Minnesota State Capitol

Minnesota State Capitol is the seat of government for the U.S. state of Minnesota, housing the Minnesota Legislature, the Office of the Governor of Minnesota, and the Minnesota Supreme Court. Located in the capital city of Saint Paul, the building is a prominent example of Beaux-Arts architecture designed by renowned architect Cass Gilbert. It was constructed between 1896 and 1905, replacing an earlier capitol building that had become inadequate for the state's growing needs, and stands as a National Historic Landmark recognized for its architectural and historical significance.

History

The push for a new statehouse began in the 1890s, as the Second Minnesota State Capitol, completed in 1883, was already deemed too small and suffered from structural issues. A Capitol Commission was established, and after a controversial selection process, the commission chose the design of New York architect Cass Gilbert in 1895, making him the first American-born architect selected for a state capitol. Construction by the Butler-Ryan Company began in 1896 on the site of the former Charles H. Bigelow residence. The building was officially dedicated on January 2, 1905, with ceremonies attended by President Theodore Roosevelt and noted orator William Jennings Bryan. Throughout the 20th century, it witnessed significant political events, including the inaugurations of governors like Harold Stassen and Jesse Ventura, and served as a backdrop for protests and celebrations, such as those following the Minnesota Twins 1991 World Series victory.

Architecture and design

The building is a masterwork of the Beaux-Arts style, characterized by its symmetry, grandeur, and classical references. Gilbert was influenced by other great capitol domes, including Saint Peter's Basilica in Vatican City and the United States Capitol, but created a distinct design. The exterior is faced with Georgia marble and Minnesota granite, and is dominated by a magnificent dome sheathed in white marble and topped by a gold leaf-covered quadriga sculpture, "The Progress of the State." The facade features a massive portico with Corinthian columns and sculptural groups by artists like Daniel Chester French and Augustus Saint-Gaudens.

Interior features

The interior is renowned for its lavish use of marble, scagliola, and intricate artwork. The rotunda, rising 142 feet to the interior apex of the dome, is a breathtaking space with a floor made of Travertine and walls of Italian marble. It features massive murals by artists such as Edward Simmons and John La Farge, depicting allegorical scenes of Minnesota's history and virtues. The Minnesota Supreme Court courtroom is paneled in hand-carved quarter sawn oak, while the House of Representatives and Senate chambers are adorned with stained glass, ornate plasterwork, and paintings. Notable artworks include the mural "The Treaty of Traverse des Sioux" by Francis Davis Millet.

Grounds and monuments

The capitol grounds, designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, span several acres and feature numerous monuments and memorials. Key monuments include the Minnesota Memorial to the Living for World War I veterans, the Minnesota Woman Suffrage Memorial, and statues of prominent figures like Governor John A. Johnson and Floyd B. Olson. The Minnesota Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Minnesota Korean War Memorial are also located on the grounds. The approach to the building along Aurora Avenue and University Avenue provides a grand, ceremonial vista.

Restoration and preservation

By the late 20th century, the building suffered from extensive deterioration, including cracking marble, leaking roofs, and outdated mechanical systems. A major comprehensive restoration project, led by the Minnesota Department of Administration and architects from HGA Architects and Engineers, began in 2013. The $310 million project meticulously repaired the exterior marble, restored original artwork and finishes, updated infrastructure for safety and accessibility, and returned many spaces to Cass Gilbert's original vision. The restored capitol reopened in 2017, ensuring its preservation for future generations while maintaining its status as a working seat of government and a public museum of art and history. Category:State capitols in the United States Category:Buildings and structures in Saint Paul, Minnesota Category:National Historic Landmarks in Minnesota