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Free Traveling Guides » States » Louisiana » Greater LouisianaOak Alley Plantation
The Oak Alley Plantation, the historic plantation situated on the Mississippi River, in the town of Vacherie, Louisiana, is the most photographed plantation along the Plantation Alley. Its most distinguishing feature is the alley of a double row of live oaks that leads towards the Mississippi River. These live oaks are nearly 240 feet (70 m) long and were planted in the early 18th century. The Oak Alley Plantation has been designated as a National Historic Landmark.
The Oak Alley Plantation was originally named as Bon Sejour. It was sold at an auction in 1866 and was acquired by Andrew and Josephine Stewart in 1925. The property was completely renovated and was ceded to a non-profit organization after Josephine’s death. The major landmark nearby is the St. Joseph Plantation, which has also been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Oak Alley Plantation was also featured in a number of films, including Primary Colors, Interview with the Vampire, Fletch lives, Stay Alive, Dixie Changing Habits, and the Long, Hot Summer.
The magnificent mansion on the Oak Alley Plantation was established in 1839 by George Swainy. The unique antebellum architecture was significantly influenced by the local French Creole architecture derived from the Caribbean plantation design. The mansion’s exterior features a free standing colonnade of 28 Doric columns, while its interior has a square floor plan structured around a central hall, which runs from the front to the rear on both the marble floors. The house also has large windows, high ceilings, a symmetrical interior plan, and a 2nd floor gallery for viewing purposes.
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