Ep 7. Old State Capitol Building/Elgin Street Sweepers

John Ratzenberger's Made in America season 5 episode 7 explores the manufacturing process behind two iconic American products - the Old State Capitol Building and Elgin Street Sweepers.

The episode starts by introducing the Old State Capitol Building in Baton Rouge, Louisiana - a stunning piece of neo-gothic architecture that has served as the center of Louisiana's government for over 170 years. Construction on the building began in 1847, and since then it has survived fires, floods, and even an earthquake. However, the building was in dire need of renovation in the 1990s, and that's where the show begins.

John Ratzenberger meets with members of the team responsible for restoring and preserving the Old State Capitol Building. He learns about the painstaking process of removing layers of paint to reveal the original colors of the building's exterior, and how they had to source materials from all over the country to make sure they were historically accurate. Ratzenberger is impressed with the amount of care and attention to detail that went into the restoration process, which took several years to complete.

Next, the show shifts its focus to Elgin Street Sweepers, a company based in Illinois that produces heavy-duty street sweepers used by municipalities and contractors all over America. John Ratzenberger visits the factory floor and sees firsthand how the sweepers are built. He learns that the company has been around for over a century and has a reputation for producing reliable and durable equipment.

The episode goes into detail about the various components that go into making an Elgin Street Sweeper, from the chassis to the brushes to the dust control system. John Ratzenberger is fascinated by the complexity of the machinery and the precision required to make sure everything works correctly. He also gets to take a ride in one of the finished sweepers, and he marvels at how smooth and powerful it feels.

Throughout the episode, John Ratzenberger emphasizes the importance of American manufacturing and the skilled workers who keep the industry alive. He talks to several employees at both the Old State Capitol Building and Elgin Street Sweepers and learns about their experiences working in manufacturing. He also reflects on the history of American manufacturing and how it has evolved over the years.

In conclusion, John Ratzenberger's Made in America season 5 episode 7 provides a fascinating look at two American institutions - the Old State Capitol Building and Elgin Street Sweepers. By showcasing the intricate processes involved in producing these products, the show emphasizes the value of skilled manufacturing labor and the importance of preserving these traditions for future generations.