Houmas Plantation, Ascension Parish, Louisiana, 1840

This vintage photograph captures the Houmas, a plantation located in Ascension Parish, Louisiana. Built in 1840, the structure showcases a two-story design featuring a square cupola and elegant pillars on three sides. The architectural style reflects the grandeur of Southern plantations, characterized by its spacious balconies, dormers, and porticoes adorned with vines.

The plantations design is attributed to Colonel Preston of Charleston, who constructed the present house. Notable elements include the octagonal garconnieres, which serve as charming guest quarters. The Houmas stands as a testament to the rich history of Louisianas plantation culture and the architectural influences of the 19th century.

This image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a comprehensive documentation of Southern architectural heritage. It provides valuable insights into the aesthetic and functional aspects of these historical buildings while preserving the legacy of the regions past.