Pieces of Iowa’s Past, May 4, 2011

Pieces of Iowa’s Past, published by the Iowa State Capitol Tour Guides weekly during the legislative session, features historical facts about Iowa, the Capitol, and the early workings of state government. All historical publications are reproduced here with the actual spelling, punctuation, and grammar retained. May 4, 2011 THIS WEEK: Destruction and Salvage of the Iowa Building BACKGROUND: Iowa was the first state to dedicate its building at the Louisiana Purchase Exposition. This it did on November 14, 1903, five and one-half months before the opening of the World’s Fair. The building was an extravagant structure, but its life was temporary. Destruction of the building began on December 1, 1905