Wisconsin State Capitol

In the heart of Madison, Wisconsin, standing proudly at the southwestern end of the Madison Isthmus, is the majestic Wisconsin State Capitol. This architectural marvel, completed in 1917, is a beacon of history, politics, and art, drawing visitors from around the globe to its grand halls and stunning rotunda.

The History of the Wisconsin State Capitol

The Wisconsin State Capitol has a storied past, serving as the seat of Wisconsin's government since the state’s early days. The current building is the fifth capitol to serve the state since the first territorial legislature convened in 1836. The first capitol, a modest wooden structure, was located in Belmont, but it was soon decided that Madison would be the permanent capital. The second capitol, built in Madison in 1837, was a small stone building that quickly became inadequate for the growing state's needs.

The third capitol, constructed between 1857 and 1869, was a grander structure with a dome inspired by the U.S. Capitol. However, a devastating fire in 1904 destroyed much of this building, leading to the construction of the current capitol. Designed by George B. Post & Sons, the present capitol was built over a decade, with construction beginning in 1906 and concluding in 1917. The building's design ensured that no side of the structure felt like the back, providing equal prominence to all surrounding businesses.

Architectural Splendor

The Wisconsin State Capitol is an architectural gem, standing 284 feet, 5 inches tall from the ground floor to the top of the dome. The exterior is constructed from Bethel white granite from Vermont, making it the largest granite dome in the world. Inside, visitors are greeted by a stunning array of 43 types of stone sourced from six countries and eight states, including marble from Tennessee, Missouri, Vermont, Georgia, New York, and Maryland, as well as granite and limestone from Wisconsin and Minnesota.

The rotunda ceiling features a breathtaking mural titled Resources of Wisconsin by Edwin Howland Blashfield. This mural, painted in pieces and assembled like a jigsaw puzzle, depicts a woman representing Wisconsin, surrounded by other women draped in an American flag and reaching for goods such as tobacco, lead, and fruits.

The Statue of Wisconsin

Atop the dome stands the iconic statue of Wisconsin, sculpted by Daniel Chester French in 1920. This 15-foot, 5-inch statue, often called the Golden Lady, is made of hollow bronze covered with gold leaf. The statue's left hand holds a globe surmounted by an eagle, while the right arm is outstretched, symbolizing the state's motto, Forward. The statue wears a helmet adorned with a badger, the state animal, adding to its symbolic significance.

Exploring the Capitol

Visitors to the Wisconsin State Capitol can embark on a journey through history, politics, and art. The building houses both chambers of the Wisconsin Legislature, the Wisconsin Supreme Court, and the Office of the Governor. Each of the four wings of the building is fronted by a pediment adorned with sculptures representing the activities within. For instance, the east wing, home to the Supreme Court, features a pediment titled Law, while the south wing, housing the State Senate, is adorned with Virtues and Traits of Character.

One of the highlights of a visit to the capitol is the observation deck, offering panoramic views of Madison and its surrounding lakes. The observation deck is open during the warmer months and provides a unique perspective on the city’s layout and natural beauty.

The Capitol's Restoration

From 1988 to 2002, the Wisconsin State Capitol underwent a comprehensive renovation and restoration project costing $158.8 million. The project aimed to modernize the building while preserving its original 1917 appearance. This included restoring original decorative stencils, uncovering sealed staircases, and cleaning and repairing the exterior granite. Modern technology was seamlessly integrated into the historic architecture, with upgrades to electrical, mechanical, and communication systems, as well as the addition of air conditioning and asbestos removal.

Sculpture and Art

The capitol's sculpture program, initially planned by architect George B. Post, includes an array of symbolic figures. The four sculptural groups at the base of the dome, created by Karl Bitter, represent Faith, Strength, Prosperity and Abundance, and Knowledge. Each wing’s pediment features sculptures related to the activities within, such as Adolph Alexander Weinman's Virtues and Traits of Character on the south wing and Attilio Piccirilli's Wisdom and Learning of the World on the north wing.

Throughout the capitol, visitors can also find naturally occurring fossils embedded in the stone, including starfish, coral, nautiloids, gastropods, ammonoids, bryozoans, burrows, and brachiopods. These fossils add a unique and intriguing aspect to the building’s already rich history and architecture.

A National Historic Landmark

In 2001, the Wisconsin State Capitol was designated a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its historical and architectural significance. A state law passed in 1990 ensures that no building within one mile of the capitol can be taller than the base of the columns surrounding its dome, preserving its prominence in Madison’s skyline.

The Wisconsin State Capitol is not just a building; it is a symbol of the state's history, governance, and artistic heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a casual visitor, a trip to this magnificent structure is an unforgettable experience. Its walls echo the stories of Wisconsin's past, making it a must-visit destination in the heart of Madison.