Mississippi State Capitol

In the heart of Jackson, Mississippi, stands a beacon of history, architecture, and state governance: the Mississippi State Capitol. This grand edifice, completed in 1903, serves as a testament to the state's rich history and its commitment to progress. As you approach the Capitol, its majestic dome crowned with a gleaming golden eagle captures your attention, inviting you to explore its storied halls and intricate designs.

The History of the Mississippi State Capitol

The journey to the construction of the current Mississippi State Capitol was one of determination and vision. After years of debate and planning, Governor Andrew Houston Longino, who took office in January 1900, persuaded the Legislature to approve the construction of a new Capitol. In February 1900, a competition was held to select the design, drawing submissions from fourteen architects nationwide. The winning design came from Theodore C. Link of St. Louis, Missouri, and construction commenced on the site of the old state penitentiary.

The project, completed in just 28 months, cost $1,093,641. Remarkably, the state did not have to issue bonds to cover the expenses, thanks to a fortuitous $1 million settlement from the Illinois Central Railroad for unpaid back taxes, ordered by the U.S. Supreme Court. The Capitol originally housed all three branches of the state government. However, today, it primarily serves the Legislative branch, with the Supreme Court and the Governor's main office having relocated to nearby buildings in 1972.

Architectural Marvel

The Mississippi State Capitol is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture, echoing the grandeur of the National Capitol in Washington, D.C. The building spans 122 meters in width and 68.5 meters in depth, covering a total area of 15,886 square meters. Its central dome rises 54.8 meters above ground level, creating a focal point that dominates the Jackson skyline.

The exterior walls are crafted from Indiana limestone, while the base and stairs are made of Georgia granite. The drum of the main dome is adorned with a limestone colonnade, and the dome itself is topped with a 2.5-meter-tall golden eagle, symbolizing freedom and strength. Inside, the Capitol boasts a variety of exquisite materials, including over ten types of marble from different states and countries, as well as scagliola, an artistic imitation of marble.

The Capitol was one of the first buildings in the state to incorporate electric lighting, featuring 4,750 fixtures that continue to illuminate its halls today. The intricate stained glass windows, crafted by Louis Millet of Chicago, add to the building's splendor, casting colorful light into the grand staircases, Senate and House chambers, and various offices.

Exploring the Capitol

Visitors to the Mississippi State Capitol are in for a treat. As you step inside, the grandeur of the Rotunda greets you. This central space, located on the second floor, features walls of Italian white marble and Belgian black marble, with cast iron balustrades adorned with architectural motifs. Above, the central dome allows natural light to mingle with the original electric lamps, creating a luminous and inviting atmosphere. Sculptures of Lady Justice grace the arches, symbolizing fairness and law.

The Rotunda also showcases the three classical orders: Roman Doric on the second floor, Ionic on the third floor, and Corinthian on the monumental columns. The second floor houses the former Supreme Court and State Library, while the third floor is home to the Senate and House chambers, as well as the offices of the Lieutenant Governor and the Speaker of the House. The fourth floor offers public galleries for visitors to observe legislative sessions.

Don't miss the Hall of Governors on the ground floor, where portraits of Mississippi's past governors, starting with the first territorial governor, Winthrop Sargent, are displayed. This gallery provides a fascinating glimpse into the state's political history and the individuals who have shaped its governance.

Restorations and Renovations

Over the years, the Mississippi State Capitol has undergone several significant restorations and renovations to preserve its beauty and functionality. In the early 1930s, a major painting project transformed the Capitol's interior from its original white plaster ceilings to a vibrant and colorful palette. This effort, funded by the Civil Works Administration and overseen by architect A. Hays Town of Jackson, included stunning artwork in the Rotunda and Senate chamber domes.

The most extensive renovation took place between 1979 and 1982, with a budget of $19 million. During this period, the Legislature temporarily relocated to the old Central High School in Jackson. The renovation included the installation of mezzanines in the second-floor offices to increase workspace, as well as the restoration of key public areas such as the House and Senate chambers, the former Supreme Court chamber, the Governor's reception room, the Rotunda, the Hall of History, and the United Daughters of the Confederacy reception room.

A Symbol of Mississippi

The Mississippi State Capitol is more than just a building; it is a symbol of the state's history, resilience, and pride. Its walls echo with the stories of legislative battles, judicial decisions, and executive actions that have shaped Mississippi's past and continue to influence its future. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or a curious traveler, a visit to the Mississippi State Capitol promises to be an enlightening and inspiring experience.

In conclusion, the Mississippi State Capitol stands as a proud testament to the state's rich heritage and commitment to progress. Its architectural splendor, historical significance, and ongoing role in state governance make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Jackson, Mississippi. So, take a step back in time, marvel at the intricate designs, and immerse yourself in the stories that have shaped this remarkable state.