Pointe Coupee, Louisiana

INCLUDED WITH YOUR VOYAGE

Pointe Coupee, Louisiana HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR

Remember! Your vacation, your choices. Visit as many or few of the included attractions in Pointe Coupee listed below at no cost. Get a glimpse into the heritage of the town or visit the oldest home in Pointe Coupee.

LEJEUNE HOUSE

Explore the oldest home in New Roads, the Lejeune House. Nestled under the 300-year-old Samson Live Oak tree, the stunning house and grounds overlook the iconic oxbow of the mighty Mississippi known as “False River.” Constructed over 200 years ago, the LeJeune house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places; it was occupied by descendants of the original owner until 1978. Enjoy a tour upstairs to soak in the beauty of the historic architecture and expert design.

NEW ROADS VISITOR CENTER & HENRY WATSON DEMONSTRATION

At the New Roads Visitor Center, get a glimpse into the heritage of the town. As you explore, gain insight into historic and modern-day New Roads. Browse the center’s collection of antique boat motors and locally made artwork on display with a live demonstration from Henry Watson, a native of the Pointe Coupee Parish. “Watsons” are special paintings made from handcarved, century old cypress wood. Watch as Watson brings his works to life, most of which capture the landscapes and cultures of Louisiana.

ST. MARY OF FALSE RIVER

Established in 1823 the church of St. Mary served as a church of St. Francis of Pointe Coupee. In 1904, a new church of the same name, St. Mary of False River Church began construction. The instantly recognizable gothic-style structure was completed in 1907 and has undergone a variety of renovations throughout its lifetime to maintain a pristine appearance. Visit the radiant and historic church to appreciate the beauty of the building and stories of the parish’s past.

JULIEN POYDRAS HISTORICAL BUILDING

This historic building named for philanthropist Julien Poydras was constructed in 1924. In Poydras’ last will and testament, he allocated funding to multiple charitable organizations. Today, the building houses the Pointe Coupee Historical Society which organizes educational exhibits, discussions and more for the community. During your visit, the building will host local artisans showcasing their products and small businesses. Every day is different, so you may see anything from jewelry to makeup, handmade accessories, or snacks and produce. Please note: When American Queen is docked in Pointe Coupee for a full day, we will operate our St. Francisville tour program, found on page 36.

HIGHLIGHTS

ONE FAMILY: TWO PLANTATIONS

Uncover the story of one family that spans across two of Louisiana’s most notable plantations. In 1829, Martha and Daniel Turnbull built Rosedown Plantation, named for a play the couple saw on their honeymoon. Over a century later, you’ll meet one of their descendants, Mary Thompson at Catalpa Plantation. On this exclusive excursion, Mary will explain the deep ancestral ties between the two plantations.

VISIT ROSEDOWN PLANTATION

As one of the most intact documented examples of a domestic plantation complex in the South, Rosedown was established in the 1830s by Daniel and Martha Barrow Turnbull, and remained in the hands of their descendants until the 1950s. Enjoy a guided tour of the great house and gardens. See many original pieces of furnishing in the home, including a handmade tapestry by Martha Washington. Pay close attention to see if you can find the family portrait that is displayed in both Catalpa and Rosedown!

EXCLUSIVE HOME VISIT TO CATALPA PLANTATION

Meet Mary Thompson, descendant of the Turnbulls, at her present home, Catalpa Plantation. Catalpa is one of numerous late Victorian cottages found across Louisiana, significant for the beautiful gardens that surround it. Primarily a cotton plantation, Catalpa’s original house and grounds were devastated during the Civil War. In 1885, William J. Fort rebuilt Catalpa and it is this house that stands today.

END WITH A GLASS OF SHERRY

On your exclusive guided tour of Catalpa, Mary will personally guide you through her charming home. See five generations of exceptional antiques, beautiful china, porcelain, and silver, many of which are original to either Catalpa or Rosedown Plantation. To conclude the tour, Mary will treat you to a traditional farewell with a glass of Sherry on the front porch of the home.

HALF-DAY $79

LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE. RESERVE TODAY!

Pointe Coupee Premium Experience REDEMPTION AND REHABILITATION AT ANGOLA PRISON HIGHLIGHTS

THE MOST POWERFUL EXCURSION ON THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Prepare to explore the Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola, a maximumsecurity prison, focused on spiritual reform. Once one of America’s most violent prisons, the Angola of today will completely transform your previous perceptions of prisons and inmates. This truly eye-opening and enlightening experience is sure to leave an impact!

VISIT A DEATH ROW CELL BLOCK

Step off the motorcoach for an exclusive tour of Angola’s first and most famous cell block, the Red Hat Cell Block. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the penitentiary’s first cell block was home to the escape artist Charlie Frazer and was the site of eleven executions by electric chair. Hear stories of the prison’s dark past before its unbelievable transformation.

EXPLORE THE FARM LANDS

As we ride through the facility, be sure to observe the crop fields, which are prisoner maintained and are harvested to feed the inmates.

IN DEPTH CONVERSATION WITH A PRISON INMATE

Arrive at the penitentiary’s largest chapel where you will have a once-ina-lifetime opportunity to hear enlightening stories from current inmates. Learn about their journey and transformation into the inspirational and wellrounded people they are today.

ANGOLA PENITENTIARY MUSEUM

After the inmate presentation, enjoy some free time on your own in the museum or gift shop.

HALF-DAY $99

LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE. RESERVE TODAY!