travel and leisure

Here is an interesting fact. Did you know that the city of Baton Rouge is divided into parishes instead of counties? This is all thanks to the city's rich history. Wandering around the streets of Baton Rouge
you can gaze at the abundant historical structures that decorate the city. It is almost like taking a trip down memory lane.

When talking about Baton Rouge historic homes
the Magnolia Mound Plantation comes right to mind. This French Creole house was built in 1791
but has maintained its original plan and charm for more than 200 years. The entire house was constructed using cypress beams as support and flooring. It is a testament to the unique
outstanding quality of old
Southern architecture. Currently
the Magnolia Mound Plantation is the site of educational tours and courses designed to teach visitors and school students the rich French Creole culture that has shaped much of southern Louisiana. I still remember my field trip there as an elementary student. The intricate cotton loom and other historical antiques were beautifully displayed throughout the wooden mansion to provide a romantic experience into the distant past.

Also noteworthy among the Baton Rouge historic homes is the Nottoway Plantation. Located just above the Mississippi River
this huge mansion shows an unorthodox blend of ancient Greek architecture and more modern designs. Built in 1859
the Nottoway Plantation possesses many characteristics which were rare back then. It is truly an architectural wonder for its time.

Famous for being the oldest plantation home ever built and recorded in the Mississippi Valley area
the Destrehan Plantation has endured both colonial and the civil war to hold on to its splendor since its establishment in 1787.

In terms of design and color
the San Francisco Plantation is undeniably the most unique of the genuinely-restored Baton Rouge historic homes. Constructed in 1856
this popular landmark features an 1830 Slave Cabin
an 1840 Schoolhouse
and a Museum Store
all situated amongst 300 year old Oak trees. It is truly an interesting site to be visit.

Myrtles Plantation is another famous historic home in Baton Rouge
but for a different reason than the homes mentioned above. The Myrtles Plantation ranked tops as one of the country’s most popular Haunted Houses. Built in 1796
this 2-century old plantation boasts a 120-foot veranda
extravagant French furnishings
crystal chandelier
hand-painted glass
and of course
its ghosts.

Once upon a time
tours offered on the Laura Plantation were ranked as the “Best History Tour in the US”. Nowadays
the Laura plantation still lives up to its reputation. Constructed in 1805
its 12 buildings feature salve quarters that fully exhibit the lifestyle of Creoles and slaves during that period.

The Baton Rouge historic homes speak truth to the city’s rich
past life. Not only do the homes educate us about the past
but they also provide us with something magical to help motivate our imaginations.