National Register Listing

Madewood

a.k.a. Madewood Plantation House

E of Napoleonville on LA 308, Napoleonville, LA
In the architectural history of the State, Madewood is significant, for several reasons. Primarily, it represents the highest development of the pure Greek revival order in a plantation home. Plantations, before Madewood adopted classical motifs to more provincial plans, and several later homes, reflected more elaborate Roman or Italianate influence. But in Madewood, Henry Howard was able to create a home of great dignity and purity and yet of equal warmth. The forms are classi- cal, but they are interpreted in indigenous materials the doorways, for example, follow the Greek-key motif, but the wood tones soften the effect. Likewise, the delicate railings of the front gallery provide an airy contrast to the massive columns.

The charm of the huge "old kitchen"; the closets, dressing rooms, and parlor associated with the second- floor bedrooms; and the complete, signed faux bois wood- work are all significant aspects of the house. But its main importance derives from its total effect. For here is a house whose noble proportions reflect the grandeur of a past age, whose image excites by its reference to beauty and purity.
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

South Louisiana is a different state completely than the rest of Louisiana.
David E. Putnam in France's Louisiana Yesterday and Today: A Documentary Saga
Assumption Parish, located in the southern part of Louisiana, has a rich history that dates back to the early 18th century. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, such as the Chitimacha, who lived off the land and had a complex culture. This changed when French settlers arrived in the 1700s and established plantations along the fertile Mississippi River, bringing with them enslaved Africans to work on the sugar cane fields.

In the 19th century, Assumption Parish played a significant role in the antebellum South's cotton and sugarcane economy. Plantations grew in size and prosperity during this time, but their fortunes quickly changed after the Civil War. The abolition of slavery, combined with natural disasters like hurricanes and floods, led to economic decline. Many plantations were broken up and sold, while others struggled to transition to free labor.

During the early 20th century, Assumption Parish experienced a resurgence with the emergence of the oil and gas industry. The discovery of oil deposits brought economic growth and development to the region. With the establishment of oil refineries and pipelines, the parish became a hub for the petroleum industry, attracting workers from all over the country.

In recent years, Assumption Parish has faced challenges posed by environmental issues. The area experienced a significant sinkhole in 2012, believed to be caused by a collapsed underground salt dome used for natural gas storage. The sinkhole caused evacuations and environmental concerns, highlighting the risks associated with the industrial activity in the region.

Today, Assumption Parish is a blend of agriculture, industry, and natural beauty. The parish continues to be an important player in the state's oil and gas sector, while also preserving its historical heritage through festivals, museums, and cultural events.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Assumption Parish, Louisiana.

  • 1699 - French explorer Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville discovers the area that would become Assumption Parish.
  • 1722 - Assumption Parish is officially established as a French colony named "Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary."
  • 1769 - Spain takes over control of Assumption Parish as a result of the Treaty of Fontainebleau.
  • 1803 - The United States acquires Assumption Parish as part of the Louisiana Purchase.
  • 1845 - Assumption Parish becomes an official parish of the State of Louisiana.
  • 1849 - The parish seat is established in Napoleonville and the first courthouse is built.
  • 1861-1865 - Assumption Parish is heavily affected by the American Civil War.
  • 1893 - Construction of Intracoastal Waterway begins, providing economic benefits to Assumption Parish.
  • 1928 - The Great Flood devastates Assumption Parish and many other areas in Louisiana.
  • 1940s-1950s - Oil and gas industry begin to flourish in Assumption Parish.
  • 1973 - Bayou Lafourche is dammed, causing ecological changes in Assumption Parish and surrounding areas.
  • 1991 - Assumption Parish celebrates its bicentennial.
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