Discovering The Rich Heritage Of Louisiana Plantations

Louisiana plantations are some of the country's most fascinating places. Rich, fertile soil and the access to the country's biggest waterway, the Mississippi river, made for a ripe area to establish some of the most successful plantations in the South. Long before there was a United States, Louisiana plantations dotted the shores and inlands for a diverse combination of French, Nova Scotian, American Indian, and African peoples, creating the Creole and Cajun heritage alike.

Here is a small smattering of plantations found in Louisiana. Whether you are a long-time resident, a new resident, a visitor, or are looking to be a new real estate owner in Louisiana, the discovery and exploration of the many mansions and plantations here will be a journey you won't forget.

Chretian Point Plantation-Outside Lafayette
The notorious tales of Madame Chretian, who ran this plantation in the 1830s and 40s, show a little spark of Scarlett O'Hara. A shrewd businesswoman and successful gambler, the Mistress of Chretian Point Plantation once defended her fortune, estate, and life by shooting a brigand point blank in the face.
Reported ghost sightings, ongoing tales of buried treasure, famous tenants, and Civil War battles fought on the property, along with the rich history of the plantation itself make Chretian Point one of the most popular places to tour. The famous stairway in "Gone With The Wind" was a replica of Chretian Point's staircase.

BREC's Magnolia Mound Plantation-Baton Rouge
One of the oldest and well-kept plantations is Magnolia Mound Plantation. A rich history of the French Creole heritage pervades this plantation. It has held its importance as a landmark because of its age and architectural survival, its stunning collections of furnishings and arts, and its continued influence on the community.

Destrehan Plantation-Destrehan
Destrehan Plantation is the oldest documented plantation home in the lower Mississippi. Built right along the Mississippi River, it is home to the "Jefferson Document", in which Thomas Jefferson assigned four men to the Orleans Territorial Council. One of the four men was Jean Noel Destrehan, founder of the plantation.

Along with its long history and the influence of Jean Noel on Louisiana's history, the Destrehan Plantation remains a vital part of past and present history with its continued majestic presence and the impact of its role in United States and Louisiana history.

Kent Plantation House-Alexandria
With the Spanish, French, and American flags all flying over the entrance, the Kent Plantation House bears its heritage and its long history. The plantation house is one of the oldest structures in Louisiana. Its inheritance shows a unique and successful history of French colonial Creole and its family workings.

The Laura Plantation-Vacherie
The Laura Plantation exhibits the true nature of Creole life and history in Louisiana. Guided by the book, "Memories of the Old Plantation Home", written by Laura Locoul Gore, history is brought to life in detailed richness. With this exceptional insight to the everyday lives of its people, the operations of the plantation, and the resistance to Anglo influences in defense of the Creole lifestyle, the Laura Plantation offers a unique look at the way life really was.