For more than two centuries, young people served as Pages in the U.S. House of Representatives and enjoyed an unparalleled opportunity to observe and participate in the legislative process in “the People’s House.” The expectations and experiences of House Pages, regardless of when they served, have been linked by certain commonalities—witnessing history, interacting with Representatives, and taking away lifelong inspiration to participate in civic life.
Eyewitnesses to both ordinary proceedings and monumental events, Pages played an important role in the House of Representatives from the earliest Congresses. Learn about the institution through the eyes of the young messengers who ran errands for Members and assisted in floor operations.
House Pages darted in and out among Capitol lawmakers, and in and out among the historic prints and artifacts of the House Collection. Explore everything from one proud Page’s cherished official pin to another tobogganing down Capitol Hill.
The daily activity in the House of Representatives threads the rich tapestry of its history. The history of the Pages and their service to the House is continued in the Historical Highlights section.
What are the origins of the House Page Program and how did technology and social change transform it? Learn more about two centuries of House Page history with an annotated bibliography of primary and secondary sources, including oral histories.
History, Art & Archives, U.S. House of Representatives, “History of the House Page Program,”https://history.house.gov/pagehistory/(February 16, 2026)
Office of the Historian
Office of Art and Archives
Attic, Thomas Jefferson Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
(202) 226-1300
