The
Massachusetts State House was begun in
1795, and completed in
1798. It was renovated and added upon in
1895. Now, one hundred years later, all its
gilt and
glamour appears to exist for the sole purpose of amusing the myriad
tourists to pour through the city of
Boston daily.
Beyond that, though, there is a fascinating study in social attitudes in America, expressed through the over 200 years of art and architecture present.
For instance, a first glance at the original section of the State House is a telling study in Federalist attitudes. The building is relatively unadorned, especially when one considers that the current shining gold dome was originally shingled. The building is also completely symmetrical, balanced. At the time, America was the only democratic nation in the world. The Republic was very much in fashion, and very much a part of the national style; this Federalist architecture displays this eloquently.
Tours are available every day except Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. And if one is lucky, he might attend a tour led by the writer.