SW DE-256 South Dakota State Capitol

The South Dakota State Capitol is located in the state capital of Pierre. It is the best example of Neoclassical architecture in South Dakota and the symbol of State government for nearly 100 years. The building houses the South Dakota State Legislature and offices of most state officials, including the Governor of South Dakota.

The building was constructed between 1905 and 1910 and features a copper dome, Corinthian columns, rusticated walls of granite and Bedford limestone, and a decorative interior. The floor in the capitol building is made of terrazzo tile. The floor is said to have been laid by 66 Italian artists. To give these artists a chance to place a mark in the building (without allowing them to actually sign their names to the floor), each is said to have been given a blue stone to place in the floor. Only 55 of these tiles have been found, however. It is thought that the remaining stones may have been placed in locations now covered by walls, doors, or carpeting.

The First Lady Gown Collection

From the first floor, a marble staircase leads upstairs. In front of the staircase, display cases house the First Lady Gown Collection. Miniature replicas have been made of the gown worn by each first lady to the state inaugural ball. These replicas are worn by dolls in the display case. Along with the doll, a picture of each governor's family and other mementos are also displayed.

 

This postcard came from dakotadee (25 August 2014) Swap-bot.