The Golden Secret: 7 Shocking Facts About Des Moines, The Real Capital Of Iowa

Des Moines, Iowa. That is the definitive, current answer to the question of "What is the capital of Iowa?" As of December 15, 2025, Des Moines stands as the political, administrative, and most populous hub of the Hawkeye State, a distinction it has held for well over a century. However, the story of how this city earned its capital status—and the surprising secrets hidden within its golden dome—is far more complex and fascinating than a simple one-word answer.

The city, which is also the county seat of Polk County, has evolved from a humble military outpost into a modern metropolitan area with a powerful, specialized economy. While many people think of cornfields when they think of Iowa, Des Moines is a vibrant center for culture, finance, and, most notably, the insurance industry, earning it a significant national reputation.

The Definitive Profile: Des Moines, Iowa's Capital City

Des Moines is not just the seat of government; it is the economic and cultural engine for the state. Its location, history, and unique architectural landmarks solidify its importance to the region and the entire Midwest.

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• Official Status: Capital and most populous city in Iowa.
• County Seat: Polk County (with small portions extending into Warren County).
• Original Name: Established in 1843 as Fort Raccoon, later renamed Fort Des Moines. The "Fort" was officially dropped in 1857.
• Capital Designation Date: Officially designated as the state capital in October 1857, moving from the original capital, Iowa City.
• Location: Central Iowa, at the confluence of the Des Moines River and the Raccoon River.
• Nickname: "Insurance Capital of the World" or "The Hartford of the West" due to the high concentration of insurance companies.
• Tallest Building: The 801 Grand building, which is also the tallest building in the state of Iowa.
• Key Economic Sectors: Insurance, financial services, publishing, and government.

The Shocking History: Why the Capital Moved from Iowa City

The decision to move the capital was a hotly debated topic in the mid-19th century, driven by the rapidly expanding population and the desire for a more centrally located government seat. Iowa's first capital was not Des Moines, but the eastern city of Iowa City.

Iowa City was designated as the capital when Iowa became a territory in 1838. The Old Capitol Building in Iowa City, a beautiful Greek Revival structure, was completed in 1842 and served as the statehouse for the first decade and a half of statehood.

The Push for Centralization and Western Expansion

As settlers rapidly moved west, the geographical center of the state shifted. By the 1850s, Iowa City was deemed too far east to efficiently serve the growing populace and the needs of a state expanding toward the Missouri River.

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In 1855, the Iowa General Assembly voted to relocate the capital to Des Moines, a city that was much closer to the geographical center of the state. The official transfer of the capital was signed by Governor James Grimes in October 1857, marking the end of Iowa City's reign and the beginning of Des Moines' ascent.

The transition was not instantaneous. Government operations were initially housed in a temporary structure known as the "Brick Capitol" in Des Moines while the permanent, opulent Iowa State Capitol building was being designed and constructed.

7 Fascinating Facts That Define Des Moines Today

Beyond its political function, Des Moines is a city rich in unique architecture, economic power, and cultural significance. These facts illustrate why the capital is a major Midwestern destination.

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1. The Capitol Building is a One-of-a-Kind Golden Marvel

The Iowa State Capitol is perhaps the city's most iconic structure, and it holds a national record. It is the only five-domed capitol building in the entire United States. The central dome is a stunning example of Renaissance Revival architecture, and its brilliance comes from the liberal use of gold.

The dome is covered in 23-karat gold leaf—specifically, 23.75 karats—which gives it its unmistakable, brilliant gleam visible for miles. The construction of the current Capitol building began in 1871 and was a massive expression of faith in the state's future.

2. It's Known as the "Hartford of the West"

While government is a major employer, the true economic powerhouse of Des Moines is the insurance and financial services industry. The city is home to the headquarters or major operations centers for numerous global insurance companies, giving it the nickname "The Hartford of the West" (a nod to Hartford, Connecticut, another insurance hub). This concentration of finance and insurance firms gives Des Moines a small but powerful economy with a wide array of job opportunities.

3. The City Started as a Military Post

Des Moines' roots are military. It was established in 1843 as Fort Raccoon, a military post built to control the fur trade and protect the rights of the local Native American tribes. It was later renamed Fort Des Moines and only officially became "Des Moines" in 1857 when it was incorporated as a city and became the capital.

4. Home to the Iowa State Fair

One of the most significant annual events in the entire state—and a major economic driver for the capital region—is the Iowa State Fair. This massive agricultural and cultural event draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every August. The fair is famous for its butter cow sculpture, its grandstand concerts, and its deep-fried foods, having a substantial economic impact on the city's hotels, restaurants, and transportation services.

5. A Major Hub for the Presidential Caucuses

Every four years, Des Moines becomes the epicenter of American politics. As the capital of the state that holds the first-in-the-nation presidential caucuses, the city is flooded with presidential candidates, campaign staff, and national media, making it a critical stop on the road to the White House.

6. The Confluence of Two Rivers

The city's strategic location is defined by water. Des Moines is situated right where the Des Moines River and the Raccoon River meet. This confluence was a key factor in the establishment of the original fort, providing both defense and a vital transportation route for early settlers and traders.

7. A Growing Arts and Culture Scene

Beyond its political and financial identity, Des Moines boasts a dynamic cultural scene. Attractions like the Des Moines Art Center, the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and the East Village shopping district offer a diverse collection of vibrant neighborhoods and awe-inspiring attractions for both residents and tourists. The city is actively working to shed the stereotype of "just cornfields and insurance conventions."

The Modern Des Moines: A Powerful Midwestern Hub

Today, Des Moines is a thriving metropolitan area that is continually growing and diversifying. While the government buildings and the iconic State Capitol remain the core symbols of its capital status, the city's identity is equally tied to its economic resilience and high quality of life.

The city's strong financial sector provides stability, and its commitment to arts, culture, and major events like the Iowa State Fair ensures a lively atmosphere. Whether you are visiting the gold-domed Capitol, exploring the historic East Village, or conducting business in the financial district, Des Moines is a Midwestern capital that is both historically significant and future-focused.