Michigan's political leaders gathered on the Capitol's glass floor Wednesday afternoon to officially ring in the 125th anniversary of the state's Capitol building.
About 100 legislators and state employees, including members of the Michigan Supreme Court and Gov. Jennifer Granholm, attended the event.
A theme throughout the event was the Capitol's rank among the most visited capitols in the nation, attracting 300,000 people a year.
"The most exciting part of the celebration is that we are in the top five states with visitors at the Capitol," said Rick Johnson, Speaker of the House.
Without a big population base around the Capitol, the large amount of visitors each year is something that Michigan should take pride in, Johnson said.
Participants at the event received a commemorative anniversary coin, designed by Rep. Steve Bieda, D-Warren. The design features the Capitol building on one side with the phrase, "dedicated to the people of Michigan."
Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Maura Corrigan spoke of her experiences within the Capitol and the pride she takes working at the historic site.
She said the building's restoration from 1989 to 1992, which brought the building back to its near-original design was positive for the Capitol.
"It's just terrific to be part of the anniversary," Corrigan said.
The Supreme Court room is housed on the third floor of the Capitol.
A Capitol artifacts exhibit, including memorabilia and pictures, was unveiled at the event, and will be available for public viewing throughout the anniversary year at the Capitol building. The design for the new Michigan quarter, set for release on Jan. 26, was also showcased for the crowd.
The Rev. Geoffrey Drutchas, senior pastor for St. Paul United Church of Christ in Taylor was one of few nonpoliticians at the event.
"(This is) a great kick off for what we all hope is a great year for the history of the Capitol," he said.
Jerry Lawler, executive director of the Michigan Capitol Committee, said the gala serves as a prelude to future events. A dinner sponsored by the committee and the Greater Lansing Historical Society will take place in May.
Due to Michigan's budget problems, the planned celebratory events are privately funded, said Lawler.
"It's low-key," he said. "The building needs celebration, but given economic times, it's not the time to elaborate."
