Historic Louisiana plantation house considered ‘total loss’ following massive fire
WHITE CASTLE, La. (WAFB/Gray News) - Louisiana authorities say the main building at the historic Nottoway Plantation is considered a “total loss” following a massive, destructive fire.
According to Iberville Parish officials, the fire started shortly after 2 p.m. Thursday in the south wing of the building.
Staff reported finding smoke when they were walking into a room of the museum on the second floor before seeing flames and leaving the building.
The fire is believed to have started in one of the bedrooms on the second floor, but the cause is still under investigation.
After initially putting the fire out, firefighters went to every floor to ensure all flames and hotspots were out.
Several departments responded to the scene with about 30-40 firefighters.
Though the main building was destroyed, officials confirmed that all other structures on the property were preserved.
When the fire initially began, officials said the owners had committed to rebuilding and making repairs in line with historic preservation. As of now, however, the owners say they are unsure what they will do.
The plantation is considered one of the largest antebellum homes in the South and has roots that date back to 1859.
Iberville Parish President Chris Daigle released a statement following the fire, saying in part:
“Nottoway has welcomed visitors from around the world who came to appreciate its architecture and confront the legacies of its era. It stood as both a cautionary monument and a testament to the importance of preserving history - even the painful parts - so that future generations can learn and grow from it.”
Water was still being sprayed on the home Friday morning, about 18 hours after the fire began.
The Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office says no injuries have been reported.
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