WASHINGTON, D.C. BUILDING SECURITY

December 10, 1877
Washington, D.C.

To the Senate and House of Representatives:

I transmit here with, for the information of Congress, a copy of the report of the commission appointed by me on the 27^th of September, 1877, to examine the several public buildings in this city and determine the nature and extent of their security against conflagrations and the measures to be taken to guard the buildings and their contents from destruction or damage by fire.

The records of the Government constitutes a most valuable collection for the country, whether we consider their pecuniary value or their historical importance; and it becomes my duty to call your attention to the means suggested for securing these valuable archives, as well as the buildings in which they are stored. The commissioners have performed their duties intelligently and faithfully. Their recommendations are fully concurred in by me and commended to the favorable consideration of Congress.