Visit the memorials in Whitney Plantation

Visit the memorials in Whitney Plantation

Whitney Plantation is a historic estate located in Wallace, Louisiana, that is now open to the public as a museum. The plantation dates back to the early 18th century and was once a working sugar plantation. Today, visitors can explore the property and learn about the history of slavery in Louisiana through guided tours and exhibits. In this article, we will discuss what to do in Whitney Plantation, with a focus on visiting the memorials.

Memorial Sites

One of the most significant aspects of Whitney Plantation is its collection of memorials dedicated to enslaved individuals. The plantation’s owners have worked to preserve the stories of the people who lived and worked on the property, and visitors can learn about their lives through the memorials and exhibits. Some of the most notable memorials on the property include the Field of Angels, the Wall of Honor, and the Antioch Baptist Church.

The Field of Angels is a poignant memorial that honors the enslaved children who died on the plantation. The memorial consists of a series of statues of young angels, each with a plaque bearing the name and age of a child who died while in slavery. The memorial is a moving reminder of the brutality and inhumanity of slavery and the toll it took on the lives of those who were enslaved.

The Wall of Honor is another important memorial on the property. It is a long wall that lists the names of every individual enslaved at Whitney Plantation, along with their country of origin and other details about their lives. The wall serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of slavery and the importance of remembering the individuals who were forced to endure it.

Finally, the Antioch Baptist Church is a restored 19th-century church that was once used by enslaved individuals on the plantation. The church now serves as a memorial to the enslaved people who worshiped there and is open to visitors who want to learn more about the history of the site.

Guided Tours

One of the best ways to experience Whitney Plantation is through a guided tour. The plantation offers several tour options, including a standard guided tour, a family tour, and a school tour. All tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can provide insights into the plantation’s history and the lives of the people who lived and worked there.

During the standard guided tour, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the grounds and learn about the daily life of the enslaved individuals who lived on the plantation. The tour includes visits to the memorials and other important sites, such as the Big House, where the plantation’s owners lived.

For families with young children, the family tour is a great option. The tour is designed to be engaging for children and includes hands-on activities and interactive exhibits. Children will have the opportunity to learn about the lives of enslaved children and their families, and the tour is a great way to introduce kids to the history of slavery in a way that is accessible and age-appropriate.

Finally, for school groups, the plantation offers a specialized tour that is designed to meet state education standards. The tour is tailored to the age and grade level of the students and includes interactive activities and exhibits that are aligned with the curriculum.

Conclusion

Whitney Plantation is a unique and important historical site that offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the history of slavery in Louisiana. The plantation’s collection of memorials and exhibits provides a moving and powerful look at the lives of the people who were enslaved at the site. Whether you choose to take a guided tour or explore on your own, a visit to Whitney Plantation is an unforgettable experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.