The House and Senate Chambers


      The House Chamber (above) and the Senate Chamber (below) were both locations that were used for important meetings. The House Chamber the place is where legislators met and eventually voted to secede from the Union in 1861 before the capitol building was taken over by Union troops. It is a large, open room filled with chairs placed in rows that are in three sections. There is a balcony, a stage, and a large stained-glass window that is at the front of the room.  The Senate Chamber is a large, mostly empty space that looks similar to a ballroom. There are large windows that overlook the grounds and simple chandeliers. The chamber caught on fire in 1906 and caused serious damage to the east side of the building and water damage throughout the entire thing that needed to be refurbished. The removal of the turrets during this time helped to signify to the people that Baton Rouge was no longer at war. It is also the room where balls that guests attend wearing period costumes are held in modern times. The Senate Chamber is where Governor Huey P. Long was impeached.  Both chambers are hosts to the Youth Legislature in Louisiana. These rooms persuade the public to respect them by appealing to pathos. The large, open rooms are intimidating and can make a person feel small while inside. The daunting architecture in addition to the knowledge of what has gone on in the rooms instills feelings of respect and awe. 




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