Celebrate America 250 with the Capitol by joining us for a year of special presentations!
Each program is approximately one hour long and open to the public.
Programs take place in Heritage Hall (323 W. Ottawa St.) with doors opening at 6:45pm.
Can’t make a program or want to see it again? Watch it online!
Links to each recorded program will be shared on this page after they’ve occured.
January
February
March
April
May
June
October
July
November
August
September
Designing Democracy: The Architectural Design & Preservation of Our Capitol
“Designing Democracy” traces how the architecture of America’s state capitols evolved from the simple Federal style of the early republic to the grand American Renaissance Revival designs of the Gilded Age, and later to the Beaux-Arts and modern styles of the 20th century. Centered on Michigan’s own Capitol and its architect, Elijah E. Myers, the exhibit explores the influence of these shifting styles and the enduring symbolism of the dome as a unifying civic landmark. It also highlights how anniversaries and preservation efforts have protected and renewed this architectural heritage, keeping the Capitol’s legacy vibrant today.
Michigan’s Constitutions & Constitutional Conventions
When most people hear the word “constitution” they think about the U.S. Constitution—but states have constitutions too! In fact, Michigan has had four! Join us for an exploration of our state’s founding documents to learn how these constitutions were drafted, hear about a couple that were not accepted by voters, and consider what our constitutions tell us about the people of Michigan and their evolving priorities and values.
Doing History in the 1870s: The Michigan Pioneer and Historical Society
In 1874, a group of history enthusiasts met in the state’s wooden Capitol to found a new statewide historical organization, the Michigan Pioneer Society. Over the next several decades they developed the state’s first history museum and published the forty-volume Michigan Pioneer and Historical Collection anthology. Discover the work of the Pioneer Society with us as we learn about their original mission, their commitment to preserving Michigan stories, and their enduring, modern legacies, including the Michigan History Museum, and the Historical Society of Michigan.
Diverse Décor: Comparing the Artwork of Elijah Myers’ Three Capitols
Architect Elijah E. Myers made history as America’s most prolific designer of state capitol buildings, creating blueprints for the Michigan, Texas, and Colorado capitols. Though similar in design, the three structures diverge in the style of their decorative artwork. Join us for an in-depth study of the ornamental interiors of these magnificent landmarks!
We Shall Defend: Michigan Governors Who Served in the Armed Forces
Twelve Michigan Governors have served in our country’s armed forces. From Governor Russell Alger’s leadership of the Fifth Michigan Cavalry during the Civil War, to Governor William Milliken’s contributions as a waist gunner on a B-24 Liberator during World War II, these Michiganders have answered the call to arms, and the call to public service. As America celebrates its 250th year, we will highlight their time in uniform and consider how their military experiences shaped their time in the Capitol.
A Journey Through Michigan’s 4th of July Traditions
As we celebrate the incredible milestone of the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence, we invite you to dive into the fascinating history of 4th of July Celebrations! Discover how Michiganders have commemorated this holiday through the years in our past and present state capitol buildings, throughout our capital cities, and at other memorable locations. We’ll shine a light on the evolution of our civic celebrations and the cherished traditions that have stood the test of time.
The Capitol in the Community: A Tour of Mt. Hope Cemetery
Many Lansing residents, past and present, share a connection with their Capitol building. At our fifth annual tour of Mt. Hope Cemetery, we’ll rediscover some of these connections, and explore fascinating history shared between the Capitol and its community.
The Architecture of Government: Michigan’s County Courthouses
Michigan is home to 83 active county courthouses, as well many decommissioned historic courthouses. Many of these civic structures have survived since the 19th century, but plenty more have been replaced with modern buildings. Join us to learn how the architecture, architects, and history of our local government buildings is linked to the Michigan State Capitol. We will also consider how the Capitol’s restoration influenced the restoration and preservation of historic courthouses across both of Michigan’s peninsulas.
Learning Citizenship in Michigan
Michigan’s early leaders recognized education as vital to the future success of our state, and the preservation of American democracy. From the school laws enacted within its walls, to the thousands of student tours it hosts each year, the Capitol building has always played a vital role in civics education. Discover how generations of Michigan students have learned about the structure of their ever-changing government, and enduring ideals of citizenship in our ever-evolving American society.
The Palladian Style: The Architecture of Elijah Myers’ Three Capitols
Elijah E. Myers was America’s most accomplished state capitol architect. Best known for his use of the Palladian architecture style, emphasizing symmetry, proportion, and elements drawn from classical Greek and Roman designs. Join us as we study how Myers applied these principles to the Michigan State Capitol, the Texas State Capitol, and the Colorado State Capitol. Through these buildings, we’ll learn how Myers created a model for monumental government buildings, with balanced façades, grand domes, and classical detailing that conveyed stability, order, and democratic ideals.
Our Capitol as a Public Forum
Every year tens of thousands of people travel from across Michigan and beyond to make their voices heard at our Capitol, Michigan’s ultimate public forum. Explore the rich history of protest, advocacy, and grass roots lobbying at the Michigan State Capitol. From women’s suffrage and farmers conventions in the 19th century, to pride celebrations, motorcycle rallies, veterans’ reunions, and environmental demonstrations. Together we’ll consider how and why people have gathered at their Capitol, and how they helped shaped the government within its walls.
Program Presenters
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Cambray Baylis
Deputy Director of Education
Conservation Specialist, Save the Flags
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Jerry Benson
Capitol Educator
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Shayla Croteau
Art Registrar
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Leith Curtis IV
Capitol Educator
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Valerie Marvin
Director of Education & History
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Jacob McCormick
Photo Archivist & Educator
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May Oyler
Deputy Director of Education
Conservation Specialist, Save the Flags
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Brian Page
Capitol Registrar & Web Coordinator
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Matt VanAcker
Director of Save the Flags