2011 Fall Ramble on False River
On November 4th and 5th, the Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation sponsored the False River Ramble in New Roads, Louisiana. Rambles are the Louisiana Trust’s way of introducing the many different historic areas of Louisiana to its membership and history lovers from all over.
The ramble began with a cocktail party on November 4th at the LeJeune House, the home of Louisiana Trust board member Richard Gibbs and Randy Harelson. The LeJeune House is an excellent example of an early to mid-19th century plantation house. This can be seen in its raised cottage form, its size, its plan, and its fine Greek Revival details.
The next day began with breakfast at the restored Poydras High School, now known as the Poydras Center, and home to the Pointe Coupee Historical Society. This beautiful building, built in 1924 , abandoned and condemned, was purchased by the society and restored, and now functions as society headquarters and has space for meetings and special events. Tours were offered by Angelique Gardner, Director of the Poydras Center, and her staff. A lecture was given by local historian Brian Costello and a presentation on historic sites by Randy Harelson.
Another stop on the Ramble was the beautiful Bonnie Glen, built around 1830 and renovated in 1935. This beautiful property has remained in the same family since 1805. A wonderful gumbo lunch, prepared by Morel’s of New Roads, was served on the grounds of this historic property.
Two beautiful and historic churches were included in the Ramble, St. Mary of False River Church and St. Francis Chapel. St. Francis is one of the earliest churches in Louisiana and contains an 18th century confessional and a statue of the good saint, believed to have been carved by Tunica Indians. St. Mary has spectacular stained glass windows designed by local historian and architect Glenn Morgan. This beautiful church was built in the early 20th century in the gothic style.
Also on the tour was the Randall Oak, named in memory of Professor James Ryder Randall who taught at the now burned Poydras College, and wrote “Maryland, My Maryland” while at the school in 1861. Listed on the Live Oak Registry as tree #17.
A special component of the Ramble was the Antique Spree in the Country. This annual antique show and sale is held at an historic home and garden. Ramblers were also able to visit the many quaint shops in downtown New Roads, including the beautiful Pointe Coupee Gallery at 329 New Roads Street , Fleur de Lis Antiques at 118 E. Main Street, and Holidays in the Country at 116 W. Main Street. Ramblers also experienced the local foods at the restaurants of New Roads.