Louisiana State Capitol | Baton Rouge

The Louisiana State Capitol, located in Baton Rouge, is the tallest state capitol building in the United States and an iconic symbol of the state’s government and history. Standing at 450 feet, the Art Deco tower is a striking piece of architecture, both in terms of its design and its political significance. As the seat of Louisiana’s legislative branch, the building houses the Louisiana State Legislature and serves as the office for the Governor of Louisiana. It is one of the most important landmarks in Louisiana’s political and cultural landscape.

History and Background

The current Louisiana State Capitol was designed by Joseph A. Swartz and completed in 1932. It was constructed as part of a larger political and cultural movement during the tenure of Governor Huey P. Long. Long, one of Louisiana’s most controversial and influential political figures, was the driving force behind the Capitol's creation. The building was intended to reflect the modernity of Louisiana’s government, while also solidifying Long’s political legacy.

Before the construction of the current Capitol, the state’s government was housed in the Old State Capitol, a Gothic Revival structure that now serves as a museum. Governor Long’s decision to build a new, taller and more impressive Capitol was part of his vision to modernize Louisiana and to create a monument to his leadership.

The building's design draws from the Art Deco style, which was popular in the early 20th century, combining classical elements with modern aesthetics. The Louisiana State Capitol is one of the best-known examples of Art Deco architecture in the United States.

Architecture and Design

The Louisiana State Capitol is 450 feet tall and consists of 34 stories, making it the tallest state capitol building in the nation. The building is constructed with steel and limestone, and its exterior features a combination of classical columns and modern geometric shapes, typical of the Art Deco style. It’s a striking presence on the Baton Rouge skyline and stands as a visual testament to the ambition of Louisiana’s government.

Key Design Features:

Towering Structure: At the time of its completion, the Capitol's height was meant to symbolize the power and prominence of Louisiana's government. It also reflects Governor Huey P. Long’s grandiose vision for the state.

Statues and Sculptures: The building is adorned with several statues and sculptures that represent Louisiana’s history. Among these is a bronze statue of Huey P. Long, which stands in front of the building as a tribute to the governor’s legacy and political influence.

Art Deco Detailing: The building features intricate Art Deco embellishments, such as decorative fluted columns, geometric patterns, and ornate motifs throughout the structure. These design elements make the Capitol stand out, particularly against other government buildings with more classical designs.

Interior: Inside, the Capitol houses grand spaces like the rotunda and the legislative chambers. The legislative hall is designed to be spacious and dramatic, with high ceilings and rich wood paneling. The building's overall design reflects the state's progressive ideals of the time, while still maintaining a sense of dignity and authority.

Observation Deck: At the top of the tower, an observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views of Baton Rouge and the surrounding area. Visitors can see the Mississippi River, the Old State Capitol, and the Louisiana State University campus from this elevated vantage point.

Significance and Role

The Louisiana State Capitol serves multiple important functions:

Government Seat: It houses both chambers of the Louisiana Legislature, including the Senate and the House of Representatives. It is where the state's laws are created, debated, and passed. The Capitol also serves as the office of the Governor.

Symbol of Power: As the tallest state capitol building in the U.S., the Louisiana State Capitol symbolizes the strength and authority of Louisiana's government. It stands as a monument to the state’s political history and a symbol of the state's pride in its heritage.

Huey P. Long's Legacy: The Capitol is deeply tied to the legacy of Governor Huey P. Long, who not only oversaw the building's construction but also used the Capitol as a center for his political power. Long was both a populist and a highly controversial figure, and his time in office marked a period of great political change in Louisiana.

Tourist Attraction: The Capitol is a popular site for tourists interested in Louisiana’s government, history, and architecture. It draws visitors to Baton Rouge for its beautiful design, historic significance, and the chance to learn about the state’s legislative processes.

Visitor Experience

Visitors to the Louisiana State Capitol can explore the building and its surrounding grounds. The Capitol Park Museum, located near the Capitol, offers exhibits on the state’s history, culture, and political past. Inside the Capitol, guided tours are available, and visitors can explore:

The Rotunda: A stunning circular hall with a high dome, offering insight into the building’s architectural beauty and historical context.

Legislative Chambers: Visitors can sit in the Senate and House of Representatives chambers to see where Louisiana’s laws are debated and passed. The interior of these chambers showcases the state’s history and how the legislative process works.

Governor’s Office: While the Governor's office itself is not always open for public tours, parts of the Capitol are open for self-guided tours. You can explore the office suites, which give insight into the political power structure of the state.

The Observation Deck: One of the best features of the Louisiana State Capitol is the observation deck at the top, offering spectacular views of Baton Rouge, the Mississippi River, and the surrounding area.

Political and Historical Significance

The Louisiana State Capitol is more than just a government building; it is deeply entwined with the political history of the state. The Capitol’s construction, for example, was largely driven by Huey P. Long, who used it as a symbol of his political rise and to cement his legacy. Long, who served as governor from 1928 until his assassination in 1935, was known for his populist policies, building the Capitol as a testament to his vision of a powerful state government.

The Capitol was also the site of some of the state's most important legislative battles, including those relating to education reform, economic development, and civil rights. The history within the walls of this building has shaped the path of Louisiana's governance and continues to influence the state's political landscape today.

Conclusion

The Louisiana State Capitol in Baton Rouge is a stunning blend of historical significance, political power, and architectural beauty. Its towering presence on the Baton Rouge skyline serves as a symbol of the state’s legislative might and political legacy. Whether visiting for the views from the observation deck, the history of the building itself, or exploring the role it plays in the governance of Louisiana, the Capitol is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the state's history and political culture.