Iowa Supreme Court – State Capitol
Location: 1007 E Grand Ave / Finkbine Drive
Built: 1871 – 1886
Style: Beaux Arts / Renaissance
Architect: A H Picqueard and John C Cochrane / M E Bell and W F Hackney
Contractor: R S. Finkbine was the Superintendent of Construction
Description: The building faces west and is a four story granite, limestone, sandstone and concrete structure. The rectangular shaped building is located on a hill with spacious landscaped grounds to the east of the center of Des Moines. The Supreme Court formerly occupied the west side of the north corridor on the first floor. Fine wood carvings are part of the outstanding décor. The original ceiling was damaged in the fire of 1904. Fine frescoes of Greek Mythology form a series of four pictures; Justice on her throne; Columbia ( the Union ) reigning with Iowa her special favorite, sitting at her feet; Justice and Peace; and Cere, the Goddess of Agriculture. There is a large elaborately carved mahogany bench specially built for the chamber. The Law Library in the west wing, is one floor above the former Supreme Court.
See: Iowa Supreme Court / Court of Appeals
Iowa Supreme Court former courtroom – Des Moines
Photos taken 2008 and 2024
Images 15*