Fire Engulfs Historic Nottoway Plantation in Louisiana

Tremendous damage was caused by a major fire that broke out at Nottoway Plantation, a historic property in White Castle, Louisiana on May 15. Situated between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, the plantation, built in 1859, serves as a museum that highlights the history of the region and its enslaved labor force.

The fire started on the second floor of the museum, but quickly shot up to the third-floor attic. In the end, the fire spread throughout and destroyed the entire south wing of the plantation. Approximately 40 firefighters from the Iberville Parish Fire & Emergency Services Department responded promptly to the scene to combat the flames.

This 31 acre plantation incorporates several venues and amenities such as clay tennis courts and 40 overnight rooms that are available on the property. The historic structure is a stunning example of 19th century architectural opulence. Its soaring white columns and impressive balconies boast breathtaking views of the Mississippi River.

Our plantation was originally built by congressman John Hampden Randolph and operated by hundreds of enslaved Americans. It has since transformed into a museum that attracts visitors who wish to learn about its rich yet complex history.

The complete scope of what was lost in the blaze is still unknown. Local officials and the public decried the removal of this important landmark.

“The loss of Nottoway is not just a loss for Iberville Parish, but for the entire state of Louisiana,” stated a representative from the Iberville Parish Government.

Noted Folsom local expert on local historic properties, Chris Daigle, offered a glimmer of hope when it came to saving the site.

The silver lining is that the home has been constructed in various stages. That makes the south wing of the home a distinct axis from the home’s central core. This separation will further protect the pristine core of Nottoway, said Daigle.

Now that investigations into the cause of the fire are underway, the community is hopeful that Nottoway Plantation’s future isn’t as scorched as its past. The site has immense cultural importance, and ongoing restoration efforts will ensure their legacy echoes through time for new generations of children.