Iowa Old Capitol Building - Campus Landmark and 1970s Restoration

Campus Landmark and 1970s Restoration

The Old Capitol Building housed almost the entire university from 1857 to 1863. As the school grew, the Old Capitol remained the focal point of the university, serving as a library, chapel, and armory, and providing space for classrooms and offices. The state of Iowa authorized a major renovation of the building in the 1920s, and it continued to function as a classroom and office building until the 1970s. University presidents had their offices there until the 1970s.

In 1970, the building needed another renovation. However, the university decided against converting the building into a modern office building. Instead, the offices were moved out, and with the leadership of Margaret Keyes the university undertook a six year interior renovation of the building, restoring most of it back to its original condition as a government building in the 1850s, and for use as a state historical museum. The Old Capitol Building reopened to the public on the nation's bicentennial, July 4, 1976, as a National Historic Landmark.

It was declared a National Historic Landmark on January 7, 1976.