These 11 Hidden Gems in Louisiana Hold Historic Keys To The Past
By Kezia Kamenetz|Published June 16, 2016
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Kezia Kamenetz
Author
Kezia Kamenetz is a native to southern Louisiana and lives in the Marigny neighborhood of New Orleans currently. When not writing about all the amazing things to be found in her state, her central passion is dreams and the wisdom they can offer, which you can learn more about by visiting KeziaVida.com
If you are looking for something exciting to do in Louisiana, we’ve found an amazing array of historic places that are certain to delight and entertain you. There is so much history to be discovered in Louisiana, and these places truly make it easy for individuals to explore all that this great state has to offer. You are definitely going to have fun exploring these places with the whole family!
This unique Victorian mansion gives visitors the opportunity to check out what life was like in late 19th century New Orleans. There is also a very special doll collection here that can truly enrapture all who are lucky enough to discover it. Tours are by appointment here, as they are often booked for weddings.
This amazing vessel is a Fletcher-class destroyer that is sometimes known as the "Pirate of the Pacific." The boat is now a memorial to veterans in the area. There is a rich history to this ship that played a significant role in the Pacific during World War II. There is a great museum to explore here with the whole family.
This historic masonry fort once served as military protection for New Orleans. It was used to protect America during the War of 1812. During the Civil War, a siege took place at this fort; it lasted for 12 days in April 1862.
Found against the wall of the St. Augustine Catholic Church in New Orleans, this memorial was constructed to remember all of the fallen individuals who were victims of the brutality of the slave trade that went on in New Orleans for so many years. Individuals still visit today to remember that frightening legacy.
This plantation house was built in 1859 and is the largest plantation house in the entire American South, with over 53,000 square feet of interior space. Visiting here is truly going back in the past, where you can explore gorgeous interiors and truly spectacular grounds. A number of interesting people owned this home, and their stories can be explored when you visit the home.
This gorgeous church is an anchor of downtown Lafayette, attracting visitors and parishioners from around the city. A beautiful and old oak tree is found just next door, which serves as its own attraction. The building was built in 1916 in the Romanesque Revival style.
7. Bayou St. John Confederate Submarine, Baton Rouge
This submarine was built by the Confederacy during the Civil War when the technology for submarines was first being developed. The boat was never documented as being built, and was rediscovered in 1878 when Bayou St. John was dredged. At first it was assumed to be the Pioneer, but research has revealed that the Pioneer was a different submarine design. So, a lot of mystery still surrounds this boat, but you can explore it yourself at the Louisiana State Museum in Baton Rouge.
8. Longfellow-Evangeline S.H.S., St. Martin Parish
This state historic site commemorates the culture of the Bayou Teche region, which was forever ingrained into people's consciousness by the poet Henry Longfellow, when he wrote his epic poem Evangeline about two star crossed lovers in Cajun Country. There is a full scale replica of an Acadian farmstead to be explored here.
This state historic site commemorates one of the largest battles in American Civil war history, the Battle of Mansfield. They regularly present reenactments of the battle here to educate individuals about the realities of war. There is also a museum that entertains and educates all who visit. This site is at risk because of recent Louisiana state budget cuts.
Built in 1796, this home has been known as the most haunted mansion in the United States. But there are also some amazing historic relics here, and some historic events that took place on these gorgeous grounds. The building was built by General David Bradford, who played a role in the 1799 Whiskey Rebellion.
This fort was built in 1822 to serve as a buffer between New Spain and the recent Louisiana purchase of 1803, which gave the United States control over what was formerly France. The fort managed the area that became known as the neutral strip to protect citizens from disputes about the border.
How many of these places have you explored? Do you have a favorite among them? Let us know where you like to go with the family when you want something entertaining and educational. We love to hear your feedback and the stories of your experiences!
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