Capitol Building
Information about the Capitol Building and Capitol Square in Richmond, VA during the Civil War.

The Virginia State Capitol Building was used by the Confederate States as their Capitol;  the Confederate Senate and House met during the war. At the same time it remained in use by the Virginia State Legislature. In addition, the Capitol Square was used as a parade ground and promenade by the citizens of Richmond.

Written Accounts

1862-02-21, Richmond Whig; President Davis will be inaugurated tomorrow; railroad companies will run extra trains; ceremonies will occur on Capitol Square, businesses will be closed
1862-02-22, Richmond Whig; very detailed description of the plans for the inauguration of Jefferson Davis and Alexander Stephens. After the ceremonies, the "President's Mansion will be open from 8 to 11 o'clock."
1862-02-24, Richmond Whig; description of the inauguration of President Davis and Alexander Stephens at the Capitol, and the lousy weather
1862-03-07, Richmond Dispatch; Tredegar-made brass piece for Cropper’s Co. on display, Capitol Square
1862-03-20, Richmond Dispatch; Governor no longer operating at his house – private office at Capitol, public office upstairs at City Hall
1862-03-26, Richmond Dispatch; update on spring improvements at Capitol Square
1862-04-07, Richmond Dispatch; Tredegar Battalion parades on Capitol Square – more than 200 men. One company has 12-pdr howitzers
1862-04-24, Richmond Dispatch; Tredegar Battalion parades, 350 strong. Cannon described
1862-04-24, Richmond Enquirer; Tredegar Battalion parades with the Armory Band in Capitol Square, and is inspected by the Governor
1862-05-05, Richmond Dispatch; “lunatic” who preached unionism at Washington Monument, Capitol Square, sent to Castle Godwin

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