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Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue was born in Pomfret, Connecticut on April 28, 1869. His early years were spent studying the arts and humanities at home. From his study of the classics, Goodhue learned of the great architectural styles and monuments of the ages. He later used this classical foundation in the design of the Nebraska State Capitol.
Goodhue, age 38 (Historical Society)
Lee Lawrie was born in Rixdorf, Germany, in 1877, and came to America with his family at the age of four. Very early in life he demonstrated artistic ability and at one time worked in the studio of Beaux Arts sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens.
Lee Lawrie ( Bisonwerks )
Hildreth Meiere was born in New York City in 1892 to a household where art was an important part of life.
Hildreth Meiere ( Historical Society )
Hartley Burr Alexander, Professor of Philosophy, was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, in 1873. He spent his youth in the Midwest and his school years in Syracuse, Nebraska. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska in 1897.
Hartley Burr Alexander Bust ( Nebraska Capitol )
The architect who designed the Nebraska State Capitol was Bertram Goodhue. The thematic program of the Capitol was developed by Dr. Hartley Burr Alexander. Sculptor for the Capitol was Lee Lawrie, and Hildreth Meiere designed all the floor and ceiling mosaics. The building was constructed over a ten year period in four building phases. Construction began in 1922 and was completed in 1932. Total cost of the building was just under $10 million.
