Old State House Museum | Little Rock

The Old State House Museum, located in the heart of downtown Little Rock, Arkansas, is one of the state’s most historically significant buildings and the oldest surviving state capitol west of the Mississippi River. Constructed between 1833 and 1842, it was designed by architect Gideon Shryock in the Greek Revival style, a popular architectural trend in the early 19th century that emphasized symmetry, columns, and classical proportions. The building originally served as Arkansas’s state capitol until 1911, when the current Arkansas State Capitol opened. After a period of vacancy and partial use, it was restored and opened to the public as a museum in 1951. Its importance was nationally recognized when it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1997.

Historical Significance

The Old State House has been a central stage for many defining moments in Arkansas history. In 1836, Arkansas’s formal admission to the Union took place within its chambers. During the Civil War, the building served as a hub for both Confederate and Unionist government activities, reflecting the deep divisions within the state. Decades later, it became a modern political symbol: in 1991, Bill Clinton announced his candidacy for the U.S. presidency on the front steps of the Old State House, and he celebrated both his 1992 and 1996 election victories there. These events underscore the building’s enduring role as a civic and political landmark.

Architecture and Interior

The Old State House is a prime example of Greek Revival architecture, featuring a symmetrical façade, a grand portico with stately columns, and decorative stonework that evokes classical antiquity. Its exterior is constructed from locally quarried stone, which gives it a robust yet elegant presence. Inside, the museum preserves restored legislative chambers with period furnishings, decorative woodwork, and artifacts that offer a window into 19th-century political life. Notable features include the original House and Senate chambers, a central hall, and spaces recreated to reflect the lifestyle and governance practices of the 1800s. High ceilings, large windows, and detailed moldings enhance the sense of grandeur while maintaining historical accuracy.

Exhibits and Collections

The museum offers a rich array of permanent and temporary exhibits, providing visitors with a comprehensive view of Arkansas’s social, political, and cultural history. Permanent exhibits include battle flags, inaugural gowns of Arkansas’s First Ladies, local art pottery, and African-American quilts, each showcasing a facet of the state’s heritage. The Arkansas DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) Room recreates an upper-class period room from the 18th century, complete with authentic furnishings and decorative elements. Special exhibits rotate throughout the year, highlighting unique aspects of Arkansas history, from local industries to notable figures and community milestones.

Visitor Experience

Visitors can explore the Old State House through guided tours, which run on an hourly schedule and last approximately 50 minutes, or self-guided tours with maps and mobile guides. Walking through the museum, guests encounter detailed exhibits, period-accurate furnishings, and historical artifacts that combine to create a vivid sense of the past. The rotunda and central hall often draw particular attention for their architectural details, including ornate plasterwork and the grand scale of the space. The museum is free to the public, welcoming a wide audience of history enthusiasts, school groups, and casual visitors alike.

Location and Surroundings

The Old State House Museum is located at 300 W. Markham Street, in the heart of Little Rock’s downtown district. Its central location places it near other attractions such as the Robinson Center, the Arkansas River Trail, and various parks and cultural sites. The surrounding area is ideal for combining a museum visit with a stroll through Little Rock’s historic downtown streets, dining at local restaurants, or exploring nearby monuments and public spaces.

The Old State House Museum is not only an architectural gem but also a living chronicle of Arkansas’s political and social history. It offers visitors a chance to engage with the past, from the state’s early governance and Civil War era struggles to modern political milestones, all within the walls of a building that has stood witness to over 180 years of history.