When the State University of Iowa (as it was first called) opened its doors in September of 1855, the Old Capitol still housed the territorial government. In 1857, after the government moved to Des Moines, the University began occupying the building. Chancellor Amos Dean opened a library in 1857 and a museum of natural history in 1858, both on the second floor of Old Capitol.

From 1857-1863 the Old Capitol housed virtually the entire University, providing space for all offices and classrooms--including a chapel, an armory, and a fire station.

During 1858-59, most of the University classes were not in session due to financial and organizational problems. The "Normal Department" (modern day College of Education) remained open during this time and was housed in the Old Capitol until 1960. The State Historical Society found a home at Old Capitol at this time, as well. During this hiatus the legislature granted $13,000 for repairs and renovations to the building and $10,000 to build a second building on campus.

Economic times were tough during the 1860s. Faculty salaries were reduced, teaching loads were increased. Even the lawn of the Old Capitol had to be cut and sold for hay. However, by the mid 1860s, an iron fence was put around the Old Capitol to keep out grazing livestock.

The Civil War left its mark on the fledgling university. Some classes had to be canceled. Students in the Military Department trained on the grounds with real weapons. On April 18, 1865 mourners gathered on the steps of the Old Capitol for a memorial service for assassinated president, Abraham Lincoln.

In 1868 the University took over the Iowa Law School of Des Moines and made space for it on the second floor of Old Capitol. It remained in the building until 1910, when a new law building was built (Gilmore Hall).

At the turn of the century, the University planned four other buildings that would stand at each of Old Capitol's four corners. The first of these, the Hall of Liberal Arts (now Schaeffer Hall), was completed in 1902. The other three buildings were the Natural Science Building (now Macbride Hall), MacLean Hall, and Jessup Hall. The last of these was completed in 1924. The five buildings form what is known as the Pentacrest.

During the 20th century Old Capitol has been home to new ventures, such as the School of Religion (1924). It has hosted conferences and lectures. It has even been the site antiwar protests during the Viet Nam War.

The restoration of the building may have removed many of the University functions from the building, but Old Capitol still remains the heart and soul of the central campus.

For more information see the University of Iowa Fact Book for other information.