State Capitols Visited by Andrew Schoolnik

State Capitols:  Democracy in Action

This is where democracy happens.  U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis described this best.  He said states can “serve as a laboratory; and try novel social and economic experiments without risk to the rest of the country.”  This page has photographs of these democratic laboratories.

These buildings influence us greatly.  More specifically, it is the work that takes place inside of these walls that influence us.  These are public buildings.  They are available for everyone to visit.  Among Schoolnik’s many travels, state capitols have always been a favorite place to tour.

State Capitols:  Stately Structures

Most state capitols are built with formidable porticos.  These are buildings that have tall domes.  Schoolnik found these buildings to be almost instantly recognizable.  This design style is a noteworthy nod to the ancient Greeks.  This seems to have influenced the design of capitol buildings in Denver, Colorado.  Also this is true of the capitol building  in Jackson, Mississippi.

Others are built as sky scrapers.  These buildings appear to be giant office towers.  They can be seen from great distances.  The capitol building in Tallahassee, Florida, meets this description.  So does the capitol in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

State Capitols:  Surreal Surroundings

Another commonality among these stately structures is a democratic decorum.  It almost feels necessary to stop in awe of the surroundings.  During legislative sessions the buildings are buzzing with activity.  There is less activity during the rest of the year.  This allows a visitor time for peaceful reflection.

In addition, many of these buildings are surrounded by beautiful grounds.  They are surrounded by fields and flowers.  This is particularly true of the capitol building in Bismark, North Dakota.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inside State Capitol: Colorado
Denver, Colorado