Local author and architectural designer David L. Finnigan will give a presentation and sign copies of his book at the David Davis Mansion on Saturday, May 6th from 4 to 6pm. Entitled “Thousand-Year Statehouse: The Art and Architecture of the Illinois State Capitol,” Finnigan’s book is a magnificent photo tour through the historic rooms of this unique building in central Illinois, designed by French architect Alfred H. Piquenard. Over 150 full-page color photographs, supplemented with archival photos, show the story of this monument, its sculptures and paintings, and the architects and artisans who labored to complete the New State Capitol in the 1870s to 1880s. Original research into Springfield newspapers and the State Archives has resurrected long-forgotten stories about the people who worked in and around the Capitol, and its presence as a social center in late-19th and early-20th century Springfield.

David Finnigan’s presentation at the David Davis Mansion in Bloomington, also designed by architect Piquenard, will highlight the paintings, sculpture, and architectural ornament which characterize the New Statehouse and make it a world-class monument. He will also touch on the North Wing historic restoration currently in progress.

About the Author

David L. Finnigan is a member of the American Institute of Architects. He currently works at Graham and Hyde Architects, Springfield. He has previously worked for FWAI Architects and Illinois Historic Preservation Agency. Finnigan earned his Master of Architecture degree at Southern Illinois University Carbondale in 2019.