The Florida State Capitols in Tallahassee

The first picture says it all.  The third Florida State Capitol is located in front of the fourth Florida State Capitol.  The domed Capitol Building is a great juxtaposition to the current sleek, modern looking State Capitol building

The Old Capitol was completed
1842.  Additions enlarged it until
the New Capitol became a
necessity.

Construction of the New Capitol
started in 1973 & completed
in 1977.

Even though the Old Capitol  was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, it was threatened with demolition during construction of the New State Capitol in the late 1970s.  The public strongly objected.  The Old Capitol was saved and restored to its 1902 appearance (1978 - 1982). It is operated as a museum, free of charge.  It hosts many school tours and visitors from near and far.

  

This is the view from the

 Old State Capitol down 

Apalachee Parkway

circa 1900.

This is the view from the

 Old State Capitol down 

Apalachee Parkway today.

The main staircase

in the Old Capitol

The domed rotunda

was added in 1902.

The Senate Chamber in the

Old State Capitol.

The lighting replicates the

gas lamps/electric lighting

included in the 1902 renovation.

The House of Representatives
in the Old Capitol

Architect Edward Durell Stone of New York

teamed with the engineering firm of

 Reynolds, Smith & Hills of Jacksonville

 to design the New Capitol & two

Legislative Office Buildings that make

up the Capital Complex.

The entrance of
the New Capitol

One of two sweeping

staircases in the entrance

The Rotunda

The Senate Chamber

The House of Representatives

The Observation Deck on the 22nd floor showcases artwork that portray Florida's history.  

Our verdict on the Florida State Capitols:  Together, The Old and The New State Capitols represent the development of Florida and its government.  The Old Building is an awesome example of 19th and early 20th century architecture.  The Legislative Chambers reflect the practicality of the mid 19th century. The New Capitol also reflects the era in which it was built.  Its appearance is simple, unadorned.  The interior materials were selected to welcome the public and put them at ease.  The paneled and carpeted Legislative Chambers are roomy and meet the legislators needs.  Governing is an ongoing activity for all to witness.