Old Capitol Museum
Mississippi
The Old Capitol Museum, originally known as the Old Mississippi State Capitol, served as Mississippi's statehouse from 1839 to 1903. Constructed primarily of brick, limestone, and stucco with a distinctive 94-foot copper rotunda dome, the building reflects 19th-century architectural design overseen by architect William Nichols. It was the site of significant legislative milestones such as the 1839 Married Women's Property Act, the 1861 ordinance of secession, and several constitutional conventions including those in 1865, 1868, and 1890. After the state government relocated in 1903, the building was repurposed for office space, then transformed into a historical museum in 1961. Despite damage from hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005, careful restoration preserved its historical features and artifacts. Today, the museum offers visitors insight into Mississippi's political history and architectural heritage, administered by the Mississippi Department of Archives and History.
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Tip: Visit during spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. The museum offers educational programs and may have discounts for seniors, students, and groups. Check the official website for current opening hours and event schedules.
Zajímavosti
- •The Old Capitol was the site of the first law in any U.S. state allowing married women to own property independently (1839).
- •It housed the legislative sessions where Mississippi passed its ordinance of secession in 1861.
- •The building features a 94-foot copper rotunda dome, a notable architectural element of the period.
- •It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1990 and a Mississippi Landmark in 1986.
- •Hurricane Katrina and Rita caused significant damage to the building in 2005, leading to extensive restoration efforts.
Historie
Construction began in 1833 but was delayed due to architectural issues and material quality, with William Nichols completing the building in 1840.
It served as the statehouse until 1903, witnessing landmark legislative events including the first Married Women's Property Act and multiple constitutional conventions.
After abandonment, it was renovated for state offices in 1916 and later converted into a museum in 1961.
The building sustained hurricane damage in 2005 but was restored and reopened by 2009, earning National Historic Landmark status in 1990.
Průvodce po místě
Rotunda Dome1840
A striking 94-foot copper dome crowning the building, symbolizing the grandeur of 19th-century state architecture and visible from various points in Jackson.
House of Representatives Chamber1840
Historic chamber where pivotal legislative sessions took place, including debates leading to the Married Women's Property Act and secession ordinance.
Senate Chamber1840
The Senate chamber features period furnishings and architectural details reflecting the political atmosphere of the 19th century.
Supreme Court Chamber1840
A room used historically by the state's highest court, showcasing judicial history within the Old Capitol.
Kontakt
Telefon: (601) 576-6920