Congressman Tim Moore (R-NC) has revealed a clandestine community of underground tunnels beneath the U.S. Capitol, exposing what he calls “hidden passageways” which have remained largely unknown to the American public.
In a video posted to X, Moore lifted a flooring panel to disclose a steep staircase, which appeared to have graffiti on each the doorway and the steps.
In line with the congressman, this tunnel could have performed a task within the British invasion of 1814, when the Capitol was attacked and burned in the course of the Struggle of 1812.
Tim Moore:
This is among the neat issues concerning the U.S. Capitol, after all. This constructing—development began within the 1700s—has all kinds of little hidden passageways. You noticed I simply pulled this cowl up. You’ll be able to see, if we get the digital camera to come back over, however you may see there’s a passageway.These are lengthy stairs that was once right here however have been closed off. We’re simply off of what’s known as Statuary Corridor, which at one time was the precise Home chamber, and it’s proper exterior there. However that is simply an instance of a number of the little hidden secrets and techniques within the Capitol.
One of many issues we do once we carry tour teams in—if it’s a sufficiently small group, it’s a giant group of individuals, but when it’s a small group—we’ll truly take them down this corridor.
Consider it or not, my large self has truly gotten down, and extra importantly, out of this corridor. I’m not going to debut that once more immediately, however suffice to say, I’ve been in a position to dwell, inform about it, and get out of there.
It goes all the way in which right down to an outdated staircase, and I’m instructed—I can’t confirm this—however I’m instructed that this staircase, which opens to the surface if you happen to go down, was one of many staircases British troopers used after they breached the Capitol in the course of the Struggle of, I believe it was, 1814, after they truly attacked Washington.
Once they got here in, it was one of many stairs that British troopers truly got here up. There’s a variety of superb historical past on this constructing. When people come from North Carolina, we attempt to present issues that, if it’s a sufficiently small group and the timing is correct, you may truly let people go down there.
The youngsters appear to find it irresistible. Loads of older people—not a lot. But it surely’s simply one of many neat issues concerning the Capitol, in addition to the opposite day-to-day issues that people see on a regular basis. Thought I’d share that with you.
WATCH:
Include me to see one of many hidden secrets and techniques of the Capitol!
The Lincoln Room is one in all my favourite spots to carry guests — when President Lincoln was serving within the Home, he sat by the fireside on this room to learn his letters, however probably the most fascinating a part of the room is… pic.twitter.com/hp36jfQrk4
— Congressman Tim Moore (@RepTimMooreNC) May 9, 2025