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by Jeff Sellers (Author), Tennessee State Museum (Author)
Historian Jeff Sellers, director of education at the Tennessee State Museum and the state capitol, has compiled images from archives and private collections to showcase the history of the Tennessee State Capitol. He also introduces us to the individuals who have breathed life into what has become known as the people's house.
On July 4, 1845, an immense crowd gathered atop the highest hill in downtown Nashville, Tennessee. The locals had known it as Campbell's Hill after its owner, Judge George Washington Campbell. Now it had a new name: Capitol Hill. It was on this day that the cornerstone of the new Tennessee State Capitol would be ceremoniously laid. Beneath it, a time capsule was placed with a scroll that read, Dum Tempus fugit, hoc Templum stabit, which translates to Though Time Passes, This Temple will Stand. For over 170 years, that phrase has held true. The building begun on that day and completed 14 years later is still Tennesseans' seat of government. It has seen wars, depressions, celebrations, funerals, demonstrations, debates, and compromise and remains a temple of democracy.
Author Biography
Historian Jeff Sellers, director of education at the Tennessee State Museum and the Tennessee State Capitol, has compiled images from archives and private collections. Sellers examines the construction of William Strickland's meticulous Greek Revival design, its tumultuous Civil War-era military occupation, the constant determination of preservation efforts, and the ever-changing neighborhood that surrounds it. He also introduces us to the individuals who have breathed life into what has become known as "the people's house."
