It wouldn't be possible to fully tell our story without the antique furniture and artifacts throughout the mansion. From the Houmas Indian figurines from the early 1800's to the Prudent Mallard beds, each piece tells a story from our 240 year-old history.
Some artifacts are a display of wealth, while others prove how hard it was to live without the modern conveniences we have today.
Much of the artwork throughout the home depicts what every day life was like, from the landscapes to the portraits we see how much has changed in our surroundings and in fashion.
Many plantation homes in South Louisiana showcase Greek Revival architecture featuring wrap around porches and large columns. This appealing design with a symmetrical layout is not only pleasing to the eye, but it also served a purpose. When all the doors and windows were open it created a natural wind tunnel and helped circulate fresh air coming from the Mississippi River.
The Houmas Mansion went through about 14 owners over the last 240 years, each making modifications until the estate became what is today.
For guests interested in architecture the spiral staircase is a spectacular structure stretching three stories high. Taking two years to complete, it was once a free floating staircase and made completely of Cypress wood. The wood was soaked in the Mississippi River until it was pliable, then slowly it was curved into the shape it is today.
Each addition to the home reflected the personality of its owner, and showed the evolution of architectural design throughout the decades.
