Maine State House

The beautiful Maine State House is located in Augusta, Maine, and serves as the state capitol. The structure was finished in 1832, one year after Augusta was named Maine’s capital. The State House is modeled after the Massachusetts State House and is constructed of Maine granite. Maine was previously a part of Massachusetts until 1820 when it became a distinct state.

The Capitol building’s interior was rebuilt in 1852 and again in 1860 to make space for more state departments. To accommodate the State Library and give more office space for departments, a huge three-story wing was constructed to the back of the building from 1890–1891. The Capitol was remodeled extensively between 1909 and 1910, giving it its current appearance. It was expanded according to G. Henri Desmond’s plans, which necessitated the demolition of practically all of the existing structures except the front and back walls. While the majestic Bulfinch front was kept, the north and south wings were extended, bringing the total length of the building to 300 feet. A new dome was also added in 1910.

Maine Legislature’s Legislative Council approved the dome’s copper sheath replacement in 2014. Since its installation in 1909–1910, the dome sheath had outlived its intended 75-year lifespan. Hail damage and corrosion had pockmarked the copper, with some holes as large as a penny. The eight-month replacement effort began in March 2014 and ended in October 2014. The dome looks precisely the same as it did before the restorations, except for the hue, which will be brown for about 35 years until the copper oxidizes back to green.

The State House is open to the public year-round, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Maine State Museum can be contacted to arrange group visits. Visitors that come in on their own are always welcome. Between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and noon, guided tours are offered hourly. Maine State House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

Looking for more great spots to explore nearby? Check out the GoXplr Maine Map at goxplr.com/map/maine!