East Front

In 1861 Lincoln returned to the Capitol as President-elect, meeting with both houses of Congress and U.S. Supreme Court justices. In March he took the oath of office on this side of the building under an unfinished dome. The dome visitors see today was completed on December 2, 1863.

During his presidency, Lincoln visited the Capitol periodically to attend lectures, meetings, and religious services. He also spent time in the so-called "Presidents Room," where he signed legislation before Congress adjourned.

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