Old Louisiana Governor’s Mansion: Historic home of former governors offers free tours
BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — The Louisiana Old Governor’s Mansion welcomes visitors to tour the historic home used by past governors for over 30 years.
According to the National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form, the neoclassical-style mansion was built by Gov. Huey P. Long, with its design reflecting his ambitions of making it to the White House.
Long got conditional permission in January 1929 to destroy the termite-ridden antebellum mansion and borrow $150,00 to build a new residence. Convicts from the state penitentiary tore down the old building, and, according to historical documents, another $22,000 was used to buy furnishings.
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During impeachment proceedings, Long was accused of destroying and throwing away property and furniture from the governor’s mansion, state Capitol and state offices.
Lawmakers were invited to a housewarming party on June 27, 1930, after construction was completed.
The home’s design included homages to the state bird. Four large 30-foot Corinthian columns are adorned with a carving of a pelican feeding her young, and the den/library has a 9-foot-long cypress mantel with another carving of a pelican.
Over time renovations were made. The nomination form said the garage was converted into a 200-seat auditorium in 1965 and the dining room was restored to its original state.
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Now, people who want to learn more about Louisiana’s past governors can visit the mansion for free. According to its website, guided tours are offered Monday to Friday and events can be booked for evenings and weekends.
Museum hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday.
The Old Louisiana Governor’s Mansion is located at 502 North Blvd., Baton Rouge.
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