * October 1, 1881. Sir: When the new wings of the Capitol had been built, much of its due value was evidently lost because of the incongruous objects by which it was surrounded and the unfavorable circumstances under which it had to be observed. Congress then ordered the demolition of the nearest adjacent buildings and a design to be prepared for a suitable laying out of an enlarged Capitol ground. At this time the earth thrown out from the foundations having been heaped up within geometric outlines and grassed over, had begun to be known as the tetrace. In the climate of Washington a semblance of turf laid on a steep formal bank is often for long periods as devoid of verdure or of any quality of beauty or architectural dignity as a dust-heap. Under the most favorable circumstances it must appear but a shabby make-shift for a terrace suited to the situation and adapted, as such a terrace would be, to support and augment the grand effect of so august a structure as the Capitol. The term thus rather suggests what is left lacking than what is supplied by the earthwork in question. At once impressed with this consideration, when I had the honor to be asked to prepare a plan for laying out the ground my first step was to ask your assent, as Archcitect of the Capitol, to the introduction of a feature at the base of the building designed to remedy this defect. Your assent having been promptly and cordially given, and the general character of the structure for the purpose provisionally agreed upon, the entire plan of the grounds was afterwards worked out with constant refer- ence to it. 1210 Documentary History of the Capitol. Before presenting the plan to the joint committee of Congress having oversight of the work, scaffolds were set up to indicate the dimensions of the proposed terrace and to aid judgment of its effect on the building. The committee, after taking counsel with you, called in, also, with reference to the particular question of the terrace, your venerable predecessor, Mr. Walter, and then Architect of the Treasury, Mr. Potter, both of whom warmly supported the proposition. After prolonged consideration the entire plan was approved and favorably reported by the committee without a dissenting voice and subsequently adopted by Congress. Photographic copies of the plan and the prospective sketch of the terrace have since been widely distributed. In the several years that they have been under review but one criticism is known to have been drawn out. It assumes that the ter- race would injuriously intercept view's of the lower part of the Capitol building as it now stands. If the assumption w r ere sound it should have condemned the entire plan of the grounds, since mainly carried into execution. To understand its unsound- ness it needs to be considered that the full proportions and beauty of a great building like the Capitol can only be comprehended from a distance at w'hich its various parts will fall into a satisfactory perspective. Accordingly, in planning the grounds, after determining as before stated upon the general character of the terrace, the next step was, again in consultation with you as the Architect, to fix upon twelve points of view from which the Capitol would be seen to advantage in as many different aspects. The route and grade of the various roads and walks leading in from the several points of entrance determined by the abutting streets; the shaping of the surface elsewhere and the disposition of the trees and shrubbery upon it, as well as the planning of the terrace in more detail, was then determined in studious adjustment to these points of view, care being taken, of course, that no part of the building should be undesirably obscured from any one of them. To accomplish the object the terrace was so designed that its upper line would, at critical points, be a few inches below the height of the present earthworks, and these, from any point at which a pleasing full view r of the Capitol can be had, will be found to barely obscure the granite base stones upon which the marble walls of the Capitol rest. An examination of the premises can thus easily be made by any one inter- ested which will show the alleged objection to be groundless. Considering that the motive which has mainly controlled the outlay of more than ten millions of dollars on the Capitol is that of investing the Halls of Congress and the Supreme Court with suitable dignity and beauty, it will be found that the sum required for adding the proposed terrace will, as the entire structure now stands, accomplish more to that end than an equal amount has done anywhere heretofore expended on it. For example, the terrace being supplied: First. The western front of the building will appear as standing on a much firmer base, and thus gam greatly in the supreme qualities of stability, endurance, and repose. Second. The marble mass, being larger in all its dimensions as well as more firmly planted, will no longer be overpowered and as it were put out of countenance by its crowning feature, the dome. Third. The opportunity of the higher relative elevation, the more genial exposure, and the far-spreading, varied, and charming landscape of the Potomac front, now lost to most who visit the Capitol, will be turned to profitable account, and the more so because of the freedom of the west side from the disturbance of carriages, and the immediate presence of a foreground harmonious in forms and color with the distant Virginia horizon. Fourth The larger part of the city, the Executive Mansion and the other govern- ment buildings will no longer appear to tail off to the rear of the Capitol, but what has been considered its rear v ill be recognized as its more dignified and stately front. The Terraces. 1211 Fifth. Yet another gain is to be accomplished by the terrace, the value of which is not perhaps as readily to be appreciated in advance as those above enumerated, but which is assured by much experience. 1 1 is the augmentation of architectural effect in a structure of classic style, where there stands interposed between it and the adjacent ground a considerable feature, partaking of its leading characteristics and extending its material, yet carrying up toward it some outgrowths as it were of natural decora- tion. So seldom has anything been done with us to secure this advantage, and it seems so little a matter of familiar knowledge, that it is available that I will add to my assertion of it, in a note at the end of this report, the evidence of two out of many masters of art who might be quoted for that purpose. Of the advantages of the terrace as planned otherwise than with a view to archi- tectural effect, I will briefly refer to two only: First. The increased convenience which it will offer to all visiting the Capitol, coming from the west on foot. Second. The provision which it will afford of spacious, dry, fire-proof, and other- wise secure and suitable exterior vaults for the storing, handling, and using of coal and all other supplies needed for the business of the Capitol, but which cannot be brought within its walls proper, without also bringing dirt, noise, and confusion too near its halls and offices. Respectfully, Fred’k Law Olmsted, Landscape Architect. Edward Clark, Esq., Architect of the Capitol. [From the report of F. H. Cobb, engineer, given in the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, Oct. 1, 1881. (47 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 2, p. 823.)] The completion of the lawns and approaches on the west side bring into greater prominence the want of symmetry existing between the old plan and the new. When the upright marble walls and central approaches shall be substituted, with their broad landing places and stairways, carrying the steps far out into the west lawn, the wide walks which now converge towards the center will be in harmony with them. At present the narrow and steep central steps, being out of proportion both to the new plan and the Capitol building, present a cramped and undignified appearance. They are also difficult of ascent, and dangerous in the winter months. There is about 50 feet of elevation to overcome, and whatever plan is eventually carried into execution must of necessity follow these general principles, so that the walks now finished will be in their proper position. Owing to the uncertainty respecting the terraces, the lawns immediately surround- ing them have been left unchanged, and to a certain extent uncared for. [Senate proceedings of Aug. 1. 1882: Congressional Record, 47 — 1, p. 6730.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1883 — The reading of the bill was resumed. The next amendment of the Committee on Appropriations was, in line 1648, after the word “grounds,” to strike out “including permanent approaches to the House and Senate wings;” in line 1650, after the word “of,” to strike out “landscape architect;” and in line 1651, after the word “work- men,” to strike out “seventy-five” and insert “twenty-five;” so as to make the clause read: For improving the Capitol grounds: For continuing the work of the improvement of the Capitol grounds, pay of one clerk, and wages of mechanics, gardeners, and workmen, 925,000. Mr. Vest. I trust that the Senate will reject these amendments proposed by the committee. The Joint Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds have considered 1212 Documentary History of the Capitol. in detail and with great care the expediency of making these improvements on the wings of the Capitol. Every Senator present must know from personal observation that these improvements must be made. Twenty-five thousand dollars is utterly inadequate to this work. If the amount is reduced from $75,000 to $25,000 it is simply saying that the work shall not be done, at least for the present. In regard to the next amendment of the committee, which I might as well discuss now very briefly, the committee propose to strike out any appropriation for the land- scape architect. I undertake to say that he is one of the best officers in the employ of the Government. He has made these grounds a marvel of beauty. He stands at the head of his profession, and he has never received more than one full year’s salary. For what purpose the committee now propose to virtually abolish this offi- cer I am unable to see. They leave a clerk here, for whom there is no necessity really. There is not half so much necessity for a clerk as there is for the employ- ment of this architect. It is simply impossible to perfect these grounds and make the necessary improvements unless the services of this official are retained. I have not heard from the committee what their reasons may be, and I cannot imagine how the beauty of these grounds is to be preserved, how they are to be made worthy of this magnificent building and of this great nation, if the services of the man whose genius and skill have done more than all other causes combined to put them in their present condition, imperfect though it is, are to be dispensed with. I hope that these amendments will not be adopted by the Senate. Mr. Morrill. Mr. President, I am very certain that the Committee on Appropria- tions had not the information that was necessary to decide upon this subject. It was very carefully considered by the Committee on Appropriations in the House, and if it had been supposed by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds of the Senate that there was any disposition to cut this down from the small appropria- tion made by the House they certainly would have appeared before the Senate Com- mittee on Appropriations. Instead of the full sum appropriated by the House it really ought to be a sum very much larger, for we really ought to complete the approaches to this Capitol both upon the front and upon the wings. Of this appro- priation of $75,000, $50,000 will be required to be spread over the grounds to put on more stone- work and to make various improvements that are already in progress; and only $25,000 was intended to cover the approaches from the two ends at the Senate and House wings of the Capitol. Every one knows the awkward condition they are now in, and it is very desirable that they should be improved for the con- venience of Senators and members of the House. I trust that the committee will not insist upon their amendment. Mr. Allison. Mr. President, I have no doubt the Senator from Vermont states correctly when he states that the Committee on Appropriations knew nothing about this. Of course we did not know as much about it as the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, but we believed that it was not a wise thing to enter upon the permanent approaches to the House and Senate for the reason that we knew that to complete these approaches would cost about $600,000, and we did not believe that the sum of $75,000 was worth while as an amount to be ajiplied to such a purpose. I have learned that the only object of this appropriation is to arrange the grounds on the north wing of the Capitol where we enter now to the main eastern entrance and also on the like wing of the House of Representatives. If that is the only object of the appropriation, I do not know that I have any great objection. I think we had better fix the amount the same as was fixed last year, $60,000. Mr. Morrill. That will not do anything, because it will take $50,000 for the com- pletion of the stone walls along about the grounds. Mr. Allison. The landscape architect stated that he could build the wall as sug- gested in this paragraph for much less than $25,000. Mr. Morrill. Yes; but he said he could not build both of them for $25,000. The Terraces. 1213 Mr. Allison. I know. Is $50,000 required for these two walls? Mr. Morrill. No; I do not know precisely the amount required, but $50,000 is required for the other improvements that are going on on the central grounds and other places. Mr. Allison. I will modify the amendment of the committee by inserting “sixty” instead of “ seventy-five,” and let the Senate do as it chooses. Mr. Morrill. That will not be enough. Mr. Plumb. I should like to ask the Senator from Vermont, not in any spirit of criticism, what is the cost of keeping the grounds in order, if he knows, without any improvement upon them at all? Mr. Morrill. I know that there is not a sufficient amount so that they can be kept in such order as they onght, to be; but the precise amount that is expended to keep them in order I do not know. Mr. Plumb. It seems to me we ought, at least, to have, out of the appropriation we make, the grounds kept in good fair order. They look to me like an abandoned patch just now. Certainly there are no private grounds that I know of anywhere in any country where it rains where the evidence of drought is more visible than on these grounds at this moment. Looking back now nearly six years that I have been here, and considering the large sum of money appropriated every year, it does seem to me that a very considerable portion of it must have been used after the fashion that Mr. Girard, I think it was, was said to have employed a man who wanted employment to take coal out of his bin and put it back again. I cannot certainly see, with the eyes I have been blessed with, that very much has been done with a very large sum of money. My idea about it would be — and I express it with the utmost deference, not only to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, but the chairman of the com- mittee, for whose judgment and taste I have the highest respect — that we ought to appropriate a sum of money enough to keep the grounds in order, and it ought to be applied to that purpose. Then we shall know whether what we appropriate is properly spent or not. It seems now we are appropriating a certain sum which can be used one way or the other, according as the fever for improvements or the fever for keeping up the grounds is uppermost, and the consequence is that we do not get the grounds kept in good shape and we do not get the improvements made on them. I have seen the plan suggested by Mr. Olmsted. I do not want to disparage him by saying that 1 would indorse it at all, though it seems to me on the whole pretty fair, but we ought to do the work in some way so that we may get during a twelve- month something that is completed visibly, perceptibly, for the money we spend. As it is now, doing a little here and a little there, tearing down and building up, putting up a few curbstones here, and a few there, we do not seem to make any real, tangible, substantial progress in the work of improving and beautifying these grounds and making this Capitol what it ought to be. I admit much ought to be done. I should be glad to see that unsightly deformity on the west front of the Capitol removed or in some way modified, but it seems to me that we are pursuing the matter now in a way that does not yield any result. Mr. Morrill. If I shall live, I will endeavor to have a sum sufficient appropriated next year that will satisfy the Senator from Kansas. But certainly according to his suggestion there should not be any diminution from this little sum that is proposed, barely $25,000 for the approaches on the ends of the wings of the Capitol, and these should be made whether the terrace is completed or not. We want better approaches on each end of the Capitol for the House and for the Senate. I trust the Senate will be unanimous in favor of retaining the House provision. Mr. Beck. I consented to striking down the amount to the small sum now given in order to allow the Capitol grounds to be let alone for a year. I knew very well that if the language “including permanent approaches to the House and Senate 1214 Documentary History of the Capitol. wings ” remained, it could be construed to mean to make the beginning of these per- manent approaches of which we have had some beautiful pictures on the west side of the Capitol, which would cost in my judgment several hundred thousand dollars — how many I do not know. If we are going to make these permanent approaches, fifty, or sixty, or seventy thousand dollars is not more than enough to tear up what we already have, and then we should be in a condition where we should be obliged to give whatever was asked for. I do not want to make approaches to the Capitol in that way. Mr. Morrill. The Senator from Kentucky will understand that this does not tear up anything. It merely appropriates $25,000 for these approaches. Mr. Beck. I do not know whether it does or not, for there is nothing before us to indicate. Approaches have been made from Maryland avenue and Pennsylvania avenue, and steps have been laid and steps have been torn up again, and sidewalls have been built. Mr. Morrill. Nothing has been torn up since the present landscape architect has had charge ; not a foot of earth has been changed or moved since he has had charge. Mr. Beck. We had steps made three or four feet wide at one time, and a man could not step from one to the other; and they have been changed within the last year or two, I know, and I think the change is a good one. These grand approaches that are spoken of here may be according to the very plan that the Senator from Massachusetts [Mr. Dawes] has hung up in his room for extending the west front out so as to provide for the Library. I do not Want to approach matters that way. If we are going to invest a large sum of money to make approaches to the Capitol, say so. If you are not going to do it, let them alone. Mr. Vest. Does the Senator from Kentucky mean to say that this touches that matter? Mr. Beck. The western approach, the plan of which I have seen, will cost three hundred or four hundred thousand dollars. Mr. Vest. It will not cost that, I am sure. M r. Beck. Will the Senator tell me how much those structures on the west side cost? Will he guess within $20,000? Will he say that $75,000 would pay for them, or will he say that they are worth seventy-five cents now that they are there? Mr. Vest. That is not the question before the Senate. Mr. Beck. The question before the Senate is the approaches to the Capitol, and I want to know what sort of approaches are to be made and what is going to be spent for these approaches before I vote money to tear the ground up. That is w'hat I want to get at, and until it is determined, until we have some plan, some informa- tion, I want the Capitol grounds to be let alone for a little while. If good approaches are to be given, let us have them, let us see the plan of them, and let us know what they are going to cost. I know the Senator from Vermont has been extremely anxious to have grand approaches made on the west side, and we have had the plans laid down, and I know the Senator from Massachusetts has had a grand plan to raise the dome and extend the building out on the west, and if these grand approaches are made they may cut off his plan, and force the Library to be put somewhere else. I want things done directly. Let us have some information, and if we cannot get it, I am opposed to making appropriations. Here was a thing built down in the grounds on the west side of the Capitol, going from our wing to Pennsylvania ave- nue. What was that for? I heard it was built for a monkey-house. [Laughter.] I do not know what it is. Then, what was that thing near Senator Jones’s house built for? Nobody knows, except to spend money. Then there are those two things built of granite and gilded all over, on the east side of the Capitol, and no Senator here can tell within $20,000 of what they cost. If we can get proper information I will vote any amount of money that is needed. I have tried for five years to find out. The Terraces. 1215 Mr. Vest. "Will the Senator from Kentucky tell us why the Committee on Appro- priations struck out the appropriation for the landscape architect? Is it proposed that that official shall cease to exist? Do the committee hold that there is no neces- sity for it, that things shall he left to the laborers? Mr. Beck. We thought that Mr. Clark, who has charge of these grounds, if the grounds were let alone, could see to it that they were well cared for, and that until some definite plan is established we need not pay §4,000 a year for a landscape archi- tect to come here from New York twice a month to took at things. That is all he does as far as I know. Mr. Morrill. Let me say to the Senator from Kentucky that he. is entirely mis- taken in relation to the compensation of the architect. He had but §4,000 to begin with, and he had that only for one year, and renounced one-half of it ever since. He is not a selfish man at all, and I have no doubt he would rather be retained in charge of these works than to be dismissed, even if he had no pay at all. But I think he fully earns his money by coming here and staying as long as he does every season. Mr. Beck. My information is that Mr. Olmsted is a very able man, and I have no objection to leaving him here to look at it, and paying him any proper sum for com- ing and looking at it. All I say is that unless we have some definite plan as to how we shall spend the money we had better let things alone. Twenty-five thousand dollars will care for everything until the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds can give us a plan of what the}' want done, and what the cost of it will be, and how they are going to do it; and until we get that let us content ourselves with taking care of what we have got. I am willing, as far as I am concerned, to reject the amendment that leaves Mr. Olmsted out, and pay him to look at the grounds and see that nothing is interfered with; and whenever the Committee on Public Building and Grounds give us a good plan that they themselves will agree on, and tell us what it is going to cost, I shall be willing to vote money; but I have been much astonished and surprised at the structure put in the western grounds on the House side; it looks to me a disgraceful thing, and so with this little concern below on this side coming up to the Capitol. Surely they are of no sort of use. I do not know what they call them. Then there is the Washington statue on the east side, with those granite things near it with gilding on top. I know they cost a large sum of money, more than is asked for in this bill, from all the information I have, and I never have seen a man yet who could tell me within §20,000 of what they did cost. What they are meant for I do not know. If Mr. Olmsted is going to do any more work of that sort and do any more of these things, I want to see the plan of them and have the approval of the Senator from Vermont and his committee before anything is done, so that somebody may be responsible. We shall meet here again in December, and we shall find the whole thing torn up, and perhaps it will cost four or five hundred thousand dollars to make the grand approaches on the west, and we cannot stop the work then. I want to do nothing until we are told what is wanted, and then I am willing on a proper plan to vote any amount that is necessary. I believe we had better leave Mr. Olmsted in; I think perhaps it was a mistake to strike him out. I will vote any amount necessary, but I want to know what it is for. In the approaches to the Capitol from Pennsyl- vania avenue there were broad steps made at one time that had to be changed, and the wall there is no improvement on the old grade as it was when we used to come up here ten years ago. I have no doubt §100,000 has been spent in making those changes; I do not know that that would pay for them; and with these approaches the grounds do not look any better. It is certainly not safe, and until we know what is to be done we can afford to stand still and just keep the grounds in order. The President pro tempore. The question is on the amendment of the Committee on Appropriations. 1216 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Vest. I understand in regard to tlie landscape architect the committee are willing to let that stand in the bill. Mr. Van Wyck. I should like to ask the Senator from Kentucky, if his position is right and only money enough is to be provided in this bill to keep up the ordinary repair of the grounds, on what he bases his opinion that it is best that $4,000 a year should be paid to a landscape architect when there is no sort of necessity for him? Mr. Beck. My information now is that that architect has not charged his full pay, or more than half of it, and that his supervision of these things is necessary, and when we adopt the plan which may be agreed to by Congress next session nothing ought to be done to destroy the harmony of what has been done. This present architect is known to be a man of ability and a man of integrity, as all agree. Mr. Van Wyck. 1 understand the Senator’s position to be that there shall be no change. Mr. Beck. Until December, when we can have a report from our committee. In the mean time I would rather retain the landscape architect at the salary he wants for supervision over the grounds than to run the risk of having a new man called in. All agree that there is no more competent man than Mr. Olmsted. Mr. Van Wyck. Will any danger arise from calling in another man? Mr. Beck. I do not know. It is better to hold on to a man you know is good than to run the risk of a bad one. Mr. Hawley. The Senator from Kentucky does no more than justice to Mr. Olm- sted, a man connected with the Central Park of New York from the beginning until very lately; called in to take care of Prospect Park in Brooklyn; now in charge of the park work of the city of Boston; in charge of the park work at Buffalo, and also of the Southern Park at Chicago, an architect the most expert in that business in the United States, a man of charming character and the highest ability. When appropriations were made some time ago and this work was begun he was called in as the man whose advice it was best to have. They put. down for him a salary of $4,000. The appropriations were not large enough for the particular work in the style he desired, and he went to the Architect of the Capitol and said, “ Put my salary down. It should not be more than $2,000 if you are not going to expend more money than this.” And he has not taken it, and does not desire it. He would rather go on and see this work through for nothing than lose the chance of seeing it done and giving it his own special and friendly interest. The appropriation of $75,000 proposed by the House is small enough. It does not contemplate entering on the larger improvements, the terraces around the whole west front of the Capitol, but has in view only the northeastern corner of the Senate wing and southeast corner of the House wing. Senators will remember there is but a rough plank near the corner of the building. Something has to be done to make that better. Arid then some of the work is to be on the east front of the Capitol. The work, so far as has been done within six or eight years around the Capitol, is admirable, and is going to make ultimately of this building and these grounds the most beautiful spot in the world architecturally. Nor is it Mr. Olmsted’s own doing. It has been done in consultation with the Architect of the Capitol, with engineers, with landscape gardeners, and with the best talent and taste of the country. I wish the $75,000 might stay in the bill, just that these two corners may be put in better order within the year, and I am very glad to see the disposition to keep Mr. Olmsted anyhow. The President pro tempore. The Senator from Missouri suggests that the words “landscape architect,” in line 1650, by unanimous consent, be retained in the bill. Mr. Morrill. Take the amendments as they come. The President pro tempore. That is the first. The words “landscape architect” may be retained instead of stricken out. If there be no objection, the question is on the rest of the amendment of the committee. The Terraces. 1217 Mr. Morrill. I want to take the vote on the amendment in lines 1648 and 1649 first, including the word “wings,” in line 1650. I trust the Senate will retain them all. The President pro tempore. The Senator wants a separate vote? Mr. Morrill. Yes. The President pro tempore. Then the question is on striking out the words “includ- ing permanent approaches to the House and Senate wings.” Mr. Beck. The Senator from Iowa suggested a change of the amount. Mr. Allison. I suggested $60,000, the amount, appropriated last year. Mr. Beck. The approaches alluded to are sim those coming up on the east side and south side, and not the great central work 1 understand. Mr. Allison. That is the understanding. Mr. Beck. Then I will not object. Mr. Morrill. Then leave the clause as it came from the House. Sixty thousand dollars will not be enough. Fifty thousand dollars is really required for other things, and it will take more thaii $10,000 to make one approach. Mr. Allison. I should like to ask the Senator from Vermont what other things require $50,000? Mr. Morrill. Curbing that yet has to be done. Mr. Allison. Where? Mr. Morrill. At various points. Mr. Allison. I do not think we ought to spend $50,000 in curbing. Mr. Morrill. It is not all for that. The President pro tempore. Is there objection to retaining all the words in this paragraph that the Committee on Appropriations propose to strike out, and then to come to the question of what shall be the amount of the appropriation? [“No!” “No! ”] There is no objection to retaining all the paragraph except the amount of the appropriation. The question then is on striking out “$75,000” and inserting “$25,000.” Mr. Morrill. I ask the Senator from Iowa to put that at $65,000. Mr. Allison. I will compromise on that. The President pro tempore. It is moved to insert $65,000. Is there objection to that? The Chair hears no objection, and the amendment is so modified. The ques- tion is on the amendment as modified. The amendment as modified was agreed to. [From the “ Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty -three, and for other purposes,” approved Aug. 7, 1882. (Stats, at Large, v. 22, 325.)] For improving the Capitol Grounds: For continuing the work of the improvement of the Capitol Grounds, including permanent approaches to the House and Senate wings, pay of landscape architect, one clerk, and wages of mechanics, gardeners, and workmen, sixty-five thousand dollars. [From the report of Frederick Law Olmsted, given in annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1882. (47 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 2, p. 909.)] In reviewing the present aspect of the Capitol it should be borne in mind that the area within a distance of from 100 to 150 feet of the Capitol, including the slopes beyond the high earth works, remains as it was temporarily prepared twenty years ago pending the design of a general plan for the improvement of the ground. The INCOMPLETE WORK.— THE TERRACE. II. Rep. 646 77 1218 Documentary History of the Capitol. more nearly the improvement beyond this space is brought to realize its local inten- tion, the more unsuitable, shabby, and disorderly must the central and more conspic- uous ground appear, so that the better the work done the less satisfactory is the result as a whole. The anomaly will be more and more marked until the terrace and western stairway shall have been completed and the adjoining ground graded and finished in adaptation to them. The present Joint Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds have reviewed the plans for these structures adopted seven years ago by Congress, on the recommenda- tion of their predecessors, and it is understood that all its members are convinced that they should be carried out without needless delay. Until Congress adopts this conclu- sion the Capitol grounds must both be seen at disadvantage and produce impressions unjust to the general design incorporating them. For the convenience of the committee a brief statement, with illustrative sketches of the plan of the terrace, was prepared last winter. The construction of the terrace will involve no breaking up of ground or roads or walks already finished, and need cause no inconvenience to the ordinary business of the Capitol. [House proceedings of Feb. 21, 1883: Congressional Record, 47 — 2, p. 3081.] The Plouse as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1884 — The Clerk read as follows: For improving the Capitol grounds: For continuing the work of the improvement of the Capitol grounds, including permanent approaches to the House and Senate wings, pay of landscape architect, one clerk, and wages of mechanics, gardeners, and workmen, $65,000. Mr. Wilson. 1 move the amendment which I send to the desk. The Clerk read as follows: Strike out the words “ work of,” in line 1227, and the words “ of the Capitol grounds, including,” in same line and line 1228. Mr. Wilson. Mr. Chairman, my object in offering this amendment is to stop this eternal work on the Capitol grounds. The despoiler has been here for ten years to my knowledge. The beauty and symmetry of these grounds have been in a great measure destroyed. Those who have carried on these so-called “improvements” have removed the most beautiful forest there was about the city of Washington — a forest containing shade-trees which can not be replaced in less than a quarter of a century. In winter and in summer, in spring-time and in fall these grounds are being dug up, trees cut down, and changes everlastingly made. This damage to the public grounds around the Capitol has been going on for a series of years. I think any man of taste must fail to discover that any improvement has been made, though thousands of dollars have been expended. The amendment of Mr. W t ilson was not agreed to. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 1, 1883: Congressional Record, 47 — 2, pp. 3469, 3492.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1884 — The next amendment was, in line 1532, after “wings,” to strike out “pay of land- scape architect;” and in line 1533, after “workmen,” to strikeout “sixty-five” and insert “fifty;” so as to make the clause read: For improving the Capitol grounds: For continuing the work of the improvement of the Capitol grounds, including permanent approaches to the House and Senate wings, one clerk, and wages of mechanics, gardeners, and workmen, $50,000. Mr. Vest. I hope the Senate will not concur in that amendment of the committee in line 1532, striking out “pay of landscape architect.” I know of no reason why The Terraces. 1219 this should be done, and I know of many reasons why it should not be done. This officer, Mr. Olmsted, I will say, having served on the Committee on Public Buildings since I have been in the Senate, is one of the very best and most competent officers in the employ of the Government. He is not only in my judgment but in that of the senior Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill], who has been for years on that com- mittee; the most accomplished landscape architect certainly in this country, if not in the world; and to show what sort of a man he is I want to make this statement to the Senate. In 1874, upon the recommendation of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, the annual salary of this officer was fixed at §4,000. It was thought to be a reasonably just compensation for the work he was expected to perform. The next year, upon his own motion, which is unprecedented in the annals of this Government so far as I know, he declined to have §4,000 and took §2,000, and has not received more than that any one year since. He conscientiously declined to take more than half the amount appropriated for his salary. More than this, I will state another fact, that this officer has ■ never made an overestimate. All the estimates he lias made have been found to be exact and correct. If this office is abolished — for that is what the amendment amounts to — it virtually stops all improvement around the Capitol. It leaves no one to attend to these grounds. Mr. Clark, the Architect of the Capitol building, has nothing to do with the grounds around the Capitol, and does not propose to have anything to do with them. It may be that Mr. Olmsted has made some mistakes in matters of taste, and I might quote the old maxim, de guslibus non est disputandum. In matters of taste of course there can be no unanimity of opinion and feeling; but I do undertake to say that this officer is invaluable to the Government. Unless we propose now to abandon these grounds, to say that the Capitol of the United States shall be treated as any private building, upon economical grounds solely, without regard to taste or beauty, or without regard to having such grounds as are worthy of this great structure or worthy of this great Government, I protest from what 1 know of this gentleman and of his services that this amendment should not be adopted. Mr. Allison. I f the Senator will allow me I desire to suggest that I agreed with the Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill], who is engaged in conference in reference to the tariff bill, not to pass this paragraph, as he desired to be present during its con- sideration. I hope there will be no objection to passing it over for the present. Mr. Vest. Of course I should like the Senator from Vermont to be here, because I know he would agree with me. This same attempt was made last year and he resisted it; but my friend will permit me to suggest to him that the best way would be to withdraw the amendment and let this officer take this thing which he has earned as faithfully and honestly as any man who ever rendered service to his country. Mr. Allison. That would be a great relief, but I have not that power. I ask that the amendment be passedover until the Senator from Vermont comes in. The President pro tempore. Is there objection to the suggestion? The Chair hears none, and the amendment will be passed over. * * * The Presiding Officer. The reading of the bill has been concluded. The Chair is informed by the Secretary that on page 63 of the bill the lines from 1529 to 1534 have not yet been acted on, having been passed over. The amendment will be read. The Acting Secretary. The reserved amendment is, in line 1532, after “wings,” to strike out “pay of landscape architect;” and in line 1533, before “thousand,” to strike out “sixty-five” and insert “fifty;” so as to make the clause read: For improving the Capitol grounds: For continuing the work of the improvement of the Capitol grounds, including permanent approaches to the House and Senate wings, one clerk, and wages of mechanics, gardeners, and workmen, 350,000. 1220 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Frye. That was left out on account of the absence of the Senator from Ver- mont [Mr. Morrill]. Mr. Hawley. I hope the Senate will non-concur with the committee here. I agree with the Senator from Missouri [Mr. Vest] in saying what I am sure the Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill], who is absent, would say if he were here: that this gentleman is one of the most valuable officers we have connected with our service, a gentleman of the very highest character; one who certainly would not take, if it were offered him, more than he considers his services to be worth; for the Senator from Missouri reminded us a while ago that when his salary was fixed at $4,000 and he found the duties were less than he expected, it being then a discretionary appro- priation, he told the committee to make it $2,000. I think the work done about the Capitol in the last six or eight years shows what his skill is. He stands as high as any man in the world in that business. Mr. Frye. I understand that is what the Senator from Vermont would desire to say, if here. Mr. Hawley. I suppose so. It is in entire concurrence with the remarks made by the Senator from Missouri. Mr. Allison. I am very glad to know what the salary of this landscape architect is. The committee were unable to ascertain it in any way. They understand he made casual visits here, and we thought perhaps he might forego his pay for a short time. The Senate will do as it pleases. Mr. Morrill. What is the question, Mr. President? The President pro tempore. The question is on the amendment, striking out “pay of landscape architect.” Mr. Morrill. Mr. President, I trust this will not be stricken out. The landscape architect has performed the most valuable service in relation to beautifying the grounds about the Capitol of any man we have ever employed. He is a most unsel- fish man and has been in the employ of the Government for some years at a salary fixed at $4,000, onfe-half of which he immediately relinquished when he found he was not employed all the time, and he has been paid but half the salary allowed. He would perhaps prefer to continue until the grounds are completed without any salary, but I trust for services so valuable as those he has rendered and will yet ren- der we may not strike a blow at a very deserving man and one who confessedly stands at the head of his profession, whether in this country or in any other. Mr. Edmunds. Who fixed this salary? Mr. Morrill. It was fixed by law some years ago. Mr. Edmunds. Was it fixed by law? Mr. Morrill. By law ten years ago. It was $4,000, but he has not taken more than half of it for many years. Mr. Edmunds. Is it still $4,000 by law? Mr. Hawley. I was told by the Architect of the Capitol to-day that originally there was a lump appropriation out of which they paid him $4,000, but it has since been fixed. He declined that and requested that it be reduced; and it has since been fixed at $2,000 a year, as I understood Mr. Clark to say. Mr. Allison. I should like the Senator from Connecticut and the Senator from Vermont to tell us who fixes this salary. Mr. Hawley. I said I supposed it was now fixed by law. Some years ago, before the present rule was adopted, it was included in a lump appropriation; but there was some statute passed providing that there should be no salary that was not spe- cifically provided for. Mr. Davis, of West Virginia. Will one of the Senators tell me how much time each year this gentleman, Mr. Olmsted, spends here, or about how much? Mr. Morrill. 1 can hardly tell that, for I have not asked him. He comes here very frequently and spends as much time as is necessary, and employs his time at home in making drawings for work to be done here. The Terraces. 1221 Mr. Ingalls. What service is to be performed in connection with the public grounds? Mr. Morrill. How they are to be made, and plans for the improvement. Mr. Ingalls. Does that include anything except the public grounds about the Capitol? Mr. Morrill. None. Mr. Ingalls. I had supposed the practical work of laying out these grounds, and the ornamental planting was completed, and it seems to me superfluous to continue a landscape gardener at a large salary to come on here occasionally to inspect the result of his labors. I admit that great effects have been accomplished, although I think they have been achieved at an inordinate expense, and perhaps not in pur- suance of any definite and well-ascertained plan, for I observe work that has been done one year has been undone the next. Mr. Morrill. Not by this man. Mr. Ingalls. And we are expending a great deal of money that nobody seems to know anything about; and inasmuch as the $4,000 originally allowed him was con- fessedly so excessive that he only took half of it, 1 should suppose that if the work was done he might be willing to relinquish the remainder. In this connection 1 should like some information in regard to the amount of work going on at the north entrance of the Capitol. I observe that there is an approach and an ornamental marble terrace that is being constructed out of some appropria- tion. I have inquired a great many times to know under what authority,- or under whose plan or by what sanction that work is being done ; how much is to be expended ; what is contemplated, and when it is to be completed; and I have never yet been able to learn any satisfactory solution of that problem. Mr. Allison. It is paid for out of an appropriation in similar phraseology to that in this clause. Mr. Ingalls. The Senator from Iowa, chairman of the committee, informs me that that work is paid for out of some appropriation similar to the one we are now con- sidering. Mr. Edmunds. The appropriation for the Capitol grounds year after year. Mr. Ingalls. If the outlines of the work have been accomplished and the planting has been done, I can see no reason for continuing the service of the landscape gardener. Mr. Hawley. Not gardener, architect. Mr. Morrill. I wish to say in the first place that there has been no work done here and then taken away since this architect has been employed. Whatever he has done has been completed perfectly according to the plan and remains at the present time. Nor has there been an underestimate; there has never been any appropriation made for any deficiency. This plan was adopted many years ago and accepted by Congress, and it does contemplate further service on the part of this land- scape architect. It included the approaches to the west front of the Capitol, and I am almost ashamed of Congress that we allow those miserable stair-ways to remain there without making some appropriation by which we can replace them with some- thing more appropriate to this grand building. Then it was contemplated, in addition, that there should be a terrace entirely around the west, north, and south sides, by which the appearance of this Capitol would be vastly improved, giving it the appearance of another story, and also fur- nishing accommodations for many needed committee-rooms and many rooms that are required for the storage of documents, papers, &c., for which we now- have no place. I may say that the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds this year offered an amendment and sent it to the Committee on Appropriations for the terrace on the north side, at an expense of only $80,000 for two hundred and fifty feet, in which there would be eighteen committee-rooms, as good and as perfect as any of those in 1222 Documentary History of the Capitol. the basement story of this building; and yet notwithstanding the Committee on Pub- lic Buildings and Grounds have not asked for a dollar this year, except in one single instance, some improvement of a building somewhere (I do not remember where), in contrast with the usual appropriations we had asked for of six or seven millions, I understand that the Committee on Appropriations have rejected even that contin- uation. I have nothing further to say on the subject. Mr. Beck. This matter was postponed until the Senator from Vermont could come in, and I desired not to say anything until he was here. He is here now, and there- fore I propose to say something. The difficulties we have had with regard to these Capitol grounds have been that your works have been laid out without any appropriation made by law. The Senator from Vermont sees fit to absent himself after I have waited on him all day, but I propose now to say what I rose to say whether he stays or not. The Senator from Vermont, the chairman of the committee — — Mr. Allison. The Senator from New Hampshire [Mr. Rollins] is chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. Mr. Beck. Plans have been laid out for grand approaches to this Capitol, which it is confessed will cost 8800,000, and which many of us believe will cost twice that sum. Perhaps it is a proper thing to do, but the law requires that before a great w( >rk of that sort shall be entered upon there shall be estimates made for it, that the plan shall be approved, that it shall be submitted, that it shall be considered. The Committee on Appropriations have never had an opportunity of ascertaining what was the estimate of the cost now referred to by the Senator from Vermont of these grand approaches to the Capitol about which he speaks. If they have, I have never heard of it. I care nothing about the wages of this architect; but I do insist that before we enter upon a great work which is to cost $800,000, or a million and a half of dollars perhaps, some estimate shall be made, some idea of the cost of it shall be given so that we shall not be appropriating at loose ends, a little here and a little there, and the work going on in defiance of appropriations. At the last session of Congress the Committee on Appropriations, not because they did not desire to see these approaches made, not because they did not desire to see this Capitol fairly improved, but because they could obtain no information in regard to it or the cost of it, cut down this appropriation to $25,000. The Senator from Connecticut [Mr. Hawley], the Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill], and others met us and complained as they are doing now. I have before me the short debate which occurred in the Senate last year on this subject. The Senator from Connecti- cut [Mr. Hawley] then said: * * * We have given in this bill $65,000, with the distinct understanding that we were not to enter on this great work that is to cost, as the Senator from Vermont told us yesterday, $800,000, and we believe a million and a half, without an estimate for it, without some idea being gi ,r en of how it will be done, by whom it is to be done, when it is to be done, and what is the probable cost. AVe appropriated $60,000 last year, and now we have begun “ approaches,” as they call it at the Senate end, which every Senator knows is only the beginning of a scheme. This work has been left in an imperfect condition all winter. The excuse made by the Senator from Connecti- cut last session was that we had to walk over planks to enter the Senate wing and that we ought not to do it, and therefore this work should be commenced. The Senator from A T ermont said $10,000 would do the work and the balance w'ould go for curbing; and here we are now just beginning, so as to compel us to go on little by little, and we are forced to do it whether we will or not. Mr. Hale. A\ T ill the Senator from Kentucky let me send up an amendment, which I propose after line 1534, which, perhaps, may meet his objection and the objection that has arisen in my mind as well as his? The Terraces. 