Nevada State Capitol

In the heart of Carson City, Nevada, stands a testament to the state's rich history and pioneering spirit—the Nevada State Capitol. This iconic building, located at 101 North Carson Street, is a must-visit for anyone eager to delve into the Silver State's storied past. Constructed between 1869 and 1871, the Capitol is a splendid example of Neoclassical Italianate architecture, a style that exudes both grandeur and elegance.

The Birth of a Capitol

The story of the Nevada State Capitol begins with Abraham Curry, the founder of Carson City. Curry had the foresight to reserve a 10-acre plot at the town's center for the future state capitol. This visionary act ensured that when the time came to construct the building, it would be perfectly situated in the heart of the city. Mark Twain, in his book Roughing It, described the site in 1861 as a large, unfenced, level vacancy, useful for public auctions, horse trades, and mass meetings.

The Nevada Legislature passed an act in 1869 to provide for the erection of the State Capitol, which was signed into law by Governor Henry G. Blasdel. The Board of Capitol Commissioners received bids ranging from $84,000 to $160,000, ultimately selecting the lowest bid from Peter Cavanaugh and Son of Carson City. Despite efforts to reduce costs, including obtaining sandstone from the Nevada State Prison quarry free of charge, the construction costs ballooned to approximately $170,000, surpassing even the highest bid.

The cornerstone of the Capitol was laid on June 9, 1870, with a brass box serving as a time capsule deposited within it. This cornerstone, a solid block of sandstone, was laid atop blocks containing the capsule. The building was completed by May 1, 1871, just in time for the fourth session of the state legislature to convene in the still-incomplete structure.

Architectural Marvel

The original building was cruciform in design, with a central rectangle measuring 76 feet wide by 85 feet deep. It featured two wings, each 35 feet wide by 52 feet deep. The windows were adorned with 26-ounce French crystal panes, and the floors and wainscoting were crafted from Alaskan marble, shipped to San Francisco in massive 20-ton blocks before being cut and polished for installation.

The first floor housed major offices at each corner, connected by central halls, while the second floor's wings contained the legislative chambers for the Assembly and the Senate. An octagonal dome topped with a cupola allowed light to flood the second story. In 1906, an octagonal annex was added to the rear of the Capitol to accommodate the State Library. By the early 20th century, the legislature had outgrown the Capitol, leading to the construction of northern and southern legislative wing-annexes, designed by prominent Nevada architect Frederic DeLongchamps. These additions, completed in time for the 1915 session, provided additional office space and expanded legislative chambers.

A Walk Through History

As you step inside the Nevada State Capitol, you're greeted by a painted frieze in the hallways of the first floor, celebrating Nevada's industrial heritage. This artistic tribute lists agricultural products and minerals found in Nevada mines, highlighting the state's economic backbone. One of the most intriguing features is the vault door in the office of the Secretary of State of Nevada, painted with a scenic depiction of Lake Tahoe.

Portraits of all the governors of Nevada adorn the walls throughout the building, offering a visual journey through the state's political history. Near the office of the Nevada Commission for Women, the Silver State Sisters display honors approximately 100 individuals, mostly women, who have made significant contributions to Nevada's history. This exhibit includes notable figures such as Barbara Vucanovich, Bernice Mathews, and Wild Horse Annie, as well as groups of women like the first non-segregated showgirls at the Moulin Rouge Hotel.

The Capitol also houses artifacts of Nevada's history, including Paiute crafts and a section of the rope used to hang the man convicted of murdering folk heroine Julia Bulette. These historical exhibits provide a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the state's cultural and social evolution.

Enduring Legacy

For over 50 years, the Nevada State Capitol was the hub of all three branches of the state government. The Supreme Court met here until 1937, when it moved to an adjacent building, and the Nevada Legislature convened in the Capitol until 1971, when it relocated to the new Legislative Building just south of the Capitol. Every Nevada governor, except the first, has had his office in this historic building. Today, the Capitol continues to serve the Governor and houses historical exhibits on the second floor.

In conclusion, the Nevada State Capitol is not just a building; it's a symbol of Nevada's resilience, ingenuity, and rich history. Its walls echo the stories of the past, from the vision of Abraham Curry to the legislative debates that shaped the state's future. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to the Nevada State Capitol is an unforgettable journey through time, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of the Silver State.