William Thornton

Biography

William Thornton was a distinguished architect whose designs significantly influenced the architectural landscape of early America. His most notable achievement was serving as the first architect of the United States Capitol, where his visionary design established the building's iconic neoclassical character and contributed to the symbolic representation of American democracy.

Thornton's architectural legacy extends beyond the Capitol to numerous other important structures and his influential role in shaping American architectural aesthetics. He was interred in Congressional Cemetery, reflecting the esteem in which he was held for his contributions to the nation's cultural and architectural heritage.