ROSEDOWN PLANTATION STATE HISTORIC SITE

Rosedown Plantation was built in 1834-35 by Martha and Daniel Turnbull. Their exceptional sense of art allowed them to furnish the house and fill it with objects from France and Italy, brought back by ship from the sale of their cotton crop. In 1828, during one of their visits to the Palace of Versailles and other gardens in France, Italy and England, the couple was so inspired that they drew up plans for the gardens in a 17th century French style. They were the first Louisianans to import camellias, azaleas and many other plants. The result is beautiful. With the Civil War and the abolition of slavery, the couple lost their five hundred slaves. The Turnbulls died ruined. Their last granddaughter lived until 1955 in this beautiful classical house with Doric columns. The estate, purchased in 1956 by Catherine Fondren Underwood, has been restored after eight years of work. Every detail of life in the planter's time has been recreated, which makes the visit interesting but lifeless, as if one were visiting a museum. Of note is the huge gothic style bed originally intended for Henry Clay, a presidential candidate in 1844. When he was not elected, Daniel Turnbull bought this piece of art and had an additional room built for it. Please note that a guided tour of the plantation is offered daily at 10:00 a.m. and is included in the admission fee.