Over the decades, Iowa has changed a lot. Some changes are obvious, while others aren’t that noticeable, until, that is, you take a moment to look back into the past. Not so sure what we mean? Well, you’ll definitely understand once you check out the historic footage we found of Iowa from the 1800s. It’s truly like another world.

The Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines is easily one of the state’s most recognizable sites. It’s difficult to imagine Iowa without the stately building; however, that was once a reality.
Carol M. Highsmith/Wikimedia
Construction on the Capitol, which is also called the Iowa Statehouse, began in 1871 and was completed in 1886.
Iowa PBS/YouTube
The Capitol was in the works long before construction began in 1871. In fact, a three-story brick building served as a temporary Capitol for 30 years!
Benjamin F. Gue/Wikimedia

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A huge project, it took thousands of workers to build the Capitol. Some were Iowans, while others came from other states.
Iowa PBS/YouTube
When all was said and done, it cost a total of $2,873,294.59 to build the Capitol.
Iowa PBS/YouTube
Definitely worth the effort and money, this commanding building is truly an incredible sight. It’s also the only five-domed capitol in the nation!
Iowa PBS/YouTube

Watch the video below, courtesy of Iowa PBS, for a closer look at the Iowa State Capitol’s construction.

So, the state has really changed, don’t you think? Before seeing this video, have you ever wondered what Iowa looked like prior to the Capitol’s construction? Have you ever visited the Iowa State Capitol before? If so, what did you think? Were you impressed? Did you know about the building’s extensive history? Tell us!

Want to see even more vintage Iowa? We thought so! Click here for 10 historic photos of Iowa that are a fascinating window into the past.

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