Construction of the Nebraska State Capitol
Traveling through Nebraska, a state known for its rich history and stunning architecture, one notable landmark stands out: the Nebraska State Capitol building. Located at 1445 K Street, in the heart of Lincoln, the state capital, this iconic building took nearly three decades to complete and boasts an intricate history. The construction of the Nebraska State Capitol is an exemplary showcase of perseverance, innovative architecture, and visionary leadership.
The Nebraska State Legislature first approved the construction of a new capitol building in 1919, as the former capitol building was deemed inadequate for the growing state government. After a competitive bidding process, the architectural firm of Bertram Goodhue Associates, led by Bertram Goodhue himself, was selected to design the new building. Goodhue was an acclaimed architect known for his innovative designs, such as the Nebraska City Hall in Omaha and the El Paso City Hall in Texas. The design of the Nebraska State Capitol building was to be a masterpiece, with a distinctive Art Deco style and a skyscraper-like tower that would dominate the cityscape.
Groundbreaking for the new capitol building took place on April 23, 1922. The construction process was not without its challenges, as it faced two major setbacks: the death of Bertram Goodhue in 1924 and the subsequent dismissal of his firm in 1925. The construction project then fell under the supervision of architectural firm Davis and Wilson, who ensured that Goodhue's vision was preserved. The exterior of the building was completed in 1932, with the installation of the iconic Sower statue on the dome, designed by sculptor Lee Lawrie. However, due to funding issues, the interior of the building took another decade to complete, with the grand opening finally taking place on October 1, 1932.
A striking feature of the Nebraska State Capitol building is its ornate interior, adorned with intricate murals, mosaics, and sculptures. The building's main chamber, the Legislative Chamber, boasts an impressive architectural feature: a balconied gallery that encircles the entire room, providing an impressive view of the proceedings below. Visitors to the building can also marvel at the stunning Memorial Chamber, featuring murals depicting the history of Nebraska and a gleaming golden dome.
The construction of the Nebraska State Capitol building was not without controversy. One notable issue arose when it came to light that some of the building materials were not sourced locally, sparking outrage among Nebraska residents who felt that state funds were being spent elsewhere. However, the building's enduring presence has silenced these criticisms, and the Capitol has become an iconic symbol of Nebraska's resilience and innovative spirit.
Throughout its construction, the Nebraska State Capitol building underwent numerous design revisions. One such revision was the decision to reduce the tower's original height by 10 feet to save costs. The revised design resulted in a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing building, which would eventually earn it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
The impact of the Nebraska State Capitol building extends beyond its impressive architecture and intricate history. It is an architectural testament to Nebraska's growth and modernization, showcasing the state's capacity for innovation and visionary leadership. Visitors to the building can explore the many historical exhibits, learn about Nebraska's rich history, and marvel at the stunning layout of the building.
Today, the Nebraska State Capitol building remains an iconic landmark in the heart of Lincoln, serving as a testament to the state's perseverance and innovative spirit. It has been a celebrated symbol of Nebraska's rich history, with millions of visitors walking through its doors each year to admire the building's intricate design and stunning architecture.
The Nebraska State Legislature first approved the construction of a new capitol building in 1919, as the former capitol building was deemed inadequate for the growing state government. After a competitive bidding process, the architectural firm of Bertram Goodhue Associates, led by Bertram Goodhue himself, was selected to design the new building. Goodhue was an acclaimed architect known for his innovative designs, such as the Nebraska City Hall in Omaha and the El Paso City Hall in Texas. The design of the Nebraska State Capitol building was to be a masterpiece, with a distinctive Art Deco style and a skyscraper-like tower that would dominate the cityscape.
Groundbreaking for the new capitol building took place on April 23, 1922. The construction process was not without its challenges, as it faced two major setbacks: the death of Bertram Goodhue in 1924 and the subsequent dismissal of his firm in 1925. The construction project then fell under the supervision of architectural firm Davis and Wilson, who ensured that Goodhue's vision was preserved. The exterior of the building was completed in 1932, with the installation of the iconic Sower statue on the dome, designed by sculptor Lee Lawrie. However, due to funding issues, the interior of the building took another decade to complete, with the grand opening finally taking place on October 1, 1932.
A striking feature of the Nebraska State Capitol building is its ornate interior, adorned with intricate murals, mosaics, and sculptures. The building's main chamber, the Legislative Chamber, boasts an impressive architectural feature: a balconied gallery that encircles the entire room, providing an impressive view of the proceedings below. Visitors to the building can also marvel at the stunning Memorial Chamber, featuring murals depicting the history of Nebraska and a gleaming golden dome.
The construction of the Nebraska State Capitol building was not without controversy. One notable issue arose when it came to light that some of the building materials were not sourced locally, sparking outrage among Nebraska residents who felt that state funds were being spent elsewhere. However, the building's enduring presence has silenced these criticisms, and the Capitol has become an iconic symbol of Nebraska's resilience and innovative spirit.
Throughout its construction, the Nebraska State Capitol building underwent numerous design revisions. One such revision was the decision to reduce the tower's original height by 10 feet to save costs. The revised design resulted in a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing building, which would eventually earn it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
The impact of the Nebraska State Capitol building extends beyond its impressive architecture and intricate history. It is an architectural testament to Nebraska's growth and modernization, showcasing the state's capacity for innovation and visionary leadership. Visitors to the building can explore the many historical exhibits, learn about Nebraska's rich history, and marvel at the stunning layout of the building.
Today, the Nebraska State Capitol building remains an iconic landmark in the heart of Lincoln, serving as a testament to the state's perseverance and innovative spirit. It has been a celebrated symbol of Nebraska's rich history, with millions of visitors walking through its doors each year to admire the building's intricate design and stunning architecture.
