Old Mississippi State Capitol facts for kids
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Old State Capitol
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Old State Capitol in 2018
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 Location in Mississippi
Location in the United States
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| Location | 100 N. State St., Jackson, Mississippi |
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| Built | 1839 |
| Architect | William Nichols |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 69000087 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | November 25, 1969 |
| Designated NHL | December 14, 1990 |
The Old Mississippi State Capitol, also known as the Old Capitol Museum, was the main government building for Mississippi. It served as the statehouse from 1839 until 1903. This historic building is a very important landmark.
It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1969. Later, in 1986, it became a Mississippi Landmark. In 1990, it was recognized as a National Historic Landmark, showing its national importance.
Contents
History of the Old Capitol
Building the Capitol
Construction on the Old State Capitol started in 1833. There were some early problems with the first architect and the building materials. In 1836, a new architect named William Nichols took over.
He finished the three-story building in 1840. The outside of the building was made from brick, limestone, and stucco. A copper dome on top reached about 94 feet (29 meters) above the first floor. Inside, most of the building was made of wood. However, some walls were brick, and the main hall floor had flagstones.
Important Events at the Capitol
From 1839 to 1903, the Old Capitol was the center of Mississippi's government. Many important laws and decisions were made here:
- In 1839, the Married Women's Property Act was passed. This was the first law in any state to let married women own property on their own.
- In 1861, the state voted to leave the United States. This was a big step towards the American Civil War.
- The building hosted a Constitutional Convention in 1865.
- Another Constitutional Convention in 1868 gave African Americans political rights.
- In 1875, laws were passed to restore white rule in the state.
- The Constitutional Convention of 1890 created the rules that still govern Mississippi today.
Life After the Legislature
In 1903, a newer state capitol building was finished. The Old Capitol was then left empty for a while. In 1916, it was fixed up and used for state offices.
By 1960, all state offices had moved out. The building was renovated again to become the State Historical Museum in 1961.
In August 2005, Hurricane Katrina caused damage to the building. Strong winds ripped off parts of the copper roof. About a month later, Hurricane Rita brought more rain. This rain got inside and damaged the ceilings, walls, decorations, and even some historical items.
Repairs and renovations took place from 2007 to 2009. After all the work was done, the museum reopened to the public. The Mississippi Department of Archives and History now manages the Old Capitol Museum.
Gallery
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Old Mississippi State Capitol; February 20, 1940
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Supreme Court Chamber in the Old Mississippi Capitol building. Desk for counsel for the appellee.
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Old Mississippi State Capitol House of Representatives chamber.
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Old Mississippi State Capitol rotunda.
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Old Mississippi State Capitol Senate Chamber
See also
