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The Great River Road – New Orleans northbound along the Mississippi.

Melrose plantation

The Melrose Plantation was the home of Marie Thérèse dite Coincoin, a notable planter and businesswoman. As the daughter of slaves, her freedom was purchased in 1778 by Claude Thomas Pierre Métoyer, with whom she had ten children A free spirit, she used her plantation for artist retreats. One of the most famous folkartists who began painting in her 50s lived on the property.

Great River Road

Years ago I lived for a summer close to the Mississippi. Riding along the great river is something that I have looked forward to. I spent quite a bit of time touring plantations and seeing other sites. Destrehan Plantation is a good starting point as their tour provided a good historical overview. I toured several other plantations before arriving at the grand Houmas House Plantation and Gardens. Destrehan Plantation Tour The grounds surrounding Destrehan had live oak and resurrection ferns. … Read More