Michael and I have both been here many times over the years, but have never actually been on a guided tour. This guided tour gave us a much deeper look into the history, architecture, reputation and story of the building and that’s why it makes the list of Boyle's Boise: 52 Things to Do and See.
Here are a few interesting facts that we learned about the Idaho State Capitol Building:
1. Idaho’s first capitol was not Boise. It was the port town of Lewiston, a few hours to the north. Idaho became a territory in March of 1863. Due to Lewiston’s initial booming growth, it was decided to put the Capitol there. After a dramatic population shift in 1890, the Capitol was moved from Lewiston to Boise. It was a difficult change for Lewiston and was contested for many years.
2. The Idaho Capitol Building was originally constructed by local inmate labor, starting in 1905. The main part of the building was finished in 1912. Later, the east and west wings were added from 1919 to 1921. Remodeling took place during the 1950’s and 1970’s and about $3.2 million in repairs were made to the building after a fire broke out in 1992. The last “face lift” the building received was from 2007 to 2009 which basically added more space, upgraded electrical and repaired some of the marble.
3. Speaking of marble the Capitol's interior is stunningly beautiful with walls and floors of marble. Large pillars also have the appearance of marble but are actually scagliola, a mixture of gypsum, glue, marble dust, and granite, dyed to look like marble. Although there is plenty of marble to admire, the scagliola was used to cut down the cost of the marble.
4. The building is referred to as the “Capitol of Light.” You will notice it is a pretty accurate description as you stand inside. The warming sunshine from outside pours in through the windows. The most impressive part of the building is the rotunda. It helps bring the light into the building, as well as being a captivating focal point. In our opinion, the best place to see (and get a good photo) of the rotunda is from the 1st floor, a level up from the Visitors Center.
5. Although not all the furniture is original, the Governor’s desk has been around since 1919. To keep the historical look of the building, replicas and reproductions of the original furniture were put in place during the 2009 restoration.
6. Both self-guided tours and guided tours are offered of the Capitol Building for free. Guided tours are 1.25 hours long, Monday - Friday at 10:00 am and 1:00 pm. If you would like a guided tour, you may reserve a spot by calling 208-332-1012. Make sure you book 2 weeks in advance, they are usually very busy. If you take the self-guided tour, like we did, I would recommend starting at the Visitors Center so you can pick up a tour pamphlet. The Visitors Center is located in the basement. You can enter from the street level, or you can enter the building through the front doors at the top of the impressive front steps!
If you would like to visit the Idaho State Capitol Building it is located at 700 W. Jefferson Street. You can visit while legislation is in session (January – March) from Monday - Friday, 6 am to 10 pm, Saturday & Sunday, 9 am – 5 pm. If they are not in session (April – December), you can visit Monday - Friday, 6 am – 6 pm or Saturday & Sunday 9 am – 5 pm.
About Me:
I have been living in Idaho for nearly my entire life and the Treasure Valley has been my home for more than 30 years. In addition to constantly exploring the city and all of its activities, I am very involved in the local philanthropy scene, and have worked in the Mortgage industry as a Loan Officer for more than 35 years now. Additionally, my husband Michael had a 20+ year career in Real Estate, so if you are new to the area and looking to lay down some roots for your family, get involved with some great causes, connect with like-minded people or just explore all that Boise has to offer – don’t hesitate to let me know!
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