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Did You Know? 12 Quirky Facts About US Capitols
State capitols are more than just seats of government – they’re treasure troves of fascinating history, unique architecture, and surprising quirks. From hidden rooms to unusual decorations, these landmarks hold countless intriguing stories. Here are twelve remarkable facts about U.S. state capitols that might surprise even the most knowledgeable history buffs.
1. The Alaska State Capitol’s Missing Dome
Unlike most state capitols, Alaska’s capitol building in Juneau lacks the traditional dome. Built in 1931 as a federal courthouse, it’s one of only eleven state capitols without this architectural feature. The simple six-story concrete building reflects the territory’s status as a federal outpost when it was constructed, well before Alaska achieved statehood in 1959.
2. Nebraska’s Unicameral Marvel
The Nebraska State Capitol in Lincoln houses the nation’s only unicameral (single-chamber) state legislature. This unique system, implemented in 1937, makes Nebraska’s capitol operations distinctly different from all other states. The building itself stands 400 feet tall, making it the second-tallest U.S. state capitol.
3. Louisiana’s Capitol Tragedy
The Louisiana State Capitol in Baton Rouge bears bullet marks from a 1935 assassination. The marks remain visible in the marble corridor where Governor Huey Long was shot. The building, completed in 1932, is also the tallest state capitol at 450 feet.
4. Texas Capitol’s Superior Size
The Texas State Capitol in Austin was built to be deliberately larger than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. At 308,000 square feet, it’s 14 feet taller than its federal counterpart. The builders used sunset red granite from nearby Marble Falls, giving it a distinctive pink hue.
5. Hawaii’s Royal Heritage
The Hawaii State Capitol in Honolulu is the only state capitol that was once a royal palace. Iolani Palace, which served as the capitol until 1969, was the residence of the Hawaiian monarchy until 1893. It remains the only royal palace on U.S. soil.
6. Wisconsin’s Forward-Thinking Design
The Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison features a unique “Forward” statue atop its dome. The building contains the only granite dome in any U.S. state capitol, weighing in at over 3.5 million pounds. The structure is also designed to be exactly one foot shorter than the U.S. Capitol out of respect.
7. Colorado’s Mile-High Marker
The Colorado State Capitol in Denver features three different mile-high markers on its steps, each claiming to mark exactly 5,280 feet above sea level. Modern GPS technology finally determined the correct step in 2003, and it was marked with an official brass cap.
8. Utah’s Beehive Obsession
The Utah State Capitol in Salt Lake City incorporates beehive symbols throughout its architecture and decoration. This reflects Utah’s state symbol of industry and cooperation. Over 40 beehive representations can be found throughout the building, from doorknobs to ceiling decorations.
9. New Mexico’s Unique Art Collection
The New Mexico State Capitol in Santa Fe, known as the “Roundhouse,” houses one of the largest collections of contemporary New Mexican art in the state. The building’s circular design is inspired by the Zia Sun Symbol and is the only round state capitol in the United States.
10. Oregon’s Golden Pioneer
The Oregon State Capitol in Salem is topped by a distinctive gold-leafed pioneer statue. The current building is actually the third capitol, as the previous two were destroyed by fires in 1855 and 1935. The golden pioneer stands 22 feet tall and weighs 8.5 tons.
11. Kentucky’s Time Capsule Mystery
The Kentucky State Capitol in Frankfort contains a time capsule from 1910 that’s never been opened. Located in the cornerstone, its contents remain a mystery, as the original documentation of what was placed inside has been lost to history.
12. Arkansas’s Diamond Legacy
The Arkansas State Capitol in Little Rock features light fixtures adorned with Arkansas diamonds. These gems were discovered in Crater of Diamonds State Park, the only public diamond mine in the United States. The building took 18 years to complete, from 1899 to 1917.
Conclusion
From hidden time capsules to bullet-marked corridors, these twelve fascinating facts demonstrate that state capitols are far more than just government buildings. Each structure tells unique stories of state history, architectural innovation, and cultural significance. These landmarks continue to serve not only as centers of government but also as repositories of American history and state pride, each with its own distinctive character and quirks that make it special.