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| Can anyone guess where the name of the Plantation came from? |
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| The view of the Mississippi River across from the front of Oak Alley |
OVERVIEW: Oak Alley is a historical Antebellum home on the banks of the Mississippi River. It's namesake is an incredible alley of oaks situated in the front of the home that were planted in the early 18th century, way before the 'Big House' was built. Think about this: the oaks are just as historical as the home, and are literally living history! Interestingly, no one really know who planted these oaks or why (a history mystery).
THE NITTY GRITTY: As beautiful as the home is, I will not sugar coat the fact that, like all plantations, this one had slaves. Do keep this in mind during your visit and realize that there were two very different types of people with very different life experiences who lived at Oak Alley: those in the opulent 'Big House' and those in slave quarters. There is a 'Slavery at Oak Alley Exhibit' that I would highly recommend that you check out during your visit in order to gain insight about this dark part of American history.
THE GROUNDS: The grounds at Oak Alley are absolutely stunning. In fact, we spent a whole thirty minutes just gawping and taking pictures of the oaks before we even ventured into the grounds! You are allowed to walk amongst the oaks, so do it! It's such a lovely experience.
TAKE A TOUR: There are hourly tours of the 'Big House' that last about forty minutes. To be honest, as beautiful as the house is, I really wasn't that impressed with it on the inside. However, the tour guides that I had both times I visited were excellent and highly knowledgeable of both the plantation and the time period. Despite my disappointment with the house itself, I would recommend taking the tour because I believe that it is a truly unique learning experience. Other than the 'Big House,' you can also see the 'Slavery at Oak Alley Exhibit', The Civil War Encampment, and The Blacksmith Shop.
OVERALL: Compared to how many antebellum homes there used to be, Oak Alley is one of the few fully intact ones left. Hence, for the sake of learning and history, it is worth a visit. There are several other antebellum homes near Oak Alley that are also worth a visit. However, if you had to choose one, I would recommend this one, merely because it is unique with its curious alley of oaks.
Best Wishes,
The Pseudo Southerner
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