Community Capitols In Baton Rouge
Once a week we like to encourage our patients to learn something new about their community, enjoy a community activity, or explore the many wonders of Baton Rouge and the surrounding areas. Today we will discuss the community capitols in Baton Rouge. This is a great topic for those who enjoy history and/or architecture.
The Old State Capitol
Built in 1847, the Old State Capitol building is not just any building. It is a striking Gothic-Revival castle. Noteworthy from both an architectural and historical perspective, this eye-catching structure is situated standing high on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River.
The original castle was burned by the Union Army, but was repaired in 1882 and served as the state capitol until the new State Capitol building was erected and opened in 1932. Now, as the Museum of Political History, the Old State Capitol is a venue for various events and rented out for weddings and other occasions. The museum also houses a number of exhibits including:
- The Governors' Portrait Gallery
- The Legacy of Huey Long
- Baton Rouge
- The Civil War
- And More
The museum is located at 100 North Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA.
The New State Capitol
Built in the early 1930s, the present Louisiana State Capitol building stands 450 ft. high and has 34 floors. The architecture includes limestone from a variety of countries. Two historical statues are featured flanking the staircase. Another bit of history includes the fact that the new capitol was built as a result of the efforts of Huey Pierce Long, a Louisiana politician. Long eventually became a member of the U.S. Senate and was assassinated in the same Louisiana State Capitol building that he fought so hard to have built.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, visitors can tour the capitol building located at 900 North 3rd Street in Baton Rouge, LA, and visit the observation deck for views of the city.