1223 The Presiding Officer. The proposed amendment will be read for information. The Acting Secretary. At the end of line 1534 it is proposed to add: And hereafter all changes and improvements in the Capitol grounds, including approaches to the Capitol, shall be estimated for in detail, showing what modifications are proposed and the estimated cost of the same. Mr. Beck. That is exactly what I want. Mr. PIale. I think that ought to be done. Mr. Beck. That is all I want. 1 desire the Senator from Vermont and other gen- tlemen when they make their estimates to do so in such a way as to enable the Senate committees to examine them and give them their approval or disapproval according to law, and then perhaps I may vote as much as any one for these pur- poses. What I object to is proceeding as we have done at this corner of the Capitol to make a partial approach, leaving it in an imperfect condition and in such a shape that Congress is obliged to go on and complete it whether it desires to do so or not. I do not want Congress to be defied in that way. In this very bill we provide for the Albany post-office and custom-house, for which we have appropriated heretofore *800,000, with a statement that that would com- plete the building, and now they advise us that they can not buy the ground for less than §500,000, and a million and a half will be required to finish the building, and they do not propose to complete it for less, though they got the bill passed on the assurance that §800,000 would cover the entire cost. Some years ago we passed a bill for the New York city post-office and limited the total cost to §3,000,000. Three times by law we endeavored to curb them in the expenditure, and yet that building has cost us nine and a half millions. A similar thing occurred at Boston. We appropriated one and a half millions for a building there and it cost us four and a half millions. My object in using these illustrations is to show the defiance by executive officers of the Government and others of acts of Congress. I want the amendment of the Senator from Maine adopted; and then when the Senator from Vermont comes to us, as he did last year, and tells us we are to spend §10,000 for a little approach to the Senate wing in order to prevent our walking on plank and §50,000 for curbing, we can examine the plans and estimates and ascertain how much the cost is to be and limit it, instead of beginning work, as is now done, which every Senator can see is but the beginning of a great era of improvement. The Senator from Vermont says this will give us a number of rooms for committees and for the storage of books and papers. That is all well enough, but why not first get authority from Congress to do it? Why under pretense of doing one thing do another? Why defy us and say that these approaches at the west front of the Capitol are a disgrace and that Mr. Olmsted or anybody else is going to make them, as he thinks, creditable, without giving (pongress a chance to say what shall be done, how it shall be done, and what shall be the expense of doing it? These are the things of which I complain. I think the amendment of the Senator from Maine will cure the evil as far as we can do it by law. The only objection I have ever found to any of the work-about the Capitol is that I have never yet seen any one who could tell how much any particular work that is built around here is to cost or how much we finally pa}' for it. W e go on from year to year forcing a condition of things which requires further expenditures that Con- gress can not avoid making. Get rid of that condition of things and you may spend what you like. All the information I have about Mr. Olmsted is that he is an able and an honest man, a man who can be trusted; not an extortionate man; and I should be willing to pay him something. I do not quite approve of striking out his salary, but 1 think we ought to have some understanding about the work to be done, the expense of it, and how it is to be carried on. Mr. Rollins. Mr. President, in justice to Mr. Olmsted I think a letter which he 1224 Documentary History of the Capitol. addressed to the Joint Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds on the 30th of December last should be read, or at any rate published in the Record, and I will submit it. In this letter it will be seen that he at least thinks this work has been authorized by the previous action of Congress. He has made a careful estimate as to its cost. He says the whole work when completed will cost $800,000, and that when com- pleted ninety as good and convenient rooms as the average of the committee-rooms which we now have will be added to this building. The committee-rooms are very much needed. I desire simply to have this letter read, as it explains the situation very much better than anything I could say on the subject. The Presiding Officer. The letter will be read. The Acting Secretary read as follows: December 30, 1882. Sir: The work, designated in the act of Congress, “the permanent approach to the north wing of the Capitol,” has been advanced as far as it was possible to obtain the materials for it from the quarry, in the short interval between the last and the pres- ent sessions. It was necessary to the stability of the structure that, at the angle of the two lines of marble retaining wall, the masonry should be somewhat extended to the west- ward. To have carried it no farther than was strictly essential to this purpose would have left a raw, ragged, and unseemly piece of work, in conspicuously close connec- tion wit h the walls of the Capitol. Enough of the marble work upon the line of the north retaining wall of the terrace has been laid to avoid this result, the main wall being carried out at the bottom to the first vertical line of the design. Hearing from you that it has been questioned if this part of the work was author- ized, I beg to say that I have presumed the action of Congress in both Houses to represent the intention of your joint committee, and this intention to have proceeded from the considerations which I had the honor to lay before it early in the last ses- sion. The committee will remember that I then exhibited a series of plans, eleva- tions, and other illustrations of the entire terrace, and advised that the work should be begun at the points since designated “permanent approaches to the north and south wings.” The reason for this advice was that a moderate appropriation would enable so much of the plan to be carried to completion, in the intervals of the ses- sions of Congress, as would supersede the existing make-shift plank walks, of which complaint had been made by Senators, and leave the ground free from incumbrances and disorder. Later, I aided the chairman of the House Committee on Public Build- ings and Grounds in presenting the jiroposition to the House Committee on Appro- priations, using the drawings, arguments, and estimates which had been prepared for your joint committee. At the close of the session, and a few hours before the vote was taken in the Senate fixing the appropriation, I also explained the proposi- tion, using the same drawings and the same arguments to several members of the Appropriations Committee of the Senate. In neither of the drawings used nor in any argument or representation made by me on these occasions were the permanent approaches shown or considered as con- structions detached from other parts of the terrace. The only drawing made espe- cially to illustrate the proposition, the adoption of which I advised, distinctly pre- sented that portion of the work called in question. This drawing now hangs on the walls of the House Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. I had no reason to suppose, nor did it ever occur to me, that any member of Congress, among all to whom the drawings were exhibited, could suppose that the construction ordered would be advisable except as a part of the entire plan of the terrace. This, as a whole, had years before been adopted by Congress, and the entire work under my direction had from the outset been accommodated to it. The Terraces. 1225 All of the essential facts thus recalled being of record with your committee or within the personal knowledge of its members, I do not think that the slight amount of work that has been done incidentally to the construction of what is, strictly speak- ing, the “ approach ” to the Capitol from the north, the object being as stated, will be regarded as unwarrantable. I take this occasion to observe that the stone, brick, concrete, and marble work that has been done under this first appropriation for the terrace exhibits the quality and character of nearly all of the work intended. The cost has been within the esti- mated amount, and a new estimate has been made for the entire work upon the basis of prices thus experimentally determined, the result of which tallies closely with that presented to your committee before the adoption of the design by Congress in 1874. At these prices, the cost of advancing the terrace along the entire north face of the Capitol, a distance of two hundred and fifty feet, and of providing within it an addi- tion of eighteen large rooms to the basement accommodations of the Capitol, will be $80,000; the cost of the entire terrace and stair-ways, with an addition to the accom- modations of the Capitol of ninety rooms of the average dimensions of the present committee-rooms, will be $800,000. Very respectfully yours, Fred’k Law Olmsted, Landscape Architect. Hon. E. H. Rollins, Chairman of the Joint Committee of Congress on Public Buildings and Grounds. Mr. Hale. Mr. President, the amendment which I have offered is not intended to censure Mr. Olmsted, nor in any way to disparage his work about the Capitol aud the Capitol grounds. I suppose that his reputation has already been established, and that it rests upon works fully as enduring as any to be found about the Capitol or in Washington; but all the same it is better that we should know and that Con- gress should know beforehand just what is contemplated in the future touching these grounds and this structure. The letter which has just been read shows that it is contemplated to make some very radical changes in the form and face and appearance of this building. It may be, and quite likely is, the fact that all of the work touched upon in the letter should be done, giving to this Capitol the effect of another story, so that it should appear to be elevated, so that the proportion will to the human eye seem more harmonious. But that is a matter surrounded by so much doubt and by so many questions that it is very proper that before the work is entered upon it should be estimated for in detail; and we. should know just what is projected, and whether it is better to throw out a terrace giving the effect of a basement story with large rooms, committee-rooms, storage-rooms, or whatever you will, t hereby changing the appearance of this Cap- itol that has stood here for so many years. That is a thing which ought to be settled fully beforehand, and it ought not be entered upon under any general appropriation that is not fully understood and that does not in terms teach to every Senator and Member of Congress just what is to be undertaken. I hope nobody will object to the amendment I have offered, which is in the line not of censure or disparagement but of security in the future. Mr. Rollins. Let the amendment be read. The Presiding Officer. The proposed amendment will be read. The Acting Secretary. After line 1534 it is proposed to add: And hereafter changes and improvements in the Capitol grounds, including approaches to the Capitol, shall he estimated for in detail, showing what modifications are proposed and the estimated cost of the same. Mr. Rollins. I do not think there is any objection to that. Mr. Hawley. It is right. 1226 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Hale. I did not think there would be any objection. The Presiding Officer. The first question is on the amendment of the committee striking out “pay of landscape architect” in line 1532. Mr. Hawley. We do not wish to strike that out. The Presiding Officer. The Chair does not understand that that amendment is pressed. Mr. Rollins. 1 understood the committee to concede that the amendment may not be agreed to. Mr. Hale. The chairman is not here; but he has no objection I believe to that course. The Presiding Oe'ficer. The amendment will be regarded as withdrawn unless there be objection. The Chair hears none. The question now is on the amendment proposed by the Senator from Maine [Mr. Hale]. Mr. Jones, of Florida, I see no objection whatever to the amendment of the Senator from Maine. The Presiding Officer. The Chair understands that there is an amendment in the summing up which will fall with the other. Mr. Jones, of Florida. We have been going on in a very loose way for years with respect to the improvement of the Capitol grounds, and a great deal has been left to the discretion of the architect. It is not his fault that we have not prescribed the exact line of improvements that ought to be carried out. When it comes to an alteration of the building as now proposed, I think that ought to be done under the authority of Congress. But I wish particularly to say a word in reply to the Senator from Kentucky, who has adverted to an evil hitherto complained of very generally in our legislation; I mean with respect to the cost of our public buildings. I think a great deal of the responsibility for the increased cost of our public build- ings lies with the Committee on Appropriations, of which the Senator from Kentucky is a distinguished member. We have a Joint Committee of the House and Senate on Public Buildings and Grounds that has usually been intrusted with the consideration of these matters, and we have been in the habit of making appropriations fixing precisely the sum of money to be expended in the construction of buildings. Every bill, I know, that was passed through the committee of the Senate while I was chair- man for a year or so limited the amount that the building should cost, and prohibited any further expenditure of money; but it has happened in many instances that after the amount appropriated under the recommendation of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds was expended parties would go before the Committee on Appropriations, outside of the other committee, and get additions to the sum. There are large sums of money in the present bill now under consideration which are intended to be appropriated to finish public buildings that have never been considered by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, and many of them without any recommendation from that committee. Mr. Allison. Does the Senator speak of items put on in the Senate? Mr. Jones, of Florida. Ko; I do not say by the Senate, but they are in the bill that came from the House. The Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds is a joint committee, and in the majority of cases I think the items were put on by the House Appropriations Committee without the action of the Committee on Public Buildings at all. Mr. Hale. Mr. President, let us have a vote. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment of the Senator from Maine [Mr. Hale]. Mr. Rollins. I think there is no objection to that. The amendment was agreed to. The Presiding Officer. The amendment proposing a change of the sum has not The Terraces. 1227 been acted on. The Chair was under the impression that it was a mere footing, but he finds that it was not. Mr. Hawley. I hope that it will be non-concurretl in. Mr. Rollins. I think there is no disposition to reduce the amount. The Presiding Officer. The amendment is to strike out “$65,000” and insert “ $50,000,” in line 1533. The amendment was rejected. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-four, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1883. (Stats, at Large, v. 22, p. 621.)] For improving the Capitol grounds: For continuing the work of the improvement of the Capitol grounds, including permanent approaches to the House and Senate wings, pay to landscape architect, one clerk, and wages of mechanics, gardeners, and workmen, sixty-five thousand dollars; and hereafter all changes and improvements in the grounds, including approaches to the Capitol, shall be estimated for in detail, showing what modifications are proposed and the estimate of the cost of the same. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, July 1, 1883. (48 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 2, p. 387.)] As relates to the improvement of these grounds, Mr. Frederick Law Olmsted, landscape architect, says in his annual report that — During the last year the north terrace approach has been built, and Congress at its last session ordered the corresponding work on the south of the Capitol. In the debate of the question apprehensions appeared that the plan of the larger work, of which these approaches are initial steps, had not been maturely considered, and that its ultimate cost could be but vaguely conjectured. Directions were consequently given that Congress should be supplied at the coming session with detailed informa- tion upon the subject. The plan of the terrace was prepared under a commission which I had the honor to receive from Congress in 1874. It was submitted the following year in the form of large drawings of every part. A detailed estimate of the cost was at the same time presented, accompanied by offers from builders of the highest standing to contract for the work at the prices named. After prolonged consideration in joint committee, the proposition was adopted as a part of the general plan for the improvement of the Capitol grounds. Since then the entire work of the terrace has been twice re-estimated in accordance with the market prices of the day. The last of these adjustments was made in 1882, and was based on the actual cost of the work then under contract upon the north terrace approach. The rate thus established made the cost of the terrace entire about five per cent, less than the estimate originally given to Congress. Early in the last session this last estimate was laid before the Joint Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, and at the time of the debate of the subject in the Senate was on file in your office. I do not know that it can yet be at all improved upon, and in order to meet the requirements of a detailed estimate to be presented at the opening of the next session, I will request, if you see no objection, that it may be printed precisely in its original form. From the annual and occasional reports that I have prepared, and which have been printed for the information of Congress, in addition to the facts above stated, it will be apparent that if I have failed to take the measures necessary to secure considera- tion for the plans and estimates of the terrace it can have been only from reluctance 1228 Documentary History of the Capitol. to exhibit a zeal in the premises which might be thought to carry me beyond the proper lines of my professional duty. I hope that the small section of the terrace that has now been built, though at a point where the least advantage of the work can be realized, will be found to sustain, as far as it goes, the view of its value that I have at every suitable opportunity, in concurrence with you, sought to present. It is respectfully urged that an appropriation may be made at the coming session for the construction of at least so much of the terrace as is required at the north and south of the building, namely, nineteen bays, including the piers, the estimated cost of which is one hundred and thirty-eight thousand seven hundred and seven dollars and thirty-three cents (§138,707.33). [Senate proceedings of Dec. 3, 1883: Congressional Record, 48 — 1, v. 37.] Mr. Morrill asked and, by unanimous consent, obtained leave to introduce a bill (8. 402) for the completion of the Capitol terraces and the stairways connected there- with; which was read twice by its title, and ordered to lie on the table to be referred to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds when appointed. [House of Representatives, Ex. Doc. No. 9, 48th Congress, 1st Session. Letter from the Secretary of the Treasury, transmitting estimates for proposed Terrace and approaches for the United States Capitol, Washington, D. C. December 5, 1883. Referred to the Committee on Appropriations and ordered to be printed.] Treasury Department, December 5, 1883. 8ir: Referring to the estimate for constructing terrace on the north and south of the Capitol, under the title “improving Capitol grounds,” on page 140 of the Annual Book of Estimates for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1885, 1 have the honor to trans- mit herewith the details of the proposed work submitted with the estimate, but which it was not found practicable to publish as appendix thereto. Very respectfully, Chas. J. Folger, Secretary. Hon. John G. Carlisle, Speaker of the House of Representatives. Architect’s Office, United States Capitol, Washington, D. C., September 27, 1883. Sir: A clause in the act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1884, approved March 3, 1883, pro- vides that: Hereafter all changes and improvements in the grounds, including approaches to the Capitol, shall be estimated for iu detail, showing what modifications are proposed and the estimated cost of the same. In pursuance of the above I have the honor to submit the estimate for the improve- ment of the Capitol grounds, and also for the proposed terrace of the north and south of the Capitol, or so much thereof as is represented on the plan, marked A and M, which will be found with Mr. Olmsted’s estimate. No changes or modifications of the plans are proposed. The Terraces . 1229 IMPROVING CAPITOL GROUNDS AND CARE THEREOF. For pay-rolls for mechanics, gardeners, and laborers $24, 000 For 17,080 superficial feet cement pavement at western grounds, at 40 cents. 6, 832 For 2,248 linear feet bluestone steps, including foundations, at $3.75 8, 430 For 384 linear feet platforms, at $4.50 1, 728 For excavating and carting 500 For manure 400 For plants 500 For bronze lamps 3, 200 For landscape architect’s salary 2, 000 For pavement and granite curb for circle at Maryland avenue and First street west 2, 400 For walls, pavement, and rock work in circle 700 For plumbing and drainage 200 For brick, lime, sand, and cement 1, 110 Total 52, 000 PROPOSED TERRACE AND APPROACHES FOR THE UNITED STATES CAPITOL, WASHINGTON, D. C. Bill of quantities and estimate of cost. Note. — Ninety-five per cent, of the terrace will consist of brick, granite, and mar- ble of the same quality and workmanship as that of the work already done in the “ north approach.” The prices in the present estimate are in no case less than those at which this portion of the work has been actually executed, in certain portions remaining to be done larger blocks of marble (with a different treatment) are pro- posed to be used than in the north approach, and in these cases a price has been taken at which such blocks are offered and supplied for other Government works in Washington. The unimportant items not thus verified are of common material and workman- ship, such as interior plastering and joiners’ work, the market rates for which are well established. The sum of $25,000 is allowed for excavations of earth and piling, which may prove necessary for the security of the foundations. The estimate is divided into sections designated, respectively, A, B, C, D, E, F, G, Id, I, J, K, L, and M, these letters referring to the skeleton plan attached hereto. The work is to be done in accordance with the plans and elevations before the Joint Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. * * * GENERAL RECAPITULATION. Estimate cost of — , Section A $74, 418 57 Section B 21, 584 47 Section C 85, 778 87 Section D 34,851 15 Section E 13,022 29 Section F 93, 174 32 Section G (one-half) 59,464 82 Cost of north half Cost of south half Cost of south approach Piling and grading... Total cost 814, 588 98 Fred’k Law Olmsted, Landscape Architect. $382, 294 49 382, 294 49 25, 000 00 25, 000 00 [Diagrams omitted.] 1230 Documentary History of the Capitol. The estimated cost of the terraces and grand stairways, which is furnished by Mr. Frederick Law Olmsted, landscape architect, has been carefully made out and revised. The entire cost of this improvement, as shown above, is $814, 588 88 There should be deducted from this amount that estimated for work already done, viz: Approach $25,000 00 Two 10-foot bays 2,687 82 One bay of terrace 7,448 85 35, 136 67 Cost of work yet to be done 779,452 31 The sum required to construct the terraces at the north and south of the Capitol, marked on plan A and M, is $138,708.47, which amount is asked for the service during the fiscal year ending June 30, 1885. Very respectfully, Edward Clark, Architect United States Capitol. Hon. Henry M. Teller, Secretary of the Interior. [Senate proceedings of Jan. 14, 1884: Congressional Record, 48—1, p. 371.] Mr. Morrill, from the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, to whom was referred the bill (8. 402) for the completion of the Capitol terraces and the stairways connected therewith, reported it without amendment. [Senate proceedings of Feb. 6, 1884: Congressional Record, 48 — 1, p. 911.] CAPITOL TERRACES AND STAIRWAYS. The bill (S. 402) for the completion of the Capitol terraces and the stairways connected therewith, was considered as in Committee of the Whole. It proposes to appropriate $777,588.98, or so much thereof as may be necessary, for the construction of the terraces along the north, south, and west fronts of the Capi- tol, and for the two grand stairways at the western front, at the head of Pennsyl- vania and Maryland avenues; the same to be erected in accordance with the plan already furnished by Frederick Law Olmsted, landscape architect. Mr. Morrill. Mr. President, this is a bill in accordance with the plans adopted by Congress in 1874. It is to be regretted, perhaps, that this part of the plan had not been first completed, but there was such a pressure for roads and tracks approach- ing the Capitol that it w r as deferred. If Senators will send for Executive Document No. 9 of the present Congress they wall find a plat describing the whole plan and the estimated cost. Mr. Ingalls. How much has been expended already? Mr. Morrill. About $50,000. I desire to say that when this plan is completed it will be in harmony with the grounds as they are already laid out. It is to complete the approaches on the west front of the Capitol with more imposing and handsomer stairways, and it is also to substitute a marble terrace in lieu of the present dirt ter- race, which looks perhaps weak and incongruous with so large a building as the Capitol. I will say that when the terrace shall be completed there will be ten additional committee-rooms, equal to the very best, in the basement of the Capitol, half of them perhaps for the House, and half for the Senate. It will also have seventy -four other rooms from 20 to 40 feet long and about 20 feet wide for the storage of documents and of wood, coal, and various things that are necessary to the Capitol, and much in The Terraces. 1231 the way elsewhere. Then there will be an underground railway at one end or the other for the admission of coal and documents, without daily crowding and interfer- ing with the entrance of the Senate or of the House for their introduction. I think any persons who have ever fully examined the matter will concede that it will be a vast improvement to the appearance of the Capitol and a great accommo- dation and convenience to the practical operations in and around this building. I ask, as I do not desire to take up time, that I may have, as a part of my remarks, published in the Record an interview of the landscape architect, who is confessedly now perhaps superior to any person living on this continent or any other in his peculiar art of landscape architecture. \ ask to have the interview which appeared in the Evening Star, or a portion of it, printed in the Record, that it may "be seen hereafter by those who may choose to investigate the subject. Mr. Cockrell. I should like to ask the Senator from Vermont what is the esti- mated cost of the entire completion of tire work under the plan? Mr. Morrill. The estimated cost of the entire completion is $777,588.98. Mr. Ingalls. When will it be done? Mr. Morrill. In two years. The whole amount is proposed to be appropriated at once in order that contracts may be made for the materials. Probably not over one- half the sum will be required during the present year. Mr. Van Wyck. May I ask the Senator if he has the figures showing what the work has already cost, so far as it has been done? Mr. Morrill. So far as this matter is concerned, about $50,000. Mr. Van Wyck. Fifty thousand dollars for what has been done? Mr. Morrill. On the north and south sides and in front. Mr. Ingalls. Mr. President, I think if we are to vote intelligently upon this sub- ject we should be possessed of all the information which the Senator from Vermont has. The printing of the “interview” in the Record will not enlighten the intellect of any Senator who is called upon to vote this morning; and I would, therefore, suggest that if the alleged “interview” contains any information that is pertinent to the subject or would be advantageous, the bill lie over until to-morrow morning in order that we may read it. Mr. Morrill. I hope the Senator will not insist on that. I think I have given in substance the information that is contained in the interview, but there are some details of the matter here that I think will be found to be interesting reading to those who desire to see it. The additional space to be gained will be 1,300 feet long by 60 feet wide. It states various other small points. But 1 think I have given a sufficient amount of information to justify the Senator from Kansas in voting for the bill. The “interview” referred to by Mr. Morrill is as follows: THE CAPITOL BUILDING — PROPOSED IMPROVEMENT OF ITS ARCHITECTURAL CHARACTER. An explanation of the plan now being carried out — Architectural defects to be cured by the marble terrace — An interview with Mr. Frederick Laic Olmsted — The old plan of the grounds modified to meet the require- ments of the modern building — A movement wherein Washington city leads the world, iScc. The work on the marble approaches at the northeast corner of the Senate wing and the southeast corner of the House wing of the Capitol has progressed so far that one may form some judgment of the architectural effects which the comprehensive plan of improvement of which these approaches are a part is designed to produce. These approaches have been built in accordance with the design adopted by Congress in 1874, the chief feature of which is a terrace of marble, designed to supersede the present earthwork covering the basement story of the Capitol. The general plan of the grounds surrounding the Capitol has been made to harmonize with the contemplated improvement in the building when completed. The plan also makes allowance for the ultimate completion of the Capi- tol building itself according to Mr. Walter’s designs, which provide for an advance of 30 feet in the central portico. A stairway of graceful design and imposing dimensions is, according to the plan, to take the place of the present shabby and mean-looking steps leading to the main western entrance. The marble walls of the proposed terrace will vary in height at different points from 10 to 17 feet, as required to conform to the varying surface of the ground in which they rest. 1232 Documentary History of the Capitol. Additional room to be provided. While this plan is intended chiefly to enhance the architectural character of the building, the ter- race will add largely to the basement room of the Capitol. The additional space thus to be gained will be 1,300 feet long by 60 feet wide, divided into rooms opening from a central corridor. Ten of these correspond in form and dimensions with the best of the present committee-rooms, each having two or three windows looking upon the existing courts in the same manner as those of the Architect’s office in the basement. These courts are to be made attractive winter gardens. There will be, besides the rooms described, seventy-four rooms, varying from 20 to 44 feet in length and from 16 to 24 feet in breadth, most of which will resemble the present basement committee-rooms. These rooms, it is expected, will be used for the storage of coal, for the keeping of archives, for the temporary deposit of current documents, for extraordinary committee and clerks’ rooms when needed, and for other purposes, for which additional room is demanded. The plan of this floor provides for a sub- way by which coal, ashes, and all goods not desirable to be passed through the upper entrances may be conveyed underground to or from a postern in the Government work-yard on South B street. It provides also for an enlargement of the present boiler-rooms. The esplanade. The plan provides that the esplanade or deck of the terrace shall be divided into two parts, the division running midway between the outer walls of the present building and the outer walls of the proposed new work. The inner one of these two parts is to be level with the foot of the several short flights of steps now opening from the porticoes; the outer one four feet lower. The two levels are to be connected by flights of steps opposite those from the porticoes. In line with the lowerflights, and running parallel with the division between the two levels, there is to be a channel 8 feet wide, to be filled with soil and planted. In looking toward the Capitol from the grounds this division of the terrace into two decks will not be apparent, but the eye will range over it, and the marble of the front of the terrace be thus massed with the marble of the main building just above the granite base course of the latter. Openings will be made through the outer wall of the terrace garden for lighting and ventilating the corridor below. About 850,000 has been thus far expended on the work. The cost of completing it at the same rate will be about 8700,000. The work is carried on under the joint direction of Mr. Edward Clark, the Architect of the Capitol, and Mr. Frederick Law Olmsted, the landscape architect of the grounds. The inception of the plan. “Eight years ago,” said Mr. Olmsted, when asked by a Star reporter for information regarding the inception of the plan, “I was asked by the Joint Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds to come to Washington and examine the Capitol grounds, which had just- then been enlarged, with a view to a general scheme of improvement in adaptation to the enlarged Capitol. A great earthwork had been formed on three sides of the building from the material thrown out from its base, and this had been overlaid with turf, constituting a pedestal for the building, which I felt to be in various ways unsuitable. I concluded that no improvement of the Capitol grounds would be satisfactory while this great, incongruous earthwork interposed between it and the building. I therefore advised, as a preliminary step to a suitable design of the grounds, the adoption of an architectural terrace. This scheme was approved by Mr. Clark, the Architect of the Capitol; later by Mr. Walter, its original designer; then by the Joint Committee on Buildings and Grounds, and was finally adopted by Con- gress. The plan of the grounds since carried out is designed subordinately to it.” Why the turf terrace is objectionable. “The more obvious objections to the present earthwork,” explained Mr. Olmsted, “aside from its general inelegance, are: First, that it does not provide an adequately firm and stable footing for so ponderous a building when placed on a hillside — I mean that whatever the real security may be an adequate impression upon the mind in that respect is not made. The architectural terrace will pro- duce an adequate impression, and the greater apparent firmness and more enduring strength of the building thus obtained will add greatly to its grandeur. Second, it is impossible in a climate like this, and under the local conditions of the Capitol, that turf shall be kept in nice or even decent con- dition when laid, as in this case, on steep formal slopes. If it can be kept tolerably green, as it never has been at the Capitol through any single summer, it will still be thin, weak, and shabby, a condi- tion quite incongruous with the elegance of the superstructure. “Finally, there is a common impression, now obtained by many in looking at the Capitol, which is expressed in the saying that it is ‘squatty,’ and that its dome appears of disproportionate height and weight. If you will look at this drawing, which shows the Capitol with the proposed terrace, you will see that the grounds of such an impression have been wholly removed. “It was my expectation that the terrace would be built at once in advance of the improvement of the grounds. I have always regretted that it was not, because the design of the grounds is discon- certed by the presence of so conspicuous a feature, to which they are not at all fitted.” “Why was this not done?” The Terraces. 1233 “Simply because there was a more pressing necessity for proceeding with the roads and other approaches to the Capitol, and Congress was not disposed to make sufficient appropriations for this work, and that w'hich could be best done along with it and at the same time for the terrace.’’ Objections to the plan. “What objections have been raised to the plan?” “I know of but two; one, that the parapet would from certain points obstruct the view of the build- ing. This had, however, been provided for, as I have already explained, by the division of the terrace, which allows the top of the parapet to come below the plane of vision. The other is not really an objection to the terrace, but to the lack of more direct approaches to the building. There are twenty-one streets leading up to the boundary of the Capitol grounds. If lines of direct passage were to be kept open between all of these, and also between each of them and each door of the Capitol, it would be in every respect better to simply pave the entire area, as Michael Angelo did that of the great open place before St. Peter’s, and depend for scenery solely on architectural works, fountains, obelisks, and loggias. But that was not the intention of Congress. To have any suitable sylvan and verdant effect it was necessary to secure some spaces of undisturbed breadth of surface. These have been secured at the least possible expense of directness and amplitude of transcom- munication. They are all too few and too limited. To split them further into fragments would be ruinous.” “ Why is granite being used instead of marble on the face of w^all between the upper and the lower terrace?” “Because,” said Mr. Olmsted, “marble would be unpleasantly glaring. It will not be seen in any general view of the building, and there is no reason why this relief should not be given to those walking on the terrace.” The removal of trees. “I would like,” said the reporter, “to know something about the removal of trees on the Capitol grounds?” “I have been told,” said Mr. Olmsted, smiling, “that an impression has become fixed in many minds that I have ruthlessly destroyed many fine old trees. Near the close of the last session of Con- gress a member who shared this impression held me up to public odium as a vandal on account of it. I have since received a note from him acknowledging that he bad been misinformed as to the facts and expressing regret that he should have made the statement. Some years before I was called to look at the ground, the District board of works had lowered the grade of the street on the east of the Capitol so that it appeared a great unfinished canal, and to pass from it toward the Capitol it was necessary to climb a bank in some places eight feet high. In doing this work the best of the large trees of the Capitol grounds had been partially undermined. It was absolutely necessary that open- ings should be made toward the Capitol on the level of the street. The question is, was it worth while to attempt to design a plan by which these openings could be made, leaving ridges between them to sustain a part of the old trees? I was advised that Congress had assumed that it would not be worth while, and after a careful examination of the trees I fully concurred in this judgment. The trees had been grown under most unfavorable circumstances, had been much misused, and were all in a decaying condition— I mean the older and larger trees, the loss of which has been so much felt. They had but a few years of life left in them, and had been planted upon a plan adapted to a ground of half the extent and to a building of less than half the dimensions of the present. I was instructed to lay out the grounds with reference to permanent arrangements in connection with the larger building and upon the larger scale. Before doing so I had a thorough expert survey of the trees made, the condition and prospects of each being noted. Nearly all of the larger trees on the east ground were found to be in a decaying condition. Such as were not were marked to be left where they were if practicable, and where they could not be left to be transplanted. If I remember rightly there were a hundred and thirty of the latter class, averaging a foot in diameter." “ How many of them are now living?” “More than nine-tenths, certainly. Notone died in consequence of its removal. Two or three have been badly injured by storms, others by gas leaks, but nearly all are now in a much more flour- ishing condition than before their removal.” “You have been speaking of the east ground only,” said the reporter. “ True. On the west there were three avenues, like this. [Mr. Olmsted illustrated by drawing a rough diagram of the west grounds as it originally appeared, with an avenue through the center in addition to the two now existing.] Upon each side of these avenues stood rows of trees, mostly old silver maples. These thin w'edges of green between the avenues had no landscape value. The plan adopted at my suggestion threw out the center avenue, trees and all. Now there are two approaches from the west, one from Maryland avenue, and one from Pennsylvania avenue, with a simple, quiet, unbroken spread of turf between them. This, I think, has some value. The rows of old trees W'ere left on the old avenues retained, but provision was made for the future by setting out rows of young trees outside of them and widening the walks. Several of the old trees still remain, and you can see what their condition is, and from it judge, what the condition must have been of the trees that have been removed. Nearly every storm brings down some of their limbs.” H. Rep. 646 78 1234 Documentary History of the Capitol. A movement in which Washington leads the world. Mr. Olmsted, in answer to the reporter’s inquiries, expressed himself as much admiring the general appearance of Washington city in its later aspect. “The tendency of all flourishing cities now is,” he observed, “to divide into more and more distinct districts of residence apart from districts of work and trade, and in these to spread out — to increase more rapidly in extent relatively to population than cities have done hitherto. It results that streets are made wider, building sites larger, and trees and gardens are multiplied. In this movement Washington is leading the world, and, in the main, leading it finely. More than any other of our cities it is acquiring distinctively American character- istics, as of a state or society that has escaped from the necessity of town walls and from the restraints of monopolizing landlords, that can afford to march on in open order, and to straggle a little into the woods and meadows. “Progress in this rus-urban direction,” continued Mr. Olmsted, “may be seen to have been very considerable during the last twenty years in nearly all the notable towns of Europe — Rome, Florence, Milan, Genoa, Paris, Brussels, Frankfort, London, and Liverpool, for example. In all of these the country is coming into the town and the town stretching out into the country; and if we look back a century or two it will appear probable that we are now in the middle of a movement, the final result of which will be that to live in the compact blocks hitherto characteristic of towns will be thought a great hardship, if not positively barbarous. In time the beauty of towns will be found to lie largely in a form of scenery, of which the interest will consist, not in what we now call their decorations, but in the grouping of stately bodies of foliage with architectural masses. Hints about trees and shrubbery. “You ask if I have no criticisms to make upon what has been done,” he continued. “ From my professional point of view there are two defects that may be worth noticing. I am afraid that the street trees have not yet been given sufficient spaces of soil, and that unless these are soon enlarged their growth will be checked and they will become weakly and stunted as their roots attempt to push beyond the pits in which they are planted. On account of the health of the trees, also, the fashion of substituting concrete or asphalt for brick as a surface for the sidewalks is to be regretted. The other defect to which I refer grows out of an excessive use of herbaceous decorations on the street fronts of private houses. These are to be seen in perfection only for a short period, and during those parts of the year when the city is most occupied and visited the ground given to them is apt to appear positively forlorn. Another thing: it is difficult to keep deep grass slopes in nice order in this climate — impossible, I may say, except by a large annual bill of expense. Slopes formed upon long, graceful lines instead of being made formal, stiff, abrupt, and angular, as seems to be the fashion for the time, will be much nicer. There is room for a great improvement in this way, and also in a more general use of evergreen shrubbery and vines. In the selection of planting material for private places along the streets it is very desirable that plants should be selected that appear to advantage early in the spring and late in the fall, if not during the entire winter. The contrasts to be now observed in this respect as one drives through the streets are instructive.” Mr. Ingalls. It is rather a novel method of conveying information on a matter that nvolves the expenditure of a million dollars to have an “interview” published in the newspapers printed in the Record the day after the bill is to be voted upon. I am free to say that the progress of the work so far does not I think justify any very sanguine expectations as to the great results that are predicted by the Sena- tor from Vermont. As I understand him, there are to be ten additional committee- rooms provided. I can not understand how they can be provided except in some subterranean portion of the structure, so that they will be practically a part of the cellar of the edifice, rather than rooms that are calculated for human habitation. In this connection I may say also that, without any pretense to architectural knowl- edge, without having had my intelligence trained by the contemplation of the great marvels of antiquity or- of other lands than our own, I am not able to see that any- thing has been specifically accomplished in the work which has been hitherto done. The approach on the north side of the Capitol seems to be more in the nature of an excavation or a canal than an appropriate and dignified approach to a majestic struc- ture like this; and the pavement has been so arranged that with every waterfall the entire surface is covered with a rippling stream that renders the whole space practi- cally inundated, and it appears to me will result in serious injury to the remainder of the building unless other arrangements have been made for drainage than now appear. Beyond that, the material that has been employed for the pavement seems to be insufficient. It is already in many places cracked; it has yielded to the elements or else has been insufficiently laid, and I observe also that the joints in that portion of The Terraces. 1235 the terrace that is constructed of Scottish granite, I believe, have already begun to separate and part, admitting the approach of water and the introduction of frost; so that unless something is to be done that differs from what has already been accom- plished, I confess I should like to be further informed than I am at present upon a subject so important as this. In this connection while we are speaking about tne architecture of the Capitol and the various improvements that may be made, I want to suggest to the Senator from Vermont whether it would not be appropriate to make some provision at this time for the removal of that most incongruous group of statuary which now stands at the entrance of the grounds on Pennsylvania avenue. Sorrow, Mr. President, is usually secluded; men do not go into the market-place to weep for departed friends or in consequence of bereavement; and nations never mourn. So far as that group of statuary is concerned, it seems to me that it should be removed at once to some adja- cent cemetery. It would be entirely appropriate upon some grassy plain by a still sheet of water and surrounded by weeping willows and other foliage that indicates the grief and melancholy of nature; but placed at the very entrance to the grounds of the Capitol, surrounded by fifteen-cent lodging houses and beer shops, and amid the continuous din and uproar of street-cars and herdics and vehicles going to and fro, with its snowy surface covered continuously with the feculent dust of the high- ways, I confess that it never has ceased to offend my sense of the appropriate and the decorous since it was first erected. I do not know who has charge of these matters, but inasmuch as this bill for the continuation of the architectural decoration of the Capitol and its completion ema- nates from the committee of which the Senator from Vermont is the chairman, I would suggest that he take this subject also into consideration. I hope before we are called upon to act on this measure we shall have at least the information of which the Senator from Vermont is possessed. Mr. Morrill. Mr. President, I suppose we are all thankful that we have given the opportunity to the Senator from Kansas to distinguish himself as he always can in attacking any measure that comes before the Senate. The Presiding Officer. The Senator will allow the Chair to interpose. It is the duty of the Chair to remind him that under the rule he can speak but once. The Chair will regard it as the unanimous consent of the Senate that the Senator pro- ceed. [“Go on.”] Mr. Morrill. I suppose that the chief amount of necessary information is pos- sessed by every other Senator if not by the Senator from Kansas. I do not desire to defend in connection with this subject the statuary that is at the foot of the Capitol. Perhaps the location is as obnoxious to my sense of good taste as it is to that of the Senator from Kansas, although each figure by itself may be, and I think is, a fine work of art. Mr. Ingalls. How did it get there? Who put it there? Mr. Morrill. Neither do I intend to defend the defective concrete pavement that is on the east side of the Capitol. That has turned out as a good deal of concrete pavement throughout the city heretofore has; but since that was put down I think they have ascertained how and where to obtain a much better article of concrete pavement. This is entirely an independent matter from either the concrete pavement or the statuary at the foot of the Capitol. The document to which I have referred as Execu- tive Document No. 9 explains fully the expense and the plan. I have stated the general results that will be effected. It will be admitted, I think, by all that this plan is the only one that has ever been suggested which has met with almost uni- versal acceptance and exempt from any intelligent criticism; that is to say, it will give the Capitol the appearance of greater strength, of massiveness, of standing upon a firm foundation, and will be something equal to the size andcweight of the dome that is now upon the Capitol. The general elevations are confessedly now too thin,. 