How old is the illinois state capitol building

The two day celebration is a recreation of the social life of Vandalia during its tenure as the Illinois State Capital. On a Saturday in early December, an open house at Oldest Capitol invites all to visit a building wearing its 's Christmas finery. Contact the Capitol office for exact dates and times of all events. However, this extravagant gesture proved to be entirely in vain. Upon the return of the General Assembly, ignoring Vandalia's efforts, Lincoln succeeded in having Springfield named as the third Illinois Capital.

On February 25, , the Assembly authorized the Capital's removal from Vandalia to some place nearer the State's geographical center. Three days later Springfield was the site chosen.

Because of the Assembly Act, Vandalia was to legally continue as the Capital until December 1, However, Governor Thomas Carlin issued a proclamation ordering the removal of all State records to Springfield by July 4, The State government began functioning in Springfield during December, In , the State repurchased the building and in to converted it into a State memorial.

Since then, the Old State House has been open to the public as a reminder to Illinoisans of the expensive folly of the early Vandalia citizens.

The cornerstone of the State's fifth Capitol was laid at Springfield on July 4, The principal speaker at the ceremony was Edward D. Baker, a Springfield lawyer and probably Lincoln's most intimate friend. After repeated delays, the Capitol was finally completed in The Greek Revival-style building, constructed of stone brought from a quarry only six miles away, was the most imposing state capitol in the west for many years.

The building has abundant Lincoln associations. Old Capitol Holiday Walks 27 Nov. Patrick's Day Parade 12 Mar. Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon 02 Apr. Moonlight Market 04 May. Springfield Pridefest 21 May.

Old Capitol Art Fair 21 May. You might also like…. Abe Lincoln Rail Splitter Statue. Adams Wildlife Sanctuary. Air Combat Museum. Baymont Inn and Suites - Springfield. Best Western Clearlake Plaza - Springfield. Cafe Moxo.

Subscribe to our Newsletter Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to EnjoyIllinois. Despite various renovations over the years, the Capitol looks much as it did when completed in The interior of the building also looks much as it did in and has numerous murals, sculptures, and paintings commemorating the history of the State of Illinois and this seat of state government.

Both the architecture and the role of the building in politics and government are key to the significance of the State Capitol. The first story of the building houses offices and hearing rooms of the General Assembly.

The second story houses the executive offices of the Governor, the Secretary of State, the Lieutenant Governor, the Treasurer, and the Comptroller.