The National Statuary Hall is located in the United States Capitol Building in Washington D.C.. It was initially built as a second chamber for the House of Representatives, and was one of the earliest examples of Greek revival architecture in America.  In 1864, after 50 years of use by the House, Congress determined that the best use of the Hall was to honor great Americans by inviting each state to contribute two sculptures, created from bronze or marble, for permanent display.  

The entire collection now consists of 97statues, contributed by 50 states.  Forty-seven states have contributed two statues each, and three states are still eligible to donate one additional statue to the Capitol: Nevada, North Dakota, and New Mexico.  For more information about the collection, see:  http://aoc.gov/cc/art/nsh/index.cfm

The National Statuary Hall was created by law of Congress on July 2, 1864.....

"The President is hereby authorized to invite each and all States to provide and furnish statues, in marble or bronze, not exceeding two in number for each State, of deceased persons who have been citizens thereof, and illustrious for their historic renown or for distinguished civic or military services."

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