Old Louisiana State Capitol

The Old Louisiana State Capitol, located at 100 North Boulevard in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a striking historic government building that now serves as the Museum of Political History. Constructed between 1847 and 1852, the structure was designed by architects James H. Dakin and William A. Freret in the distinctive Gothic Revival style. Its unique appearance, featuring turrets and stone walls, was intentionally crafted to resemble and function like a medieval castle. This architectural choice has earned the building several affectionate local nicknames over the years, including the Louisiana Castle, the Castle of Baton Rouge, and the Castle on the River.

Historically, the building played a pivotal role in state governance after the legislature voted in 1846 to move the seat of government from New Orleans to Baton Rouge. This relocation was driven by concerns from representatives across Louisiana who feared an excessive concentration of political power in New Orleans, which was then the fourth-largest city in the United States. The Old Capitol housed the Louisiana State Legislature from the mid-19th century until the current capitol tower was completed in the early 1930s. Today, it stands as a testament to this significant shift in the state's political landscape and continues to educate visitors about its rich legislative past.

Recognized for its immense cultural and architectural value, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places on January 12, 1973, and designated a National Historic Landmark on May 30, 1974. Unlike other references to old capitals in the state which might denote former capital cities like Donaldsonville, this term specifically identifies the physical castle-like structure in Baton Rouge. It remains a well-preserved landmark that offers insight into the era when Baton Rouge transformed from a small town of roughly 2,000 residents into the enduring center of Louisiana's government.