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The state capitol of Florida is a place you may not
have on your "to visit" list, but you should add it.
There are many sites to see and as it is the capital,
lots of history to be learned.
Here's a few places that become must sees on your tour
of Tallahassee.
New Capitol building: From the 22nd Floor observatory,
you can see the entire city and more. You can see the
seven hills of the city, Florida State University,
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University and
downtown. You can also see the canopy roads that are
shaded by oak trees and spanish moss that head out of
town. It's not much a beauty on the outside, for more
of the history, head to the Old Capitol. But the view
is something to see.
Old Capitol: Has red and white striped awnings and has
full southern charm. It has its historic points and is
fully restored. Definitely a place to see.
Other Political Spots: You can still tour the old
Supreme court, Senate and House of Representatives and
Governor's Office. You can also see the history of
these political offices by checking out the galleries
in the halls. They are filled with newspaper reports
and documents on everything from daily events to labor
disputes and racial discrimination.
City Hall: Created in 1824, the hall is on Wayne
square, the original marketplace.
Gallie's Hall: Originally it was built in 1874, then
renovated in the 1980s. The upper floor was originally
the only point for local diversion: an opera house.
Florida State University: Established in 1857, it's
main building stands on the site of the town gallows.
It started off as a seminary. Of course since than,
it's the home to many different areas of study.
Old City Cemetery: Dedicated in 1829, it's on the edge
of the city. The low headstones mark the graves of
Confederate soldiers who died in battle. There are
also graves of black soldiers who fought on the Union
side.
Churches: The gothic brick St. James Colored Methodist
Episcopal Church is interesting to see and sheds light
onto the city's history. The First Presbyterian Church
is also of interest. Legend has it slits in the
basement walls were for worshipers to have rifles
loaded to protect themselves from Indian attacks while
at church. This is the oldest church in town.
Knott House: It was on the steps of this house that
General Edward McCook of the Union Army read the
Emancipation Proclamation on May 20, 1865. Ever since,
May 20th has been a special day for the black
community in Tallahassee. The Knott family moved into
the house in the 1920s and the house has been
restored. Some of the furniture even has poems written
on it... by the wife of an eccentric politician who
lived there.
With all these sites in mind, enjoy your tour of
Tallahassee.
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