LANSING, Mich., Oct. 5. 2023 — As Oct. 2 marked the 150th anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone of Michigan’s current state Capitol, members of the 102nd Legislature reflected on the significance of one of the nation’s historic landmarks, the Michigan State Capitol Building. Members of House Majority Caucus Leadership released the following statements:
“The very moment of laying the Capitol cornerstone, 150 years ago, was symbolic of the foundation and flourishing of Michigan’s ideals, values and prosperity as a state. The intention of the leadership then to make the state’s capitol more accessible to more people is the rich tradition we strive for today. This is the people’s house where the business of democracy is continuously focused on putting people first, said Speaker of the House Joe Tate (D-Detroit).
The Michigan Capitol is a work of art with nine acres of hand-painted ceilings, walls, columns and woodwork. After restoration in the 1980s and 1990s, the building won a number of national awards, including the 1992 National Trust for Historic Preservation’s National Preservation Honor Award and the 1996 American Institute of Architects’ Honor Award for Architecture.
“I join my colleagues around the state in commemorating the 150th anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone for the State Capitol in Lansing. The fact that our Capitol building is one of the first capitols designated as a national historic landmark is such a source of pride and honor for all Michiganders,” said Majority Floor Leader Abraham Aiyash (D-Hamtramck).
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