Nestled in the heart of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania State Capitol stands as a testament to the beauty, history, and grandeur of American architecture. This magnificent building not only serves as the seat of the Pennsylvania General Assembly but also as an iconic symbol of the state’s rich history and its role in shaping the nation. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply someone passing through Harrisburg, the Pennsylvania State Capitol is a must-visit destination that captures the spirit of the state in its design and purpose.
A Brief History of the Pennsylvania State Capitol
The Need for a New Capitol Building
The history of the Pennsylvania State Capitol begins with the realization in the late 19th century that the existing state house was no longer sufficient for the growing needs of Pennsylvania’s government. Built in 1822, the original state house in Harrisburg had served the state’s legislative body for decades, but by the turn of the 20th century, the rapid growth of Pennsylvania’s population, industry, and governmental needs made it clear that a more grand and functional building was required.
By the 1880s, the state’s infrastructure was expanding at a rapid rate. Pennsylvania’s population was surging, especially in the urban areas, while the state was undergoing significant changes brought about by the industrial revolution. The need for a larger, more representative facility for the state’s lawmakers and government officials had become urgent. The original structure, while historic, was outdated and insufficient to accommodate the growing bureaucracy. It lacked adequate space, was poorly ventilated, and did not reflect the state’s increasing influence in the national sphere.
The lack of space for government officials and the growing political and economic clout of Pennsylvania were key factors in the decision to build a new Capitol. In the 1880s, many Pennsylvania leaders began to push for a new Capitol that would not only serve as the center of the state government but also stand as a monument to the state’s historical importance and its aspirations for the future. Pennsylvania needed a building that matched the ambition and prestige of the state, one that could represent its economic prosperity and political power.
In 1901, the state legislature finally made the bold decision to move forward with the construction of a new Capitol building. This decision was based not only on the increasing demand for space but also on the desire for a structure that would embody the state’s legacy, its historical significance, and its vision for the future. The time had come to create a monumental building worthy of the state’s growing importance.
The Design and Vision
The state sought a design that would symbolize the rich heritage of Pennsylvania, particularly its contributions to the American Revolution and its crucial role in the nation’s industrial development. At the same time, the state wanted the building to reflect the modernity and progress of a state at the forefront of economic change. After a period of extensive planning and consultation, the state selected architect Joseph M. Huston for the task of designing the new Capitol.
Huston, an experienced architect with a vision of grandeur, proposed a building that would be grand in scale, impressive in design, and functional for the needs of the state legislature. His vision was heavily inspired by European and classical architecture, particularly the great legislative buildings of Paris and Washington, D.C. Huston’s design included an elaborate dome, ornate interiors, and a large central rotunda—all aimed at making the Pennsylvania State Capitol one of the most visually striking and symbolic governmental buildings in the nation.
Huston’s design would incorporate Beaux-Arts architecture, a style that emphasized symmetry, rich decoration, and monumentality. The plan also included the creation of large, open spaces for state offices and legislative chambers, ensuring that the new Capitol could serve the needs of Pennsylvania’s rapidly expanding government.
Construction Begins: 1902-1906
Construction of the new Pennsylvania State Capitol began in 1902 after years of detailed planning, and the project moved forward with remarkable speed. Despite the magnitude of the project, it was completed in just four years—far faster than similar projects in other states. The speed of construction was particularly impressive given the sheer complexity and scale of the building, as well as the fact that it was built with an enormous budget.
The construction process was not without its challenges. For one, the site chosen for the Capitol was located on a hilly area in Harrisburg, which required significant excavation. There were also complications in sourcing high-quality materials for the building’s intricate finishes and grand design. However, despite these challenges, the project moved forward rapidly thanks to the determination of Huston, the state officials, and the workers involved.
At the same time, the budget for the Capitol’s construction was unprecedented. The state legislature approved $13 million (equivalent to more than $400 million today) for the project, a lavish sum for a public building at the time. This hefty investment ensured that the Capitol would be constructed to the highest standards and would include features such as marble floors, gold leaf decorations, and elaborate murals that would transform it into a building fit for a state of Pennsylvania’s significance.
