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These mysterious columns in downtown DC used to guard the US Capitol

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In the heart of downtown D.C., three identical columns stand upright, seemingly in the middle of nowhere.

You would never guess these pillars used to stand guard over one of the District’s most important buildings — if you notice them at all.

In today’s episode of “Matt About Town,” WTOP’s Matt Kaufax heads to 15th Street and Constitution Avenue to learn the story behind the original U.S. Capitol pillars.

Hear “Matt About Town” first every Tuesday and Thursday on 103.5 FM!

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Where to find DC’s original tribute to George Washington

Before the Washington Monument, D.C. paid tribute to America’s founding father with an approximately 20-foot-tall statue in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood — approved way back in 1783. In Thursday’s episode of “Matt About Town,” WTOP’s Matt Kaufax heads to Washington Circle to the lesser-known, original sculpture of the nation's first president.
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