Justin Van Deursen is working on the biography of Enrico Liva—an ancestor who left his mark on architecture nationwide. From the Chrysler Building and the Lincoln Memorial to Oklahoma’s own State Capitol, Enrico's breath-taking legacy as a craftsman can be found across the country.
For one stop on his research journey, Justin connected with ODL State Archives Manager Alyssa. Together, they explored his great grand uncle's time in our state. Alyssa pulled original photos of the State Capitol's plaster model as well as payment documents for Enrico, his brother Giovanni, and their father, Giusto. Justin was amazed to get his first glimpse at their wages.
Raised in a family of Italian artisans, Enrico moved to New York in 1904 and started out blasting subway tunnels. He soon became as sought-after in the states as the Livas had been internationally, turning down projects like U.S. Senate chamber panels to stay close to family. Ahead of America250, our state archivists have been helping researchers like Justin uncover family history and highlight unsung parts of the nation's past.
Without talented minds and hands like those of the Livas, America might tell a very different architectural story. Enrico and other stoneworkers helped buildings, as Justin puts it, become "statements and interact visually with the public." Explore the State Digital Collections to find more stories about people who shaped the state.
Enrico with his son, Louis, who followed in his professional footsteps.
Giusto Liva poses with sculpted figures.
.png)