1236 Documentary History of the Capitol. too flat. When this is done there will be an evidence of strength, of solidity, that will be obvious to all. Mr. President, I do not like to have this bill go over upon the criticism of the Senator from Kansas. I hope that every other Senator will be prepared to vote for this bill now, in order that it may go to the House of Representatives and be acted upon at the present session. I can say that it met with the unanimous approval of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, of which I am not the chairman, and I hope it will meet with the general approval of the Senate. Mr. Voorhees. Will the Senator from Vermont, before taking his seat allow me to ask him a question? Mr. Morrill. Certainly. Mr. Voorhees. As to the group which so offends the taste of the Senator from Kansas, and likewise my own, I would like to know of the Senator from Vermont whether he would accept as an amendment to this bill for the further improvement of the west front of the Capitol an amendment providing for the removal of the funeral furniture off Pennsylvania avenue to, say, the Soldiers’ Home, out by the cemetery? I think that would go very far to reconcile not only the Senator from Kansas but some of the rest of us to vote for the bill. Mr. Morrill. I wish to say to the Senator from Indiana that I will not accept it as an amendment to this bill, because it is wholly outside of and irrelevant to it, but I will pledge him that I will vote for a proposition to properly remove it, where it will be more appropriate, at any time that a bill may be presented for that purpose. Mr. VooRnEES. I thought it would be entirely in order on this bill to benefit the western view of the Capitol. Mr. Morrill. That is outside of the Capitol grounds. Mr. Cockrell. How did it get there? Mr. Morrill. It got here under the solicitation of the officers and Admiral of the Navy, and before the monument arrived here. I would say that so far as that monu- ment is concerned, if it should be replaced, as I said to the Senator from Kansas this morning, with a large representation in bronze or marble of a buffalo lassoed upon the plains or pursued by dogs, I would much prefer it. [Laughter.] The bill was reported to the Senate without amendment, ordered to be engrossed for a third reading, read the third time, and passed. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-five, and for other purposes,” approved July 7, 1884. (Stats, at. Large, v. 23, 208.)] Tor constructing terraces north of the Capitol, section marked A, as shown on printed plan accompanying the letter of the Secretary of the Treasury (Executive Document Number Nine, first session Forty-eighth Congress) , sixty thousand dollars, including wages of mechanics and laborers: Provided, That the work under this appropriation shall be confined to the north front of the Capitol building, and shall not extend westward beyond the fine of the west front of the Senate wing of the Capitol. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, July 1, 1884. (48—2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 2, p. 402.)] The more important work in pursuance of the design for the improvement of the Capitol grounds during the last year has been that, of the south approach of the ter- race, and a short, section of the terrace proper, in connection with the north approach. Congress having evinced its satisfaction with the result., it needs only to be said with reference to its future action that experience sustains the lowest estimates of the cost of the work that have been at any time presented. The Terraces. 1237 [House proceedings of Mar. 3, 1885: Congressional Record, 48 — 2, p. 2549.] The House having under consideration the conference report on the sundry civil bill for 1886 — The next amendment (numbered 140) was read, as follows: Strike out of the House bill the words: “ For constructing terrace north of the Capitol, section marked B, as shown on printed plan accom- panying the letter of the Secretary of the Treasury (Executive Document No. 9, first session Forty- eighth Congress), including wages of mechanics and laborers, $21,500.” Mr. Randall. The House was ready to appropriate a sum of money to complete the northern or Senate end as far as this terrace was involved. We prefer to see the completion of the work before we begin at the Senate end. The proposition, how- ever, of the Senate includes the completion of the north end and part of the comple- tion of the west. It involves a much larger sum. I move, therefore, that the House further insist on its disagreement to the amendment of the Senate. ^ The motion was agreed to. The next amendment of the Senate was read, as follows: Insert the following: “For continuing the construction of the terrace and grand stairways of the Capitol, as shown on plan accompanying the letter of the Secretary of the Treasury (Executive Document No. 9, first ses- sion Forty-eighth Congress), including wages of mechanics and laborers, $350,000; and this appro- priation shall be immediately available.” Mr. Randall. This is of the same tenor as the other to which I have just referred, and I ask non-concurrence in the amendment. Mr. Rosecrans. That work ought never to have been begun. Mr. Randall. I move that the House further insist upon its disagreement to this amendment. Mr. White, of Kentucky. I think the gentleman is entirely correct on that propo- sition. The idea of appropriating $350,000 to be expended for labor around this Capitol is simply a waste of the public money in the main, as we have seen it here year after year. Especially is this appropriate in view of what was done awhile ago when a bill to pay the small claims running from twenty dollars to two or three hundred or four hundred dollars, known as the 4th of July claims, which have been passed upon by the accounting officers of the Department, the loyalty of the claim- ants in each case fully proven, the amount of the claim satisfactorily established, and the Treasury Department having undertaken the investigation as well as the House committee and a report made by the gentleman from Tennessee, and yet these claims receive no consideration simply because of objection coming from members on that side of the House. Mr. Randall. I am glad to know that the gentleman from Kentucky agrees with me on this point. I now move to further insist on the disagreement. The motion was agreed to. [From tlie "Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-six, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1885. (Stats, at Large, v. 23, 497.)] For continuing the construction of the terrace and grand stairways of the Capitol, as shown on plan accompanying the letter of the Secretary of the Treasury (Execu- tive Document Number Nine, first session Forty-eighth Congress) including wages of mechanics and laborers, two hundred thousand dollars; and this appropriation shall be immediately available. [From the annual report of L. Q. C. Lamar, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 1, 1885. (49 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 1, p. 63.)] Considerable progress has been made in the construction of the terraces. Mr. Fred Law Olmsted, landscape architect, giving his attention to the improvement of the grounds only, has relinquished control of the construction of the terraces since 1238 ■ Documentary History of the Capitol. the close of the last fiscal year, since which time that work has been exclusively under the direction of the Architect of the Capitol. These terraces not only add to the beauty of the Capitol and its grounds, but will, when finished, provide committee and storage rooms so much needed. [Senate proceedings of July 23, 1886: Congressional Record, 49 — 1, p. 7384.] The Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1887 — The next amendment passed over was, in line 1416, after the words “Capitol ter- races,” to strike out — For continuing the work upon the terraces of the Capitol, sections marked K, D, and J, as shown on printed plan accompanying the letter of the Secretary of the Treasury (Executive Document No. 9, first session, Forty-eighth Congress), including wages of mechanics and laborers, and for recon- structing boiler vaults connected with sections C and K, $150,000. That the unexpended balance of the appropriation for continuing the construction of the terrace and grand stairways of the Capitol made in the act entitled “An act making appropriations for sun- dry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1886, and for other purposes,” is hereby reappropriated or rendered available for the continuation of that work during the fiscal year 1887. And in lieu thereof to insert: All work upon the Capitol terraces shall be suspended till a further plan shall be submitted to Con- gress providing for committee-rooms upon the western front of said terraces, with proper ventilation and light from windows in the outer western wall. Mr. Vest. Mr. President, this improvement was commenced deliberately by Con- gress and has proceeded up to the present time very satisfactorily. The original idea on which the appropriation was made aggregated an estimate of $815,000. The idea upon which this estimate was made and the appropriation which followed was simply this: The defect in the architectural plan and structure of the Capitol is that the building is too wide for its height. It was impossible to raise the Capitol and it was impossible to put another foundation under it. It was thought then by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds after mature deliberation that the only way to remedy this matter was to construct this terrace, giving to the foundation of the Capitol on the western approach an appear- ance of solidity and of additional height. That was the theory on which Mr. Olm- stead made his plan, and the plan has proved to be a correct one. In this original idea as before the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds no great stress was laid upon the proposition to obtain rooms for the use of either House of Congress. That was a subsequent matter. I have stated what was the principal idea, and that was to remedy this defect in the architectural plan and in the appear- ance of the Capitol, but, at the same time, if we could secure additional rooms that would be no objection and might be a small argument in favor of the appropriation. Mr. Olmstead asked how many committee-rooms would be necessary, and the Com- mittee on Public Buildings and Grounds told him that twenty would be enough. Under this plan he obtained twenty-eight. They are each 25 feet by 15 in size. It is now proposed by the Committee on Appropriations to do away with the very object that the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds had in view when they recommended this appropriation, and which was the main feature and almost the only feature of the architectural plan adopted by Congress and proposed by Mr. Olmsted. It is proposed now to do away with that appearance of solidity on the part of this terrace and to put windows into it for the purpose of lighting these com- mittee-rooms; in other words, to make this Capitol look like a Pennsylvania barn with windows in the lower story. Mr. Allison. Red lines. Mr. Vest. I suppose so. I suppose hereafter red lines will be proposed if this change is made in the terrace. I understand it is said — I have not heard the argu- ment on the other side except by report, but I understand it is said — that these The Ten 'aces. 1239 rooms are not sufficiently lighted. I have examined the rooms personally. They are all of good size and there is a window to each room opening on the area. Here is the plan, if any Senator desires to look at it. There is an area, and between the rooms upon the inner space and the outer space, to each of these rooms there is a window with a door opposite, giving ventilation. There is a space above to give light to these committee-rooms. They are not lighted as any outside room would be. It is the same defect which the Senate Chamber has and all interior rooms must have; but at the same time it is not dark, and it is suffi- ciently lighted for all purposes of committee business. Another objection, I understand, that is made is that these rooms are damp. They are damp now because they are unfinished and because no fires have been built there; but after they have been once thoroughly dried out and completed there can be and will be no complaint on this score. What would be thought of a gentleman who would construct a building for a pri- vate residence worth 1100,000, with a lower story or foundation taking the place of this marble terrace, who would then put windows in it looking on the street? Mr. -Hale. Let me ask the Senator a question. Mr. Vest. Certainly. Mr. Hale. Did the Senator ever see on this continent, or elsewhere, any great building, or any small building, that was intended for the use of human beings, where around the bottom of it there is to be a plain unrelieved blank wall such as would be put around the base of a monument, without windows in it; and if so I should be glad to have the Senator tell me where that building is to be found? I have asked a great many architects, and I can not find one. Mr. Vest. Take any of the old private buildings in Washington and you will not find the thing the Senator speaks of. Mr. Hale. An unrelieved wall at the bottom the height of a story without win- dows in it? Mr. Vest. You will not find windows looking out upon the street. You will find that in the lower story the windows look out upon an area. Mr. Hale. I never saw such a house, and the Senator can not find one. x Mr. Vest. Well, sir Mr. Hale. They all have windows in the basement. When they were building this Capitol originally with a basement, why did they not leave that without win- dows? That was the old basement. However, I did not mean to interrupt the Sena- tor from Missouri. I shall have something to say by and by. Mr. Vest. I find the letter that was written by Mr. Olmstead Mr. Hale. I have just sent for that, because I want to use it. Mr. Vest. I have it. It is nothing but fair and just that we should hear what this architect says in regard to this matter. Mr. Hale. I should like to have that whole letter read. Mr. Vest. I intend to read it, If the Senator will contain himself a moment. Mr. Hale. I did not know but that the Senator was proposing to leave out this valuable literature. I want it read. Mr. Vest. I intended to have read every word and line in it. I ask the Secretary to read it. The Chief Clerk read as follows: Hon. William B. Allison, Chairman of Committee of Appropriations, United States Senate: Dear Sir: I respectfully ask that the attention of your committee may be invited to certain considerations affecting the question of opening windows in the outer wall of the terrace of the Capitol. The essential purpose of the Capitol is provided for in a range of halls for legisla- tive assemblies with connecting corridors, ante-rooms, and side rooms, and this range is manifested exteriorly by colonnades and other decorative features carried around 1240 Documentary History of the Capitol. the entire building. It is set well above ground, and is held up and made more conspicuous and notable by a very plain basement story. Below this basement story there are foundation walls, and between these founda- tion walls a cellar. It is not customary in buildings of any importance to make a show' of the foundation walls or of the cellar. It would detract from the dignity of such buildings to do so. That the cellar may be lighted and ventilated it is usual to make what in common city buildings is called an area, within which windows are opened through the foundation walls into the cellar in such a manner that they can not be seen in a general view of the building from the outside. This is essentially what has been done in building the Capitol, the area on the west side being a very large one. There are rooms of some importance in the cellar story, but these rooms are not designed to be presented to view, nor can they be presented to view with propriety any more than the coal vaults or any domestic offices in the cellar of ordinary fine large town houses. The original design of the Capitol has thus been sufficiently explained. Now, as to the construction that is being added to it, called the terrace, it must not be sup- posed that this has been designed with the slightest idea of amending or reorganizing or overruling the original design of the building. It has not been intended to make a more important feature of the cellar part of the building, to bring it out of ground or to light it. Had there been any such purpose, had Congress asked for a plan for any such purpose, a very different plan would have been devised for it from that of the terrace. Nothing whatever of w'hat has thus far been built of the terrace would have been proposed. What, then, was the object of the terrace? The answer may be given in this way: Here is a great and costly building, the greater part of the cost of which has been directed to the purpose of producing a certain impression on the minds of those looking toward it, and an impression that should be associated with ideas of the strength and majesty of a great nation. There is nothing more necessary to a successful realization of such a purpose in a building than that it should seem to stand firmly; that its base should seem to be immovable. There is a difficulty in making as strong an impression in this respect as is desirable when an extraordinarily massive structure is placed, as in the case of the Capitol, hanging upon the brow of a hill. The object of the terrace was to more effectually overcome this difficulty. How was it to be accomplished? It was proposed to be accomplished by setting a strong wall into the face of the hill in front of the foundations of the building; that is to say, in front of its cellar wall. Such an outer wall, it was calculated, would have the effect upon the eye of a dam holding back whatever on its upper side looked liable to settle toward the down-hill side. Every dollar thus far spent on the terrace, and on the grounds in connection with it, has been spent on the supposition that this calculation was soundly made. If it was soundly made, then it will appear that the opening of holes in this wall would leave the same effect as the opening of holes in a dam. It would make the building behind it look less secure in its foundations, less firmly based on the down-hill side. Another way of stating the intended effect of the wall is that it would seem to overcome all tendency of the upper part of the hill to be squeezed out by the weight of the great mass of masonry above it. Now, such a wall being seen a short distance in front of the cellar wall of the Capi- tol, it is of no consequence, with reference to the purpose stated, whether the space between the two is occupied by solid earth, or whether the earth is excavated, and in its place cross-walls built, by which any tendency of the cellar walls to slip out would be resisted. The result must be the same, a firmly reinforced base. In this case the arrangement of cross-walls has been adopted, and it has been thought that an advantage would be gained by making the spaces between these cross- walls avail- The Terraces. 1241 able for storage vaults, and in those parts where, under the old arrangement, a sunken area had been provided for the lighting of the cellar of the main building, that the spaces so gained should be prepared in a manner making them equally suitable with the best of the present cellar rooms in respect to the requirements of light and air. But the advantages to be gained in this way have always during the ten years in which the scheme has been under discussion been presented as incidental advantages simply, not as the main purpose. With reference to this incidental purpose, and more especially to the requirement of additional committee rooms, the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds was asked to say how many additional well-lighted and ventilated rooms were desirable. The answer was that twenty would be enough. As the plan stands now, twenty-eight rooms are provided for. Their average area is 25 by 15 feet. Each has at least one window opening upon the area, and the smallest of these windows measures 8 by 11 feet. There is a large door opposite the window of each room opening from a spacious corridor, through which a through draft can be carried. The rooms would be large, lofty, airy, and well lighted. Respectfully, Fjred’k Law Olmsted, Landscape Architect. Washington, July 15, 1886. Mr. Sewell. I desire to make an inquiry. This work is now being carried on under the authority of law, and the House provision is to conduct the work. The Committee on Appropriations strike out the provision, thereby suspending a present law. I make the point of order that there has been no reference from the Com- mittee on Public Buildings and Grounds or from any other committee recommend- ing this to the Committee on Appropriations. Mr. Dolpii. I suggest other amendments for additional work are not in order, being general legislation. I make that point of order. Mr. Hale. In other words, the point is that Congress can not at any time stop appropriating money. Mr. Sewell. You can not change existing law by an amendment to an appropria- tion bill. Mr. Hoar. Is the proposed amendment in italics now before the Senate — that is, the motion to strike out and insert? The Presiding Officer (Mr. Harris in the chair). The motion is to strike out and insert; to strike out the text of the bill as it comes from the House and insert the words in italics. Mr. Hoar. Then I rose for the same purpose as the Senator from New Jersey. I desire to ask the Chair how this language — I do not speak of the mere stopping of the appropriation; that is a different thing — how this affirmative enactment that “all work upon the Capitol terraces shall be suspended till a further plan shall be submitted to Congress providing for committee-rooms upon the western front of said terraces, with proper ventilation and light from windows in the outer western wall,” can be supported in the face of the ruling the Senate has just made? Mr. Hale. I give my own answer to that. There is no law that fixes the kind of work that shall be done upon the terraces. It has never been the subject of any law. From year to year the Congress has appropriated sums of money and has declared how they shall be spent. After great solicitation, after being besieged and beset early and late, an appropriation was made allowing this work to be begun; and while that is not important I may say, in passing, every appropriation that was made was made upon the agreement on the part of the architect and Senators who were urging the measure that there should be windows on the outside; but appro- priations were made from time to time, and each year the question whether there should be any work done, where it should be done, and how it should be done, has been settled upon the appropriation bills. There is not any law anywhere which 1242 Documentary History of the Capitol . declares that after an appropriation which has been made shall be spent the work shall be done in any particular way anywhere else, but it has awaited the action of Congress from year to year in appropriations. Now all that is sought in this amendment is no change of law. It does not pro- pose to change any law, but to provide, in view of future appropriations, that a plan shall be submitted. This is what is done with reference to every structure that has ever been made by the Government. From year to year when naval ships are being constructed, Congress intervenes and says that the work shall not go on until plans shall be submitted to Congress with a view to its enlightenment. It is a direction as to the appropriation, and the power of limiting an appropriation and its uses has never been questioned by Congress. That is not the question we have already passed upon about general legislation, about removing limits, and all that, but it is the method of expending the money. I should be glad to have any law cited that shows how this money shall be spent. Mr. Test. I have sent for the sundry civil act of 1883 in which this appropriation was first made; and here is an extract from it. The Presiding Officer. The Senator from Missouri will suspend a moment. A question of order is raised as to whether or not this amendment is in order. Mr. Vest. I am speaking on that question. The Presiding Officer. The Chair has indulged others to speak, though the ques- tion is not debatable. The Chair is not disposed to interpose objections. Mr. Vest. The provision of the act of March 3, 1883, is as follows: And hereafter all changes and improvements in the grounds, including approaches to the Capitol, shall be estimated for in detail, showing what modifications are proposed and the estimated cost of the same. This is a clause in the sundry civil appropriation bill of March 3, 1883. Mr. Hale. This is the same kind of a clause, that there shall be a plan submitted to Congress. Mr. Vest. I will only say this: So far from the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds having recommended any such legislation as is contained in the Italics on page 59, that committee are unanimously opposed to any such legislation, and are here to-night protesting against it. We protest against taking this work out of the hands <>f the architect. After Congress has agreed to appropriate $815,000 for the construction of it, and after completing one-fourth of this work we are opposed now to stopping it and retaining it in this unfinished condition, in order to meet the ideas of the Senator from Maine. Mr. Hale. Let me say to the Senator from Missouri that I do not agree with him. I do not admit anything that he has stated about the agreement here to appropriate. There has been nothing of that kind. As to any change of plan, and as to its being sought now by the Committee on Appropriations or any member of it to take this out of the hands of the architect, before this discussion closes it will be shown that this architect has been going along from time to time and making changes that never were thought or heard of, and the Committee on Appropriations is only seeking to maintain the original design of this work. If I am not able to show that before this thing is through, then I will back out from this amendment. Mr. Edmunds. Did the original design provide for windows down here? Mr. Hale. There never was a time since the thing was started when the appro- priations were discussed in the Committee on Appropriations that the question was not asked will there be light, bright, and well-ventilated committee-rooms on the interior walls, and it was always said that there would be. The Senator from Ver- mont [Mr. Morrill], the colleague of my friend at my right, who is much inter- ested and has had the charge of this matter so far as anybody has had on the Com- mittee on Public Buildings and Grounds, always claimed that that was so; and when on the north side we came here at the end of the work and complained and found The Terraces. 1243 fault that there were no rooms out there with lights in them, it was said that upon the north side they proposed to have store-rooms without windows, but that upon the west side, looking out upon the sun and upon the light and the air, w r e 'were to have committee-rooms; and never till we got here this winter was there any suspi- cion in the minds of the Committee on Appropriations, who made these appropria- tions, that there were not to be committee-rooms there. It has gone on in a bold and defiant and flagrant way in opposition, and the letter that has just been read introduced a theory about this dam or wall outside that was never thought of originally when discussed here in the Senate. Mr. Vest. Now, Mr. President, I hold in my hand — and it is the most complete answer to the Senator from Maine that mortal man can conceive of — the estimate and plan submitted by Mr. Olmsted, from the Architect’s Office, United States Capitol, Washington, D. C., September 27, 1883, giving the dimensions of this terrace, giving all the details, giving the estimated cost down to the minutest par- ticular, and there is not one word about these committee-rooms. Mr. Dolph. What document is that? Mr. Vest. The executive document referred to in this bill, being a “Letter of the Secretary of the Treasury, transmitting estimates for proposed terrace and approaches for the United States Capitol, Washington, I). C., December 5, 1883 — ■ Referred to the Committee on Appropriations,” of which the Senator from Maine is a member, and he voted for the appropriations under this estimate and plan; and I want him now to show me what he says was always discussed in committee. Mr. Hale. Let me say to the Senator that without consultation with a single mem- ber of the Committee on Appropriations that has from year to year considered this subject (and no other committee has reported these appropriations), I appeal with confidence to every member of that committee in years past whether every time that that matter came up and w r e were solicited to make appropriations it was not upon condition that these exterior walls should have well-lighted committee-rooms with windows on the outside. Mr. Vest. Is it possible that the Committee on Appropriations have gone on with an estimate of §814,000 for this work, and they say now that this thing rested in a verbal understanding? Mr. Hale. We never adopted that estimate. We always declined giving the §814,000. Mr. Vest. Here is the estimate placed before that committee, referred to it. Mr. Hale. I know that we rejected it. We never adopted that estimate. They wanted us to give §800,000 outright, so that they could go on and have their own sweet will here and do what they pleased, and the committee always declined to do it, but jealousy watched and guarded, and gave the appropriation piecemeal, because it felt that this work had got to be watched. Mr. Hoar. I ask the Senator from Maine w r as there or not a perspective drawing, a plan, an elevation of this work? Mr. Hale. Never submitted to the committee with this line of blank wall. Mr. Vest. Here it is, “referred to the Committee on Appropriations,” the whole of it. Mr. Hoar. Has there not been all these years in the room of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, or elsewhere, a map, an elevation, seen by nearly all he members of both Houses of Congress, and was there not one hanging on each side of the terraces half way down? Mr. Hale. I do not know. There never was brought to the Committee on Appro- priations that reported these appropriations any idea or suggestion that there were not to be committee-rooms on the exterior walls. In fact that was negatived when the appropriation was given, and the debates will show that from time to time that was one of the things which commended the proposition, that there vjere to be committee-rooms. 1244 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Hoar. I think this is rather an important question, and I should like to be sure that I understand my friend’s measure, and I will put the question again. My memory is that there have been for the last two or three years, in various places about tire Capitol, drawings in perspective or otherwise, showing this wall, and showing it without windows as it is now proposed, and that there was a picture in the room of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, and that there were two of those drawings on the second terrace showing that thing. Mr. Hale. It has never been the understanding either in the debates here or in the Committee on Appropriations when the Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill] came from the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds and presented it — never. On the contrary, in terms that was all negatived. Mr. Sewell. Was not the matter in charge of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds? Mr. Hale. The appropriations have always been made in the annual appropria- tion bills, and it was understood Mr. Olmsted was going on under the limitations contained in these bills. Mr. Sewell. Under the charge of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. Mr. Hale. I suppose it was under the direction of the Architect of the Capitol. Mr. Vest. There has never been an appropriation that our committee did not appear and urge it. I distinctly affirm here, and every member who has taken any interest in the matter will corroborate what I say, the Senator from Kentucky and my colleague opposed this appropriation as originally made. The Senator from Ver- mont [Mr. Morrill] and myself — and I acted only as the adjutant in the matter Mr. Hale. I should like the Senator himself to ask the Senator from Kentucky if he was not surprised when he came here this winter and found that there were not windows in the western wall of this structure? Mr. Vest. I affirm this: that the Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill] and myself explained and had before us that identical diagram now being examined by the Sen- ator from Vermont [Mr. Edmunds] which was submitted to the Committee on Appro- priations in 1883. We argued this case upon that estimate and upon that idea, and we carried the vote upon it. Mr. Hale. Upon the proposition that there were not to be committee-rooms on the outside walls? Mr. Vest. There is not one word in that paper about a committee-room. It was stated by the Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill], and Mr. Olmsted had given the information to our committee, that if we needed committee-rooms they could be made there, but that was simply an incident to the main improvement. Mr. Hale. It was made a very important matter in the Committee on Appropria- tions. Mr. Vest. Mr. Olmsted’s idea and the idea of the Committee on Public Buidings and Grounds from the beginning was to relieve the Capitol from the architectural defect that was thought to exist in it. Mr. Hale. When did the Senator first hear of this idea of this being a dam around the Capit'ol? Mr. Vest. From the time I read that paper in 1883 and from the time Mr. Olm- sted first appeared before our committee. I became a member of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds seven years ago. Mr. Hoar. What is the question? The Presiding Officer. The Chair is indulging debate on the question of order. Mr. Hoar. It is not on the question of order, but on the merits. Mr. Edmunds. Executive Document No. 9, Forty-eighth Congress, first session, contains a letter from the Secretary of the Treasury embracing estimates for this work, accompanied by a ground plan and by a front elevation showing what the basis of this terrace work was to be, and everybody will see who looks at it that there is no provision for windows, but every provision for solid blocks of stone in every The Terraces. 1245 face of those bases on all sides, and nothing else, and the Senator from Maine will be obliged to admit that if he will come and look at the diagram. Mr. Hale. I do not dispute that the diagram is so. I say it was never adopted; never. Mr. Edmunds. Let us see. I find, opening the first book that happens to be on my desk, and the very last appropriation I think for this purpose, which 1 presume is like its predecessors — here is the paragraph: For continuing the construction o£ the terrace and grand stairways of the Capitol, as shown on plan accompanying the letter of the Secretary of the Treasury (Executive Document No. 9, first session Forty-eighth Congress), including wages of mechanics and laborers, $200,000. So that the very last appropriation of Congress, as I have no doubt all its former ones were, expressly required that the work should be constructed in accordance with that plan, and that plan excludes windows from its front faces. Mr. Hale. If the Senator will allow me further, he will find that so careful was Congress in guarding this matter that it declared no work should be done any more than on the north side, and that it should only come out to a line that should be parallel with the extension of the front line of the Capitol. It expressly in terms ( xcluded the idea that it adopted that plan upon the western side. The Senator will find, either in that act itself or in the act of one of the other years, how carefully Congress reserved to itself the control of the plan, and in terms declared that it did not adopt that plan, but they should not go beyond the line which should be a continuation of the west wall. Senators who were members of the Committee on Appropriations will remember how carefully that was guarded. Mr. Edmunds. That proposition I deny, and insist upon the proof. Mr. Hale. I will show it to the Senator in the laws. Mr. Edmunds. Here is the law. Mr. Hale. I say it is either in that one or in the one for the next year. Mr. Edmunds. It is not in this one, unless in a different part of the act. Mr. Hale. I will show it to the Senator. Mr. Edmunds. At the time this law was passed, the 3d of March, 1885, according to the best of my recollection the work was substantially completed on the north front, and this last sum of money that has been appropriated was for continuing the work around to the west front where it is now being done. The very money that is named in this bill has been spent under this appropriation, and this appropriation says that that money shall be spent in that plan, and that plan says that there shall not be any windows in the faces of it. I should be glad to know by what authority it is. If the Senator can find the law, I would be glad to see that statute. In respect of putting holes in this terrace and spoiling its appearance, I saw in the newspapers the other day, if I may refer to it, a pretty rough illustration and state- ment that it would be like asking of Senators to move their eyes down from their heads into the middle of their stomachs. That is a good way to look at it. Now, Mr. President, I am for utility. I was for utility when a large majority a good many years ago voted that they would provide for a library by extending the central eastern front of this Capitol, and it ought to have been done; but we were finally beaten out of it on the ground that it would injure somewhat, as was supposed, the architectural appearance of the building. We started on the ground of utility in this instance. It was suggested that we could have rooms which could be used for one purpose or another, committee-rooms if you please; but there was submitted to Congress before the work was undertaken an exact proposition of how the work was to be done; and Congress in its appropria- tions in every instance, I believe — certainly in this last one which I happened to turn to at random, having the book before me — provided that the money should not be expended in any other way, that it should be done in that way, because to do it 1246 Documentary History of the Capitol. in any other would destroy the effect of the thing. If the Senator can show us any law by which we changed that plan, which is in the very last act we passed, or any- thing which should guide-the architect I should be glad to see it. Mr. Hale. I have sent for the book. The Presiding Officer. If the Senator from Maine will suspend the Chair will dispose of the question of order. The Senator from Colorado [Mr. Teller] to-night offered an amendment making an appropriation changing the limit of the cost of a public building. The Senate by a decided majority held that that amendment was out of order. This amendment of the committee strikes out an appropriation that appears in the text of the bill and inserts a legislative provision without an appro- priation. The Chair holds that the amendment is not in order. Mr. Allison. Then in lines 1422 and 1423 I move to strike out “ one hundred and fifty ” and insert “ one hundred and seventy-five;” so as to read: “$175,000;” and then to add: “of which sum $25,000 maybe expended for the completion of the work on sections A, C, E, L, and M of said terraces.” The Presiding Officer. The question is on agreeing to the amendment of the Senator from Iowa. Mr. Vest. How is that? Mr. Allison. I will state the object of that amendment. It is merely to reappro- priate what is the unexpended balance provided for in lines 1424 to 1432, inclusive. Mr. Vest. Thai is right. The amendment was agreed to. Mr. Hale. I propose to test the sense of the Senate at some time when it is fuller than now upon an amendment which shall cover this feature of committee-rooms and that the money shall not be expended in that direction. I have found the provision of law that I sent for, showing how carefully and judi- ciously Congress from time to time protected this matter and did not in any way adopt or embrace the entire plan. In the appropriation act of 1884, the same the Senator from Vermont was reading from but which he did not find, I find this pro- viso at the end of the appropriation: Provided, That the work under this appropriation shall be confined to the north front of the Capitol building, and shall not extend westward beyond the line of the west front of the Senate wing of the Capitol. And the consideration of the Senate and debate of the Senate Mr. Vest. What was the date of that law? Mr. Hale. It was the sundry civil appropriation act of July 7, 1884. Mr. Edmunds. This is March 3, 1885. Mr. Hale. It was a previous one. Mr. Edmunds. This gave the plan on the left side. Mr. Hale. It shows how carefully guarded Congress intended this work should be, that it never would adopt or embrace or admit this plan as a whole. I do not believe that there are ten men in the Senate who until this year knew or suspected that all this line of work was to be completed on the western side, a plain blank, dull, staring wall, with no committee-rooms lighted by exterior windows. When this first came to the committee which was considering this subject and making this appropriation, the Committee on Appropriations, there was not a member on it who was not surprised and astounded, and we adjourned and went out onto the ter- race to see if it was possibly so, because from the beginning that was a distinctive feature, and understood. Whether the architect had made a plan of that kind that was not submitted gen- erally to members I do not know. I never saw it. It never occurred to me that there was to be this work done within the walls upon the outside. I shall prepare the amendment I suggested. Mr. Edmunds. I will read the whole of the paragraph of the act of July 7, 1884, the proviso of which the Senator from Maine has read, in connection with his remark The Terraces. 1247 that, the committee did not understand: that this money was to be spent in accord- ance with a particular plan For constructing terraces north of the Capitol — This was in 1884. The act I read was the next year afterward, when we had got that done. For constructing terraces north of the Capitol, section marked A, as shown on printed plan accom- panying the letter of the Secretary of the Treasury (Executive Document No. 9, first session Forty- eighth Congress). The very plan I have shown you where windows were excluded all around — $60,000, including wages of mechanics and laborers: Provided, That the work under this appropriation shall be confined to the north front of the Capitol building. The reason for that was as I remember it in general (I do not know what took place in committee, of course, but what I heard outside and in the Senate Chamber) was that some members of the Senate and a good many members of a body that I may refer to in that Congress, the House of Representatives, did not wish to go on with the work for one reason or another. It was stated all the time that the House themselves did not want that sort of thing, and there was considerable trouble in getting them to agree to an appropria- tion at all. So the appropriation of 1884 was confined to the north front to see how it would look. That being done we came to 1885, and then the Committee on Appro- priations, in innocent ignorance of this plan but knowing enough of it to refer to it by name, although they did not take the trouble to look at it, said, “ We will go on with the west front and spend $200,000,” or whatever it was, there, in accordance with that very same plan, which excludes windows; and if the architect had proceeded to put in windows he would have violated the law, because the law said he should fol- low that plan, and that plan confessedly shows that no windows are to be admitted. Mr. Allison. Mr. President Mr. Mahone. With the permission of the Senator from Iowa I ask leave from the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds to submit three amendments to the sundry civil appropriation bill . I ask that they be referred to the Committee on Appropriations. Mr. Plumb. I suggest that they be not printed. Mr. Edmunds. Oh, yes; I want to see them in print. Mr. Allison. They can easily be printed and be back here by 11 o’clock. The Presiding Officer. The amendments will be referred to the Committee on . Appropriations and printed. [Senate proceedings of July 24, 1886: Congressional Record, 49—1, p. 7441.] The Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1887 — Mr. Allison. Now we go back to the terraces. The next amendment I believe in order reserved is the amendment, on page 58, respecting the Capitol terraces. The President pro tempore. There is no question pending upon that amendment. Mr. Hale. When the Senate adjourned last night I gave notice of an amendment. The President pro tempore. The present occupant of the Chair was not in at the moment, but he is advised that the then occupant of the Chair held the amendment of the committee to be out of order. Mr. Hale. But I gave notice when the Senate adjourned that I had another amendment to offer. The President pro tempore. It will be now in order. Mr. Hale. After the words “eighteen hundred and seventy-seven,” in line 1432, I move to add the following proviso: Provided , That the work under the appropriation shall be done so as to provide committee-rooms upon the western front of the terraces, with proper ventilation and light from windows in the outer western wall. 1248 Documentary History of the Capitol. The President pro tempore. The question is on agreeing to the amendment pro- posed by the Senator from Maine. Mr. Hale. Mr. President, I do not. propose to occupy much of the time of the Senate upon this subject, because it is a thing in which I can have no greater interest than any other Senator. I wish to give in brief the history of this matter so far as it has depended upon the only thing that has given it life, and that is the appropri- ations of money for the work. The Capitol as it stood ten years ago was a most beautiful and imposing and majestic structure. People of taste, of judgment, and of trained and discerning skill in architecture who had traveled the world over were always impressed when they viewed the Capitol. There ivere inconveniences about it. In its original structure not enough attention had been given to the convenience of Senators and members in occupying either the chambers of the legislative bodies or the committee rooms. The prevalent fault-finding about the building was that not enough attention had been given to the feature of air and light and ventilation from exterior walls. The halls of the two legislative bodies are castles in the center of the wings, coming nowhere to the sun, to the air, to the light, and many of the rooms in the Capitol are subject to the same objection. But all the same it was a great, beautiful, grand structure, and it ought to have been let alone. If it had not been for uneasy spirits, experimentalists who wanted to get hold of this building and to work out their own plans and their own devices and their own schemes, it would have been let alone, as it should have been. Ten years ago and more the plan began to be urged and the idea mooted of chang- ing the outside. It came up first upon a project to extend from the center in the form of a Greek cross wings to the east and to the west. That was abandoned, but during that discussion one thing was urged continually, and stress was laid upon it as an architectural feature, that the appearance of the building was low; that it was not high enough for its immense length and breadth. I think that was recognized by architects and by people of taste and judgment in every way. When that plan was abandoned we first began to hear about this scheme for extending out upon the three sides, to the north and west and south, in the form of a new structure called the terrace. There was a bank of earth which was called a terrace. The question arose whether anything was needed to be done there, as the old Library project had been abandoned. When that subject came before Congress, Senators, almost everybody, had a great deal of skepticism about it. It was a pretty serious question to deal with this mag- nificent building, situated on this commanding eminence as it is. Having com- mended itself to the taste and judgment of the world, it was a pretty serious thing to begin to meddle with its foundation, and it did not meet with much favor at first. But like everything else about Washington, like everything else that is urged upon Congress, the more it was repelled and discarded as an impracticable idea the more persistent the men became who were engaged in it. At last the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, and more especially a long-experienced member of that committee, the Senator from Vermont [Mr. Mor- rill], for whom we all have the highest respect and reverence, became possessed of the idea that as well as being a sound public man and a good legislator he was an artist and architect, and that he could immensely improve this building about its foundation. He kept at it in the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds until at last, through the aid of an architect imported from New York, a Mr. Olmsted, a plan was prepared for building out terraces of marble instead of the terrace made from the natural earth presented before, and as is commonly presented about buildings. The history of that move, of that performance is rather an interesting one. When the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds had succeeded, as that committee thought, in perfecting this plan for improving the appearance of the Capitol, and had got a report, and had got estimates made for this whole transaction, which it H. Rep. 646 — 58-2 # * ♦ * * T * ! « >- — -J hit; LT^ i ;i — j — 2 £_J 1 f T «•„ J B • • • « * ? cn ~ ^ D 5 1 *H — t: r.1: •}— 1_:: » ♦ ♦ :Lj:: •Ti . p ♦ * i.iJ I i » iS-r -M rV.