Historic Washington
Washington, located just down the road from Opelousas (and easily accessible from I-49), still maintains much of the charm of an antebellum town that was settled about 1800. Before the Civil War, it was a turning point for steam vessels that traveled up the Mississippi from New Orleans. The town has a number of fine old homes, some of which are open for tours. The style of homes ranges from board and batten Acadian cottages to plantation houses. Many stores in the commercial district also retain the old shop fronts from late in the 19th century. For more information on tour hours and admission charges, stop by the Washington Museum and Tourist Center, 402 N. Main. St., in downtown Washington, LA 70589. The museum features artifacts from steamboat era. Open daily 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (337) 826-3626 or 826-3627.
You can also browse through the many antique shops located downtown. In addition, many visitors enjoy the food and atmosphere of a restaurant located in a renovated steamboat warehouse. The Catfish Festival, held the third weekend in March, includes music, food and special tours of the old homes. In addition, during the fall and spring, the local Garden Club hosts a concert series, “Music in Historic Sites.”
Filed Under: Attractions on November 12th, 2008
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