The Capitol’s dome, inspired by the great domes of European and American buildings, became the centerpiece of the design, measuring 272 feet tall and covered in green copper. The design also incorporated grand staircases, a lavish interior, and a large, open rotunda with impressive artwork and relief sculptures that tell the story of Pennsylvania’s history.
A Monument to Pennsylvania’s Legacy
When the Pennsylvania State Capitol was completed in 1906, it stood as a triumph of design, craftsmanship, and symbolism. It was a direct reflection of the state’s rich history, economic power, and political importance in the early 20th century.
As one of the largest and most beautiful capitol buildings in the United States, the Pennsylvania State Capitol was designed to be a lasting symbol of the state’s influence in the Union. It stands as a tribute to the people of Pennsylvania—to their courage, resilience, and contributions to the founding of the United States, to their role in shaping the nation’s industrial backbone, and to their enduring pride in the Commonwealth.
In the years since its completion, the Capitol has continued to stand as a testament to the state’s political significance, as well as its commitment to maintaining a legacy of beauty, functionality, and public service. The building not only serves as the center of Pennsylvania’s government but also as a space where history is commemorated through the artwork and architecture it houses.
The Capitol Today
Today, the Pennsylvania State Capitol remains one of the most admired public buildings in the United States. Its grand architecture and historic artwork continue to draw visitors from across the country and around the world. It serves as the headquarters for the Pennsylvania General Assembly, and its elegant rooms and chambers house the legislative process for the Commonwealth.
While the Capitol has undergone some renovations and additions over the years, it has retained its original grandeur and historical integrity. The building’s beauty, combined with its rich historical significance, continues to inspire awe in those who visit it today, much as it did when it was first completed more than a century ago.
Architectural Features of the Pennsylvania State Capitol
An Overview of the Architectural Style
The Pennsylvania State Capitol is often regarded as one of the finest examples of Beaux-Arts architecture in the United States. Beaux-Arts is a grand and highly decorative style that draws heavily from classical and Renaissance architecture. It emphasizes symmetry, monumental scale, and intricate detailing, all of which are prominently featured in the Capitol building’s design.
The Capitol’s exterior is made of Indiana limestone, with a striking green copper dome that towers over Harrisburg’s skyline. The dome itself is a masterpiece, rising 272 feet into the air and inspired by the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. This classic influence ties the building to both ancient and Renaissance ideals, further cementing its status as a symbol of both Pennsylvania’s history and the nation’s broader political heritage.
The main building, with its grand columns and sweeping staircases, is designed to impress. Yet, it is the details inside the Capitol that truly make it an architectural marvel.
The Rotunda: A Glimpse of Grandeur
One of the most iconic features of the Capitol building is its Rotunda, which serves as the focal point of the entire structure. Visitors who enter the building are immediately drawn to the enormous circular space, with its towering ceiling and intricate design.
The Rotunda is illuminated by a massive glass dome, adorned with vibrant stained glass that casts colorful light onto the marble floor below. This dazzling display of light and color creates an awe-inspiring atmosphere and sets the tone for the rest of the building’s design.
The mural painted in the Rotunda also catches the eye. Titled “The Apotheosis of Pennsylvania,” it depicts the state’s journey from its founding to its role in the United States today. The painting, commissioned in 1902, is rich in symbolism and celebrates Pennsylvania’s contributions to the nation.
The Senate and House Chambers: Where Laws Are Made
The Senate Chamber
The Senate Chamber is another highlight of the Capitol, combining both style and function. It’s designed to seat 50 senators, with lush green velvet chairs lining the room. The chamber is characterized by grand arches, elaborate molding, and high ceilings that make the space feel open and inviting.
But what truly sets the Senate Chamber apart is the stunning stained-glass skylight. This skylight allows natural light to flood the room, highlighting the beauty of the intricate woodwork and painted murals that adorn the walls. The entire room exudes a sense of authority and reverence, befitting the important decisions that take place within.
The House of Representatives Chamber
The House of Representatives Chamber is similarly breathtaking, though it is even larger than the Senate Chamber to accommodate the 203 members of the House. The chamber is known for its exquisite woodwork and opulent chandeliers, which illuminate the space and create a warm, inviting environment.
