Original 1916 Capitol Dome Light

This globe light was installed on top of the Capitol’s dome in 1916, just in time for the Capitol building’s grand dedication ceremony.

Due to decades of exposure to the elements, it was removed in the early 1990s. “When we were taking the light fixture off, pieces of it actually fell apart in our hands,” stated David McKay, Facilities’ project manager at the time.

The bulb was then replaced with one that is currently gracing the dome, and the original has been carefully pieced back together and displayed here.

Knowing that the globe fixture would be placed hundreds of feet above the ground and was not intended to be seen closely, it is with great appreciation to know that special care and attention was taken to create a fixture with thoughtful design and ornamentation, continuing the pride and workmanship seen throughout the Capitol building.

Capitol Preservation Board
Inter-Mountain Electric Company, 1916 Loan courtesy of Utah State Historical Society, 1995-045-001
(Located in the Utah State Capitol Building.)