An Annual Ornament Funds Capitol Projects: Its Inception Story

The idea for an ornament celebrating Wisconsin’s state Capitol building actually came from an unexpected source. Cate Zueske, a key figure in this story, met the first lady of Texas at a conference for state government officials. This encounter led to the inception of a remarkable program.

How It All Began

The first lady of Texas was instrumental in starting a program for the Texas state Capitol ornament. Zueske was inspired by this and decided to take action. She recalled, "She acknowledged how beautiful our Capitol is." This recognition sparked her enthusiasm, and she encouraged Zueske to contact a small company that made Texas’ ornament.In the first year, there was uncertainty about how the Wisconsin Capitol ornament would fare. Zueske ordered a small amount, but to her delight, they sold out quickly. Even today, she still encounters people who express regret for not getting one.Over the past two decades, several volunteers have been involved in the ornament project. Currently, Zueske leads it alongside Diane Harmelink, who has contributed valuable research in recent years.Both Zueske and Harmelink are deeply familiar with the Capitol building. Zueske was elected as a state lawmaker at the young age of 23 and held various important positions in state government. Harmelink worked in state government from 1970 to 2008, taking on significant roles.Harmelink pointed out that sometimes, people who work in the building become accustomed to its beauty and fail to fully appreciate it. This highlights the significance of the ornament project in bringing attention to the Capitol's grandeur.During the 1988 to 2002 period, the Capitol underwent a significant renovation and restoration project. Zueske was closely involved in this process and remembered a lawmaker's proposal for a nonprofit fund to allow people to make donations for the restoration. This fund became a mechanism to recover historic Capitol furniture.

Ornament Design and Sales

In 2004, Zueske started the ornament project. Proceeds from ornament sales have since grown the fund to more than $64,000. Some parts of the Capitol are obvious choices for the ornament, such as the Assembly and Senate chambers. The 2024 ornament depicts the mosaics and mural at the top of the dome, which attracts many visitors and school groups.Harmelink conducts research each year for an educational booklet included with the ornament. She delves into various sources, including the Blue Book, newspaper archives, and interviews with relevant people. This research adds depth and context to the ornament.The booklet is a valuable companion gift, as Carol “Orange” Schroeder mentioned. It enhances the experience of owning the ornament. While researching the history of the Dane County Farmers Market, Harmelink discovered interesting facts about the Capitol square.Sometimes, the ornament project chooses themes outside the building itself. In the last two years, it celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Dane County Farmers Market and the 40th anniversary of Concerts on the Square.Preparation for the next year's ornament begins almost immediately after the holidays. Volunteers settle on a theme in February and have the final design by April or May. They collaborate with ChemArt, a Rhode Island company, to ensure high-quality ornaments.The goal is to have the ornament on retailers' shelves by Thanksgiving weekend. Retailers play an important role as volunteers and receive a small stipend. Schroeder estimates that Orange Tree Imports sells 100 to 150 ornaments each year. Zueske has heard from many people who have a separate tree just for the Capitol ornaments.Proceeds from ornament sales have gone to the Capitol Restoration Fund over time. From 2010 to 2014, $33,000 was used to improve the museum and visitor areas on the sixth floor of the Capitol.

Where to Buy

You can order the 2024 Capitol Ornament for $20 online at the Wisconsin Historical Society website. Ornaments from previous years, such as 2023, 2022, and 2021, are also available for purchase.The ornament is also available at the tour desk on the first floor of the Capitol and at these Madison-area retailers:Gift Shop at the Monona Terrace Convention CenterHistory Maker Space, 1 S. Pinckney St., MadisonOrange Tree Imports, 1721 Monroe St., MadisonBrennan’s Market, 8210 Watts Road, MadisonTis the Season, 6333 University Ave., MiddletonThe Bruce Company, 2830 Parmenter St., MiddletonPrairie Flowers by Hen & Chick, 245 E. Main St. Sun Prairie