Washington’s Legislative Building is approaching its 100th anniversary — a century under one of the most recognizable domes in the Pacific Northwest.Recorded before a live audience in downtown Olympia, Into the Archives explores how Washington built its Capitol, why architects Walter Wilder and Harry White designed it as they did, and how classical architecture became a visual language for democracy. Historian Ed Echtle and State Archives outreach archivist Ben Helle trace the building from its construction in the 1920s through a remarkable 1965 proposal that would have dramatically expanded it — and demolished the Governor’s Mansion and Insurance Building in the process.State conservator Maya Foty takes us inside the architecture and craftsmanship of the Capitol, including details almost no visitor ever sees. We also revisit the 2001 Nisqually earthquake, recent vandalism, the arrival of TVW and a century of history made under the dome.And as the Capitol turns 100, we ask a larger question: What does “the people’s house” mean today?Watch the extended video cut of the live event on YouTube: Ben mentioned that the State Archibes will be hosting tours of the Olympia Archives Building from 5-7PM on Thursday, October 22. Check the Archives’ social media for details: https://x.com/wastatearchives

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