The ceiling of the chamber is another work of art. Painted in soft blues and whites, it evokes the feeling of a bright sky above. The murals, like those in the Senate Chamber, focus on Pennsylvania’s important contributions to the United States, as well as the state’s rich historical heritage.
The Hall of Governors: Honoring Pennsylvania’s Leaders
One of the most beautiful rooms in the Capitol is the Hall of Governors, where portraits of each of Pennsylvania’s governors are displayed. This large, elegant space highlights the important role that Pennsylvania’s leaders have played in the state’s history. The room itself features high ceilings, ornate wood paneling, and gold leafing, making it an extraordinary place to view the gallery of historical portraits.
The Hall of Governors connects the Capitol building’s rich past to its present, offering visitors the opportunity to reflect on the achievements and leadership that have shaped Pennsylvania over the centuries.
The Artistic Significance of the Pennsylvania State Capitol
The Pennsylvania State Capitol is a masterpiece that goes far beyond its architectural splendor. It is a stunning fusion of history, culture, and art, a living testament to the state’s journey through time. The Capitol isn’t just a building; it is a work of art that brings Pennsylvania’s storied past to life through murals, paintings, sculptures, and reliefs. These artistic elements reflect the state’s rich heritage and political importance while enhancing the beauty of the space.
Murals and Paintings: A Visual History of Pennsylvania
When visitors step inside the Pennsylvania State Capitol, they are immediately struck by the vibrant murals that cover the walls and ceilings of the building. The Capitol is home to over 40 murals, each of which tells a chapter in Pennsylvania’s history, starting from its colonial past to its vital role in the shaping of the United States. These murals are not mere decorations but visual storytelling tools that convey the state’s culture, struggles, and triumphs.
The Artists Behind the Murals
The murals in the Pennsylvania State Capitol were created by some of the most talented artists of the early 20th century, many of whom were specifically chosen by the building’s architect, Joseph M. Huston. Huston, known for his Beaux-Arts design of the Capitol, envisioned a structure that would not only reflect the state’s grandeur but also incorporate art as a means of educating the public about Pennsylvania’s legacy.
To bring this vision to life, Huston recruited notable muralists such as Philip Martiny, Howard Pyle, Franklin T. Wood, and Elliot J. Daingerfield, who were celebrated for their talent and mastery in creating monumental works of art. These artists brought their expertise to the Capitol’s walls, creating murals that both captured the essence of Pennsylvania’s past and became an integral part of the Capitol’s architectural design.
The Subject Matter of the Murals
The murals in the Capitol span a wide range of historical themes and events, each celebrating different aspects of the state’s significance to both Pennsylvania and the United States. The murals cover key moments in history, including:
- Colonial Pennsylvania
Some of the earliest murals highlight the colonial history of Pennsylvania, focusing on its founding by William Penn and the early days of the colony. These works capture the founding ideals of the state, such as religious freedom and democratic governance, which were central to its formation. One of the most famous murals in this section is titled “William Penn’s Treaty with the Indians,” which depicts Penn’s peaceful and historic interaction with the Native American tribes. - The Industrial Rise of Pennsylvania
As the state grew, it became a hub of industry. The murals illustrate Pennsylvania’s transition from an agricultural economy to an industrial powerhouse. These works portray the flourishing steel mills, coal mining, and other industries that played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s economy and the nation’s industrial revolution. The murals bring to life the immense contributions of Pennsylvania to America’s development and global standing. - The American Revolution
Pennsylvania played a significant role in the American Revolution, and this chapter is depicted in several murals throughout the Capitol. The murals showcase key events like the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia and the Battle of Germantown, placing Pennsylvania at the heart of the struggle for American independence. - The Civil War and Pennsylvania’s Role
Several murals also commemorate Pennsylvania’s contributions during the Civil War. The state provided countless soldiers, including the renowned Iron Brigade, and several Pennsylvania cities were sites of major battles. One of the most striking murals in the Capitol depicts the Battle of Gettysburg, a pivotal turning point in the war. These murals honor the sacrifices made by Pennsylvanians in the pursuit of freedom and unity for the United States. - Other Notable Events in Pennsylvania’s History
From the founding of institutions like the University of Pennsylvania to the development of the Pennsylvania Railroad, these murals encompass every era of the state’s cultural, economic, and political achievements.
