Old Capitol Museum: A Mississippi Landmark

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Explore Mississippi's rich history and architectural grandeur at the Old Capitol Museum, a National Historic Landmark in downtown Jackson.

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Old Capitol Museum

The Old Capitol Museum in Jackson, Mississippi, is a National Historic Landmark that served as the state's capitol from 1839 to 1903. It's a prime example of Greek Revival architecture and a significant site in Mississippi history, where key legislative actions like the 1861 Ordinance of Secession took place. Today, it functions as a free museum showcasing the building's history and importance.

A brief summary to Old Capitol Museum

100 State St, Jackson, Mississippi, 39201, US
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Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

Visit between Wednesday and Friday, as these are the only days the museum is open to the public.
Reservations are preferred, so email ocmscheduling@mdah.ms.gov to schedule your visit in advance.
Take advantage of the free parking located behind the museum, with entrance on Amite Street.

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Getting There

Walking

The Old Capitol Museum is located in downtown Jackson at 100 State Street. If you are already in the downtown area, walking is a viable option. From the Mississippi Governor's Mansion, walk north on N Congress St towards E Capitol St. Turn left onto E Capitol St, then turn right onto N State St. The museum will be on your left. This is a short walk of approximately 3 blocks. No costs involved.
Public Transport

JTRAN, Jackson's public transportation system, provides bus service throughout the city. Check the JTRAN website for routes and schedules to the Old Capitol Museum. Bus stops are located at quarter-mile intervals along each route. A one-way fare is $1.50.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Jackson. A taxi ride from Union Station to the Old Capitol Museum, approximately 0.6 miles, would cost around $7 - $14, with rates starting at $4.30 plus $1.90 per kilometer. Keep in mind that fares may vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Discover more about Old Capitol Museum

The Old Capitol Museum, located in downtown Jackson, stands as Mississippi's most historic building and a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture. Constructed in 1839, it served as the state capitol until 1903 and was the site of many significant legislative actions, including the passage of the 1839 Married Women's Property Act, Mississippi's secession from the Union in 1861, and the drafting of the 1868 and 1890 state constitutions.During the Civil War, the Old Capitol was evacuated before the Battle of Jackson in 1863 and later vandalized by Federal troops. Although legislative and state offices were removed to Macon, it remained in Confederate hands for the remainder of the war, briefly serving as a Confederate military headquarters in 1864.Today, the restored Old Capitol Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the state's political past. Interactive multimedia exhibits explore the roles of the legislature, governor, and high court, as well as the importance of historic preservation to the state. The museum also details the building's activities after the New Capitol was constructed in 1903. The Old Capitol's massive limestone exterior, copper dome, and grand interior spaces reflect its original distinction as Mississippi's most important building.