The "Old" St. Gabriel Church

Just a few miles south of Baton Rouge, St. Gabriel was the location of the Spanish Fort and was across the Bayou Manchac from the English Fort Butte. The Spanish brought a group of Acadian here in 1767. In 1774 the Catholic church was built. It is the oldest surviving Catholic church in the Mississippi River Valley. Although remodeled in the late 19th century which accounts for it's current exterior appearance, it retains most of the original timber frame structure.

Current view

18th c. timber-frame and conjectural views. LSU

Home Place, St. Gabriel, LA ca. 1775

This building is just a short walk from the church. I have know of this house for many years, but only recently have I had the opportunity to examine it in detail. As a result of a change of ownership, and subsequent remodeling, much of the it's long hidden features have been revealed. We have know for some time that the St. Gabriel Church, practically next door, is the oldest Catholic church in the Mississippi valley, completed in 1774. This area was settled by Acadians who were brought here by the Spanish Government. Although there are similarities in construction to the church, this building is one-of-a-kind in many respects. It is the only 18th century, 2-story, timber framed structure I know of. My working hypothosis is that it was either the Presbytere for the church, or the Spanish Commandant's house.

1890

click here to see drawing of the timber frame of Home Place

2003

HOME

SERVICES

PROJECTS

MUSEUMS

INFORMATION

VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE

NOTES

BACK TO SITE INDEX