Monday, July 4, 2016

Happy Fourth of July!

Happy Fourth of July from all of us here in the Key Room! We are all dressed up in our reds, whites, and blues and we're excited to watch the fireworks this evening. In keeping with the American theme, I've decided to talk about one of our keys that has special significance to American history.

In 1936 we received a key to the Capitol Building in Washington D.C. from David Lynn, the Capitol architect from 1923 to 1954. Construction of the Capitol began in 1793 after George Washington laid the cornerstone on the southeast portion of the foundation. After the ceremony, all those present celebrated the American way, with a barbeque.

The capitol is much more than a building that houses the legislative branch of the American government, it is a symbol of the American people and their government. Through the years, the Capitol has been expanded as the United States expanded westward. As the Capitol changed shape and size, the large dome on top became an international icon representing democracy, even finding itself on the back of the 50 dollar bill.

The Capitol Building is an important monument that represents more than the US government. It represents American Ideals. Since the Capitol Building hosted the US Congress for the first time in the year 1800, American government has changed substantially. Definitions of important words have changed as new laws replace the old. However, there are a few things that will always remain: the pride Americans have in their ideals, and our love of barbeques.

Have fun today and stay safe!

Until next time,
Natalie