Across the South, former plantation homes are being reimagined and reinterpreted, offering a more complete telling of their complex histories. These grand estates, while architecturally significant, are rooted in a legacy of prosperity built at a profound human cost. Nottoway, was one of Louisiana’s iconic antebellum mansions, at risk of being lost to history until a man with a passion for historic preservation purchased the property. Dan Dyess and his wife Desiree had a vision of turning Nottoway into a community and economic catalyst for Iberville Parish. The planned wedding and special events venue, restaurant, bed and breakfast and historic home were to be reimagined as a place in service to the community. The challenge of repurposing and preserving these old homes is polarizing and deeply emotional, given their dark pasts.
On May 15th, 2025 Nottoway burned to the ground as it underwent extensive historic preservation and renovations. If you’d like to learn more about the planned vision and new owner, I invite you to watch the last footage ever filmed at the property:
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A Visionary Preservationist Takes the Helm
Natchitoches attorney and renowned preservationist Dan Dyess has recently acquired the 53,000-square-foot estate situated on 30 acres along the Mississippi River. Dyess, who also owns the historic Steel Magnolia House Bed and Breakfast, an 1800s home that featured prominently in the beloved 1989 movie Steel Magnolias, is passionate about restoring significant properties to their original splendor.
“I want to return Nottoway to its former glory and greatness as a Louisiana legend,” says Dyess.
Recognizing the years of deferred maintenance under previous ownership, he is investing heavily in repairs and enhancements to preserve the mansion’s structural integrity and historical authenticity.
A Five-Year Journey
Did you know that Dyess’s purchase of Nottoway from the estate of its previous owner, New Orleans real estate developer Joe Jaeger, is the culmination of a five-year effort? His vision for Nottoway is clear: to become the place “where memories begin.”
By embracing both the rich history and the potential for modern experiences, Dyess is breathing new life into this iconic landmark.
Breathing New Life into a Historic Landmark
The Architectural Marvel of Nottoway
Completed in 1859, Nottoway Plantation was designed by the esteemed architect Henry Howard, known for his contributions to Louisiana’s antebellum architecture. The Greek Revival home boasts unique features, including a curved wing with rounded windows and the iconic White Ballroom, celebrated for its ionic white decor and intricate details.
Nottoway’s original owner, John Randolph, was a prominent figure who envisioned the mansion as a symbol of prosperity and elegance. Born in Virginia’s Nottoway County in 1813, Randolph made his fortune through cotton and later sugar plantations. He commissioned Henry Howard to design Nottoway, resulting in a masterpiece that seamlessly blends Greek Revival and Italianate architectural styles. The home survived the Civil War with minimal damage, sustaining a single grapeshot from Union forces lodged in a column that remained there until 1971. Nottoway endured for 166 years under various owners and offered historic home tours and served as a special events venue until it burned to the ground on May 15, 2025.
A Personal Connection to Nottoway
Hunter Smith’s Reflections
To truly understand Nottoway’s significance, let’s hear from Hunter Smith, a local guide intimately connected with the plantation.
“I spent a lot of time here during my childhood,” Smith recalls. “My mom worked here in the ’80s and ’90s, and my dad grew up in the area. We were here for homecomings and proms. Nottoway has always been a part of our lives.”
Hunter’s personal experiences highlight the plantation’s role in the community, serving as a backdrop for cherished memories and local traditions.
Estate’s Features: Renovation Plans and Enhancements
One of the most exciting developments is the plan to reopen the Nottoway Restaurant and Bar on the mansion’s lower floor. The restaurant will introduce a new menu focused on local flavors and Southern cuisine, aiming to become a community hub for dining and socializing. Imagine savoring delicious regional dishes in an atmosphere that reflects the elegance of the antebellum era.
Enhancing Guest Accommodations
Hunter notes that the plantation comprises:
- 40 Guest Rooms:
- Modern duplex cottages with kitchenettes.
- Carriage houses with multiple rooms.
- Historic mansion rooms, including the children’s wing with nine bedrooms.
- Historic Spaces:
- Formal family living rooms adorned with period furnishings.
- Family photos and archived letters are displayed throughout the mansion.
- Future Developments:
- Plans to convert the café into a sweet shop.
- Refurbishing the Eureka Plantation House and other accommodations.
