Laura Plantation: Louisiana's Créole Heritage Site
Credit:  Brad Cummins

Laura Plantation: Louisiana's Créole Heritage Site

2247 LA-18, Vacherie, LA 70090, USA(225) 265-7690www.lauraplantation.com

Opening Hours

Monday:9:30 AM – 3:20 PM
Tuesday:9:30 AM – 3:20 PM
Wednesday:9:30 AM – 3:20 PM
Thursday:9:30 AM – 3:20 PM
Friday:9:30 AM – 3:20 PM
Saturday:9:30 AM – 3:20 PM
Sunday:9:30 AM – 3:20 PM

More Information

Laura Plantation: Louisiana's Créole Heritage Site

The Laura Plantation, located at 2247 Louisiana Highway 18 in Vacherie, Louisiana, is a historic Créole plantation that offers visitors not only a fascinating insight into the sugar industry of the state but also into the lives of the people who lived and worked there. As one of the oldest sugar plantations in the country, founded in 1805, it is a valuable source of significant cultural and social stories that broaden the understanding of the complex history of the region.

History

The Laura Plantation was originally established in the early 19th century by the Duparc family and later operated by the Locoul family. This plantation offers a unique perspective on the lives and challenges of the time, particularly regarding the role of slave labor in sugar production. Visitors experience the historical contexts and social dynamics of the 19th century in a compelling way, conveyed through guided tours. The historical narratives bring to life the complex relationships between the plantation owners and the slaves and invite visitors to reflect on these dark yet educational chapters of US history.

Attractions

The main attraction of the Laura Plantation is the guided tours that take place daily. These tours include not only the main plantation building but also the expansive gardens and an authentic slave cabin. The tours provide in-depth insights into the lifestyle of the inhabitants of the time, the architecture of the buildings, as well as the agricultural techniques used for sugar production. A detailed breakdown of the family dynamics over generations also creates a personal connection to the history.

Costs and Access

The cost of a guided tour is moderate and reflects the extensive preparation of the content and the preservation of the historic site. The total expense of visiting the Laura Plantation includes the admission fees for the tour and any applicable parking fees. It is highly recommended to reserve tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid waiting times. The plantation is conveniently accessible by car, and the idyllic landscape of the surroundings contributes to a pleasant drive—approximately an hour from New Orleans.

Reviews

Feedback from visitors to the Laura Plantation is overwhelmingly positive. The depth of information conveyed during the tours is especially praised. Many guests have highlighted the excellent expertise of the tour guides, who manage to tell the stories in an engaging and vivid manner. However, some visitors criticize that the tours do not adequately address the living conditions of the slaves and focus more on the lives of the owner families. Nevertheless, the combination of history, architecture, and the unique Créole culture makes the Laura Plantation an unforgettable experience that is both educational and enriching.

The Laura Plantation is not only a place for reflection but also a symbol of an important heritage. For travelers interested in history and culture, this site is a must-visit that brings the history of Louisiana to life in an impressive way.

For more information and tickets, visit the official website of the Laura Plantation.

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