State Capitol: It's a nice place to visit
The Michigan State Capitol is located just a few blocks south of LCC's downtown campus. Photo by Julie Newell
By Julie Newell
Editor in Chief
One of Michigan’s most well-known historic landmarks, the State Capitol, sits just down the road from LCC’s main campus in downtown Lansing.
The Capitol building has been open since January of 1879 and features beautiful architecture and Michigan’s rich history.
“I love history, I have a degree in history,” Capitol Educator and Photo Archivist Jacob McCormick said. “So, it’s been a natural fit (and) and great time to work here.”
The Capitol building not only serves as a workplace for members of the Michigan Government, but it also available for free guided tours to the public.
Cambray Sampson, assistant director of the Michigan State Capitol Tour, Education and Information Service, commented on the guided tours.
“We go through the history of the Capitol, political process and Michigan history,” Sampson said.
The guided tours happen at the top of each hour Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“We have a staff of eight that gives the tours here,” McCormick said.
The visitors’ center, where the tours begin, has been moved to Heritage Hall, which can be accessed from the outside, off of West Ottawa Street.
Sampson said community members are encouraged and welcome to attend various political sessions at the Capitol as well.
“Session is held in the building here and is open to the public, as are committee meetings,” Sampson said.
According to Sampson, Senate meetings typically start at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
The House of Representatives will typically convene at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, as well as at noon on Thursdays.
Sampson said the meetings are similar to a school schedule; meaning more meetings will happen in the fall and not as many take place in the summer.
“Attending session is always a good idea to get an idea of what’s going on in and around Michigan government,” Sampson said.
The agendas for sessions are posted online and can be found at legislature.mi.gov.
According to Sampson anyone in the community can also meet with their legislator or the legislative staff.
“If you have a chance, you can actually set up meetings with your legislator, if there’s any interest in politics or in specific legislation,” Sampson said.
To learn more about the Michigan State Capitol building and all that it offers, go to capitol.michigan.gov.
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