Product Description

A magnificent celebration of America's state capitol buildings.

These glorious buildings are, in the author's words, "the homes of history," where laws are passed, where democracy is enacted, where history is written. Though each state capitol bears some similarity to the other forty-nine, each in its architecture and design reflects uniquely the pride of its state, both culturally and historically.

For this unprecedented project, photographer Tom Patterson traveled to each of America's fifty state capitals to capture the architectural beauty and dignity of its capitol building in glorious large-format color images.

Writer Susan W. Thrane reveals fascinating details about each capitol building's beginnings: - the events surrounding construction - background on its architects and builders - dimensions and costs - primary features and main rooms - unique furnishings and works of art.

The book also discusses important moments in the history of each building and the state itself, including: - the origin of the state's name - its capital city - when the state was admitted to the Union, and - the number of members in its legislative bodies.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #259868 in Books
• Published on: 2005-09-12
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 336 pages

Features

• ISBN13: 9781550464573
• Condition: USED - VERY GOOD
• Notes:
• Click here to view our Condition Guide and Shipping Prices

From Booklist
This lovely large-format book takes readers on a cross-country tour of all 50 state capitals, not for the purpose of comparing life in this wide variety of city and town environments but to visit each capital's capitol--that is, the building that houses the state legislature. If anyone believes that all capitol buildings are the same across the nation, think again--or, better yet, take an informative, luxurious trip through the pages of this volume. Yes, there are the traditional domed structures a la the federal capitol in Washington, D.C. (such as those found in Sacramento, California, and Austin, Texas). But take a look at the unusual ones in Albany, New York, and Honolulu, Hawaii. Accompanying the beautiful full-color interior and exterior shots is sprightly text describing design, decoration, and construction. For history buffs as well as travelers. Brad Hooper
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Review
Handsome, readable book... each capital receives a brief, detailed, and engaging review. (C.W. Westfall Choice 200606)

Lovely large-format... informative, luxurious... accompanying the beautiful full-color interior and exterior shots is sprightly text describing design, decoration, and construction. (Brad Hooper Booklist 20051201)

Devotes to each structure six pages of informative descriptions and color photos of majestic exteriors, ornate interiors, sculpture, and state-symbols. (Russell T. Clement Library Journal 20060401)

Beautiful and informative... This book is a pleasing read and a nice way to travel without leaving your chair. (Dan Hays Salem Statesman Journal )

Domed pomp and coffered circumstance... from Ohio's oddly undomed pile to Vermont's simple charmer. (David Elliott San Diego Union-Tribute )

For anyone with a real interest in the places across the nation 'where democracy is enacted'... photography is undeniably beautiful. (John Mark Bberhart Kansas City Star )

About the Author
Susan Waddell Thrane practiced law in Ohio before writing County Courthouses of Ohio. She is now involved in historic preservation in Thetford, Vermont, where she is a member of the local renovation and restoration committee.

Tom Patterson's photography has appeared in a wide range of publications. His previous book, County Courthouses of Ohio, was also co-authored by Susan Waddell Thrane. He lives in Dayton, Ohio, where he operates a photography and graphic design studio.

Customer Reviews

Beautiful Photography
If you're interested in architecture or history - especially if you want a flavor for the rich variety of our states and their capitols, this is a wonderful book. The large format photography is excellent and, according to the photographer, used only available lighting. It provides a real sense of the buildings and what has inspired each state. The text also provides a wealth of information about each building. I wish the book had been arranged by when each state attained statehood. A great gift for the traveler for the person who wishes they could travel. A wonderful reference for the library. Or, for me, the latest book on my coffee table.

America's Palaces
This is a very well executed book. The images are first rate and the text is highly informative. Every state capitol building is covered extensively and the book is full of great photographs, every state capitol building gets the same indepth coverage. I liked how the book is done in chronological order, you get to see the capitols evolve and see what was considered opulent at the time. I have been waiting for a book like this for some time and am so pleased that Ms. Thrane has put out such a wonderful book. Thank you.

Beautiful book
Purchased as a gift for someone who loves to visit the State Houses.
Beautiful photos and history of each capitol- couldn't be more pleased.