Indiana Statehouse

The Indiana Statehouse, located at 200 West Washington Street in the heart of Indianapolis, stands as an architectural marvel and a beacon of the state's rich history. This grand building, completed in 1888, serves as the epicenter for Indiana's government, housing the Indiana General Assembly, the office of the Governor, and the Indiana Supreme Court, among other state officials. This is the fifth building to serve as Indiana's state capitol, each iteration reflecting the growing needs and ambitions of the state.

A Journey Through History

The first statehouse was a modest two-story limestone structure built in Corydon, Indiana, in 1813. This building, constructed by Dennis Pennington's company, cost $1,500 and was funded by the citizens of Harrison County. It was a humble beginning for the state’s government, with the building quickly becoming too small to accommodate the expanding state administration. The state capital was moved to Indianapolis in 1824, and the old statehouse in Corydon now stands as a preserved historic site.

Upon relocating to Indianapolis, the state government initially operated out of the Marion County Courthouse, a building constructed with state funds in 1822. This courthouse served as the state capitol for ten years. The journey to Indianapolis was arduous, taking over a month to move the state treasury, library, records, and furniture through dense forests.

In 1835, a new statehouse was constructed, modeled after the ancient Greek Parthenon. However, by the 1860s, the building had become decrepit and too small for the growing government. After numerous structural failures, including a collapsed ceiling, the building was condemned in 1876 and demolished the following year.

The Birth of the Current Statehouse

The construction of the current Indiana Statehouse was a project born out of necessity and ambition. Approved by the Indiana General Assembly in 1878, the construction began in 1880 with a budget of two million dollars. Governor James D. Williams, known for his frugality, managed to complete the project for $1.8 million, returning the extra $200,000 to the general fund.

The building was designed by Edwin May, an Indianapolis architect, and overseen by a team of commissioners, including Civil War general and civil engineer Thomas A. Morris. After May's death in 1880, Adolph Scherer took over the supervision of the construction. The structure was designed with a solid foundation to avoid the mistakes of its predecessors and to ensure longevity.

The Indiana Statehouse is a testament to the grandeur of Italian Renaissance architecture. The interior features materials native to Indiana, including doors made of Indiana oak and limestone quarried from Spencer, Indiana. The central dome, completed in 1883, stands as a symbol of the building's architectural excellence. The building was also ahead of its time, being wired for electricity even before Indianapolis had an electrical power grid.

Exploring the Statehouse

Visitors to the Indiana Statehouse are greeted by its impressive façade, featuring a grand staircase and a statue of Oliver P. Morton, the Civil War governor of Indiana. The building's exterior is adorned with intricate carvings and a majestic dome that dominates the skyline.

Inside, the Statehouse is a treasure trove of history and architecture. The rotunda, with its soaring dome and beautiful stained glass, is a sight to behold. The interior is a blend of elegance and function, with marble floors, grand staircases, and ornate chandeliers. The House and Senate chambers are equally impressive, with rich woodwork and historical artifacts that tell the story of Indiana's legislative history.

A highlight of any visit is the Governor's office, a space that reflects both the history and the ongoing work of the state's executive branch. The office is adorned with portraits of past governors and offers a glimpse into the state's political history.

A Living Monument

The Indiana Statehouse is not just a building; it is a living monument to the state's history and a working hub for its government. It stands as a symbol of Indiana's growth and resilience, from its humble beginnings in Corydon to its current status as a bustling center of political activity.

Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or a curious tourist, the Indiana Statehouse offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and present of Indiana. Its halls echo with the stories of the state's journey, making it an unmissable destination in Indianapolis.