The Ohio Statehouse, The People’s House, located in the center of Columbus, hosts the Ohio General Assembly, composed of the House of Representatives and the Senate. On the first floor are the ceremonial offices of Ohio’s executive branch: governor, lieutenant governor, state treasurer and state auditor. It is one of the oldest working Statehouses in the United States. It’s distinctive architecture, historical landmark designation and museum host over 500,000 visitors annually.
Statehouse Facts & History
The Statehouse sits on a 10-acre parcel known as Capitol Square at the corner of Broad and High Streets not far from the Scioto River. Ohio achieved statehood in 1803, but it was not until 1812 that a location was selected to be the new Capital of the state. After much debate, the new Capital was named Columbus. It would be another 26 years until legislation was enacted for construction of the Statehouse.
Although the design was not yet final, the cornerstone was laid July 4, 1839. Through multiple architects, labor strife, funding issues, starts & stops of construction the Statehouse was completed in 1861. The design is Greek Revival and the construction is masonry. The limestone of the foundation is more than 18 feet deep. The source being a quarry on the west bank of the Scioto River. The Statehouse features a low conical roof rather than a dome.
The National Park Service (Department of the Interior) designated the Ohio Statehouse as a National Historical Landmark in 1978. The Statehouse was recognized as a nationally significant historic place with exceptional value or quality in illustrating or interpreting the heritage of the United States.
Statehouse Attractions
Each month the Statehouse hosts a variety of commemorative events and tributes. Scheduled events can be found on the Statehouse Calendar: https://www.ohiostatehouse.org/calendar.
Artworks and statuary can be found among the walls of the Statehouse and the grounds of Capitol Square. Seven US Presidents were born in Ohio (William Henry Harrison although born in Virginia is considered an Ohioan). The Presidents and the long history of Ohio are commemorated at the Ohio Statehouse Museum.
The Museum features an exhibit to Great Ohioans. Ohioans have made significant contributions in many fields. Nearly 100 Ohioans have received the honor including astronauts (John Glenn, Neil Armstrong), pioneers of invention (Thomas Edison, Wright Brothers), athletes (Jesse Owens, Jack Nicklaus, Cy Young).
The rotunda floor, over 5,000 pieces of hand cut marble, traces the history of the United States. The west entrance finds an engraving of the Great Seal of Ohio and the state motto, “With God, all things are possible”.
Visitors are invited to free guided tours daily given on the hour. Groups of 10 or more may schedule private tours. For more tour information see https://www.ohiostatehouse.org/visit/public-tours.
The Statehouse and Capitol Square can host private events, weddings and serve for photography sessions. To learn more about scheduling, permitting and catering see https://www.ohiostatehouse.org/events/your-event/scheduling.
Milo’s Cafe is available to lunch or dine at the Statehouse. The Museum Shop provides souvenirs of your visit.
Prior to your visit, you can research and visit the Statehouse virtually with the following Teacher Resource:
https://www.ohiostatehouse.org/visit/school-and-group-tours/teacher-resources.
On a nice day, Topiary Park should be at the top of your must visit list.
