Doorkeeper of the United States House of Representatives
An appointed officer of the United States House of Representatives from 1789 until 1995, the Doorkeeper of the United States House of Representatives was chosen by a resolution at the opening of each United States Congress. The Office of the Doorkeeper was based on precedent from the Continental Congresses. Without debate, the First Federal Congress created the Doorkeeper's position by resolution on April 2, 1789. The Doorkeeper controlled access to the House Chamber and eventually oversaw the press in the gallery.
The office of Doorkeeper was abolished during the 104th Congress. Thirty-three Doorkeepers served until the position was abolished and the office's duties were divided among the Sergeant at Arms, the Clerk of the House, and the newly created Chief Administrative Officer.Two Doorkeepers also served as members of the United States House of Representatives either prior to or after their service as a House officer.
