Wisconsin State Capitol

Wisconsin State Capitol
Name	Wisconsin State Capitol
Caption	The Wisconsin State Capitol, viewed from State Street
Location	Madison, Wisconsin
Coordinates	43, 4, 28, N...
Architect	George B. Post
Architectural style	Beaux-Arts
Built	1906–1917
Governing body	State of Wisconsin

Wisconsin State Capitol. The Wisconsin State Capitol, located in Madison, serves as the seat of government for the U.S. state of Wisconsin. Housing the Wisconsin State Legislature, the Wisconsin Supreme Court, and the office of the Governor of Wisconsin, the building is a prominent example of Beaux-Arts architecture and a National Historic Landmark. Situated on an isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, its distinctive dome dominates the Madison skyline and is a symbol of state governance.

History

The current structure is the third building to serve as the Wisconsin State Capitol on this site. The first capitol, a simple wooden frame building, was hastily constructed in 1837 following the designation of Madison as the territorial capital by James Duane Doty. After Wisconsin achieved statehood in 1848, a larger, classical revival capitol of limestone was completed in 1858. A devastating fire in 1904 destroyed much of that building, prompting the state to commission a grander replacement. Under the guidance of architects from the firm of George B. Post, construction began in 1906 and was completed in 1917, with the final cost approaching $7.25 million.

Architecture and design

Designed by architect George B. Post, the building is a masterpiece of the Beaux-Arts style, which emphasizes symmetry, grandeur, and classical references. The most striking feature is the large dome, which at 284 feet is the only granite dome in the United States and taller than the dome of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C.. The exterior is clad in Bethel White granite from Vermont, with a central rotunda flanked by four wings oriented to the cardinal directions. Each wing is topped with a smaller dome and is dedicated to one branch of state government, creating a balanced, cross-shaped plan.

Interior features

The interior is renowned for its extensive use of marble, mosaics, and decorative painting. The rotunda floor features a intricate terrazzo mosaic depicting the state's state symbols, including the badger. Soaring above is a magnificent mural by artist Edwin Blashfield entitled "Resources of Wisconsin." Throughout the building, over 40 types of marble from states like Wisconsin, Vermont, Georgia, and countries including France, Italy, and Greece are used. The Wisconsin Supreme Court courtroom and the Governor's Conference Room, known as the "War Room," are particularly noted for their elaborate woodwork and stained glass.

Grounds and monuments

The capitol grounds, designed by landscape architects including John Nolen, form a 13.5-acre park with numerous monuments commemorating Wisconsin's history. Key statues include "Forward," the state symbol, and works honoring Abraham Lincoln, Robert M. La Follette, and the Colonel Hans Christian Heg monument. The grounds also feature memorials to the Wisconsin veterans of the Spanish–American War and the Vietnam War. The site offers panoramic views of Lake Monona and the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus.

Government functions

The building is the active working center of Wisconsin's state government. The north wing houses the Wisconsin Supreme Court and the Wisconsin Court of Appeals. The east and west wings contain the chambers for the Wisconsin State Senate and the Wisconsin State Assembly, respectively. The south wing contains the office of the Governor of Wisconsin and other executive offices. Public galleries allow visitors to observe legislative sessions and court hearings, maintaining transparency in the democratic process.

Renovations and preservation

A major, comprehensive restoration project was undertaken from 1988 to 2002 to address structural issues, modernize mechanical systems, and restore the building's original aesthetic details. This project meticulously repaired the dome, cleaned the exterior granite, and refurbished historic interiors under the oversight of the Wisconsin Department of Administration. Ongoing preservation efforts are managed to maintain the building's historical integrity while accommodating the needs of a modern state government. The Wisconsin State Capitol was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2001.

Category:State capitols in the United States Category:Government buildings in Wisconsin Category:National Historic Landmarks in Wisconsin