These are items which are not displayed in our permanent exhibit but are offered here for online viewing.

A historic meeting was held during the Washington, D.C. Crusade that took place January 13 to February 17, 1952. In an unprecedented move, permission for the use of the Capitol steps and plaza was obtained to hold a meeting on February 3rd, 1952. This was the first evangelistic service ever to be conducted from the Capitol steps. Government officials from every department were most cooperative in making the meeting possible. It was during this meeting on the Capitol steps that Billy Graham urged Congress to request that the President to set aside a national day of prayer. Within two days, the legislation had been introduced in the House of Representatives. It was passed after committee action by a unanimous vote.

This month’s highlighted archive items are from this event. Showcased is a square 78 RPM phonograph record depicting Billy Graham’s historic meeting on the steps of the United States Capitol building in 1952. It was produced by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and sent to those on the BGEA mailing list, thanking them for their prayers and support.