Roosevelt High School - Bwana Yearbook (St Louis, MO)

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EWEHH THE MISSOURI STATE CAPITOL N February 5, 1911, a flash of lightning struck the dome of the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City setting the building afire. ln a few hours, despite the efforts of the local fire depart- ments, the building was completely demolished. The General Assembly of Missouri appropriated three and one-half million dollars for the construction of a new capitol which was completed in six years. This building stands on a large plot of ground in the heart of Jefferson City, overlooking the Missouri River. The grounds, which are very well kept, are dotted here and there by ornamented fountains and beautiful gardens. The building is a massive structure of white Carthage marble and is surmounted by a tall and ornate dome. The tall columns which entirely surround the structure give it the appearance of a Grecian temple, while the dome, towering to the skies, gives it an air of grace and majesty. On approach- ing the structure, one is impressed by the wide central stairway, fully one hundred and twenty feet wide. The massive bronze doors at the entrance are said to be the largest since the Roman era. lnside the building, the first thing that attracts one is the view of the dome. ln the rotunda are two curved, marble stairways leading to the second floor. On either side of this rotunda are large halls containing museums of history and natural resources. On the second floor is the governor's room with its wonderful paintings and elaborate furniture. There are also many other executive offices located on this floor. On the third floor are the chambers for the Senate and l-louse: here are two large rooms where the two legislative bodies of the State of Missouri convene. These rooms contain desks for the legislators, an exquisite rostra for the presiding officer, and a large gallery for spectators. Both chambers are decorated with wonderful paintings and art windows. The lounges for the Senate and I-louse, the Congressional library, and other rooms of importance are also located on this floor. The fourth Hoor is set apart for committee rooms and offices. , If you are ambitious enough to go into the dome, you will be amazed by the acoustic properties of the whispering gallery , wherein a slight sound is greatly magnified. Missouri has one of the most beautiful capitols in the United States, and We of Missouri should feel justly proud of this marvelous structure. LOUIS TIRMENSTEIN, JR. Eleven I 4

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. I Ten CAPITOL ATE MISSOURI ST

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