The Old State House, located in Dover, Delaware, is a historic building that served as the state's capitol from its completion in 1791 until 1933.
This Georgian-style structure was the first permanent capitol building in Dover and originally housed both state and Kent County governments. The first floor features an 18th-century-style courtroom, while the second floor contains the former chambers of the state legislature.
The House chamber showcases notable portraits by Thomas Sully of Commodores Jacob Jones and Thomas Macdonough, heroes from the War of 1812. The Senate chamber houses an imposing portrait of George Washington painted by Denis A. Volozan. The building's architectural details include a gilt sunflower ceiling sham and a grand, dual stairway known as a geometrical staircase.
Over the years, the Old State House underwent several modifications, including the addition of wings and a Victorian-style remodeling of the exterior in 1873. In 1933, the General Assembly relocated to a new building, and the Old State House was restored to its original 18th-century appearance in 1976 as part of Delaware's bicentennial celebration.
The most recent restoration took place between 2005 and 2007, ensuring the building's preservation for future generations.
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