Though America was at war in 1918 and the Eastern States Exposition temporarily halted, Joshua L. Brooks used his powers of persuasion to convince the Massachusetts Legislature and a highly skeptical governor to spend $50,000 to erect the Massachusetts Building. Architect James H. Ritchie was hired to design an almost perfect replica of the old Massachusetts Statehouse. The building was dedicated in 1919 and marked the official launching of the Avenue of States. The lion and unicorn were placed on the façade parapets in 2006, completing a major renovation project. Today, building exhibits feature agricultural and horticultural exhibits as well as native products, tourist attractions and entertainment on the lawn. You’ll also find a variety of foods from crisp apples to selections from the sea as well as Massachusetts-crafted items and travel information.