Louisiana's Old State Capitol

by Carol K. Haase

Overview

"Stunning . . . a strikingly impressive memoir. A magically whimsical examination, a wide-ranging assortment, and a remarkable collection of full-bodied, all encompassing detail . . . a powerful tribute to the structure and all who dwelled within its walls." -Mary Louise Prudhomme, executive director, Louisiana Old State Capitol

"Carol Haase has captured the spirit of the Old State Capitol. Her insight into the fascinating history of this building enables the reader to view the Old State Capitol as a long-lost friend who has encountered countless difficulties but managed to survive over the years." -Jay Dardenne, Louisiana secretary of state

Overlooking the Mississippi River in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, a Gothic-style castle stands out in dignity among neighboring buildings. Despite the elegant architecture with impressive turrets, stained-glass windows, and pitched gables, this remarkable structure is more than bricks and iron. The first Louisiana state house is a lasting reminder of what the building once symbolized: the hope for prosperity.

During Louisiana's seminal years, the location of the state capital was the cause of fiery disputes. Originally located in New Orleans, it was relocated to Donaldsonville and eventually moved to Baton Rouge. On October 26, 1847, Baton Rougeans broke ground, commencing the capitol's construction.

Over a century the Old State Capitol and surrounding landscapes have withstood fires, Union control during the Civil War, economic depression, and hurricanes. It served as a venue to galas in support of WWI troops, rallies promoting women's suffrage, and the inauguration of nineteen Louisiana governors. Although it was replaced by the new state capitol building in 1932, the magnificence of the structure remains, serving as a public museum.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781455607938
Publisher:	Arcadia Publishing SC
Publication date:	12/21/2022
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	136
File size:	2 MB

About the Author

Carol K. Haase was born and raised in Baton Rouge and graduated from Louisiana State University in 1966 with a B.S. in secondary education. Haase began volunteering at the capitol as a tour guide in 1995. She is on the advisory board of the Old State Capitol Associates and the board of managers for the Baton Rouge Woman's Club.

Table of Contents

Chapter One Baton Rouge Becomes Capital 9

Chapter Two Building in Baton Rouge 13

Chapter Three The Early Years 19

Chapter Four Civil War and Reconstruction 29

Chapter Five Returning to Baton Rouge 35

Chapter Six Rebuilding the Castle 39

Chapter Seven Good Times and Bad 49

Chapter Eight Peace to Pandemonium 57

Chapter Nine Abandonment 67

Chapter Ten Fight for Identity and Resurrection 75

Appendix I Cast Iron Lace-The surrounding Fence 93

Appendix II Henry Watkins Allen Mounment 99

Appendix III Inaugurations of Governors Who Served in the State House 105

Appendix IV The Merci Train 111

Notes 115

Bibliography 132

Index 133