Smithsonian Collects Capitol Riot Signs for National Museum of American History

The Smithsonian Institution is collecting banners and signs left by Donald Trump supporters during the January 6 assault on the U.S. Capitol. Curators from the National Museum of American History are gathering materials from the National Mall and outside the Capitol building, while items inside remain under federal jurisdiction for investigation. Director Anthea M. Hartig noted the historical parallel to the "Jefferson Banner" commemorating Thomas Jefferson's peaceful 1800 election transition. Curator Frank Blazich began collecting on January 7, and the museum's political and military history curators announced on January 8 they were recovering remaining messages. Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III stated that demonstrative gestures reveal democracy's fragility. The museum previously collected Black Lives Matter protest signs in summer 2020. The collected items will be added to the museum's collection, with future collaboration expected with government agencies and Congress to acquire interior materials.