The Arsenal (New Orleans) facts for kids
The Old Louisiana State Armory, often called the Arsenal, is a historic building in New Orleans, Louisiana. It's located in the famous French Quarter, very close to Jackson Square. Since 1914, it has been part of the Louisiana State Museum. You can visit it by going through the Cabildo museum next door.
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History of the Arsenal
Building a New Armory
The Arsenal was built in 1839. It stands right next to the Cabildo. Before this building, an old Spanish Arsenal was on the same spot, built in 1762. There was also an old prison there.
The building was designed by James H. Dakin. It shows a style of architecture called Greek Revival style, which was popular at the time.
Role in Wars and Conflicts
For many years, the Arsenal was home to the Orleans Artillery, a military group. During the American Civil War, which happened from 1861 to 1865, the building was used by Confederate soldiers. They stored their supplies there.
After the Union forces took control of New Orleans, the Arsenal became a military prison.
The Arsenal During Reconstruction
After the Civil War, during a time called Reconstruction, the building was given back to the state of Louisiana. It became the headquarters for the New Orleans Metropolitan Police. This police force supported equal rights for everyone.
The Arsenal played an important part in a conflict in 1874 called the Battle of Liberty Place. This was a fight over who should be the governor of Louisiana. The Metropolitan Police clashed with a group called the Crescent City White League. This group wanted to keep things separate for white people. The White League took over the Cabildo and the Arsenal for three days. But then, President Ulysses S. Grant sent in soldiers to bring back order.
In 1914, the Arsenal was given to the Louisiana State Museum. It was then used to show military items.
Visiting the Museum
What You Can See and Do
Even though the Arsenal faces St. Peter Street, you can only get inside by going through the Cabildo museum next door.
The building was once a place to store weapons and military gear. However, today, you usually won't find old weapons on display inside. The second floor of the Arsenal has different exhibits that change over time. These exhibits are open for everyone to see.
The first floor is used as a classroom for school groups visiting the museum. The third floor is a space for meetings.
See also
