Hallway: Engineering Iowa's First Capitol

What technology was available when Old Capitol was built?

Heat
Because gas and electric heat systems weren't invented yet, people relied on fireplaces for warmth. With fireplaces in only the four corner rooms, builders quickly realized that Old Capitol needed additional sources of heat for its central spaces. Instead of constructing more chimneys, they put stoves in the hallways and ran pipes through the walls, which radiated heat throughout the building. A cool idea that was warmly welcomed!
To keep out the winter cold and summer heat, builders installed interior shutters to all of the windows. Draperies of very heavy merino wool provided additional insulation.
Steam heat was first introduced to Old Capitol in the 1880s-1890s. During the 1920s rehabilitation, the building was fully fitted with steam heat and electricity.

Light
Before electricity, Capitol staff relied on the building's large windows as a main source of light. Candles were lit whenever extra light was needed. These candles, made from animal fat, were stored in straw boxes that hung on the walls. The straw cushioned the candles from breaking or melting. Gas light was added in the 1880s, and electricity by the 1920s.
Construction
Steel, iron, and other mass-produced materials weren't available in the 1840s, so architects constructed Old Capitol using heavy timbers and limestone cut from local quarries on the Iowa River. Masons laid brick walls two feet thick and added an additional two feet of limestone to the exterior framework-making Old Capitol a very strong structure.

Structural Improvements
During the 1920s rehabilitation, Old Capitol was gutted. All the old, fragile wood timbers were removed and replaced with steel to reinforce the entire building. The only original woodwork left today are the eight columns on the first and second floors, which are made of pine and purely decorative. Workers also placed a concrete slab under the bell tower to help stop a fire, it should occur. 80 years later this slab prevented the rest of the building from burning to the ground.
In the 1920s, the limestone was repaired and restored as well. The west portico (a porch with roof and columns) and veranda (an enclosed balcony) were also built, completing the architect's original plans for Old Capitol.