Civil War Paintings Will Head Back To Prime Capitol Spot

The Minnesota Historical Society's decision on Thursday ends a controversial debate about Capitol artwork that flared last week. Gov. Mark Dayton stormed out of a meeting last week shortly before a panel overseeing Capitol renovations recommended the paintings stay put.

Dayton had wanted to replace some Civil War paintings to better reflect the state's entire history. He accused Republicans of distorting his position for political gain.

The historical society's decision means that four paintings will return to the governor's reception room while two other paintings will be hung in its anteroom. There was little debate and no dissenting votes.