Missouri State Capitol

Missouri State Capitol. The seat of government for the U.S. state of Missouri, this monumental structure houses the Missouri General Assembly and the offices of the Governor of Missouri. Located in the state capital of Jefferson City overlooking the Missouri River, the building is the third to serve this purpose since statehood. Completed in 1917, it is renowned for its architectural grandeur, extensive art collection, and historical significance.

History

Following the destruction by fire of the second state capitol in 1911, the state commissioned a new building on a bluff site donated by local citizens. The Missouri General Assembly selected the New York architectural firm of Tracy and Swartwout to design the new capitol, with construction beginning in 1913. The building was completed in 1917 at a cost of approximately $4.2 million, with the formal dedication occurring in 1924. Throughout the 20th century, it served as the backdrop for significant political events, including the special legislative sessions during the Great Depression and the tenure of notable governors like Lloyd C. Stark and Warren E. Hearnes. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1969.

Architecture

Designed in the Neoclassical style, the building's form is a symmetrical rectangle dominated by a massive central dome inspired by the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C.. The exterior is faced with Indiana limestone and features a monumental portico with Corinthian columns. The dome, rising 262 feet, is topped by a bronze statue of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, created by sculptor Adolph Alexander Weinman. Prominent architectural firms involved in later additions and restorations include Wischmeyer Architects and Mackey Mitchell Architects. The design reflects the City Beautiful movement ideals prevalent in early 20th-century American public architecture.

Interior features

The interior is celebrated for its extensive mural cycles and statuary depicting Missouri's history and resources. The first-floor rotunda features the "Social History of Missouri" mural by Thomas Hart Benton, a controversial masterpiece completed in 1936. The third-floor rotunda is adorned with murals by Frank Brangwyn illustrating the state's industrial themes. Other significant artworks include the "Lewis and Clark" statue by James Earle Fraser and the "Fountain of the Centaurs" by Karl Bitter. The Missouri State Museum, operated by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, occupies much of the first floor. The legislative chambers, such as the House and Senate, are ornate spaces with stained glass, marble, and detailed woodwork.

Grounds and monuments

The capitol grounds, designed by landscape architect George Kessler, span approximately three acres and feature numerous monuments and memorials. These include the Missouri State Capitol Fire Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and statues honoring figures like Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. The "Fountain of the Dolphins" and the "Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial" are also located on the grounds. The site offers panoramic views of the Missouri River and the city below. The grounds are maintained by the Missouri Department of Conservation and serve as a public park.

Functions and operations

As the active seat of state government, the building houses the bicameral Missouri General Assembly, comprising the House of Representatives and the Missouri Senate. It also contains the offices of the Governor of Missouri, Lieutenant Governor of Missouri, and other executive officials like the Secretary of State of Missouri. The Missouri Supreme Court historically met here before moving to the adjacent Supreme Court Building. Security is managed by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and daily operations are overseen by the Commission on the Capitol. Public tours are administered by the Missouri State Museum.

Category:State capitols in the United States Category:Government buildings in Missouri Category:National Register of Historic Places in Missouri