Another windy day greeted us in Bismarck, the capital of North Dakota. The Bismarck-Mandan Visitor Center, where the walk began, has a nice gift shop. It would be worth a few extra minutes to look around here.
Bismarck, at a population of 100,000, doesn't have all that much to see. We did see the former Governor's Mansion (your standard large Victorian house), a park/arboretum/golf course, a "cathedral," and some "historic" homes (including some very cute cottage-style homes).
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| This was the Governor's residence between 1893 and 1960 |
The highlight of the walk, and the reason for our visit, was the State Capitol Complex. The grounds feature a number of statues, including a striking one of Sakakawea.
The 19-story Art Deco Capitol building was built between 1932 and 1934. Nicknamed "The Skyscraper on the Prairie," it is the tallest building in North Dakota. My first impression was that it was quite hideous and incompatible with its surroundings. However, I changed my mind after seeing it up close and touring the interior. It is a fine example of Art Deco design, featuring clean lines, open spaces, streamlined curving shapes, zigzag patterns, and rich materials. From the huge chandeliers symbolizing heads of wheat to the relief work on the bronze elevator doors to the Yellowstone travertine marble on the walls, there are many pleasing details to discover. |
| Ben Eielson, one of the distinguished North Dakotans honored inside the Capitol |
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| These ceiling fixtures in the Capitol symbolize wheat |
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| The interior of the Capitol |
Walk Route: C
Capitol Building: A
Walk Documentation: B
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