* 1 1 ** a •• 4 4«**i i ■* * iKF“n, n r :r~i :M * + — * f"T“’ T ‘ — T T 1 r — 1 * l* « i i - i • * - • * m 1 * X m m§ • • » * 0 * * I ♦ * WALTER PLAN WITH MODIFIED EAST INTERIOR AND PROPOSED WESTERN EXTENSION ELIMINATED. The Terraces. 1249 was said would cost $800,000 (and which, like every other estimate and like the whole plan, was essentially and fundamentally faulty and weak in the amount as in every- thing else) , it became necessary to secure the attention of Congress, and the favorable attention of Congress, because Senators as well as Members were doubtful, skeptical, hesitating, were afraid that some grotesque, absurd thing might be ingrafted upon the foundation of this building which would be a shame and a reproach to the future. The question came up first of giving the whole plan adopted, and that was aban- doned. It could not be done; the House would not agree to it; the Senate would . not agree to it. So it proceeded piecemeal, and from year to year the Senator from Vermont, representing the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, appeared before the Committee on Appropriations, because he had found, as the committee had found, that they could not get any bill through that committed Congress to the whole plan. Mr. Edmunds. It went through the Senate. Mr. Hale. They could not get it through Congress. They must get it in the place where comes the test of embarking in any practical scheme of legislation requiring money about Washington, that is an appropriation in terms made. They came before the Committee on Appropriations, which had no more interest in this matter, and has no more interest in it to-day than any other committee, and no member of the com- mittee has any more interest in it than the member of any other committee — they came before that committee and did not dare to propose that the whole scheme should be taken, but that Congress should embark in it and should test it. The first appropriation was made four years ago for starting and developing to a limited extent this work; and the appropriations were made referring in their terms to certain plats and plans which were made. Since last night I have been hunting up my papers, for like other members of the Committee on Appropriations and members of other committees I have the fashion after a subject is closed of putting up the papers and filing them away because I may want to turn to them afterward. I remembered in the discussion last night that whenever this subject was brought to the Committee on Appropriations it never was urged upon them that these limited appropriations from year to year were to involve any plan that comprehended a blank, unrelieved wall upon the outside. Mr. Teller. What kind of a plan did you think it was? Mr. Hale. I am coming to that. When we made the appropriations we made them upon little maps which were presented to us, and I have one of them here that I found. [Exhibiting.] The maps upon which we made the appropriations and which were submitted to us were like the one which I have in my hand. Mr. Edmunds. A ground plan, and no elevation? Mr. Hale. A ground plan. Mr. Edmunds. And no elevation? Mr. Hale. And no elevation. We were asked, in order to fix where the money should be placed, to mention by letters certain sections of this plan. They began with A on the north side, B, C, D, E, G, F, H, I, J, K, L, and JM. In the old dis- cussions upon the Library, upon carrying out the east and west wings in the form of a Greek cross, the question of committee-rooms was always uppermost and discussed; and the moment that the project was broached before the Committee on Appropria- tions to begin this work the question arose about committee room, and not one dol- lar I may say, and if I am wrong in this I ask any member of the Committee on Appropriations, then or now, present at any time, to contradict me — not a dollar of appropriation would have been given unless it had been believed that in accordance with the thread of the discussion on the old question of changing the Capitol there should be clean, fresh, and amply-lighted exterior committee-rooms. Mr. Vest. Will the Senator from Maine permit me to ask him a question? Mr. Hale. Certainly. H. Rep. 646- 79 1250 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Vest. I understand the Senator to state now that there never has been any appropriation made in bulk for this work, but the appropriations have always been made by parcels at the solicitation of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, represented by the Senator from Vermont [Mr. Morrill], and that it was always distinctly understood that there should be committee-rooms with windows upon the outside. Do I understand the Senator correctly? Mr. Hale. Always. Mr. Vest. I wish to ask the Senator if in 1884, in the first session of the Forty- eighth Congress, the Appropriations Committee did not report unanimously the bill which I hold in my hand, entitled “An act for the completion of the Capitol terraces and the stairways connected therewith,” appropriating $770,588.98 for that work, which was the full amount of the estimate, “the work to be done according to the plans and specifications furnished by Frederick Law Olmsted, landscape architect;” and if that bill, so reported by the committee of which he is a member, did not pass the Senate unanimously, as the Record shows? Now, let the Senator answer that. Mr. Hale. I referred to that before. That project came to naught; it never passed the House of Representatives. Look at the discussion; look at the time when the bill was reported; look at the whole of the proceedings accompanying it, and the Senator can not find anywhere that there was any abandonment of the idea of committee-rooms. Mr. Teller. It was the indorsement of a plan which never had any windows at all. Olmsted’s plan never had any windows. Mr. Hale. I wish to say a word about that plan. Mr. Vest. If the Senator will permit me, I shall not interrupt him again. Mr. Hale. The Senator is himself one of the most generous men in allowing interruptions, and I think sometimes I trespass upon his generosity. I do not object to his interrupting me at any time. Mr. Vest. I am much obliged for the compliment. But I say the Senator stated over and over again last night, and has reiterated it again to-day, that the Committee on Appropriations has never recommended any appropriation for this work except in parcels. He said it last night, or the Record is at fault, and my memory is at fault, and I undertake to say the memory of every Senator here. I produce a bill which passed the Senate unanimously, which was reported by the Committee on Appro- priations unanimously, which appropriated the whole amount of the estimate accord- ing to the plans and specifications which I read last night, which I have here now, and which did not mention any committee-rooms or any windows on the outside. Mr. Hale. Neither do the appropriations that were made, for the reason that always in the conferences and always in the investigation of this matter it was declared that committee-rooms could be upon the outside in consonance with the plan. When Mr. Olmsted, the architect, appeared within the last ten days before the Committee on Appropriations and was asked by the chairman whether it was essential in this plan that there should be no windows upon the outside of this structure that they have built, or if windows could not be cut in there now, he declared that they could be and that it would not destroy the plan; that it was not considered by him as essential, but it was considered by Congress as essential. Mr. Hoar. I do not know that I ought to interrupt the Senator. Mr. Hale. Oh, yes. Mr. Hoar. I think the Senator said it would not destroy the plan. Does he mean by that to say that the architect was of opinion that it would have no effect on the architectural beauty of the structure? Mr. Hale. The architect did not say that; but it had been said, and the chairman asked the question thinking that it would bring out that answer from the architect, whether it would be practical now to cut these windows without destroying the effect of the plan, and the architect answered that they could be, and did not lay stress upon that. The Terraces. 1251 Mr. Teller. It would destroy the plan, but not the effect. Mr. Hale. He put it in that way. But I was going on in order. This plan which I found among my papers is a plan that does not give windows anywhere. It does not give windows on the Capitol itself. It is under the background of this structure that is projected out in front. It simply gives the outline. It does not give spaces. Mr. Teller. Being a background plan, it could not very well. Mr. Hale. He had the diagram in his hand. The Senator from Vermont asked us to appropriate for section A. Where is section A? It is right there. Where is sec- tion B? It is right in the corner. Where is section C? He said “it is right along there.” Then in order that this work should proceed not in an irresponsible way, they put on the appropriation which they made for the north side, after the little experiment which one of the Senators I know characterized as a tunnel or a canal by which we come in to the steps out here. After it had got so far along they wanted to proceed with the rooms and the terrace upon the north side, and the com- mittee were so careful not to let it proceed irresponsibly that they tied up the appro- priation which they gave, and provided that the work under the appropriation should be confined to the north front of the Capitol and should not extend westward beyond the line of the west front of the Senate wing of the Capitol. It did not mean that it should go on without from time to time holding it in check. When we came here the next winter we found that that had been done, and that there were no committee- rooms on the north side. When the Senator from Vermont representing his committee came before the Senate Committee on Appropriations the first questions asked him was, what had become of the plan of having committee- rooms there? The reason was not that the plan did not involve committee-rooms until you got around to the center, hut that on the north side away from the sun it was thought that the rooms could be made for storage, and that we should not have the committee-rooms until we got around to the front; and so the committee upon that made an appropriation for the work in front. I affirm — and I ask members of the Committee on Appropriations to contradict me if I am wrong — that when that appropriation was made and the plans declared where there should be work, no plan was shown to us, nothing indicating that here was a scheme, for an entire wall to be run along, and that the desire of Congress for com- mittee-rooms was to be disregarded. When we came here this winter, and the committee found that this work had been going on, and the question arose as to what should be done further in the way of appropriations, it was a complete surprise to the committee when they went out on the western front and found that rooms had been made there without a particle of light in the exterior Avail at the west. The Senator from Kentucky [Mr. Beck], who is now with the Senator from Mis- souri [Mr. Vest] and the Senator from Vermont [Mr. Edmunds], will bear testi- mony that he himself was as much surprised as any member of the committee, and that when he went out there and saw that, he declared that he had been deceived in this matter. Then for the first time it was found on investigating into the ulterior purposes of this architect and this scheme that the only rooms which can be used for committee- rooms, as much as we need them and as much as the need constantly is arising, Avere out opposite and in front of the center of the Capitol, in that little area shaped like that before the Secretary’s desk here, upon which we look Avhen Ave sit in the bar- ber’s chair looking out through the open window to the west, and not one of those committee-rooms is to have any outlook, any window, any light, out toward the west where all the winds blow, Avhere the air is pure and sweet and clear, but every one of the committee-rooms opens upon this little area or court, which is closed, into which no wind can sweep, which whenever the sun runs high and the weather becomes warm, is hot and oppressive, so that a man in any one of those committee- rooms would be obliged to close the window to keep out the accumulated heat that 1252 Documentary History of the Capitol. would pour into the room the moment that he opened his window. No breath of life in the air from the heavens or the winds that blow can penetrate one of those rooms. Mr. Ingalls. Like this Chamber. Mr. Hale. Yes; just like this Chamber; and I say that is one of the features, and the inconvenient and unhealthy features of this Capitol as it was originally, which seem to be perpetuated and carried out by this plan. Now, the question comes, what is to become of these rooms all along on the north side to the open air, all along on the west side to the open air? Opposite each wing, where the Senate sits and where the House sits, are large, spacious, Lofty rooms, connected from an inner corridor with a bull’s-eye light overhead like a coal cellar, and on the face to the west of those rooms is nothing but the blank, dark wall, pur- posely made to exclude light and air and ventilation. Yet it is a part of this plan to make that portion of the Capitol which the architect in the remarkable letter which was read last night characterizes as the cellar. I never heard of the cellar being up above and open, and 15 or 18 or 20 feet above the level of the ground. But to carry out his plan of dungeons into which men might be immured, rather than clean, healthy, spacious committee-rooms, the archi- tect sticks to his idea of a cellar. Those rooms are along this corridor, lighted from above, lighted perhaps by a little window opening into a court, no outside light, or ventilation, or air; and yet the plan embraces, as I have said, the feature of so using that floor which should be one of the most attractive and convenient and handy of any in the Capitol. There is to be the entrance from the center. The corridor along the elevator that runs now is to run down another floor; there is to be egress and ingress freely; and if these rooms could have been given what a natural man would have supposed as a matter of course would be given to them, we should have found there some of the best committee-rooms that there are in this Capitol (I should be very glad to go into one of them) the way that buildings are built now, with asphalt and with lead linings, and with subcellars and with every- thing that can be made where there is no stint in money, and those rooms could be made the best of any in the Capitol. But they are closed, they are left cold, dark, and damp, and you can not ventilate them. The north rooms which were made for storage are so damp that if you put furniture into them in one week the varnish begins to drop, the paint peels off, the articles become damp. If you put papers in there they will not keep, they become damp and begin to rot — decay and putrefy. They are good for nothing, because every element and every consideration of con- venience has been sacrificed by this plan of this architect, who tells us in that remarkable letter which was read last night that the only feature about the building is that it should have an imposing look. He says: Here is a great and costly building, the greater part of the cost o ' which has been directed to the purpose of producing a certain impression on the minds of those looking toward it, and an impres- sion that should be associated with ideas of the strength and majesty of a great nation. I agree that the strength and majesty of the structure should not be sacrificed: It was proposed to be accomplished by setting a strong wall into the face of the hill in front of the foundations of the building; that is to say, in front of its cellar wall. Such an outer wall, it was cal- culated, would have the effect upon the eye of a dam holding back whatever on its upper side looked liable to settle toward the down-hill side. Every dollar thus far spent ou the terrace, and on the grounds in connection with it, has been spent on the supposition that this calculation was soundly made. In another part of the letter the architect states that the great reason why this work has been entered upon and carried out after the fashion it is being carried out is that there was an impression before that the Capitol would squeeze out the ground around it and would settle, and that there was a lack of firmness in its base. The Senator from Kansas [Mr. Ingalls] participated in a very pungent and effective way, as is his habit, in the discussions with reference to carrying out the east and west wings for a new library accommodation; and I venture to say that in all of those The Terraces. 1253 discussions he will bear me out that this idea that the architectural effect of this building could be improved because it was necessary to put a wall or a dam out there to prevent the impression of sinking or squeezing out the ground never was heard of. The thing that was heard of then in the discussions here and in the committee was that the building presented rather a squat appearance, and that this new work, instead of being a cellar, wovdd add another story in effect to the building and would thereby in effect heighten it and would relieve that appearance. I wonder if the Senator from Kansas in those discussions ever heard before this letter from the archi- tect of this idea that the object was to have a dam outside to prevent the Capitol from appearing to squeeze out the ground. And if Congress had been told w'hat this design was not a dollar would ever have been appropriated for it. I venture this assertion that there are not ten Senators in this body who before the last two weeks ever knew or heard or believed there was a plan here for running a blank, bare, star- ing wall around the Capitol without a window in it. Mr. Teller. It was their own fault if they did not know it. Mr, Hale. They did not know it ; and in the solicitations with which the Com- mittee on Appropriations were visited that was carefully concealed, and we made our appropriations and our references to this plan simply upon the plot of the ground in order to fix upon the diagram where the money was to be expended. I never saw any feature, nor any report, nor any diagram of this entire plan without windows upon the outside walls until I came here this winter. Mr. Haw'ley. I would suggest to the Senator from Maine that there it is: “Re- ferred to the Committee on Appropriations, and ordered to be jirinted, December 5 , 1883 .” Mr. Teller. There never was any other. Mr. Hale. I know that document, the same one referred to last night. Mr. Hawley. There is the illustration itself, and there are the specifications, all of which describe exactly that kind of wall, and repeat it over and over. Mr. Hale. I have read those specifications. They do not say anything one way or other about windows. The truth is that at all the times when that feature was presented it was said, “Yes, you can have your committee-rooms, and your windows, and when we get to the west side it will be done.” It was not pretended that it ivas a distinctive feature that there should be no windows, and Mr. Olmsted himself did not pretend that when he came last week before the Committee on Appropriations. Mr. Hawley. Will the Senator be so kind as to let me explain a matter? I am anxious to get at the truth. Mr. Hale. I yield. Mr. Hawley. Senators and. members and everybody visiting the Capitol will remember a picture that hung for years on the terrace at the western front and at the foot of the entrance near what is to be the grand staircase, and which thousands of people have looked at as showing what was to be the future of the Capitol. There is a completed terrace in that picture precisely as described in the plan three years old, precisely as it is partly finished on the north and west sides. Mr. Teller. That was hung up at least five years ago. Mr. Hawley. I have gone to the architect’s office and inquired for it and it was dug out of the old lumber. Mr. Vest. I raise the point of order on this amendment. The Presiding Officer (Mr. Harris in the chair). The Senator will state his point of order. Mr. Vest. That the amendment offered by the Senator from Maine is out of order. Mr. Hale. If the Senator will withhold that for a few minutes, I am nearly through what I was going to say Mr. Vest. I will withdraw it for the present. Mr. Hale. I have no feeling except to present this matter to Senators and then let it be disposed of. If the Senate does not desire these committee-rooms, then we can 1254 Documentary History of the Capitol. get along without them. I can, lor one, if other Senators can. I was only giving the history to show that this plan is now sprung and that in the quarters that had the responsibility of appropriating this money this never was understood until the present time. Now as to the beauty and the fitness of this long, unbroken band. I am not an architect; I do not know that any Senator here is an architect; the chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds [Mr. Mahone] is not; the Senator from Missouri [Mr. Vest] is not; and the venerable Senator from Vermont [Mr. Mor- rill] is not an architect. I have had experience enough with architects — and I have had a good deal within the last few years — to know that upon great questions of the appearance of a public building or a private building, of a dwelling-house or any feature of it, as to how it shall strike the intelligent and cultivated and observant eye, the judgment of any intelligent and enlightened gentleman is as good as that of an architect; and, more- over, it is not pestered and thwarted and disturbed and turned awry by any par- ticular scheme or plan that an architect has and that he is bound to carry out. No man ever built a house and let the architect have his way and gave him carte blanche who did not find afterward that he ought to have kept his own eye, his master-eye, upon the subject. I have asked and have tried to find out from others who have professional knowl- edge and experience in this matter where a public building can be found with its outer base — not a cellar, because the architect is bright enough to keep calling this a cellar in order to avoid the point I am now making that this is an outer face to the base — I do not know where any building can be found with the basement out clear to view a plain line of granite or marble or brick, or whatever it may be, unbroken by windows. I believe the effect would be better to have windows inserted in these rooms all along in front, because whatever may be said about this dam, this wall that is to prevent the appearance of squeezing out the ground, the general effect to the beholder as he stands far off and approaches the Capitol is just as it was said it would be at the time we entered upon this work, that another story is added to this building, that it lifts it up and makes it less squat, and it appears as if this wall was right under the continuation of the old wall. It will be improved by windows properly put in with proper supports and proper strengthenings at the sides below and above. I do not believe that any building of this kind can be found anywhere. The arch- itect was asked when he was before us if he knew of any such building. He instanced a building in England, the country home of the Duke of Devonshire I believe, and it happened fortunately that a member of the committee had visited that place last year and he said at once that is nothing but a wall that rises above the ground like any wall and is not in any way like this feature, and the architect then was obliged to confess that it was so and he could not give the name. I have been to the Library and I have been looking over the engravings and pic- tures of stately buildings, remarkable buildings, buildings the structures of which have given renown to the architects, and I can not find anywhere any building with a great base unrelieved by doors or windows, but precisely in form like the base of a monument. While I do not pretend to have any architectural education and may be all wrong about it, I have a profound belief that if that is carried out in the years to come the question first asked by everybody approaching it will be, why have you got that blank, staring wall outside there? You may dam this building now, but our children and our successors will damn it a great deal worse in the years to come. I do not believe in it any way. I think the architect is all wrong. He has got this idea into his head, and like all architects he is bound on carrying it out whether or no. I do not know but that it will be said we have gone too far, that we can not retract. It will be said that if Senators did not know they ought to have known. Perhaps The Terraces. 1255 that is so. Perhaps I ought to have known, perhaps the Committee on Appropria- tions ought to have known more, ought to have been more wary, ought to have examined more folly into the details of this plan; but when every appropriation was accompanied by an assurance that we should have these committee-rooms, we did not. Perhaps we were at fault. I do not say that we were not. I do say — and in this I appeal to the consciousness of Senators surrounding me now — that I believe not ten men up to this winter ever had a thought that there was a feature here to be carried out of a blank, staring wall upon the outside and no windows and no com- mittee-rooms. I may be all wrong about it, but I make that statement as my impression from the talk I have heard from Senators and from the way my own mind has run. And with this I am going to leave it. I can have, as I said, no more interest than anybody else, no more than the Senator from Missouri. The Committee on Appropriations divided on the subject. They have no interest in it. It is not a desire to stop the work, but it is well that in a matter of this importance Senators should know just what has been going on, how it has gone on, and what they are likely to see in the future. Mr. Vest. I now renew the point of order, Mr. President. The Presiding Officer. The Senator from Missouri raises the point of order that the amendment of the Senator from Maine is not in order. Mr. Hale. Let us have it read. The Presiding Officer. The amendment will be read. The Secretary. After the word “seven,” in line 1432, it is moved to add: Provided, That the work under this appropriation shall be done so as to provide committee-rooms upon the western front of the terraces with proper ventilation and light from windows in the outer western wall. Mr. Conger. I ask the Senator from Missouri to withdraw the point of order for a moment. The Presiding Officer. Does the Senator from Missouri withdraw the point of order? Mr. Vest. Of course I do not wish to prevent the Senator from speaking. Mr. Conger. I wish to make a remark or two in regard to this subject. I do not know what other Senators may have thought during the few years in which this work of carrying around the marble base in place of the earth slope around the Capitol has been going on; but with the little attention that I have given to it I supposed from the first, until now that the general feeling was among all who looked at this Capitol from the west side and from the north side and from the east side that the earth embankment against this Capitol resembled too much the embankments around the little prairie houses that are built for temporary purposes, the commence- ment of a place to stay a little while when a man was making his homestead, banked up, as I have heard in Ireland and in Norway and in other places some residents bank up with earth or with snow or with ice as a matter of protection. That w r as the appearance of the Capitol to other people as it -was to myself. The main argument that I ever heard for leaving these grass plats or slopes -was to afford a place for children to roll their eggs down on Easter Day, so that it was their part of the Capitol on that occasion for a play-ground; it w r as said to be convenient for that purpose. I have always understood that the very length of the building gave, especially upon the western side of the ground against it, the impression that it was a flat building; and I have heard it suggested here and in Congress that in some way, by some expense, the old Capitol should be raised another story, and the dome itself raised on the top of another story to relieve the idea of the flatness of the building. That has been the criticism of those who have had advantages which I never did have of seeing the famous buildings of the capitals of the Old World. When this was proposed I understood, from all the conversation I ever had with members of Congress and others, and I supposed there was to be this wall around 1256 Documentary History of the Capitol. the building in the place of the earthwork, of the grass slope, of the embankment, and the theory of it was that in looking at the building from the west and that part of it from the north and south, which was to be affected by this wall, it would to the eye and in point of fact equal to some extent another story of the building, and although it was removed far off from the building, was a mere foundation for the sidewalk and for the top of the promenade-ground around the building, yet the effect of it and the object of it was esthetic almost entirely to improve the appearance of the building. I have heard from time to time, and innumerable times, members of Congress of both Houses speak of the work as it progressed, as a view of it from the north and latterly from the south showed its effect, that it did have the effect in coming from the west around the walks of the Capitol Grounds, it did have the effect to the eye — illusory perhaps, a mere delusion of the senses — of raising the whole Capitol a story, these outer parts of it taking the place of the earthwork, blending in with the build- ing and lifting it another story from the earth. I never heard that anything about that building was to be used for committee- rooms, and I am free to say that I do not believe there is a Senator in this body or a member of Congress in the other House if these rooms were completed in the best possible style, with windows of any possible form and with great elevations or greater depth as it may be, could be found would agree beforehand as chairman of a com- mittee or a member of it to go, from this Senate in any possible mode either down through the engine-room or out through the west-front of the Capitol and into the corridors there and select a committee-room to which he would go in summer and winter and hold his committee meetings there. This getting committee-rooms off to other places has been attempted from the necessities of the case and has uniformly failed everywhere and in whatever building. A committee that goes away from the immediate presence of the body is at a disadvantage because its attention may be called by the alarm-bells of yea-and-nav votes, executive sessions, and all those things where a committeeman desires to be within immediate reach of the scene of his labors. There were two windows on that subterranean west front of this Capitol. One of them remains there yet, I think — ghastly, unsightly sepulchral windows, as if the entrance to the dead-house, the entrance to the vault whitewashed as in old times if my recollection is right, like the outside of a sepulcher. There is one now that has not been torn away right in front of the Senate portion of this beautiful building, a great gaping, staring window whitewashed within and without. I think it has been used in some way or other as a means of getting air through this earth embankment and through the engine-room and through the heating-room, and the Lord knows what for. I have never explored all these places and means of getting fresh air to the Senate. The window in the further end of this Capitol was so unsightly to the members in the other House that many of them who were there then cheerfully accepted any proposition by which the window could be removed, and so they built a martello tower away off on the grounds somewhere in order that the air should not come from the immediate surface of the ground. The Senator from Maine proposes for these committee-room windows. We raised up this martello tower 20 feet, a perfectly air-tight building except at the top so that the air that should come in should be pure. It used to come sweeping along the surface of the humid ground, and it ivas thought it should at least come up a little higher and come down through this tower and then come into this old window, and come into the House in that way. The Senate that is careful about these matters of health and smell have continued the use for their refreshment and recreation up to this time of a window opening low down, the air coming through some kind of a whitewashed vault and coming to the Senate Chamber, and it comes here yet. No man in the spring or in the winter when the beautiful grounds around this Capitol are properly fertilized by the fertility of the Guano Islands or the fertility of South Carolina phosphates or the more common The 1 "err aces. 1257 fertilizing processes that are secured around the different livery stables of the city and piled away in immense magazines of fertilizers — no man in the Senate unless he has a very had cold and his sense of smell has been very much obstructed can fail to tell in a moment when the fertilizers are scattered over the grass and how the cur- rent of air coining along a moist spring day up this beautiful slope finds its passage within the fan, as if we must bring in by the aid of machinery surface air from the fertilized grounds around. One sitting here can tell with the ordinary exercise of his sense of smell when the fertilizers are there. The same effect will come from a window low down with the slope, the air coming up to it from the immediate surface and from the soil whether affected by fertilizers or the natural moisture arising from the frequent rains. The air taken from the surface of the ground around this Capitol is not healthy and is not pleasant, and is not fit for the Senate, and is not desirable for a committee-room, window or no windows. That striking window which used to stare us like a great tunnel entrance at the House end was removed years ago, but the other window has remained at the Senate end and is there to-day if it has not been removed within a few days, and I do not know how that may be. I venture to say that the sole object and the only practical object of the expense of building this marble wall around the building was to sustain the foundations of the building and to remove the unsightly grass plots that slope down from the build- ing, and if I may so say to substitute the jrure white marble in the place of the leek- covered earthen parapet. There never was a time but that the pure air was impreg- nated with the leeks and the garlic coming over this ground. It is not to-day, although twenty to thirty men are busily engaged from early spring to midsummer with their little knives weeding out these little roots of the leek, the garlic, or the onion, or whatever name you call it by, and carrying it off in basketsful day after day, the smell of the garlic will linger there still. Now, do you want committee- rooms just overlooking these grounds? We desire to have the view even from the committee-rooms down there hidden by the already great trees and shrubbery, and shut out from the view of the heavens or the earth by the shrubbery which must necessarily cover that ground. The Senator has spoken of the delightful view from the barber-shop Mr. Hale. I do not like it. Mr. Congee. I do not like that, view. I did not hear him very exactly, but I thought the Senator had expatiated upon the delightful view from the window of the barber-shop. Mr. Hale. I was saying that the trouble with this plan is that the committee- rooms provided for are rooms looking out on that space. I do not like it better than he. Mr. Congee. Any man of taste w r ho can fall back in the barber’s chair and go through the soaporific and barberous practices of a good barber learns to enjoy that place, and gathers around it even when there is no special barberous necessity for it. We associate the idea of comfort and nicety with it, and regard the place as being a pleasant and a sightly place. There is my friend from Nebraska [Mr. Mandeeson]. I saw a heavenly smile come over his countenance when I described it, even when he was not looking out on the beautiful view, with the Monument in the distance and the grove before him. But, sir, there is something serious about this, and I generally when I talk to the Senate desire to say serious things, though the Senator from Maine may consider these allusions a little humorous. I have thought that his remarks about this para- pet, or whatever it is called, were made with the intention of showing to the Senate how ridiculous it would be to have this wall all cut up with windows, a solid base- ment for one of the most beautiful promenades in the world. What kind of windows? Double windows, Gothic windows, the big Gothic in the middle and the little hang- ing on at the side, or the kind of windows with little square holes like the windows 1258 Documentary II! story of the Capitol. in the upper story of this Capitol? What could be put in there in any arrangement that would not demand a greater height of these walls, and what could be put in there which would not, to the eye of any man educated or uneducated in artistic things, mar the harmony and the solidity and the beauty of these walls? How many windows shall there be? How situated? What is to be placed there in any event that would not take away the entire effect if there is a good effect in having these walls carried around the Capitol. Sir, the plan for what was to be done when we reached around the front of the main building and the entrance to the main building was hung up under glass, stuck down along the walk, and it was there for some years. I had supposed from it that in the immediate front of the building there was to be a double staircase, a stairway leading from the walks from Pennsylvania avenue and from Maryland avenue, wind- ing up by some suitable plan to the front of the main center of the Capitol. In that there might be ornament; in that there might be openings and windows; in that there might be tracery. Any of those things there would be appropriate, but here there should be nothing except the plain, distinct, clear purpose of this work, which was to raise the building and put in place of a mud wall the white granite or the mottled granite. The stairway would be the place for ornament. If the Senator from Maine will exercise his taste, and I hope he will, there may be ornamental things there on the two grand stairways on which the visitors to the Capitol and the people of the United States coming from the two main branching avenues that lead up to the west front of the Capitol should come up the w T alks that are already pre- pared, and come up to the Capitol by a staircase which is appropriate and tasteful in regard to the construction of the building. It is said that this building lacks air. It is said that it lacks ventilation. It is said that the store-rooms down here are so moist that papers melt, corrode, or mold. Why not? All along they have been there to mold, and probably it is no worse now. There never has been any attempt to clean out that space to make it even free from the dampness of the building. But there are many rooms in this building that have no ventilation that are occupied for committee-rooms no better than they have to-day; and the ventilation of those vaults or rooms must depend upon the forcing of the currents of air to them, and so the drying of those rooms depends on the heat and hot air sent through. But, sir, I will say another word. No man will w r ant to go to one of these rooms as a committee-room either for the reasons of convenience or health or proximity to either of the Chambers. If they were there nobody w r ould w r ant them, No man will say beforehand that he will take them either as chairman of a committee for his committee or as a member of it. You may circulate the request and I venture to say you can not get a signature in a week. So then I think the idea of these rooms for committee-rooms, thus by openings and by windows and by whatever process mar- ring the plan and the design of the work itself, ought not to be undertaken. We have no need to prepare down under ground and in dark places committee- rooms. Whenever the w T ork already ordered by Congress, the building of a new library, shall be so far completed as to permit the removal from the library part of this Capitol of the vast accumulation of books and pamphlets and magazines occupy- ing those rooms, there will be more and better rooms in that one part of the build- ing than all these front committee-rooms put together. Besides it is proposed — how soon it may come I do not know, for these are things reaching through years that we are considering now — and I have no doubt it will soon be entered upon, to build upon the other side of East Capitol street over w lie re the library may be located a place for the law library, for the United States Supreme Court, and for the officers connected with it, leaving for the use of the Senate in the Capitol from twelve to fifteen rooms which can be the best committee-rooms in this building. The uses for which they are now occupied will be taken away. In both The Terraces. 1259 ends of the Capitol, the prospective buildings for the library, and United States court-rooms, and for the law library, and for the clerk’s office, and the marshal’s office connected with the courts, will leave rooms that are desirable and that will be sought by committees without going down elevators and without going down into the engine-rooms and through the corridors below. These are my views. I was astonished beyond measure when I found that a com- mittee of the Senate would stop the progress of a work which to the mind of every man with whom I have ever conversed and of every citizen of the United States with whom I have talked about this improvement on actual inspection, has been considered very proper in its form and very desirable, and worthy of the Capitol and worthy of the nation; and when it comes to any vote upon that I shall vote against the report of the Committee on Appropriations stopping the appropriation for any purpose whatever, and most of all I shall vote against it Avhen the object of stopping the appropriation is to make an unnecessary and a useless and an undesired and an undesirable number of committee-rooms far down in the bowels of the earth and mar the plan and mar the usefulness of the work as it is now proceeding. Mr. Allison. I now ask unanimous consent that the usual five-minute rule may be applied to amendments to this bill. The Presiding Officer. The Chair did not hear the Senator from Iowa. Mr. Allison. I now ask unanimous consent that in the further consideration of this bill the five-minute rule may be applied to the amendments. The Presiding Officer. The Senator from Iowa asks the unanimous consent of the Senate that hereafter in the consideration of this bill the five-minute rule shall be applied to the discussion of amendments. Is there objection? The Chair hears none, and it is so ordered. Mr. Vest. I now renew the point of order on the amendment of the Senator from Maine. The Presiding Officer. The Senator from Missouri [Mr. Vest] raises the point of order upon the amendment proposed by the Senator from Maine [Mr. Hale] that it s not in order. The bill as it came from the House contains an appropriation for continuing the work on the terraces of the Capitol to which the Senator from Maine proposes an amendment changing the plan upon which that work has heretofore been prosecuted under the authority of law. Following the decision of the Senate yesterday evening upon the amendment proposed by the Senator from Colorado [Mr. Teller] the Chair is constrained to hold that the amendment is out of order. Mr. Allison. Now the pending amendment is to strike out from line 1-116 to line 1432 inclusive. Mr. Vest. Let us take a direct vote on that. Mr. Allison. Let us take a vote on that. We have had full debate now. The Presiding Officer. The amendment will be stated. The Chief Clerk. It is proposed to strike out, beginning in line 1416, after the words “Capitol terraces,” down to line 1432, as follows: For continuing the work upon the terraces of the Capitol, sections marked K, D, and J, as shown on printed plan accompanying the letter of the Secretary of the Treasury (Executive Document. No. 9, first session, Forty-eighth Congress), including wages of mechanics and laborers, and for reconstruct- ing boiler-vaults connected with sections C and Iv, $150,000. That the unexpended balance of the appropriation for continuing the construction of the terrace and grand stairways of the Capitol made in the act entitled “An act making appropriations for sun- dry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1886, and for other purposes,” is hereby reappropriated or rendered available for the continuation of that work during the fiscal year 1887. The Presiding Officer. The Chair will state to the Senator from Iowa and to the Senate that that amendment, as the Chair understood, was ruled out. The entire amendment of the Committee on Appropriations was a proposition to strike out the words read and to insert what follows in italics, it being one amendment to strike 1260 Documentary History of the Capitol. out and insert, which the Chair held last night to be out of order. So that amend- ment is disposed of already. Mr. Allison. I offered last night an amendment to the text at the end of line 1423. I did that with a view of moving to strike out from line 1424 to line 1432, because my amendment is intended as a substitution for the House provision. The Presiding Officer. The Senator’s amendment is now in order. Mr. Allison. I then move to strike out the clause from line 1424 to line 1432, inclusive. The Presiding Officer. The language proposed to be stricken out will be read. The Chief Clerk read as follows: That the unexpended balance of the appropriation for continuing the construction of the terrace and grand stairways of the Capitol made in the act entitled “An act making appropriations for sun- dry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1886, and for other purposes,” is hereby reappropriated or rendered available for the continuation of that work during the fiscal year 1887. The Presiding Officer. The question is on the amendment to strike out these words. The amendment was agreed to. Mr. Allison. Now, do I understand that the original text remains in the bill from line 1416 to line 1423 with the amendment that I offered? The Presiding Officer. That is the effect of the ruling of last night, in which the Senate concurred. Mr. Allison. Then I hope we shall go on. [From the “‘Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-seven, and for other purposes,” approved Aug. 4, 1886. (Stats, at Large, v. 24, 239.)] Capitol terraces: For continuing the work upon the terraces of the Cajiitol, sec- tions marked K, D, and J, as shown on printed plan accompanying the letter of the Secretary of the Treasury (Executive Document Number Nine, first session Forty- eighth Congress), including wages of mechanics and laborers, and for reconstructing boiler-vaults connected with sections C and IC, one hundred and seventy-five thou- sand dollars; of which sum twenty-five thousand dollars may be expended for the completion of the work on sections A, B, C, L, and M, of said terraces. [From the annual report of L. Q. C. Lamar, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 1 , 1886. (49 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 1, p. 61.)] The Architect states that the north terrace, section A, has been completed, with the exception of the bronze lamps and vases, which are to be placed upon the pedes- tals of the balustrade, and that satisfactory progress has been made in the construc- tion of the other portions of the terrace. [Senate proceedings of Jan. 31, 1887: Congressional Record, 49 — 2, p. 1186.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1888 — Mr. Beck. We doubled the appropriation for the work in front of this Capitol so as to have it done in two years. Mr. Allison. For illustration, we have added to the House appropriation $157,000 for the terraces of the Capitol. Some of us who have been here for a good many years recollect perfectly well that the Capitol has been in an unfinished state ever since we have been here, and the Senator from Kansas [Mr. Plumb] says always will The Terraces. 1261 be; but we can contribute our part to complete this building. Therefore we called before us the Architect of the Capitol, and said, “ What will it cost to complete these terraces in order that we may not come here at the beginning of each session and find this whole Capitol torn up, to the inconvenience of Senators and Representa- tives?” And we have proposed to appropriate in this bill, by way of amendment, a sufficient sum to complete these terraces. [Senate proceedings of Jan. 31, 1887: Congressional Record, 49 — 2, p. 1192.] The Senate as in Committee of the Whole having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1888— The next amendment was in line 1266, after the word “for,” to strike out “con- tinuing the work upon” and insert “completion of;” in line 1267, after the word “and,” to strike out “towards constructing;” in line 1268, after the word “stair- ways,” to strike out “sections marked E, F, G, IT, and I, as shown on plan accom- panying the letter of the Secretary of the Treasury (Executive Document No. 9, first session Forty-eighth Congress);” and in line 1272, after the word “laborers,” to strike out “one hundred and sixty-five” and insert “three hundred and thirty;” so as to make the clause read : Capitol terraces: For completion of the terraces of the Capitol, and grand stairways, including wages of mechanics and laborers, 5330,000. Mr. Plumb. I should like to inquire of the Senator from Iowa having the bill in charge where the accounts go for this work, and where is the official evidence to be found of the expenditures heretofore made and the result actually accomplished? Through what supervision does it go? I should like to know if the committee have had any evidence on that point, as to the actual necessary work and the cost. Mr. Allison. The committee do not enter into that question at all. They took the estimates of the Architect of the Capitol as to the cost. There is a document referred to here showing in detail the character of this work and the estimated cost. Of course every expenditure made under this appropriation is made by public letting and under contract. I suppose there is no difficulty in ascertaining what it costs. This money is expended under the plan mentioned in the bill, which we struck out because we did not consider it necessary. I do not think there is any trouble about the expenditure. The President pro tempore. The question is on agreeing to the amendment of the Committee on Appropriations. The amendment was agreed to. [Senate proceedings of Mar. 3, 1887: Congressional Record, 49 — 2, p. 2608.] The Senate having under consideration the conference report on the Sundry Civil bill for 1888 — Mr. Beck. * * * For the terraces about the Capitol we gave up $125, 000. I was stubborn about that myself, and in favor of finishing in one year the approaches to the Capitol, but the House allowed $125,000 this year and $125,000 for next year. That meant that we should be having foul air pumped into our nostrils all through the next long session of Congress. I said that work could be done in one year beyond all peradventure, and if the Architect could not do it we would find a man who could. They can close up the terraces on the west end of the Capitol and put all the men they want at work and do it this year, and let us have some comfort during the long session, instead of being annoyed as we are now. I hope that if we have not got men now who can do it, we shall find men who will do it. 1262 Documentary History of the Capitol. There are many people in all these Departments and superintending this Capitol, like the ring that surrounded the Navy Department and others, that are like old rats running in ruts and retiring to their holes, so that if they get out of that track and on fresh ground they can not get on. The sooner we get the infusion of fresh blood into a few things here the better it will be for the country. