When Congress Had Its Own Dormitory

Source: House.gov

“Until about 50 years ago, it was not uncommon for legislators to bunk under the same roof. In the 19th century, they often stayed in boarding houses; in the 20th century, they shifted to long-stay hotels. For a time, the House of Representatives owned the Hotel Congressional, a seven-story pile erected in 1948 on New Jersey Ave. SE across from the Cannon Building. (It was demolished in 2002.) Living in the same building provided ample opportunities to hang out with one another over a meal or drinks. As a result, elected officials developed friendships and trust that facilitated dealmaking between members of different political parties….” (Read more)