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Supreme Court Building

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Facing the Capitol between Maryland Ave and E. Capitol St, NE, this white marble edifice is where the country's highest judicial body meets. Constructed between 1932 and 1935, it was designed by architect Cass Gilbert. Though the first session of the Supreme Court was convened on February 1, 1790, it took 145 years for it to find a permanent residence. During those years it met in the Royal Exchange Building in NY, in Independence Hall and later in City Hall in Philadelphia.

When the Federal government moved in 1800 to the permanent capital in Washington, Congress lent the Court space in the new Capitol building. In 1929, former President William Howard Taft, a former chief justice, persuaded Congress to end this arrangement and authorize a permanent home for the Court.

Now the court hears arguments 2 weeks of the month Monday through Wednesday 10am-noon and 1pm-3pm in early October through April. Exhibits and a film describing the court are presented on the ground floor.

Location: 1 First Street NE, Washington DC 20543 Telephone 202-479-3000

Other History nearby:
(Washington) African-American Civil War Memorial
(Waldorf) Afro-American Heritage Museum
(Alexandria) Alexandria Black History Resource Center
(Washington) Anacostia Museum
(Washington) Anderson House
(Arlington) Arlington National Cemetery

02/21 Coming to The Washington area
Dewey Beach PopFest Dewey Beach DE April12-13 Features three nights of showcase performances and two days of demo and mentoring sessions, tradeshow, and industry events.
National Cherry Blossom Festival Washington DC March20-April14 The nation’s greatest springtime celebration unites for four spectacular weekends including the Cherry Blossom Parade.
Pork in the Park BBQ Festival Salisbury MD April19-21 Follow your nose to the Pork in the Park BBQ Festival. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this Eastern Shore staple will be served up April 19-21st at Salisbury's WinterPlace Park.
Galena Dogwood Festival Galena MD May4 The annual Galena Dogwood Festival is will take place throughout Galena. The parade will have a War of 1812 theme.
Dover Days Festival Dover DE May3-5 As one of the longest running festivals in the state of Delaware, Dover Days dates back to 1933. What started as a garden tour staged by the Dover Garden Club, has now become an annual time to remember First State heritage with community spirit and an entertaining festival of family events.
Dover Days Festival Dover DE May3-5 You can claim Dover, Delaware, the capital city of the First State, as your state capital during the 80th anniversary celebration of the Dover Days Festival!.