The Impact of the Murals
The murals of the Pennsylvania State Capitol do more than just decorate the walls—they serve as a living history book that engages viewers with the story of the state. The vibrant colors, grand scale, and detailed figures offer an immersive experience that allows visitors to reflect on the struggles and triumphs that have defined Pennsylvania.
Each mural has been carefully painted to reflect both the historical accuracy of the event depicted as well as the emotional tone of the time. The artists used their work to connect the viewer with the struggles and achievements of the past. Whether it’s a scene of settlers arriving on the shores of Pennsylvania or a depiction of industrial workers toiling in factories, these murals make the history come alive.
The murals also reflect the artistic trends of the time, and their realism and symbolism give a glimpse into the broader art movements that shaped the turn of the 20th century.
Sculpture and Reliefs: Celebrating Pennsylvania’s Figures and Ideals
While the murals of the Capitol may dominate the visual landscape, the building is also home to a stunning array of sculptures and reliefs that add to its artistic significance. These sculptures, crafted from marble, bronze, and other fine materials, highlight important figures in Pennsylvania’s history and commemorate significant events.
The Statue of Governor Andrew G. Curtin
One of the most notable sculptures in the Capitol is the statue of Governor Andrew G. Curtin. Curtin, who served as governor during the Civil War, is an important figure in the state’s history. The statue, which stands proudly in the Capitol, honors his leadership during a time of national turmoil and celebrates his role in advocating for the state’s contributions to the Union effort during the war.
This statue is not just a likeness of Curtin—it represents the ideals of courage, sacrifice, and leadership that defined his tenure as governor.
The Marble Reliefs
Throughout the Capitol, you will find marble reliefs that illustrate pivotal moments in Pennsylvania’s history. These intricate carvings often depict figures from the state’s past, such as Native American chiefs, settlers, and revolutionaries. The use of marble in these sculptures is significant, as it evokes both timelessness and strength, qualities that the state and its citizens have embodied throughout history.
In addition to commemorating historical figures, many of the reliefs highlight symbolic elements of Pennsylvania’s identity, such as the state seal, agriculture, mining, and industry. These reliefs encapsulate the state’s most prominent industries and natural resources, which played such a crucial role in Pennsylvania’s development.
The Friezes and Carvings of the Rotunda
The Rotunda, the heart of the Capitol, is adorned with several stunning friezes and carvings that enhance the building’s grandiosity. The ceiling of the Rotunda itself features intricate carvings, while the cornices and friezes along the walls showcase figures from Pennsylvania’s past—heroes of the American Revolution, artists, and thinkers.
These sculptures and reliefs offer a deeper connection between the visitor and the stories of Pennsylvania’s past, creating a sense of reverence and respect for those who shaped the state.
Visiting the Pennsylvania State Capitol
The Pennsylvania State Capitol is not just a place for lawmakers—it’s a public space that is open to visitors. Free tours are offered throughout the week, providing a detailed and informative look at the building’s history and its architectural beauty. Tours are guided by experts who will walk you through the Capitol’s most iconic rooms and explain the fascinating history behind each element of the design.
Visitors can also take part in the Capitol Complex Walking Tour, which extends beyond the Capitol building to other significant buildings in the area. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or government, a visit to the Capitol is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
The Pennsylvania State Capitol is not just an architectural marvel—it’s a representation of the state’s pride, history, and future. From its grand exterior to its awe-inspiring interior, the Capitol is a reflection of Pennsylvania’s importance in the United States and its vibrant culture. As you walk through its halls, you’re walking through the story of Pennsylvania, told through art, architecture, and design.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply someone looking for a magnificent architectural experience, the Pennsylvania State Capitol is a must-see destination. It stands as a living monument to the beauty of the past and the promises of the future—an enduring symbol of the great state of Pennsylvania.
