The Wyoming State Capitol, originally designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1987, has received an updated recognition for its historical significance following a multi-year restoration project, Colorado Politics reports.
According to a January 6 announcement by the Wyoming State Historic Preservation Office, the updated designation, approved on September 2, reaffirms the Capitol’s exceptional cultural value to both Wyoming residents and the nation.
The Wyoming State Capitol holds a unique place in American history. Wyoming was the first state to grant women the right to vote in 1869 and the first to elect a female governor in 1924. A bronze statue of Esther Hobart Morris, the nation’s first female justice of the peace and a key figure in the women’s suffrage movement, stands in the Capitol’s underground corridor, connecting the main building to the Herschler Building.
Built over 130 years ago, the Capitol underwent a major renovation from 2016 to 2019, costing $317 million. The project addressed outdated infrastructure, added essential safety features, and restored historical architectural details. Governor Mark Gordon noted that the restoration of the “People’s House” ensures future generations will experience Wyoming’s rich history.
With the primary restoration completed, Wyoming’s legislature remains committed to ongoing enhancements of the three-story Capitol and its Capitol Extension corridor. These efforts aim to preserve the building’s historical integrity while ensuring it meets modern needs.
The Capitol’s status as a National Historic Landmark places it among 35 state Capitols nationwide with this recognition. As part of the National Register of Historic Places, the Capitol is eligible for federal protections and benefits under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966.
