The third - and present - Minnesota State Capitol was an ambitious undertaking for such a new state. Channing Seabury, chairman of the Capitol Commission, broke ground for the new building on May 6, 1896. The cornerstone was laid in 1898 by Alexander Ramsey, first territorial governor of Minnesota. After nine years and a cost of $4.5 million, the building was opened to the public on Jan. 2, 1905, one day before the 34th legislature convened.

The Minnesota Historical Society by statute is responsible for the works of art in the State Capitol. The Society has operated the historic site program at the Capitol since 1969. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1972. Visitors can observe their government in action during hourly tours year round, special events and educational programs.