ABOUT THE MINNESOTA STATE CAPITOL
Completed in 1905, the Minnesota State Capitol is used by the Minnesota Governor, Supreme Court, Senate and House of Representatives. Designed by Cass Gilbert, who was known for his classical style and pioneering skyscrapers, the Capitol features the second-largest self supporting marble dome in the world, works by important 19th- and 20th- century artists, and battle flags from the Civil and Spanish-American Wars. Free building tours are offered daily, as well as the special programs below.

Highlights
• Minnesota Senate, House & Supreme Court chambers
• Civil and Spanish-American War flags
• Decorative & fine arts throughout building
• Memorial monuments on Capitol Mall
• Free hourly guided tours – last tour starts 1 hour before closing
• Capitol-related books & gifts available
• Restored Rathskeller Café open during legislative session for lunch & snacks

CIVIL WAR EVENTS
The Minnesota State Capitol salutes the 150th anniversary of the start of the American Civil War with special programs throughout 2011.

Civil War Flag Day
Sat., April 9 • 11–4/Dedication at 1 • FREE.
Everyone is invited to commemorate the return of Civil War and Spanish-American War battle flags, which have recently undergone conservation work and will be back on display at the Capitol on a rotating basis. Visitors can also see artifacts, take Civil War tours and participate in children's activities.

Civil War Tours
Saturdays, April 30, July 2 & Nov. 26 • 1–2:30 • $8 adults, $7 seniors, $5 kids 6-17, prepayment required. Hear stories, see famous artwork and monuments to learn how
the State Capitol serves as a memorial to Minnesota's role in the American Civil War.

Civil War Family Days
Sat., June 25 & Thurs., Dec. 29 • 10–2:45 • $5 all ages. A family-friendly day of learning about the important role Minnesota played in the American Civil War. Take guided tours, decipher secret messages about authentic battle flags, go on a scavenger hunt, and make your own flag to take home.

Civil War History Camp
Thurs., July 14 • 9–4 • $60/$50 MHS members, prepayment required. Kids can spend a full day exploring the stories of Minnesota soldiers who served in the Civil War. Visit with a historical character, see Civil War flags, learn about Civil War uniforms, write a letter home from the battle front and more. Recommended for children 9-12.

SPECIAL THEME TOURS
At select times, the Capitol offers guided theme tours about art, architecture, the Civil War and women's history. Two signature special events are listed below. Find out more at www.mnhs.org/statecapitol.

Quadriga Starlight Tours
Thurs. & Fri., Sept. 15 & 16 • 7–8 (tours leave every half hour) • $8 adults, $7 seniors, $5 kids 6-17, prepayment required. These 90-minute tours feature performers telling stories about the construction, decoration and history of the State Capitol, followed by a trip to the rooftop for a close-up look at the 'golden horses' statue and a spectacular view of the Twin Cities at night.

Shadows and Spirits of the Capitol
Thurs.–Sat., Oct. 20-22 and Oct. 27–29 • 6:30–8 (tours leave every half hour) • $10 adults, $9 seniors, $7 kids 6-17, prepayment required. Original 1905 lighting sets the mood as visitors follow the "night watchman" on a tour of the Capitol, encountering historical characters in the darkened hallways.

School Programs for Pre-K – 12
The Capitol offers a wide range of programs on architecture, the Civil War, and state government for school groups of all ages, from preschool to high school.

MHS members receive discount on paid programs. For more information or to make reservations, call 651-296-2881, e-mail [email protected], or visit www.mnhs.org/statecapitol. For online school group reservation requests, go to www.mnhs.org/visit/fieldTrips.htm.

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