Serving as the dominant cultural force, French influence is the initial
ingredient of Creole culture.
In 1734, Bernard de Verges created the first documented design
for a structure in our area. It integrated fundamental features that
would establish longevity and comfort in the Southern Louisiana
environment.
The hot, humid climate determined as much of the architecture for
plantation houses as the tools and materials used in the construction.
Early plantation house styles were built on a continuous foundation
so that the weight was spread evenly into the weak soil. Whether
used for storage or living space, elevated first floors were a necessity.
An emphasis on cross ventilation and protection from the elements
remained a top priority.
Heavy cypress timber from nearby swamps was chosen to construct
the houses because cypress can withstand intense wind and rain,
keeping families and possessions safe during hurricanes, and cypress is
also termite resistant.
So begin exploring the houses today, and discover the stories rooted in
their past.
Houmas House and Gardens
Three restaurants, an Inn, mansion tours, and
acres of landscaped gardens make Houmas
House a complete destination.
houmashouse.com
9 | #OutHere
Laura: Louisiana's Creole Heritage Site
Discover intimate, first-hand accounts of four
generations of one Louisiana Creole Family,
both free and enslaved.
lauraplantation.com
/houmashouse.com
/lauraplantation.com