Illinois State Capitol
- npoelaert0
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
The history of the Illinois State Capitol is a reflection of the state’s growth and political evolution, spanning six distinct buildings and three capital cities. Illinois’ first capitol was established in Kaskaskia in 1818, but as the state expanded, the capital moved to Vandalia in 1820. There, a series of buildings served as the capitol, including a structure destroyed by fire in 1824 and its replacement, which stood until 1836. The push for a more central and accessible location led to the selection of Springfield as the new capital in 1837. The fifth Illinois State Capitol, a grand Greek Revival building designed by John F. Rague, was completed in 1853 and became a hub of political life, famously hosting Abraham Lincoln during his early career and his historic “House Divided” speech in 1858. This building served until 1876, when it was repurposed as the Sangamon County Courthouse and later restored as a historic site.
Construction of the sixth and current Illinois State Capitol began in 1868, following a two-decade-long project that aimed to create a building befitting Illinois’ growing prominence. Designed in a classical style with a towering dome—reaching 361 feet, making it the tallest non-skyscraper capitol in the U.S.—the building was completed in 1888. Its interior features a plaster frieze depicting scenes from Illinois history, stained glass windows, and a replica of the state seal in the dome’s oculus. The capitol’s grandeur and symbolic artwork reflect the state’s aspirations and its role as a center of governance. Over the years, the building has undergone restorations to preserve its historic character while adapting to modern needs, ensuring its continued significance as both a working government seat and a monument to Illinois’ rich heritage.
