First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site facts for kids
Quick facts for kids First Missouri State CapitolState Historic Site |
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Missouri's state capitol, 1821–1826
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 First Missouri State Capitol
State Historic Site Location in Missouri
First Missouri State Capitol
State Historic Site Location in the United States
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| Location | St. Charles, St. Charles County, Missouri, United States |
| Area | 0.66 acres (0.27 ha) |
| Established | 1960 |
| Visitors | 35,403 (in 2022) |
| Governing body | Missouri Department of Natural Resources |
| Website | First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site |
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First Missouri State Capitol Buildings
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| Location | 208–216 S. Main Street, St. Charles, Missouri |
| NRHP reference No. | 69000313 |
| Added to NRHP | April 16, 1969 |
The First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site is a special place in St. Charles, Missouri. It protects the buildings that were once Missouri's first state capitol. A capitol is where the government meets to make laws. These buildings served as the state's main government center from 1821 to 1826.
This historic site is part of the St. Charles Historic District. It is located in the city's Riverfront neighborhood. The state bought these important buildings in 1960. They were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1969. This means they are recognized as very important to American history.
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Missouri's First Capitol: A Historic Place
What is the First Missouri State Capitol?
The First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site is a preserved area. It shows where Missouri's government first started. This site helps us understand how the state was formed. It teaches us about the early days of Missouri.
A Look Inside the Capitol Buildings
The First Missouri State Capitol Buildings are made of four connected brick buildings. They are narrow, with sloped roofs and strong stone bases. The first floor of these buildings had a store and homes. The second floor was used by the state government. Both floors are kept just as they were long ago.
How St. Charles Became the First Capitol
The buildings became Missouri's State Capitol in June 1821. This happened during a special meeting called by Governor McNair. Later that year, in November 1821, a big decision was made. The leaders decided that 'the City of Jefferson' would become the permanent state capital.
Visiting the Historic Site Today
You can visit the historic site to see where Missouri's government began. Guided tours are offered daily for a small fee. These tours let you explore the actual rooms where important decisions were made.
There is also an interpretive center you can visit for free. It has two floors of exhibits about Missouri's history. You can also find a gift shop there. The center offers programs to help you learn more about the first state capitol.
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