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-eight, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1887. (Stats, at Large, v. 24, 525.)] Capital terraces. — For the completion of the terraces of the Capitol and grand stairways, including wages of mechanics and laborers, three hundred and thirty thousand dollars. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and eighty-nine, and for other purposes,” approved Oct. 2, 1888. (Stats, at Large, v. 25, 523.)] Capitol terraces. — For artificial pavement and for fountain in front of terrace, pavement in area between terrace and building, and for bronze lamp-posts and vases for north and south terraces, fifteen thousand dollars. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and ninety, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 2, 1889. (Stats, at Large, v. 25, 958. )]_ Capitol terraces. — For artificial pavement and for fountain in front of terrace, pave- ment in area between terrace and building, and for bronze lamp-posts and vases for north and south terraces, fourteen thousand dollars. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and ninety-one, and for other purposes,” approved Aug. 30, 1890. (Stats, at Large, v. 26, 388.)] Capitol terraces. — For paving terrace and completing the interior of rooms and cor- ridors, including steam heating, and for the payment of amounts retained on contracts, twenty-seven thousand dollars. [From the annual report of John W. Noble, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 1, 1890. (51 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 1, p. xc.)] The marble and granite work of the terrace have been completed, and a number of the rooms fitted up ready for occupancy by committee, nine of which rooms have been occupied during the present session of Congress. All the others will be made ready by the next meeting of Congress. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and ninety-two, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1891. (Stats, at Large, v. 26, 970.)] Capitol terraces. — For bridge, marble steps, and for completion of balustrade at the main entrance, west front; for lamp posts and railing to main stairway, and for general work on terraces, fourteen thousand dollars. NORTHWEST VIEW OF CAPITOL, SHOWING STAIRWAYS AND TERRACES, 1903. The Terraces. 1263 [From the annual report of John W. Noble, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 1, 1891. (52 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 1, p. cxxxi.)] The marble and granite work of the Capitol terraces has been completed and the office rooms of the same on the Senate side finished and are now occupied. Eighteen bronze lamp-posts and 18 bronze vases have been received and put in place on the terraces. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, eighteen hundred and ninety-three, and for other purposes,” approved Aug. 5, 1892. (Stats, at Large, v. 27, 368.)] Capitol terraces . — For extending heating apparatus and for general work in com- pleting terraces, eight thousand dollars. [From the annual report of John W. Noble, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 15, 1892. (52 — 2, H. Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 1, p. cxliii.)] The stairways and marble balustrades connecting the Capitol terrace with the central doors of the building have been finished, bronze lamp-posts and railing have been put in place on the main stairways, and the fountain has been completed and is in operation. VII. PROPOSED EXTENSION OF CEN- TRAL EAST FRONT. [From the annual report of Thomas U. Walter, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1864 (38 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 695.)] EXTENSION OF THE CENTER BUILDING. Now that the new dome and the wings of the Capitol are approaching completion, it must be apparent to every one that the extension of the center building, on the east, to the line of the new wings, becomes an architectural necessity. I have there- fore prepared plans for thus completing the work, in harmony with what has already been done, and will place them in the Capitol for future reference. I do not suppose, nor would I recommend, that any action be taken by Congress, in reference to such an improvement, until the war is ended and the financial con- dition of the country becomes settled and prosperous; but, inasmuch as it is my pur- pose to retire from these works as soon as the dome is finished, I deem it incumbent upon me to leave upon record my views as to their final completion. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1865. (39 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 811.)] EXTENSION OF THE CENTRE BUILDING. I respectfully call attention to the necessity of extending the central building and portico out to the line of the porticos of the wings. This is imperatively demanded, in order to give prominence to the central portico, which should be the superior one of the three; whereas, at present, owing to its receding, and the encroachment of the dome upon it, it appears to be the inferior. Besides, the lower member of the dome overhangs the eastern wall of the building, giving the dome from some points of view an appearance of insecurity. Mr. Walter has left plans for thus extending the central portico, which are in my opinion judicious and in good taste, and which, if adopted, will remedy the defects above mentioned. [From the annual report of James Harlan, Secretary of the Interior, December 4, 1865. (39 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. xvi.)] Attention is invited to that par t of the report [that of the Architect] which relates to the necessity of extending the central building and portico to the line of the por- ticos of the wings, and of enlarging the Capitol grounds. The architect recommends that the plans prepared for these purposes by his predecessor be adopted and carried into effect. [Reference was made to the Walter plan for the extension of the central east front by Senator Buckalew, of Pennsylvania, in a debate in the Senate, July 24, 1866. — Congressional Globe, 39 — 1, p. 4072, already given in the section covering the Capitol Extensions.] 1264 . Rep. 646 — 58-2. VIEW OF PROPOSED EXTENSION OF CENTRAL EAST FRONT. Proposed Extension of Central East Front. 1265 [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, Nov. 1, 1866. (39 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 560.)] EXTENSION OF THE CENTRE BUILDING. It is to be hoped that some action will be taken towards extending the central portico, and I recommend that this necessary improvement be made in conformity with the plan proposed by Thomas U. Walter, esq. If this change is to be made at no very remote period, it would be to the advantage of the government to have it done now, while the work is going on, and before the eastern grounds are improved. [From the annual report of 0. H. Browning, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 19, 1866. (39 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 14.)] The architect repeats the recommendation made in his preceding report in favor of the extension of the central portico, in conformity with the plan proposed by his predecessor, Thomas U. Walter, Esq. Should this recommendation be sanctioned by Congress, it would be advisable to commence the work at an early day, while operations on the other portions of the edifice are in progress, and before the east- ern grounds are improved. In view of the anticipated early completion of the Capitol, should the central portico not be extended, it is recommended that Con- gress authorize inclosing the public grounds north and south of the building, and squares numbered six hundred and eighty-seven and six hundred and eightj^-eight, should the bill which passed the Senate at the last session providing for the purchase of them become a law, and improving the Capitol grounds in a style befitting the magnificent edifice which crowns their summit. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol Extension. Nov. 1, 1867. (40 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 526.)] I again beg leave to refer to the necessity of extending the central portico; the necessity of this improvement has been set forth in the former report from this office. [From the annual report of O. H. Browning, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 18, 1867. (40 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 18.)] The architect in charge of the Capitol extension reports the completion of the por- tico of the south wing, and reiterates the opinion expressed in his previous reports that the central portico should be extended to correspond with those of the wings. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1868. (40 — 3, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. 889.)] In my first report on taking charge of this work, I recommended the adoption of the plan made by T. U. Walter, esq., for the extension of the eastern front of the central building; but becoming more familiar with the building and its requirements, I am convinced that the additional number of rooms for committees and other pur- poses which are required, are not provided in that plan; I have therefore made a plan for this extension, which supplies to some extent this deficiency of rooms, and which is now submitted for consideration. It is important that the question of the extension of the central building should be decided; for, in case it is not authorized, measures should be taken at once to have the space in front improved and paved. H. Rep. 6d6 80 1266 Documentary History of the Capitol. [From the annual report of 0. H. Browning, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 30, 1868. (40—3, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, p. xvi.)] The architect reports the completion of the exterior marble work, and of the arrangements for securing a supply of water to the central building and south wing of the Capitol. * * He submits a new plan for the extension of the eastern front of the central building. [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol Extension, Nov. 1, 1869. (41 — 2, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 3, p. 1139.)] As Congress has not taken notice of the recommendations of my predecessor or myself relative to the extension of the eastern front of the central portion of the building, and as it is not likely that body will soon take action on the subject of enlargement of the building, I beg leave to call the attention of Congress to the necessity of paving the space of the eastern front with a wooden or some other suit- able pavement, and flagging the sidewalks. This structure has advanced so near- completion, its approaches and grounds should be embellished. [From the annual report of Carl Schurz, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 15, 1879. (46 — 2. House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 1, p. 56.)] The Architect of the Capitol reports the completion, during the year, of many needed improvements in the Capitol building. * * * He reports the Capitol as in good repair, and suggests the importance of providing additional room for the growing demands of Congress. In his opinion the projection of the center portion of the building at the eastern front would be in accord with architectural beauty of proportion and furnish the room required. [47 — 1, House Rep. No. 164, Jan. 31, 1882, pp. 7, 8, 14.] REPORTS OF THE COMMISSION APPOINTED BY THE JOINT SELECT COMMITTEE ON ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. To the Hon. D. W. Voorhees, Chairman of the Joint Select Committee on Additional Accommodations for the Library of Congress:.. Sir: The undersigned, a commission appointed by your honorable committee, in conformity with the provisions of the act of Congress approved June 8, 1880, entitled “An act to provide additional accommodations for the Library of Congress,” beg leave to report that they have, in conformity with your letter of appointment of June 17, 1880, examined and duly considered the question of “what practical and benefi- cial changes ’ ’ can be made in the Capitol with the view of providing better accom- modations for the Library, &c. They have unanimously agreed to the following resolution, and respectfully submit the same as their preliminary report: Resolved, That in the opinion of this commission' it is inexpedient if not impracti- cable to extend the Capitol building so as to provide additional space for the rapid growth of the Library without seriously interfering w T ith the architectural proportions thereof, and also its convenience for legislative purposes, but that “practical and beneficial ’ ’ changes, such as mentioned in the act creating this board, can and should . Rep. 646 — 58 SOUTHEAST VIEW OF PROPOSED EXTENSION OF CENTRAL EAST FRONT. Proposed Extension of Central East Front. 1267 be made at no distant day in and of the Capitol for the better accommodation of the two houses of Congress. We therefore recommend the erection of a seperate edifice for the Library. Very respectfully submitted. Edward Clark. Alex. R. Esty. ,T. L. Smithmeyer. Washington, D. C., September 25, 1SS0. Hon. D. W. Voorhees, Chairman Joint Select Committee on Additional Accommodations for the Library of Congress: * * * Your commission are of the opinion that many, if not all, the improvements required can be made to the Capitol by extending the eastern front of the center building, so planned that a connecting corridor may run from wing to wing. This arrangement will offer at times a more convenient means of access between the halls of legislation, and will at all times afford the means of better communica- tion between the wings on the gallery story. It will also provide additional rooms for committees, and for records and files. This improvement will have the further advantage of completing the east front in a manner as to give the dome a more proper position when viewed from an easterly direction, and will screen the present sandstone portion of that front with a structure of the same material as the wings. The halls of legislation may be brought to the windows of the outer walls by tak- ing out some of the interior walls, thus obtaining more light and exposure to the open air. Very respectfully, Edward Clark, Architect United States Capitol. To the Hon. D. W. Voorhees, Chairman of Joint Select Committee on Additional Accommodations for Library: Sir: * * * With the jiossible extension of the eastern facade of the original building, as before named, the number of committee rooms would be increased, and this alteration, in connection with the removal of the Library to a separate building, would afford vastly more conveniences for legislative purposes than are now had; furthermore, should it be deemed advisable, there might be had in this “extension” most appropriate space for the Supreme Court, with ample retiring and robing rooms for the justices, as well as rooms for the officers of said court, and with proper vesti- bules and entrances, all of which could be accomplished without encroaching upon the area devoted to committees, &c. An arrangement of the above character would leave the present court-room as an ante, devoting the same to the preservation and exhibition of paintings, statuary, and historically valuable articles; by this means also perfect seclusion would be secured to the justices, and, being far removed from the public passageway, the court would be free from outside sounds. Also, the light and ventilation might be made perfect by a separate system under the control of the court. * * # Very respectfully submitted. Washington, D. C., September 25, 1880. Alex. R. Esty. 1268 Documentary History of the Capitol. Report on the Extension of the Capitol of the United States. By John L. Smithmeyek, Architect. To the Hon. D. W. Vookhees, Chairman of the Joint Select Committee of Congress, &c. : * * * The truth is that even the very premises now occupied by the Library, however inadequate for its own specific purposes, are in the way of such necessary improve- ments as Congress does, or will soon, require for its own indispensable arrangements, and that even these premises will have to be yielded by the Library sooner or later to Congress for its own purposes; therefore the undersigned respectfully begs your honorable body not to hesitate in your report to impress Congress that the removal of the Library from the Capitol is unavoidable and only a question of time, with unmistakable reasons of economy in favor of its immediate separation from its pres- ent site, which cannot but result in the greatest benefits for the government and all parties concerned, and that whatever enactments Congress may adopt in this regard, the operations and measures caused thereby will not be of temporary interest or of passing expedience and importance only, but remain a permanent monument or index, in stone, of the economical wisdom and foresight, as well as of the artistic taste and skill, of our age and nation. Neither were the anticipations nor the accomplishments of our forefathers small or improvident in this direction, and yet before the very first century of our republic had elapsed, their grandest conception had fallen short of actual realities, and we are called upon to supply additional provisions for the further development of their creations. The best illustration of the difficulties inseparable from such a task consists in a brief review of the fast expansion of our national institutions in the past, and from it we may estimate with some degree of accuracy their steady growth of dimensions in future, and, consequently, their requirements after a few years, for which Congress must soon provide by legislation. In 1793, when President Washington laid the corner-stone of the Capitol for this nation, which was then in its infancy, Congress consisted of 105 members of the House of Representatives and 30 Senators, and then one Representative was allowed for every 33,000 citizens (the colored inhabitants having only three-fifths represen- tation). In 1872, when the last apportionment of representation per capita was made, fully 131,325 constituents were required for each Representative, and yet the House counted 293 and the Senate 76 members. The number of committees was then less than 30, and now it is 110 permanent ones, without counting the many temporary committees created in every session of Congress, which shows that in about 80 years the compass of accommodations wanted for the sessions and deliberations of Congress was more than three times as large as the proportions originally required. Of course it is admitted that such a ratio of increase will never recur again under whatever a proportion of growth of our population within the next century, because the necessity for any excessive size of the main halls may be obviated by a timely re- adjustment of the representation per capita, but no precautions can prevent the enor- mous accumulation of legislative work, which cannot be stopped, and necessitates numerous additions in close proximity to said halls: such as rooms for storing bound and unbound documents, archives for manuscript bills, resolutions, and petitions; chambers for committee labors; apartments for reference libraries; premises for the folding, packing, and dispatching bound documents — of which at times half a million of volumes must be taken care of; and many other conveniences, such as experimental researches, investigations, and private discussions of the many issues forced upon Congress with every new step of progress in our political or social economy, and with . Rep. 646 NORTHEAST VIEW OF PROPOSED EXTENSION OF CENTRAL EAST FRONT. 1269 Proposed Extension of Central East Front. the natural expansion of the collateral functions in the executive, judicial, or admin- istrative branches. Every year calls new interests into life, which need considera- tion from our national legislature. Every new discovery in our inexhaustible resources of agricultural and mineral wealth, nearly every new invention in industry or com- merce, and every step of our advancement in literature, science, and arts, adds new objects of study and additional labors to the many, and by no means easy, duties of uor Congressmen and their assistants and employes; and inasmuch as they are the creators of our laws, and, as such, the central figures of our government, representing in Congress the will and majesty of the whole nation, their requirements in facilities as well as in personal comforts and ease are undoubtedly paramount to the claims of any other institution, however grand and important. On the other side, our so-called Congressional Library, which is so deservedly the pride of our people and the object of envy to all the rest of the civilized world, has also claims of no small significance in its incalculable value and wonderful growth, and its removal from the Capitol might have been, perhaps, if not entirely obviated, at least postponed for many years, and our age might have been relieved of the re- sponsibility of legislation on this subject, if it was not for the circumstance that its original accommodations have been crowded beyond measure by a series of events now beyond our control. Not only the naturally rapid growth of a library, lavishly endowed by a rich and liberal people, but the nearly unlimited admission of books and publications of a promiscuous character, then the incorporations of the specific reference libraries of both houses of Congress, and, further, the acquisition of the Smithsonian library, besides numerous private donations, and finally the enormous and steady influx of literature. * * * When examining the general plan of this complex of buildings called the Capitol with the view of solving the first, proposition of the problem, viz, “ What changes can be made in or of the Capitol building for the better accommodation of both houses of Congress? ’ ’ the technical mind begins by looking for a proper starting point for the logical development of a system of enlargements which would comprehend the changes called for in this first part of said bill, and finds it in the central structure, viz, the dome. This grand dome is the central feature of the whole complex, and from its center an equilibrium should pervade the masses lying in the direction of the minor axis (east and west) as well as it exists in the direction of the major axis (north and south), so as to realize a certain strength in the corresponding parts and harmony and symmetry of the entire structure. In other words, there should be an extension on the east of the dome equal in dimensions to that on the west of it, as is the case north and south. Plate No. I.« By the absence of that corresponding extension the circumference of the dome is brought tangent to the outer line of the substructure east, and that fact explains the feeling of insecurity which the present position of the dome creates when viewed from the east, southeast, and northeast. That feeling is greatly enhanced by another fact, namely, that the colonnade, gal- lery, and base of the gigantic cupola project over the main (east) wall almost onto the second row of columns of the east portion for support. Plate No. II. The attention of the architect is therefore directed first to this defect, and to cor- rect it would be his first aim, when seeking space for an addition to the present structure. But the mere extension of the central portion eastward so as to make it correspond in dimensions to that one westward, would not afford sufficient space for the accommodations of Congress immediately needed, and much less would it provide a These drawings have not been engraved. 1270 Documentary History of the Capitol. for its future wants, or give to the building that harmonious and symmetrical appear- ance which would constitute it a unit. To effect the object set forth in the bill, it is necessary to erect an extension to the east of the dome, equal to that of the west of the dome not only, but also to add cor- ner pavilions to the four corners of the central building, in the direction of southeast, northeast, southwest, and northwest. Plate No. III. There is no cause for apprehension that by these additions and improvements more space should be obtained than will actually be needed. The narrow corridors which now connect the two wings north ^and south with the main body of the building should lie widened and spacious public stairways located therein, leading up to the galleries and down into the parterre story. This would also afford excellent facilities for more and better private communications between the respective halls and the other parts of the building for the members of both houses and their employes, and likewise the opportunity lie afforded for closing the lobbies against any undesirable throng, which would secure that quietness and ease which is so essential during important debates of legislative bodies, without interfering with the publicity of the sessions. For the purpose of effecting exposure to the open air for better light and ventilation, the halls of the two houses should be extended to the outer walls on the north and south sides, so that by opening the windows after each adjournment the fresh air might be freely admitted for the purification of the atmosphere in these chambers. The objection that, by such a measure, the discussions of Congress might be dis- turbed by the noise of passing vehicles or the playing of bands of music, &c. , is not tenable, because the former is prevented by the asphalt pavements, which reduce that noise to a harmless minimum, and the great expansion of the ornamental grounds around the Capitol is a bar to the noise from the latter, which, if desired, might be entirely obviated by limiting their approach within a certain distance during the sessions of Congress. By surmounting the legislative halls with suitable atticas four great advantages might be gained, viz: 1, the proportion of the height to the width of these halls would be regulated; 2, their acoustic properties would be improved; 3, the exterior appearance and proportion of the two wings containing them would be improved; and 4, one of the greatest difficulties in the solution of the vexing issue, how to secure the best sanitary arrangement for the hall of Representatives, would be removed. Now this chamber only provides 2.38 cubic feet of air per capita, or 12 cubic feet less than the minimum allowance according to hygienic laws, whilst the suggested alterations would afford not less than 390 cubic feet or 140 cubic feet more per capita than the established minimum, viz, 250 cubic feet. Moreover, if the four pavilions suggested around the central structure should be surmounted by four graceful domes of proper height and dimensions (or, if preferred, by eight equally appropriate turrets), the present disproportion between the height of the building 69 feet (exclusive of the dome), and its length, 751 feet from wing to wing, would be corrected and replaced by more graceful proportions, and the present complex of buildings with the colossal dome and the wings would be harmonized into one imposing structure, from which the grand dome would rise with evident repose and majesty, surrounded by the lesser domes or turrets and atticas. Plates No. IY, V, and VI. These domes or turrets, accompanied by corresponding courts and areas, would also afford the very best means for ventilating all parts of the edifice. * * * Very respectfully, your most obedient servant, J. L. Smith meyer, Architect. . Rep. 646 — 58-2. VIEW OF EAST FRONT, 1903. Proposed Extension of Central East Pront. 1271 [From the annual report of Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol, July 1, 1889. (51 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 3, p. 170.)] The marble and granite works of the terraces and stair-ways are nearly completed; and it is expected that some of the interior rooms will be ready for occupancy during the next session of Congress. The importance given to the western front of the Capitol by the construction of this terrace seems to require that the central portion of the building be extended and remodeled, which, when done, should be constructed of marble, as are the porticoes of the ivings. Plans have been made for this proposed improvement. [From the annual report of John W. Noble, Secretary of the Interior, Nov. 15, 18S . (51 — 1, House Ex. Doc. No. 1, pt. 5, v. 1, p. LXXXIX.)] It is suggested that the construction of the western terrace of the Capitol seems to require that the central portion of the building be extended and remodeled. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, nineteen hundred and two, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1901. (Stats, at Large, v. 31, 1156.)] To enable the Architect of the Capitol to prepare and submit to Congress at its next session plans, specifications, and estimates of cost for reconstructing and extend- ing in a fireproof manner the central portion of the Capitol building; the renovation and decoration of the rotunda; * * * one thousand five hundred dollars, to be immediately available. [From the appendix to the annual report of Elliott Woods, Superintendent of the United States Capitol Building and Grounds, July 1, 1902. (57—2, House Doc. 5, Misc. Repts., pt. 1, p. 441.)] EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL. INTRODUCTORY NOTE TO THE REPORT ON THE EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL. The Superintendent of the Capitol desires to state that the matter in the following report relating to the renovation of the Rotunda was prepared in accordance with the wishes and ideas of the late Architect of the Capitol, Edward Clark, who, while expressing strong sentiment that the Rotunda should not be remodeled, nevertheless expressed a desire to meet the washes of Congress by presenting Mr. Walter’s ideas so far as possible. There is no doubt, forming an opinion based entirely upon con- versations with the late Architect of the Capitol and his architectural draftsman, Mr. Schoenborn, both of whom had served with Mr. Walter, that the architect of the great Dome, W alter, felt that the appearance of the lower part of the Rotunda — that is to say, from the cornice line down to the floor — w r as one of weakness, due to the present arrangement and dimensions of the pilasters. Mr. Walter therefore proposed to increase the appearance of strength by the addition of marble columns and the rearrangement of the cornice, by a modification of the entering doorways, and by casing the walls from floor to cornice with marble. The writer is of the personal opinion, which is not to be considered as a criticism of the opinions of the former incumbents, that we can serve all useful purposes and preserve to the nation intact the past work of its great architects by restoring the Rotunda to its original sandstone finish ; by the use of suitable tints on the upper ironwork, so that the whole color scheme will harmonize with and preserve the 1272 Documentary History of the Capitol. frieze, and by a slight change in the dimensions of the present pilasters, which would add the lacking elements of strength and at the same time produce an appear- ance so similar to the present pilasters that the slight change would be, difficult of detection. Changing the relative proportions of the pilasters from the Corinthian to the Doric order would add about 12 inches to the present width. The drawing submitted will show by comparison the value of the proposed change. The present Rotunda floor should then remain, but would be resurfaced and put into presentable condition. The writer feels that subserving the national sentiment and preserving the historic Rotunda intact as far as possible will meet with a feeling of approval among those who are willing to bear with some slight defect in its appearance rather than with questionable innovation. It will be noted that in the latter part of the report on the Capitol extension that I have suggested, in the official capacity at that, time as Acting Architect, that the work outlined in the report be carried forward under the direction of the Joint Com- mittee of the two Houses of Congress. This recommendation was for the purpose of preserving the Capitol from untimely innovation. It enables Congress, by the aid of the proposed Joint Committee, to seek and obtain the best possible advice on all the subjects connected herewith. At the same time it makes Congress responsible in its choice of action. The Superintendent of the Capitol building desires to carry out the wishes of Con- gress in every particular and to the best of his ability, and should be aided by the best professional services obtainable provided for by the law through the medium of a joint committee of the two Houses. [57—1, House Doe. No. 586.] LETTER FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT OF THE CAPITOL BUILDING AND GROUNDS TRANSMITTING A REPORT RELATING TO THE EX- TENSION OF THE CAPITOL BUILDING AND RENOVATION OF TLIE ROTUNDA. Office of the Superintendent U. S. Capitol Building and Grounds, Washington, D. C. , May 3, 1902. Sir: In compliance with the sundry civil act approved March 3, 1901, directing the Architect of the Capitol to prepare and submit to Congress plans for the exten- sion of the central portion of the Capitol, for the renovation and decoration of the Rotunda, and for the erection, on ground adjacent to the Capitol, of a fireproof building for office, storage, and power-plant purposes, I transmit herewith so much of the report called for as relates to the extension of the Capitol building and reno- vation of the Rotunda. Very respectfully, Elliott Woods, Superintendent U. S. Capitol Building and Qrounds. The Speaker of the House of Representatives. Office of the Superintendent of the Capitol Building and Grounds, Washington, D. C., March 11, 1902. To the Congress: I have the honor to submit the following partial report, in accordance with the requirements of a law passed by Congress at the last session (sundry civil appropria- tion act approved March 3, 1901; 31 Stat. L., 1133), as follows: H. Rep. 646 — 58— ^ VIEW OF PROPOSED EXTENSION OF CENTRAL EAST FRONT. Proposed Extension of Central East Front. 1273 To enable the Architect of the Capitol to prepare and submit to Congress, at its next session, plans, specifications, and estimates of cost for reconstructing and extending in a fireproof manner the cen- tral portion of the Capitol building; the renovation and decoration of the Rotunda; also for the con- struction of a fireproof building adjacent to the grounds of the Capitol building, to be used for offices, storage, and power-plant purposes connected with the Capitol building, one thousand five hundred dollars, to be immediately available. EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL. For the extension of the east central portion of the Capitol I submit designs made by the late Thomas U. Walter, the former Architect of the Capitol, who built the present north and south wings. The studies were made by Mr. Walter with due regard to bringing the Capitol building to what he considered completion. The old building, fostered by Washington and designed by Thornton, was con- sidered to afford, when completed in 1830 , a ample accommodations for then exist- ing and jirobable future needs of the country; but the tremendous progress of the nation, the increase of population, and consequent legislative representation soon proved the old Capitol was too small to properly accommodate the legislative depart- ment of the Government. Then came the first extensions, begun in 1851 and completed in 1859. Congress authorized and Walter carried out the construction of the marble additions at the north and south. Walter adhered faithfully to the spirit of the original, and, real- izing that the future might again find the Capitol inadequate in accommodations, he turned his attention to the preparation of plans for an extension to the eastward of the present building, an extension which would harmonize with what already existed, which would give additional beauty to the splendid Dome he had designed and erected, and which he hoped would some day grace a completed structure. Walter has left as a heritage the plans which I now present you for consideration. He has left us a picture of his conception of the completed Capitol. What greater tribute to his remarkable genius could be paid than to say that, if completed in accordance with his plans, the-Capitol will gain a splendid addition, and yet, as one views it from the view point supposed in the perspective, it is still the Capitol. It would seem sacrilege to offer any other plan for consideration than the Walter plan. We may safely be guided by the thought, the effort, and the production of this great man’s genius. I do not think this plan should be altered in any particular, as far as concerns the exterior proportions and alignments. As relates to the interior arrangement of rooms, the requirements of the times are different, and changes are essential in the interior arrangement of the Walter plan to suit existing conditions. I therefore take the liberty of presenting a plan in which these modifications are set forth. In the modified plan it will be seen that while the splendid marble corridor leading to the Rotunda is preserved, a rearrangement of the rooms on either side is effected, giving as great a number as possible, with a total of 66 — 33 for the House and a like number for the Senate. The construction of this addition will cost, approximately, 12,500,000, and while it involves the removal of the old portico at the east it does not involve the removal of the principal walls of the old and historical portion of the Capitol. The present front wall of the old building remains as the rear wall of an open court, which lights the west side of the proposed new addition. In the proposed addition ample provision is made for elevators, stairways, and corridor connection with the corridors of the north and south wings, as well as for the direct communication with the Rotunda from the east. The details of the construction, such as arches and other masonry work, marble and plaster work, remain the same as in the wings. No departure from this idea will be a “In 1830 when the architect (Charles Bulfinch) left Washington for New England, the old Capitol was substantially completed,” etc. (The National Capitol, George C. Hazleton, jr., p. 49.) 1274 Documentary History of the Capitol. made. One should be able to pass from either wing through the new portion and see the same general structural and ornamental features. The magnificent entering vestibule, 108 feet long, will be but an enlarged example of that at the east doors of the Senate and House. The rooms will appear in interior form like those in the wings, and will be commodious and large, approximating 22 by 30 to 32 feet in dimension. THE ROTUNDA. The renovation of the Rotunda presents some exceptional difficulties. After a full consultation with some of the leading artists and visiting architects the conclusion is reached that two things are possible — either to decorate it as it is and let it alone, or to remodel all work below the cornice. Mr. Walter proposed to increase the appearance of strength of the present pilasters by the addition of outer columns and a modified cornice above. His ideas were that with the great mass added by the construction of the new dome, the old pilasters presented an element of weakness and required rearrangement. Our additional proposal is that we add a casing of marble, suitably disposed as to color, and carry the same to the cornice and reconstruct the latter in marble. Also, to reframe and somewhat elevate the historical paintings. The sketches presented do not embody more than suggestions, which can be explained and elaborated to the proper committee. I should add that they are the handiwork of the late August Schoenborn, who during the whole of Mr. Walter’s connection with the Capitol was his chief architectural draftsman. I feel, therefore, that these sketches will reflect many if not all of the views of Mr. Walter on this subject. The approximate cost of this part of the work is $275,000. I respectfully suggest and recommend that appropriations when made by Congress for either or both of the foregoing objects, be placed under the direction and super- vision of a joint committee of the two Houses. Elliott Woods, Superintendent U. S. Capitol Building and Grounds. Estimates for extension of the Capitol. Excavation $13, 643 50 Concrete foundation 21, 275 00 Stone and brick masonry 130, 908 00 Removal of old structure 12, 650 00 Total cost foundations $178,476 50 Rubbed marble square faced 318, 552 00 Main steps and platforms 40, 500 00 Arched ceilings and side walls under steps 10, 300 00 Marble floor, portico 14, 500 00 Columns, pilasters, pediments, architraves 395, 700 00 Balustrade over main cornice $21,152 00 Main cornice, modillion and modules 142, 600 00 Molded belt course under pilasters , 29, 740 00 Ceilings under portico and corridors 67,894 00 Granite bases, steps, etc 39, 650 00 Brickwork, walls and ceilings 178, 750 00 Plaster and ornamental work 82,717 00 Painting and decorating 90, 000 00 Plumbing and steam fitting 51, 450 00 SOUTHEAST VIEW OF PROPOSED EXTENSION OF CENTRAL EAST FRONT. Proposed Extension of Central East Front. 1275 Iron roof work, etc $36, 380 00 Tile and marble flooring 34, 880 00 Electric wiring and fixtures, machinery, etc 62, 500 00 Copper roofing _ 34, 800 00 Hauling •_ 23, 500 00 Machinery and tools 10, 500 00 Woodwork, door and frames, etc 45, 460 00 Carpenter work and incidentals 46, 000 00 Hardware 14, 500 00 Concrete arch and other work 20, 300 00 Contingencies 50, 000 00 Total $2,042,801 50 For the rehabilitation of the Rotunda in marble to base of upper col- umns; resetting in marble frames the historical paintings; decoration of upper section; putting in new Roman-Mosaic floor, and for all incidenal work such as entrances, etc. , all to conform to the artistic and structural requirements 275, 000 00 Total 2, 317, 801 50 [House proceedings of Feb. 10, 1903: Congressional Record, 57 — 2, p. 2009.] The House, as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union, having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1904 — Mr. Cannon. Mr. Chairman, I will detain the Committee, of the Whole for only a few minutes touching this bill and some matters of especial interest to the committee and the House, to which I wish to call attention. * * * Now, without further discussion of the bill, I crave the attention of the House to amendments that, have been discussed by the Appropriations Committee, and which have been investigated at the last session and the present session of Congress; and while we have not reported in this bill items covering the matters to which I shall refer, I have it in mind — I think with the approval substantially of the committee, and certainly of my own judgment — to move at the appropriate places the items to which I now desire to call attention. Mr. Chairman, the progress of the Republic is wonderful. If we stop to think about it, it overwhelms the individual and all of us. I am not an old man — I fancy I am not — but it is within my recollection as a boy, after I had begun to take some notice of public affairs as they were referred to in the few newspapers that we had away back in 1850, as a lad of 14, reading that Congress had authorized the exten- sion of the Capitol building; then year after year progress was rep jrted on the dome, this wing, the other wing, and finally, as I recollect, there was substantial completion — not full completion — along in the early sixties, when my friend from Pennsylvania [Mr. Grow] presided over the House. Mr. Grow. We did not have any roof on. Mr. Cannon. The gentleman says that no roof was on. He will recollect with more accuracy than myself as to when the two wings of the Capitol were occupied. But at the time the extension of this Capitol was determined upon we had 23,000,000 of people in the United States, 30 States — a population of 23,191,876, to be exact. The membership of the House, including Delegates, was 173. Each Representative represented 134,000 people. There were 36 committees of the House. The mini- mum membership of any committee was 3 and the maximum 9. The number of 1276 Documentary History of the Capitol. States represented in Congress was 31. In 1900 the population of the country was 76,000,000 plus. The membership of the next House, the Fifty-eighth Congress, will be 389, as against 173 a half century ago. Each Representative will represent 190,000 people. There are now 45 committees of the present House, as against 31 of the House of half a century ago. The minimum membership of the committee is 5 and the maximum 17, as against 9 of a half century ago. The number of States now represented in Congress is 45. I don’t know that it is necessary for me to say more touching the increase of population and the growth of the country, a country that had within its boundary and its institutions the material for everlasting differences and contention ripening ten years later in civil war — the greatest war, the most expensive war in blood and treasure, the most heroic war that was ever waged in the history of the race, involving an expenditure of $8,000,000,000 and a resulting expenditure in a pension roll of $140,000,000 a year. And the end is not yet. To-day we have a reunited country with material progress such as it has never experienced before, such as the world never before saw. Then we had the great unsettled West, what is now the Middle West and what is now the West, reaching out to the Pacific coast, an unknown country, presumed at that time to be of but little value, a land of desert, of wild beasts and wild men, abounding substantially in agriculture alone, not much of railways, not much of river and harbor accommo- dations, not much of improvements of inland navigation — not necessary. Then we had Chicago, with 50,000 people, minus; now it is a city of nearly two million. New York had a comparatively small population; Cincinnati less than a hundred thou- sand. Nothing at San Francisco, while the thousands of prosperous villages that reach out along 200,000 miles of railway, trading places as they are, with elevators and factories, were not. Mr. Chairman, no prophet could have foretold what has happened in that half century. Now, to the gratification of all of us, however we may throw words and sentences back and forth for partisan advantage, which I do not deplore, because ours is a government through parties, after we have fought our partisan fight, there is no man in the House upon either side who is not glad and glories in the growth and great- ness of his country, its material prosperity, its intellectual wealth. Without boast- ing, no population on earth can equal it. We are first in agriculture still, but in diversification of industry, through the enterprise and the industry and the cunning and the judicious use of capital, sometimes, perhaps, injudicious it appears as we try to solve some of the problems that present themselves, we leap forward in competition with all the world until this country of ours to-day, for capital, is many, many, many billions of dollars ahead of any nation on earth; and while we remain first in agri- culture, as far as manufactures are concerned we have, by virtue of the skill of our people, an annual product more than equal to the combined product of Great Britain and France and Italy and Austria. Now, I have thought proper, as an American citizen and as a member of the House of Representatives, to speak of this material condition, because in almost thirty years of public service I have seen the country grow. Here we have our Capitol, every- body proud of it, this great building of wonderful architecture, beauty, and excel- lence— we are proud to say, perhaps, the best capitol building on earth, everything considered. Yet, Congress by Congress and decade by decade, with the increase of members, it becomes more and more insufficient for the purposes of the Congress of the United States, enlarged as it has become in the legislation and the business of the whole country. I never have been an advocate of extravagant expenditures. I have always believed that enough was as good as a feast. Yet, in common with every other member, from one Congress to another, I have had the feeling that something ought to be done to enable the people’s Representatives especially, because we are the large . Rep. 646 — 58-! VIEW OF EAST FRONT OF THE CAPITOL FROM THE CONGRESSIONAL LIBRARY, 1903. Proposed Extension of Central East Front. 