Staff Writer
“Is that the Capitol?” asked a man, map in hand, pointing to a domed building atop a series of steps in the Capitol complex.
It’s a frequent question for those unfamiliar with the legislative landscape, but the building isn’t the place where legislators today roam during session.
The looming 25-story office-like Capitol building might be home to legislative functions today, but once upon a time it was the historic building across the complex that lawmakers called their legislative home.
Built in 1845 with several additions through the years, the domed structure served as the center for all things legislative until construction of the current Capitol building. During the late 1970s, the building was under consideration for demolition until citizens’ initiatives led by former Secretary of State Bruce Smathers (who resides in Jacksonville) helped save the facility that eventually was restored to its 1902 appearance.
Today, the two-story building is home to the Florida Legislative Research Center & Museum, which features exhibits of Florida legislative history and can accommodate meetings and receptions.
Groups visiting Tallahassee often use the building for their organizational meetings during session, but it’s also a common stop for school groups who make their way through the capital from around the state.
The Old Capitol is open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday; and noon to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday and holidays, but is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For more information, including online audio and video tours, visit www.flhistoriccapitol.gov.
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