General Info

Over 150 years, Old Capitol has served Iowa as a seat of government and education. Over 150 years, Old Capitol has served Iowa as a seat of government and education. When the State University of Iowa opened its doors in September of 1855, the Old Capitol still housed the territorial government. In 1857, after the government moved to Des Moines, the University began occupying the building. Chancellor Amos Dean opened a library in 1857 and a museum of natural history in 1858, both on the second floor of Old Capitol.