Everybody takes pictures of the Capitol from various lower points in the city. But how many times have you seen photos of the Capitol FROM the Capitol?
Back in July 2008, a group of Americorps employees working with the DNR assisted in “falcon-sitting” some fledgling falcons in a nest on top of the Capitol. They got some great education about falcons and shot some great views in the process.
The area around the center dome has a large platform to make maintenance easier.
It offers some specacular views of the city, as well as an upclose look at the green velvety smaller domes.
Ever looked down Locust street from this angle before?
Did you know that the green is actually copper? It tarnishes almost immediately to the velvety green we’re all familiar with. I’ve seen it polished once in my lifetime and it totally changed the look of the building.
Here’s a view of the Wallace Building on Grand & E 9th. Those big yellow windows usually reflect the Capitol down to whoever’s standing on the street level.
The watchful falcon mother kept close by while people were near her nest. Here she is perched on top of one of the green domes.
Here’s one of the falcons with some fresh prey. Falcons eat birds and animals smaller than themselves. They’ve been helping control the pigeon and grackle population around the city and they sometimes pick off squirrels and rodents.
Falcon prey:
The north view from the Capitol:
A falcon in flight over the dome of the Ola Babcock Miller building (formerly the State Historical Society.)
A quick photo of the inside of the Capitol attic. I’d love to get more access to photograph in there!
As always, I want to hear from you if you’ve got access to a cool hidden place in Des Moines that I can photograph. Leave me a comment here on the website or shoot me an email at kelli.griffis@gmail.com.
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