The Pennsylvania Capitol Grounds, officially known as Capitol Park, have a direct connection to the people and events that would come to define the state of Pennsylvania and the capital city of Harrisburg. Featuring a variety of monuments and landmarks, Capitol Park has created experiences for both residents and visitors that allow them to experience the legacy of the region on multiple levels.
Commemorating Events, Individuals and Endeavors that Define Pennsylvania
Set on more than 50 acres of downtown Harrisburg, the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex is comprised of buildings that are centered around the Pennsylvania State Capitol building. Constructed at the turn of the 20th century, the building replaced the first capitol which burned down in 1897. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2006 as an incredible example of Beaux-Arts Architecture but is just one of the many landmarks that define Capitol Park at the Pennsylvania Capitol Complex.
The two large sculpture groups by George Grey Barnard reside on either side of the entrance to the Capitol building. These two distinct artworks feature a combined 27 figures that are larger than life in size. Near this doorway is the Hartranft Statue, which depicts General John Hartranft, who served in the Civil War and as a governor of Pennsylvania.
Installed in 1930, the Boies Penrose Statue depicts the politician who represented Pennsylvania in the United States Senate from 1897 until his death in 1921. Nearby is the Mexican War Monument, which was erected in 1868 to commemorate the citizens of Pennsylvania who lost their lives during the conflict which took place in the mid-19th century. It is the oldest structure in the Capitol Complex.
The Coastal Survey stone, Liberty Bell Replica and Pennsylvania War Veterans Memorial Fountain are just a few of the other landmarks located throughout Capitol Park, creating engagement on multiple levels. As an illustration of that connection, Capital Shop features numerous items for sale. Additionally, organized and impromptu events of all sizes take place throughout year in Capitol Park. Public events may include rallies, exhibits, news conferences, protests and other expressions of First Amendment rights by Pennsylvania citizens while also cultivating the creation of new landmarks like A Gathering at the Crossroads.
Old and new paths across the complex literally and figuratively connect all of these features, enabling audiences to experience them as they see fit. All of it has helped Capitol Park to enable connection with residents and visitors, highlighting what it can mean for a legacy to both represent and define an entire community.
Legacy as a Means of Engagement
Numerous Capital Complexes have monuments and landmarks that celebrate their history but few have cultivated experiences with the legacy they represent for audiences in the present and future like Capitol Park. In doing so, Capitol Park serves as an essential element of the community in the present while providing a means of connection for audiences in the future.
