Florida Historic Capitol Museum

Overview

The Florida Historic Capitol Museum occupies Florida's Historic Capitol in Tallahassee, which has symbolized Florida state government since 1845. Restored to its 1902 appearance, the building stands at the center of Florida's Capitol complex. The museum is under the management of the Florida Legislature.

Mission

The museum serves to illuminate the past, present, and future connections between the people of Florida and their political institutions through programs of civic education, historic interpretation, and preservation.

History of the Building

Tallahassee was chosen as Florida's territorial capital in 1824, and the first territorial government met in log cabins. A capitol building was constructed in 1826 but never completely finished; it was torn down in 1839 to make way for the present structure, completed in 1845, just before Florida entered the Union as the 27th state.

The building was expanded several times. In 1902, architect Frank Millburn added the classical-style dome. The 1923 additions by Henry Klutho included two new wings and a marble interior, and large wings for the House and Senate chambers were added to the north and south ends of the building in 1936 and 1947.

Threatened with demolition in the late 1970s when the new capitol was built, the Historic Capitol was saved through citizens' action and restored to its 1902 appearance between 1978 and 1982. The restoration, supervised by the Department of General Services in conjunction with the Department of State, makes the former capitol one of the most thoroughly documented restoration projects in the nation. Its architectural highlights include an elaborate art glass dome, red and white striped awnings, and a representation of the Florida State Seal above the entry columns.

Inside the Museum

More than 250 artifacts in 21 rooms trace the evolution of Florida government from territorial days to the present. Restored areas include the 1902 Governor's office and the chambers of the House of Representatives, the Senate, and the Supreme Court. Exhibit panels, photographs, recordings, and interactive multimedia present the people and events that have shaped Florida.