Baton Rouge, Louisiana’s vibrant capital, offers more than just its signature Southern charm and culinary delights. It’s a treasure trove of history, where every street corner whispers tales from centuries past. From antebellum architecture to battlegrounds of the Civil War, Baton Rouge invites you to walk through its past and experience the legacy of a city that played a pivotal role in shaping the South.
The Old State Capitol: A Gothic jewel
This Gothic Revival castle, completed in 1852, is unlike any other government building in the United States. With its striking turrets and stained-glass windows, it looks more like a fortress from a medieval fairytale than a traditional state capitol.
The beating heart of the building lies within a ghost story. Sarah Morgan, daughter of the land donors who passed away in 1909, guides visitors through an original exhibit called “The Ghost of the Castle.” It’s rumored that Sarah’s admiration for the State House of her childhood tethered her spirit to the building and she now “haunts” the halls of the museum.
This castle-like structure stands today as a symbol of resilience, having weathered destruction, fire, and political storms. A visit here is not only a step back into history but also a chance to marvel at the beauty and endurance of a building that has seen so much.
The New State Capitol: A monument to Modernism
Completed in 1932, the New State Capitol is the tallest building in Baton Rouge and the tallest capitol building in the United States, standing at 450 feet with 34 floors. You can even get a stunning 360-degree view of downtown Baton Rouge and the mighty Mississippi River.
This art deco masterpiece is an embodiment of modernity and ambition. Walking through its halls, visitors can sense the history that has unfolded here. The ornate lobby, with its marble floors and intricate bronze doors, reflects the opulence of its era.
It was here in 1935 that Huey P. Long, one of Louisiana’s most controversial and charismatic governors, was assassinated. The bullet holes remain visible to this day, offering a haunting reminder of the politics that have shaped Louisiana’s history. A tour of the building gives visitors insight into the state’s legislative process, its political intrigues, and the personalities who have left their mark on Louisiana’s history.
Magnolia Mound Plantation: A glimpse into Antebellum life
For a deeper dive into Baton Rouge’s antebellum past, head to Magnolia Mound Plantation. Built in the late 18th century, this Creole-style house is one of the oldest structures in the city and provides a unique look into the lives of the people who lived and worked on a Louisiana plantation. The plantation grounds include a slave cabin, overseer’s house, and kitchen building, which provide a stark and necessary reflection on the lives of the enslaved people who were an integral part of the plantation’s operation. Magnolia Mound is more than just a preserved building; it’s a storytelling space that brings to life the complexities of Louisiana’s social and cultural history.
Louisiana’s Old Governor’s Mansion: Executive elegance
The Old Governor’s Mansion is a stately white mansion built in 1930; it’s often compared to the White House in Washington, D.C. This grand residence was also commissioned by Huey P. Long, who wanted a “Louisiana White House” during his tenure as governor. Today, it serves as a museum that offers guided tours of its lavish rooms, complete with chandeliers, gold-leaf accents, and period furnishings.
Exploring more historical treasures
Sites like the LSU Rural Life Museum offer a look into the everyday lives of 19th-century Louisianans, while the Baton Rouge African American Museum tells the stories of the city’s African American community and their contributions to Louisiana’s history. The historical Spanish Town district, with its colorful cottages and vibrant atmosphere, showcases Baton Rouge’s architectural evolution and its rich, multicultural heritage.
A city where history lives
Whether you’re an avid history buff or a curious traveler, Baton Rouge invites you to walk its streets and explore its past. Each site offers a glimpse into a different chapter of Louisiana’s story, from the grandeur of the Old and New State Capitols to the sobering realities of plantation life. Baton Rouge is a city where history lives and breathes, ready to captivate and inspire all who visit. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey through time in the heart of Louisiana.
For more info, go to visitbatonrouge.com.
Top image submitted by Visit Baton Rouge
