Melrose On The Cane — Attraction in Natchitoches

I've been to more plantation homes than I can count, considering I'm from Natchez, MS and have visited multiple homes in SE LA. where I've lived for more than half my life at this point. This was the first time I'd visited a Creole plantation. The tour guide was excellent. Her knowledge of the history was extensive and appreciated since I love history. I wish I'd taken photos of the Yucca and Africa Houses, but I admit to being so fascinated with everything that I neglected to do so. The house was much different than I'm used to, but I enjoyed it. It was definitely built to handle our heat and last multiple lifetimes. I've since done some reading on the history of the family and the farm itself, and I need to do some more. My only critique is the gift shop. I've been in dozens in my lifetime. Naturally, most of the items will be on the pricy side, and it's understandable, but most have some affordable options for those who aren't willing to break the bank on souvenirs. I was disappointed to see there were none available. Even the cheapest magnet was $19.50. Needless to say, I was shocked and bought nothing. That being said, I highly recommend visiting...

i came down to Louisiana to do research on the Alexandria area (including the communities nearby) for a novel i am writing. a friend of mine who has family from the Bayou state suggested Melrose Plantation. i am so glad i went. the guided tour was so informative. the structures and grounds are very well kept. if i had questions, they were answered. it is a place so rich in history. a plantation owned by people of color, the offspring of the famous Madame Coincoin. what a wonderful, unique slice of history. and what the plantation later became, in the 20th century, also fascinating. i would love to visit again....

Stopped in on our trip home from Natchitoches after the Christmas festival. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and answered all out questions. We saw the house were African artist Clementine Hunter lived. She was a remarkable woman. The third owner of the plantations wife Cammie Harris was a very work orentiented lady. She let writers stay there if the would work on their projects. The story goes that William Faulkner stay there and after his first day she asked him what he did that day and he said nothing. The next day he did the same thing and Cammie sent...