I absolutely loved visiting the first White House of the Confederacy — The Alabama State Capitol.
The pups and spent about 2 hours walking around the grounds and looking at all the statues around. So much history happened here and you cant help but feel it all. I felt gratitude and reverence, and I also learned a few fun facts about it.
The Alabama State Capitol, a beacon of history perched on Capitol Hill at the end of Dexter Avenue in Montgomery, Alabama, stands not just as a structure but as a symbol of significant American historical milestones. From its role in the Civil War to its pivotal part in the civil rights movement, this building offers more than just political anecdotes—it’s a narrative of progress and pain, victories and lessons. In this blog, we dive into five of the most unique and lesser-known facts about this iconic building.
1. The Site of the Confederate States of America Birth
One of the most striking facts about the Alabama State Capitol is that it served as the first capitol of the Confederate States of America in 1861. It was here that delegates from the southern states convened and decided to establish a government separate from the Union, leading to the onset of the Civil War. The capitol’s role in this historic event marks it as a critical location in American history, reflecting a momentous and tumultuous period.
2. A Repeated Phoenix: Rebuilding from the Ashes
The current structure is not the original building. The Alabama State Capitol has been rebuilt not once, but twice! The first building was erected in 1847 but burned down in 1849. A second capitol was built, only to burn down as well in 1851. The present structure, completed in 1851, stands as a testament to resilience, having survived since then, including being touched by a fire in 1864 which caused significant but not total destruction.
3. A Design by a Druggist
Interestingly, the design of the current Alabama State Capitol was drafted by a druggist named Barachias Holt. This fact is particularly fascinating because Holt was not a trained architect, which was not uncommon in the 19th century for public buildings in smaller states. His contribution to such a monumental and historical building adds a unique twist to its already rich history.
4. The Selma to Montgomery Marches Culmination
In more recent history, the capitol steps marked the endpoint of the Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965. These marches, pivotal to the Civil Rights Movement, were led by figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. and are commemorated by a star on the spot where King delivered a powerful speech at the end of the final march. This event is a cornerstone in the narrative of the struggle for voting rights in the United States.
5. Unusual Architectural Features
The Alabama State Capitol is not just historically significant; it's also architecturally intriguing. One of its unique features is the combination of different architectural styles. The main façade reflects Greek Revival architecture, popular in America in the 19th century, particularly for public buildings. However, the interior and other additions blend elements of Beaux-Arts and Neoclassical styles, making it a veritable mosaic of architectural trends.
The Alabama State Capitol is not just a building; it is a chronicle of American resilience, evolution, and history. It has witnessed some of the most significant events in American history and stands today as a testament to the complex and often painful evolution of a nation. Whether you are a history buff, architectural enthusiast, or someone interested in the civil rights legacy, the Alabama State Capitol holds stories and sights that are not just unique but profoundly impactful.
U.S. Civil Rights Trail: The Alabama State Capitol is now recognized as an official destination on the trail along with more than 100 locations across 14 states. Make sure you make this iconic place a stop on your visit to the "Yellowhammer State."
