The capitol building in Lincoln is probably the most recognizable building in Nebraska, and it’s very unusual as far as state capitol buildings go. It’s been a stunning symbol of our unique state for nearly a century, but have you ever seen photos of its construction?
- The Capitol Railroad tracks are laid, March 1922.
See page for author [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons Tracks were laid up to the building site to facilitate the transportation of building materials. See the existing building in the background? That was Nebraska’s second capitol building. The one we know and love today is actually the state’s third.
- Workers muscle materials into place.
YouTube/NETNebraska The state’s second capitol only lasted a couple of decades before faulty design led to structural problems. Construction on the new building began in 1922 and was completed in 1932.
- The unique new design is brought to life.
YouTube/NETNebraska Nebraska’s brand-new capitol building was the first in the nation to deviate from the standard design that mimicked that of the nation’s capitol. Ours was the first to incorporate a tower; the 400-foot spire is still the second tallest (on a state capitol building) in the country.
- The building comes along nicely with a team of dedicated builders working to bring architect Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue’s creation to life.
YouTube/NETNebraska
- Onlookers watch as the Golden Sower is prepared to be hoisted to the top.
YouTube/NETNebraska The 19-foot-tall bronze statue is a symbol of Nebraska’s agricultural identity.
- It only took 15 minutes to get the statue all the way to the top of the 400-foot-tall tower.
YouTube/NETNebraska
Learn more about the history and construction of the capitol building in this fascinating video from NET Nebraska.
See page for author [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Tracks were laid up to the building site to facilitate the transportation of building materials. See the existing building in the background? That was Nebraska’s second capitol building. The one we know and love today is actually the state’s third.
YouTube/NETNebraska
The state’s second capitol only lasted a couple of decades before faulty design led to structural problems. Construction on the new building began in 1922 and was completed in 1932.
Nebraska’s brand-new capitol building was the first in the nation to deviate from the standard design that mimicked that of the nation’s capitol. Ours was the first to incorporate a tower; the 400-foot spire is still the second tallest (on a state capitol building) in the country.
The 19-foot-tall bronze statue is a symbol of Nebraska’s agricultural identity.
Do you love old photos of the Cornhusker State? Check out 30 more fascinating photos from the past here.
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Address: Nebraska State Capitol, 1445 K St, Lincoln, NE 68508, USA