1277 body, as well as the popular body, to be better equipped in the Capitol and about the Capitol for the transaction of our legislative duties. [Applause.] The salary of a member of Congress is the same now that it was some time ago, a little less by twenty-five hundred dollars a year than it was when I entered Congress thirty years ago. Five thousand dollars is a large sum; yes. I have always lived at a hotel. I have never been able to keep house, I felt, in justice to myself and my family, because that meant entertainment. It meant expenditures for rent, in the absence of money to buy a house. It meant living in the house, and if you did as others did who keep house, economical though you might be, without frills, it meant the taking of from three to five thousand dollars of the salary, and then living in a very plain way, quite as plain as we would in our respective homes where our citizenship is. Now, then, I want to drop that and go to one other matter that I have in mind to offer for the consideration of the House. The Capitol building, the extension was designed by Mr. Walters, who died many years ago. You know what it is. It was never completed. The eastern projection, the size of which I will give you, by the original plan, was never built. I will just read it. For proposed extension of the Capitol as authorized it will make a total of 108 feet. That is on the east of the old building to the wall of the extension; giving an addition of 352 feet north and south, with not less than 66 rooms, 33 for each House. It will also add to the floor space of the building, 65,247 square feet. If accommodations for the Supreme Court room are provided in this proposed extension, the number of rooms available added will be reduced to 55, instead of 66. Further, the size of these rooms will be about that of the room of the Committee on Appropriations, about 25 by 28 feet, corresponding to the rooms now in the House wing of the building. The central extension would have 55 feet beyond the wall line of the present wing. Now, gentlemen will notice that the western extension has lately been put into committee rooms for the House and Senate. That was completed according to the original design. The corresponding extension on the east was never built. If gentlemen want to verify — if it needs any verification — if you will go out and look at the Dome on the east side, looking at the main wall of the building, you will see that the Dome extends 9 or 10 feet beyond the main wall to the east. The whole plans are in existence. There is a drawing, which I do not care to bring in here, that w r as made by Mr. Walters W'hen the original design w r as made, with complete plans in every respect for the extension of the building. Nowq I submit that the time has come, not only for an office building for the House, but for the completion of this Capitol. [Applause.] It will cost two and one-half million dollars to complete it. It can be completed in about the same time that it will take to build and complete the office building. If larger and increased room is wanted for the Senate, with or without the Maltby Building, it will give the Senate all the rooms that it will ever need. Because while this body will increase as the population increases, we have pretty nearly reached the limit as to the number of States of the Union. It would add to the architectural effect. It would give us the much-needed room for the transaction of business. But, say some, it costs a good deal. Yes; but, gentlemen, these new wings cost $8,000,000; and let me tell you something: The intelligent and patriotic and industrious service by every Congress for two years, well equipped from every standpoint and with every aid, would more than save the cost of the Capitol extension and the office building in appropriate leg- islation and appropriate legislation for the public service. So it is really economy instead of extravagance. Now, in my judgment, a pro- vision to finish the Capitol according to the original design would probably not be subject to a point of order. I have it in mind that this is the proper place in this bill to move an appropriation to commence with that work and authorize it by con- 1278 Docamentary History of the Capitol. tract, because, as the gentleman from Tennessee asked, “How long will it take?” We want it in this life, and we can not build — build as fast as we can, we can not more than half keep up with the increase in population. A large expenditure? Yes; about three and one-half millions, four million, six million dollars. Now, let us build the office building and put in the heating apparatus for the Capitol in the new office building, put in the mains that bring the heat and the steam and the electricity to this Capitol, clean out the old document room and get rid of the smells and the foul ventilation that is offensive to everbody, our constituents as well as others, have the Capitol as it ought to be, a clean, healthy place with room enough in which to transact the public business, and do it as citizens do who transact much less business than we do on their motion, and be prepared for it. Have we the money? Yes. I think this is the time for action. In my judgment, if action is not had at this session of Congress it is liable to go over a decade and possibly longer than that, and we go crippling along with our insufficient surround- ings. We have got a very considerable surplus in the Treasury. You can prove by me that there are a great many people in the United States that want to relieve the Treasury of that surplus. [Laughter.] There is the river and harbor bill, the public buildings bill, in the main well done. But once in a while there is an unwise appro- priation, but in the main pretty well held in hand. In the main the appropriations not justified are denied. But in my judgment, having the money and the where- withal for these amendments, if they are adopted and enacted into law, no better expenditure of §6,000,000 in the next two and a half years can be made than would be covered by these amendments. [Applause.] [House proceedings of Feb. il, 1903: Congressional Record, 57 — 2, p. 2049.] The House as in Committee of the Whole on the state of the Union having under consideration the sundry civil bill for 1904 — Mr. Cannon. Mr. Chairman, I offer the following amendment, which I will send to the desk and ask to have read. The Clerk read as follows: On page 73, after line 22, insert: '“Toward the extension and completion of the Capitol building, in accordance with the original plans therefor by the late Thomas U. Walter, with such modifications of the interior as may be found necessary or advantageous, and for each and every purpose connected therewith, $500,000; and the said construction shall be made under the direction of a commission composed of three Senators, to be appointed by the President of the Senate, and three members elect to the House of Representa- tives of the Fifty-eighth Congress, to be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress; and the Superintendent of the Capitol Building and Grounds, under the direction and supervision of said commission, is authorized to make contracts for said construction after proper advertisements and the reception of bids within a total sum not exceeding $2,500,000, including the sum herein appropriated, and said Superintendent, subject to the direction and approval of said commission, shall employ such professional and personal services in connection with said work as may be necessary. Any vacancy occurring by resignation or otherwise in the membership of the commission hereby created shall be filled by the presiding officer of the Senate or House, according as the vacancy occurs in the Senate or House representation on said commission.” Mr. Stephens of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I make the same point of order against that amendment as I did against the other. Sir. Cannon. Mr. Chairman, as to that amendment I do not confess that the point of order is well taken. The Chairman. The Chair will hear the gentleman from Texas on his point of order. Mr. Stephens of Texas. The point I raise is that it is new legislation. It has not been provided for in any other act of Congress, and the fact that it is brought here at this time shows that it is new legislation — asking that this extension of the Capi- tol building be made. It is certainly new legislation. H. Rep. 646-58-2. VIEW FROM ATTIC STORY, HOUSE WING, SHOWING PROJECTION OF THE BASE OF DOME OVER EAST WALL, 1903. Proposed Extension of Central East Front. 1279 Mr. Cannon. Mr. Chairman, there is a Capitol building and the original plan for the Capitol building was made by Mr. Walter a half century ago. The same are in existence. From time to time we have appropriated for its completion, even during my service. I am inclined to think that it is not subject to the point of order. It is a continuation of work in progress, I think, in the language of the rules. I think this is such work. It is true that it provides some machinery. It says under whose supervision it shall be done. Mr. Stephens of Texas. Will the gentleman yield for a question? Mr. Cannon. Certainly. Mr. Stephens of Texas. The gentleman will not insist that there is a Capitol building in process of construction now? Mr. Cannon. Oh, yes; that is what I do insist. Mr. Stephens of Texas. At the present time? Mr. Cannon. Yes; and there has been for fifty years. Mr. Stephens of Texas. Under existing law? Mr. Cannon. As a fact. Mr. Stephens of Texas. But as a legal question, as a matter of law? Mr. Cannon. I will say to the gentleman that the Capitol never has been com- pleted. The designs were made under the law and from time to timework has been done upon it which looks toward completion. Now, it does provide some machinery there, which I am inclined to believe is a mere incident by way of limitation of expenditure of money. It seems to me that is the only question. I want to state, however, that if the Chair has any doubt about it I am quite willing that it should be ruled out of order. I am aware that these rules should be strictly construed and any member can invoke them. My best opinion, however, is that it is not subject to the point of order. Mr. Little. Mr. Chairman, will the gentleman yield for a question? Mr. Cannon. Certainly. Mr. Little. I want to inquire if the proposition pending has been considered by the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. I understand that we have such a committee. Mr. Cannon. I am not aware of its ever having been so considered. Mr. Little. I did not know that that committee had capitulated. Mr. Cannon. I will say to my friend that the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds never did consider anything touching the Capitol. All appropriations for progress of work upon it have not been under the jurisdiction of that committee. Mr. Stephens, of Texas. Does not the gentleman think that when we spend such a vast sum of money the matter should be investigated by some committee of this House and reported in the regular way, instead of being attached to an appropria- tion bill, when there can be no consideration given to it? Mr. Cannon. I will say to the gentleman that it is a matter that has been elabo- rately considered for two sessions of Congress by the Committee on Appropriations, and a report made by direction of Congress by the Superintendent of the Capitol. That report is upon our desks . and is very exhaustive. It is indeed rare that any question involving an expenditure has received the exhaustive investigation that this proposition has received. Mr. Stephens, of Texas. Will the gentleman permit me? Mr. Cannon. Certainly. Mr. Stephens, of Texas. Was it investigated by the same authority that investigated the different attachments made to the White House? Mr. Cannon. No. Mr. Stephens, of Texas. Does not the gentleman think we wasted a great deal of money there unnecessarily? Mr. Cannon. Well, if that were true, it could not be pleaded in set-off. 1280 Documentary History of the Capitol. Mr. Stephens, of Texas. It might be a warning, however. Mr. Cannon. I am inclined to think, if you will except the office building, all the improvements of the White House have been apt. I do not mean in all their details. Nothing that is human is perfect. We will never have perfection anywhere until the millennium comes. Mr. Little. Do I understand the gentleman to maintain that the Committee on Appropriations have jurisdiction of this subject? Mr. Cannon. Absolutely. It was referred to us by the action of the House, and here is the report. Mr. Loud. I speak of the jurisdiction of the committee under the rule. Mr. Cannon. This is a work in progress, and the whole subject-matter has been referred to the committee by the action of the House. Mr. Little. By the action of the House? Mr. Cannon. Yes. Mr. Loud. Will the gentleman yield to me one moment? Mr. Cannon. Yes. Mr. Loud. Because the decision of this question maybe of considerable importance in the future. Mr. Cannon. Yes. Mr. Loud. Has the gentleman so carefully examined the law now upon the statute books providing for the construction of the Capitol that he is absolutely satisfied that the law now in existence would warrant further extension of this building? Mr. Cannon. I will say to the gentleman that the construction of this Capitol stands almost by itself, as to these tv'o wings. There never was a separate legislative act standing by itself that provided for it. Mr. Loud. Then, of course, an extension would not be in accordance wdth law. Mr. Cannon. It commenced in 1850 by an appropriation upon the diplomatic appro- priation bill, with authority to make plans, followed by appropriation after appro- priation substantially the same, making progress, and under the authority given and the appropriation of money plans were made for the extension of the Capitol, embrac- ing the western extension where the old library used to be, this where we are now, and the Senate extension. The plans gave an extension on the east similar to the western extension. That was never completed. The Dome has been completed; and, as proof of it, there the Dome stands, 9 or 10 feet over the wall. In addition to that, the plans are in existence. Now, if it is in order under the rule at all, it is in order because it is a work entered upon and not finished. Mr. Loud. Well Mr. Cannon. The gentleman recollects the exception as to public works in progress? Mr. Loud. The danger I want to call the attention of the gentleman to is as to public buildings. Somebody might contend that they are not completed, and in any appropriation bill you might carry a further appropriation of a very large amount of money. And I can not refrain from suggesting that the determination of this point of order shall go over until the bill is completed. It is a question of great importance to the House. Mr. Cannon. I want to say to the gentleman that in all public buildings, as a rule, there is a limit fixed. Mr. Loud. But there never was a limit named for this in the statute. Mr. Cannon. Precisely. In all public buildings, as a rule, there is a limit fixed, and whenever you exceed that limit you stop, because there is positive law. Here it is an appropriation in which there never was any limit, and a public work upon which there has been no limitation placed. Mr. Loud. Hence each appropriation is an act by itself. Mr. Cannon. No, for the completion of a public work already in progress. Now, in my judgment this is not subject to the point of order, but I am entirely careless, so far as I am concerned, whether the point is sustained or whether it is not sustained. H. Rep. 646 — 58-2. VIEW TAKEN DURING CONSTRUCTION OF DOME, SHOWING OVERHANGING COLONNADE. Proposed Extension of Central East Front. 1281 Mr. Richardson of Tennessee. Will the gentleman yield to me for a moment? Mr. Cannon. Certainly. Mr. Richardson of Tennessee. I am informed that Mr. Cos, a very celebrated parliamentarian, on the question of the building of a new building at West Point held that the amendment was in order. Mr. Cannon. I think such a ruling was made; but I do not care to -resort to that ruling. Many rulings have been made crisscross. I put this upon the ground that, I say, in my judgment, it is not subject to the point of order; that it is a public work in progress, the cost of which was never limited as to expenditure, and has been entirely made under a law which has never been complied with, and the building never completed. Now, that is my best opinion about it. [Cries of “Rule!”] Mr. Loud. I ask unanimous consent, Mr. Chairman, that the determination of this point of order may go over until the bill is completed. Mr. Cannon. I do not want to do that. Mr. Loud. I do not care for it myself, but in the future it may come to trouble you. For myself I shall not be in the next House. Mr. Cannon. I want to dispose of these two matters before we go much further, one way or the other. The Chairman. The Chair is ready to rule. Section 2 of Rule XXI provides: No appropriation shall be reported in any general appropriation bill, or be in order as an amend- ment thereto, for any expenditure not previously authorized by law, unless in continuation of appro priations for such public works and objects as are already in progress; nor shall any provision changing existing law be in order in any general appropriation bill or in any amendment thereto. The amendment offered by the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Cannon] proposes to appropriate a certain sum for the completion of the Capitol building in accordance with the original plans and specifications and in accordance with existing law. That the construction of the building is incomplete is conceded, but the work necessary to its completion has been interrupted for a series of years. This interruption or delay, in the opinion of the Chair, does not operate so as to take this proposed amendment out of the operation of the exception to the general rule just read, which is “ unless in continuation of appropriations for such public works and objects as are already in progress.” If the work incident to the completion of the building was now in prog- ress no one would claim that this amendment would not come within the exception just mentioned. On February 19, 1885, the House was in Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union, considering the naval appropriation bill. A paragraph “For the completion of the NeiO Tori:, $400,000,” had been reached when Mr. Joseph G. Cannon, of Illinois, made a point of order against it. The Chairman of the Com- mittee of the Whole [Mr. Olin Wellborn, of Texas] ruled: Now, the Chair must believe that the construction of this ship is a public work. The Chair also believes that it is in progress. The mere fact that this vessel, begun in 1865, is confessedly still incomplete, the Chair thinks, so far as this rule is concerned, does not show that that work is not now in progress. The fact that the actual construction is temporarily interrupted for want of appro- priation or some other reason does not interfere with the idea that the work is in progress. The Chair therefore overrules the point of order. In the opinion of the Chair, therefore, the amendment is not obnoxious to para- graph 2 of Rule XXI upon the ground that the appropriation is not in continuation of such public works as are already in progress. But the point of order made by the gentleman from Texas goes further. It is claimed that the amendment is not in order because it involves new legislation or would be legislating upon an appropriation bill. It provides that the completion of the Capitol building as originally proposed shall be “ under the direction of a com- mission composed of three Senators, to be appointed by the President of the Senate, and three members-elect of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-eighth Con- H. Rep. 646 81 1282 Documentary History of the Capitol. gress, to be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Fifty- seventh Congress, and the superintendent of the Capitol building and grounds,” and authorizes this commission to enter into contracts for the said construction “after proper advertisement, ’ ’ and also authorizes said commission to employ such profes- sional and personal services in connection with said work as may be necessary, and then specifies how vacancies upon said commission hereafter occurring are to be filled. This, in the opinion of the Chair, is legislation inhibited by the last paragraph of the clause of Rule XXI which the Chair has just read. This question, almost identical in form, was decided on February 28, 1898, by the Chairman of the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union, Mr. Sereno E. Payne, and for the information of the committee I will read from para- graph 513, Parliamentary Practice of the House of Representatives of the United States, page 289: Provided also for the appointment of a commissioner-general and other officials, with specified dutes and salaries; authorized certain heads of departments to prepare exhibits under certain condi- tions and regulations, etc. Mr. Levin I. Handy, of Delaware, made the point of order that this was legislation on an appropri ation bill. After debate, during which the act of 1897, in which the invitation of the French Government was accepted and a special commissioner was authorized to make report on the subject, was referred to as authority for the provisions of the section, the chairman ruled: “The Chair thinks the act of 1897 is sufficient foundation for an appropriation, but not for legisla- tion. The Chair is unable to see wherein it authorizes the office of commissioner-general or assistant commissioner from the reading of the law by the gentleman from Illinois. The rule in regard to the continuation of public works simply authorizes an appropriation in the continuance of public works and not the appointment of officers. * * * The rule would simply authorize an appropriation, but would not authorize legislation upon the subject in a general appropriation bill. There are in this paragraph several clauses which are distinctly new legislation, and if in a paragraph any clause or provision is out of order the point of order against the whole paragraph must be sustained. Of course after the paragraph had gone out, it would be in order to offer any provision relating to the same subject which might be in order; but when the point is raised against the whole paragraph, and the paragraph contains a clause obnoxious to the rule, the whole paragraph must go out,” etc. The facts in the case just read being almost identical with the facts in the case now before it, the Chair is clearly of opinion, after a careful reading of the proposed amendment, that it proposes new legislation in connection with the proposed appro- priation, which is not permissible under the rule, and that, therefore, the amend- ment is not in order. Mr. Cannon. Mr. Chairman, I move that the committee do now rise. The motion was agreed to. The committee accordingly rose; and Mr. Lacey having assumed the chair as Speaker pro tempore, Mr. Tawney, Chairman of the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union, reported that that committee had had under consideration the bill H. R. 17202, and had come to no resolution thereon. * * * EXTENSION OF THE CAPITOL BUILDING. Mr. Grosvenor. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following privileged rule from the Com-' mittee on Rules: The Clerk read as follows: The Committee on Rules, to whom was referred the resolution of the House No. 443, have had the same under consideration and report it herewith with the recommendation that it be agreed to. Resolved, That it shall be in order to consider as an amendment to the bill (H. R. 17202) making appropriations for sundry civil expenses a proposition to provide for the extension and completion of the Capitol building. Mr. Grosvenor. Mr. Speaker, I presume there will be no desire for debate on this motion. I therefore ask for a vote. . Rep. 646 — 58-2. NORTHEAST VIEW OF PROPOSED EXTENSION OF CENTRAL EAST FRONT. Proponed Extension of Central East Front. 1283 The question was considered; and the resolution was agreed to. Mr. Cannon. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House resolve itself into Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for the further consideration of the sun- dry civil appropriation bill. The motion was agreed to. Accordingly the House resolved itself into Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union, with Mr. Tawney in the chair. The Chairman. The House is now in Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for the further consideration of the sundry civil appropriation bill. * * * Mr. Cannon. I offer the amendment which I send to the desk. The Clerk read as follows: Toward the extension and completion of the Capitol building in accordance with the original plans therefor by the late Thomas U. Walter, with such modifications of the interior as may be found necessary or advantageous, and for each and every purpose connected therewith, 8500,000; and the said construction shall be made under the direction of a commission, composed of three Senators, to be appointed by the President of the Senate, and three Members-elect to the House of Representa- tives of the Fifty-eighth Congress, to be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress; and the superintendent of the Capitol building and grounds, under the direction and supervision of said commission, is authorized to make contracts for said construction after proper advertisements and the reception of bids, within a total sum not exceeding 82,500,000, including the sum herein appropriated, and said superintendent, subject to the direction and approval of said commission, shall employ such professional and personal services in connection with said work as may be necessary. Any vacancy occurring by resignation or otherwise in the membership of the commission hereby created shall be filled by the presiding officer of the Senate or House, according as the vacancy occurs in the Senate or House representation on said commission. The question being taken, the amendment of Mr. Cannon was agreed to. [From the “Act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June thirtieth, nineteen hundred and four, and for other purposes,” approved Mar. 3, 1903. (Stats, at Large, v. 32, pt. 1, 1113.)] For the Capitol . — For work at Capitol, and for general and special repairs thereof, including wages of mechanics and laborers, and not exceeding fifty dollars for the purchase of technical and necessary books, two hundred and ninety-five thousand nine hundred and fifty dollars, to be immediately available, of which sum not exceeding seven thousand dollars may be used for models, but nothing in this appro- priation shall be considered as initiating any change in the East front of the Capitol or in any way committing Congress to the same. INDEX A. Abbott, Dr. A. C., 966. Abert, Col. J. J., 408, 410, 416, 417, 422, 424, 506, 525. Abuses and frauds alleged in contracts, 550, 551, 567, 569, 574, 575, 576, 577. Accommodation of Congress in Washington, 90. Acquia Creek, Ya., quarries at, 11. Acquia freestone, 115, 1018, 1019. Acropolis, Athens, 1131. Adams, John, 79, 82, 86, 89, 91, 92, 182, 1186. Adams, John Quincy, 279, 294, 1190. Adams, Stephen, Senator from Mississippi: De- bates, 548, 549, 576, 607, 1056. Addresses of the President, 86, 89, 91, 92. Adjutant-General, Acting, U. S. Army, 1026. Advertisement for plans for Old Capitol, 14, 15. for extensions, 445. Agriculture, Bureau of, 1186. Agriculture, Committed on, House, decorations in room of, 670. Aldrich, Nelson W., Senator from Rhode Island: Report by, 391, 392. Alexandria, Ya., 7, 8, 10, 11. capture of, by the British, 172, 173. Alexandria County, Va. , retroceded by the United States, 11. Allen, John, Representative from Connecticut: Debates, 79. Allen, Philip, Senator from Rhode Island: De- bates, 601, 602, 603. Allen, William, Senator from Ohio: Debates, 339. Allison, William B., Senator from Iowa: Debates, 939, 940, 941, 942, 946, 947, 950, 951, 958, 1030, 1031, 1203, 1212, 1213, 1217, 1219, 1220, 1221, 1222, 1226, 1238, 1239, 1246, 1247, 1259, 1260, 1261. Alston, Willis, Representative from North Caro- lina: Amendment offered by, 161; Debates, 104, 124, 155, 161, 181, 185. Alterations in plans, Old Building, after con- struction was begun, 31, 35, 37, 108, 109. Alterations of public buildings authorized, 189. Ambler, Jacob A., Representative from Ohio: De- bates, 1140. America, statue of, 737. American artists in Italy, 737. American artists, memorial of, 729, 733. Ames, Fisher, 746. Ames, J. T., 348, 840, 859. Anderson, Charles F., 833, 834, 835, 842. Anderson, Joseph, Senator from Tennessee: De- bates, 111. Anderson, William C., Representative from Ken- tucky: Report by, 743, Andrei, Giovanni, 132, 164, 265, 266. Angelo, Michael, 701, 730, 1233. Anthony, Henry B., Senator from Rhode Island: Debates, 853, 1092, 1209. Antisell, Dr. Thomas, 842, 846. Appropriation, first, for completing the public buildings (1798), debate and proceedings on, 82, 83. act authorizing, 83. Appropriation toward payment of Maryland loan, 102 . Appropriations for Capitol and grounds, see under Extensions, Dome, Grounds, Old Build- ing, and Terraces. Aqueduct, the Washington, 609. Archer, Stevenson, Representative from Mary- land: Debates, 1139. Architect, Government, 664. Architect of the Capitol, 206, 207, 211, 212, 214, 217, 227, 228, 234, 238, 239, 240, 241, 242, 244, 245, 251, 252, 254, 257, 259, 265, 266, 270, 272, 274, 281, 283, 284, 287, 294, 296, 297, 306, 307, 311, 320, 325, 342, 344, 346, 369, 372, 376, 391, 392, 396, 402, 906, 907, 913, 922, 923, 924, 926, 928, 929, 930, 932, 933, 934, 937, 938, 939, 941, 942, 943, 945, 946, 948, 949, 954, 955, 956, 958, 959, 963, 970, 971, 972, 973, 975, 979, 980, 981, 985, 987, 1037, 1038, 1039, 1170, 1180, 1181, 1183, 1184, 1197, 1200, 1201, 1203, 1209, 1211, 1216, 1217, 1218, 1219, 1220, 1227, 1230, 1232, 1236, 1237, 1241, 1242, 1247, 1261, 1267, 1271, 1272, 1273. Architect of the Capitol Extension, 347, 348, 350, 361, 366, 368, 369, 449, 452, 454, 459, 461, 464, 475, 477, 478, 479, 481, 482, 487, 494, 500, 516, 517, 518, 520, 523, 525, 531, 551, 552, 570, 573, 574, 575, 577, 578, 579, 580, 581, 682, 594, 607, 612, 621, 623, 624, 635, 639, 641, 749, 752, 753, 774, 794, 799, 808, 811, 814, 820, 822, 826, 830, 833, 838, 842, 858, 859, 860, 861, 862, 870, 872, 873, 875, 876, 878, 881, 883, 884, 890, 891, 892, 893, 905, 961, 962, 990, 991, 993, 998, 999, 1000, 1003, 1021, 1022, 1023, 1024, 1026, 1027, 1072, 1073, 1074, 1080, 1082, 1084, 1086, 1087, 1105, 1106, 1144, 1145, 1153, 1158, 1159, 1160, 1161, 1162, 1164, 1165, 1166, 1264, 1265. Architect of the public buildings, 335, 338, 344, 346. Architectural Iron Works, 365. Architects, critical references to, 19, 1254. Architects of the Capitol, sketch of, 11. Area wall and terrace, west front, 300, 301. 1285 1286 INDEX. Areopagus, court of, 885, 1131. Arlington Heights, 1098. Arms, coats of, States’ , 691. Army bakery in Capitol, removal of, 811, 813. Army officers in charge of public works, 609 et seq., 619 et seq., 634 et seq., 639, 670, 791, 792, 795, 799, 802, 808. Art Commission, 671 et seq., 691, 701, 702, 706, 722, 729, 736, 743, 744, 752, 753, 754, 755, 756, 757, 770, 771, 772, 773, 774, 775, 776, 777, 784, 888. Artists, foreign, employment of, 731. memorial of American, 729, 733. Art Metal Construction Company, 987. Art works, see under Extensions and Old Build- ing. list of, and cost of, 862, 863. Ashley, James M., Representative from Ohio: Debates, 335. Atchison, David R., Senator from Missouri: De- bates, 503, 504. Atkins, John D. C., Representative from Tennes- see: Debates, 890, 897, 898, 905, 923, 926, 927, 928, 929, 930, 931, 932. Attorney-General, 285, 287, 310, 320, 591, 1074, 1083, 1177. Augur, Major-General, 1026. Averill, P. L., 406. B. Babcock, Col. Orville, 1186. Babcock, Joseph W., Representative from Wis- consin: Debates, 380, 381. Babylon, 729. Bache, Prof. A. D., 587, 587, 592, 846, 992. Bacon, Ezekiel, Representative from Massachu- setts: Debates, 168, 169. Bacon, John, Representative from Massachusetts: Debates, 104. Bacon, Samuel, 1077. Bacon, William J., Representative from New York: Amendment offered by, 923. Badger, George E., Senator from North Carolina: Debates, 443, 500, 510, 511, 512, 513, 514, 647, 548, 550, 567, 605, 606. Bailey, Joseph W., Representative from Texas: Debates, 394. Ball, Edward, Representative from Ohio, 645; Debates, 631, 632, 633, 634, 635, 636, 637, 638, 639, 640, 641, 645, 646, 647, 648, 649, 650; Reso- lutions of inquiry by, 631, 632, 633, 643, 645. Baltimore and Potomac Railroad, 1135. Bank of Columbia, loan by, 96. Banks, Nathaniel P., Representative from Massa- chusetts: Amendment offered by, 1115; De- bates, 902, 903, 904, 1115, 1116, 1128, 1135, 1138, 1139, 1140, 1141, 1142. Barbour, James, Secretary of War, 285; Senator from Virginia: Debates, 176. Barbour, Philip P., Representative from Virginia: Debates, 173. Barry, Sir Charles, 471. Bartlett, Ichabod, Representative from New Hampshire: Debates, 269, 277, 278, 281, 293. Baird, Prof. Spencer F., 913,920, 922. Bakery for the Army, 787. Ballard, Commodore, 556. “Barbacue trees,” 1191. Barksdale, William, Representative from Missis- sippi: Debates, 648, 650, 672, 774. Barnard, Daniel D., Representative from New York: Resolution by, 408. Barry, Gen. W. F., 1026. Baths in the Capitol, number of, 13. Bartholdt, Richard, Representative from Mis- souri: Debates, 381, 386, 388. Beauty and grandeur of the Capitol, 1248, 1276. Bayard, James A., Senator from Delaware: Amendment offered by, 1057; Bill reported by. 1055; Debates, 161, 352, 354, 355, 596, 597, 598, 599, 603, 604, 608, 724, 764, 1006, 1055, 1056, 1058, 1059, 1063, 1064. Bayley, Thomas H. , Representative from Vir- ginia: Debates, 444. Bayne, Thomas M., Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Debates, 927, 936. Beaman, Fernando C., Representatve from Mich- igan: Debates, 1103. Beale, Charles L., Representative from New York: Amendments offered by, 770, 771, 775; De- bates, 770,771. Beale, James M. H., Representative from Virgina, 559; Debates, 460, 472, 479, 486. Beals & Dixon, 638. Beck, James B., Senator from Kentucky, 928; Amendments offered by, 1204; Debates, 370, 371, 372, 928, 942, 943, 944, 954, 1177, 1178, 1204, 1205, 1206, 1207, 1208, 1213, 1214, 1215, 1216, 1217, 1222,1223,1251,1260,1261; Motion by, 1179. Beckwith, A., 789. Beebe, James & Co., 345, 347, 348, 1011. Beech tree in grounds described by Senator Charles Sumner, 1154, 1155. Benjamin, John F., Representative from Mis- souri: Debates, 1101, 1102, 1103, 1104. Benjamin, Judah P., Senator from Louisiana: Debates, 1063. Bell, John C., Representative from Colorado: De- bates, 390.’ Bell, Hiram, Representative from Ohio: De- bates, 455. Beecher, Philemon, Representative from Ohio: Debates, 277. Bellinger, Joseph, Representative from South Carolina, 211. Benton, Thomas H., Senator from Missouri, 276; Debates, 299. Berkshire, Mass., marble quarries, 516. Berry, Campbell P., Representative from Cali- fornia: Debates, 925. Bigelow, Abijah, Representative from Massa- chusetts: Debates, 184. Bigler, William, Senator from Pennsylvania: Resolution offered by, 743. Billings, Dr. John S., 891, 893, 907, 913, 920, 922, 966, 970. Bingham, Henry H., Representative from Penn- sylvania: Debates, 387. Bingham, John A., Representative from Ohio: Debates, 780, 1136, 1140. Bird, John T., Representative from New Jersey: Debates, 880, 881. Blackburn, Joseph C. S., Representative from Kentucky: Debates, 926, 927, 928, 958, 959, 960, 961, 962, 963, 964, 965. Blagden, George, 35, 108, 143, 147, 279. INDEX, 1287 Blaine, James G., Representative from Maine: Debates, 1028, 1029. Blair, Frank P., 1091; Representative from Mis- souri: Debates, 807. Blodget, Samuel, jr., 19, 22, 24, 26. Blount, James H., Representative from Georgia: Debates, 925, 926, 933, 935, 936. Borland, Solon, Senator from Arkansas, 550; Amendments offered by, 534, 567, 569, 573, 623; Debates, 350, 351, 462, 463, 497, 498, 499, 500, 501, 502, 503, 504, 509, 510, 511, 512, 513, 514, 515, 521, 522, 523, 524, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 535, 536, 538, 539, 541, 547, 549, 550, 567, 568, 569, 570, 571, 575, 676, 578, 579, 580, 583; Reports by, 551, 636; Resolutions by, 505, 509, 1052. Bowen, John H., Representative from Tennessee: Debates, 181. Bradley, Stephen R., Senator from Vermont: De- bates, 149, 160. Brooke, Walter, Senator from Mississippi: De- bates, 351. Brooks, James, Representative from New York: Debates, 1130, 1131, 1134, 1137. Browne, Thomas H., Representative from Indi- ana: Debates, 934, 936. Blackledge, William S., Representative from North Carolina, 243, 244, 245; Debates, 249, 255, 1035. Blake, John B., 1053, 1065, 1066, 1189. Bliss, Cornelius N., 376, 972, 1200. Bloodgood, S. De Witt, 341. Board of Internal Improvements, 1048. Bocoek, Thomas S., Representative from Virginia: Debates, 649. Bogardus & Hoppen, 348. Bonham, Milledge L., Representative from South Carolina: Debates, 778. Boston Iron Company, 338. Boilers in the Capitol, number of, 13. Boteler, Alexander R., Representative from Vir- ginia: Debates, 778. Boteler, Charles W., jr., 1077. Botanic Garden, 330, 1167, 1168, 1184, 1186, 1197. Bourne, Benjamin, Representative from Rhode Island: Debates, 60. Boutwell, George S., Representative from Massa- chusetts: Debates, 829. Bomford, Lieut. Col. G., 220, 221, .222, 228. Bourdeaux, France, municipality of, 21. Bowen, John H., Representative from Tennessee: Debates, 174. Bowman, Captain, 636. Boyce, William W., Representative from South Carolina: Debates, 693. Boyd, Linn, Representative from Kentucky, 347. Bragg, Thomas, Senator from North Carolina: Debates, 761. Bradbury, James W., Senator from Maine: De- bates, 526, 583. Branch, John, Senator from North Carolina: De- bates, 298. Branch, Lawrence O’B., Representative from North Carolina: Debates, 696, 697. Brandt, John D., 1077. Breckinridge, John C., bust of, 973. Vice-President, United States, 752. Brent, Richard, Representative from Virginia: Debates, 44, 47, 48, 49, 52, 55, 56, 58, 59, 72, 79, 104. Brenton, Samuel, Representative from Indiana: Amendment offered by, 490. Bricklayers, importation of, 16. Bricks discarded for outer walls, 29. Bridges, S. A., Representative from Pennsylvania: Debates, 918. Bridport, George, 146. Bright, Jesse D., Senator from Indiana: 656, 743, 754, 1016, 1168; Amendments offered by, 721, 722, 757, 760, 763, 766; Bills introduced by, 752, 1066, 1067; Debates, 442, 711,714,718,719, 721, 722, 757, 758, 762, 763, 1013, 1067; Resolu- tions by, 711, 714, 721, 740, 1013. British, burning of the Capitol and other build- ings by the, 171, 172, 173. British Parliament Houses, 614. Brodhead, J. M., 1077. Brodhead, Richard, Senator from Pennsylvania: Amendment offered by, 525; Debates, 349, 352, 497, 625, 527, 545, 603, 606, 1055, 1056. Brooke, Walter, Senator from Mississippi, 550. Brooks, James, Representative from New York: Debates, 829, 834, 835, 836, 837, 838. Brown, Albert G., Representative from Mississip- pi: Debates, 477, 712, 717, 1055; Resolution introduced by, 1054. Brown, Glenn, 376. Brown, Henry K., 749, 755, 773. Browning, O. H., 367, 855, 862, 1028, 1082, 1265. Browning, W. J., 979. Brumidi, Constantino, 372. Buchanan, James, 641, 702, 743, 790, 825. Buckalew, Charles R., Senator from Pennsylva- nia: Amendments by, 842, 850, 854; Debates, 842, 843, 844, 845, 846, 849, 850, 851, 852, 853, 854, 1264; Report by, 843. Buckner, Aylett H., Representative from Mis- souri: Debates, 906. Buffinton, James, Representative from Massa- chusetts: Debates, 633. Bulfinch, Charles, 12, 201, 206, 207, 212, 214, 216, 217, 227, 228, 234, 236, 237, 240, 242, 244, 245, 251, 252, 254, 257, 259, 266, 270, 272, 274, 284, 285, 287, 294, 296, 297, 306, 307, 308, 310, 311, 320, 1037, 1039. Bumford, Lieutenant-Colonel, 198. “Buncombe,” ad captandum, speeches, 726. Bunker Hill Monument, 555. Burch, Frederick A., 591, 592. Burd, George, Representative from Pennsylva- nia: Debates, 326. Burges, Tristam, Representative from Rhode Is- land: Debates, 293. Burnett, Henry C., Representative from Ken- tucky: Debates, 647, 648, 649, 726, 728, 1010. Burning of the Capitol and other buildings by the British, 171, 172, 173. Burr, Aaron, Senatorfrom New York: Debates, 74. Burton, Theodore E., Representative from Ohio: Debates, 388, 389. Busey, Samuel C., memorial of, 1060, 1061, 1288 INDEX. Butler, Benjamin F., Representative from Mas- sachusetts: Amendments offered by, 875, 878, 1102, 1105, 1112; Debates, 875, 876, 877, 878, 881, 882, 883, 881, 885, 886, 887, 916, 917, 918, 919, 920, 921, 922, 1102, 1103, 1112, 1120, 1124, 1125, 1130, 1132, 1133, 1137, 1141. Butler, Matthew C., Senator from South Carolina: Debates, 956, 957, 958, 959, 960, 961, 962, 963, 964; Resolution offered by, 956. C. Cabot, George, 14, 17. Cadwalader, John, Representative from Penn- sylvania: Debates, 649. Calhoun, John C., 697, 1146; Representative from South Carolina: Debates, 1032. Calkins, William H., Representative from Indi- ana: Debates, 922, 935, 936. Call, Wilkinson, Senator from Florida: Debates, 945, 961. Camaron, George, 1041. Cameron, Simon, Secretary of War, 786; Senator from Pennsylvania: Debates, 1146, 1202. Campbell, James H., Representative from Penn- sylvania: Debates, 772, 773, 774. Campbell, John, Representative from Maryland: Debates, 110. Campbell, John P., Representative from Ken- tucky: Debates, 647, 648. Campbell, John W., Representative from Ohio: Debates: 269, 288, 290. Campbell, Lewis D., Representative from Ohio, 998, 1000, 1003, 1004, 1005. Camp, John H., Representative from New York: Debates, 937. Canaday, W. P., 938. Canadian stone, 1170. Canal, 330, 1040, 1042, 1043. Cannon, Joseph G., Representative from Illinois, 981,982; Amendments offered by, 1278, 1283; Debates, 387, 1275, 1276, 1277, 1278, 1279, 1280, 1281, 1282, 1283; Reports by, 978. Capital, resolutions for removal of, to Mississippi Valley, 1089 et seq. Capitals, marble, from Italy, 215, 218. Capitol, beauty of, referred to, 1248, 1276. constructively unfinished, 1279, 1280. facts concerning, 11, 13. plans of, see Extensions and Old Building. Capitol Square, see Grounds. Capitolum, Rome, 1131. Carlisle, John G., Representative from Kentucky, 1228. Carnley, King & Co., 348. Carpenter, Matthew H., Senator from Wisconsin: Debates, 1099. Carpenters, employment of, 20. Carrara marble, 707. Carroll, Daniel, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35. Carroll, Law & May, 185. Carroll Row, 1076. Carson, Samuel P., Representative from North Carolina: Debates, 318. Carstairs, Mr., 26, 27, 28. Carter, Luther C., Representative from New York: Debates, 778. Carter, Mrs., 1076. Cartter, David K., Representative from Ohio: Debates, 454, 455, 488, 492. Casey, Lieut. Col. Thomas L., 893, 907, 922. Casparis House, 1088. Cass, Lewis, Senatorfrom Michigan: Debates, 442, 443, 461, 462, 463, 502, 52S, 530, 533, 535, 536, 545, 597, 598, 599, 602, 604, 605, 618, 1006, 1056; Resolution by, 461. Casserly, Eugene, Senator from California: De- bates, 1096, 1097. Castle Garden, New York, 588. Cate, Lieutenant, 787. Causici, Enrico, 262. Centennial Exhibition at Philadelphia, Pa., 1164. Central East Front, Proposed Extension of: Additional rooms to be afforded by, 1265, 1266, 1267, 1268, 1269, 1273, 1277. Advocated by Joseph G. Cannon, Representa- tive from Illinois, 1275, 1277, 1278, 1280. Appropriation for, discussed and passed by House of Representatives, February 11, 1903, 1278, 1282, 1283. Commission proposed to supervise construction of, 1278, 1283. Debates on, in House, 1275, 1278, 1282. Debates on, in, Senate, 1245, 1248, 1249, 1252, 1264. Estimated cost of, 1273, 1274, 1275, 1278. Estimates of cost of, authorized to be prepared, 1271, 1272, 1273. Models of, authorized to be made, 1283. Necessity of, 1264, 1265, 1269, 1277. Plans for, 1264, 1265, 1266, 1271, 1272, 1273. authorized to be prepared, 1271, 1272, 1273. Plan by Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol Extension, 1266, 1271. by Thomas U. Walter, Architect of the Capitol Extension, 1264, 1271, 1273, 1277, 1278, 1279, 1283. Recommendation of, by O. H. Browning, Sec- retary of Interior, 1265, 1266. by Commission on Accommodations for Library of Congress, 1267. by Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol Extension, 1264, 1265, 1267, 1271. by James Harlan, Secretary of Interior, 1264. by John W. Noble, Secretary of Interior, 1271. by Carl Schurz, Secretary of Interior, 1266. by John L. Smithmeyer, 1268, 1269. by Thomas U. Walter, Architect of the Capi- tol Extension, 1264. by Elliott Woods, Superintendent of the Capi tol Building and Grounds, 1271, 1272, 1273 1274. Referred to — by Charles R. Buckalew, Senator from Penn- sylvania, 853. by Norton P. Chipman, Delegate from the District of Columbia, 1108. by George F. Edmunds, Senator from Ver- mont, 1245. by Eugene Hale, Senator from Maine, 1248, 1249, 1252. by Charles O’Neill, Representative from Pennsylvania, 911. References to, 406, 1108. Report on, by John L. Smithmeyer, 1268. Space for Supreme Court in, 1267. INDEX. 1289 Central Park, New York City, 1154, 1160, 1216. Cession of district, 10 miles square, by the State of Maryland, 5, 7, 9, 10. by the State of Virginia, 5, 7, 9. Chamberlain, J. P., Representative from New York: Debates, 804. Chambers, Ezekiel F., Senator from Maryland: Debates, 301, 319. Chambers, Henry, Senator from Alabama: De- bates, 1037. Chandelier, old Representatives’ Hall, 336, 337,338. Chandler, John, Senator from Maine: Debates, 299. Chandler, Joseph R., Representative from Penn- sylvania: Debates, 486, 487, 488, 609. Chandler, William E., Senator from New Hamp- shire: Debates, 960. Chandler, Zachariah, 1161. Chapman, John G. , 335, 341. Chase, Salmon P., Senator from Ohio: Debates, 442. Chastelain & Ponvert, 336. Chepultepec, Storming of (painting), 706, 816. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, 1040, 1041, 1043. Chimney pieces from Italy, 215. Chipman, Norton P., Delegate from District of Columbia: Debates, 1107, 1116, 1117, 1126, 1127. “Cincinnatus leaving the plow,” 670. Circular Church, Philadelphia, Pa., 587. City of Washington, plan of, 10, 11, 14, 101. Clagett, Clifton, Representative from New Hamp- shire: Debates, 225. Claiborne, Thomas, Representative from Virginia: Debates, 82. Clark, Daniel, Senator from New Hampshire: De- bates, 753, 761. Clark, Edward, 11, 12, 366, 368, 369, 372, 376, 396, 402, 858, 859, 860, 861, 862, 864, 870, 872, 891, 893, 905, 907, 922, 924, 929, 930, 933, 942, 948, 949, 956, 970, 972, 973, 976, 981, 987, 1027, 1074, 1076, 1082, 1153, 1159, 1162, 1164, 1165, 1170, 1180, 1181, 1183, 1184, 1197, 1200, 1209, 1211, 1215, 1217, 1218, 1219, 1220, 1227, 1230, 1232, 1236, 1264, 1265, 1267, 1271, 1272. Clark, Horace F., Representative from New York: Debates, 709, 779. Clark, John B., Representative from Missouri: Debates, 728. Clarke, John II., Senator from Rhode Island, 445; Debates, 502, 521; Report by, 448. Clark, Joseph, 29. Clarke, M. St. Clair, 286. Clay, Clement C., Representative from Alabama: Debates, 326. Clay, Henry, 697; Representative from Kentucky: Debates, 1032, 1033; Secretary of State, 284, 285, 286, 287; Senator from Kentucky: De- bates, 319. Clay, James B., Representative from Kentucky: Debates, 728. Clemens, Jeremiah, Senator from Alabama: De- bates, 538. Clemens, Sherrard, Representative from Virginia: Debates, 700. Clements, Isaac, Representative from Illinois: Debates, 886. Clerk of Public Works, 119, 161. death of, in collapse of Senate floor, 147. Clerk of the House, 618. Clingman, Thomas R., Representative from North Carolina: Debates, 453, 477, 478, 490, 613, 644, 645, 670; Senator from North Carolina: Debates, 722, 762, 763. Clock, allegorical, 256, 262, 269, 274. Cluskey, C. B., 425, 430, 990, 1005. Clymer, Hiester, Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Amendment offered by, 921; De- bates, 897, 899, 909, 910, 921, 922, 927. Coal vaults, 884. Coats of arms of States, 691, 980. Cobb, F. H., 1166, 1170, 1180, 1181, 1209, 1211. Cobb, Howell, Representative from Georgia: De- bates, 631, 647. Cobb, Thomas W., Representative from Georgia, 220, 223, 224, 225, 228; Debates, 225. Cobb, Williamson R. W., Representative from Alabama: Debates, 460. Coburn, John, Representative from Indiana: De- bates, 887, 1134, 1138. Cochrane, Admiral, 171. Cochrane, John, Representative from New York: Debates, 728, 775, 776. Cockburn, Admiral, 171. Cocke, John, Representative from Tennessee: Debates, 249, 268, 281, 288, 1036; Motion by, 1035, 1036. Cockeysville, Md., quarries at, 11. Cockrell, Francis M., Senator from Missouri, 390, 391, 392; Debates, 370, 371, 951, 1173, 1174, 1231, 1236. Coit, Joshua, Representative from Connecticut: Debates, 61, 63. Cole, Cornelius, Senator from California: Debates, 874, 1098, 1099, 1100, 1107, 1146, 1147, 1149. Colfax, Schuyler, Representative from Indiana, 862; Bust of, 973. Collamer, Jacob, Senator from Vermont, 830, 832; Debates, 677, 678, 684, 714, 800. Colonnade, East, extension of, 437, 448; West, extension of, 437, 448. Columbian Institute, use of a room by, 263. Columbia, Territory of, 15. Columbus, events in history of, illustrated on bronze door, 817. figure of, proposed, 26. Combe, George, 1190. Commissary-General, Army, 789. Commissioner of Public Buildings, 189, 190, 193, 194, 195, 200, 204, 206, 207, 211, 212, 214, 215, 216, 217, 219, 220, 223, 224, 225, 227, 228, 229, 232, 234, 238, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 244, 247, 250, 251, 254, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259, 262, 265, 266, 267, 268, 279, 284, 294, 296, 297, 301, 312, 315, 317, 327, 328, 330, 331, 333, 336, 339, 342, 344, 356, 362, 368, 567, 568, 574, 577, 578, 579, 581, 582, 584, 623, 636, 762, 763, 764, 787, 788, 789, 790, 792, 793, 794, 796, 798, 812, 813, 814, 842, 1032, 1033, 1034, 1035, 1036, 1037, 1041, 1042, 1049, 1050, 1051, 1052, 1053, 1054, 1055, 1058, 1065, 1066, 1071, 1072, 1073, 1128, 1140, 1151, 1187, 1189. Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds, 12, 15, 29, 62, 96. 1290 INDEX Commissioners of Public Buildings and Grounds — Continued, abolished, 101. letters from, 14, 10, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 79, 85, 86, 89, 91, 94, 97, 101. letters to, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 22, 23, 24, 27, 28, 36, 76, 77, 82, 96. memorials of, 38, 79, 97. Commissioners of the City of Washington, 96. Commissioners of the District of Columbia, 1160. Commission in charge of improvements to Rep- resentatives’ Hall, 929. Commission on Accommodations for the Library of Congress, 1266. Commission to refurnish House Wing, 975, 978, 981. Committees on Public Buildings of House and Senate to confer on extensions, 438, 440. Committee Reports, see under Extensions, Grounds, and Old Building. Completion of Capitol announced, 1106. Comptroller of the Treasury, 482. Condict, Lewis, Representative from New Jersey, 194, 195, 196, 197, 264; Debates, 174; Reports by, 189, 1035; Resolution offered by, 1035. Conger, Omar D., Representative from Michigan: Debates, 867, 891, 892, 902, 905, 919, 922, 923, 924, 925, 926, 930, 931, 1255, 1256, 1257, 1258. Conkling, Roscoe, Representative from NewYork: Debates, 856, 857; Senator from New York: Debates, 873, 874, 875, 1085, 1147, 1150, 1168, 1174, 1175, 1203, 1206. Connolly, J. F., 742, 743. Conservatoire des Arts et Metiers, Paris, 898. Constitution, provision of, concerning Federal buildings at seat of government, 5. Contracts, abuses and frauds alleged in, 550, 551, 567, 569, 574, 575, 576, 577. Contracts for marble, see under Extensions. Cook, Daniel P., Representative from Illinois: Debates, 278. Cook, Orchard, Representative from Massachu- setts: Debates, 127. Cook, Philip, Representative from Georgia: De- bates, 909. Coombe, Griffith, 143, 227, 228. Cooper, Henry A., Representative from Wiscon- sin: Debates, 380. Cooper Institute, New York, 903. Cooper, James, Senator from Pennsylvania: De- bates, 505, 542, 543, 570, 571, 577. Cooper, William, Representative from New York: Debates, 61. Cooper & Hewitt, 629, 630. Corbett, Henry W., Senator from Oregon: De- bates, 874, 1088, 1095, 114s. Corner stone of Extensions, laying of, 448. of Old Building, laying of, 29. Corning E., & Co., 348. Corwin, Thomas, 347, 494. Costagini, Philip, 372. Cost of the Capitol, 11. Court of Claims, 1068, 1108. rooms asigned to, Senate wing, 710. Courts, James C., 979, 987. Covode, John, Representative from Pennsylva- nia: Debates, 804, 805. Cox, J. D., 1106. Cox, Samuel S., Representative from New York: Amendment offered by, 888; Debates, 882, 888, 889, 923. Coyle, Randolph, 1070, 1071, 1109. Crabb, Jeremiah, Representative from Maryland: Debates, 45, 48, 50, 51, 59, 61, 73. Craige, Burton, Representative from North Car- olina: Amendment offered by, 1053; De- bates, 607, 619, 622, 623, 624. 