Missouri has the second most farms in the country. Therefore, it is appropriate the statue of Ceres stands on top of their state capitol. She was the Roman goddess of agriculture. Her name is the origin of the word “cereal.” This Classic Revival structure was finished in 1917. On this south façade are eight majestic columns surrounding enormous bronze doors. A sculpture of Thomas Jefferson is positioned in the middle of the grand staircase. Missouri became the 24th state on August 10, 1821.