Deconstruction work uncovers history at the Capitol

Crews are working on the next phase of investigative work in the Wyoming State Capitol to uncover the building's structure for further analysis. In the process, the workers have been uncovering hidden arches and historic paint. Over the course of its 125 year plus history, the Capitol has undergone numerous additions and renovations. Although there are record documents of the existing conditions, not all conditions and exact measurements are known. This work started on April 20, 2015 and will continue for six weeks. The 1888 photo,courtesy of Wyoming State Archives,  shows some of the arches in the center building of the Capitol as work started on the completion of the two wings. 

Hidden arch

Another arch was discovered on the third floor on the Senate side--by the elevator.

Area marked for deconstruction

Earlier in the week, crews identified an area to do investigative work to find out what the structure looks like behind the dropped ceiling. This was taken on the second floor of the Capitol near offices.

Historic Paint

A closer look show historical paint, which was uncovered after investigative work removed ceiling in an office on the second floor of the Capitol.

Hidden arch

Once they carefully removed the layers, workers uncovered an arch. This was taken on the second floor of the Capitol near offices. 

1888 Construction

In 1888, the center or main building of the Capitol was occupied by the Territorial Legislative Assembly and work had started on the completion of the two wings. This 1888 photo is courtesy of Wyoming State Archives.

Safety first

Work crews take every precaution when removing layers of old wall or ceiling.