"The symbol has a long history of benign use by many cultures over centuries," said Molly Morse of Kekst CNC. "Crane likely selected it because, at the time, it was understood to indicate good luck and good fortune. The symbol became associated with hatred during World War II, by which time Crane had stopped using it."

Capitol administrator Bob Ripley said he learned years ago the symbol was a common Victorian one used in jewelry to indicate friendship, and also used by other cultures.

The Capitol was completed and in use before the Nazis came to power and appropriated the symbol, Ripley said. He doesn't feel a need to go back and revise history by saying they must now be removed from those original pieces of equipment in the building.

If a valve with the symbol is cleaned out and rewrapped with insulation, it will be hidden away from view, he said. They would cost thousands of dollars each to replace, he said.

Still one worker, who wanted to remain anonymous, said it was somewhat shocking to come across the symbols, even if they predated Nazi motifs. It's a highly charged environment Americans live in now, that includes racism and white nationalism, and people are sensitive about such things.

Reach the writer at 402-473-7228 or jyoung@journalstar.com. On Twitter @LJSLegislature.

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