“The mansion’s children’s wing has four rooms,” Hunter explains. “There’s so much history here, from the walk-through windows designed to avoid the ‘door tax’ to the grand White Ballroom where young, eligible men and women would dance and court.”
Plans are also underway to:
- Expand amenities with new bridal salons and dressing rooms.
- Refurbish additional accommodations like the Eureka Plantation House, which has six rooms.
- Convert the café into a sweet shop, adding a delightful touch for visitors.
Expanding Event Offerings
With its oak-canopied grounds and picturesque gardens, Nottoway has long been a sought-after wedding destination. Dyess plans to host holiday events, concerts, and community gatherings to make the plantation a vibrant center for culture and entertainment. From small, intimate celebrations to significant events, Nottoway is set to become the place where memories are made.
Architectural and Cultural Significance
Unique Architectural Features
Nottoway’s architectural brilliance is truly remarkable. Some of its standout features include:
- The White Ballroom:
- A ladies’ parlor and receiving room where they entertained and danced.
- Known for its quad reels, dances with partners swapping—a charming glimpse into antebellum social life.
- Curved Facades and Rounded Windows:
- The asymmetrical balance gives the mansion its unique charm.
- Walk-through windows replaced doors to avoid the “door tax” of the time.
- Structural Innovations:
- Elevated on a brick base to protect against seasonal flooding.
- Original design included an elevated water tank and a basement (rare for Louisiana homes).
Cultural Impact
Preserving Nottoway isn’t just about maintaining a building; it’s about safeguarding a piece of Southern heritage. The plantation offers:
- Historical Tours:
- Guided explorations of the mansion’s rich history.
- Stories of the Randolph family and the architectural genius of Henry Howard.
- Educational Programs:
- Opportunities to learn about the plantation’s history and legacy.
- Reflecting on the complex stories of those who lived and worked there.
- Community Engagement:
- Hosting cultural events that celebrate Louisiana’s diverse heritage.
A New Chapter for Nottoway
The reopening of Nottoway under Dyess’s ownership marks a significant moment for Louisiana heritage tourism. By combining historical preservation with modern amenities, Dyess aims to create an immersive experience that honors the past while embracing the future.
With a focus on community engagement and cultural enrichment, the plantation is poised to become a beacon of Southern charm and hospitality.
Visitors and locals alike can look forward to:
- Historical Tours: Guided explorations of the mansion’s rich history, including stories of the Randolph family and the architectural genius of Henry Howard.
- Cultural Events: Seasonal festivities, art exhibitions, and musical performances that celebrate Louisiana’s diverse heritage.
- Culinary Delights: An emphasis on regional cuisine served in an atmosphere that reflects the elegance of the antebellum era.
Nottoway Plantation stands not just as a monument of the past but as a living, breathing part of Louisiana’s ongoing story. Under Dan Dyess’s thoughtful leadership, it is set to enchant a new generation of visitors, ensuring that its legacy endures for years to come. After all, as Dyess beautifully puts it,
“We want Nottoway to be the place where memories begin.”
FAQ’s About Nottoway Plantation
1. When was Nottoway Plantation built?
Answer: Nottoway Plantation was completed in 1859, showcasing the grandeur of Greek Revival and Italianate architectural styles.
2. Who is the new owner of Nottoway Plantation?
Answer: The new owner is Dan Dyess, a Natchitoches attorney and passionate preservationist dedicated to restoring the estate.
3. What are the plans for Nottoway’s restoration?
Answer: Plans include:
Preserving the Mansion’s Structural Integrity: Investing in repairs and addressing deferred maintenance.
Reopening the Restaurant and Bar: Introducing a new menu focused on local flavors and Southern cuisine.
Enhancing Guest Accommodations: Renovating the estate’s 40 rooms and expanding amenities.
Expanding Event Offerings: Hosting holiday events, concerts, and community gatherings.
4. How can I visit or book an event at Nottoway Plantation?
Answer: Stay tuned for updates on the official website and social media channels for bookings and event information. Nottoway is gearing up to welcome guests soon!
5. Why is Nottoway Plantation historically significant?
Answer: Nottoway is the largest antebellum mansion in the South. It’s a masterpiece by architect Henry Howard and a vital part of Louisiana’s history, reflecting both the opulence and complexities of its era.
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