Magnolia Mound

An Insight into Magnolia Mound: A Glimpse into Louisiana's Early Settlers

A Historical Overview

For a peek into the lives of Louisiana's early settlers from France and the West Indies, pay a visit to the 900-acre Magnolia Mound. This plantation house dates back to 1791 and serves as a notable illustration of the French Creole lifestyle of the early 19th century. Aside from the house itself, the property also showcases a collection of Louisiana-made furniture from the state's colonial period, as well as English and French ceramics, decorative arts, and crystal.

Understanding the Role of Enslaved People

Magnolia Mound also serves as an important reminder of the role of enslaved people in Louisiana's history and prosperity. It is believed that as many as 79 enslaved people worked on Magnolia Mound by 1860. Although the plantation's original slave quarters were demolished, visitors can see a double slave cabin that was relocated to the property from another historic site in Louisiana. Other buildings on-site include an open-hearth kitchen, an overseer's house, an outhouse, and a building used to house game birds called a dovecote.

Visitor Experience and Tours

While you can explore the property on your own, visitors suggested opting for the guided tour to gain a better understanding of the property's history. Besides Magnolia Mound's buildings, reviewers were also impressed with the site's landscaping, particularly the live oak trees.

Location and Visitor Information

Magnolia Mound is situated about 2 miles south of downtown Baton Rouge. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the grounds for $3 per person. Guided tours cost $10 per adult and $4 for kids ages 3 to 17; children 3 and younger can tour for free. Discounts are available for seniors and members of the military. Guided tours begin on the hour from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Note that guided tours are limited to four people per tour due to the coronavirus pandemic. The property welcomes visitors Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, visit the official website.