Trepagnier House in Norco, LA - Early 20th Century History

This vintage photograph captures the Trepagnier House in Norco, St. Charles Parish, Louisiana. Documented by Frances Benjamin Johnston, a notable photographer, this image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South. The survey aimed to document the diverse architectural styles and cultural landscapes of the southern United States.

The photograph features distinct architectural elements of the Trepagnier House, including its balconies, dormers, and fanlights. Surrounding the house, everyday life unfolds, with clotheslines and children playing, evoking a sense of community and historical context. The image provides a glimpse into the domestic life in early 20th-century Louisiana, highlighting the interactions of African American families within their environment.

The Trepagnier House stands as an example of the regions residential architecture, representing both aesthetic and social history. This image serves as a valuable resource for understanding the cultural heritage of Louisiana, preserved through Johnston’s lens in the mid-20th century.