Old Governor’s Mansion | Baton Rouge

The Old Governor’s Mansion is a historic landmark in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and serves as a testament to the state's rich political history. Located in the heart of the city's downtown district, this elegant building was once the official residence of the governor of Louisiana and remains a symbol of the state's early governance and architectural heritage. Today, it stands as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the state's past and its evolution as a political center.

History and Background

The Old Governor’s Mansion was constructed in 1930 to serve as the home of the Governor of Louisiana. The building was designed by architect L. J. H. Johnson in the Colonial Revival style, a popular architectural trend in the early 20th century that emphasized symmetrical facades, traditional American building materials, and historical European influences. The mansion's construction was part of a broader effort by the state to create a more dignified and modern residence for the governor, reflecting the state's growing importance in the American South.

Before the construction of the Old Governor’s Mansion, the governor's official residence was located in the Louisiana State Capitol, but the need for a separate, dedicated residence led to the construction of this iconic building.

The mansion served as the governor's residence for several decades, hosting important political figures and dignitaries. It was used for official events, state dinners, and important gatherings, making it a key part of Louisiana's political life.

In 1965, the residence was officially abandoned as the Governor's Mansion when the state moved the office of the governor to a new, more modern residence, the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion in Baton Rouge. Following this, the Old Governor’s Mansion became a museum, and it is now part of the Louisiana State Museum.

Architectural Features

The Old Governor’s Mansion is an impressive example of Colonial Revival architecture, with distinct features that reflect the elegance and formality of the time. Key architectural highlights include:

Symmetrical Facade: The building's exterior is characterized by a perfectly symmetrical design, a hallmark of the Colonial Revival style. This includes evenly spaced windows and doors, creating a balanced, harmonious look.

Palladian Windows: One of the defining features of Colonial Revival architecture, these large, arched windows are often seen in the building’s front, allowing ample natural light to illuminate the interiors.

Portico and Columns: The mansion is fronted by a stately portico with tall, Doric columns. The portico serves as an imposing entryway and adds a sense of grandeur to the building.

Brick Exterior: The mansion is constructed with red brick, adding to its stately appearance and blending traditional American building materials with formal architectural elements.

Elegant Staircase: Inside the building, a grand staircase leads to the second floor, serving as a central architectural feature that emphasizes the building's historic significance and elegance.

The mansion’s design reflects the architectural trends of the early 20th century but also pays homage to the classical architecture that was widely admired at the time. It was built with a keen attention to detail and is a beautiful representation of the grandeur of early Louisiana politics.

The Old Governor’s Mansion as a Museum

Today, the Old Governor’s Mansion functions as a museum and is part of the Louisiana State Museum system. It offers a variety of exhibits, programs, and tours that highlight Louisiana’s political history and the role of the mansion in the state’s government. Some of the features of the museum include:

1. Exhibits on Louisiana Political History

The museum provides exhibits that explore Louisiana’s governors, the state’s political evolution, and the role the mansion played in hosting official events and dignitaries. Visitors can learn about significant moments in Louisiana history, including the political struggles, cultural shifts, and personalities that shaped the state over the years. Exhibits often feature photographs, documents, and artifacts related to past governors and political figures.

2. History of the Mansion

The mansion’s history as a governor’s residence is a key part of the museum’s offerings. The exhibit details the construction of the mansion, its use by various governors, and the transition to its current status as a museum. Visitors can see how the building evolved from a private residence to a public institution and learn about the various events held in the mansion over the years, from state dinners to political receptions.

3. Guided Tours

Visitors can take guided tours of the mansion, which provide a detailed look at the architecture, furnishings, and historical significance of the building. The tours are led by knowledgeable docents who explain the mansion’s role in Louisiana’s political history and its connection to the state’s larger historical narrative.

4. Special Exhibitions and Events

In addition to permanent exhibits, the Old Governor’s Mansion hosts special exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year. These may include exhibits on Louisiana’s political figures, the history of Baton Rouge, and other aspects of the state’s past. The mansion also hosts events like lectures, receptions, and historical reenactments, making it a dynamic cultural center in Baton Rouge.

5. Preservation of Historic Interiors

Many of the mansion's interiors have been preserved to reflect the building’s use as the official residence of the governor. Visitors can explore the grand rooms, state dining room, drawing rooms, and the governor’s office, all of which are furnished with period-appropriate pieces. These rooms help visitors imagine what life was like in the building when it served as the governor’s residence.

The parlor and library are often focal points of tours, showcasing the elegance and historical significance of the mansion. Many rooms are adorned with original woodwork, chandeliers, and antique furniture, giving visitors a true sense of the mansion's grandeur during its peak.

Visitor Experience

The Old Governor’s Mansion offers a variety of experiences for those interested in history, politics, architecture, and Louisiana culture. The mansion is open to the public for tours, and visitors can enjoy:

Guided tours of the mansion that provide a detailed look at the architecture and history of the building.

Interactive exhibits that offer insights into Louisiana’s political history and its governors.

Seasonal events and special exhibits that delve into Louisiana’s vibrant past and present.

Additionally, the Old Governor’s Mansion is often a venue for public programs, including historical lectures, art exhibitions, and community events. It is a key resource for learning about Baton Rouge and Louisiana’s government, politics, and cultural heritage.

Conclusion

The Old Governor’s Mansion in Baton Rouge is a beautiful and historic building that offers a rich glimpse into Louisiana’s political past. From its Colonial Revival architecture to its role as the residence of state governors, the mansion is a significant piece of Louisiana’s heritage. As a museum, it preserves the history of the mansion and the state’s political evolution, while also serving as a cultural center that engages the public with special exhibits and events. Whether you are a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or someone interested in Louisiana’s political legacy, the Old Governor’s Mansion provides a fascinating look into the state's past.