Feb 01 2010
North Dakota’s State Capitol: Skyscraper on the Prairie
When North Dakota’s original, traditional-styled capitol burned in 1930, it was replaced with a much more modern building. Termed the “skyscraper on the prairie,” the 19-story capitol is visible for miles around.
A free guided tour of the building includes the House and Senate chambers, the grand hallway, and the “monkeywood” room. You’ll learn about the symbolism and practicality of the design.
Riding the elevator to the 18th-floor observatory, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of Bismarck from the windows that look out in all directions.
If your kids talk you into it, you might even take the stairs when you return to the first floor, and your children will likely be at the bottom while you’re still on the 3rd or 4th floor.
Perhaps the most interesting thing I learned at the capitol is that North Dakota’s legislators do not have individual offices. They have a desk in their respective chamber, and if they want to meet with a constituent, they go out into the hallway where acoustically-designed alcoves allow for conversations. Other than that, they must conduct their business at their desks. Do other states have setups like this? Minnesota certainly does not; the capitol and surrounding buildings are filled with legislator offices.
Whether visiting Bismarck or passing through North Dakota on I-94, take some time to stop at this unique state capitol. Parking is free, the tour is free, and the view is amazing.
This must be the most unique capitol Building in the country.
In Michigan the legislators not only have offices but nice staffs as well. Not to mention great salaries and full pensions after 6 years.
Thanks for chiming in, Tim. Minnesota’s legislators also have nice staffs to go along with their offices. This makes me wonder if there are good reasons that North Dakota has a budget surplus.
As to the uniqueness of the capitol building, wait until you see my pictures of Louisiana’s. You’ll have deja vu.
Linda
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