Number: 98-758
Title: Pages of the United States Congress: Selection, Duties, and Program Administration
Authors: Mildred Amer, Government and Finance Division 
Abstract: For more than 175 years, messengers known as pages have served the United States Congress. Currently, approximately 100 young men and women from across the nation serve as pages at any given time. Pages must be high school juniors and at least 16 years of age. Several incumbent and former Members of Congress as well as other prominent Americans have served as congressional pages. Senator Daniel Webster appointed the first Senate page in 1829. The first House pages began their service in 1842. Women were first appointed as pages in 1971. Pages are appointed and sponsored by a Representative or Senator for one academic semester of the school year, or a summer session. The right to appoint pages rotates among Members pursuant to criteria set by the respective chamber leadership. Academic standing is one of the most important criteria used in the final selection of pages. Prospective pages are advised to contact their Senators or Representative to request consideration for a page appointment.
Pages: 3
Date: May 21, 2008