Old Capitol Museum: A Mississippi Landmark

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.