Massachusetts State House

The Massachusetts State House, a beacon of history and governance, stands proudly atop Beacon Hill, overlooking the Boston Common. This architectural gem, completed in 1798, is not just a seat of government but a testament to the rich history and evolving story of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Designed by the renowned architect Charles Bulfinch, the State House is a masterpiece of Federal architecture and continues to serve as a symbol of the state's heritage and aspirations.

The Historical Significance of the Massachusetts State House

The Massachusetts State House was built on land once owned by John Hancock, the first elected governor of Massachusetts. The cornerstone of this iconic building was laid on July 4, 1795, in a ceremony presided over by Paul Revere, then Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts. The building was completed in January 1798, at a cost that far exceeded its original budget, reflecting the ambition and grandeur of the project.

Before the construction of the current State House, the government of Massachusetts operated from the Old State House on Washington Street. The new State House was designed to reflect the burgeoning importance and sophistication of the Commonwealth. Charles Bulfinch drew inspiration from two prominent buildings in London: William Chambers's Somerset House and James Wyatt's Pantheon. The result was a structure that exudes elegance and authority, with its red-brick façade, white columns, and prominent golden dome.

The Iconic Golden Dome

One of the most striking features of the Massachusetts State House is its golden dome. Originally made of wood and prone to leaking, the dome was covered with copper by Paul Revere's Revere Copper Company in 1802. The dome has undergone several transformations over the years, being painted and re-gilded multiple times. During World War II, it was painted gray to prevent it from reflecting light during blackouts, but it was re-gilded in 1969 and again in 1997, now gleaming with 23-karat gold leaf. The dome is topped with a gilded wooden pine cone, symbolizing the significance of the lumber industry to early Massachusetts and the state of Maine, which was part of the Commonwealth when the building was completed.

Exploring the Grounds and Statuary

The grounds of the Massachusetts State House are adorned with statues that pay homage to significant figures in American history. An equestrian statue of General Joseph Hooker stands prominently in front of the building, flanked by statues of Daniel Webster, educator Horace Mann, and former U.S. President John F. Kennedy. Statues of Anne Hutchinson and Mary Dyer, both key figures in the history of religious freedom, can be found on the lawns below the east and west wings.

Inside the Massachusetts State House

Stepping inside the Massachusetts State House is like walking through the pages of history. The original red-brick Bulfinch building houses the Governor's offices and the Massachusetts Senate, which occupies the former House of Representatives Chamber under the dome. The Massachusetts House of Representatives now meets in a chamber on the west side of the Brigham addition, under the watchful eye of the Sacred Cod, a symbol of the importance of the fishing industry to the early Massachusetts economy.

The interior of the State House is adorned with murals by Albert Herter and Edward Brodney, depicting scenes from Massachusetts's rich history. Brodney's murals, which won a competition sponsored by the Works Progress Administration in 1936, are particularly notable for their focus on military art featuring women as subjects—a rarity at the time.

Doric Hall and Memorial Hall

A grand staircase leads from Beacon Street to Doric Hall, the entrance to the State House. The main doors of Doric Hall are only opened on three special occasions: when the President of the United States or a foreign head of state visits, when the Governor exits the building on their last day in office, and when a regimental flag is returned from battle. Memorial Hall, also known as the Hall of Flags, is located on the second floor and displays regimental flags from various wars, with a stained glass skylight featuring the seals of the original thirteen colonies.

Offices and Operations

The Massachusetts State House is not just a historical monument; it is a bustling center of government operations. It houses the primary offices of the Commonwealth's constitutional officers, including the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Treasurer, and Auditor. The majority of the office space is allocated to the Legislature, with each member of the House and Senate assigned their own office. The building also hosts a Press Gallery, where reporters from various news outlets work, and a suite of rooms dedicated to veterans' organizations.

The Hub of the Solar System

Boston's nickname, The Hub of the Universe, originates from a remark by Oliver Wendell Holmes in his 1858 book The Autocrat of the Breakfast-Table. He referred to the State House as the Hub of the Solar System, a testament to its central role in the life and identity of the city and the Commonwealth. This enduring nickname reflects the State House's significance as a symbol of governance, history, and community.

In conclusion, the Massachusetts State House is more than just a building; it is a living monument to the history, culture, and governance of Massachusetts. Its grand architecture, rich history, and ongoing role in the state's government make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the story of Massachusetts and the United States.