Iowa City: The Rise and Fall of Iowa's First State Capital

Iowa City: The Rise and Fall of Iowa's First State Capital

The Birth of a Capital

In 1838, when Iowa became a U.S. territory, the need for a centrally-located capital city became apparent. The territorial legislature appointed a commission to select a site for the new capital in Johnson County. On May 4, 1839, the commissioners chose a picturesque location atop a hill overlooking the Iowa River, marking the spot with a wooden stake. This would become Iowa City.

Building the Capitol

Construction of the capitol building, now known as the Old Capitol, began in 1840. Architect John Francis Rague designed the building in the Greek Revival style. Despite financial challenges and construction delays, the building was sufficiently complete for the Fifth Legislative Assembly to convene there on December 5, 1842.

Iowa City as the Seat of Government

Iowa City officially became the capital when Governor Robert Lucas issued a proclamation on April 30, 1841. For the next 16 years, Iowa City served as the center of Iowa's government. During this period, the city witnessed:

• 14 sessions of the legislature

• Three constitutional conventions

• Iowa's transition from territory to statehood in 1846

The Push Westward

As Iowa's population grew and expanded westward, there was increasing pressure to move the capital to a more central location. At nearly every legislative session and constitutional convention, the question of relocating the capital arose.

The Decision to Move

In 1857, the Iowa General Assembly made the decision to move the capital to Des Moines. Several factors contributed to this decision:

• Des Moines' more central location

• The need for a larger government building

• The westward expansion of the state's population

The Transition

The move to Des Moines was a significant undertaking. All the contents of the capitol, including large safes, furniture, and important documents, had to be transported across the prairie without the benefit of railroads or proper roads. The transition was completed in time for the Seventh General Assembly to convene in Des Moines in 1858.

Legacy

After losing its status as the state capital, Iowa City didn't fade into obscurity. The Old Capitol building was given to the newly established State University of Iowa (now the University of Iowa). The building became a symbol of the university and continues to stand as a testament to Iowa City's important role in the state's history.

Today, Iowa City thrives as a cultural and educational center, while the Old Capitol remains a cherished landmark, reminding visitors of the city's brief but significant tenure as Iowa's first state capital.