The Ohio Statehouse

Cleaning up some files again...ran across this picture from the Statehouse Museum grand opening, of which Columbia Gas of Ohio was a sponsor.



The major donors were presented with a glass...thing, as thanks for our efforts. It reminded me of The Fickle Finger of Fate award that was a running gag on the old Rowen & Martin's Laugh-In show from the 1960's.

But seriously, the museum is a real treasure. I think most of us who work in the Ohio Statehouse appreciate its history. The first time I entered the building was in the spring of 1982 when I interviewed for an internship, and I was in awe of the place. I still feel some of that awe every time I enter the building.



The cornerstone was laid in 1839, but it took until 1861 for the building to be completed. It is an excellent example of the Greek Revival style of architecture. Before it was finished, Abraham Lincoln made a speech from the east steps in September of 1859 while campaigning for President. He returned in February 1861, about a month before being sworn in as President, to address a joint session of the legislature. The large chair that sits on the Speaker's platform in the House chamber is known to this day as the Lincoln Chair. Lincoln's last stop at the Statehouse was when his body laid in state in the Rotunda on April 29, 1865.

The Rotunda, with a bust of Lincoln prominently displayed.

When I first worked at the Statehouse, it had been divided into many small offices, and the place had fallen into disrepair and was generally a mess. Thanks to the foresight and dedication of some of its denizens, a major reconstruction took place during the 1990's, and it has been masterfully restored to its original beauty. That might be the best $140 million ever spent. It is a special place.

If you find yourself passing through Columbus, take the time to tour the Statehouse and the Museum. Both will be well worth your time.