History Overview

The Treasury Department and the Treasury building have a rich history. From the 1789 Act of Congress that established the department to the construction of its first Washington, D.C. building, this section will give you a valuable insight into Treasury's development and history.

 

Treasury Curator

The Office of the Curator at the U.S. Department of the Treasury guides the preservation of the historic buildings of the Department, cares for the cultural resources, and provides museum quality collection management of the fine and decorative arts collections, and the antique furniture of the Treasury Building.

 

History of the Treasury Department

Learn about the history of the Treasury Department, its organizational growth, the development of our functions, and stories of the Treasury bureaus.  (PDF version of history brochure)

 

The Treasury Building

Learn more about the historic Treasury Building located in Washington D.C. and find information on registering for tours.

 

The Collection

The Treasury Collection is composed of paintings, prints, photographs, furniture, decorative arts, sculpture, and architectural fragments. View samples, learn their history, and much more.

 

The Freedman's Bank Building

Learn about the Freedman's Bank which originally stood where the Treasury Annex was erected.