OAKLAWN MANOR PLANTATION

This is the most interesting plantation in the area. Built in 1837 by Alexander Porter, an Irishman who participated in the founding of the state of Louisiana. After passing through several owners, this sugar cane plantation fell into ruin. At the end of the last century, Clyde Arthur Barbour, who had become rich in the oil industry, began to restore the house he had fallen in love with. But a fire destroyed his work and he had to renew his effort to restore and refurnish it as he traveled through Europe. The house contains a fine collection of European art and furniture, as well as original Audubon paintings and prints. In the oak and cedar garden that slopes down to Bayou Teche, you can still see the old dairy where milk and butter were stored, the slave-made brick well, and a beautiful aviary built by Warner Studios for the filming of Drowning Pool with Paul Newman and Joann Woodward. You will probably be told that Henry Clay stayed at the plantation for a while and that the movie The Spider's Web, by Stuart Rosenberg with Paul Newman, was also filmed at Oaklawn Manor. A good idea is to visit the plantation during the holiday season, when it is decked out in its finest finery. Directions: When on Route 182, turn onto Irish Bend Road and follow the signs, the plantation is 3 miles off Route 90.