Massachusetts State House

The Massachusetts State House, also called the 'new' State House, was built in 1798 and operates as the state capitol and seat of government of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. It overlooks the Boston common, and is recognizable by the gilt gold dome topped with a lantern and pine cone. Originally, the dome was made of wood shingles and leaked terribly, then replaced with copper in 1861. The front of the building features an elevated portico with classical Corinthian columns, set against the red brick of the facade. A wooden codfish hangs in the House of Representatives chambers, representing the importance of the fishing industry to the Commonwealth. The building was expanded in 1895 with a large annex, and in 1917 marble wings were added. This is one of the stops on the Boston Freedom Trail, and guided tours are offered daily and are free of charge.