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North Liberty Today
By the People, for the People
University of Iowa's Pentacrest Boasts Rich Architectural History
The iconic campus landmark has stood the test of time since the 1840s, reflecting the university's legacy and identity.
Published on Mar. 6, 2026
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The University of Iowa's Pentacrest, anchored by the historic Old Capitol building, has been a central part of the campus since 1842. The neoclassical Old Capitol was originally intended to be the state capitol building, built in a Greek Revival style to convey governmental grandeur. After the capital moved to Des Moines, the building was transferred to the then-struggling State University of Iowa, where it has remained the literal and figurative heart of the campus ever since. The Pentacrest also includes several other historic buildings, such as Maclean Hall and Jessup Hall, all constructed in the ornate Beaux-Arts architectural style popular among public universities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Why it matters
The Pentacrest's classical architecture and enduring presence on the UI campus have made it an iconic symbol of the university's history, identity, and academic prestige. Despite some challenges over the years, such as a fire that damaged the Old Capitol's dome in 2001, the Pentacrest has remained a steadfast landmark that continues to shape the UI experience for students, faculty, and the broader community.
The details
The Old Capitol building was first constructed in the 1840s, using local Iowa Devonian limestone and native oak for the floors, roof trusses, and supporting beams. Its Greek Revival style was intended to convey the grandeur of a state capitol building. After the capital moved to Des Moines, the building was transferred to the State University of Iowa, where it has remained the centerpiece of the Pentacrest. The Pentacrest also includes Maclean Hall and Jessup Hall, both built in the early 20th century in the Beaux-Arts style, as well as Macbride Hall and Schaeffer Hall, which feature curved fronts and grand pillared entrances in the same architectural tradition.
- The Old Capitol was first constructed in the 1840s.
- Maclean Hall was built in 1912, while Jessup Hall followed 12 years later in 1924.
- Macbride Hall was built in 1908, and Schaeffer Hall in 1902.
- In 2001, a fire accidentally caused damage to the Old Capitol's roof, which had to be replaced.
The players
Old Capitol
The neoclassical centerpiece of the University of Iowa's Pentacrest, originally intended to be the state capitol building before becoming the heart of the university campus.
State University of Iowa
The university that the Old Capitol building was transferred to after the capital moved to Des Moines, where it has remained the iconic center of campus ever since.
Maclean Hall
One of the Beaux-Arts style buildings that flanks the Old Capitol, constructed in 1912.
Jessup Hall
Another Beaux-Arts style building on the Pentacrest, built in 1924 and named after the 11th president of the University of Iowa.
Macbride Hall
A Beaux-Arts style building on the Pentacrest, constructed in 1908 and now on the National Register of Historic Places.
What they’re saying
“The Old Capitol Museum's classical architectural style adds tremendously to its prestige. Its symmetry, columns, and the iconic gold dome were fitting for an early territorial and state capitol in Iowa, and today convey permanence and scholarship, reinforcing its importance to us.”
— Jessica Smith, Leader of engagement and communications for the Pentacrest museums (dailyiowan.com)
“I think [the Pentacrest is] an iconic and signature part of the campus.”
— AJ Clauss, UI student (dailyiowan.com)
“It's the banners, the dome with the flag, and the spotlights at night [that make it my favorite].”
— Andrew Bepristis, First-year UI student (dailyiowan.com)
The takeaway
The University of Iowa's Pentacrest, anchored by the historic and architecturally significant Old Capitol building, has remained a steadfast symbol of the university's legacy and identity for nearly two centuries. Despite some challenges over the years, the Pentacrest's classical design and enduring presence continue to shape the UI experience and inspire pride in the campus community.
