“Built in an age when Americans believed that public architecture could shape beliefs, refine discourse, and instill patriotism, the Statehouse symbolizes the solidarity and permanence of Ohio’s government” (12).
Ohio Statehouse: A Building for the Ages does more
than provide the history statehouse, it presents a building that has three
purposes: a memorial to important Ohioans, the seat of state government, and an
educational center. Authors Cheryl Straker and Chris Matheney walk readers
through a “tour” of the Capitol Square, a ten-acre plot in Columbus made up of
the Statehouse, Senate Building, Atrium, and grounds.
Unlike many state capitol cities, Columbus was not a
pre-established town when it was chosen as the third location for Ohio’s state
capitol. In 1812, four prominent men donated the ten-acre plot and a statehouse
building opened in 1816. It wasn’t long until a new statehouse was needed, for
safety and size needs. The legislature held a design competition and the top
three designs were merged into a composite final design. Convicts began work in
1839, cutting Ohio limestone for the foundation, but it took 22 years to
complete. Delays came from arguments amongst legislators, a cholera outbreak,
and insufficient funds. The Ohio Statehouse went through a $10 million restoration
project from 1990-1996. It is considered one of the best examples of
Greek-revival architecture and, according to Frank Lloyd Wright, it is “the
most honest of all American statehouses” (20).
Throughout the “tour”, readers are able to peak into the
legislative chambers, hearing rooms, and offices. They also learn how the
purposes of various sections have changed over the years and the meticulous
detail that went into the historically accurate restoration. One totally random
fact, that I can’t help but share: there once was a squirrel house served
Columbus’s squirrel population. Citizens could come watch the squirrels explore
the multiple rooms, porches, doors, and windows. Sadly, the squirrel house was
demolished in 1917; but there are still plenty of monuments to see in Capitol
Square.
Ohio Statehouse: A Building for the Ages is a thin version of a coffee table book, going a bit more in-depth than a guided tour. The images, photos, and sketches take precedent over the text and quotes from historically significant individuals are set apart. The section on the grounds and monuments was unique for its detailed descriptions, explaining why monuments were erected and including the inscriptions on the monuments. The book is thorough, even including information about the underground parking garage!
The Place
The Ohio Statehouse is not a tall building, but it commands attention in the heart of Columbus. Situated in the Capitol Square complex, the Statehouse is surrounded by a public park and monuments. Ohio has done a great job of using the Statehouse to both govern and educate, using every level of the building:
- The interactive exhibits of the Museum Education Center allow visitors the opportunity to learn about state government and hear from former legislators.
- The Map Room displays a 20’ x 20’ map of the state
where visitors can walk across the counties.
- The artwork in the Rotunda highlights significant
moments in Ohio history and influential Ohioans.
- The legislative chambers and offices provide
inspiring settings for the work of governing.
