The building rises feet from the ground to the statue of "Commonwealth" and feet deep, and covers approximately two acres of space. Occupying an elevation called "Capitol Hill," it can be seen from almost all sides. The dedicatory ceremonies were impressive. Pennypacker, who introduced the President, saying "of all the rulers of the earth, the greatest is the President of the United States.
A photographer for William H. Rau Studios, who appears to the right of the center in the picture, captured the spirit of the event. Rau was one of the most highly respected men in his profession and had photographed many important events and people. President Theodore Roosevelt, who called the new capitol the "handsomest building I ever saw" stands in the center clutching what probably is his speech in his right hand. He had discarded his top hat despite the rain that caused many in the crowd to raise their umbrellas.
Looking at the image, one can almost hear him proclaim in his high pitched voice that "in every crisis of our government the attitude of Pennsylvania has been of crucial importance, as the affectionate name of Keystone State signifies. Pennypacker is to the right of the President, arrayed in gubernatorial dignity-- black suit, bow tie, cape, white hair, mustache, beard, and glasses.
These were later postponed when the Legislature voted to tear down the remaining brick structure of the burned-out Hills Capitol and replace it with a larger and more modern structure, appropriate for a state that was then an industrial giant. Cobb's well-intended ideas and design for the new, grand building looked good on paper. However, part way through the project, the Legislature realized there were not enough funds to complete the building according to the plans they had approved.
They instructed Cobb to provide only the shell of the building and make it functional. Although never completed to the full scale that the architect intended, the Cobb Capitol served an important purpose in Pennsylvania history by allowing the seat of government to remain in Harrisburg. Dissatisfied with the end result, in , the Legislature again issued a design competition to complete the existing Cobb Capitol with funds that were now accruing through recovered debts owed to the State.
A young aspiring Philadelphia architect named Joseph M. Huston won the competition. Could we cut out the rotten core of our state government simply by relocating it?
In , Dr. Filipe Campante and Dr. Pennsylvania is toward the top right, just above the red line. Voter turnout in state elections is actually lower when the capital is in an isolated location. The result: bribery, corruption, and extortion are far more likely to occur when nobody is watching.
It is an example of outstanding architecture, with collections of art and scultpture, including large murals.
The capitol dome rises feet. This vaulted dome weighs 52 million pounds, and was modeled after St. Walk across a plaza to the Forum building, housing the State Library, an extensive Law Library and genealogical search room for visitors. You will want to reserve your tour as far in advance as possible.
Allow 40 minutes for a tour.
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