As a history lover, I wanted to learn more about New Orleans’ past. I could not ignore that plantations were a part of that tale. I chose Destrehan Plantation for a tour because it is only a 30-minute drive from New Orleans. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but part of me wondered if the history of the plantation would be sugar-coated. Our tour guide did indeed point out “success stories,” but those were so few. According to our tour guide, who was dressed in period clothing, the plantation was the sight of the trials for slaves believed to be involved in the 1811 Slave Revolt, and 45 people were sentenced to death or, according to nola.com, were sent on for further trials. The look of the plantation has changed throughout its history, but you still get a sense for what life was probably like. The mule barn on the property was used in the filming of the movie “12 Years a Slave,” from which scenes frequently popped into my head during the tour. The plantation has other interesting features, such as an authentic document signed by Thomas Jefferson. The plantation tour ($18 a person) is worth a visit if you’re interested in the history of the area.
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| The mule barn might be recognized from the movie “12 Years a Slave.” |