| Existing comment:
One of the first tourist destinations in the country, the US Capitol is an icon of American democracy. Visiting the Capitol has long been a part of the American experience, and returning home with some remembrance of the trip is part of that venerable tradition. These souvenirs date from the 1820s to the early 21st century. The oldest objects codify the Capitol as the seat of government, and the United States as an established nation with impressive sights to see. Most recent souvenirs focus on the image of the Capitol itself and the public declaration of the visitor's experience. |