625, 636, 639, 1053; Resolution by, 607. Craig, Robert, Representative from Virginia: Report by, 1048. Craik, William, Representative from Maryland: Debates, 79, 82, 83. Cranch, W., 94. Crawford, Martin J., Representative from Georgia: Debates, 355, 695, 697, 698, 699, 767, 768. Crawford, Mrs. Thomas, 782. Crawford, Thomas, 613, 630, 653, 655, 668, 680, 702, 736, 737, 744, 747, 755, 770, 771, 774, 777, 778, 779, 782, 783, 785, 809, 810, 816, 825, 826, 840, 1015, 1020, 1023, 1025. Crawford & Hoffman, 1171. Credit Mobilier investigation, 883. Cropsey, Jasper F., 341. Crystal Palace, New York, 996. Culpeper, John, Representative from North Caro- lina: Debates, 155. Cummings, Amos J., Representative from New York: Debates, 380, 389. Cummings, Thomas S., 341. Cummins, Rev. G. D., 704. Cushman, Joshua, Representative from Maine: Debates, 259, 261. Curtis, Samuel R., Representative from Iowa: De- bates, 701, 776. Cuthbert, Alfred, Representative from Georgia: Debates, 1032. Cutts, Richard, Representative from Massachu- setts: Debates, 110, 114. D. Daggett, David, Senator from Connecticut: De- bates, 176. Dallas, Alexander J., 171, 187. Dalzell, John, Representative from Pennsylvania, 978: Debates, 379, 380, 381, 382, 386, 387, 388; 389, 390, 391, 392, 394, 395, 396; Reports by, 378, 391. Dalton, Tristram, 97, 101. Dana, Samuel W., Representative and Senator from Connecticut: Debates, 139, 176, 180. Daukes, S. W., 614, 615. Davis, David, Senator from Illinois, 943; Debates; 1164, 1165. Davis, Garrett, Senator from Kentucky: Debates, 1100. Davis, Henry G., Senator from West Virginia: Debates, 1209, 1220. Davis, Henry Winter, Representative from Mary- land: Debates, 699, 700, 784: Report by, 784. Davis, Jefferson, Secretary of War, 585, 587, 591, 594, 616, 618, 627, 631, 642, 645, 650, 651, 656, 657, 659, 663, 665, 704, 705, 790, 795, 797, 799, INDEX 1291 Davis, Jefferson, Secretary of War — Continued. 805, 806, 874, 997, 998, 999, 1002, 1003, 1004, 1005, 1007; Senator from Mississippi, 437, 445, 584; Amendments offered by, 681, 683, 722, 710, 752, 753, 766; Debates, 441, 442, 674, 675, 676, 677, 678, 679, 680, 681, 682, 683, 684, 687, 688, 689, 710, 715, 716, 717, 718, 719, 720, 723, 750, 752, 753, 754, 757, 758, 759, 763, 764; Report by, 446, 448. Davis, Reuben, Representative from Mississippi: Debates, 728. Davis, Shadrach, 194. Davis, Solomon, 219. Davis, Thomas T., Representative from New York: Debates, 858. Davis, W.R., & Co., 1171. Dawes, Henry L., Representative from Massachu- setts; Debates, 866, 868, 870, 871, 877, 883, 1103, 1127, 1130, 1131, 1132, 1133, 1134, 1137, 1140, 1141, 1142; Senator from Massachusetts: Bill re- ported by, 1172; Debates, 371, 942, 957, 1172, 1173, 1174, 1175, 1176, 1177, 1179. Dawson, John, Representative from Virginia: Debates, 104, 119, 170. Dawson, William C., Senator from Georgia: De- bates, 531. Dayton, Jonathan, Representative from New Jersey: Debates, 48, 50, 52, 54, 58. Dearborn, Henry, Representative from Massachu- setts: Debates, 55, 56, 59, 60. Dearborn, Henry A. S., Representative from Mas- sachusetts: Debates, 317. Debates, see under Old Building, Extensions, Dome, Grounds, Terraces; and Central East Front, Proposed Extension of. Decoration of the Capitol, concerning the, 889. Delano, Columbus, 1159. Dennis, John, Representative from Maryland: Debates, 101. Densley & Lisle, 89. Department buildings, referred to, 41. De Russy, Gen. G. A., 1026. Destruction of Capitol and other buildings by the British, 171, 172, 173. Development of building referred to, 1268, 1273, 1275. Dickerson, Mahlon, Senator from New Jersey: Report by, 262; Debates, 300, 301. Dickins, Asbury, 438. Dickinson, Daniel S., Senator from New York: Debates, 441, 442. Dickinson, Edward, Representative from Massa- chusetts: Debates, 621, 622, 623, 624, 625, 626. Dimensions of the Capitol, 11. District attorney of the United States, 1069, 1070, 1074, 1077, 1083, 1086, 1109, 1111, 1143. District of Columbia, 5, 6, 7, 9. 10, 11. Dobson, John, 96. Dobson, Mr., 33. Document Room, House of Representatives, 402, 403, 404, 407. Dodge, Augustus C., Senator from Iowa: Debates, 529, 531, 532, 533, 534, 544, 545, 548. Dodge, Grenville M., Representative from Iowa: Debates, 1028, 1029; Motion by, 1028, 1029. Dolph, J. N., Senator from Oregon: Debates, 1241, 1243. Dome, The: Apparent disproportionate height of, from one point of view, 1232. Appropriations for, 800, 993, 997, 998, 1006, 1007, 1009, 1010, 1012, 1023, 1024, 1025, 1028, 1029, 1030. Beauty of, referred to, 1273. Calculations and measurements respecting, 373. Cast-iron columns for, 994, 1005, 1008, 1009, 1011, 1012, 1016, 1019. Construction authorized, 993. Contractors reimbursed for damages occasioned by suspension of work on, 1030. Debates on, in House, 639, 640, 990, 993, 1004, 1010, 1028. Debates on, in Senate, 1005, 1013. Design for, 991, 993, 994, 999, 1000, 1008, 1014, 1015. description of, 994 et seq. modification of, 999,1000,1006,1009,1013,1014. Drawings and sketches of, 999, 1015. Estimated weight of, 1000, 1002, 1003, 1013, 1014, 1016, 1019. Estimate of cost of, 999, 1000, 1024. Expenditures on, 998, 1007, 1010, 1012, 1020, 1021, 1023, 1024, 1025, 1027. Finishing, 1029, 1030. Freedom, statue of, 697, 681, 685, 688, 802, 820, 994, 997, 1015, 1020, 1021, 1023, 1024, 1025, 1026, 1030, 1137. proposition to gild, 1030. raising, 1025, 1026. Insecurity of, apparent, 1264, 1269, 1271, 1277, 1280. Ironwork on, 800, 994, 996, 1005, 1006, 1007, 1008, 1009, 1011, 1012, 1014, 1015, 1016, 1019, 1020, 1021, 1022, 1023, 1024, 1025, 1026, 1027, 1030. Liberty, statue of, see Freedom, statue of. Lighting, 1025, 1027, 1028. Old Dome, see under Old Building. Overhanging eastern wall, 1264, 1269, 1271,1277, 1280. Plan for raising, 373. Progress reported, 1855, 993, 997. 1856, 998, 1005, 1006, 1008. 1857, 1009. 1858, 1011. 1859, 1012. 1860, 1013, 1019. 1861, 1020. 1862, 809, 1021, 1022, 1024. 1863, 1024. 1864, 1026. 1865, 1027, 1028. Proposition to complete, 804, 805, 806, 807, 808, 820, 821. Protection of, from the elements, 804, 805, 808, 813, 820, 821, 830. References to, 11, 362, 369, 372, 376, 639, 640, 641, 724, 755, 769, 790, 796, 800, 803, 820, 830, 1280. Stability of, demonstrated, 1014, 1115, 1116 et seq. questioned, 866, 868, 870, 1013, 1014 et seq. Strength of supporting walls, 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003, 1007, 1008, 1014, 1015, 1016 et seq. Suggestion of design for, 990, 1005, 1006. Supervision of, transferred from War Depart- ment to Interior Department, 790, 800, 803, 808, 813, 815, 821. 1292 INDEX. Dome, The— C ontinued. To complete and repair, 861. Work on, suspended, 1861, in consequence of civil war, 815, 1021, 1022. Dome, old, see under Old Building. Donations by Maryland and Virginia, 96, 184, 187, 188, 229, 230. Doorkeeper, House of Representatives, 402, 403, 404. Douglas, Stephen A., Senator from Illinois: Amendment offered by, 1060,1063; Debates, 527, 1058, 1060, 1062. Dunlop, Mr., 1040. Doolittle, James R., Senator from Wisconsin: De- bates, 720, 754, 756, 757, 760, 766. Doorways in the Capitol, number of, 13. Downing, Mr., 1187. Downing, A. J., 558. Drainage of the Capitol, 967, 970. Drake, Charles D., Senator from Missouri: Debates, 1099, 1100. Dumeste, J. A., 313, 315. Duncan, James H., Representative from Massa- chusetts: 559: Debates, 470, 478, 480, 481, 482. Dunlaps Spring, 314, 315. Dunnington, Captain, 427. Durand, A. B., 340. “ Dutch spittoons,” 1208. Duval, Willliam P., Representative from Ken- tucky: Debates, 181. Dwight, Henry W., Representative from Massa- chusetts: Debates, 293, 299. Dynamo-electric machines for Representatives’ Hall, 922, 923, 924, 925. E. Easby, William, 344, 636. Eastern Penitentiary, Philadelphia, Pa., 587. Eastlake, C. L., 734. Echoes, old Representatives' Hall, 406. Eddy, Samuel, Representative from Rhode Island, 264. Edie,John R., Representative from Pennsylvania: Debates, 726. Edmonds, F. W., 341. Edward I, of England, preservation of body of, 302. Edwards, Pierpoint, 20. Edmunds, George F., Senator from Vermont: Debates, 943, 944, 945, 951, 952, 953, 1088, 1149, 1202, 1220, 1221, 1242, 1244, 1245, 1246, 1247, 1249, 1250. Egg rolling on Easter Day, 1255. Electric call bells, 971, 979, 986. Electric-light plants, Capitol and Grounds, exten- sion of, 970, 971, 972, 973. Electrician of the Capitol, 924. Electrician of the House of Representatives, 922, 923. Elevators in the Capitol, number of, 13. Elgar, Joseph, 248, 249, 250, 251, 254, 255, 256, 257. 259, 262, 265, 266, 267, 279, 294, 296, 297, 301, 312, 315, 317, 325, 330, 331, 1036, 1037. Ellicott, Maj. Andrew, 16, 26. Eldredge, Charles A., Representative from Wis- consin: Debates, 888. Elkins, Stephen B., Senator from West Virginia, 390, 391, 392. Elliott, Charles L., 341. Elliott, John M., Representative from Kentucky: Debates, 646. Ely, William, Representative from Massachusetts: Debates, 118. Emerson, Ralph Waldo, 775. Emery, Matthew G., 575, 638, 810. Emory, John, 91. Engineer Corps, Army, 585. Engineer in charge of the Capitol Extension, 750, 752. See also Superintendent in charge of construction of Capitol Extension. Engineer in charge of enlargement of Capitol Grounds, 1166, 1170, 1180, 1181. Engineers, Chief of, United States Army, 1080, 1105, 1106, 1144. English, James E., Representative from Connecti- cut: Debates, 834. English school of painting, 734. Eppes, John W., Representative from Virginia: Debates, 139. Erechtheium, Athens, 1131. Esty, Alex. R., 1267. Eustis, William, Representative from Massachu- setts: Debates, 103, 104. Evans, Alexander, Representative from Mary- land: Debates, 453. Evans, George, Senator from Maine: Debates, 339. Evening Star, The, 1231. Everett, Edward, Representative from Massa- chusetts: 271; Debates, 277, 278, 279, 281,288, 289, 293, 294, 299, 300, 301, 318, 326, 1049. Ewbank, Thomas, 558, 559. Ewing, John, Representative from Indiana: De- bates, 326. Executive offices, referred to, 77. Extensions, The: Acoustics, notes on, 592. improvement of , in Halls of Congress, 834, 835. Advertisement inviting pitas for, 445. American marble, 777, 778, 779, 781. Appropriations for, 445, 550, 552, 553, 584, 585, 608, 616, 618, 627, 642, 659, 663, 665, 669, 670, 690, 702, 709, 736, 780, 785, 810, 811. 814, 822, 833, 838, 842, 854, 859, 862, 865, 869, 871, 872, 875, 884, 889, 890, 906, 907, 924, 929, 933, 938, 939, 9.54, 955, 970, 971, 974, 978, 987, 988, 1170. Appropriations for, suspended on account of condition of Treasury, 780. Architect of, see Architect of the Capitol Exten- sion. Architecture discussed, 692, 698, 868. Art works in, 613, 630, 637, 653, 654, 655, 671, 672, 674, 676 et seq., 683 et seq., 691 et seq., 696, 701, 702, 706, 716, 722, 729, 736, 744, 749, 755, 756, 770, 771, 774, 775, 776, 777, 778, 779, 780, 781, 784, 801, 826, 827, 854, 867, 875, 884, 888, 889, 907, 924, 929, 933, 938, 939, 973, 975, 976, 979. Authorized, September 30, 1850, 445. Bathrooms, removal of, House wing, 934 etseq., 937, 938. Bricklaying, 591, 592, 616, 629. Bricks, supply of, 591, 592, 611, 612, 615, 638. Brickwork, 661, 667. Bronze doors, 630, 654, 767, 778, 809, 810, 817, 825, 831, 840, 856, 857, 859, 865 et seq., 870. INDEX, 1293 Extensions, The— Continued. Building stone used in foundations, tests of, 559, 593. Capitals of marble columns, 654, 660. mutilated by visitors, 806. Chandeliers, House wing, 889. Changes in plans of, 594, 595, 613, 635, 650, 657, 658, 659, 664, 7(05, 790, 791, 795, 797, 799, 800. proposed by Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War, 592. Columns, marble, mutilated by visitors, 806, 816. Committee Reports on, House, 421, 424. Committee Reports on, Senate, 430, 446. Contract for marble columns, supplemental, 607, 608, 613. Contract system adopted, 449, 451, 638. Contracts, 698, 699, 700. frauds alleged in, 550, 651, 567, 569, 574, 575, 576, 677, 643, 645, 650. Corinthian capitals, 628. Corinthian columns, 654, 656, 660. Corner stone, laying of the, 448. Day’s work system, 638, 639. Debates on, in House, 438, 443, 444, 452, 454, 459, 460, 463, 468, 478, 493, 582, 607, 619, 631, 632, 633, 643, 645, 650, 664, 669, 670, 690, 709, 710, 725, 752, 766, 777, 780, 784, 803, 820, 821, 827, 830, 833, 838, 842, 855, 856, 860, 865, 875, 881, 885, 888, 890, 906, 925, 926, 929, 930, 933, 934. Debates on, in Senate, 441,442,461,496,505, 509, 515, 521, 550, 567, 569, 572, 583, 595, 608, 609, 618, 674, 684, 702, 710, 711, 722, 743, 749, 752, 757, 779, 795, 803, 822, 842, 850, 858, 872, 928, 937, 938, 939, 956. Defacement of, by visitors, 813, 816. Design and plans, description of, 464, 495. alteration of, 759. Design of, pronounced an “architectural mon- strosity,” 524,527. Drainage of, 968. Eastern porticoes of, 830, 831, 832, 833, 841. Electric lighting, House wing, 922, 923, 924. Senate wing, 939. Elevators, House wing, 377, 890, 904, 905, 926, 927, 928, 929, 930, 931, 932, 933, 955, 971. Senate wing, 884, 902, 907, 938, 939 et seq., 954. Engineer Corps, Army, 586, 591, 592, 594, 610, 615, 616, 617, 618, 620, 623, 627, 631, 642, 651, 656, 657, 659, 660, 665, 669, 702, 708, 736, 740, 743, 758, 763, 764, 766, 781, 784. Enlargement of doorways between House and Senate wings, 865 et seq., 870, 871, 872. Estimates of cost of, 437, 448, 467, 583, 656, 657. Expenditures on, 468, 552, 853, 591, 618, 643, 651, 652, 663, 669, 709, 783, 785, 786, 792, 793, 799, 800, 806, 810, 814, 820, 826. Exterior stairways of, 782. Foundations declared defective, 455, 460, 463, 469, 470, 471, 472, 473, 474, 475, 476, 477, 479, 480, 481, 484, 485, 486, 488, 491, 494, 506, 506, 523, 528, 574, 575, 578, 587. pronounced sound, 506, 507, 508, 525, 551, 552, 559, 585, 587, 592. Foundation stones, tests of, 559, 593. Frescoes, 670, 716. Furniture, 659, 670, 690, 691, 711, 722, 781, 974, 975, 978 et seq., 981, 985. Gas fixtures, 781. Extensions, The — Continued. Gas lighting, 668. “Gingerbread and tinsel,” 698. Granite, 638. Granite work, specifications for, 518. Heating apparatus, 662, Heating, 413, 666, 702, 842. Historical paintings, 677, 683, 745. House wing, boilers for, 955, 971. changes proposed, 934 et seq., 937, 938. electric-light plant for, 970. elevators for, 377, 890, 904, 905, 926, 927, 928, 929, 930, 931, 932, 933, 955. furniture, supervision of, 981. heating apparatus, 978, 987, 988, 989. heating, 1170. metal file cases, 974, 978, 981, 988. refurnishing, 974, 975, 978 et seq., 981, 985. ventilation of, 782, 973, 974, 980 et seq., 988, 989, 1170. Iron work, 629, 661, 667, 758. Marble, 660, 661, 663, 667, 737, 738, 739, 767, 783, 815, 818, 819, 822, 823, 831. advertisements for, 592. contracts for, 635, 743. for exterior, 740, 741, 742. for windows and doors, cost of, 652, 653. from Massachusetts, 707, 708. selected for walls, 450, 451. supply, 616, 617. tests of, 551, 554, 558, 586, 591, 636, 740, 743, 766, 777, 778, 779, 780, 781, 782, 810, 823, 831, 832, 833, 858, 859. for porticoes, 707, 708. supplemental contract for, 607, 608, 613. Marble work, 628, 838, 841, 859. exterior, bidders for, 658. specifications for, 519. Mechanics and workmen suffer from suspen- sion of work on, in 1851, 452, 454, 459, 461, 462, 468, 488, 489, 492, 493, 498, 522, 534, 541, 542, 544, 545, 546, 547, 548. Monolithic shafts, bids for, 737. Monolithic columns, 857, 858, 859. North wing, 437. completion of room No. 3 in, 643. completion of rooms Nos. 4 and 11 in, 656, 665. furniture for, 711 et seq. Painting of, 722, 729, 736, 824, 840. Paintings in, 662, 668, 670, 671, 674, 676, 677, 683, 685, 692, 693, 694, 696, 706, 716, 745, 752, 755, 756, 770, 771, 774, 777, 778, 779, 780, 781, 784, 976, 977, 978. Panels, decoration of, 677, 707. Pictures, 638. Plans and designs for, 408, 410, 412, 416, 417, 421, 422, 424, 428, 429, 431, 441, 443, 445, 700, 753, 790, 799, 833, 834, 835, 962. adopted by President Fillmore, 452. change of, in 1853, 594, 595, 613, 635, 650, 657, 658, 659, 664, 705. history of development of, 594, 613, 614, 635, 650, 664, 705. Senate Committee on Public Buildings au- thorized to invite, 443. advertisement by, inviting, 445. Porticoes, 740, 743, 782, 855, 859. Progress reported, 1851, 452, 464. 1294 INDEX. Extensions, The — C ontinued. Progress reported, 1852, 495, 516, 651, 652, 566. 1853, 585, 586,592. 1854, 616, 617. 1855, 627. 1856, 642, 650, 651, 656, 657, 660, 663. 1857, 665. 1858, 702. 1859, 736. 1860, 781. 1861, 785. 1862, 809, 813, 814, 815. 1863, 822, 826. 1864, 830, 838, 841. 1865, 841. 1866, 855. 1867, 859. Proposed in 1843, 408, 410, 412, 416. 417. in 1844, 421, 422, 424, 429. in 1850, 430, 438, 441, 442, 443, 444, 445, 446. Protection of, from exposure, 803, 804, 805, 808, 810, 811, 813, 820, 821, 827, 828, 829. Reference to, 11. Removal of Army bakery from, 811, 813. Representatives’ Hall, 586, 588, 589, 590, 616, 617, 627, 629, 661, 663, 666, 685, 688, 736. acoustics of, 726, 881, 882, 883, 885, 886, 887, 888, 908 et seq. alteration, enlargement, and refitting, 875, et seq., 881, et seq., 884, 922, 923, 924. arrangement of seats in, 709, 725, 726, 728, 738. changes in, proposed, 869. coats of arms of States in, 980. first occupied Dec. 16, 1857, 704. heating, 705, 890, et seq., 906, 907, 908, 922. lighting, 705, 884, 885, 886, 887, 888, 922, 923, 924. plans of, 432, 447. changes in, 594, 613, 614, 615, 635, 705. proposed removal of, 873, 911 et seq. proposed in 1843, 408, 410, 412. in 1844, 421, 422, 424, 429. ready for occupation, 669. removal of desks from, 709, 710, 725, 726, 728, 738, 781, 783, 877 et seq., 881 et seq., 908, et seq. ventilation of, 705, 738, 855, 869, 872, 878 et seq., 881, 884, 885, 886, 887, 888, 890, 891, 892 et seq., 906, 907 et seq., 922, 923, 924, 929, 935, 972, 973, 974, 980, 981, 982 et seq., 988, 989. suggestion as to, 1270. report on, 892, 907. Resolution of inquiry concerning, 631, 632, 633, 642, 645. Sanitation of, 842, 859. Sculpture in, 630, 653, 662, 668, 671, 674, 683, 685, 722, 729, 736, 747, 755, 770, 774, 777, 778, 779, 780, 781, 782, 784, 840. Senate Chamber, 590, 616, 617, 627, 629, 661, 663, 667, 675, 688, 698, 706, 736. changes in, proposed, 842 et seq., 850 et seq., 869. first occupied January 4, 1859, 736. furniture for, 711 et seq. heating of, 938, 939. plans of, 432, 447. changes in, 598, 613, 614, 635. pronounced “an utter failure,” 759. Extensions, The— Continued. Senate Chamber — Continued, proposed removal of, 749, 750, 758, 759, 760, 812, 873, 874, 911. ventilating apparatus for, 938, 955, 956. ventilation of, 759, 781, 842 et seq., 850 et seq., 855, 871, 872, 873, 874, 875, 884, 890, 901, 955, 956 et seq., 966, 967, 970. Senate wing, furniture for, 722. heating apparatus for, 890, 971, 972. plumbing in, 955, 956. proposed improvements in, 842 et seq., 850 et seq. refrigerating apparatus for, 971. steam-boilers for, 906, 907, 939, 955, 989. steel shelving in, 987, 989. ventilating apparatus for, 971, 972, 973. ventilation of, 966, 970. South wing, 437. corner stone of, laid, 448. furniture for, 659, 670, 690. interior decorations of, 670. Specifications for granite work in, 518. for marble work, 519. Statuary in, 613, 630, 637, 644, 645, 653, 680, 693, 752, 770, 774, 777, 778, 779, 780, 781, 782, 784, 824, 825, 826, 975, 976. Stoppage of work on, 1851, 452, 454, 459, 461,462, 468, 488, 489, 492, 493, 498, 522, 534, 541, 542, 544, 545, 546, 547, 548. resumption after, 468, 478, 493, 496, 505, 521, 550, 567, 569, 572, 582, 595. Stoppage of work on, 1861, incident to civil war, 785, 790, 798, 815. Superintendency of, transferred from Interior to War Department, 797, 799, 805. from War to Interior Department, 790, 795, 796, 800, 803, 808, 813, 815, 821. Used as a bakery for the Army, 787, 788, 789, 790. Used as quarters for troops, 785, 786. Ventilation of, 413, 614, 615, 666, 698, 702, 703, 704, 738, 795, 834, 835, 836, 837, 838, 840, 842 et seq., 850 et seq., 855, 858, 859, 869, 871, 872. Wings practically completed, 785. F. Faneuil Hall, Boston, Mass., 588. Faris, George W., Representative from Indiana: Debates, 379, 380. Farnsworth, John F., Representative from Illi- nois: Amendments offered by, 865, 870, 871; Debates, 856, 865, 866, 867, 868, 870, 871, 875, 876. Farrow, Samuel, Representative from South Carolina: Debates, 181, 184. Fenwick, Mr., 21. Fessenden, William . Pitt, Senator from Maine: 1146; Bills reported by, 1080, 1083; Debates, 622, 676, 753, 792, 793, 794, 795, 796, 802, 803, 851, 852, 858, 1055, 1056, 1064, 1065, 1078, 1080, 1083, 1084, 1085. Ficklin, Orlando B., Representative from Illinois: Debates, 455, 456, 457, 458, 459, 460, 478, 492. Fitch, Graham N., Representative from Indiana. Debates, 478, 492, 582, 583. INDEX. 1295 File cases, Clerk’s Office, House of Representa- tives, 924. Fillmore, M. P., 515. Fillmore, Millard, 448, 451, 452, 464, 515, 613, 635, 638, 767, 797, 799, 804. Findley, William, Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Debates, 45, 126. Finkelnburg, Gustavus A., Representative from Missouri: Debates, 1103, 1104, 1113, 1114. Fire-engine building, 1158. Fire engines, purchase of, 226. Fireplaces in the Capitol, number of, 13. Fish Commission, 1187. Fish, Hamilton, Senator from New York: De- bates, 568. Fisk, James, Representative from Vermont: De- bates, 181, 185. Fisher, Thomas J., 1077. Fitch, Graham N., Representative from Indiana: Amendment offered by, 582. Fitzpatrick, Benjamin, Senator from Alabama: Debates, 722. Flanagan, J. W., Senator from Texas: Debates, 1094. Florence, Thomas B., Representative from Penn- sylvania: Debates, 457, 470, 471, 488, 489, 622, 633, 641, 644, 645, 649, 752: Resolution by, 452. Floyd, John B., 669, 709, 740,743, 744, 784, 785, 790, 793, 799, 805, 806, 1010, 1012, 1020, 1021. Floyd, John G., Representative from New York: Debates, 491, 492. Folger, Charles J., 1228. Foot, Samuel A., Representative from Connecti- cut: Debates, 225. Foot, Solomon, Senator from Vermont, 806, 809, 830, 831, 832, 833, 1168; Debates, 790, 791, 792, 793, 794, 795, 798, 800, 801, 802, 803; Resolution by, 787. Footwalk from the Capitol, 258, 267. Foreign artists, employment of, 731. Foreign workmen, employment of, 14, 16,20, 21, 22. Forsyth, John, Representative from Georgia: Debates, 184, 277, 291; Senator from Georgia; Debates, 318. Forsyth, William, 1144. Fort, Greenbury L., Representative from Illinois: Debates, 900, 922, 923. Forum, Rome, 1131. Foster, Charles, Representative from Ohio: De- bates, 1170. Foster, Dwight, Representative from Massachu- setts: Debates, 57. Foster, Lafayette S., Senator from Connecticut: Debates, 725. Fountain by Hira.m Powers, 1050, 1051. Forward, Chauncey, Representative from Penn- sylvania: Report by, 1041. Fowler, Mr., 807. Fowler, Orin, Representative from Massachu- setts: Debates, 460. Francis, David R., 971. Frank, Augustus, Representative from New York: Debates, 362, 363, 364, 837. Franklin, Benjamin, statue of, 825, 826, 827. Franklin, Capt. W. B., 374, 740, 743, 750, 752, 753, 759, 781, 783, 1016, 1019, 1020, 1021. Franzoni, Giuseppe, 132. Frauds alleged in contracts, 550, 551, 567, 569, 574, 575, 576, 577. in construction of Extensions, 613, 645, 650. Freedom, statue of, 679, 681, 685, 688, 802, 820, 994, 997, 998, 1015, 1020, 1021, 1023, 1024, 1025, 1026, 1030, 1137. proposition to gild, 1030. raising, 1025, 1026. Freestone, Aquia, 115, 120. Freestone, island of, in Virginia, 80, 187, 229, 232. Frye, William P., Representative from Maine: Debates, 888; Senator from Maine: Debates, 1220. French, B. B., 356, 362, 787, 788, 789, 790, 812, 813, 814, 1052, 1071, 1072, 1073, 1077. French workmen, importation of, 21. Fromentin, Eligius, Senator from Louisiana: De- bates, 176. Fuller, Philo C., Representative from New York: Debates, 1049. Fuller, Thomas J. D., Representative from Maine: Debates, 459. Furnishing held to be an incident to erection of a building, 674. G. Gaines, John Wesley, Representative from Ten- nessee: Debates, 381, 384, 394. Gallatin, Albert, Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Debates, 44, 48, 51, 53, 61, 83; Secre- tary of Treasury, 99. Galway, James, 812. Garnett, Muscoe R. H., Representative from Virginia: Debates, 697, 698, 699. Gartrell, Lucius J., Representative from Georgia: Debates, 693, 725. Gaston, William, Representative from North Carolina: Debates, 183, 185. Gazette of the United States, Philadelphia, Pa., 15. Garfield, James A., Representative from Ohio: Amendments offered by, 884, 1161; Debates, 364, 365, 876, 877, 878, 881, 884, 885, 886, 1113, 1114, 1116, 1119, 1120, 1121, 1122, 1129, 1130, 1133, 1134, 1135, 1136, 1138, 1140, 1141, 1142, 1145, 1161; Motion by, 1085. Gentry, Meredith P., Representative from Ten- nessee: Debates, 488. Georgetown, 7, 10. German, Obadiah, Senator from New York: De- bates, 176. German workmen, importation of, 14, 16, 20. Gholson, Thomas, Representative from Virginia: Debates, 174. Gibson, Randall L., Senator from Louisiana: De- bates, 950. Giddings, Joshua R., Representative from Ohio: ' Debates, 460. Giejewus, Regis, 341. Giles, William B., Representative from Virginia: Debates, 44, 49, 52, 55, 56, 57, 59, 60, 61. Gillies, Theo. J., 348. Gilmer, John A., Representative from North Car- olina: Debates, 778. Girard College, Philadelphia, Pa., 587, 1002, 1019. Girard, Stephen, 1213. 1296 INDEX Glass, imported, 86, 121. Gliem, C. P., 988. Goddess of Freedom, see Freedom, statue of. Goldsborough, Charles W., Representative from Maryland: Debates, 173, 181. Goldsborough, Robert H., Senator from Maryland: Debates, 200. Goode, William A., Representative from Virginia: Debates, 1010. Goode, WilliamB., Representative from Virginia: Debates, 631, 639, 640, 649. Goodenow, Robert, Representative from Maine: Debates, 490. Goodhue, Jon., 341. Goodwyn, Peterson, Representative from Vir- ginia: Debates, 114. Gordon, William, Representative from New Hamp- shire: Debates, 82. Gott, Daniel, Representative from New York: Debates, 440. Government architect, 664. Graham, William A., 566. Grand Basin, Skinner’s, 1041, 1044, 1048. Grahamite, 1171. Granite quarries, 516. Green, Bernard R., 979. Green, James, Senator from Missouri: Debates, 779. Gregg, Andrew, Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Debates, 126; Senator from Pennsyl- vania: Debates, 144, 152, 153. Greenleaf, James, 32. Greenough, Horatio, 317, 318, 339. statue of Washington by, 317, 318, 325, 336, 338, 339, 1162. Greenwood, Alfred B., Representative from Ar- kansas: Debates, 633, 646, 647, 991, 1004, 1054; Resolution by, 1054. Grimes, James W., Senator from Iowa: Debates, 752, 753, 754, 795. Griswold, Roger, Representative from Connecti- cut: Report by, 95. Groat, W. H., 1171. Grosvenor, Charles H., Representative from Ohio, 390, 391, 392; Debates, 1282; Rule reported by, 1282. Grosvenor, Thomas P.. Representative from New York: Debates, 174, 181, 182, 184, 185. Grounds, The: Additional land acquired for, 1877, 1167, 1168, 1177. appraisement of additional land for, 1069, 1070, 1071, 1074, 1077 et seq., 1083, 1084, 1087, 1136, 1143, 1153, 1168, 1178. Approaches to plateau, 1102, 1105, 1106, 1145, 1159, 1160, 1161, 1172, 1176, 1179, 1182. Appropriations for, 1033, 1035, 1049, 1050, 1051, 1052, 1053, 1069, 1082, 1085, 1086, 1106, 1144, 1150, 1153, 1156, 1158, 1159, 1161, 1165, 1170, 1179, 1180, 1181, 1197, 1199. Area of, in 1861, 1071. in 1872, 1109. Asphalt pavement in, 1171, 1181. Beauty of, referred to, 848, 1095, 1098, 1099, 1212. Beech tree described by Senator Charles Sum- ner, 1154, 1155. Grounds, The — C ontinued. Bills to improve, extend, etc., 669, 1032, 1033, 1035, 1049, 1050, 1051, 1052, 1053, 1054, 1055, 1057, 1066, 1067, 1068, 1069, 1074, 1080, 1081, 1083, 1085, 1086, 1105, 1106, 1107, 1112, 1143, 1144, 1145, 1150, 1151, 1153, 1154, 1157, 1158, 1159, 1161, 1163, 1164, 1165, 1166, 1167, 1168, 1169, 1172, 1179. Bronze lamps in, 1229. Bronze vases in, 1208. Changes in, not to be made without estimates, 1223, 1225, 1227, 1228, 1242. Condemnation proceedings proposed for acqui- sition of land for, 1057, 1068, 1074, 1075, 1077 et seq., 1083, 1084, 1087, 1136, 1143. Continuing improvement of, 925. Coping, 1184, 1185. Criticism of appearance of, 1205, 1206. Curbing and flagging, 1101 et seq., 1106, 1144, 1145, 1162, 1163, 1164, 1166, 1167, 1169, 1170, 1171, 1172, 1181, 1184, 1191, 1229. Debates on, in House, 1032, 1033, 1035, 1049, 1053, 1054, 1067, 1080, 1081, 1101, 1105, 1107, 1112, 1129, 1145, 1151, 1155, 1161, 1164, 1165, 1169. Debates on, in Senate, 1036, 1037, 1052, 1054, 1055, 1056, 1057, 1066, 1067, 1074, 1080, 1083, 1086, 1088, 1105, 1107, 1142, 1145, 1154, 1156, 1157, 1163, 1165, 1167, 1168, 1172, 1177. Design of, 1191. Drainage of, 1229. Electric lighting of, 971, 1200. Engineer of, 1209, 1211 . Estimates for inclosing and improving, 1034, 1036, 1039, 1229. Extension of, 848, 1050, et seq., 1065, 1066, 1068, 1070 et seq., 1074, 1080, 1081, 1082, 1086, 1089, 1095 et seq., 1107 et seq., 1112 et seq., 1143, 1151, 1153, 1159, 1168. Fire-engine building in, 1158. Fountains in, 859, 1162, 1164, 1165, 1171, 1180, 1208. Graduating, 239, 241, 243, 244, 246, 247, 248, 250, 253, 254, 256, 258, 261, 267, 269, 273, 274, 277, 278, 279, 280, 282, 283, 288, 294, 295, 296, 297, 301, 317, 325, 328, 1052, 1053, 1054, 1058, 1066, 1074, 1075, 1076, 1080, 1082, 1084, 1086, 1105, 1106, 1144, 1145, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1157, 1159, 1160, 1161, 1162, 1165, 1166. Historical notes concerning, 1189. Improvement of, referred to, 895, 898. Inquiry as to extension of (1852), 1052, 1054. Lamps and gas pipes, 1052. Landscape architect, 12, 1153, 1157, 1158, 1162, 1163, 1170, 1182, 1183, 1184, 1197, 1199, 1215, 1216, 1217, 1218, 1219, 1220, 1225, 1227, 1229, 1230, 1231, 1232, 1237, 1250. Laying out, etc., 1154, 1155, 1157, 1159, 1161, 1166. Lights for, 1158, 1159, 1160, 1161, 1200. Open plaza, 1159, 1160, 1161, 1162, 1191. Paving, 1052, 1082, 1101 et seq., 1106, 1144, 1145, 1150, 1162, 1163, 1164, 1166, 1167, 1169, 1170, 1171, 1172, 1181, 1182, 1184, 1191, 1229, 1234, 1235. Plan for extension of, by Thomas U. Walter, 1072, 1073, 1074. modification of, 1231. INDEX. 1297 Grounds, The — C ontinued. Plan for improvement of, by Frederick Law Olmsted, 1159, 1160, 1161. Planting, 1144, 1154, 1155, 1159, 1162, 1171, 1185, 1197. Progress reported, 1827, 1037. 1829, 1038. 1836, 1050. 1837, 1051. 1855, 1053. 1857, 1065. 1867, 1082. 1874, 1159, 1160. 1875, 1161, 1162. 1876, 1163, 1164, 1166. 1877, 1170. 1880, 1180. 1881, 1181. 1882, 1184. 1884, 1197. Prohibition against railroads crossing, 1115,1128, 1138, 1140, 1144. Proposition to inclose and improve, 1815, 1032. References to, 448, 848, 873, 1095, 1098, 1099, 1212. Removal of asphaltic concrete, 1200. of fences from, 1052, 1053, 1066. of minor buildings from, 1160, 1161, 1162, 1182. of railroad tracks from, 1161. Roads in and to, 1052, 1144, 1150, 1159, 1161, 1165, 1166, 1168, 1171. Rustic terraces in, 1159, 1161, 1162. Seats in, 1180. Sewers for, 1158, 1159, 1160, 1161, 1162, 1166, 1171. Shrubbery in, 1173, 1181, 1182, 1186 et seq., 1234. Smith’s spring, purchase of, 1050, 1051. Space occupied by, 1181. Statue of George Washington in, by Horatio Greenough, 976. Stone steps criticised, 1209. Summer houses in, 1182, 1209, 1214. Survey of, 1154, 1155, 1156. Topographical survey of, 1154, 1155, 1156. Tree planting, etc., in, 1148, 1154, 1155, 1157, 1159, 1162, 1163, 1166, 1171, 1173, 1183, 1185, 1197. Trees in, 1051. appearance of, before remodeling, 1233. imported, 1171. index to, 1185 et seq. labels on, 1185. list of, 1193. removal of, 1146, 1147, 1154, 1157, 1159, 1171, 1218. transplanted, 1233. list of, 1198. Water supply for, 1038, 1040, 1041 et seq., 1045 et seq., 1048, 1049, 1050, 1051, 1161, 1162, 1163, 1181. Work on, 215, 218. Grow, Galusha A., Representative from Pennsyl- vania, 814; Debates, 769, 275. Growth of the country represented in the devel- opment of the Capitol, 1275, 1276. Gurney, Goldsworthy, 854. Guthrie, James, 646, 698, 767. Gwin, William W., Senator from California: De- bates, 497, 637, 538, 542, 546, 548. H. Rep. 6i6 82 H. Hadfield, George, 12, 36, 37, 38, 76, 78, 84, 108. Hale, Eugene, Representative from Maine: De- bates, 871,923, 1151, 1152: Senatorfrom Maine: Amendments offered by, 1222, 1223, 1255, 1259; Debates, 946, 947, 94s, 949, 9.50, 951, 957, 959, 960, 1222, 1223, 1225, 1226, 1239, 1241. 1242, 1243, 1214, 1245, 1246, 1247, 1248, 1249, 1250, 1251, 1252, 1253, 1254,1255,1257. Hale, John P., Senator from New Hampshire: Amendment by, 758; Debates, 526,535, 536, 537, 540, 542, 543, 549, 550, 721, 758, 759, 760, 761, 762, 795, 797, 798, 802, 812, 848, 1013; Resolu- tions by, 749, 1005. Hall, Edward, 645. Hall, J. P., 1200. Hall, Robert B., Representative from Massachu- setts: Debates, 633. Hall, Willard P., Representative from Missouri: Debates, 453, 489. Hallam, Mr., 735. Hallet, Stephen, 12, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 108. Hall of Representatives, see under Extensions and Old Building. Hamlin, Hannibal, Senator from Maine: Debates, 549, 761, 1013, 1149; Vice-President, 78g. Hamilton, James, jr. , Representative from South Carolina, 264. Hammond, James H., Senator from South Caro- lina: Debates, 759. Handy, Levin I., Representative from Delaware: Debates, 1282. Hanson, Alexander C. , Representative from Mary- land: Debates, 174. Hardin, Benjamin, Representative from Ken- tucky: Debates, 326. Hardin, Martin D., Representative from Ken- tucky: Debates, 1032. Harbough, Leonard, 19, 62, 96, 194. Harlan, James, Secretary of the Interior, 367, 841, 1028, 1264; Senator from Iowa: Debates, 1088, 1089, 1090; Resolution offered by, 1088, 1089. Harkness, John C., 551, 553. Harper, James, 341. Harper, Robert Goodloe, Representative from South Carolina: Debates, 44, 49, 82. Harris, B. W., Representative from Massachusetts: Debates, 896. Harris, Ira, Senator from New York: Debates, 851, 852. Harris, Isham G. , Representative from Tennessee: Debates, 459, 951, 952, 953. Harris, John T., Representative from Virginia: Amendment offered by, 1128; Debates, 911, 914, 1128, 1129, 1135, 1139, 1140. Harris, J. Morrison, Representative from Mary- land: Amendment offered by, 777, 778; De- bates, 770, 771, 773, 777. Harris, Thomas L., Representative from Illinois: Debates, 671, 672, 673. Harrison, Carter H., Representative from Illinois: Amendments offered by, 890, 904, 906; De- bates, 890, 891, 892, 893, 893, 895, 896, 897, 898, 900, 901, 903, 906. 1298 INDEX. Hart, William, 16. Hartnett, Mr., 199, 222. Hawk, Robert M. A., Representative from Illi- nois: Amendment offered by, 933; Debates, 929, 931, 932, 933, 937; Resolution offered by, 929. Hawkins, Joseph H., Representative from Ken- tucky: Debates, 181. Havens, Jonathan N., Representative from New York: Debates, B3, 56, 58, 69. Hayes, Mr., 496. Hayes, Philip C., Representative from Illinois: Debates, 912. Hayne, Robert Y., Senator from South Carolina: Debates, 319. Hawley, Joseph R., Representative from Con- necticut: Debates, 880, 881, 885; Senator from Connecticut: Debates, 965, 1216, 1220, 1221, 1222, 1225, 1226, 1227, 1253. Haynes, Charles E., Representative from Georgia: Debates, 301. Heating apparatus, 12. See also under Exten- sions and Old Building. Hemphill, Joseph, Representative from Pennsyl- vania, 264. Henderson, John B., Senator from Missouri: De- bates, 858. Hendricks, Thomas A., Representative from In- diana, 559. Henn, Bernhardt, Representative from Iowa: Debates, 463, 489, 619. Henry, J. B., private secretary to the President, 692. Henry, Prof. Joseph, 558, 585, 587, 592, 840, 842, 846, 891, 893, 907, 908, 920, 992. Hewitt, Abram S., Representative from New York, 922, 929; Debates, 897, 898, 899, 900, 901, 903, 910, 911, 921. Hibbard, Ellery A., Representative from New Hampshire: Debates, 8.82, 884, 1126, 1127, 1145. Hibbard, Harry, Representative from New Hamp- shire: Debates, 998. Hickman, John, Representative from Pennsylva- nia: Debates, 649. Highlanders, employment of, 14. Hilgartner & Sons, 397. Hill, Joshua, Representative from Georgia: De- bates, 768, 769. Hill, Mark L., Representative from Maine, 251. Hill, Ralph, Representative from Indiana: De- bates, 857. Hillhouse, James, Representative from Connecti- cut: Debates, 48, 50, 51, 52, 56, 58, 67. Hillman, Henry, 194. Hills, Wallace H., 979. Hitchcock, Ethan Allen, 401. Hoar, George F., Representative from Massachu- setts: Debates, 1113, 1125; Senator from Massachusetts: Debates, 953, 1241, 1243, 1244, 1250, 1251. Hoban, James, 12, 18, 22, 26, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 35, 36, 38, 84, 85, 87, 88, 92, 96, 97, 99. Hoffman, Michael, Representative from New York: Debates, 294. Holdsworth, Richard, 328, 330, 331. Holland, importation of workmen from, 20. Holland, James, Representative from North Caro- lina: Debates, 143. Holman, William S., Representative from Indi- ana: Amendments offered by, 895, 900, 904, 1128, 1165; Debates, 357, 820, 821, 822, 838, 883, 890, 893, 895, 900, 901, 902, 905, 906, 936, 937, 1081, 1121, 1122, 1126, 1127, 1128, 1129, 1140, 1151, 1152, 1155, 1156, 1165, 1166, 1169, 1170. Holmes, John, Senator from Maine: Debates, 1036. Holt, J., 785. Homestead land laws, 689, 690. Hone, Philip, 341. Hooper, Henry N., & Co., 337, 338. Hopkins, Albert J., Representative from Illinois: Debates, 379, 380. Hoskins, Col. J. A., 1026. House carpenters, employment of, 20. House of Commons, 726, 854, 878, 881, 909. House of Lords, 726, 891. House of Representatives, Chamber of. See under Extensions and Old Building. House of Representatives Office Building, 1272, 1277. Houses in Washington in 1801, number of, 98. Houston, George S., Representative from Ala- bama: Debates, 478, 582, 584, 619, 640, 643, 644, 645, 646, 648, 649, 990, 1004. Houston, John W., Representative from Dela- ware: Amendment by, 584; Debates, 438, 439, 440, 444; Report by, 424, 430. Houston, Samuel, Senator from Texas: Debates, 550, 557, 679, 680, 681, 685, 1060, 1061; Resolu- tion offered by, 550. Howard, Jacob M., Senator from Michigan: De- bates, 1077, 1078, 1095, 1096. Howard, John E., Senator from Maryland: De- bates, 100. Howard, Thomas, 194. Howard, William, Representative from Ohio: De- bates, 778. Howe, John W., Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Debates, 460. Howe, Timothy O., Senator from Wisconsin: De- bates, 1158. Huger, Benjamin, Representative from South Carolina: Debates, 110, 114. Hughes, George W., Representative from Mary- land: Debates, 776. Humphreys, Lieut. A. A., 409, 410, 412, 413, 416. Hunter, RobertM. T„ Senator from Virginia; 445; Debates, 349, 351, 353, 442, 461, 462, 505, 514, 515, 521, 522, 525, 529, 531, 535, 536, 539, 540, 547, 568, 569, 570, 572, 573, 575, 578, 581, 582, 583, 597, 674, 675, 676, 682, 684, 713, 724, 725, 1063, 1064, 1065; Motion by, 643; Reports by 342, 430, 505, 506; Resolution by, 443. I. Illinois, resolutions of constitutional convention of, on removal of capital, referred to, 1091. Importation of foreign workmen, 14, 16, 20, 21, 22 . Imported stone, 1170. trees, 1171. Incandescent, lamps, 13. Ingalls, John J., Senator from Kansas: Bill in- troduced by, 1030; Debates, 938, 946, 948, 949, 1165, 1221, 1230, 1231, 1234, 1235, 1252. INDEX. 1299 Ingersoll, Charles J., Representative from Penn- sylvania: Debates, 181. Ingle, Henry, 113. Ingham, Charles C., 341. Ingham, Samuel D., Representative from Penn- sylvania: Debates, 277, 1033. Inman, George, 335, 340. Institute of Technology, Boston, Mass., 972. Interior, Department of the, 585, 790, 795, 799, 800, 803, 804, 805, 806, 808, 815, 816, 821. Interior, Secretary of the, 344, 346, 347, 348, 366, 367, 376, 398, 401, 450, 461, 463, 464, 468, 477, 515, 516, 517, 518, 552, 558, 566, 585, 743, 786, 792, 793, 794, 795, 805, 808, 809, 811, 813, 814, 820, 826, 830, 833, 841, 842, 854, 858, 862, 863, 907 , 971, 972, 1022, 1023, 1024, 1025, 1028, 1054, 1057, 1060, 1066, 1068, 1071 et seq., 1080, 1082, 1083, 1084, 1086, 1087, 1106, 1113, 1136, 1143, 1144, 1145, 1150, 1151, 1152, 1153, 1159, 1161, 1172, 1177, 1178, 1200, 1203, 1230, 1237, 1260, 1262, 1263, 1264, 1265, 1266, 1271. Inscription on plate deposited in corner stone, Old Building, 29. Iowa, resolutions of the general assembly of, 1089. Iron, structural, introduced in reconstructing Library Room, 345, 347, 348. Ironwork, Library Room, bidders for, 348. Israel African Methodist Episcopal Church, 1150. Italian artists employed, 797. Italian marble, 660, 707, 741, 783, 819, 823, 628. Italian painters employed, 691. Italian sculptors, 164, 169, 261, 266. Italy, marble capitals from, 215, 218. chimney-pieces from, 215. Iverson, Alfred, Senator from Georgia: Debates, 682, 683, 719, 754, 1006; Resolution offered by, 1005. Ittner, Anthony, Representative from Missouri: Debates, _914, 915, 920, 923. J- Jackson, Gen. Andrew, 1190. Jackson, John G., Representative from Virginia: Debates, 126, 127, 128, 155, 1032. Jacobs, Cornelius, 551, 553. James, Charles T., Senator from Rhode Island: Debates, 599, 600, 601, 602, 604, 605. Janes, Fowler, Kirtland & Co., 1030. Jarvis, Leonard, Representative from Maine: De- bates, 317; Report by, 319. Jefferson, Thomas, 104, 111, 115, 119, 124, 131, 145, 146, 173, 436, 1039; Letters from, 14, 16, 17, 20, 23, 26, 28, 96, 145, 173; Letters to, 16, 17, 97, 103, 104, 157; Messages of, 100, 103; Statue of, 825, 826, 827. Jeffris Company, 985. Jenckes, Thomas A., Representative from Rhode Island: Debates, 868, 869. Jewett, Luther, Representative from Vermont: Debates, 186. Johnson, Andrew, Representative from Ten- nessee: Debates, 458, 489. Senator from Tennessee: Amendment offered by, 723; Debates, 684, 685, 686, 687, 688, 689, 690, 713, 719, 720, 721, 722, 723, 724, 760. Johnson, James, Representative from Virginia; Debates, 225. Johnson, Prof. Walter R., 551, 559, 566, 1001, 1019. Johnson, Reverdy, Senator from Maryland: De- bates, 846, 1055, 1078, 1079. Johnson, Richard M., Representative from Ken- tucky. Debates, 173, 326; Report by, 173. Senator from Kentucky: Debates, 298. Johnson, Robert W., Senator from Arkansas: De- bates, 595, 596, 597, 604, 605, 606, 714, 720, 761, 762, 765, 766; Motion by, 595. Johnson, Thomas, 14, 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32. Johnson, William Cost, Representative from Maryland: Debates, 336. Jones, Alfred, 341. Jones, Charles, Senator from Florida, 1226. Jones, Frank, Representative from New Hamp- shire, 922, 923. Jones, George W., Representative from Tennes- see: Debates, 444, 454, 463, 645, 701, 728, 1053, 1054. Jones, James C., Senator from Tennessee: Resolu- tion offered by, 595. Jones, J. Glancy, Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Debates, 672, 674, 690, 691, 692, 693, 700, 701, 1010. Jones, John W., Representative from Virginia, 408. Jones, T. A., 938. Judiciary building, referred to, 41. K. Kalbfleisch, Martin, Representative from New York: Debates, 837. Kasson, John A., Representative from Iowa: Debates, 364, 856, 857, 1166. Kearney, John, 91. Kearney, Lieut. Col. James, 506, 508, 509, 525. Keitt, L. M., Representative from South Carolina: Debates, 611, 616, 624, 633, 639, 640, 664, 990; Report by, 729. Kellogg, Stephen W., Representative from Con- necticut: Debates, 1128, 1137. Kenna, J. E., Senator from West Virginia: De- bates, 951, 952. Kennedy, Anthony, Senator from Maryland: Debates, 762, 763. Kensett, John F., 749, 755, 773. Kent, Joseph, Representative from Maryland, 264: Debates, 174, 1036. Kernan, Francis, Representative from New York: Amendment offered by, 827, 830; Debates, 827, 828, 829. Kerr, Joseph, Senator from Ohio: Debates, 176. Kerr, Michael C., Representative from Indiana: Debates, 878, 879, 880. Kelsey, William H., Representative from New York: Debates, 728, 1102, 1104. Key, Philip B., 32; Representative from Mary- land: Debates, 161. King, John B. & Co., 348. King, Preston, Senator from New York: Debates, 753. King, Rufus H., Representative from New York: Debates, 649. 1300 INDEX. King, Rufus, Senator from New York: Debates, 1S9. King, William R., Senator from Alabama: De- bates, 339. Kitchell, Aaron, Representative from New Jersey: Debates, 47. Klotz, Robert, Representative from Pennsylva- nia: Amendment offered by, 925, 926; De- bates, 925, 926, 927, 928. Knowles, William, 470. Kremer, George, Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Debates, 260. Kunkel, Jacob M., Representative from Mary- land: Debates, 767. L. Labels on trees, 1185. Labor, wages of, from 1793 to 1818, 232, 233. 1818 and 1820, 240. 1821, 247. Laborers employed, 33. Laborers, importation of, 16. Lacock, Abner, Senator from Pennsylvania: De- bates, 176, 180. Lamar, L. Q. C., 1237, 1260. Lambdin, James R., 749, 755, 773. Lane, Samuel, 190, 193, 194, 195, 198, 200, 204, 206, 207, 211, 212, 214, 215, 217, 219, 220, 221, 223, 224, 227, 228, 229, 232, 234, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 244, 247, 267, 1034. Landers, Franklin, Representative from Indiana: Debates, 891. Landscape architect, 12, 1153, 1157, 1158, 1162,1163, 1170, 1182, 1183, 1184, 1197, 1199, 1215, 1216, 1217, 1218, 1219, 1220, 1225, 1227, 1229, 1230, 1231, 1232, 1237, 1250. Lathrop, R. H., 348. Larabee, Charles H., Representative from Wis- consin: Report by, 743. Latrobe, Benjamin Henry, 12, 104, 107, 110, 111, 114, 115, 119, 120, 126, 129, 131, 142, 145, 146, 151, 154, 155, 156, 157, 160, 162, 163, 167, 169, 185, 190, 191, 193, 194, 196,197, 198, 199, 210, 220, 221, 222, 374, 436. Latrobe, Henry I., 161. Law Library Room, see under Old Building. Law Library, 757, 763, 764, 765. Law, Mr., 16. Leavenworth, Elias Warren, Representative from New York: Amendment offered by, 904; Debates, 890, 902, 904, 905, 906. Leckie, Robert, 199, 228, 1041. Lee, Mass., marble from, 11, 819, 823, 825. marble quarries at, 740, 741, 742. Lee, Capt. Thomas J., 506,508,509,525. Lee, — , 1037. Lee, Richard B.,186. L’Enfant, Maj. Peter Charles, 101. Lenox, Mr., 89. Lenthall, , death by collapse of Senate floor, Old Building, 147. Leonard, Stephen B., Representative from New Y'ork: Report by, 336. Letcher, John, Representative from Virginia: Debates, 639, 640, 641, 673, 691, 693, 767, 1010; Report by, 727. Leutze, E., 810, 816. Levant marble, 819. Lewis, Joseph, jr., Representative from Virginia: Debates 126, 127, 128, 138, 155, 161, 165, 174, 180, 181, 184, 185, 186. Liberty cap, correspondence concerning, 997. Liberty, Goddess of, see Freedom, statue of. Liberty’s helmet, 998. Library Room, 12. See also under Old Building. Library section, remodeling, 377, 378, 379,390,391, 392, 396, 398, 399, 401, 402, 404, 406. See also under Old Building. Librarian of Congress, 373, 377, 378, 379. Library of Congress, 852, 854, 911, 1108. building for, referred to, 1258, 1259. report of Commission on new, 1266. Library, Joint Committee on the, 755, 771, 772, 854, 875, 884, 888, 889, 907, 924, 929, 933, 938, 939. to have supervision of selection of art works, 671, 674, 676, 683, 691, 701, 702, 706. Lighting Capitol and Grounds, 13, 924, 925, 939. Lincoln, Abraham, 791. Lincoln, Levi, Representative from Massachu- setts, 337. Little, John S., Representative from Arkansas: Debates, 1279. Little, Peter, Representative from Maryland: Debates, 299. Livermore, Arthur, Representative from New Hampshire: Debates, 225. Livingston, Edward, Representative from New York: Debates, 82. Livingston, Leonidas F., Representative from Georgia, 391. Lloyd, James, Senator from Massachusetts: De- bates, 149, 153, 276. Lloyd, James T., Representative from Missouri: Debates, 384. Loan asked for by the Commissioners, 38. Loan authorized for restoration of public build- ings destroyed in 1814, 185. Loan recommended by House Committee, 40, 62. Loan by the Bank of Columbia, 96, 223. Loan, act authorizing, 75. act supplementary to act authorizing, 83. debate on in the House, 43, 45, 47, 49, 53, 57, 63. proceedings in the Senate, 74, 75. Loan from bank, 223. from State of Maryland, 98, 99, 100, 102, 103, 150. payment of, referred to, 100, 102, 103. recommended by the President, 38. references to, 33, 36, 100, 102, 103, 125, .126. Location of Capitol, etc., 24, 25. Logan, John A., Senator from Illinois: Debates, 873. Loring, G. B., Representative from Massachu- setts: Debates, 910, 912, 913, 914, 915, 922,923. Lots, sale of city, 39, 41, 43, 96, 97, 100, 102, 103, 150, 187, 188, 229, 232. Love, John, Representative from Virginia: De- bates, 161. Lovejoy, Owen, Representative from Illinois: De- bates, 670. Loud, Eugene F., Representative from California: Debates, 1280, 1281. Lowndes, William, Representative from South Carolina: Debates, 173. Lukie, Mr., 222. INDEX. 1301 Lyman, William, Representative from Massa- [ chusetts: Debates, 50. Lyon, F. B., 402, 403, 404. Lyon, Matthew, Representative from Kentucky: Debates, 127, 155, 161. M. Machen, Thomas, 143. Macomb, Capt. J. N., 785. Macon, Nathaniel, Representative from North Carolina: Debates, 45, 127, 155, 165, 166, 184; Senator from North Carolina: Debates, 301, 1036. Maddox, John W., Representative from Georgia: Debates, 381. Maher, James, 1190. Mahon, Right Hon. Viscount, 736. Mahone, William, Senator from Virginia: Amend- ment offered by, 1030,1031; Debates, 942, 1030, 1031, 1247, 12.54. Madison, James, President, 162, 163, 166, 169, 171, 172, 185, 186, 746; Messages of, 162, 163, 166, 169, 186; Proclamation of, 171; Representa- tive from Virginia: Debates, 48. Malarial poison, 1183, 1184. Mall, the, 1186. Mallary, Rollin C., Representative from Vermont: Debates, 278, 1036. Mallory, Robert, Representative from Kentucky: Debates, 358, 359, 838. Mallory, Stephen R., Senator from Florida: Debates, 713, 762. Mangum, Willie P., Senator from North Carolina: Debates, 499, 502, 503, 504, 529, 531, 537. Mapes, James J., 341. Maps of Federal City, 182. Marble, 222, 635, 707, 708. Marble columns, 215, 220, 221, 607, 608, 613. Marble from the Potomac, 23, Marble quarries, 191, 204, 516, 558. Marble selected for walls of Extensions, 450, 451. Marshall, Edward C., Representative from Cali- fornia: Debates, 454. Marshall, Humphrey, Representative from Ken- tucky: Amendments offered by, 672, 673, 701; Debates, 632, 671, 672, 673, 695, 696; Re- port by, 729. Marvin, Dudley, Representative from New York: Debates, 299. Maryland, cession of district 10 miles square by, 5, 7, 10. President's message concerning, 7, 10. President’s proclamations concerning, 7, 9. Maryland, donation by, 96, 150, 184, 187, 188, 229, 230. Maryland, loan from, 98, 99, 100, 102, 103, 125, 126, 150. Maryland marble, 628, 660, 818, 819, 823. Maryland marble quarries, 781. Maryland side of Potomac, public buildings to be on, 9. Mason, James M., Senator from Virginia : Amend- ment offered by, 721; Debates, 497, 690, 711, 712, 713, 714, 715, 716, 717, 718, 721, 725, 750, 764. Mason, Jeremiah, Senator from New Hampshire: Debates, 176. Mason, John C., Representative from Kentucky Amendment offered by, 490, 491, 492. Mason, Lieut. Col. J. L., 506, 508, 526. Mason, Mr., 21. Masons, importation of, 16, 22. employment of, 21. memorial of, 30. Massachusetts marble, 667, 707, 708, 738, 739, 740, 742, 819, 823, 825. Masters, Josiah, Representative from New York: Debates, 126. Materials, prices of, from 1793 to 1818, 232, 233. 1818 and 1820, 240. 1821, 247. Mausoleum for remains of Washington, referred to, 317. Maynard, Horace, Representative from Tennes- see: Amendments offered by, 693, 784; De- bates, 693, 694, 777, 784, 820, 856, 857, 871, 881, 882, 885, 886, 888, 889, 1114, 1115, 1122, 1127, 1128, 1136; Resolution by, 729. Mayor of Washington, D. C., 1105. McArthur, Duncan, Representative from Ohio: Debates, 260. McCleary, James T., Representative from Minne- sota: Debates, 381. McClellan, Abraham, Representative from Ten- nessee: Debates, 336. McClellan, George B., Representative from New York: Debates. 