TN-3A-34 Tennessee State Capitol

Marker text: TENNESSEE STATE CAPITOL

Designed by William Strickland, noted Philadelphia architect who also designed the tower of Independence Hall. Construction was commenced in 1845 and completed in 1859. Strickland died in 1854 and is entombed in the north portico. His son, Francis, supervised construction from 1854 to 1857. Slaves and convicts quarried and transported limestone for the Capitol, which was used as a fortress during the Civil War. President and Mrs. James K. Polk are buried on the east lawn.

Tennessee Historical Commission