“The dome, completed in 1915, is the focal point of the Capitol building. It dominates the four wings and rises 162 feet above them. The Capitol dome is the largest dome by volume in the United States and one of the largest in the world. It is also the only granite dome in the United States. The dome consists of inner and outer structures. The inner dome (coffer dome) is visible from the Capitol rotunda. Three observation decks encircle the outer dome. The lowest observation deck is open for public viewing during the summer months.

On top of the great granite dome stands the gilded bronze statue “Wisconsin” which symbolizes our state motto “Forward”. “Wisconsin” has graced the top of the Capitol since 1914 and is 15 feet, 5 inches tall and weighs over 3 tons. In her left hand, “Wisconsin” holds a globe with an eagle perched on it and on top of her helmet is our state animal – the badger. Daniel Chester French of New York sculpted the statue for a cost of $20,325″ (source wisconsin.gov)

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