How Scotland helped build a million dollar New York staircase

The New York State Capitol is home to a remarkable staircase known as the 'million-dollar staircase. ' This staircase is not just any ordinary set of steps; it is a grand and impressive structure that has captured the attention of many. Built during the latter part of the 19th century, the staircase is a stunning sight to behold. One of the main reasons for its hefty price tag is the use of sandstone that was shipped all the way from southern Scotland, specifically from a quarry called Corsehill near Annan. To help with the construction, skilled stone cutters and carvers traveled from small towns and villages such as Lochmaben, Creca, and Brydekirk. Their craftsmanship and the connections they established across the Atlantic are being honored in a special exhibition at the Kirkcudbright Galleries. Artist Hugh Bryden, who grew up near Corsehill Quarry, has long wanted to share this fascinating story. He explained, 'It's a project I've wanted to do for a number of years because I'm from near Annan, Eastriggs. ' The staircase features 444 steps and stands at an impressive height of 119 feet. In addition to its architectural grandeur, the staircase is adorned with 77 carved faces, some of which belong to famous individuals. The total cost of constructing the staircase was actually $1. 5 million, which would be equivalent to over $30 million today. The entire project took 14 years to complete and was inspired by the beautiful Paris Opera House. The original architect, Henry Hobson Richardson, passed away before the staircase was finished, and Isaac Perry took over to complete the work. Hugh Bryden noted that uncovering the story of Scotland's involvement in the staircase's construction was not an easy task. He shared, 'They were transporting 250 tonnes of sandstone a week across to build this magnificent staircase in Albany. ' Unfortunately, a fire in 1911 caused the staircase to be closed for many years, leading to a loss of awareness about its history. During this time, a myth emerged in Annan that the sandstone had been dumped in New York harbor and used to build the Statue of Liberty, which is entirely false. The skilled stone workers from southern Scotland played a crucial role in the staircase's creation. Many artists and carvers contributed their talents, with some hailing from Brydekirk, Lochmaben, and the Thornhill area. Due to the fire, only a few records remain, including one of a worker who tragically died during construction. However, Hugh emphasized that the Scots left their mark in other ways, particularly through the carving of famous faces into the staircase. The workers were tasked with carving the likenesses of notable Americans, and they began with poets and generals. They eventually carved 77 faces, and when they ran out of famous individuals, they began to carve their own faces and those of their families. Hugh remarked, 'There are heads very reminiscent of the heads you see in Annan High Street on the staircase in Albany. ' The Sandstone Steps exhibition is a collaborative effort between artists from New York and southern Scotland, showcasing art, poetry, and music. Hugh's son, Ben Bryden, and his long-time collaborator Hugh McMillan contributed to the Scottish aspect of the exhibition, while New Yorkers like Desiree Alvarez, Rohin Khemani, and Maddy Rosenberg added their talents. At the heart of the exhibition is a limited edition book designed to resemble the staircase itself, with each step featuring its own artistic event. Maddy Rosenberg, a New York artist, was intrigued by the project, which provided her with a 'good reason to be back in Scotland. ' She explained that she had never realized the connection between the sandstone used in the staircase and the brownstones in New York. Maddy elaborated, 'Corsehill sandstone was the finest sandstone, and that's why the architects demanded it for the staircase. ' She described the sandstone as soft to the touch, allowing for intricate details in the carvings, but once it hardens, it becomes very durable and suitable for outdoor use. Many people, including Maddy, were unaware of the Scottish ties to the staircase. She stated, 'A lot of people don't even realize that the capital of New York State is not New York City; it's up the Hudson in Albany. ' Maddy had previously visited Albany and seen the magnificent staircase, but she did not know its story until Hugh shared it with her. They took a tour of the staircase together, and over the years, the project gradually came together, culminating in the exhibition. Both artists are pleased with the outcome. Hugh expressed, 'There are lots of links with New York, and it's sad that, by and large, they've been lost. ' He hopes that this exhibition will serve as a small step toward rekindling those connections. The Sandstone Steps exhibition is on display at Kirkcudbright Galleries from August 3 to September 1.