384. McClellan, John, 1021, 1023. McDonald, Joseph E., Senator from Indiana: De- bates, 1208. McDowell, Gen. Irwin, 789. McDuffie, George, Representative from South Carolina: Report by, 268. Mclntire, , 16, 17. McKean, Thomas V., 618. McKeon, John, Representative from New York: Report by, 335. McKim, Alexander, Representative from Mary- land: Debates, 181,185. McKnight, Robert, Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Amendment offered by, 820; De- bates, 806, 807, 820. McLanahan, J., Representative from Pennsylva- nia: Debates, 478. McLane, Louis, Representative from Delaware: Debates, 269. McLane, Robert M., Representative from Mary- land: Debates, 440. McLean, William, Representative from Ohio; De- bates, 299. McMillan, S J. R., Senator from Minnesota: De- bates', 1208. McMillin, Benton, Representative from Tennes- see: Debates, 926, 927, 932. McMullin, Fayette, Representative from Virgin- ia: Debates, 460, 478, 492. 647, 648, 649. McNair, John, Representative from Pennsylva- nia, 559, 1001; Debates, 459, 460, 463, 469,470, 471, 472, 473, 475, 476, 477, 478, 480, 485, 486, 487, 490, 493, 494, 495, 496, 499; Resolution by, 459. McPherson, Edward, Representative from Penn- sylvania: Debates, 803, 804, 805, 807. McRae, John J., Representative from Mississippi: Debates, 728. 1302 INDEX, Meaeham, James, Representative from Vermont: Debates, 459. Meads, S., 143. Mechanics and laborers, importation of, 14, 16, 20, 21 , 22 . Mechanics and workmen suffer from stoppage of work on Extensions in 1851, 452, 454, 459, 461, 462, 468, 488, 489, 492, 493, 498, 522, 534, 541, 542, 544, 545, 546, 547, 548. Mechanics and workmen, employment of, 14, 16, 20 , 21 , 22 . Medal offered for plan of Capitol, 15. Meigs, Capt. Montgomery C., 585, 586, 587, 591, 592, 594, 602, 610, 611, 613, 614, 615, 616, 617, 618, 627, 631, 634, 635, 636, 638, 639, 641, 642, 651, 656, 657, 659, 660, 665, 609, 673, 692, 695, 698, 699, 702, 705, 708, 714, 726, 727, 736, 740, 741, 742, 753, 754, 785, 786, 991, 992, 993, 997, 999, 1000, 1002, 1004, 1005, 1006, 1007, 1009, 1010, 1011, 1012, 1019; General, 12, 373, 376, 791, 792, 793, 794, 796, 797, 798, 802, 805, 806, 807, 820, 821. Meigs, Henry, Representative from New York: Report by, 230, Melodeon, The, Boston, Mass., 588. Memorial of American artists, 729, 733. of Commissioners of the Public Buildiings, 38, 79, 97. of Masons, 30. Mercer, Charles F., Representative from Virginia: Debates, 278, 290, 294, 299, 300, 326, 333, 1050. Meriwether, David, Representative from Georgia: Debates, 104; Senator from Kentucky, 550. Merriam, Clinton L., Representative from New York: Debates, 887. Merrick & Sons, 1019. Messages of Presidents of the United States, 7, 10, 11, 38, 79, 100, 103, 104, 111, 115, 119, 124, 131, 146, 162, 163, 166, 169, 172, 186, 199, 200, 206, 214, 215, 234, 241, 250, 256, 265, 279, 294, 452, 515. Metal file cases, House wing, 974, 978, 981. Metropolitan Hall, New York, 587. Metropolitan Railroad Company, 1073, 1075, 1076, 1084, 1087, 1144. Miasmatic poison, 1183. Miles, William Porcher, Representative from South Carolina: Debates, 709, 725, 726, 728, 729; Report by, 727; Resolutions offered by, 709, 728. Miller, Morris S., Representative from New York: Debates, 173. Miller, Stephen D., Senator from South Carolina: Debates, 319. Miller & Coates, 739. Mills, Clark, 776, 1023, 1025. Mills, Robert, 304, 307, 316, 319, 320, 324, 328, 334, 335, 338, 366, 430, 431, 446, 448, 1045, 1047, 1051. memorial of, 431, 437. Miner, Charles, Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Debates, 280, 281. Minton, the Messrs., 739. Mitchell, James C., Representative from Tennes- see: Debates, 294, 300. Mitchill, Samuel L., Representative from New Y'ork: Debates, 103, 104. Monroe, James, 198, 199, 200, £06, 214, 215, 220, 222, 223, 234, 241, 250, 256, 265. Monument, the Washington, 499. Moody, William H., Representative from Massa- chusetts: Debates, 381, 382, 383, 389 Moore, Jesse H., Representative from Illinois: Debates, 1121, 1122, 1130, 1135. Moore, Henry D., Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Debates, 460, 491. Morgan, Edwin B., Representative from New York: Debates, 670, 696, 726. Morgan, George W., Representative from Ohio: Debates, 1131, 1137. Morgan & Rhinehart, 1021, 1023. Morin, General, 854, 898. Morrill, Justin S., Representative from Vermont: Amendment offered by, 837; Debates, 359, 365, 834, 835, 836; Resolution by, 356; Sena- tor from Vermont : Amendments offered by, 872, 1107, 1112, 1150, 1177, 1203; Bills intro- duced by, 1086, 1088, 1105, 1107, 1154, 1163, 1167, 1228, 1230; Debates, 369, 370, 371, 872, 873, 874, 875, 938, 940, 941, 942, 943, 944, 945, 946, 947, 948, 949, 950, 1086, 1087, 1088, 1090, 1091, 1092, 1096, 1107, 1142, 1146, 1148, 1149, 1154, 1155, 1456, 1157, 1158, 1163, 1164, 1165, 1168, 1174, 1175, 1176, 1177, 1178, 1179, 1201, 1202, 1203, 1204, 1205, 1207, 1208, 1209, 1212, 1213, 1214, 1215, 1216, 1217, 1219, 1220, 1221, 1222, 1230, 1231, 1235, 1236, 1242, 1244, 1254; Motion made by, 938. Morrill, Lott M., Senator from Maine: Debates, 1158. Morris, Edward Joy, Representative from Penn- sylvania: Report by, 727, 729. Morris, George P., 341. Morris, Greenleaf & Nicholson, 98. Morris & Greenleaf, 86. Morris, James R., Representative from Ohio: Debates, 829. Morris, Thomas, Representative from New Y'ork: Debates, 104. Morse, Samuel B. F., 340. Morton, John L., 341. Morton, Oliver P., Senator from Indiana: Debates, 1100, 1203. Moses, W. B., & Sons, 985. Motors in the Capitol, number of, 13. Muhlenberg, Frederick Augustus Conrad, Repre- sentativefromPennsylvania: Debates, 47, 53. Mullet, J. B., 923. Munroe, Charles E., 376. Munroe, Thomas, 96, 99, 103, 124, 141, 145, 150, 167, 173, 189. Murray, William Vans, Representative from Mary- land: Debates, 44, 49, 60, 51, 53, 59, 60, 61, 69, 71. Music Hall, Boston, Mass., 588. N. Nason & Dodge, 666. National Academy of Design, 341. National Board of Health, 1183. National Intelligencer, The, 615. advertisement in, inviting plans for Extensions, 445. National University, 1033. “Naval Monument,” 1049, 1178, 1179, 1203, 1204, 1208, 1235, 1236. Navy, Secretary of the, 338, 566, 1137. INDEX. 1303 Neal, Henry S., Representative from Ohio: De- bates, 936, 937. Negro laborers, 22. Nelson, Jeremiah, Representative from Massa- chusetts, 255: Debates, 1032, 1036. Nelson, Roger, Representative from Maryland: Debates, 114, 155. Nelson, Thomas M., Representative from Virginia: Debates, 1033. Newcomb, Carman A., Representative from Mis- souri: Debates, 862. Newlands, Francis G., Representative from Ne- vada: Debates, 385, 394. New York, battle ship, authorization of comple- tion of, 1281. Nicholas, John, Representative from Virginia: Debates, 45, 48, 56, 58, 59, 66, 82. Nicholson, Joseph H., Representative from Mary- land: Report by, 100. Niblack, William E., Representative from Indi- ana: Debates, 1152. Niblo’s Theater, New York, 587. Nineveh, 729. Noble, John W., 1262, 1263, 1271. Noland, W., 327, 328, 330, 331, 833, 336, 1051, 1052. O. Occupation of Capitol by troops, 812, 813. Office building for House of Representatives, 1272, 1277. Old Building, The: Alterations in plans after construction was begun, 31, 35, 37, 108, 109, 189, 336. „ acts authorizing, 104, 189. Announced complete, 301. Appropriations for, 104, 111, 115, 119, 125, 128, 129, 144, 155, 156, 161, 169, 170, 185, 198, 200, 206, 213, 230, 231, 233, 239, 241, 246, 248, 250, 256, 261, 267, 268, 279, 294, 301, 325, 326, 329, 331, 335, 336, 339, 341, 344, 352, 356, 361, 366, 367, 368, 369, 372, 376, 396, 404. for restoration of, after burning in 1814, 185. Area wall and terrace, Western front, 271, 273, 275, 276, 277, 278, 282, 293, 294, 295, 296, 297, 299, 300. Art works for, 975, 994, 1027. Bricks, 33. to be used for walls, 15, discarded for outer walls, 29. Burning of, by the British, 171, 172, 173. Capitals, marble, 215, 218. Center building, 152, , 186, 205, 206, , 207, 208, 211, 212, 213, 214, 216, 217, 218, 224, 226, 229, 231, 233, 234, 235, 237, 238, 239, 241, 242, 243, 244, 246, 247, 248, 249, 250, 251, 253, 254, 255, 256, 258, 261, 262, 264, 265, 266, 267, 311, 361, 368, 374, 376. distribution of rooms in, 263, 264. enlargement proposed in 1844 for a Repre- sentatives’ Hall, 421, 422, 424, 429. fireproofing, 377, 402, 405, 406. heating, 710. new committee rooms in, 401, 402. new roof on, 369, 402, 405, 980. reconstructing roof, 402, 405. remodeling, 377, 378, 379, 390, 391, 392, 396, 398, 399, 401, 402, 404, 406. Old Building, The— C ontinued. Chimney-pieces, 215. Committee Reports on, House, 80, 95, 100, 106, 173, 174, 189, 202, 205, 210, 216, 225, 230, 235, 237, 242, 246, 247, 251, 252, 253, 254, 258, 261, 264, 266, 268, 270, 271, 282, 379. concerning the public buildings, etc., 95, 100. on loan to Federal City, 40, 62, 100. recommending first appropriation for com- pleting the public buildings, 80. Committee Reports on, Senate, 149, 153, 213, 262, 342. Committee rooms, Old Library section, 401, 402. Completion of, 272, 282. Contractors for stone work discharged, 35. Cornerstone laying, 29. Covered way between North and South wings, 99. Debates on, in House, 43, 45, 47, 49, 53, 57, 63, 110, 118, 124, 126, 128, 138, 143, 144, 161, 165, 168, 170, 174, 180, 181, 184, 225, 249, 259, 269, 280, 288, 299, 300, 301, 317, 318, 326, 355, 356, 357, 362, 378, 390, 391, 392. on appropriation for completing the public buildings (1798), 82, 83. Debates on, in Senate, 110, 111, 128, 143, 144, 149, 152, 154, 160, 161, 176, 276, 298, 318, 339, 349, 352, 369, 372, 390, 391. Decorations, 988. Destruction of, by the British, 171, 172, 173. Dimensions of, 11. Dome, 198, 201, 221, 243, 244, 245, 249, 250, 251, 253, 257, 279, 327, 329, 335, 447, 724. enlarging, 437. removal of, 638, 990, 993, 1003, 1005, 1006, 1008, 1009, 1015. Donations from Maryland and Virginia for, 150. Drainage of, 967, 969, 970. Drawings and plans for Capitol, 15, 85, 108, 151. Eastern portico, 27, 28, 253, 257, 259, 266, 267, 268, 269, 271, 274, 279, 295, 375, 447. prominence of, needed, 1264, 1269, 1277. Employment of workmen and mechanics on, 14, 16, 20, 21, 22. Enclosing square around, 226. See also under Grounds. Expenditures on, 125, 137, 149, 150, 162, 166, 173, 186, 187, 188, 193, 197, 200, 202, 207, 219, 224, 229, 230, 232, 234, 239, 248, 249, 253, 254, 255, 256, 262, 267, 279, 280, 294, 301, 311, 327, 329, 346. for rebuilding wings, 311. External work on, pronounced nearly finished, 1822. Foundation of, 34, 35. found defective, 35, 36. Fountain, 329. Freestone, walls ordered to be of, 29. work begun, 36. Frescoes, 372. Historical paintings, 755, 756. Improvements on, 335. recommended in 1848, 425, 429. Inscription on plate deposited in corner stone, 29. Law Library Room, 352, 355, 356, 368, 382, 384, 385, 386, 388, 390, 392, 393, 394, 395, 757, 763, 764, 765. Leaks in roof, 91, 122, 129, 161, 332. 1304 INDEX, Old Building, The— C ontinued. Library Boom, 12, 153, 154, 257, 263, 266, 269, 270, 279. burning of, in 1851, 341, 342, 347, 361. enlargement of, proposed in 1844, fora Repre- sentatives' Hall, 421, 422, 424, 429. enlargement proposed in 1850, 431, 433, 437, 448. enlargement of, in 1852, 341, 344, 347, 348, 349, 352. enlargement of, in 1865, 362, 366, 367, 368. Library section, new committee rooms, 401, 402, 980, 988, 989. Lime, 33. Marble columns for, 215, 218, 220, 221. Masonry, 30, 31. time work and piecework, 31. North wing, 80, 105, 106, 112, 115, 117, 121, 122, 123, 125, 127, 130, 134, 136, 145, 146, 147, 149, 150, 152, 155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 162, 163, 164, 165, 167, 168, 170, 191, 196, 207, 210, 212, 213, 218, 225, 230, 233, 297. defective roof of, 116, 121, 161. roof of, 129, 209, 369. Offices, external, etc., 269, 272, 273, 275, 276, 282, 283, 284, 288, 289, 290, 291, 294, 295, 296, 297, 299. Paintings, in, 301, 302, 335, 340, 369, 372, 373, 376, 976, 976. Passageway, of wood, between North and South wings, 99. Plans of, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 80, 31, 35, 107, 127. Plastering, breaches in, 89, 91. Portico, East front, 27, 28, 253, 257, 259, 266, 267, 268, 269, 271, 274, 279, 295, 447. Premium for plans of, 25. Progress on, reported, 1796, 62, 76, 78. 1798, 80, 84. 1799, 86, 87, 88, 89. 1800, 92. 1801, 99. 1802, 103. 1804, 104, 107, 111, 114. 1805, 115. 1807, 129. 1808, 131, 141, 146, 151. 1809, 155, 157. 1810, 160, 162. 1811, 162, 167. 1816, 190. 1817, 193, 197. 1818, 201, 205, 207, 209, 2117 1819, 210, 215. 1820, 225, 234. 1821, 238, 244. 1822, 242, 247, 251. 1823, 253, 254, 255, 257. 1824, 258, 261, 265, 266. 1826, 272, 279. 1827, 282, 294. 1852, 344, 347. References to, 41. Repainting, 812, 813. Representatives’ Hall, 12, 96, 112, 114, 119, 129, 131, 133, 150, 159, 160, 161, 164, 170, 198, 201, 206, 212, 218, 220, 222, 685, 688, 868. acoustic defects of, 133, 134, 235, 236, 260, 268, 284, 285, 286, 287, 288, 304, 307, 310, 319, 320, 429, 439, 526. Old Building, The— C ontinued. Representatives’ Hall — Continued, alterations in, 234, 235, 236, 238,239, 241, 244, 251, 252, 256, 257, 268, 284, 285, 286, 287, 288, 295, 304, 307, 310, 319, 320,326,331, 333, 334, 369. ceiling, 119, 122, 132, 237. chandelier, 336, 337, 338. details of construction of, 96. echoes, 406. furnaces for, 339. furniture for, 252. inadequacy of, 425, 699. in 1843, 408. in 1844, 421. in 1848, 429. in 1850, 430, 439. used as Statuary Hall, 356, 357 , 361, 362, 366, 369, 372. ventilation of, 377. Reservoirs, 329, 330. Restoration of, 173, 174, 176, 180, 181, 184, 185, 191, 192, 200, 201, 204, 225. Rotunda, 12, 218, 228, 234, 244, 251, 257, 259, 263, 265, 266, 269, 274, 277, 285, 288, 291, 293, 295, 296, 297, 318, 327, 331, 335, 336, 338, 362, 369, 374, 376, 377, 391, 392, 396, 397, 402, 406, 446, 745, 1001, 1006, 1009, 1014, 1018. estimated cost of renovating and decorating, 1274, 1275. ornamentation of, 994, 1025, 1027, 1028. paintings in, 301, 302, 977. proposed remodeling of, 866, 867, 868, 870. renovation and decoration of, 1271, 1272, 1273, 1274, 1275. statuary in, 976. Sculpture in, 164, 169, 170, 266, 269, 274, 277, 293,296. Senate Chamber, 12, 106, 122, 145, 146, 147, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 160, 161, 170, 189, 198, 201, 212, 213, 215, 218, 221 , 222, 430, 526, 685, 688. allegorical clock in, 256, 262, 269, 274. alterations in, 233, 234, 238, 239, 241, 244, 276, 285, 295, 298, 331. altered for use of Supreme Court, 352, 355, 356, 757, 758, 759, 760, 761, 762, 763, 764, 765. declared large enough in 1852, 526. defective ceiling of, 121, 122, 134. floor of, collapse of, 147. inadequacy of, 599. new roof over, 369. seats in, 298. Skylights, 122. South wing, 80, 96, 105, 106, 114, 115, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 131, 135, 136, 137, 140, 144, 145, 146, 147, 149,150, 152, 157, 158, 159, 164, 165, 167, 168, 190, 196, 205, 207, 210, 212, 213, 218, 225, 230, 233. enlargement of, proposed in 1843, 408, 410, 412, 416, 417. fireproofing, 369. furniture for, 136. House Document Room, 402, 403, 404, 407. necessity for rebuilding walls of, 105, 112, 113. new roof over, 369. rebuilding walls of, 112, 113. steel shelving in, 404, 407. Statuary Hall, 356,357, 361,362,366,369,372,909, 975, 976, 980. fireproof ceiling, 402,405,406. INDEX. 1305 Old Building, The — Continued. Statues in, 278, 975, 976. Supreme Court Chamber, 122, 127, 162, 205, 206, 258, 259, 367, 368, 447, 755, 757, 758, 759, 760, 761, 762, 763, 764.765,980. elevator for, 971. explosion and fire under, in 1898, 376 fireproof ceiling, 402, 405. inadequate in 1850, 430, 431. statuary in, 975. ventilating apparatus for, 971, 972, 973. Water supply of, 210, 213, 224, 311, 312, 313, 316, 325, 327, 329, 330, 331. Work begun on, 29. “Old Put leaving his plow,” 670. Olin, Ctideon, Representative from Vermont: De- bates, 124. Olmsted, Frederick Law, 12, 1154, 1155, 1157, 1158, 1159, 1160, 1161, 1162, 1163, 1164, 1167, 1170, 1172, 1176, 1177, 1180, 1182, 1183, 1184, 1201, 1202, 1203, 1209, 1211, 1213, 1215, 1216, 1217, 1219, 1220, 1223, 1224, 1225, 1227, 1228, 1229, 1230, 1232, 1233, 1234, 1237, 1238, 1239, 1241, 1243, 1244, 1248, 1250, 1253. O’Neill, Charles, Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Debates, 911, 912, 916. Orr, James L., Representative from South Caro- lina, 669, 705: Debates, 459, 490, 491, 633. Orth, Godlove S., Representative from Indiana: Debates, 829. Ould, Robert, 1070, 1074, 1077, 1083, 1086, 1143. Owen, Doctor, 555. Owen, Robert Dale, Representative from Indiana: Resolution by, 421. P. Page, John, Representative from Virginia: De- bates, 70. Page, Horace F., Representative from California: Debates, 935, 936. Paine, William W., Representative from Georgia, 1099. Paintings in the Capitol, list of, 976. Palmerston, Lord, 854. Pantheon of Agrippa, 995. Parker, James, Representative from New Jersey: Debates, 326, 1049. Parker, Richard Wayne, Representative from New Jersey: Debates, 388, 389, 395. Parking Commission, 1187. Parliament, English Houses of, 657, 854, 920. Parliamentary Papers, Great Britain, 731, 734. Parthenon, The, 730, 1131. Patterson, David T., Senator from Tennessee: Bill introduced by, 1080. Payne, Sereno E., Representative from New York: Debates, 1282. Pearce, James A., Senator from Maryland, 430, 676, 684, 690, 755, 756, 757. Pearce, John J., Representative from Pennsylva- nia: Debates, 633; Resolution by, 341. Pearson, Joseph, Representative from North Carolina: Debates, 181. Peel, Right Hon. Sir Robert, 736, 847. Pendleton, George H., Representative from Ohio: Report by, 727, 729. Penniman. Ebenezer J., Representative from Michigan: Debates, 463. Pennington, William, Representative from New Jersey, 744. Pericles, 730. Perkins, John, jr., Representative from Louisi- ana: Debates, 612. Permanent seat of government, act establish- ing, 6. address of President on, 10. amendatory act, 9. message of President concerning, 7, 10. proclamations of President concerning, 7, 9. Perit, P., 341. Perry, Aaron F., Representative from Ohio: De- bates, 1118. Persico, Luigi, 318. Peters, John A., Representative from Maine: De- bates, 1102, 1103, 1127, 1142. Peters, Thomas, 1040. Pettit, John U., Representative from Indiana: Amendments offered by, 774, 775, 777; De- bates, 770, 771, 772, 774, 775. Phelps, Dodge & Co., 1021, 1023. Phelps, John S., Representative from Missouri: Debates, 632, 633, 634, 725, 768, 778, 779. Phelps, Timothy G., Representative from Cali- fornia: Debates, 821. Phidias, 701, 730, 1131. Pickens, Israel, Representative from North Caro- lina: Debates, 173. Pickering, Timothy, Representative from Massa- chusetts: Debates, 184, 1032, 1033. Pickman, Benjamin, jr., Representative from Massachusetts: Debates, 165. Pierce, Franklin, 585, 642, 643, 650, 656, 664, 790, 795, 797, 799, 804, 805, 806. Piper, William, Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Debates, 169. Piper, William A. , Representative from California: Debates, 890, 1169, 1170. Plans of the Capitol, see under Extensions, Dome, Old Building, and Terraces. Plan of city of Washington, 10, 11, 14, 101. Plater, Thomas, Representative from Maryland: Debates, 114. Platt, James H,, jr., Representative from Virginia: Debates, 876, 877, 879, 886, 887, 1155, 1156. Plumb, Preston B., Senator from Kansas: Debates, 939, 940, 941, 945, 947, 949, 950, 951, 952, 1213, 1247, 1260, 1261. Plumbing of the Capitol, 956 et seq. , 965 et seq. , 970. Pnyx, Athens, 1131. Poindexter, George, Senator from Mississippi: Debates, 318, 319. Poinsett, Joel Roberts, Representative from South Carolina, Minister to Mexico, 306. Poland, Luke P., Representative from Vermont: Debates, 1124, 1125, 1132, 1133, 1134. Polk, James K., Representative from Tennessee: Debates, 317. Polk, Trusten, Senator from Missouri: Debates, 675, 762. Pomeroy, Samuel C., Senator from Kansas: De- bates, 1088. Pool & Hunt, 994. Porter, J. M., 408, 410, 424. 1306 INDEX. Portland cement, 1181. Post-Office Department building, referred to, 41. Potomac marble, 819. Potomac River, 316, 1012. Potter, Mr., 1210. Potter, Gen. Carroll H., 1026. Potter, Clarkson N., Representative from New York: Debates, 876, 879, 880, 1122, 1133. Powers, Hiram, 613, 630, 637, 655, 825, 827, 1050, 1051. Pratt, Thomas G., Senator from Maryland: De- bates, 1055, 1060. Pratt, Zadock, Representative from New York: Report by, 421. Praxiteles, 1131. Premiums offered for plans of Capitol, 15, 445. President’s House, referred to, 14, 15, 24, 41, 86. Presidents of United States, 7, 9, 10, 11, 29, 104, 111, 115, 119, 124, 131, 146, 157, 162, 163, 166, 169, 171, 172, 182, 198, 199, 200, 206, 214, 215, 220, 222, 223, 234, 241, 250, 256,265,279,294,301,344,445,448, 449, 450, 451, 452, 471, 475, 493, 494, 509, 510, 511, 513, 514, 515, 523, 525, 567, 568, 581, 584, 585, 594, 610, 612, 613, 619, 620, 622, 623, 626, 631, 635, 637, 638, 642, 643, 644, 650, 651, 656, 657, 659, 664, 665, 671, 673, 692, 700, 702, 742, 743, 771, 772, 790, 791, 797, 799, 804, 805, 813, 814, 825, 992, 993, 998, 1033, 1034, 1035, 1048, 1049, 1063, 1069. addresses of, 86, 89, 91, 92. letters from, 15, 18, 20, 22, 24, 27, 28, 36, 76, 77, 96, 145, 157, 185, 186, 198, 220. letters to, 14, 25, 33, 35, 36, 37, 86, 97, 103, 104, 146, 221, 223. messages of, 7, 10, 11, 38, 79,100, 103,104,111,115, 119, 124, 131, 146, 162, 163, 166, 169, 172, 186, 199, 200, 206, 214, 215, 234, 241, 250, 256, 265, 279, 294, 452, 515. portraits of, 907. proclamations of, 7, 9, 171. Preston, Jacob A., Representative fromMaryla 422. Price, H. G., 615. Price, Hiram, Representative from Iowa: Debates, 358, 359, 360, 828, 860, 1028. Prices of materials, from 1793 to 1818, 232, 233. in 1818 and 1820, 240. in 1821, 247. Pringle, Benjamin, Representative from New York: Debates, 641. Proclamations by Presidents, 7, 9, 171. Propyltea, Athens, 1131. Prospect Park, Brooklyn, N. Y., 1216. Provest, Winter & Co., 628, 644, 651, 658, 659, 810. Prudhomme, J. F. E., 341. Pruyn, John Y. L., Representative from New York: Debates, 365, 834, 835, 862. Public buildings and grounds, officer in charge of, 884. Public Buildings, Committees on, of House and Senate, to confer on Extensions, 438, 440. Public Buildings, Senate Committee on, adver- tise for plans for Extensions, 445. Public works, clerk of, 119, 161. Pugh, George E., Senator from Ohio: Debates, 710, 761, 762, 1063. Pumps, steam, number of, 13. Puryear, R. C., Representative from North Caro- lina, 645; Debates, 644. Putnam, Herbert, 377, 378, 379. Putnam, Israel, picture, etc.., 670. Q- Quarries, 120, 187, 191, 204, 220, 221, 222, 229, 232, 516, 558. Quartermaster-General, Army, 791, 806, 807. Quarles, James M., Representative from Tennes- see: Debates, 767, 768, 778. Queen, John, 194. Quitman, John A., Representative from Missis- sippi: Debates, 649, 692, R. Ramsey, Alexander, Senator from Minnesota, 1100. Randall, Samuel J., Representative from Penn- sylvania, 930; Debates, 934, 935, 936, 937. 1161, 1237. Randolph, Edmund, 34, 35, 36. Randolph, John, jr., Representative from Vir- ginia: Debates, 103, 104, 124, 138, 139, 143, 161,225,637; Senator from Virginia: Debates, 276, 277; Report by, 276. Ransom, Matt. W., Senator from North Carolina: Debates, 1149. Reagan, John H., Representative from Texas: Debates, 774, 912, 914, 931, 932, 933; Resolu- tion offered by, 932. Redemptioners, German, importation of, 20. Reed, Philip, Senator from Maryland: Debates, 144, 153. Reese, Captain, 222. Reference library proposed, 377, 378, 379, 390, 391, 392, 396. Removal of Capital to Mississippi Valley dis- cussed, 1089 et seq., 1104. Removal of the Government to Washington, act providing for, 90. referred to, 86, 91, 92. Renwick, James, 341. Representatives Hall, see under Extensions and Old Building. Retrocession to Virginia of a part of the District of Columbia, 11. Reynolds, James B., Representative from Ten- nessee: Debates, 1032. Revier Copper Company, 1021, 1023. Rhea, John, Representative from Tennessee: Debates: 165, 166, 181, 185, 225, 1036. Rice, Alexander H., Representative from Massa- chusetts: Resolution by, 842. Rice, Baird & Heebner, 628, 660, 667, 766, 740, 741, 742, 743. Rice, John H., Representative from Maine: Bill reported by, 1080; Debates, 357, 834, 835, 837, 856, 857, 1080. Rice & Heebner, 777, 778, 779, 780, 781, 810. Richards, Matthias, Representative from Penn- sylvania: Debates, 162. Richardson, James D., Representative from Ten- nessee, 978; Debates, 383, 384, 385, 386, 387, 388, 389, 390, 391, 392, 394, 1281. Richardson, William A., Representative from Illinois, 438; Debates, 453, 454, 804. INDEX. 1307 Richmond, Va., granite quarries, 516. Riddle, George R., Representative from Delaware: Resolution by, 459. Ridgely, E. R., Representative from Kansas: De- bates, 381. Ridgley, Henry M., Senator from Delaware: De- bates, 301. Riggs, George W., 1077. Rinehart, William H., 825. Ringold, French, 186. Robbins, Asher, Senator from Rhode Island: De- bates, 318. Robbins, John,jr., Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Debates, 492. Robbins, William M., Representative from North Carolina: Debates, 922. Roberts, Anthony E., Representative from Penn- sylvania, 645, 650. Roberts, Jonathan, Senator from Pennsylvania: Report by, 213. Roberts, W. R., Representative from New York: Debates, 1121, 1122, 1126. Robertson, E. W., Representative from Louisiana: Debates, 925. Robertson, Thomas B., Representative from Louisiana: Debates, 1032. Robeson, George M., Representative from New Jersey: Debates, 931. Rochester, William B., Representative from New Y r ork: Debates, 1036. Rock Creek, 316, 1046, 1047. woods of, 1188. Rockwell, Col. A. F., 1187. Roe, C. McDermott, 29, 30, 36. Rogers, J. H., 924, 925. Rogers, Randolph, 655, 702, 736, 737, 744, 747, 755, 770, 771, 774, 777, 778, 779, 782, 785, 809, 810, 817, 825, 827. Roebling, Mr., 996. Rollins, Edward H., Senator from New Hamp- shire, 1182; Debates, 937, 938, 1223, 1225, 1226, 1227; Report by, 937. Rooms in the Capitol, number of, 13. Ross, Edmund G., Senator from Kansas: Debates, 1094. Ross, General, 171. Roosevelt, Clinton, 341. Roosevelt, Robert B., Representative from New York: Debates, 1122, 1123, 1125. Rosecrans, William S., Representative from Cali- fornia: Debates, 1237. Root, Erastus, Representative from New York: Debates, 1032. Rotunda, see under Old Building. Rusk, Thomas J., Senator from Texas: Debates, 442, 521, 522, 531, 536, 538, 543, 544, 545, 546, 548, 1062. Rust, Albert, Representative from Arkansas: De- bates, 633, 648. Rutherford, Robert, Representative from Vir- ginia: Debates, 50, 68. Rutledge, John, j r. , Representative from South Carolina: Debates, 82, 94. S. Sackett, William A., Representative from New York: Debates, 455, 456, 458. Sanderson’s block, District of Columbia, 1108. Sanitary condition bf the Capitol, 956 ei seq., 965 et. seq., 970. Sanitary experts, report of, 965. Sargent, Aaron A., Representative from Califor- nia: Debates, 870, 871, 876, 1118, 1119, 1120, 1128, 1129, 1137, 1140, 1142'. Saul, John, 1187. Saulsbury, Eli, Senator from Delaware: Debates, 954. Saunders, William, 1186, 1187. Sawyer, Philetus, Senator from Wisconsin: De- bates, 1148. Schenck, Robert C., Representative from Ohio: Debates, 360, 866, 1104. Schneider’s Sons, C. A., 398. Schoenborn, August, 1271, 1274. Scofield, Glenni W., Representative from Penn- sylvania: Debates, 828 , 855, 856, 1080, 1139, 1140, 1141, 1142. Schurz, Carl, 907, 1172, 1203, 1266. Scott, Gen. Winfield, 640, 789. Scott, Gustavus, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 38, 79, 85, 86, 89, 91. Scott, Thomas A., 789. Scottish workmen, employment of, 14, 16, 20. Scurry, Richardson, Representative from Texas: Debates, 492. Seat of Government, act establishing, 6. address of President on, 10. amendatory act, 9. message of President concerning, 7, 10. proclamation of President concerning, 7, 9. Secor & Co., 1137. Sedgwick, Theodore, Representative from Mas- sachusetts: Debates, 48, 53, 56, 61. Selye, Lewis, Representative from New Y^ork: Debates, 860, 861, 862, 1028. Senate Chamber, see Extensions and Old Build- ing. Senate, Chief Engineer of, 938, 939. Senate Committee on Public Buildings author- ized to invite plans for Extension, 443. advertise for plans of Extensions, 445. Seneca stone for flagging, 1049. Seward, James L., Representative from Georgia: Debates, 709. Seward, William H., Senator from New Y r ork: ^ Debates, 531, 535, 541, 544, 676, 679, 683, , 1006, 1062, 1065; Resolution offered by, 702. Sewell, William J., Senator from New Jersey: Debates, 1241, 1244. Seymour, David L., Representative from New York: Debates, 470. Seymour, Origen S., Representative from Con- necticut: Debates, 468, 478, 484. Shafroth, John F., Representative from Colorado: Debates, 382, 385, 386, 387, 389, 392, 393, 394, 396. Shallenberger, W. S., Representative from Penn- sylvania: Debates, 934, 935, 936, 937; Report by, 934 Sharp, Solomon P., Representative from Ken- tucky: Debates, 174. Sharpe, Peter, Representative from New York: Debates, 261. Shee, Sir Martin Arthur, 731, 734. Sherburne, John A., Assistant Adjutant-General, 812. 1308 INDEX. Sherman, John, Representative from Ohio: Amendment offered by, 752; Debates, 355, 356, 698, 7 5‘2, 776, 777, 778, 780, 784, 1C67, 1068; Senator from Ohio, 806, 853; Amendment offered by, 803; Debates, 803, 1085, 1149, 1157, 1158. Shields, James, Senator from Illinois: Amend- ment offered by, 546; Debates, 461, 462, 496, 497, 502, 540, 542, 544, 546, 547, 548. Shipherd, Zebulon R., Representative from New York: Debates, 181. Shuman, F., 891, 893, 907, 922. Shumway, Henry C., 341. Sickles, Daniel E., Representative from New York: Debates, 692, 695. Sinks in the Capitol, number of, 13. Sitgreaves, Samuel, Representative from Penn- sylvania, 56, 65, 71, 72, 79. Skinner, I. L., 1044, 1048. Skinner’s Grand Basin, 1041, 1044, 1048. Skirving, John, 340, 349. Skylights, 13. Slidell, John, Senator from Louisiana: Debates, 757. Slight, Pringle, 330, 332. Sloan, James, Representative from New Jersey: Debates, 155. Smallwood, Mr., 89. Smilie, John, Representative from Pennsylvania: Debates, 110, 127, 143, 155. Smith, Caleb B., 786, 809, 811, 813, 814, 820, 1022, 1023, 1024, 1071, 1072. Smith, Capt. Frederick A., 506, 508, 525. Smith, David H., Representative from Kentucky: Debates, 389. Smith, Hezekiah B., Representative from New Jersey: Debates, 925. Smith, Hoke, 971. Smith, Jeremiah, Representative from New Hampshire: Debates, 43, 44, 47, 48, 49, 51, 52, 56, 57; Reports by, 40, 62. Smith, John A., 327, 328, 331, 1051. Smith, John Cotton, Representative from Con- necticut: Debates, 114. Smith, Mr., of New York, 350. Smith, Samuel, Representative from Maryland: Debates, 49, 51, 82, 249, 1032; Senator from Maryland: Debates, 149, 298, 1036. Smith, Samuel, Representative from New Hamp- shire, 173. Smith, William, Representative from Virginia, 673. Smith, William, Senator from South Carolina: Debates, 298, 299. Smith, William J., 551, 553. Smith, William F., 1187, 1189. Smith’s Springs, 313, 314, 315, 327, 330. purchase of, 1050, 1051. Smithmeyer, John L., 1267, 1268, 1270. Smithsonian Institution, 841. Smithsonian Park, 1187. Sollers, A. R., Representative from Maryland: Debates, 991, 992, 993, 1004. Somerville, Mr., 132. Southern Park, Chicago, 1216. Spalding, Rufus P., Representative from Ohio: Debates, 364. Spaulding, Elbridge G., Representative from New York: Debates, 778. Speaker, House of Representatives, 302, 328, 332, 347, 362, 379, 381, 404, 408, 453, 454, 455, 456, 458, 459, 460, 463, 669, 705, 744, 814, 862, 926, 928, 929, 930, 1034, 1041, 1051, 1052, 1228. Spencer, Frederick R,, 341. Spofford, A. R., 373, 394. Spooner, John C., Senator from Wisconsin: De- bates, 377, 390; Resolution by, 377. Sprague, William, Senator from Rhode Island: Debates, 843, 875. Springer, William M., Representative from Illi- nois: Debates, 899, 900, 904, 905, 936. Springs, see Water supply. Square, Capitol, see Grounds. Stanford, Richard, Representative from North Caroline: Debates, 79, 138, 143, 144, 155, 165, 184; Report by, 140. StaDly, Edward, Representative from North Caro- lina: Debates, 478. Stanton, Benjamin, Representative from Ohio; Debates, 674, 696, 766, 767. Stanton, Edwin M., 791, 798. Stanton, Frederick P., Representative from Ten- nessee: Debates, 440, 457, 459, 491, 619. Stanton, Richard H., Representative from Ken- tucky, 578, 615, 616, 639, 641, 999; Amendments offered by, 468, 990, 993; Debates, 454, 455, 456, 468, 469, 471, 472, 473, 474, 475, 476, 477, 478, 479, 482, 483, 484, 485, 486, 487, 490, 491, 492, 493, 609, 611, 612, 613, 614, 615, 619, 620, 621, 622, 623, 624, 625, 626, 640, 990, 991, 992, 1004, 1053. Star, The, Washington, 1231. State, Secretary of, 11, 14, 16, 17, 20, 23, 26, 28, 34, 35, 36, 284, 285, 287, 288, 304, 310, 320, 448. Statuary Hall, see under Old Building. Statuary, list of, 975. Statue of Washington, Greenough’s, 317, 318, 325, 336, 338, 339. Statues, States invited to contribute, 357, 361, 366. St. Bartholomew’s Church, Brooklyn, N. Y., 588. St. Genevieve, Paris, 1002, 1019. St. George’s Hall, Liverpool, 657. St. Paul’s, London, 670, 1002, 1019. St. Peter’s, Rome, 730, 1002, 1019, 1233. dome of, 995. Stedman, William, Representative from Massa- chusetts: Debates, 139. Steele, John B., Representative from New York: Debates, 359. Steele, W. L., Representative from North Caro- lina: Debates, 910. Stephens, Alexander H., Representative from Georgia: Debates, 460, 478. Stephens, John H., Representative from Texas: Debates, 1278, 1279, 1280. Stephenson, John G., 787. Stevens, Thaddeus, Representative from Penn- sylvania: Debates, 357, 359, 362, 453, 454, 778, 820, 821, 822, 827, 828, 830, 834, 837, 855, 857, 858, 1081, 1082. Stevenson, Andrew, Representative from Vir- ginia: Debates, 278, 279. Stevenson, Job E., Representative fromOhio: De- bates, 877. INDEX. 1309 Stevenson, John W., Representative from Ken- tucky: Debates, 355; Senator from Ken- tucky: Debates, 1202. Stewart, R. H., 790. Stewart, William M., Senator from Nevada: De- bates, 1093. Stockton, John P., Senator from New Jersey: Debates, 1097, 1098. Stockton, Richard, Representative from New Jersey: Debates, 173. Stockton, Robert F., Senator from New Jersey: Debates, 497. Stone carvers, 32. Stonecutters, 32. importation of, 16, 22. Storm, John B., Representative from Penn- sylvania: Debates, 1114, 1115, 1117. Strickland, William, 284, 285, 286, 287, 288, 310, 320, 409, 416, 417, 421, 422, 424. Strobeek, Charles H.,403, 404. Strong, Mr., 574. Stuart, Alex. H. H., 346, 347, 348, 450, 451, 461, 464, 516, 517, 518, 552, 558, 566. Stuart, Charles E., Senator from Michigan: De- bates, 679, 681. Stuart, David, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32. Stuart, David, Representative from Michigan: Debates, 993. Stuart, General, Chief Engineer, U. S. Army, 481. Sumner, Charles, Senator from Massachusetts: Debates, 846, 847, 848, 849, 850, 851, 1154. Sumter, Thomas, Representative from South Caro- lina: Debates, 79. Superintendent in charge of construction of Cap- itol Extension, 727, 740, 741, 743, 758, 763, 764, 766, 778, 781, 783, 785, 786, 993, 997, 999, 1000, 1002, 1004, 1005, 1006, 1007, 1009, 1010, 1011, 1012, 1013, 1016, 1019, 1020. Superintendent of House Document Room, 402, 403, 404. Superintendent of Public Works, 1010. Superintendent of Public Buildings, 639, 640, 641. house for, 299. Superintendent of Washington, 101, 103, 124, 140, 141, 149, 150, 161, 162, 167, 169, 173, 189. Supervisor of Buildings, etc., 22. Supreme Court of the United States, 911, 1108. accommodations for, 352, 355, 356, 367, 368. building for, referred to, 1258. quarters asked for and provided in Capitol, 94. space for, in proposed Extension of Central East Front, 1267. to use old Senate Chamber, 433. Supreme Court Chamber, see under Old Build- ing. Supreme court of District of Columbia, 1136. Superintendent of the Capitol, 76, 78, 84, 87, 88, 92, 96, 97, 99. Superintendent of the Capitol Building and Grounds, 12, 13, 403, 405, 406, 407, 987, 988, 989, 1271, 1272, 1274, 1278, 1279, 1283. Surgeon-General of the Army, 813. Surveyor of the Capitol, 190, 191, 193, 196, 197, 202. Surveyor of the Public Buildings, 104, 107, 110, 111, 114, 115, 119, 120, 126, 129, 131, 140, 142, 146, 151, 163, 154, 155, 156, 157, 160, 162, 163, 167. Sutherland, Joel B., Representative from Penn- sylvania: Debates, 326. Swann, Thomas, Representative from Maryland: Debates, 867, 868, 1117, 1118. Swanwick, John, Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Debates, 47, 50, 55, 60, 68, 70. Swift, Gen. ,1. G., 198, 199, 220, 221, 222. Swift, Zephaniah, Representative from Con- necticut: Debates, 43, 45, 47, 48, 53, 58. T. Tabernacle, Brooklyn, N. Y., 588. Taliaferro, John, Representative from Virginia: Report by, 1048. Tallmadge, Benjamin, Representative from Con- necticut, 166. | Tawney, James A., Representative from Min- nesota: Debates, 387, 1282, 1283. Taylor, Col. J. P., 789. Taylor, George, Representative from New York: Amendments offered by, 691, 692; Bill introduced by, 669; Debates, 670, 691, 692, 693, 695, 696, 699, 701; Report by, 729. Taylor, John L., Representative from Ohio: Debates, 991, 992, 993, 1004. Taylor, John W., Representative from New York, 284; Debates, 185,-225, 250, 264, 299, 1035, 1036; Reports by, 264. Taylor, Mr., 18. Telegraph, connection of Capitol with the Depart- ments by, 884. Teller, Henry M., Secretary of the Interior, 1230. Senator from Colorado: Debates, 940, 942, 945, 1208, 1249, 1250, 1251, 1253. Temporary and permanent seat of government, act establishing, 6. address of President on, 10. amendatory act, 9. message of President concerning, 7, 10. proclamations of President concerning, 7, 9. Temporary building for committee rooms, 205, 206, 226. Tennessee marble, 628, 661, 818, 819. Terraces, The: Account of development of plan for, 1248 et seq. Approaches, 1203, 1204, 1212, 1213, 1214, 1217, 1218, 1219, 1221, 1222, 1223, 1227. Appropriations for, 1217, 1227, 1236, 1237, 1260, 1262. Balustrade, 1260, 1262. Bill for completion of, 1228, 1230, 1242. Bronze lamps, 1229, 1260, 1262, 1263. Bronze vases, 1260, 1262, 1263. Changes not to be made in, without estimates, 1223, 1225, 1227, 1228. Committee rooms in, 1221, 1223, 1225, 1230, 1232, 1238, 1239, 1241, 1242, 1245, 1246, 1247, 1250, 1251, 1252, 1255, 1256, 1258, 1262. Completion of, 1263. Condition of, reported, 1882, 1217. Construction of proposed, 1201, 1203. Debates on, in House, 1218, 1237. Debates on, in Senate, 1201, 1203, 1204, 1207, 1211, 1218, 1228, 1230, 123S, 1247, 1260, 1261. 1310 INDEX. Terraces, The — Continued. Estimates in detail for, 1228, 1229, 1230, 1243, 1244, 1245, 1247, 1253, 1259. Esplanade, 1232. Flagging on, 869, 875. Fountain, 1262, 1263. Grand stairways on, 1230, 1237, 1253, 1258, 1259, 1260, 1261, 1262, 1263. Heating apparatus for, 1263. Lighting of, 1238. Marble recommended for, 1180. Necessity of constructing, 1074, 1076. Necessity of marble, pointed out, 1203, 1209, 1210, 1231, 1235. New roof over, 377. Objection to Olmsted plan, 1233, 1248 et seq. Pavement of, 1262. Plans of, by Frederick Law Olmsted, 1201, 1202, 1203, 1213, 1224, 1227, 1232, 1240, 1244, 1245, 1247, 1248, 1249. Progress reported, 1882, 1224. 1883, 1227. 1884, 1236. 1885, 1237. 1886, 1260. 1S92. 1263. References to, 11, 1082. Removal of earthen terraces, 1209. Rooms in, referred to, 956, 959, 965, 967, 969. Rustic terraces criticised , 1203, 1232. Stairways, 1157, 1162, 1172, 1176, 1180, 1203, 1207, 1209, 1211, 1221, 1229, 1230, 1250. Steam heating of interior, 1262. Ventilation and lighting of rooms in, 973, 1238, 1250 et seq., 1261. Vaults in, 1201, 1202, 1211, 1260. Tests of building stone for foundations for Ex- tensions, 559, 593. Tests of marble, Extensions, 551, 554, 558, 586, 591. Thames Tunnel, England, 1007. Thatcher, George, Representative from Massa- chusetts: Debates, 60, 82. Thomas, Isaac, Representative from Tennessee: Debates, 186. Thompson, J., 1066. Thompson, Jacob, Representative from Missis- sippi: Debates, 439, 440. Thompson, Philip R., Representative from Vir- ginia: Debates, 110, 114. Thorington, James, Representative from Iowa: Debates, 633. Thornton, Dr. William, 12, 19, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 38, 79, 85, 86, 89, 91, 94, 97, 101, 108, 1273. Thurston, Buckner, Senator from Kentucky: De- bates, 153. Thurman, Allen G., Senator from Ohio, 943; De- bates, 1201, 1202. Tiber Creek, 316, 330, 1040, 1044, 1045, 1046, 1047. Tipton, Thomas W., Senator from Nebraska: De- bates, 1092. Tod, John, Representative from Pennsylvania, 264. Todd, Lemuel, Representative from Pennsyl- vania, 645, 650. Toilets in the Capitol, number of, 13. Tombs, Prison, New York, 874. Tompkins, C. B., Representative from Ohio: Debates, 726. Toombs, Robert, Senator from Georgia: Amend- ment offered by, 752; Debates, 754, 757, 760, 764, 779, 1065. Totten, Gen. Joseph G., 506, 525, 558, 559. Toussaint, church of Angers, 1002, 1019. Townsend, Washington, Representative from Pennsylvania; Debates, 883, 1120, 1121, 1122. Topographical Engineers, Army, 408, 410, 411, 413, 416, 421, 422, 424, 506, 525, 585, 592, 785. Topographical Survey of Capitol Grounds, 1154, 1155, 1156. Townsend, Martin I., Representative from New Y T ork: Debates, 915, 916, 917, 918. Tracy, Uriah, Senator from Connecticut: Debates, 92. Trafton, Mark, Representative from Massachu- setts: Debates, 631. Train, Charles R., Representative from Massachu- setts: Debates, 804, 805, 807, 808; Resolution reported by, 803. Transfer of Government to Washington, 86. act providing for, 90, 91, 92. Treasury, Comptroller of the, 482. Treasury, Secretary of the, 99, 186, 187, 347, 493, 646, 647, 664, 698, 699, 767, 769, 1228, 1237, 1238, 1243, 1244, 1245, 1247, 1259, 1260, 1261. Tredegar Iron Works, 629. Trees, see under Grounds. Trinidad asphalt, 1171. Trinity Church, Washington, D. C., 1059. Trowbridge, Rowland E., Representative from Michigan: Debates, 820,821. Trumbull, John, 301, 302, 304. Trumbull , Lyman, Senator from Illinoi ~ : Amend- ment offered by, 858; Bill introduced by, 1074; Debates, 354, 763,764,848,858, 873, 1074, 1075, 1076, 1077, 1078, 1079, 1088. Tucker, Henry St. George, Representative from Virginia, 220: Debates, 1032, 1033; Motions by, 1032, 1033; Report by, 202. Turner, Judge, 17, 18, 19. Tweed, William M., Representative from New Y’ork: Debates, 993. Tyner, James N., Representative from Indiana: Debates, 881. U. Underwood, Joseph, Senator from Kentucky, 550; Debates, 533, 534, 536, 540, 541, 546, 548, 571, 573, 574, 575, 577, 578, 579, 580, 581, 582. Underwood, Warner, L., Representative from Kentucky: Debates, 728. Urinals in the Capitol, number of, 13. Usher, J. P., 814, 826, 833, 1025, 1073. V. Valk, William W., Representative from New York: Resolution by, 664. Vallandingham, Clement L. Representative from Ohio: Debates, 356. Van Buren, Martin, Senator from New York: Debates, 298. Van Camp's patent pavement, 1171. INDEX, 1311 Van Cortlandt, Philip, Representative from New York: Debates, 126. Vanderlyn, John, 335. Vanness, John P., 186. Van Rensselaer, Stephen, Representative from New York: 276, 297, 1036, 1039; Debates, 299; Reports by, 271, 282, 1038. Van Riswick, J., 1077. Van Stephorts & Hubbard, 16. Van Wyck, Charles H., Representative from New Y r ork: Debates, 860, 1029; Senator from Ne- braska: Debates, 1216, 1231. Van Wyck, William W., Representative from New l 7 ork: Debates, 1035, 1036. Varnum, Joseph B., Representative from Massa- chusetts, 79: Debates, 48, 49, 51, 82. Venable, Abraham, Representative from Virginia: Debates, 55, 56, 57. Venable, A. W., Representative from North Car- olina: Debates, 456, 457, 458, 459, 489. Ventilating apparatus, see under Extensions and Old Building. Ventilating fans in the Capitol, number of, 13. Ventilation, see under Extensions and Old Building. Vermont marble, 628, 660, 819. Vermont Marble Company, 397. Vernet, Horace, 694. Verplanck, Gulian C., Representative from New York, 341: Debates, 293; Report by, 1045. Vice-Presidents of United States, 155, 788, 956. busts of, 746. Vest, George G., Senator from Missouri: Debates, 941, 942, 946, 956, 957, 958, 961, 962, 964, 965, 1211, 1214, 1215, 1216, 1218, 1219, 1220, 123S, 1239, 1242, 1243, 1244, 1246, 1249, 1250, 1253, 1254, 1255, 1259; Report by, 965. Vinton, Samuel F., Representative from Ohio: Debates, 444, 1050. Virginia, cession of district 10 miles square by, 5, 7. President’s message concerning, 7, 10. President’s proclamations concerning, 7, 9. retrocession to by the United States, 11. Virginia, donations by, 96, 150, 184, 187, 188, 229, 230. Von Muller, F., 816, 840. Voorhees, Daniel W., Senator from Indiana, 1266, 1267; Debates, 958, 961, 962, 963, 1205, 1206, 1236; Report by, 372. W. Wade, Major, 556. Wade, Benjamin F., Senator from Ohio: Debate, 683, 720, 1063. Wad worth, Brigadier-General, 812. Wadsworth, Colonel, 20. Wadsworth, William H., Representative from Kentucky: Debates, 365. Wages of labor in Washington, from 1793 to 1818, 232, 233. - from 1818 and 1820, 240. in 1821, 247. Walker, Gen. Duncan S., 29, 448. Walker, George, 76. Walker, Isaac P., Senator from Wisconsin: De- bates, 351. Walker, James, 706, 816. Wallace, Daniel, Representative from South Carolina, 559; Debates, 482, 483, 484, 485, 486, 487, 489. Wallace, William A., Senator from Pennsylvania: Debates, 928. Wallach, Richard, 494, 1077. Walsh, Philip F., Representative from Maryland: Bill reported by, 1164. Walsh, Thomas Yates, Representative from Maryland: Debates, 459, 489. Walter, Thomas U., 12, 342, 346, 347, 348, 358, 361, 366, 405, 449, 461, 464, 468, 475, 479, 482, 493, 494, 516, 517, 518, 520, 531, 551, 552, 558, 559, 570, 571, 575, 578, 580, 581, 582, 583, 588, 594, 602, 607, 611, 621, 635, 636, 638, 639, 641, 754, 793, 794, 799, 807, 808, 811, 814, 820, 822, 826, 830, 833, 838, 841, 842, 961, 962, 963, 990, 991, 992, 993, 998, 999, 1000, 1003, 1021, 1022, 1023, 1024, 1026, 1072, 1073, 1074, 1210, 1231, 1232, 1264, 1265, 1271, 1272, 1273, 1274, 1277, 1278, 1279, 1283. War, Acting Secretary of, 789. War Department, 585, 787, 788, 790, 791, 793, 794, 795, 796, 799, 800, 802, 803, 804, 805, 806, 807, 808, 815, 820, 821, 1015. War Department building, referred to, 41. War of 1812, destruction of Capitol and other buildings in, 171, 172, 173. War, Secretary of, 285, 287, 310, 320, 408, 410, 421, 422, 424, 585, 587, 591, 592, 594, 595, 610, 612, 613, 616, 618, 623, 627, 631, 635, 638, 642, 644, 645, 648, 650, 651, 656, 659, 663, 664, 665, 669, 673, 677, 702, 704, 705, 709, 740, 742, 743, 744, 754, 772, 784, 785, 786, 787, 789, 790, 791, 793, 797, 798, 799, 805, 806, 807, 815, 997, 998, 999, 1002, 1003, 1004, 1005, 1007, 1010, 1012, 1014,1020, 1021, 1019, 1052. Ward, L. F., 1186, 1189. Waring, George E., 965, 970. Wash basins in the Capitol, number of, 13. Washburne, Elihu B., Representative from Illi- nois: Debates, 356, 357, 358, 362, 363, 364, 365, 644, 709, 725, 728, 804, 835, 860, 861, 862, 1028. Washburn, Israel, jr., Representative from Maine: Debates, 709, 725, 727, 728; Report by, 727. Washington and Georgetown Railroad Company, 1073, 1075, 1076, 1084, 1087, 1144. Washington Aqueduct, 609. Washington Canal, 330, 1042, 1043, 1044. Washington City, plan of, 10, 11, 14, 101. Washington Evening Star, 1231. Washington, invasion of by the British, 171, 172, 173. Washington, George, 7, 9, 10, 11, 29, 182, 446, 1273; Address of, 10. elm tree reputed to have been planted by, 1189. Greenough’s statue of, 317, 318, 325, 336, 338, 339, 428, 976. removed from grounds, 1162. letters from, 15, 18, 20, 22, 24, 27, 28, 38, 76, 77. letters to, 14, 25, 33, 35, 36, 37, 38. messages of, 7, 10, 11, 38. proclamations of, 10. Washington, George C., Representative from Maryland, 312, 313; report by, 311. 1312 INDEX. Washington Monument, 499, 1257. Water supply of the Capitol and grounds, 210, 224, 311, 312, 313, 316, 325, 327, 329, 330, 331, 583, 609, 686, 687, 689, 859, 1038, 1040, 1041 etseq., 1045 et seq., 1048, 1049, 1050, 1051. Watmough, John G., Representative from Penn- sylvania: Debates, 1050. Watts, R., jr., 341. Wax, preservation of pictures with, 302. Wayne, James M., Representative from Georgia: Debates, 318. Webster, Daniel, 697; Representative from New Hampshire: Debates, 181, 183, 184, 1032, 1033; motion by, 1032; Secretary of State, 448. Sen- ator from Massachusetts: Debates, 298. Weems, John C., Representative from Maryland: Debates, 301. Wellborn, Olin, Representative from Texas: De- bates, 1281. Weller, John B,, Senator from California: De- bates, 540, 542. Wendell, C., 591, 592, 611, 612, 615, 616. Westminster, paintings in palace at, 735. Westward-Ho! (painting), 810, 816. Wetherill, Dr. Charles M., 841, 842, 844, 845. Wever, Mr., 325. Wheeler, John, Representative from New York: Debates, 649. Whispering galleries, 305. Whitcomb, James, Senator from Indiana: De- bates, 521. White, Albert S., Representative from Indiana: Debates, 821. • White, Alexander, 36, 38, 43, 62, 79, 80, 82, 85, 86, 94, 97, 101. White, Hugh, Representative from New York: Debates, 439, 440. White, John D., Representative from Kentucky: Amendment offered by, 901, 904; debates, 894, 895, 898, 899, 900, 901, 902, 903, 904, 1237. Whitney house, 1088. Whitney’s block. District of Columbia, 1108. Whittlesey, Elisha, 482; Representative from Ohio: Debates, 278, 279. Whittlesey, Frederick, Representative from New Y’ork: Debates, 317, 326. Wickliffe, Charles A., Representative from Ken- tucky: Debates, 269, 290, 291, 293, 299, 300, 805, 806. Weir, Robert, 335. Wilcox, John A. , Representative from Mississippi: Debates, 478. Wilde, Richard Henry, Representative from Georgia: Debates, 1033. Wilkes, exploring expedition of 1842, 1186. Wilkins, William, 421, 422., Willey, Waitman T., Senator from West Virginia: Debates, 853. Williams, John, Representative from New York: Debates, 49, 54, 82. Williams, Colonel, 27. Williams, David R., Representative from South Carolina: Debates, 119, 124, 126, 127, 138, 139. Williams, John Sharpe, Representative from Miss- issippi: Debates, 389. Williams, Robert, Representative from North Carolina: Debates, 82. Williamson, Collin, 26, 27, 29, 30, 33. Wilson, Benjamin, Representative from West Virginia: Amendment offered by, 1218; Debates, 1218. Wilson, Henry, Senator from Massachusetts: Debates, 355, 801, 1059, 1147. Wilson, James, Representative from Iowa: De- bates, 893, 1164. Wilson, James F., Representative from Iowa: Debates, 1029. Windom, William, Representative from Min- nesota: Debates, 1081; Senator from Min- nesota: Bill reported by, 1172; Debates, 1204, 1205, 1206. Windows in the Capitol, number of, 13. Wirt, William, 285. Witte, William H., Representative from Pennsyl- vania: Debates, 993. Wolcott, Oliver, 76, 78, 84, 87, 1189. Wood, Fernando, Representative from New Y’ork: Amendment offered by, 919, 921; Debates, 868, 908, 909, 912, 914, 919, 921. Wood, Silas, Representative from New Y’ork, 236; Debates, 301, 1116, 1117; Report by, 237, 238. Woodbridge, Prof. S. H., 971, 972, 973, 987. Wooden passageway, Old Building, between wings, 99. Woods, Elliott, 12, ;i3, 403, 405, 406, 407, 979, 987, 988, 1271, 1272, 1274. Woods, John, Representative from Ohio: Debates, 299. Woodward, Joseph A., Representative from South Carolina: Debates, 438, 439, 440, 469, 470, 485. Workmen and mechanics, employment of, 14, 16, 20 , 21 , 22 . Workmen and mechanics suffer from stoppage of work on Extensions in 1851, 452, 454, 459, 461, 462, 468, 488, 489, 492, 493, 498, 522, 534, 541, 542, 544, 545, 546, 547, 548. Wren, Sir Christopher, 474, 670. Wright, Joseph A., Representative from Indiana: Debates, 806, 807, 808. Wright, Robert, Representative from Maryland: Debates, 181, 184, 185, 1032; Motions by, 1032, 1033; Senator from Maryland: Debates, 100. Y. Yates, Richard, Senator from Illinois: Debates, 1091, 1092, 1100. Y’ellow Tavern, 1190. Y’orktown, Surrender at, painting, 775. Young, Brigham, tabernacle of, 917. Young, Casey, Representative from Tennessee: Debates, 907, 908, 909, 910, 912, 919, 920, 921, 922, 923, 924; Report by, 907. Young, Mr., 801. . . — * Y CENTER LIBRARY llllllllllllllllllllllllllillilillliillliliiiilii GETTY CENTER LIBRARY n r '■ ts T' :7 .'.Y/. ^