The LDS Church First Presidency announced on October 14, 1998, that a temple would be built in Baton Rouge and a groundbreaking ceremony was held on May 8, 1999. The temple was open to the public for tours from July 1 to 8, 2000. LDS Church president Gordon B. Hinckley dedicated the temple on July 16, 2000. Four dedicatory services were held to accommodate the members who wanted to attend. Just before the first dedication service a cornerstone ceremony was held.
