Through its majestic form and monumental style, the Texas State Capitol (erected 1882-1888) reflects the pride of Texas citizens in the culture and government of their state. Now, as we celebrate the restoration of the century-old structure and the completion of a stately new underground wing, a team of specialists in architecture, decorative arts, art history, landscaping, and labor history helps us reflect upon the history and significance of the Capitol and the American practice of commemorating democratic government in grand public buildings. Each chapter in this informative book covers a different facet of the Capitol's history, making it clear that only through the dedicated commitment of our elected officials was one of the finest statehouses of the late nineteenth century completed. The chapters are selected from the "Southwestern Historical Quarterly," which won a certificate of commendation from the American Association for State and Local History for its Capitol centennial issue in 1988.