Get to know a little more about Louisiana’s history with our Great River Road Driving Tour, which winds through the heart of Iberville Parish. As you drive along LA-405 from Plaquemine to White Castle, you’ll pass through charming communities, take in stunning river views, and discover some of the most iconic historical landmarks in the region. This self-guided driving tour offers a glimpse into the area’s rich past, with stately homes, quaint chapels, and storied churches along the way. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking to experience Louisiana’s timeless beauty, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression.
*These sites are privately owned and are not open for tours.
St. Louis Historic Home*
57473 St. Louis Road, Plaquemine, LA
The St. Louis Historic Home was built in 1857 by U.S. Re. Edward J. Gay. It was named for the City of St. Louis. It has six columns and a gallery across the front, along with a rooftop belvedere; and is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Madonna Chapel
28527 LA-405, Plaquemine, LA
Iberville Parish has a spot in Ripley’s Believe It or Not for its beloved Madonna Chapel, the smallest church in the world. Built by Anthony Gullo in 1902. The chapel is open daily for those who wish to visit and enjoy its solitude; the key is kept in the mailbox.
St. Paul Catholic Church*
29780 LA-405, White Castle, LA
Built in 1871, St. Paul Catholic Church holds a special place in the hearts and minds of the Bayou Goula area. It is cherished for its historical significance, its simplistic beauty, and for its role in the early development of the parish. After hurricane damage in 2008, the church has made a comeback.
J. Supple’s Sons Mercantile Company, Ltd.*
29830 LA-405, White Castle, LA 70788
Built in 1929 after levee work destroyed the original, this rare surviving plantation store served local residents and workers alike, remaining a hub of rural commerce well into the 20th century. The large brick building still retains many original features, from its distinctive shuttered façade and display windows to the office wing’s built-in shelving and vault marked with the company’s name.
Tally Ho Historic Home*
30160 LA-405, White Castle, LA
Sometime before 1855, Jean Fleming owned the Tally Ho home. In 1848, it was purchased by John Murrell of Virginia and has remained in his family since. The current house is what was used as the overseers home, after the main house burned in 1945. It is a raised Acadian cottage with Classical Revival influences.
St. John the Baptist Church*
31925 Lacroix Rd, White Castle, LA
Built in 1868 by Rev. Basile Dorsey, this is believed to be the oldest African-American church in the region. Its rural Greek Revival form, with clapboard siding, tall windows, and a gabled front, is accented by an Italianate three-stage entrance tower. Though the interior has seen updates, the exterior remains largely unchanged. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it still hosts weekly services.
Dorseyville Historic School Site*
31925 Lacroix Rd, White Castle, LA
Located across from St. John the Baptist Church and also built by Rev. Dorsey, this school was built in the 1890s to educate African-American children from Dorseyville and nearby plantations until 1952. Under Ms. Afreta Gant, who taught all grades and began each day with prayer, students learned discipline and purpose. Thanks to restoration efforts led by former students, the building now serves as a local community center.