South Foyer

Overview

The South Foyer has served as the primary entrance for visitors to the Capitol since the building opened. The area changed quite drastically over time. The 1990s building restoration returned the South Foyer to its historic appearance with one compromise: the crushed marble terrazzo floor remained. Installed as part of the 1936 Texas Centennial, the flooring commemorates twelve important battles fought on what is now Texas soil during the Texas Revolution (1836) Mexican-American War (1846-1848) and the Civil War (1861-1865). The South Foyer displays important historic artwork including the statues of Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston by artist Elisabet Ney and a composite that recognizes African American politicians who served Texas prior to 1900.