Corn Palace Onion Domes
LOCATION
Mitchell SD
The Mitchell Corn Palace — dubbed “The World’s Only Corn Palace” — is an iconic Moorish Revival landmark in Mitchell, SD, originally constructed in 1921 and later crowned with distinctive onion domes and minarets in 1937. In 2015, the Palace underwent a $7.2 million renovation, including the fabrication and installation of three new architecturally reinforced domes to replace wind-damaged originals. Evergreen Creative was engaged to fabricate and install the largest of these onion domes — positioned prominently at the center of the roofline — to restore both structural integrity and visual impact.
Fabrication was handled offsite and precisely matched the historic style, with bold colors and curved form that echo the Palace’s Moorish and Russian-inspired domes . Collaborating closely with crane operators, city authorities, and Corn Palace management, Evergreen successfully executed the hoisting and positioning of the dome using specialized rigging.
The new dome stands as a vibrant architectural landmark, proudly completing the trio atop the Palace roof and reinstating the iconic skyline silhouette beloved by approximately half a million annual visitors. The successful project showcases Evergreen’s ability to combine detailed fabrication, heritage-sensitive design, and urban logistics to restore and enhance cultural icons. Today, the refreshed dome continues to crown the Palace — home to sports events, community gatherings, and the celebrated annual corn-themed murals.