For Immediate Release
A Step Back In Time: The Restored Montana Capitol
Visitors walking into the fully restored State Capitol building in Helena, Montana, are typically awestruck. The most notable public building in the state has undergone a major, historical face-lift. The project took five years, but the restoration of the Capitol building to its original 1902 design is complete.
The cornerstone for the Montana Capitol building was laid in 1899 and the building was dedicated in 1902. The Capitol has undergone many changes in its 100-year history, including the construction of wings in 1912 and the installation of an automatic elevator in 1934. But the biggest change occurred in the 1960’s when a major renovation began to expand the building. It was during this update when most of the original designs and artworks were removed.
Today a trip into the Capitol building is like stepping back in time. Relying mostly on historical photos, contractors from around the country have restored the Capitol to its original beauty. No detail has been overlooked. Everything from doorknobs featuring an engraved state seal to the restroom flooring is historically accurate. Also, after a nearly fifty-year absence, the original chandelier from the Senate chamber is back in its original position overlooking the remodeled room.
The most spectacular piece of the restoration is the barrel vault ceiling. The arched skylight ceiling is made of 90 stained-glass windows and is held in place by red-oak frames. A must see for anyone interested in stained glass, this centerpiece is located in the building’s rotunda which also boasts beautiful green and red columns.
Readers wanting more information on the newly restored Capitol building should contact the Helena Chamber of Commerce at (406) 447-1530.
Editors or writers wanting more information should contact Helena Chamber of Commerce, at (406) 447-1530.
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