What Is the Iowa State Capitol?
It’s the Iowa State Capitol building!
What Makes It Historical?
In 1857, under the leadership of James C. Jordan, the capital of Iowa moved west to a much more central location: old Fort Des Moines, later shortened to just Des Moines! It would be 13 years before the Capitol commission would give final approval to a location, budget, and architects for the state’s capitol building, though! Executing the designs of John C. Cochrane and Alfred H. Piquenard, the cornerstone went in on November 23, 1871, but had to be laid a second time in 1873 because the stone had deteriorated!
Likewise, both original architects either resigned or died before the capitol could be completed, leaving their assistants, Mifflin Bell and W.F. Hackney, to finish the job! About a million bucks over its $1.5 million budget, Iowa’s capitol building was dedicated on January 17, 1884 but not officially completed for another two years. It’s noteworthy for its 23-carat gold leafing covering the main dome and its four-story Victorian law library!
How Can I #HelpTheHelpers?
- Become a member of the Des Moines Historical Society!
- Donate to the Des Moines Historical Society!
- Be a responsible visitor! Please respect the signs and pathways, and treat all structures and artifacts with respect. They’ve endured a lot to survive into the present. They’ll need our help to make it into the future!
How Do I Get There?
1007 E Grand Ave
Des Moines, IA 50319
(Take Me There!)
When Should I Visit?
The capitol is open to visitors Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and on Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM!