Old State House Museum Travel Guide

The Old State House Museum, located in downtown Little Rock, is a treasure trove of Arkansas history. Constructed in 1833, it stands as the oldest state capitol building west of the Mississippi. The building served as the state's capitol until 1911 and later housed the Arkansas School of Medicine before becoming a museum in 1951. The museum's exhibits showcase Arkansas's political, cultural, and social development from statehood to the present. Visitors can explore restored legislative chambers and view artifacts such as first ladies' gowns, Civil War battle flags, and Arkansas art pottery. The grounds are also notable as the site of President Bill Clinton's election night victory speeches in 1992 and 1996.The Old State House has witnessed many significant events, including Arkansas's admission to the Union in 1836 and the secession convention of 1861. The building has Greek Revival architecture, with majestic columns and an elegant façade.