Laura Plantation Tour

Laura Plantation, located in Vacherie, Louisiana, is one of the most well-documented plantations in the Southern United States. Established in 1805 by Guillaume Duparc, a French naval veteran, Laura Plantation initially encompassed 12,000 acres of land along the Mississippi River. Duparc utilized enslaved labor to cultivate sugarcane, a lucrative crop in the region. Following Duparc's death in 1808, his widow, Nanette Prud'homme Duparc, and later their daughter, Élise Duparc, managed the plantation. This matriarchal management continued to define Laura Plantation's operations for many years, a distinctive feature among Southern plantations.

The plantation house, completed in 1805, is a classic example of Creole architecture, characterized by its raised brick basement, expansive galleries, and brightly colored exterior. It was built using local cypress wood and features a symmetrical facade with dormer windows and a hipped roof. The house's interior was designed with French and Creole influences, showcasing elegant woodwork, detailed paneling, and high ceilings.

Laura Plantation's history is notable for its extensive documentation of the lives of both the owners and the enslaved people who lived there. The plantation's historical records include the memoirs of Laura Locoul Gore, the great-granddaughter of Guillaume Duparc. Her memoirs, written in the early 20th century, provide a vivid account of life on the plantation, detailing both the personal and business aspects of running such an enterprise.

A preserved wooden cabin offering a glimpse into the lives of enslaved individuals who lived and worked on the plantation.

One of the most significant aspects of Laura Plantation's history is its role in preserving and documenting Creole culture. The plantation operated under French Creole customs, which differed significantly from the Anglo-American practices of other Southern plantations. These differences were reflected in the plantation's language, cuisine, social customs, and management style.

In 1891, Laura Locoul decided to sell the plantation, marking the end of over 80 years of Duparc family ownership. The new owners, the Waguespack family, continued to cultivate sugarcane but eventually sold the property in the late 20th century. The plantation then transitioned from a working agricultural site to a historical landmark.

Today, Laura Plantation is a well-preserved historical site open to the public. It offers guided tours that explore the rich and complex history of the plantation, focusing on the lives of both the plantation owners and the enslaved people. Visitors can explore the main house, the gardens, and the original slave quarters, which provide a sobering insight into the conditions and lives of the enslaved workers.

Vibrant gardens featuring lush palm trees, colorful flowers, and gravel pathways, creating a serene and picturesque setting.

The plantation is also significant for its connection to the Br'er Rabbit tales, which were recorded in the 1870s by Alcée Fortier, a Louisiana folklorist. These stories, told by the enslaved people of the plantation, are a crucial part of African American folklore and have had a lasting impact on American culture.

Laura Plantation's commitment to historical accuracy and cultural preservation has made it an important site for understanding the diverse history of Louisiana and the broader Southern United States. Its extensive records and personal memoirs offer a unique window into the past, making it a valuable resource for historians, researchers, and visitors interested in the complex history of American slavery and Creole culture.