Virtual Visit: NYS Assembly Chamer
Explore the architectural and artistic masterpiece that is the New York State Assembly Chamber.
Fun Facts
Dedicated on January 7, 1879
Designed by architect Leopold Eidlitz
Moorish Gothic design
The original ceiling was 56 feet tall
150 Assembly Members
Members serve two-year terms
Assembly Chamber construction, 1870s.
Assembly Chamber completed, 1879.
Large chamber wall mural, “The Discoverer,” painted by artist William Morris Hunt.
Large chamber wall mural, “Flight of Night,” painted by artist William Morris Hunt.
Assembly Chamber grand opening reception, 1879.
Assembly Chamber with papier-mâché drop ceiling, 1889-1911.
The colorful stained-glass windows are one of the best features of the Assembly Chamber.
Modern view of the Assembly Chamber from the 4th floor public gallery.
Trivia
How long is a legislative term?
One term lasts two years, however, an Assemblymember can serve an unlimited amount of terms.
Who is the Speaker of the Assembly?
Speaker Carl Heastie is the 100th Speaker of the New York State Assembly.
How do the Assembly Members vote?
The Assemblymembers vote electronically by pushing buttons at their desk and the result of their vote appears next to their names on screens located on the chamber’s walls.
What other famous landmarks were designed by architect Leopold Eidlitz?
Leopold Eidlitz designed the Brooklyn Academy of Music, the New York Produce Exchange, and the Tweed Courthouse.
What New York State Assembly Member went on to become Governor of New York and President of the United States?
Theodore Roosevelt, serving from 1882-1884.
Is the clock on the Assembly Chamber floor original?
A clock and a desk located on pedestals in the corners of the chamber’s floor are from the original New York State Assembly Chamber of the first New York State Capitol, built in 1809.
How much do the chandeliers weigh?
The heaviest chandelier weighs 3 tons!